Explore Lapland's winter wilderness on trekking skis, guided to a cottage area about 45 minutes from Rovaniemi. You'll glide across snow-covered forest and a frozen lake, with the route adapted to your group's level.
You'll then settle into a traditional wooden cottage — a Finnish "mökki" — with no running water or electricity, warmed by a fireplace and furnished with comfortable beds.
A wilderness sauna by the lake is included, with a wooden pontoon leading to the frozen water for anyone brave enough for a dip. Towels, soap, birch tar oil, and other sauna essentials are provided (bring a swimsuit if you'd like one — going without is also the traditional Finnish way). The experience is always private.
As evening falls, your guide prepares a hearty dinner around the open fire — a Finnish soup with warm drinks and sweet pastries for dessert — then leaves you warm winter sleeping bags and everything you need for a cozy, private night in the wilderness.
The next morning, after breakfast in the cabin, your guide returns to bring you back to Rovaniemi.
Ski equipment: You'll trek on Altai skis — traditional Lappish backcountry skis with partial skins that let you glide downhill and grip uphill, fitted to standard winter hiking boots. A detailed equipment list is sent to you before the trip, and it's recommended to bring your own well-fitted winter hiking boots.
