By Janeen Christoff, TravelPulse
Discover the Beauty of Arctic Europe
As the temperatures drop in Arctic Europe, adrenaline levels start to rise. That’s because while instinct might be to head indoors, visitors to Norway, Finland and Sweden in the winter will find that, outdoors, adventure awaits. From saunas and swimming to the Northern Lights and snuggling huskies, here are 10 reasons to get outside up north this winter.
Gammelstad UNESCO World Heritage Site
Gammelstad Church Town in Lulea, Sweden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of these widespread communities that were scattered around Northern Scandinavia. At its heart is the Nederlulea Church, surrounded by more than 400 wooden houses used on Sundays by the local community who would travel many miles to attend worship services and religious festivals. Today, visitors can stroll through the historic town and stop in for lunch or the visitor’s center for a guided tour.
Is This the Worldâs 'Coolest' Concert?
In Lulea, Sweden, visitors have the rare opportunity to see a band play instruments that are made from ice. From guitars and violins to an ice xylophone, the music that comes from these instruments is particularly gorgeous.
Ride on an Icebreaker
Board the Icebreaker Sampo in Kemi, Finland for a one-of-a-kind journey through the icy sea. Guests can even don survival suits and walk and float out in the water.
Stay in an Ice Hotel
There are several ice castles throughout Arctic Europe where visitors can feel what’s it’s really like to sleep on a block of ice. The LummiLina Ice Castle and the Lapland Hotel Snow Village are two examples of icy wonderlands that welcome overnight guests.
Ride With Reindeer
Reindeer are found throughout the Arctic region and sleigh rides pulled by reindeer are a traditional way to travel around Lapland in the winter.
Ski Lapland
There are around 75 ski resorts around Lapland, the largest of which are found in Levi, Yllas, Pyha-Luosto and Ruka. There is everything from kids programs to backcountry exploring on hills that rise between 500 and 700 meters above sea level and trails that are as much as 3 kilometers long.
Sled Dog Rides
One of the activities that is most commonly associated with Arctic winter is sled dog rides and there are numerous opportunities to meet and greet husky puppies, enjoy a short ride or even embark on a sledding safari.
Snowmobiling Trails
Sled dog and reindeer rides are exhilarating but visitors to Arctic Europe who really want to get their adrenaline pumping should head out on a snowmobile. Vast networks of trails criss-cross the region as snowmobiles play an important role in winter transportation.
Arctic Swimming
Ready, set, jump into the Arctic Ocean. It might sound a bit chilly but it’s awesome for bragging rights. Travelers to Lyngen should visit Arctic Swimming & Sauna. Warm up in the sauna and then jump into the Arctic Ocean for a one-of-a-kind opportunity.
Northern Lights
One of the biggest draws to the Arctic region in the winter is the promise of the Northern Lights. While weather and timing can play a big part in whether or not visitors see them, if you give yourself about a week, you’ll have the best chance to catch a glimpse.
See more at: TravelPulse
