Rovaniemi – action in the snow
Hier ist nicht nur Santa Claus in Action: Nordlichter, gefrorene Gletscher und dazu noch ein Skigebiet – in und um Lapplands Hauptstadt Rovaniemi gibt es jede Menge zu erleben.
Bright eyes: Northern Lights
See the Northern Lights – many travellers have this on their personal bucket list. The lights arise when electrically charged particles of the solar wind strike the upper layers of the earth’s atmosphere and stimulate the air molecules there to create the luminous light show. In the Finnish city 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 exciting place for this is what is known as the Aurora Cabin – a transparent glass igloo offered by different hotels.
Real Ice Age: the Korouoma Canyon Waterfalls
Frozen waterfalls? Yes, they actually exist. One and a half hours’ drive from Rovaniemi, the Korouoma Canyon Waterfalls are located in the vast Corouoma Gorge. Although the water only freezes to ice at winter temperatures, the 30 kilometre-long and 130 metre-deep nature reserve is a worthwhile destination for a tour all year round. Hiking enthusiasts are lucky enough to meet lynx, reindeer or arctic hares on their excursions and can marvel at waterfalls, rapids and cliffs in the breath-taking landscape.
Fun in Angry Birds Park
It’s all about exercise: At the Angry Birds Park, a 10-minute walk from Rovaniemi city centre, children – and, of course, adults – can run, climb, swing, slip and slackline to their heart’s content. All of course under the critical eyes of numerous colourful Angry Birds characters. Admission is free and the park is open all year round.
Rare beauty: the Rovaniemi Church
Would you like some peace and tranquillity in all the commotion of (winter) activities? Then visit the Rovaniemi Church. The church, designed by Finnish architect Bertil Liljequist, is almost 75 years old – the original church, built in 1817, was burnt down by the Nazis. The interior was designed by artist Antti Salmenlinna, where an impressive altar fresco entitled “The Source of Life” and an impressive organ with 45 keys await. The church often hosts concerts with mostly classical but not just sacral music.
Wide view from the Ounasvaara hill
Rovaniemi can also be seen from a bird’s eye perspective: a little east of the 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. Top tip: 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: Arktikum
The Arktikum is not only the science centre of the University of Lapland, but also a large museum where those interested can find out more about the frosty and exciting world of the Arctic. The history, nature and culture of the North are explained in permanent exhibitions. In addition, Arktikum provides plenty of facts and stories about one of the greatest experiences of any Rovaniemi trip: the Northern Lights. Don’t miss a visit to the neighbouring park where amazing plants and trees that love Finland’s harsh and cold climate grow.
High up: the Ounasvaara ski area
What would holidays in the far north be without a small ski area? This is of course also possible in Rovaniemi, namely 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 215 metres high. There are also illuminated cross-country ski trails and a toboggan run there. There is also a fun park and an extra “children’s land” for kids.
Testing your patience: Ice fishing
Drive a snow scooter to a frozen lake, break a hole in the thick ice there and then hope that fishing brings you luck. If you dream of this adventure, then an ice fishing trip is recommended. Various trip organisers offer the traditional activity in winter (December to March) amidst the quiet in the wild. And those who succeed, reap the rewards immediately: the catch can be freshly prepared on the riverbanks.
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