Rovaniemi - Action in the snow
It's not just Santa Claus in action here: northern lights, frozen glaciers and a ski resort to boot - there's plenty to experience in and around Lapland's capital Rovaniemi.
Glowing eyes: Northern Lights
Seeing the Northern Lights - many travellers have this on their personal bucket list. The lights are created when electrically charged particles from the solar wind hit the upper layers of the earth's atmosphere and cause the air molecules there to glow. In the Finnish town of Rovaniemi, there is a great opportunity to experience this colourful natural spectacle due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle. The most unusual and probably also the most exciting place to do this is an Aurora Cabin - a transparent glass igloo offered by various hotels.
Real ice age: the Korouma Canyon waterfalls
Frozen waterfalls? Yes, they really do exist. An hour and a half's drive from Rovaniemi are the Korouoma Canyon waterfalls in the mighty Korouoma Gorge. Although the water only freezes to ice in winter temperatures, the 30 kilometre long and 130 metre deep nature reserve is a worthwhile destination for a tour all year round. Hikers may be lucky enough to encounter lynx, reindeer or mountain hares on their excursions and can marvel at waterfalls, rapids and cliffs in the breathtaking landscape.
Fun in the Angry Birds Park
It's all about movement here: At Angry Birds Park, around ten minutes' walk from the centre of Rovaniemi, children - and adults too, of course - can run, climb, swing, slide and slackline for all they're worth. All under the critical gaze of numerous colourful Angry Birds figures, of course. Admission is free and the park is open all year round.
Rare beauty: the Rovaniemi Church
Do you fancy some peace and quiet in all the turbulent (winter) fun? Then visit the Rovaniemi Church. The church, designed by Finnish architect Bertil Liljequist, is barely 75 years old - the original church, built in 1817, was burnt down by the Nazis. The interior was designed by artist Antti Salmenlinna and features an impressive altar fresco entitled ‘The Source of Life’ and an imposing 45-key organ. Concerts are often held in the church, mostly classical, but not only sacred music.
Wide view from the Ounasvaara hill
Rovaniemi can also be seen from a bird's eye view: A little east of the city centre is the Ounasvaara observation tower, which is located on the hill of the same name and offers a fantastic view over the city and the surrounding landscape with all its lakes and forests. Tip: it's best to climb the tower at sunrise or sunset. The observation tower is open 24 hours a day and access is free of charge.
A small expedition: the Arctic
The Arktikum is not only the science centre of the University of Lapland, but also a large museum where interested visitors can find out about the frosty and exciting world of the Arctic. The history, nature and culture of the north are explained in permanent exhibitions. The Arktikum also provides plenty of facts and stories about one of the greatest experiences of any trip to Rovaniemi: the Northern Lights. You should also visit the neighbouring park - amazing plants and trees that love Finland's harsh and cold climate grow there.
Flying high: the Ounasvaara ski resort
What would a holiday in the far north be without a little skiing? This is of course also possible in Rovaniemi, in the Ounasvaara ski area. Six kilometres of slopes and one kilometre of ski routes are available for skiing and snowboarding. Five lifts take you up to an altitude of 215 metres. There are also floodlit cross-country ski trails and a toboggan run. There is also a fun park and an extra ‘Kinderland’ for kids.
Test of patience: ice fishing
Ride a snowmobile to a frozen lake, break a hole in the thick ice and then hope for a lucky catch - if you dream of this adventure, we recommend an ice fishing trip. Various organisers offer this traditional activity in winter (December to March) amidst the silence of the wilderness. And those who are successful are immediately rewarded: the fish caught can be tasted freshly prepared on the shore.
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