Kuusamo, Northern Finland being so close to the Arctic Circle

What about travelling near the Arctic Circle during the cold season?

Pure relaxation and enjoyment, especially on short days with low temperatures

 

Reindeer sledges or sled dogs

How about a reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy winter forest, in the spirit of Father Christmas. There are even reindeer farms here that have been specially adapted for these animals. On an adventure tour, you can get very close to the animals, spend time with them and, of course, enjoy a sleigh ride. Do these cow-like animals get as excited as the sled dogs? Reindeer even have special paws that spread out in the deep snow so that the heavy animals don’t sink in the deep snow.

But even huskies, once they get going there is no stopping for the sled dogs. They follow the tracks and are familiar with the route through the snow-covered landscape near Ruka, a ski resort in north-east Finland. But not only sledging, snowboarding and cross-country skiing are also possible.

 

Ruka ski resort

One mountain, lots of floodlights, 19 kilometres of slopes and lifts, some of which are open up to 23:00 o’clock. Approximately 60 kilometres south of the Arctic Circle, this area does not belong politically to Lapland, but to the region of Northern Ostrobothnia, being cold and dark. In the depths of winter, it is dark for up to 20 hours a day. The changeover to long light nights then takes place in March onwards. Nevertheless, there is still enough time and darkness to catch the Northern Lights appearing in the night sky on a clear day. But what would a ski resort be without the most Nordic of all sports, cross-country skiing? Up to 500 kilometres of trails are groomed.

 

An alternative to cross-country skiing and winter hiking

Almost everyone has heard or read about snowshoeing. A relevant excursion gives you a completely different impression of this unique winter landscape. Having the big snowshoes under your feet, you can reach places that are otherwise difficult to approach. Kilometre after kilometre through deep snow and icy winds is a wonderful way to relax. But this is not the peak of relaxation. Floating on the River Kiveskoski, between Ruka and Kemojärvi, is what it’s all about. Wearing a thick, warm wetsuit, you lie on the water, which is only two degrees centigrade, and float along. With so much frost and cold, it’s easy to understand why saunas are the Finns’ favourite leisure activity. As this was once the most hygienic place, even children used to be born in the sauna.

There are several hotels in Ruka and Kuusamo, but staying in a cabin is much more authentic. These houses are well equipped and often have more than just one sauna.

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