Rovaniemi: Horse Sleigh Ride under the Night Sky

If you’re dreaming of a true Arctic adventure, this horse sleigh ride in Rovaniemi offers a wonderfully authentic way to experience Lapland’s winter magic. Imagine cuddling in warm blankets, gliding silently through snow-covered forests, and perhaps catching a glimpse of the elusive Aurora Borealis. This tour is a gentle, enchanting journey that combines nature, culture, and a touch of folklore, making it perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful yet memorable Arctic experience.

What we love most? First, the chance to glide through snowy trails pulled by Finn Horses, renowned for their gentle nature and resilience in the cold. Second, the storytelling, which adds a layer of local tradition and mystique to the ride. However, a possible consideration is that the Northern Lights are never guaranteed; faint auroras were noted by some past guests. This experience is best suited for those who appreciate serene winter landscapes, cozy atmospheres, and cultural stories rather than high-adrenaline activities.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and culturally rich encounter with Lapland’s winter wonderland, this tour offers a lovely blend of all three. It’s ideal for couples, families, or anyone wanting a taste of genuine Finnish hospitality under the stars.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: A quiet, scenic horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered forests.
• Northern Lights Possibility: Though not guaranteed, there’s a chance to see the Aurora Borealis in a peaceful setting.
• Cultural Insights: Guided stories about the Northern Lights, Finnish Horses, and local legends add depth to the experience.
• Comfort and Convenience: Warm blankets, winter clothing, and hot drinks make the cold manageable.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, but not for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.
• Value for Money: For $185, you get a 3 km sleigh ride, local storytelling, hot drinks, and winter gear—creating a memorable Arctic outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

An Overview of the Tour

This three-hour adventure begins with convenient pickup options either from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village. Once at the Apukka Resort, you’ll be greeted by guides eager to share their knowledge about Finnish horses, local folklore, and the natural beauty surrounding you. The core of the experience is a 3 km horse-drawn sleigh ride through beautifully crafted snowy trails, which promises a peaceful glide through Lapland’s winter landscape.

What Makes the Ride Special?

The sleigh ride itself is a highlight, especially for those who appreciate gentle, old-fashioned travel. The horses, Finn Horses, are known for their calm demeanor and ability to thrive in cold conditions—ideal companions for a winter ride. You’ll be wrapped in warm blankets, making the ride cozy despite the chilly air. As you traverse the frost-covered forests along specially designed snowy paths at Apukka Resort, you’ll notice how quiet and still the Arctic landscape feels at night.

The Stories and Legends

One of the tour’s appealing aspects is the stories shared by guides about Northern Lights myths and the Finn Horses’ significance in Finnish culture. Past guests, like Emanoelle, appreciated how the storytelling helped them understand the landscape and folklore, even with limited English skills. These tales add a layer of enchantment, turning what might be just a scenic ride into a cultural window into Lapland.

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The Aurora Borealis and Night Sky

While the natural spectacle of the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed on any given night, the possibility adds to the allure. Guests have noted that even a faint aurora was seen, which still made the experience magical. The dark, clear Arctic sky provides an ideal backdrop for star gazing—an activity that’s most impressive when the sky is free of light pollution. If the Aurora appears, you’ll witness a mesmerizing display that’s hard to match elsewhere.

The Campfire and Warm Drinks

At the forest’s edge, a bonfire crackles as you enjoy hot drinks and sausages in rustic wooden cups. This simple moment of warmth amid the snow is often highlighted as a favorite part of the tour. It’s a chance to relax, chat, and absorb the quiet beauty of the winter night, all while savoring traditional Finnish snacks.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour includes winter clothing, such as thermal overalls, boots, woolen socks, mittens, and a balaclava, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear—though layering is always wise. The group sizes are manageable, with each sleigh accommodating about six to eight guests, arranged to keep families or friends together as much as possible.

Transportation is straightforward. If needed, transfers are included from Rovaniemi or Santa Claus Village, making logistics simple. You’ll want to reserve in advance and check the specific pickup times to ensure smooth planning.

Price and Value

At $185 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest Arctic activity, but it offers good value considering what’s included: the 3 km sleigh ride, storytelling, hot drinks, warm gear, and transfers. The experience isn’t just about the ride but about enjoying the Arctic ambiance, Finnish culture, and the chance to witness nature’s winter beauty in a peaceful setting.

What Past Guests Say

Guests love the authenticity and magical atmosphere. Ivonne called it “simply magical,” praising the rustic carriage, campfire, sausages, hot drinks, and, of course, the Aurora if seen. Another guest, Emanoelle, appreciated how the stories brought Finnish culture to life, even with limited language skills.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horse sleigh ride is perfect for those looking for a calm, scenic, and culturally immersive experience. It suits nature lovers, families, couples, or anyone who appreciates the quiet beauty of winter landscapes. It’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as a short walk to the horses is required. Also, if your primary goal is to see the Aurora, remember that this experience offers a chance, not a guarantee.

Final Thoughts

This Rovaniemi horse sleigh ride delivers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter charm. It’s about slow, peaceful rides through snowy forests, stories that connect you to Finnish folklore, and the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights in a cozy, starry setting. The combination of natural beauty, cultural storytelling, and warm hospitality makes it a memorable Arctic experience worth considering.

Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or alone seeking serenity, you’ll find this tour offers a unique, authentic slice of Finnish winter life. The gentle pace, stunning scenery, and friendly guides make it a high-value outing—one that leaves many guests with a warm glow, even if the skies stay dark.

FAQ

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed on this tour?
No, the aurora is a natural phenomenon and can’t be promised. However, past guests have enjoyed faint auroras, and the dark night sky creates a wonderful backdrop for star gazing.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is provided, but it’s smart to dress in weather-appropriate layers. Think thermal underwear, wool sweaters, and waterproof outerwear, especially if you plan to be outside for a while.

How long is the sleigh ride?
The actual horse-drawn ride covers about 3 km, which typically lasts around 2.5 hours including the storytelling and campfire.

Are children welcome?
Yes, this experience is suitable for families, but consider that a short walk is needed to reach the horses. Children generally enjoy the cozy atmosphere and stories.

What’s included in the price?
You get the sleigh ride, guiding and storytelling, hot drinks, sausages, winter clothing, and transfers if needed.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it isn’t. The tour requires a short walk to reach the horses, and it’s not designed for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the activity.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and culturally enriching Arctic adventure, this horse sleigh ride under the night sky in Rovaniemi offers a wonderfully authentic glimpse into Lapland’s winter life. It’s a gentle journey that creates lasting memories, whether you get a glimpse of the Aurora or simply enjoy the serene beauty of snow-laden forests in the dark.

You can check availability for your dates here: