top of page
Arctic Light Hotel Experience - Northernlights Rovaniemi.jpg

Enchanting Aurora Escape

Explore the Arctic in Style

Independent holiday with guided private & group experiences

Image: Arctic Light Hotel

Dates

On request in

January or March

Duration

8 days/7 nights

Suitable

For discerning travellers wanting to experience the beauty of the Arctic

Price

From AUD 11,685 per person

This holiday is perfect for those who appreciate staying in distinctive, character-filled properties that combine premium amenities with a sense of place. The journey begins in Rovaniemi, the vibrant Arctic capital of Lapland, and takes you to the small Sámi village of Inari, located 265 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle.

​

You will enjoy exceptional accommodations, each offering a unique atmosphere - from elegant boutique hotels to glass igloos with panoramic views of the Northern Lights. With an emphasis on personalised service and comfort, this experience caters to those who value exclusivity, unwinding, and immersion in the Arctic way of life.

​

Perfect for culinary enthusiasts, this escape highlights the finest local delicacies, crafted from fresh, regional ingredients by talented chefs. In addition to the gastronomic experience, the holiday offers a blend of Arctic adventures such as husky and reindeer sledding, snowmobiling, and private excursions. These include cultural explorations that provide deeper insights into Arctic life, its rich heritage, and the challenges of living in such a remote environment. The opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis during your travels makes this escape truly unforgettable.​​​​

Tour Highlights

  • Enjoy multiple winter activities including snowmobiling, husky sleigh ride & meeting the reindeer

  • Stay in unique boutique accommodation

  • Spend three nights sleeping under the stars - and hopefully under the Auroras - in a Glass Igloo

  • Enjoy delicious Arctic Cuisine prepared from local produce 

  • Learn about life in the Arctic & the indigenous Sámi culture on private guided tours

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 :  Welcome to the Arctic Circle!

Your driver will be ready to greet you at Rovaniemi Airport (or Railway Station) and transfer you to the charming Arctic Light Boutique Hotel, where you'll settle in for the next two nights.

​

The Arctic Light Hotel is a multi-award-winning boutique hotel in the heart of Rovaniemi, just steps from the city's main attractions, shopping, and cultural spots. Housed in a converted 1950s building, once Rovaniemi’s City Hall, this family-owned hotel blends Lappish heritage with contemporary design, creating a stylish urban Arctic hideaway.

 

The Arctic Restaurant at the hotel offers a refined dining experience that celebrates the rich flavours of northern nature. The menu is crafted using high-quality local ingredients, all prepared with ultimate care. The focus is on sustainability, with ingredients sourced from trusted local providers to ensure freshness and authenticity.

​

As a proud WWF (World Wildlife Fund) partner, Arctic Light Hotel also raises awareness about climate change and its impact on polar bears - magnificent animals whose survival is threatened by global warming. You'll find polar bear imagery throughout the hotel, reflecting its commitment to this cause. Arctic Light Hotel has also been granted the Sustainable Travel Finland certificate.

​​

Enjoy a delicious dinner at the the hotel restaurant prior to retreating your comfortable room for the night.

​

Day 2: Private tour of Rovaniemi

After a relaxed breakfast, your guide will greet you in the hotel lobby and take you on a private tour of Rovaniemi.

​

As the capital of Lapland and the Official Hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi boasts a unique history and charming cityscape. Nearly obliterated during World War II, the city was meticulously redesigned by the renowned Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. He envisioned the city in the shape of a reindeer's head, with roads forming the antlers and the local sports stadium as the reindeer's eye.

 

Your guide will lead you on a walking tour to explore Aalto’s architectural legacy. Though his main works, including the City Library, Town Hall, and Lappia Hall, are currently closed for renovation, you will still have the opportunity to admire these landmarks from the outside. These buildings, arranged around a spacious plaza, showcase Aalto's distinct design principles. The library's lending section is adorned with a striking set of upper windows, Lappia Hall features majestic arched roofs over its exhibition space, and the Town Hall is distinguished by its high council tower, shaped like a shard of crystal. 

​

Your tour continues with a visit to the Arktikum Science Centre and Museum, where your guide will lead you through the main exhibitions. Here, you’ll delve into fascinating insights about the Arctic region, its natural phenomena, and the rich cultural history of the Sámi people. The museum offers an immersive experience, shedding light on life in the Arctic and the challenges faced by its ecosystems.

 

​After your museum visit, you’ll head to the Santa Claus Village for lunch, where the festive charm of Christmas is present all year round. The village is home for delightful souvenir shops and cosy cafés serving local delicacies. You could also  meet Santa Claus himself in his office - just be prepared to join others waiting for their chance to share a moment with the jolly man. Afterwards, you'll be transferred back to your hotel.

​

Enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant.

​

Day 3: Travel to Aurora Queen Resort & Evening Reindeer Sleigh Ride

After a leisurely breakfast, it's time to check out of your Arctic urban oasis and embark on a scenic 250 km journey north to your next destination

​

Aurora Queen is a small family-owned resort with 17 glass igloos, nestled in the snowy wilderness of northern Finland. Its glass-ceiling aurora-view igloos offer a truly magical stay, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the stunning beauty and tranquility of the surrounding nature. Committed to sustainability, the resort uses geothermal heating and solid wood construction, reflecting its respect for the environment.

 

Here, you can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience surrounded by the peaceful Arctic nature - completely free from noise and light pollution, yet with all the comforts of a modern boutique resort. The on-site AQ Restaurant offers menus inspired by Finnish culinary traditions, using locally sourced, pure ingredients to create a memorable dining experience.

​

After dinner, experience the magic of traditional Lapland with a visit to an authentic reindeer farm, where you'll meet a true reindeer herder and hear captivating stories about reindeer herding.  Journey through the magical nighttime Arctic forest on a sleigh pulled by these gentle animals. Reindeer are naturally calm, shy, and undeniably adorable, making this encounter even more special.​ This unique experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with these iconic creatures of the north, leaving you with lasting memories.​

Day 4: Husky Experience

Enjoy breakfast at the resort restaurant.

 

Today you'll embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Arctic Huskies on a thrilling Husky Safari! Let the experienced guides and eager huskies lead you through the pristine Lappish wilderness. As you glide across the snow, you'll relish the silence of the Arctic while mushing your very own dog team. The sleigh, shared by two people, allows one to drive while the other sits comfortably, and you can switch roles halfway through the journey.

​

The 2-hour safari covers a 10 km track, with a driving time of approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll be in control of the husky sled, guided by an expert throughout the adventure, making it an exhilarating and immersive experience.

​

After a refreshing activity in the crisp outdoors, lunch at the resort restaurant will be even more tastier. Afterwards, retreat to your igloo for some well-deserved relaxation.​

​

Enjoy dinner at the resort restaurant.

​

Day 5:  Snowmobile Safari

After breakfast, it's time to explore the surrounding outdoors, this time on a snowmobile.

​

This guided snowmobile tour takes you along groomed trails, offering breathtaking views of fells and forests. Ideal for couples wanting to share a snowmobile or solo riders seeking a scenic adventure, the smooth trails make this experience accessible for all skill levels. Snowmobiling is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore the local winter landscape, giving you access to remote areas and rugged tundra that become available in the snow-covered season. It's a perfect blend of adventure and stunning Arctic scenery.

​

Savour a leisurely lunch at the resort's restaurant before retreating to your cosy igloo for some personal time -whether it’s diving into a good book or indulging in a peaceful afternoon nap. Here, there's no rush. 

​

Enjoy another delightful dinner at the resort restaurant.

​

Day 6:  Indigenous Sámi Culture & Culinary Delights

After breakfast, it's time to say your goodbyes to your hosts. Your driver will pick you up and transfer you to the village of Inari (about 1 hr drive).

​

Inari is the cultural heart of Finnish Sámi heritage, offering an authentic and immersive glimpse into the rich traditions of the indigenous Sámi people. The village is home to the renowned Siida Museum, where a private guided tour will provide deeper insight into the Sámi way of life, their profound connection with nature, and their ongoing efforts to preserve their cultural heritage. After your tour, enjoy some free time to explore the museum's well-curated souvenir shop, featuring beautiful and meaningful items to take home. The museum also has a cosy café, where you can enjoy a buffet lunch or savour a coffee alongside a selection of sweet or savoury treats (to be paid locally). 

​

Following this enriching cultural experience, you'll be transferred to Jávri Lodge, where the next chapter of your Arctic adventure awaits (about 1 hr drive).

​​

Jávri is a boutique hotel with 13 beautiful rooms, owned and operated by a local family. Designed to feel like a 'dream home away from home', the lodge features a cosy living room with a welcoming fireplace, and a well-stocked wine cellar. Every evening, the fire is lit for guests to relax by, whether curling up with a book or taking in the breathtaking natural scenery outside. Tea, coffee, and an 'honesty' bar are available at all times.

​

Steeped in history, Jávri dates back to the 1970s and was once the official winter home of Finland’s former President Urho Kekkonen. Since 2016, it has been transformed into a boutique hotel, blending modern architecture with traditional design, all while embracing ecological and sustainable practices. Jávri proudly holds the Sustainable Travel Finland label and Green Key certification for its commitment to responsible tourism.

​

At Jávri Lodge, the culinary team delivers a creative, ever-changing menu that reflects the seasons and the freshest local ingredients. Sourced from trusted gatherers, fishermen, reindeer herders, and hunters, organic produce is key to the dining experience. King crab comes from Northern Norway, wild fish from nearby lakes, and  reindeer and game products are provided by a local family business. Jávri restaurant blends casual elegance with refined sophistication, offering a truly elevated dining experience.

​

This evening, indulge in a five- to seven-course culinary journey that highlights the finest local ingredients, expertly paired with exquisite wines from boutique European vineyards (wines are charged per consumption and settled locally). ​

​

Day 7:  Explore Wilderness & Relax in the Sauna

Enjoy leisurely breakfast at the Lodge.

​

With Finland’s second-largest national park right at your doorstep, Jávri provides the ultimate winter playground. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to choose two activities from a range of 2-hour experiences such as snowmobiling, ice fishing (availability varies), snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing through the snowy forest. Guests venture out in small, intimate groups, ensuring a warm and friendly atmosphere.

 

Between activities, return to the lodge for a warming lunch before heading back out to explore the Arctic wilderness.

​

As the temperature drops, there’s no better way to end your day of activities than by returning to the cosy warmth of the lodge and indulging in a rejuvenating wellness experience. Whether you choose to float gently or swim a few laps in the pool, or let the soothing heat of the sauna envelop your body and soul, it’s the perfect way to unwind. Or those looking to indulge in a little extra pampering, treat yourself to a private massage designed to melt away tension and leave you deeply relaxed. If you'd like us to arrange this for you, just let us know -additional fees apply.

​

Tonight enjoy another delightful dining experience, with dishes reflecting the season's best and limited only by the chef's creativity and vision.

​

If the Northern Lights forecast is promising, feel free to ask the staff about arranging a late-night Aurora tour, subject to availability. Alternatively, if you'd prefer not to leave it to chance, we can include a dedicated Northern Lights Tour in your travel package. Please note that Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed.

​

Day 8:  Farewell, Lapland!

After breakfast, it's time to say your goodbyes as your transfer to Ivalo Airport is waiting - unless you want to stay longer? That can be arranged! Or let us know if you would like us to design you an extension for your holiday! Maybe a few days in Helsinki and Tallinn?

​

​

Images by Visit Rovaniemi, Arctic Light Hotel, Aurora Queen Resort & Jávri Lodge.

Prices

Tour price when 2 adults sharing a Northern Lights Hut

AUD 11,685 per person​

​

Single supplement (7 nights) AUD 5475

​​​​​​​

Your accommodation included in the tour price:

 

Magic Room at Arctic Light Hotel:

The interior design of the Magic Room is inspired by the beauty of Lappish nature. With its warm wooden floors and thoughtfully crafted design, this inviting space offers a perfect blend of comfort and style. Your room features a luxurious queen-size bed (160 cm wide), ensuring a restful night's sleep. All Magic Rooms are air-conditioned and come with en-suite bathrooms, complete with either a soothing rain shower or a relaxing bathtub. Indulge in complimentary guest amenities, including plush bathrobes and slippers. With an average size of 20m², the Magic Room is ideal for up to two guests. Some rooms are conveniently located at street level for easy access.

​

Please, let us know if you would like to upgrade to a larger room with a king-size bed.

​

Premium Glass Igloo at Aurora Queen Resort:

Your luxurious glass igloo features panoramic windows and a glass ceiling that offer an unparalleled, immersive view of the surrounding nature and the magical northern lights - all from the comfort of your bed. Designed to maximise your stargazing experience, every detail of the igloo has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure your ultimate comfort and indulgence. Each igloo is fitted with premium materials throughout, ensuring a flawless stay. You'll enjoy modern amenities like an en-suite bathroom with a refreshing rain shower, underfloor heating, cosy slippers, and a Nespresso coffee machine. The spacious king-size bed (180 cm x 200 cm) guarantees a restful night under the Arctic sky. Igloo size 27m².

Light cleaning is provided every second day, which includes making the bed, refreshing towels, and emptying the trash. Please note that this service does not include a change of bed linens. 

​

Cosy Double at Jávri Lodge:

These charming and stylish Cosy Doubles are located on the ground floor of the lodge, offering a serene retreat with original log walls, calming neutral tones, and elegant Scandinavian furnishings. Each room features a luxuriously comfortable king-size bed, a striking sheepskin-covered armchair, chic side tables, and a private bathroom, all designed with both comfort and sophistication in mind.

Room size 21m².

​

Please let us know if you would like to upgrade to a larger room.

 

What's included

  • 2 nights' accommodation in Magic Double Room with a Queen bed at Arctic Light Hotel

  • 3 nights' accommodation in a Premium Glass Igloo with a King bed at Aurora Queen Resort

  • 2 nights' accommodation in a Cosy Double Room with a King bed at Jávri Lodge

  • Daily breakfast

  • 7 x dinner, 4 x lunch

  • Private transport as follows:

    • from Rovaniemi airport/railway station to hotel​

    • from Arktikum to Santa Claus Village and back to hotel in Rovaniemi

    • from Arctic Light Hotel to Aurora Queen Resort

    • from Aurora Queen Resort via Inari Village  to Jávri Lodge

    • from Jávri Lodge to Ivalo airport

  • Complimentary private sauna (30 mins) at Arctic Light Hotel (subject to availability)

  • Complimentary private sauna session (1h) at Jávri Lodge (subject to availability)

  • Winter outdoor clothing during activities at Aurora Queen resort & during entire stay at Jávri Lodge

  • Private tour in Rovaniemi (3 hrs) including entrance fee to Arktikum Science Centre & Museum

  • Husky Experience (2 hrs)

  • Evening Reindeer Experience (3 hrs) 

  • Snowmobile Tour (2 hrs) 

  • Snowshoe Experience (2 hrs) & Snowmobile Experience (2 hrs) at Jávri Lodge

  • Private guided tour at Siida Museum including entrance fees

  • All taxes & fees

  • A donation on your behalf for protection of the endangered Arctic Fox  - read more >

Your Health & Activities

  • Activities like snowmobile and husky safaris can be physically demanding and the participants may be exposed to different kinds of physical strain. If you suffer from any illnesses or disabilities (for instance heart disease, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, back or hip problems) they can affect your ability to take part in these activities.

  • The speed of the dog team might be a surprise and mushing (driving) the team requires concentration. Taking part in a husky safari requires good physical condition (a person should be able to run short distances with ease). Driving a dog team is not suitable for persons with missing limbs, suffering back, hip, knee, or any leg problems. You have to be 18 years old to mush a dog team.

  • A person suffering any illnesses or disabilities, above mentioned or heart disease, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, recent surgical operation, should be aware that she/he is participating at her/his own risk. Please consult your doctor prior to booking or participating in these activities.

  • Activities, especially snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobile, husky and reindeer excursions can be physically demanding and participants may be exposed to different kinds of physical strain, vibration or carbon monoxide (in case of snowmobiling). Therefore, in order to avoid any complications and to guarantee the safety of all participants, we do not recommend husky, reindeer and snowmobile programmes to pregnant women.

  • Make sure your comprehensive travel insurance covers winter activities including husky sled and snowmobile tours and any other activities you want to participate in.

  • Please consult your doctor about having a sauna bath, particularly if you suffer from any heart issues or high blood pressure.

Weather

During the winter, temperature can vary between -10ËšC and -25ËšC and on the coldest days the temperature may drop all the way to -40 ËšC.

Please note that weather conditions vary from year to year and it is advisable to check the weather conditions before your arrival. You can check the weather on weather service sites such as  http://www.yr.no/.

Daylight

Check daylight hours for this region via this link.

​

Polar Night, or Kaamos in Finnish, is the period in the polar regions when the sun stays below the horizon, but this doesn’t mean it’s completely dark all day. While the sun never fully rises, there are a few hours of soft, atmospheric light around noon, and the snow-covered landscape reflects this light, making it feel much brighter than expected.

​

During Polar Night, the sky comes alive with stunning colors, as sunlight interacts with the upper atmosphere to create hues reminiscent of a sunset. The midday brings unique blue tones, offering a truly magical and photogenic experience.

Sustainable Travel Finland

Sustainable Travel Finland is a sustainable tourism program developed by Visit Finland. Companies that have completed the program and meet the demanding criteria are recognised with the Sustainable Travel Finland label. The label takes into account the economic, ecological, social and cultural sustainability of tourism companies and destinations.

What's not included

  • Meals other than described

  • Alcoholic beverages during meals unless mentioned

  • Tips or any other items of personal nature

  • Flights

  • Travel Insurance 

Please note

  • This holiday package is for adults only 

  • Your daily itinerary is subject to change

  • All snowmobile safaris come with a self-liability policy for any accidents or damages to the vehicle. The exact amount of liability will be confirmed when you place your booking.

  • The driver of the snowmobile must be at least 18 years of age with a driver’s license valid in Finland

Ask us about

  • Creating a tailor-made pre and/or post tours

  • Adding extra activities to your travel package, eg. ice fishing, longer snowmobile tours 

  • A shorter holiday or extending your stay at one of the locations

  • Arrangements for special celebrations or milestones during your stay

Booking Conditions

  • ​SAFETY & TRAVEL INSURANCE  

All outdoor activities carry an element of risk and a comprehensive travel insurance covering winter activities is strongly recommended for this holiday. You warrant that the information you provide regarding your health & fitness is accurate and there are no other medical issues (both physical/mental) that may impact your ability to participate in this holiday without the need for special assistance.

  • WEATHER 

If the organisers do not deem one of the activities safe, they reserve the right to change the order of the activities or the content of the program if necessary due to the weather. In extreme conditions they might have to reschedule or cancel.

  • ALTERATIONS BY ORGANISER

Sometimes the organiser has to make changes, usually because of circumstances out of their control. If this happens, they reserve the right at any time to substitute accommodation or activities. If this means extra cost to you, we’ll let you know.

  • ​ACCEPTANCE OF RISK

You acknowledge that travel involves personal risks which may be greater than those present in your everyday life. This could be as a result of the adventurous nature of your trip or the visiting of destinations which present geographical risks and dangers.

​

Our full terms & conditions (link).

​

Payment & cancellations

​Due to the small size of these exclusive properties and high demand, the following conditions apply:

  • 55% deposit is required within 7 days to secure your holiday

  • Full payment is required 70 days prior to departure

  • Cancellations:

    • More than 92 days prior to departure - loss of 25% of total cost

    • Between 91 days and 70 days prior to departure – loss of 55 % of total cost

    • Less than 69 days prior to departure - loss of 100% of total cost

  • Please arrange a comprehensive travel insurance which covers winter activities and any cancellation costs, should you not be able to travel

  • These conditions are subject to change and will be confirmed when you place a booking

  • Our full terms & conditions can be found here (link)

Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are a mesmerising yet unpredictable natural phenomenon. While evening tours are designed to give you the best chance to witness the Aurora, we cannot guarantee its appearance. However, the nighttime experience itself is unforgettable, and if the Aurora graces the sky, it will make the moment even more magical.

 

Researchers have discovered that auroral activity follows an 11-year cycle, with peaks during what's known as the Solar Maximum. The next peak is expected around 2025-26, and the lead-up to this period offers an excellent opportunity for Aurora sightings. This year has already seen some spectacular displays, both in the North and even in the Southern Hemisphere (Aurora Australis).

bottom of page