In winter, the white paradise
In winter, the first thing to do is to take advantage of the aurora borealis, which are easily visible as soon as you get away from the cities. There is no need to pay, although snowshoeing tours are organized to see them. Otherwise, there are activities offered by all agencies
Dog sledding. This is a great classic of the region, a unique and original experience. From an initiation that lasts about three hours to a trek in the forest with accommodation in a cabin for several days, you will find dozens of offers. It's up to you to choose just where you want to go.
Snowshoeing. It is also very common to put on snowshoes to go hiking all over Lapland. Again, from a few hours to several days! The trails are usually well marked, but it is safer to go with a guide.
Snowmobiling. Other trails are reserved for snowmobiles, you can't miss them, they are two red crosses that cross each other on the roadside. Very popular, these machines are easily rented everywhere in Lapland, and excursions are also organized with all the equipment provided. A few hours, several days, by day, by night, in search of the Northern Lights, to discover reindeer farms, à la carte, here again everything is possible!
The road or track on ice is also something quite original, especially in Luleå in Sweden where every year, from January-February, roads are built on the sea and allow to reach the neighbouring islands. Alternatively, you can walk on ice tracks with spiked soles, slide on ice skates or a snow scooter, or pedal on an adapted mountain bike.
Skiing. Of course, skiing is practised almost everywhere in Lapland, including cross-country skiing and hiking. For downhill skiing and snowboarding, head for the mountainous areas of Abisko in Sweden or Levi in Finland.
Hole fishing. This is a very common sport, a very popular activity among the locals, which can be practised almost anywhere in the country, given the quantity of lakes that exist. Don't hesitate to ask for advice to find the most suitable spots according to the weather. But everywhere, patience is mandatory!
In summer, a sparkling nature
As soon as the snow melts and the sun starts to rise and never sets, other activities are possible
On the water, there are many opportunities for boating: crossings on the Coastal Express in Norway, around a lake, along a river, at sea... Everywhere, you can get on board a boat of varying size and let yourself be carried away to discover the landscape. Not forgetting the possibilities offered by the rivers for canoeing, canyoning, rafting..
Still on the theme of water, fishing is also to be recommended to enthusiasts, just remember to ask about licences. Still in Norway, between Tromsø and Kirkenes, it is possible to go hunting for the giant crab and especially to take part in its tasting!
On land, you can practice road biking, mountain biking, but especially hiking. From the top of the tunturis, hills with singular shapes specific to Lapland, the view is always fabulous. Boots are highly recommended. The terrain is often wet, even swampy. Otherwise, the virulence of mosquitoes between July and early August can be a real problem. If you can, choose June and September. In June, the midnight sun is breathtaking and in September, Lapland displays its flamboyant colours, it is the ruska. And don't leave without a GR map, because you can quickly lose the trail.
