Mini guide to… Lapland

March 11, 2012 · , , ,
Overview: Skiing, Skidoing and sledding in sub-degree temperatures. Turns out there’s much more to Lapland than meeting Father Christmas…

Where to stay: Levitunturi hotel in Levi, just 15 minutes from Kittilä Airport

Where to eat: Pihvipirtti Steakhouse serves the best reindeer steaks (yes, you’ve got to try it – it’s free range, local, lean and very tasty). For a traditional Lappish meal, go to Taivaanvalkeat restaurant in Köngäs (15 minutes from Levi) where you will be served on long wooden platters by waitresses in typical Finnish dresses. To start, it’s gravlax and white fish, then steak, lamb and baked potatoes, and lastly, cloudberry cheesecake and liquor.



Shop: I didn’t do much shopping, but there are some nice shops in Levi; and for something more authentic, go to Sami’s Reindeer farm, go on a reindeer safari and buy some of Sami and his wife Marjut’s crafts and paintings.


Don’t miss: Skiing and snow-shoeing in Levi – the snow-covered trees are amazing apart from anything. The traditional smoke sauna at Taivaanvalkeat is also a must-do. Make sure you jump in the river for the true Finnish experience. If you want to splash out, spend a night in Golden Crown’s glass igloos, which are perfect for watching the Northern Lights.


Don’t bother: Ice karting didn’t do it for me, I find going round and round in circles repetitive (and chilly in -30) but some people love it.


When to go/How to go: Most people think to go to Lapland at or before Christmas, but January and February are great months: the ski slopes are practically empty but there’s still masses of snow. Just a warning: take lots of layers, it dropped to -38 when I was there…


By: Gabriel O’Rorke, Occupation: Journalist (www.gabrielororke.com)