LAPLAND
The northern most part of Finland, Lapland, is the magical arctic region full of contrasts. In fact, contrasts are a key factor in the allure of Lapland where 24-hour sunlight in the summer replaces the dark winter days filled with Northern Lights.
Every season in Finnish Lapland is uniquely different from each other. The inhabitants of the region say that Lapland actually has 8 seasons instead of 4. In the wintertime, Lapland is as close as reality gets to those who dream of a winter wonderland. Spring brings along light that follows the long season of ‘kaamos’ (arctic night in Finnish). During the spring time, the snow covered hills and fells offer exciting experiences for all winter outdoors enthusiasts from skiiers to snowshoe walkers.
Summer in Lapland is a season like no other – there are endless white nights and peaceful arctic nature as far as the eye can see. Summer’s glow is followed by the majestic season of fall when Lapland gets its truly iconic ‘ruska’ colors. This is the best season to go for a hike in one of Lapland’s many national parks. It is meditation and mindfullness all wrapped in one in one of the world’s most unique and breath-taking sceneries. And don’t forget the best and purest air and water this planet has to offer.
After you have recharged in nature, Lapland also offers other interesting places to visit. Meet Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, try one (or two!) of Lapland’s great restaurants, visit a reindeer or a husky farm, venture out to a quirky festival or go look for gold.
Finnish Lapland is all this and more.
Explore Lapland
Here’s a look the most interesting places to visit in the region:
LAPLAND BY HENRI
“Many know Lapland and its snowy landscapes as the home of reindeer, Santa Claus and the Northern Lights. That’s all fine and true, but to me, it’s so much more; it’s a state of mind.
Hiking on the rolling fells during autumn leaf colour, breathing the world’s cleanest air, you feel like nature is talking to you. Looking at the vast wilderness stretching to infinity around you, listening to the whispers of a fresh autumn breeze sets your priorities straight.
I’m from Lapland, but I spent a decade living in London and Helsinki when I was young and craved excitement. I wouldn’t trade those years for anything, but a yearning slowly built up inside me. I needed to get away from the man-made environment, to something that was here before us and will be here after we’re gone.
Nature is present everywhere in Lapland. Even in the regional capital Rovaniemi, where I live, you can access the woods in five minutes from your doorstep. The forest works wonders on your soul.
The changing seasons ensure it never gets dull: mountain bikes and hiking boots get replaced with snowboards and snowshoes when winter comes. In spring, when the snow melts away and the waters are free of ice, I grab my skateboard and take my dog for a good run and swim in endless daylight.
Lapland is a sweet holiday destination. But experiencing all the seasons unlocks a whole new world.
Wait – make that new worlds.”
-Henri
Getting there
Loving Lapland and can’t wait to get there?
Tours and routes
Here are tour suggestions in Lapland
Be inspired
Articles about Lapland
Get to know the region
Areas in Lapland
You might also enjoy these
There are around 75 ski resorts in Finland. That’s quite a high number for a country that has no mountains. Instead of mountains, there are a great deal of hills, which are covered with snow for about 200 days a year.
Read More about 10 'Must Experience' Ski Resorts in FinlandFar up North, there is a place simply so magical that it just makes you fall in love. With it's pastel skies, snow covered trees, cozy hideouts and adorable furry friends Finnish Lapland invites you to explore the more remote “Do Not Disturb” location.
Read More about Lapland for LoversWe listed the most beautiful Aurora Shots by Finnish photographers and asked them to tell the stories behind the mesmerising photos.
Read More about 8 Most Beautiful Northern Lights Shots from FinlandLapland is the land of myths and dreams where the white months of summer meet the dark aurora nights of winter. Listen to the sounds of Lapland and relax.
Read More about Lapland – Hear the Call of the WildFinnish Lapland - its barren, beautiful natural landscape has an irresistible charm.
Read More about Five days hiking in LaplandFinnish Lapland is the land of myths, legends and dreams. Many are centered on Lapland’s gold fields and the world’s purest gold - the one found in and around the Lemmenjoki and Ivalojoki rivers.
Read More about The Legendary Gold Fields of Lapland
