Chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland: A Journey in Ivalo
For as long as I can remember, witnessing the enchanting Northern Lights has been a dream—a shimmering ribbon of magic gracing a star-studded sky above a snowy landscape. Nestled in the heart of Lapland, Ivalo offers just that and much more. Beyond the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis, this Finnish gem is packed with thrilling activities and cozy accommodations that make it well worth the trip.
Where We Stayed
Wilderness Hotel Juutua
After a day filled with adventures, the Wilderness Hotel Juutua was my sanctuary. Set against a breathtaking backdrop of towering trees and the gently flowing River Juutua, this hotel offers a warm welcome to weary travelers. Recently refurbished, it features a variety of accommodations, including cozy Wilderness Rooms, luxurious Juutua Suites with personal saunas, and spacious Arctic Rooms that boast striking views through large windows. I had the pleasure of staying in an Arctic Room, which, although lacking a personal sauna, was just a stroll away from the hotel’s hot tub and sauna outhouse—perfect for winding down after a long day of Northern Lights hunting.
Dining at the hotel’s acclaimed Aanaar restaurant was a highlight in itself. With a menu designed around the freshest local ingredients, I savored grilled white fish sourced from Lake Inari, followed by a heavenly birch leaf sorbet adorned with liquorice stones—a culinary experience that should not be missed, even if you aren’t a guest.
Northern Lights Village Saariselkä
For an entirely unique experience, the Northern Lights Village Saariselkä offers glass-roofed cabins that face the sky, allowing you to gaze up at the celestial dance from the comfort of your bed. Each cabin is designed to keep you snug and warm—even when the snow starts piling up, a simple press of a button activates the roof to melt it away.
Despite the private feel of the cabins, the resort exudes a lively atmosphere, featuring a reception area, a buffet-style restaurant, and a cozy bar with a warm fireplace. Each meal is hearty and comforting, perfect fuel after a day of exploring. Various activities can be booked through reception, ranging from fat biking and husky sledding to snowmobiling and visits to remote Aurora camps. For added relaxation, a sauna, ice pool, and hot tub are available for guests to unwind.
What We Did
The Janiskoski Rapids
Among the many highlights of my trip, visiting the Janiskoski Rapids stands out. This stunning spot, complete with dramatic scenery, provided the perfect backdrop for a picnic lunch. To reach our campsite, we crossed a swaying suspension bridge above the bubbling Juutua River. Once on the other side, our cheerful guides stoked the fire and treated us to a warming salmon and potato soup, topped off with cookies and hot chocolate—an idyllic way to enjoy the great outdoors.
Aurora Camps
A visit to two Aurora Camps was an unforgettable experience. At the first camp, after a glimpse of the Northern Lights, I was surrounded by a starry sky that seemed to stretch infinitely. While others warmed themselves inside by the campfire with roasted marshmallows and Finnish cinnamon buns, I chose to stay outside for a while, captivated by the constellations twinkling above. The second camp, nestled along the stunning Paatsjoki River near the Russian border, offered more of the same cozy camaraderie and delightful refreshments.
Sami Siida Museum
For those yearning to blend cultural exploration with winter wonder, the Sami Siida Museum in Inari is a fascinating stop. Here, one can delve into the rich traditions of the Sámi people through various indoor exhibits and even step outside to see how they lived in traditional huts.
Aurora Hunting by Fat Bike
For a unique twist, Aurora hunting by fat bike is an exhilarating way to experience the Northern Lights. Navigating the snowy trails with only headlamps to light the way, the three-hour adventure concluded with refreshing stops before returning to the comfort of the resort.
How to Get There
Excitingly, British Airways will soon launch the only direct service from London to Ivalo on December 3, 2024. This means no more navigating layovers or racing through connecting flights at Helsinki. For more details or to book, visit British Airways.
Where to Book
Our journey was organized through The Aurora Zone, which offers an enticing eight-day package titled Inari and Saariselkä – An Exclusive Bucket List Northern Lights Holiday, starting from £3,635 per person, including return flights, transfers, activities, and accommodation. More information can be found at The Aurora Zone.
Lapland’s allure, with its mesmerizing Northern Lights and welcoming surroundings, warmly invites exploration. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of culture, Ivalo offers it all wrapped in winter’s magical embrace.