Maurizio Pittau
Events and Travels
Events and Travels
Posted By Maurizio Pittau —

Finnish Lapland Winter Treks Trip

Embark on an unforgettable trekking adventure in the heart of Finnish Lapland this winter. This 5-day itinerary is designed for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore breathtaking landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and pristine nature trails. Each day includes a mix of hiking, cultural experiences, and relaxation at an Arctic spa, followed by Northern Lights Hunting in the evening.

Day 1: Arrival in Rovaniemi (26/02/2025)

  • Flight: Depart from Dublin (DUB) at 15:25. Arrive in Rovaniemi (RVN) at 20:50.
  • Transfer to accommodation (3 nights Hostel Cafe Koti and 1 night Arctic SnowHotel and Glass Igloos).
  • Northern Lights Hunting: Guided tour to remote locations with the best visibility.

Day 2: Korouoma Canyon & Frozen Waterfalls Tour with BBQ (27/02/2025)

  • Location: Korouoma Canyon, 120 km southeast of Rovaniemi.
  • Transport: Private transfer (approx. 1.5-hour drive each way).
  • Hike Details:
    • Distance: 14 km (moderate difficulty)
    • Route: A scenic trail through the canyon leading to spectacular frozen waterfalls.
    • Highlights: Towering ice formations, serene winter landscapes, and a chance to spot wildlife.
    • Includes: Guiding, winter overall, hot drinks, barbeque (grilled sausages) and snacks.
  • Lunch: Traditional BBQ prepared over an open fire at a scenic resting area.
  • Afternoon: Continue exploring the canyon’s breathtaking frozen formations.
  • Evening: Return to Rovaniemi and unwind at an Arctic Spa & Hot Pools Experience.
  • Northern Lights Hunting: Another opportunity to witness the auroras in different locations.

Day 3: Ounasvaara Winter Hiking Trail (28/02/2025)

  • Location: Ounasvaara Hill, just outside Rovaniemi.
  • Transport: Short taxi ride from the city centre.
  • Hike Details:
    • Distance: 11 km (easy-moderate difficulty)
    • Route: Loop trail from Ounasvaara Ski Resort, winding through snowy forests and scenic viewpoints.
    • Highlights: Panoramic views over the Arctic wilderness, potential wildlife sightings.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint.
  • Afternoon: Free time to explore Rovaniemi’s cultural sites, such as the Arktikum Science Museum and the Santa Claus Village.
  • Evening: Arctic Spa & Hot Pools Experience.
  • Northern Lights Hunting: Venture out for another night of aurora chasing.

Day 4: Arctic Wilderness Adventure (Reindeer & Husky Rides + Ice Fishing) (01/03/2025)

  • Location: Various Arctic wilderness locations around Rovaniemi.
  • Transport: Organized transfers with guided tours.
  • Morning:
    • Visit a traditional reindeer farm and enjoy a reindeer sledging ride.
    • Learn about the indigenous Sámi culture and their centuries-old traditions.
  • Midday:
    • Husky sledging adventure through the snowy forest trails.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a hot meal at a wilderness lodge.
  • Afternoon:
    • Ice fishing experience on a frozen lake with a local guide.
  • Evening: Arctic Spa & Hot Pools Experience.
  • Northern Lights Hunting: One last chance to capture the dancing auroras.

Day 5: Vaattunkivaara Nature Trail (02/03/2025)

  • Morning:
    • Location: Vaattunkivaara Nature Trail, Arctic Circle Hiking Area, 25 km from Rovaniemi.
    • Transport: Private transfer (30-minute drive).
    • Hike Details:
      • Distance: 4.5 km (moderate difficulty)
      • Route: Through dense Arctic forests, crossing frozen rivers and scenic landscapes.
      • Highlights: Pristine winter wilderness, occasional reindeer sightings, and Arctic silence.
    • Lunch: Outdoor picnic in a scenic location.
  • Afternoon:
    • Free
  • Evening:
    • Transfer to Rovaniemi Airport.
    • Flight: Depart at 20:45. Arrive in Dublin at 22:25.

Essential Gear & Equipment Checklist

To ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience, pack the following:

  • Clothing: Thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers, insulated and waterproof jacket and pants, wool socks, gloves, hat, and balaclava.
  • Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots with good grip, gaiters, and thermal insoles.
  • Accessories: Headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen (for reflection from snow), trekking poles.
  • Other essentials: Day backpack (20-30L), insulated water bottle, snacks (energy bars, nuts), hand warmers, camera.

Other Info

  • Coordinators: Maurizio Pittau & Saana Mäkinen
  • Max 8 Partecipants
  • Physical rating: This itinerary involves hiking or other activities requiring a lot of physical effort. The fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy it, as some activities will be challenging. Be prepared for some long transfers and early wake-up calls!
  • Please note: Weather conditions may impact the hike’s difficulty level, sometimes making it more challenging. Lapland can be extremely cold at this time of year. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions. 
  • The Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) are a natural display of coloured lights in the night sky of the northern hemisphere. While Northern Light displays can never be guaranteed, as they are a natural phenomenon, you have a higher chance of seeing them in locations at high latitudes, such as Northern Finland. During your visit, keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and sufficient solar activity.
  • Arrival and departure. This trip will begin and end in Dublin. Aim to arrive on the first day by 9 p.m.; on the last day, we will arrive around 10:30 p.m.
  • More info: mp@mauriziopittau.it