- Overview
- Map & Itinerary
- Essential Info
- Pics & Vids
- Dates & Prices
Highlights
- Experience the vast frozen wilderness of Pallas–Ylläs National Park in Finnish Lapland
- Traverse approximately 100km over 5 stages, with shorter daily route options available
- Snowshoe through frozen forests and fairytale-white trails beneath wide Arctic skies
- Back-country ski across silent tundra and over powder-filled terrain
- Complete an officially timed Ice Marathon or Half Marathon — run or walk, the choice is yours
- Experience the thrill of husky dog sledding through pristine wilderness
- Fatbike across snow-covered tracks with sweeping fell-top views
- Warm up Finnish-style with wood-fired saunas and brave, invigorating ice dips
- Enjoy hearty Finnish cuisine and stay in traditional timber lumberjack cabins
- Receive a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle to minimise our plastic foot- print in Finland!
Overview
Two hundred kilometres above the Arctic Circle, deep in Finnish Lapland, a vast white wilderness awaits. The Finland Arctic Challenge takes place in the breathtaking Pallas–Ylläs National Park, in the legendary 7 Fells region — often described as Europe’s last true wilderness. Here, frozen forests stretch for miles, powder snow blankets the tundra and wide-open fell tops reveal sweeping views across an untamed Arctic landscape.
Your journey begins in the mountain village of Ylläs and concludes in the ski resort town of Levi. Both are under an hour from Kittilä Airport and Kolari train station, with convenient shuttle connections before and after flights and trains — making this remote adventure surprisingly accessible.
Over 5 immersive days, you’ll traverse approximately 100km across snow-covered terrain. Each stage brings a new way to move through the Arctic:
- Snowshoeing through silent, frost-laden forests.
- An officially timed Ice Marathon or Half Marathon — run or walk, your choice.
- Back-country skiing across open tundra – no previous experience required.
- Unforgettable thrill of husky dog sledding.
- And fatbiking on snowy trails – again no previous fatbiking experience required.
Expect to spend around 6–7 hours each day in the wilderness, with shorter route options available throughout. No previous technical skills are required — just stamina, determination and a willingness to embrace winter properly.
You’ll be based in traditional timber lumberjack cabins, experiencing Lapland in the most authentic way possible. Evenings are about recovery and connection: hearty Finnish meals, wood-fired saunas, brave ice dips, fireside conversations and, if the skies are clear, the chance to witness the Northern Lights dancing overhead.
This is more than a multi-sport challenge. It’s full immersion in Finnish culture — living as locals live, traversing the landscapes as locals do, respecting nature, embracing the cold and discovering what you’re capable of in true Arctic conditions.
Your trip costs includes everything in Lapland — accommodation, meals, activities, guiding and logistics. All you need to do is live in the moment and keep warm.
Join us and push your limits in the Finland Arctic Challenge.
Tervetuloa Lappiin (Welcome to Lapland)
Arrive into Kittilä Airport (KTT), deep in Finnish Lapland, approximately 200km above the Arctic Circle. From here, take the local shuttle bus to Lapland Hotels Saaga in Ylläs Äkäslompolo (full travel details will be provided in advance).
If you would prefer support with flights, we’ll share recommended options — or you can book through our ATOL and ABTA protected flight agent at their respective cost.
On arrival at the hotel, a warm Arctic welcome awaits from your Finnish guide and support team. After settling into your twin-share ensuite room, you’ll gather for a full trip briefing and kit check. This is where the week becomes real — routes explained, safety covered, questions answered and the challenge ahead brought into focus.
Dinner is at your leisure this evening. You may choose to dine in the hotel’s bistro or restaurant, or explore one of the nearby local eateries. If you’re keen to embrace Finnish tradition from the outset, the sauna is ready and waiting.
Any luggage not required for the expedition can be securely stored with the local team.
Included
Accommodation: Lapland Hotels Saaga (twin share basis)
Meals: Not included
Stage 1 – Snowshoe into the Arctic Wilderness
After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the start of your winter challenge and officially step into the white silence of Pallas–Ylläs National Park.
Fully equipped with Arctic suit, snow boots, snowshoes and trekking poles, you’ll receive instruction on essential techniques before setting off. Snowshoeing is intuitive and surprisingly accessible — and today is about learning, finding your rhythm and embracing the landscape.
Weather dependent, you’ll move through snow-coated forests that feel straight out of Narnia, climbing gradually towards one of the iconic fells. These ancient, rounded mountains rise above the tree line into open Arctic tundra, rewarding your effort with sweeping wilderness views across Lapland’s vast frozen terrain.
A packed lunch is enjoyed along the trail, easing you into the quiet simplicity that defines everyday life in the north.
In the afternoon, you continue deeper into the national park, traversing powder snow for several hours before reaching your base for the night: a traditional lumberjack cabin, surrounded by nothing but forest and sky.
An arrival snack awaits, followed by one of Finland’s greatest traditions — the wood-fired sauna and ice dip. You’ll learn how to prepare and heat the sauna properly before easing tired muscles in the warmth. For the brave, there may even be the option of an ice dip.
Dinner is hearty and communal. Local hosts share stories of Nordic culture, Lapland’s natural rhythms and the history of the lumberjacks who once worked these remote forests.
This is full immersion from day one.
Included
Kit: Arctic suit, snow boots, snowshoes and trekking poles
Transfer: Private transfer
Accommodation: Aakenus Lumberjack Cabin (dorm-style bunk rooms)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Stage 2: Arctic Ice Marathon or Half Marathon
Today is the headline challenge.
200kms above the Arctic Circle, you step onto the historic lumberjack trail for your officially timed Arctic Ice Marathon or Half Marathon. You can run it. You can walk it. What matters is forward progress across one of the most spectacular winter racecourses in Europe.
The route winds through frozen forests, across open tundra and along snow-packed trails and roads once used by the region’s lumberjacks. The scenery is vast and humbling. The air is crisp. Every breath feels sharp and alive.
Temperatures can dip well below freezing, and frost may cling to eyelashes — but the atmosphere is electric. There’s something powerful about moving together through this Arctic landscape, each person finding their own pace and rhythm.
A heated Arctic tent checkpoint with fire stove and hot water provides warmth and support along the route. Our experienced team is on hand throughout, ensuring encouragement and safety from start to finish.
Crossing the finish line is a moment you won’t forget — faces frosty, spirits high and a deep sense of achievement earned in true winter conditions.
After the challenge, the finish is at the Peurakaltiokahvila Lumberjack Cabin for: hot food, warm layers and, of course, sauna.
Included
Checkpoint: Arctic tent with fire stove and hot water
Accommodation: Peurakaltiokahvila Lumberjack Cabins (dorm-style bunk rooms)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Stage 3: Back-Country Skiing Through Lapland
Wake to the stillness of the Arctic and fuel up with breakfast before stepping into a sport born in Scandinavia: back-country skiing.
Your Finnish Guides will walk you through the basics — quite literally — before you clip in and glide straight out from Peurakaltiokahvila Lumberjack Cabins. There’s something special about beginning your ski day from the heart of the wilderness. No queues. No lifts. Just snow and silence.
Back-country skiing is beginner friendly and hugely satisfying. The wide skis give stability in soft powder, allowing you to move steadily across frozen lakes, rolling forest trails and open tundra.
Midway, you’ll pause for lunch inside a traditional kota — a wooden hut rooted in the nomadic tent structures of the Sámi people. Inside, a central fire crackles, offering warmth and a place to gather, cook and share this mornings journey.
Weather dependent, there may be the opportunity to visit a sacred Sámi sieidi — a striking 30-metre rock formation rising above the shore of a frozen lake. These natural landmarks held spiritual significance for the indigenous Sámi people and add depth to your understanding of Lapland’s cultural heritage.
As confidence builds, you’ll venture further into the forest, carving gentle tracks through soft snow before returning to your lumberjack cabin in the afternoon.
An arrival snack awaits, followed by a wood-fired sauna. The evening ends with another hearty home-cooked meal, shared in good company after a full day in the Arctic wild.
Included
Kit: Arctic suit, snow boots, back-country skis and poles
Accommodation: Peurakaltiokahvila Lumberjack Cabins (dorm-style bunk rooms)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Stage 4: Husky Sledding in the Foothills of Pallas
Today is pure Arctic magic.
Layered in wool base layers, insulated suits, mittens and balaclavas, you head into the foothills of Pallas where temperatures can plunge below –30°C. The air is sharp and bright — but this is prime time for the huskies.
After a thorough safety briefing, the excitement builds quickly. The dogs bark and leap with anticipation, born and bred for these conditions. Once the brake is released, they surge forward with focus and joy, pulling you into the frozen wilderness.
In pairs, one person stands steady on the runners, hands firm on the handlebar and foot poised on the brake, while the other sits wrapped warmly to experience the thrill of the journey. Midway, you’ll swap roles — both experiencing the power of driving your own team.
The 20km route follows snow-packed trails through silent forests and open meadows, the low Arctic sun casting golden light across glittering snowfields. It feels wild, peaceful and exhilarating all at once.
Back at base, you’ll spend time with the dogs, learning about their training and daily life. After a steaming hot berry drink with biscuits it’s time to transfer to your final lumberjack cabin.
On arrival the fireplaces crackle and the sauna warms once more. There may even be time for a traditional snow roll before gathering for a hearty meal — stories flowing as freely as the heat from the stove.
Included
Kit: Arctic suit, snow boots, husky sled equipment
Accommodation: Peurakaltiokahvila Lumberjack Cabins (dorm-style bunk rooms)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Stage 5: Fatbike Finale Across the Arctic
Your final stage begins beneath crisp blue skies, the snow sparkling on every branch.
Today you take on fat tyre biking through pristine meadows and forest trails — wide tyres designed to grip and glide across packed snow. The challenge begins with what locals might describe as a “little uphill”. In Arctic terms, that means legs warming quickly and, for some, the occasional gentle tumble into soft powder.
After the first stretch, a hot drink at a wilderness café feels exceptionally well earned.
From here, the route divides into short and long options, allowing you to choose your final push. Groomed trails roll through forest and open terrain, with flowing downhill sections bringing wind to your face and wide smiles all round.
You regroup at Solmu Café, marking the official completion of the Finland Arctic Challenge with hot chocolate — or perhaps a celebratory beer.
From there, you transfer to the ski resort town of Levi for hot showers and a well-deserved Finnish feast at Ravintola Ämmilä. It’s a fitting end to an extraordinary week in Europe’s last true wilderness — five stages complete, 100km covered and an Arctic challenge conquered.
Included
Kit: Fat bikes and cycling helmets
Accommodation: hotel (twin share rooms)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and celebratory dinner
Goodbye Lapland
After a final hearty Lappish breakfast, it’s time to begin your journey home.
You can take the local shuttle bus to Kittilä Airport for your onward flight, leaving Levi with tired legs, a clear head and a deep sense of achievement. Over the past week you’ve crossed frozen forests, climbed fells, skied, biked, snowshoed and driven your own husky team — 200 kilometres above the Arctic Circle.
You return home with new skills, a greater understanding of Lapland’s culture and wilderness, strong team bonds and stories that will stay with you long after the snow has melted.
If you’re not quite ready to leave, you’re very welcome to extend your stay. Levi offers excellent skiing and snowboarding, with rental equipment available just a short walk from the hotel, along with winter trails, cafés and the chance for one final sauna.
Included
Meals: Breakfast only
Itinerary changes
Our itineraries are reviewed and refined throughout the year to reflect feedback, seasonal variations and the evolving conditions in each destination.
Once you’re booked, your full travel details will be available via your personalised travel app. This is your most up-to-date source of information and may differ slightly from the itinerary originally viewed at the time of booking. Please ensure you review the app carefully prior to travel.
In the Arctic, flexibility is essential. Weather conditions, snowfall, temperature fluctuations, transport schedules and other local factors may require adjustments once in Finland. The order or timing of activities may vary to ensure both safety and the best possible experience in current conditions.
Your Finnish Guides will keep you informed throughout the trip. All decisions are made with your safety and wellbeing as the priority, closely followed by delivering the strongest experience possible in that moment. We ask that you respect and trust their judgement.
Optional activities
If you choose to extend your stay in Levi, a range of optional winter activities may be available, subject to availability and seasonal conditions. Some operate on a join-in basis.
It may not be possible to participate in every activity within the time available, so we recommend considering your priorities in advance. Once booked, please let us know if there is something specific you would like to arrange.
For any medium or higher-risk activities, we work only with local operators whose safety standards and credentials have been carefully reviewed. While alternatives may appear available locally, we cannot guarantee the safety or quality of operators not assessed by us.
Activities not listed by Adventurous Ewe have not been vetted, and our team cannot assist with organising them. Any participation in unlisted activities is entirely at your own discretion and risk.
Because this is not just a winter race. It’s full immersion in Arctic life.
The Finland Arctic Challenge takes you 200 kilometres above the Arctic Circle into Pallas–Ylläs National Park — a place of vast tundra, frozen forests and fells that rise above the tree line into open wilderness. This is Europe’s last great wild space, where winter is not a season but a way of life.
Here, you don’t simply pass through — you participate.
You snowshoe, ski and fatbike across terrain locals move through daily. You drive your own husky team across silent trails. You warm yourself the Finnish way — wood-fired sauna first, ice dip second. You eat hearty Nordic food designed for long days in the cold. You sleep in traditional lumberjack cabins where stories are shared around the fire.
This challenge blends endurance with culture. The Ice Marathon or Half Marathon is officially timed, adding structure and purpose. The other stages demand stamina and resilience — but they are accessible, supported and achievable with the right preparation. No specialist skills are required. Just commitment, curiosity and a willingness to embrace the cold.
Evenings are as memorable as the days. Crackling fireplaces. Snow underfoot. The possibility of Northern Lights overhead. Conversations that only happen when people step outside their comfort zone together.
You leave stronger, colder-weather confident and deeply proud — but you also leave with a greater understanding of Finnish life and the rhythms of the Arctic.
This is not about racing through a destination.
It’s about living it.
Once you’ve booked your place on the Finland Arctic Challenge, everything you need will be delivered through our personalised mobile travel app.
From your full itinerary and countdown clock to live updates, contact details, weather forecasts, “know before you go” guidance and detailed kit lists — it’s all available at your fingertips, 24 hours a day. No printing, no bulky documents to carry, and no unnecessary paper use. Simple, streamlined and better for the environment.
In the lead-up to departure, you’ll also be invited to join pre-trip online information sessions, where our local Finnish team will talk you through what to expect, how to prepare and how to train effectively for Arctic conditions. You’ll receive practical tips on clothing systems, pacing in the cold, fuelling properly and embracing winter with confidence.
By the time you arrive in Lapland, you’ll feel informed, prepared and ready to step into the snow.
Preparing for an Arctic multi-sport challenge can feel big — and that’s exactly why you won’t be doing it alone.
Having completed the Finland Arctic Challenge herself in 2026, AE’s Sue is perfectly placed to guide you through every stage of your preparation. She knows what the cold really feels like, how the stages flow, what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to kit, layering, pacing and mindset — and how incredible it feels to cross that final finish line.
From your first training questions to last-minute packing checks, Sue is on hand to offer honest, practical advice. No question is too small. Whether you’re unsure about winter gloves, wondering how to train for snow conditions, or simply want reassurance before you travel, you’ll have direct access to someone who’s stood exactly where you’re about to stand — 200 kilometres above the Arctic Circle.
You’ll also receive guidance on:
• Training structure and building stamina for multi-day efforts
• Managing energy and recovery in cold environments
• Clothing systems for temperatures below –20°C
• Mindset tips for long days in snow and sub-zero conditions
• What to realistically expect from each stage.
This is more than just support. It’s personal experience shared openly — so you arrive in Lapland confident, capable and ready to embrace the challenge.
Flights & Travel to Lapland
Your arrival airport is Kittilä, Finland (KTT), located in the heart of Finnish Lapland and under an hour from both Ylläs and Levi.
Kittilä is well connected internationally. Most routes operate via Helsinki, Finland’s capital, with regular onward flights to Lapland. Finnair offers strong global connections between Europe and Asia, making travel from further afield straightforward.
There are also seasonal and direct routes into Kittilä from several European cities, including London Gatwick and Manchester (EasyJet), Düsseldorf (Eurowings), Munich (Lufthansa), Paris (Air France), Riga (Air Baltic), Vienna (Austrian Airlines) and Zurich (Edelweiss).
For those travelling from Asia, Finnair operates an evening direct service from Hong Kong to Helsinki, with a convenient onward morning connection to Kittilä.
We recommend booking flights early to secure the best fares.
If you would prefer not to book independently, we can provide recommended flight options — or you may book through our ATOL and ABTA protected flight agent at their respective cost.
Airport Transfers
Travel between Kittilä Airport and your start/finish hotel locations is simple and efficient via the local shuttle bus service.
Tickets can be booked online through Matkahuolto:
https://www.matkahuolto.fi/en
Approximate transfer times:
• Kittilä Airport to Ylläs – around 1 hour
• Levi to Kittilä Airport (after your challenge finishes) – around 15 minutes
Full guidance on recommended shuttle timings will be provided once your place is confirmed.
Alternative option: rail
You can also travel by train, taking the overnight service from Helsinki to Kolari in Lapland. This is a comfortable and scenic option if you wish to extend your time in Finland before or after the challenge.
Full arrival details will be shared in your personalised travel app once booked.
All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 3 months beyond the intended length of stay.
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Finland. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination, including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need….
- Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/finland
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/finland
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/finland/entry-requirements
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Finland.html
Travel Insurance is an important part of any booking. It is compulsory that everyone who travels with us has taken out adequate travel insurance which includes, among other things, cover for the full value of your trip, medical (emergency, evacuation and repatriation) arrangements, winter activities undertaken, personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects and pandemic travel cover.
For UK residents we have partnered with Campbell & Irvine Direct to provide you with a travel insurance. If you would like to obtain cover for your trip please feel free to contact specialist Insurance Brokers, Campbell Irvine Direct for a quote.
You must send your Travel Insurance Policy to Adventurous Ewe no less than one month prior to departure.
Vaccinations
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies (bat lyssavirus) and tick-borne encephalitis. For the most up to date info on vaccinations, please consult with your GP or travel healthcare practitioner 8 weeks in advance of travel. For more info, feel free to visit https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations.
Allergies
If you have a severe allergy please inform us at the time of booking. We will do all we can to help, but unfortunately we are unable to guarantee an allergy free environment on this trip. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as ‘adrenaline auto-injectors’ are not carried as standard by AE leaders and crew. Whilst your leader is aware of our trekkers medical history, please also inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.
Your Finnish Guide and support team are central to this experience.
The Arctic Challenge is delivered by a 100% local Finnish team with over a decade of experience organising and overseeing demanding sporting events — from global ultramarathons and multi-stage races to winter expeditions in extreme Arctic conditions.
They know this terrain intimately. They understand how weather systems move across the fells, how snow conditions change throughout the day and how to manage groups safely in sub-zero environments.
All guides are expertly trained, bilingual and qualified in First Aid and/or Wilderness First Response. Their role is not only logistical — it is protective, supportive and deeply personal. They are responsible for the safety, wellbeing and enjoyment of every participant from start to finish.
Beyond qualifications, what truly sets them apart is their passion. They live here. They ski here. They raise families here. They have stories of the lumberjack trails, Sámi heritage, winter survival and Arctic life that bring real depth to your journey.
Arctic conditions demand flexibility. On rare occasions, weather or local conditions may require adjustments to the itinerary. If this happens, your guide will clearly communicate the reasons and offer a suitable alternative — always prioritising safety first, followed closely by delivering the strongest experience possible in that moment.
In the wilderness of Lapland, experience matters. And you are in highly capable hands.
We believe Arctic adventures are best experienced in small, committed teams.
Travelling in a smaller group minimises our environmental footprint, strengthens safety and support in extreme conditions, and creates a more connected and authentic experience in the wilderness.
The minimum group size to run the Finland Arctic Challenge is 18 participants.
The maximum group size is 25 participants.
This ensures the right balance between team spirit and individual attention, particularly across multi-day stages in sub-zero conditions.
You’re very welcome to join as a solo traveller, with friends, family or colleagues. Many participants arrive independently and leave with strong Arctic bonds formed through shared challenge.
You may also choose to take part as a fundraiser for a charity close to your heart — the structure of the event lends itself well to purposeful participation.
If you have a group of 15 or more, we would be delighted to design a tailor-made Arctic Challenge for your team, charity or company.
To discuss a private departure or bespoke version of this challenge, please contact us at info@adventurousewe.co.uk or call 01492 588 069.
The Finland Arctic Challenge is graded as Tough.
This reflects five consecutive days of multi-sport activity in true Arctic conditions. You will be snowshoeing, back-country skiing, fatbiking and completing an ice marathon or half marathon in temperatures that can drop well below –20°C. Cold adds a layer of intensity — and that’s part of the experience.
You do not need prior snowshoeing, back-country skiing or fat-biking experience. Full instruction is provided, and the equipment is designed to be accessible to beginners. However, you should be a confident walker with a solid level of fitness and the stamina to sustain 6–7 hours of activity per day while carrying a daypack.
Preparation is essential. This is not about speed — it’s about resilience across multiple days in winter terrain. A strong aerobic base, good endurance and steady determination will allow you to enjoy the challenge rather than simply endure it.
To support you, we provide a structured training programme to guide your preparation in the months leading up to departure. With the right training and mindset, you will arrive in Lapland ready to embrace the experience fully.
An Arctic all-in-one suit and snow boots are provided. Please ensure you also bring appropriate layered clothing for extreme weather conditions.
A full, detailed kit list is provided once you’re booked, along with an exclusive Adventurous Ewe discount code for independent outdoor retailer Crib Goch Outdoor.
Specialist Arctic equipment is supplied for the challenge, including:
• Arctic all-in-one winter suit
• Snow boots
• Snowshoes
• Back-country skis and poles
All equipment is allocated based on your size, and full instruction is given before each activity. No previous snowshoeing or skiing experience is required — you’ll have time to learn, practise and build confidence as the week unfolds.
That said, what you wear underneath matters.
Top Tips for Arctic Conditions
Layer properly
Dress in breathable layers, ideally merino wool base layers. Avoid cotton. Layering allows you to regulate temperature as you move.
Hands, head and eyes
Bring quality gloves or mittens (Alpine or mountaineering grade), merino winter hiking socks, a warm beanie that covers your ears and UV-protective sunglasses AND goggles — snow glare in Arctic sunlight is intense.
Waterproof protection
A hooded waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers (Gore-Tex or similar) are essential for wind and snow protection.
Boots matter
Insulated, waterproof winter boots with good ankle support and thick soles are ideal (for example, Salomon Toundra Pro or The North Face Chillkat). Snow boots are also provided, but if bringing your own, ensure they are 1–2 sizes larger than normal. You need space for thick wool socks and, crucially, air circulation. In –20°C or colder, tight boots mean cold feet very quickly.
Train in your kit
Practise walking with your daypack loaded. Make sure everything fits comfortably and performs well before you travel.
Pack smart
Know where key items are stored — down jacket for breaks, snacks, water, medication, sunscreen (SPF 50), lip balm and small first aid items should be easy to access. Use dry bags inside your luggage to keep kit organised and protected.
Protect your feet
Blister prevention is essential. Break boots in properly and bring any preferred foot care products.
Bring a thermos
A quality thermos bottle that keeps liquids hot for up to eight hours is highly recommended. A hot drink mid-stage makes a real difference in Arctic temperatures.
If you have any questions about kit or suitability, just ask. We’d far rather help you prepare properly than see you overpack — or under-prepare — for this challenge.
The land of 3 winters
Did you know that there is not just one but three winters in Lapland! The first is the snow period (Oct-Nov), then the Polar Night (Dec-Jan) and finally the Snow-crust-season (Feb-April/May). Depending what type of scenery and weather you want to experience, the choice of timing is important. The time from December to February is stunningly different but also much colder. This is the best time to experience Arctic conditions with temperatures from -10C° to -30C°. But don’t worry – with exercise and warm clothing combined, you will stay warm. Arctic clothing provided, with insulated boots, woolly hat and large mittens, -20C (-4F) can feel rather pleasant. March – April is much milder with warmer days and day temperatures from approx. -5C° to +5C° and a lot of sun from early morning till late evening! Snow is more hard packed and you’ll get to enjoy a lot of light. This is an ideal time for long cross-country ski trips.
Cold weather
If the thought of cold weather sends shivers down your spine, a rule of thumb is the colder, the more beautiful. Don’t be afraid of the cold – Finnish houses and transport are always warm and when outside, the Arctic clothing provided will keep you snug plus staying active helps keep you warm.
Daylight hours
At extreme latitudes, the days shorten and lengthen much faster. So while in mid-winter (December/January) the sun remains just below the horizon, by April there are more daylight hours than in the UK, and the midnight sun is only weeks away. Even in midwinter, it is not dark, as the sun is just above the horizon and there is plenty of light reflected off the snow.
During your winter wilderness adventure you will be spending 2 nights in a locally owned traditional Lapland style hotel in twin room share basis. If you wish to have a single room, please let us know as early as possible so we can arrange this for you. There will be a single room supplement for this.
The other 4 nights you will be staying in 2 – 3 traditional lumberjack cabins in a dorm room share basis. There is a wood-fired sauna in these cabins which is the perfect way to end the day in the winter wilderness. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag for the cabins. These can be hired if needed.
Accommodation – share and save basis
Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite. If you wish to book a single room at the hotel, please let us know well in advance by emailing us at info@adventurousewe.co.uk. Single rooms are not available in the lumberjack cabins.
Occasional alternative accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
All meals are included as listed in your itinerary. Typical meals include:
Breakfast: Porridge or cereal with dried fruit, tea & coffee
Lunch: You will either pre-make your own packed lunch prior to setting off each day or stop by a kota / wilderness cafe.
Dinner: Hearty homecooked meals.
You will also have the opportunity to eat traditional Sámi cuisine, reindeer meat with lots of butter. Plus you can sample other Lappish meals at the hotel.
A celebratory dinner is included on your final night.
Water will be supplied from the ice wells; you will need to bring your own wide-mouthed water bottle for this and also a flask to take hot drinks.
Dietary requirements
Please let us know well in advance of any dietary requirements. It is worth noting that vegetarians may find the menu selection less varied than they would see at home. Vegetarianism is not as common in this region and generally the choices are basic, involving vegetables, soups, salads, bread, cheese, fruit, yoghurt, eggs etc. Vegans and those on gluten-free diets may find this region very challenging and may need to supplement meals with their own supplies from supermarkets and markets. Wherever possible we will cater for dietary needs for any included meals, but there may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own.
The impact of single use plastic is having on our landscape, wildlife and oceans, it is now more important than ever that we all make changes in order to help our planet. We may not be a huge global company but we’re passionate about playing our part and trying to make a huge difference collectively. Together we can dramatically reduce our consumption of single use plastics and support our responsible travel ethos of ‘Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but boot-prints, keep nothing but memories.’
You can make a difference too with taking part in this winter wilderness adventure. As part of our commitment to helping the planet, members of the flock you join us for this trip, you will receive a free Adventurous Ewe Water-to-Go bottle. This is our way of saying thank-ewe and also making a difference to the consumption of single use plastics in developing countries. For more info please click here or email us at info@adventurousewe.co.uk for more info.
Remaining balance: £2600 per person is due for payment no later than 5 weeks prior to the trip start date.
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For the latest info regarding booking and travelling with Adventurous Ewe, please visit our website.
Fundraising
You’re welcome to fundraise for a charity of your choice if you wish to do so. All sponsorship monies are to be sent directly to your chosen charity.
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Everyone has the right to feel safe when they travel. We don’t tolerate any form of violence (verbal or physical) or sexual harassment, either between customers or involving our leaders, partners or local people.
Use or possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. If you choose to consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect that you’ll abide by the local laws regarding alcohol consumption.
The sex tourism industry is known to exploit vulnerable people and have negative consequences on communities, including undermining the development of sustainable tourism. For this reason, patronising sex workers will not be tolerated on our trips.
By travelling with us you are agreeing to adhere to these rules. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our Responsible Travel Guidelines.
The decision of your Local Finnish Guide is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a Local Guide, or interfere with the well-being or mobility of the group, your Local Guide may direct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund. We may also elect not to carry you on any future trips booked.
If you feel that someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your Local Guide or Adventurous Ewe host immediately. Alternatively, contact us on +44(0)7747 346 588.
Small group travel
We pride ourselves in small group trips to minimise the impact on the environment, to maximise your safety & well-being and to make your experience more authentic.
As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group – patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone’s travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don’t keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well – this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure however you will have the opportunity to join a WhatsApp group so you can ‘meet & chat’ to your fellow travellers prior to departure.
Solo travellers
The beauty of our style of travel is that it caters to travellers who are travelling solo and who want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people.
On our trips rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports.
As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.
We also have an optional single supplement available on trip for the 2 hotel nights for travellers who prefer to have their own room. Please note that this only applies to accommodation in the hotel and not the lumberjack cabins as private rooms are not available. The lumberjack cabin accommodation is an open gender, multi-share basis.
The land of 3 winters
Did you know that there is not just one but three winters in Lapland! The first is the snow period (Oct-Nov), then the Polar Night (Dec-Jan) and finally the Snow-crust-season (Feb-April/May). Depending what type of scenery and weather you want to experience, the choice of timing is important. The time from December to February is stunningly different but also much colder. This is the best time to experience Arctic conditions with temperatures from -10C° to -30C°. But don’t worry – with exercise and warm clothing combined, you will stay warm. Arctic clothing provided, with insulated boots, woolly hat and large mittens, -20C (-4F) can feel rather pleasant. March – April is much milder with warmer days and day temperatures from approx. -5C° to +5C° and a lot of sun from early morning till late evening! Snow is more hard packed and you’ll get to enjoy a lot of light. This is an ideal time for long cross-country ski trips.
Cold weather
If the thought of cold weather sends shivers down your spine, a rule of thumb is the colder, the more beautiful. Don’t be afraid of the cold – Finnish houses and transport are always warm and when outside, the Arctic clothing provided will keep you snug plus staying active helps keep you warm.
Daylight hours
At extreme latitudes, the days shorten and lengthen much faster. So while in mid-winter (December/January) the sun remains just below the horizon, by April there are more daylight hours than in the UK, and the midnight sun is only weeks away. Even in midwinter, it is not dark, as the sun is just above the horizon and there is plenty of light reflected off the snow.
Northern Lights (also known as aurora borealis or polar light)
Northern Lights may appear close to Earth but they actually form at altitudes of over 100kms, when solar winds made of particles from the sun agitate atmospheric gases. Northern lights are best spotted during winter when it’s dark and the weather is clear. Therefore the cold Polar Night season is generally the best time to witness the vast skies alive with this dancing phenomenon. We can’t promise that you will see this beautiful display but the longer you stay, the greater your chances to experience them.
Sauna
A traditional part of Finnish culture, a sauna is the most relaxing way to end your day. Your Finnish Guide will teach you how to heat up a wood burn sauna as well as the many traditions around it.
Ice swimming
Did you know that the biggest fans of ice swimming are elderly people in Finland? So there’s no excuse to give this a try. There is a Finnish dress code: woolly hat and woollen socks make walking through the snow more comfortable and a swimsuit is optional 😊
Arctic wildlife
Reindeer, Siberian Jay, wood grouse, willow grouse, are just some of the wildlife that you can encounter in Lapland. You will get to recognise their tracks and perhaps be lucky enough to catch glimpses of them too.
The largest wilderness area in Europe
Lapland is the beating heart of the Arctic area and home to Europe’s largest unspoiled wilderness.
Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. Our Guides, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel.
Please feel free to take a look at our Responsible Travel Policy.
Adventurous Ewe acknowledges Finland’s Indigenous Sámi people as the traditional owners of Finnish Lapland and recognise their important connection to the land. The Sámi people are known for their colourful cultural heritage and semi-nomadic reindeer herding. There are currently around 10,000 Sami living in Finland, with an autonomous Sami parliament tasked with preserving their endangered language and culture.
| Departure & Return | Duration | Availability | Deposit | Total Cost* | (*Total cost includes the deposit) |
| Feb 07, 2027 Feb 13, 2027 |
7 Days | Available | £1350.00 | £3950.00 | Book Now |
What's Included?
Pre-trip:
- Pre-trip online info sessions and tips on preparation from the local team
- Discount on personal kit from local independent retailer
- Trip info supplied via our free travel app
- Public liability insurance
- Financial Protection for your booking
- Risk assessment and emergency management planning
- Free Adventurous Ewe Water-to-Go Bottle
During your trip:
- All transport within Finland during the challenge, including transfers to the start line and from the finish back to the host town
- Sporting equipment for every stage — snowshoes, back-country skis, fatbikes and specialist kit
- Husky dog sledding experience through pristine Arctic wilderness
- Accommodation throughout:
– Traditional timber lumberjack cabins and heated wilderness shelters during the expedition
– One night pre-event and one night post-event in a comfortable hotel (twin share basis) - All meals during the week, with hearty Finnish dishes designed to fuel long days in the snow
- Evening recovery experiences including wood-fired sauna, ice dips and Northern Lights spotting
- Warm winter boots for activities and an insulated winter suit for evenings outdoors
- Celebration party at the end of the challenge
- Finland Arctic Challenge souvenir jacket and a traditional kuksa wooden cup
- Official event photography so you can relive the adventure long after the snow has melted
From the moment you arrive in Lapland to your final celebration in Levi, the logistics are handled — allowing you to focus fully on the challenge and the experience.
What's Not Included?
Currently not included but can be organised at an additional cost
- Return international flights from your home destination to Kittilä Airport
- Any overnight accommodation or transfers required during flight times / stopovers / extensions
- Option to extend your trip
Items not included
- Travel insurance (mandatory). Click here for a quote through Campbell & Irvine Direct
- Return flights to Kittilä Airport (KTT)
- Clothing and equipment as detailed on your Kit List
- Any personal snacks, electrolytes and medication
- Personal spending money
- Additional excursions outside the itinerary
- Tips for local crew
- Other items not listed on your itinerary
- Any expenses incurred with leaving the trip early ie. hotel accommodation or change of flight costs, etc.
SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
In Finnish Lapland, nature isn’t a backdrop — it’s a way of life. On this Arctic Challenge, you step into that rhythm. You move as locals move. You warm up as they warm up. You eat what they eat. You sleep in hand-built timber cabins and gather around firelight after long days in the snow.
This is not just a winter challenge. It’s cultural immersion in its purest form.
As a family-run adventure company and proud Travelife Partner, Adventurous Ewe delivers every trip with care — for the people who host us, the landscapes we travel through and the communities we support. Our ethos is simple: Big Adventures, Small Footprint.
How we travel responsibly in Finnish Lapland
- Local knowledge, local leadership
Your challenge is led and supported by experienced, qualified local guides, drivers and crew who know this terrain intimately. By working with a trusted Finnish team, your adventure directly supports local livelihoods and rural communities in Lapland. - Traditional, locally owned accommodation
You stay in authentic lumberjack cabins — simple, warm and full of character. These locally owned properties reflect the region’s heritage and ensure your visit benefits the local economy directly. - Immersion in Finnish culture
You experience daily life as it’s genuinely lived here — wood-fired saunas, ice dips, hearty Finnish food, time outdoors regardless of temperature. These are not staged experiences; they are woven into everyday Arctic life. - Low-waste living in remote environments
Each participant receives a traditional Finnish kuksa (wooden cup) for hot drink refills in the cabins and huts, reducing disposable waste. Water usage in cabins is carefully managed, and shared spaces are respected in line with Finnish sustainability practices. - Leave No Trace principles
The Arctic environment is both resilient and fragile. We operate with a strict Leave No Trace ethos — taking only memories, leaving only footprints and tracks — and we expect every team member to do the same. - Climate action beyond the trail
As part of our long-standing partnership, Adventurous Ewe makes a financial contribution to Cool Earth, supporting rainforest communities in protecting vital ecosystems worldwide.
How you can travel more sustainably on this trip
- Bring a reusable bottle
Your Adventurous Ewe Water-to-Go bottle is ideal for this adventure. Refill, reuse and reduce plastic waste wherever possible. - Minimise packaging before you travel
Remove excess packaging from snacks, kit and new clothing before you leave home. Dispose of and recycle responsibly in your own country. - Respect remote places
Recycle wherever possible. The lumberjacks cabins separate their recycling, so please make sure you do this too. - Travel with awareness
Take time to understand Finnish culture — its deep respect for silence, nature and community. A little awareness goes a long way in fostering meaningful connection.
Together, we can protect these vast snowy forests, frozen lakes and dark Arctic skies — so they remain wild and welcoming for generations to come.
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