Finland winter activity holidays

Finland could have been made for winter activities. Wonderful wilderness areas are bowed by snow beside frozen lake sides, while saunas sizzle with the sound of water on hot rocks and the chuckle of Glögi guzzling guests. Spending the night in a remote log cabin or traditional wooden kota will leave you glowing, no matter what the temperature is outside, and there’s nothing like the howl of a husky to really make neck hairs stand to attention as you peer through windows in search of stars.

Although the Aurora Borealis have been known to turn up all over Finland, you're definitely better off heading north to get ringside seats for the greatest natural show on earth. The closer you get to the Arctic Circle, within Finland's northernmost region, Lapland, the more chance you'll have of seeing some colour with Pallas-Yllästunturi and Pyhä-Luosto National Parks, for example, exhibiting minimal artificial light to maximum affect. These sorts of locations, where the Northern Lights are prevalent, also have plenty of Aurora-friendly accommodation too, with wooden yurts and hotel rooms often coming complete with outstanding Arctic views. Match Northern Lights, lovely lodgings and a choice of outdoor activities and you’ve got the makings of an absolutely unforgettable winter experience.

Don't think that 15 feet of pure white snow is going to stop Finns getting out and about on two feet; far from it. Strapping on a pair of cross country skis or snow shoes is just what Finns do to get around and there's nowhere better than Hossa National Park, in northeastern Finland, to do just that. Legs will ache after a first day of shuffling for over 17km; however, there's nothing a sauna won't put right, and as you ease into a week of exploring over frozen pine heaths and snow covered ridges, close to Russia, you'll be surprised just how easy it is for your body, and your mind, to adapt.

Huge, chunky bike tyres, made for maximum grip, have turned cycling in Finland into a year round activity with pre-prepared tracks around frozen lakes and through old growth forests allowing for a surreal, near silent, experience within white coated wilderness areas such as Oulanka National Park. Fat biking is a brilliant winter activity to enjoy as part of a small group with bike rental, local tour leaders and nights spent in cosy cabins adding to an active itinerary that will have you putting your pedals through their paces by day whilst easing any aches in the sauna and by the fire, at night.

Winter multi activity holidays in Finland are a fun way to get some exercise in some of the country's most pristine and remote environments with small group and tailor made tour options providing an excellent excuse to take off for a week, or more, and lose yourself on the other side of the wardrobe.