Overview
What's included?
- Flights: return flights from London to Kittilä ( either direct or via Helsinki depending on the departure date). Flight routes are subject to change
- Transfers: return airport transfers
- Accommodation: 7 night's accommodation in en-suite hotel rooms
- Meals: half board
- Activities: choose from our extensive range of activities (individually priced - see 'Personalise' section of the holiday page for details of all options)
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
- Fully qualified wilderness guides and instructors during activities
- Services of our representative
Harriniva is a delightful winter destination nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, and this holiday allows you to experience it all according to your own design. Our tailored week allows you to create your own itinerary from a selection of traditional and modern activities at a pace which suits you.
However energetic or relaxed you decide to make your Harriniva winter holiday, there are several activities which simply cannot be missed. Snowmobiles are the most common way to travel in these parts and travelling on one is a real thrill. The same can be said of journeying into the outdoors, controlling a lively pack of huskies as they pull you along. A reindeer safari is also an unmissable event and we can highly recommend that you take advantage of the opportunity during your stay.
There are snowshoe activities and cross-country skiing lessons to include alongside more relaxing options such as a spa afternoon.
Things don't stop during the hours of darkness and at night, you can hunt for the Northern Lights in a variety of ways. We can arrange for Aurora snowmobiling, snowshoe hikes or overnight husky safaris to remote wilderness destinations.
Read moreAs for specifically local delights, why not spend the night in a snow igloo at Torassieppi Winter Village or in a spectacular Aurora Dome. You get to decide! All details and prices can be found in the 'Personalise' section of this holiday page.
If you need any help in deciding which activities to enjoy then please do not hesitate to contact our Travel Experts as they will be able to use their firsthand knowledge to help you plan your perfect activity break in Harriniva.
Please note that some activities require a minimum number of participants to operate, schedules are always subject to change and are subject to availability.
Image credit: Estelle Carter, Antti Pietikainen
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Key facts
| Duration: | 7 nights |
| Pace: | Set your own |
Dates & Prices
Thank you for your interest in this Artisan Travel experience.
We have found that this holiday is better tailored exactly to your requirements, so please email our Travel Experts at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact us on 01670 785 085 to discuss the various options available to you.
Our Travel Experts have been to all the destinations we feature and love to share their experiences and insight. We want to match you with your perfect trip, so if you have any questions please get in touch; we will be happy to talk through the destinations and itineraries with you.
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Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival, Transfer and Welcome
You will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your accommodation in Harriniva. There will be time to settle into your room before dinner and a welcome meeting with your representative who will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.
The beauty of our tailor made option is that you can set the pace of your trip.
The base price includes your flights, transfers, half-board accommodation for seven nights, cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay, fully qualified wilderness guides during your chosen activities and the services of our representative. You simply select the activities you would like to do from the list shown in the 'personalise' section, ensuring your holiday can be as active or gentle as you wish.
Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you craft the ideal itinerary.
Included Meals: Dinner -
DAY 2 - 7
Design Your Own Holiday
Fill your days with as many or as few activities as you wish, selecting from the options listed in our 'Personalise' section of the holiday page.
There's a wealth of Arctic experiences and Aurora hunting options to choose from and should you need advice on the best options for you please speak to one of our Travel Experts. They will be able to help prepare the perfect itinerary for you.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
DAY 8
Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Kittilä Airport for your flights home.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Harriniva Adventure Resort
Nights: 1-7
Ideally located in the north-west corner of Finland, high above the Arctic Circle and in the very heart of the Aurora Zone, Harriniva Adventure Resort serves as a perfect base for your adventure holiday.
Welcoming guests for over 50 years now, the hotel has developed a growing reputation for its warm ambience and the large range of enjoyable activities on offer.
Hotel facilities
The hotel has a range of facilities that have been designed to make your stay here as enjoyable as possible.
- There is free Wi-Fi throughout for guest use, in our experience, we have found it works best in the main reception and dining area
- The hotel restaurant consists of three separate dining areas. The meals are served in a buffet style with two or three choices for each course. The food here is hearty and wholesome
- The hotel also has a pub serving a range of beers, wines and spirits - this is the perfect place to unwind and relax with your fellow guests in the evening
- Tea and coffee are available free of charge throughout the day in the hotel restaurant / bar area.
- In the main reception area of the hotel, you will find a small gift shop selling a range of postcards, soft toys and handcrafted products. There is also a selection of snacks that can be purchased
- A sauna is available for guest use with separate facilities for men and women. This is free of charge and is heated every evening for around three hours
- The hotel also has an Aurora Wellness Centre (situated a short walk away on the riverbank), where you can enjoy a range of therapies such as facials or massages. A real treat after a day of sapping up the pristine wilderness! During peak periods, we would strongly recommend booking therapies in advance through reception (all payable locally)
- Snowshoes and cross-country skis are available to hire for a small charge and there are marked trails surrounding the hotel for those with some experience. For those interested in downhill skiing, the reception will be able to arrange a taxi to the nearby ski resort of Olos (payable locally).
Room types
Double/twin rooms: Harriniva has 64 guest bedrooms which consist of twin or double rooms. Triple rooms are also available on request. Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, all rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer.
Safari House: For those travelling on our longer husky or snowmobile experiences, your nights before and after setting out on your adventure you will stay either at one of the Pietikäinen family’s three hotels (in a shared room) or a safari house located near the Harriniva Wilderness Hotel (max distance of around 5km). If you are staying in one of the hotels then you will enjoy your evening meal in that hotel restaurant, if you are staying in one of the safari houses the hotel will provide a minibus to take you to dinner. You will be provided will full information regarding your accommodation for the first and final nights of your stay upon arrival. If you are staying in one of the Safari Houses then each has sleeping facilities, a shower room, toilet, hairdryer and a sauna.
Wilderness plus rooms: These recently renovated rooms include double/twin beds and an unfolding sofa suitable for 1 adult or 2 children. Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, all rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer, as well as a small seating area
Image Credits: Matt Robinson, Emmi Kähkönen, Harriniva Hotels & Safaris
Other options
Harriniva Riverside Cabins
Set in a picturesque, riverside location and ranging from 39m² to 47m², Harriniva’s Riverside Cabins are ideal for larger groups, or those wanting a little more space and privacy during their trip. Each cabin sleeps five people in total, with a main bedroom for two people, a lower ceilinged loft area (accessible by a steep ladder) sleeping a further two people and a pull-out sofa bed in the lounge. Fully equipped with kitchen facilities, including a stove, dishwasher and fridge, and with a cosy living room, you can relax and enjoy your own space in complete comfort. Each cabin even has its own private sauna, perfect for keeping warm after a long day out in the cold.
Please speak to one of our Travel Experts for a quote.
©Antti Pietikainen
Jeris and Torassieppi Aurora Huts
The unique Aurora Huts at Jeris and Torassieppi offer a rather different overnight experience for guests. These huts have pleasant, cosy décor, with floor to ceiling windows on one wall, allowing you to gaze at the night sky in search of the Northern Lights. The Aurora huts at Torassieppi are located close to the lakeshore, whereas the huts at Jeris are located in the woods. The exact location of your dome will be confirmed upon check-in at your hotel.
Each hut has a double bed, a composting toilet and a small sink with running water. Shower and sauna facilities are just a short walk away (around 50-150 metres). There is space for one extra bed in the huts, but space will be very limited when added.
Special Nights
Overnight stay in a wilderness cabin
In the evening, you will be taken to a wilderness cabin with shared facilities, around 45 minutes away. You will travel there by either minibus or snowmobile-pulled sleigh. A wood-heated sauna by the lake will be waiting for you, as will a hearty fireside dinner. Far from light pollution, you will also be able to look out for the Northern Lights dancing in the dark sky. Settle down for the night in before waking up to a rousing breakfast the next day. Following that, you will head back to Harriniva.
You will stay in either a shared mezzanine sleeping area or can choose to upgrade to a private room if you prefer (subject to supplement and availability - contact our team for a quotation).
This activity does not include your hotel accommodation back at Harriniva.
Activity level: Low
Suitable for those aged 12 years and over.
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Saturday at 5 pm
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
Arctic Sauna World with Shaman
Saunas are an intrinsic part of life in Finland, their use dates back over 7000BC and they are a part of the culture in Lapland. This evening’s activity allows you to try a multitude of sauna experiences at Harriniva’s sister hotel at Jeris, whilst learning about the traditions and customs which accompany sauna use. The saunas are based on the elements, and a shaman will join you to conduct a ceremony calling on the power of Nature for you.
Read moreDuration: approximately 3-4hrs including transfers
Available: Wednesday and Friday at 8.20pm
Other options
Activities
Aurora Snow Shuttle
The carriage (the type of carriage will depend on the availability and weather forecast) will be pulled along by your expert guide on a snowmobile, and as you journey further into the darkness, keep your eye out for a potential display.
Read more about this activityYou’ll be taken to a campfire site where you can enjoy hot drinks and a snack by an open fire and continue your search. Your location will be chosen based on the local weather and Aurora forecast for the evening, giving you the best possible chance of ticking the Northern Lights off your bucket list.
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
Available: Tuesdays and Fridays at 8pm (Jeris); Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 8pm (Harriniva)
Spirit of the Sámi (Harriniva only)
Sámi Culture remains the backbone of life in Lapland, and an understanding of this indigenous culture is a central element of any holiday in Finland. This evening, a local Sámi will sing/perform his traditional songs – or Joiks. He will then show you the colourful Sámi outfits and hidden meanings amongst the clothes. Local drinks and ‘tapas’ will be provided and your guide will talk you through the delicious morsels you will be enjoying.
Duration: approximately 1-1.5 hours
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Minimum age: 4 years old
Available: Friday at 9pm
Husky Three Day Adventure
For those who want to incorporate a true adventure into their holiday, this 3-day husky tour is ideal. Spending two nights in remote wilderness cabins, you will lead your own team of dogs throughout, as you cross the Arctic landscape each day. The distances travelled and the routes chosen will vary depending on the conditions. The cabin accommodation is basic and shared, in some, there is no running water or electricity (but as this is Finland there is usually a sauna!), so everyone must pitch in to set up camp on arrival, collect firewood and feed the dogs. It’s all very much part of the fun!
Read more about this activityDinners and breakfasts will be served in the cabins, whilst lunches will be provided on the trail and around a campfire if the weather allows. After breakfast on day 3, you will set off back to Harriniva.
Your luggage will be stored at Harriniva during your adventure as you will not keep your accommodation for these two nights. Prior experience is not essential as full instruction is provided, however, you must have a sense of adventure and a reasonable level of fitness to take part, as the days can be physically demanding.
Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Min age: 18 years old
Available: Thursday at 10am
Northern Lights Explorer by Minibus
Head out by minibus in search of the Northern Lights, hopefully, they will make an appearance for you tonight. Your guide will check the weather forecast and take you to the area with the best chance of spotting the Northern Lights. You will even cross the border into Sweden!
Hot drinks are included during this two-hour activity.
Read more about this activityMinimum group size: 2 adults
Suitable for: those aged 12 years and over
Available: Thursday 9 pm
Please note: this activity can only be booked locally
Image credit: Antti Pietikainen
Howl with the huskies (Overnight Husky Safari)
A true wilderness experience is in store for you, as you will be pulled through extraordinary outdoor environments covering approximately 20 to 25km each day. You will overnight in a rustic wilderness cabin equipped with a sauna to unwind in after the day’s adventure. You will have dinner and breakfast there; lunch will be prepared over an open campfire. You will be responsible for looking after your husky team and assisting with campsite tasks, like collecting firewood.
Read more about this activityEach cabin is slightly different to the others, with some having the most basic facilities (no running water or electricity). All are comfy and will keep you nice and warm; all the more so once the fire gets going. Everyone will sleep in a dormitory-style arrangement and helping with water and firewood collection is all part of the outdoor experience! Given the remote location of the cabins, you will be well-placed in light pollution-free zones for viewing the Northern Lights.
All instruction and equipment are provided (including an Arctic grade sleeping bag). Each person will drive their own sled on the safari.
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Activity level: High
Available: Friday at 10 am
Suitable for: those aged 18 years and over
Image credit: Laura Hodgkiss
Overnight Snowmobiling Wilderness Safari
Pack your bags for a real adventure using snowmobiles to get you to your wilderness cabin accommodation. After driving instruction and a safety briefing, you will set off through the wilds, travelling across frozen lakes and through snow-laden forests. On your first day, you will travel around 50km, arriving at the cabin early in the evening. Your guide will heat the sauna by the lake so you can unwind then prepare dinner over the fire and everyone will muck in with the camp tasks. This is a spectacular place in which to spend the night and being so far from light pollution offers a great opportunity to witness the Northern Lights should conditions be favourable.
Read more about this activityAfter a night in the cabin (shared accommodation), you will enjoy breakfast before travelling around 30km back to Harriniva.
You will travel one person per snowmobile throughout and so you must hold a full driving licence and be over 18.
All instruction and equipment are provided
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Activity level: High
Available: Saturday at 3 pm
Snowshoe and Arctic Elements Sauna World (Harriniva only)
Following a transfer into the spectacular Pallas Fell area, you will strap on snowshoes and hike in this wonderful region. Journeying upwards, you will be treated to some lovely views before tucking into a delicious lunch at Jeris.
A rewarding finish to the activity comes with a visit to the lakeside Arctic Sauna World, complete with saunas and a chance to dip into the icy waters of Lakes Jeris. In Finland, the sauna is a place for relaxation, meditation as well as mental and physical cleanliness, and Jeris is a luxurious spa facility to experience this traditional pastime.
Read more about this activityThe four saunas have been carefully themed on the four elements; earth, air, fire and water, as these are found in all traditions and shamanic wellbeing rituals. These elements combine to create a fifth, steamy löyly, the spirit of sauna. Each element is represented by Finnish gods or goddesses, as the protectors of the saunas:
Sauna of Tapio (Earth). Tapio is the antlered king of the forest and in this sauna, you will feel the earthly and forest surroundings of the Finnish wilderness. It is split into north, east, south and west, each providing a different kind of löyly.
Sauna of Ukko (Fire). Ukko is the king of all gods and master of lightning, fire and air. This smoke sauna is the most traditional, and a favourite among the Finns. The heating process carries the smoke throughout to create a dark colouring, smokey scent and if you choose, a fiery heat.
Sauna of Vellamo (Water). Vellamo is the goddess of water and the ruler of lakes and rivers. This sauna has a panoramic view over Lake Jeris, a holy place for Sámi people, offering a calming atmosphere. The soft and moist löyly means you can stay in for longer for extended relaxation.
Sauna of Ilmatar (Air). Ilmatar is the goddess of wind and the first mother in the beginning of times. This sauna has no fire or thick walls - instead infrared heaters are situated inside a traditional kota for a soft and gentle heat. Think of this as half sauna, half relaxation room.
The really brave (and healthy) can also take a dip in the icy lake waters - a technique the Finns swear by!
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Duration: approximately 5-6 hours in total including transfers and lunch
Available: Wednesday and Friday at 9.20 am
Image credits: Antti Pietikäinen
Reindeer Aurora Experience
Two of the most iconic Lapland attractions meet for one enchanting outdoor experience: travel through the snowy forest on a reindeer sleigh (2 people per sled), looking out for the Northern Lights as you cover around 3km. The lack of light pollution in this open location ensures that you will have undisturbed viewing opportunities. Hot drinks will be served by a campfire after your safari and you will be out for around 1.5-2 hours (including transfers).
Read more about this activityActivity level: Medium
Minimum age: 12 years old
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Tuesday & Thursday at 8.20 pm
Snowmobile to Torassieppi Reindeer Farm and Winter Village
Before hitting the trails, a full safety briefing and instruction will be provided. Covering a total of 40km today you will travel past frozen lakes and forests blanketed in white, as you make your way to the Torassieppi Reindeer Farm and Winter Village on by snowmobile.
Read more about this activityOn arrival you’ll visit the traditional reindeer farm, one of the oldest in Finland where you will meet and feed the reindeer, which are synonymous with this region. After your animal encounters you will head to the nearby Winter Village, where you will enjoy lunch in the ice restaurant before heading back to Harriniva.
This trip is based on two people sharing a snowmobile but if you would like to travel with your own machine this can be arranged for a supplement so please just ask our sales team for details. You will be out for a total of around 3.5 hours.
Guides, instruction and equipment included.
Suitable for those aged 12 years and over but please note that you must be over 18 and hold a full driving licence to drive a snowmobile. Children will travel in a sled pulled by the guide’s snowmobile.
Activity level: Medium
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Thursday and Saturday at 10 am
Image credits: Antti Pietikainen
Aurora Adventure (20km Snowmobile Safari)
Racing after the Northern Lights on snowmobiles is utterly thrilling. You will receive a safety briefing and comprehensive instructions on working the vehicles before riding all the way to the summit of a picturesque fell during this two-hour safari. Relax with a hot drink as you look in the hope of seeing the lights dancing above you. You will cover around 20km over around two hours and will travel two people per snowmobile (ask our sales experts if you would like to upgrade to have your own machine).
Please note that you should be over 18 and hold a full driving licence to drive a snowmobile in Finland.
Read more about this activityActivity level: Low
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday at 9 pm
Local culture
The Sámi people are native to Lapland, and their culture can be found throughout the region. On this activity, you will visit a local reindeer farm and have the chance to learn about the herder's lifestyle, help feed their animals and look around the nearby museum. This farm is one of the oldest in Finland and now welcomes visitors to come and gain an insight into the very special connection between the Sámi people and their animals. A magical reindeer sleigh ride is included (approximately 3km), as is lunch in a traditional kota (tepee).
Read more about this activityFrom late December, you will then enjoy a tour of the nearby Torassieppi Winter Village which features snow rooms, ice sculptures and a very cool restaurant!
You will be out for around 4 hours (including transfers).
Activity level: Low
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Monday, Wednesday & Saturday at 10.20 am
Suitable for those aged 5 years and over.
Ski like a Finn!
A classic Nordic activity, cross-country skiing is definitely one to try. Don’t be put off if you have never skied before, as you will be well-schooled in the basics prior to heading around Harriniva’s local trails over the course of around two hours.
Guides, instruction, and equipment included.
Read more about this activitySuitable for those aged 5 years and over.
Activity level: Low
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Monday at 10 am; Thursday & Sunday at 2 pm
Ice fishing
Ice fishing is one of Finland’s most beloved pastimes. A guide will take you to a nearby fishing location, helping you to drill through the ice and set up your line before leaving you to wait patiently for a fish to bite. It’s immensely rewarding to make a catch – even if you don’t, you’ll be treated to some marvellous scenery. A hot drink is included and you will be out for around two hours.
Read more about this activitySuitable for those aged 5 years and over.
Activity level: Low
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Tuesday at 10 am and Sunday at 1 pm
Snowmobile Adventure in the Fells
Experience the thrill of the Arctic wilderness in this snowmobile adventure in the fells. This excursion is tailored to those with previous snowmobiling experience and you will travel one per snowmobile.
Guides, instruction and equipment included.
Read more about this activityPlease note: snowmobile drivers must be at least 18 years old and hold a full driving licence
Total duration: Approximately 3 hours in total
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Friday at 1.30pm (Jeris and Harriniva)
It's a husky day (25km Husky Safari)
Following a trip to the Arctic Sled Dog Centre and a full briefing on how to control the huskies, you will take on a 25km husky safari, travelling one person per sled. This is an excellent dog sled adventure that will really give you a taste of the trail as you will be out for between four and five hours.
Guides, picnic lunch, instruction and equipment included.
Read more about this activityMinimum group size: 2 adults
Activity level: High
Available: Thursday at 10.30am
Suitable for those aged 15 years and over.
Image credit: Antti Pietikainen
Secrets of the Northern Lights
There are many myths and legends about the Northern Lights, most going back centuries. There is also a good deal of science behind the phenomenon. This workshop will introduce you to both. Your expert guide will answer questions and try and give you a better understanding of this remarkable phenomenon and the science behind it. This activity will last around 1 hour.
Read more about this activityActivity level: Low
Suitable for: those aged 12 years and over.
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Mondays at 4 pm and Fridays at 4 pm
Image credit: Antti Pietikainen
Aurora Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing in search of the Northern Lights is particularly magical because you can slow down and enjoy the silence of the forests and wilderness at night, connecting to the land around you. A knowledgeable guide will take you into the dark outdoors, and you’ll stop partway for hot drinks in a prime Aurora viewpoint. You will be out for around 2 - 3 hours in total.
Activity level: Medium
Read more about this activitySuitable for those aged 12 years and over.
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Monday, Thursday & Saturday at 9 pm
©Antti Pietikäinen
Husky Safari - Tour de Olosvuoma (Harriniva only)
Pay a visit to the Arctic Sled Dog Centre and get full instructions on how to drive a dogsled. You will then set off on a thrilling husky safari, travelling two people per sled. This is an excellent safari for those who want to experience a slightly longer husky adventure with the chance to swap between being driver and passenger. You will be out for around 2 - 3 hours and will cover approximately 15km
Read more about this activityMinimum group size: 2 adults
Duration: approximately 2 - 3 hours in total
Available: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 1 pm; Friday & Saturday at 10.30 am
Image credit: Antti Pietikainen
Panorama Safari (30km Snowmobile Safari)
This activity will have you exploring the fells close to Harriniva and travelling through the winter wonderland that surrounds it; all in all, an excellent excursion for becoming familiar with the region. You will travel two to a vehicle, with the chance to swap the roles of driver and passenger in between (please note that you must hold a full driving licence and be over 18 to drive a snowmobile). Passing white forests and frozen lakes, the total distance covered will be around 30km and you will be out and about for approximately two hours.
Read more about this activityActivity level: Low
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Monday, Tuesday & Friday at 1.30 pm; Sunday at 10 am
Extensions
Husky Three Day Adventure
For those who want to incorporate a true adventure into their holiday, this 3-day husky tour is ideal. Spending two nights in remote wilderness cabins, you will lead your own team of dogs throughout, as you cross the Arctic landscape each day. The distances travelled and the routes chosen will vary depending on the conditions. The cabin accommodation is basic and shared, in some, there is no running water or electricity (but as this is Finland there is usually a sauna!), so everyone must pitch in to set up camp on arrival, collect firewood and feed the dogs. It’s all very much part of the fun!
Read more about this activityDinners and breakfasts will be served in the cabins, whilst lunches will be provided on the trail and around a campfire if the weather allows. After breakfast on day 3, you will set off back to Harriniva.
Your luggage will be stored at Harriniva during your adventure as you will not keep your accommodation for these two nights. Prior experience is not essential as full instruction is provided, however, you must have a sense of adventure and a reasonable level of fitness to take part, as the days can be physically demanding.
Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Min age: 18 years old
Available: Thursday at 10am
Little Extras
Fat biking - rental for 2 to 3 hours
Exploring Lapland by fat bike is an increasingly popular pastime and allows you to travel greater distances than you can perhaps manage by snowshoe or on cross-country skis. The wide tyres (hence the name) provide the grip you need to travel across the snow and experience the peace and quiet of your surroundings.
This is an unaccompanied activity and you are free to choose your own route; the staff at reception will have suitable route suggestions that start at the hotel.
Helmets are provided.
Available daily
©Antti Pietikainen
Cross-country ski hire
You can hire a set of skis (day hire) and test yourself on the cross-country skiing trails around Harriniva.
Image credit: Antti Pietikainen
Snowshoe hire
Hire snowshoes for the day and go trekking over the pristine snow.
Arctic Elements Sauna World
This activity starts with a transfer to Harriniva's sister hotel at Jeris. Here you can enjoy the lakeside well-being facilities.
Saunas are a popular and traditional Finnish pastime. The locals use it as a space for relaxation, meditation as well as mental and physical cleanliness - and Jeris is a luxurious spa facility for you to experience this in. What’s more, Jeris prides itself on its eco-friendly approach to tourism.
Read more about this activityFor example, geothermal heating is generated from the Jerisjärvi lake, electricity is 100% renewable from wind, water or solar power and the shower water is from the nearby under earth fountain.
The four saunas have been carefully themed on the four elements; earth, air, fire and water, as these are found in all traditions and shamanic wellbeing rituals. These elements combine to create a fifth, steamy löyly, the spirit of sauna. Each element is represented by Finnish gods or goddesses, as the protectors of the saunas:
Sauna of Tapio (Earth). Tapio is the antlered king of the forest and in this sauna, you will feel the earthly and forest surroundings of the Finnish wilderness. It is split into north, east, south and west, each providing a different kind of löyly.
Sauna of Ukko (Fire). Ukko is the king of all gods and master of lightning, fire and air. This smoke sauna is the most traditional, and a favourite among the Finns. The heating process carries the smoke throughout to create a dark colouring, smokey scent and if you choose, a fiery heat.
Sauna of Vellamo (Water). Vellamo is the goddess of water and the ruler of lakes and rivers. This sauna has a panoramic view over Lake Jeris, a holy place for Sámi people, offering a calming atmosphere. The soft and moist löyly means you can stay in for longer for extended relaxation.
Sauna of Ilmatar (Air). Ilmatar is the goddess of wind, and the first mother in the beginning of times. This sauna has no fire or thick walls - instead infrared heaters are situated inside a traditional kota for a soft and gentle heat. Think of this as half sauna, half relaxation room.
You can also choose to upgrade to the private Northern Lights sauna. Tulikettu is the mystical firefox that lights up the sky and creates the Auroras. This two-storey panorama sauna is ideally situated under the open sky with a 180-degree view over Lake Jeris. The relaxing room on the second floor has an all-sky panoramic window for a clear view of the night sky and if conditions are favourable, the Northern Lights. This sauna is perfect for private relaxation and comes with its own toilets, changing room and showers. Please ask our Artisan Travel Experts if you wish to include the Northern Lights sauna in your package.
The really brave (and healthy) can also take a dip in the icy lake waters - a technique the Finns swear by!
Transfers and towels are included and this is an excellent and relaxing way to spend 3 - 4 hours (incl. transfers).
Please note that you must be fit and healthy to try ice swimming.
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: every day at 4pm (Jeris); Tuesday and Saturday at 3:30 pm
Special Nights
Overnight stay in a wilderness cabin
In the evening, you will be taken to a wilderness cabin with shared facilities, around 45 minutes away. You will travel there by either minibus or snowmobile-pulled sleigh. A wood-heated sauna by the lake will be waiting for you, as will a hearty fireside dinner. Far from light pollution, you will also be able to look out for the Northern Lights dancing in the dark sky. Settle down for the night in before waking up to a rousing breakfast the next day. Following that, you will head back to Harriniva.
Read more about this activityYou will stay in either a shared mezzanine sleeping area or can choose to upgrade to a private room if you prefer (subject to supplement and availability - contact our team for a quotation).
This activity does not include your hotel accommodation back at Harriniva.
Activity level: Low
Suitable for those aged 12 years and over.
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Saturday at 5 pm
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
My sister and I have been taking Arctic trips for the past 6 or 7 years, Finland, Norway, Iceland. This was our second trip to Finland and our first time with Artisan. It was my favourite trip of them all and Artisan were just fantastic in all aspects. Our Rep Katrina was literally a little ray of sunshine. Always smiling, always interested, knew her guests and what they were doing and couldn't't…
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have been more helpful. I work in the hospitality industry (Weddings/Events Manager) and I would employ her at the drop of a hat!! Very difficult to highlight one - they were all absolutely fantastic, with knowledgeable, helpful and very cheery guides (with the exception of the above!). Snowshoeing (nighttime and daytime with spa) were new ones for me, so I'm going with those!!
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