Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sled Safaris & Snowmobiling
Whether you head out for an hour, or on an epic week-long adventure, being whisked
across the snow by an enthusiastic team of huskies or reindeer is an experience like no oth-
er. Lapland is the best place to do this, but it's also available further south in places like
Nurmes and Lieksa. Driving a sled takes a bit of practice, so expect sore arms and a few
tumbles at first.
Similar excursions can be made on snowmobiles (skidoos). Operators in the same loca-
tions offer these trips. You'll need a valid driving licence to use one.
Prices for both sled safaris and snowmobiling are normally based on two sharing, taking
it in turns to drive. If you want one to yourself, expect a hefty supplement.
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
Finnish slopes are generally quite low and so are well suited to beginners and families.
The best resorts are in Lapland, where the fells allow for longer runs. In central and south-
ern Finland, ski runs are much shorter, averaging about 1km in length.
The ski season in Finland runs from late November to early May and slightly longer in
the north, where it's possible to ski from October to May. Beware of the busy Christmas,
mid-February (or early March) and Easter holiday periods - they can get very crowded,
and accommodation prices go through the roof.
You can hire all skiing or snowboarding equipment at major ski resorts for about €35/
120 a day/week. A lift pass costs around €40/200 a day/week (slightly less in the shoulder
and off-peak seasons), although it is possible to pay separately for each ride. Skiing les-
sons are also available and start at around €60 for an hour's lesson for two.
The best resorts are Levi, Ruka, Pyhä-Luosto and Ylläs, but Syöte, Koli, Pallas, Ounas-
vaara and Saariselkä are also good.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is one of the simplest and most pleasant things to do outdoors in
winter in Finland. It's the ideal way to explore the beautiful, silent winter countryside of
lakes, fells, fields and forests, and is widely used by Finns for fitness and as a means of
transport.
