2 Best Dinner Experiences In Saariselka

Finnish Lapland’s dining scene in Saariselkä serves up authentic adventures alongside memorable meals. Two standout experiences combine northern lights viewing with traditional local cuisine. The Lake Inari tour features classic BBQ sausages and rich reindeer or salmon soup, topped off with wild blueberry treats. For a more adventurous meal, the evening snowmobile tours offer cozy campfire dinners with options for vegetarians and gluten-free diets.

I especially love these tours for combining the thrill of arctic exploration with down-to-earth Finnish cooking – it’s the kind of authentic experience that creates lasting memories. The food is hearty, local, and served in a setting that can’t be beat.

Let’s explore the best dinner tours Saariselkä has to offer.

Key Points

1. Traditional Finnish meals featuring local ingredients like reindeer, salmon, and blueberries are popular dinner options in Saariselkä.

2. Some tour companies offer dinner experiences as part of their outdoor activities, such as the Northern Lights tour with a campfire-cooked meal.

3. Restaurants in Saariselkä cater to various dietary requirements, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all visitors.

4. Cozy, intimate settings with panoramic views of the Arctic wilderness create a memorable atmosphere for dinner in Saariselkä.

5. Warm drinks, such as hot beverages, are often served during or after dinner to enhance the overall comfort and experience.

From Saariselkä: Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari, Including Dinner

Setting out on a 5-hour Northern Lights tour from Saariselkä, visitors are transported through wintry fells to the frozen expanse of Lake Inari. After donning cozy thermal outfits, they’ll enjoy a scenic snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride through the woods to the lake.

Once there, they’ll have the chance to watch for the elusive Aurora Borealis, with the opportunity to view the lights from the lake and a small nearby island.

Dinner is a traditional Finnish affair, with BBQ sausages, homemade reindeer or salmon soup, and blueberry desserts served around a campfire.

While the tour promises a memorable experience, guests should note that aurora visibility isn’t guaranteed and can vary based on weather conditions. Past reviews indicate mixed sightings, with some guests seeing faint lights and others left disappointed.

Accessibility is also limited, as the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly and not recommended for certain medical conditions. This Northern Lights excursion offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and culinary delights.

Read our full review: From Saariselkä: Northern Lights Tour to Lake Inari, Including Dinner Review
Book now: Check availability

Saariselkä/Inari: Evening Snowmobile Tour With Fire & Dinner

Visitors to Saariselkä and Inari can embark on an exhilarating 3-hour evening snowmobile tour that showcases the region’s enchanting Arctic wilderness. Priced from $154.29 per person, the tour provides the opportunity to glide through the snowy landscape and potentially witness the mesmerizing northern lights.

Participants will enjoy a cozy campfire experience with a dinner of sausage, vegetarian, or gluten-free options, accompanied by warm drinks. Well-maintained snowmobiles and warm clothing are provided, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey.

The tour is suitable for groups, though children under 12 and those with mobility impairments may not participate. Pickup and drop-off are included, with the actual meeting time confirmed via email.

While the tour has received generally positive reviews, with high marks for transportation, there are mixed comments on guide engagement and driving experience. With limited availability, it’s recommended to check online for booking.

Read our full review: Saariselkä/Inari: Evening Snowmobile Tour With Fire & Dinner Review
Book now: Check availability

The Sum Up

Saariselkä offers a range of exceptional dinner experiences for visitors. From Northern Lights tours with lakeside dining to snowmobile adventures with fireside feasts, the area provides unique opportunities to savor the region’s natural beauty and local cuisine. Whether seeking a cozy cabin setting or a thrilling outdoor adventure, Saariselkä’s dinner experiences promise an unforgettable culinary journey in the heart of Finnish Lapland.