A Northern Lights Adventure

Sep 23

I LOVE sharing the stunning trips my clients take, and Doug and June's northern lights adventure is no different! Their expedition took them to the breathtaking landscapes of Finland and Sweden, where they experienced the raw beauty and serenity of the Nordic wilderness. From cozying up in snow-covered igloos under a canopy of stars to witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights dancing across the night sky, their journey was a symphony of natural wonders.

One of the highlights of their trip was the chance to encounter real reindeer in their natural habitat. They even got to feed these majestic creatures and learn about their significance to the local culture. Additionally, they explored the frozen landscapes on snowmobiles, feeling a sense of freedom and exhilaration as they raced across the icy terrain.

If you're inspired by Doug and June's adventure and ready to embark on your own Arctic escape, let's start planning your dream vacation together. Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure or a peaceful retreat, I can help you create a personalized itinerary that exceeds your expectations!

Check out their full itinerary below!

June & Doug at a stunning sunset in Finland (luckily they packed enough layers)!

Finland

Known as the world’s happiest country, Finland has both urban and rural attractions, making it a great destination for those seeking the best of both worlds! Helsinki, the capital, is definitely a spot to visit because of it’s culture and atmosphere. Helsinki offers beautiful architecture and parks, as well as museums, art galleries and landmarks such as historic churches. One of the coldest places in the area, Helsinki has once reached the temperature of −29.7 °F.

DAY 1 - Helsinki, Finland

Take a Private City Sightseeing Tour highlights of the city including Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral, Sederholm House, the Presidential Palace, the Parliament building and the modern City Hall
Stay at St. George Hotel located in the heart of the city

Finnish Lapland

Known for being the home of Santa Claus, the Finnish Lapland is a winter wonderland that you can meet reindeer, Santa Claus, and huskies. Visit the husky or reindeer farm and get an up close and personal meeting where you can pet and cuddle them, and learn about how they’re taken care of! Staying in an igloo is a must do so you can see the stunning views of the Northern Lights while you’re bundled and cozy with your loved ones.

DAY 2 - Finnish Lapland

Stay in the Levin Iglut Igloos and look at the starry sky in the comfort of your bed (snuggled in the warmth!)
Try the Utsu Restaurant
Go on the Polarman's Camp Tour - No tourists, a 360 view of the sky, very little light pollution, and a warm shelter with a crackling fire to watch in makes this a luxury experience! You will also have a storyteller, the Polarman, to guide your experience and educate you on the amazing sights. As soon as the Polarman spots an indication of Aurora, you’ll be invited outside to enjoy the most amazing show of the Arctic nature. Your guide can take pictures of you and your loved ones to capture the memories being made, and if you’re feeling too cold, you can huddle inside and have a glass of hot berry juice with ginger cookies.

DAY 3 - Finnish Lapland

Enjoy a Private Reindeer Safari - Take in the winter wonderland led by the reindeer to enjoy a relaxing adventure through the Arctic. There will be plenty of photographic moments so you can show everyone how amazing this secluded environment is!
Have a private driver take you to the BEST view of the Northern Lights - Even though it’s about a 3 hour drive, it is SO worth it! The driver has knowledge of the local weather and the best spots to see the lights, even if it’s cloudy or snowing! Even though it’s not a guarantee to see the lights (nature does it’s own thing sometimes), even a glimpse of them is an amazing sight that not many people have the chance to experience.
Stay in the Levin Iglut Igloos

Doug & June on a reindeer sled ride

Doug hanging out with a reindeer!

DAY 4 - Finnish Lapland

Go on a Husky Park & Private Musher Driven Safari - You’ll get to visit one of the oldest husky kennels in the area and go on a ride with a professional musher. The sleigh seats 2 adults and you’ll notice that the dogs are guiding you at their own pace! The track your taken on goes through the winter forest, so make sure to dress warm.
Take the afternoon to discover the local culture - ask us what we recommend!
Stay in the Levin Iglut Igloos

Husky sleigh ride in the Arctic

SWEDEN

Most known for the Aurora Borealis, winter scenery, and unique wildlife, Swedish Lapland is a stunning area of the Arctic Circle. The Ice Hotel really is a standout, and pictures don’t do it justice! This location offers the perfect place for exploring the Arctic, from thrilling ice activities to scenic tours and the possibility of witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights.

DAY 5 - Swedish Lapland

Enjoy the Private IceHotel Guided Tour - Every winter, the Torne River turns to ice and people can enjoy the IceHotel! The first one was sculpted in 1989 and it since has become a sought after destination for travelers from all over. It is SO impressive that they have to re-do this every year, and the artistry doesn’t go unnoticed.
Have dinner in the Ice Restaurant
Relax during a Private Jukkasjärvi Sauna Ritual - A tradition of Northern Sweden, this spa treatment is definitely a must try! This experience isn’t just a sauna, it’s a sauna ritual, so the 10 step process also includes a wood-fired outdoor bath and an ice plunge in the Torne River.
Stay at the IceHotel for a once in a lifetime experience

Stunning Ice Hotel

June enjoying a glass of champagne in the Ice Hotel!

DAY 6 - Swedish Lapland

Go on a Private Wildlife Nature and Photo tour - Your guide will show you some great spots for seeing local wildlife and the stunning landscape during the day. You will get to use a professional camera to take pictures of moose, reindeer, and birds! The tour ends with a cup of coffee or tea served by an open fire in the wilderness before returning to IceHotel.
Attend a Scheduled Wilderness Dinner - Swedish Lapland has eight seasons with a noticeable difference, and that causes there to only be particular ingredients each season. Check out the flavors of the winter season in isolation by indulging in a three course meal with fresh and local ingredients. This is a unique experience that foodies will love!
Stay at the IceHotel for a once in a lifetime experience

Wilderness Dinner - indulge in a three course meal with fresh and local ingredients

Since this trip, I've helped multiple families and couples do something similar! Europe requests continue to filter in every week so if you are debating on visiting Europe, you should plan it a year to 9 months in advance of your travel dates if possible. I can't wait to help you plan the perfect itinerary to one, two or three countries!

Cheers to all things travel!