Lakeside Sauna Trip with Ice Fishing and Ice Swimming

Lakeside Sauna Trip with Ice Fishing and Ice Swimming: A Deep Dive into Arctic Relaxation

If you’re visiting Rovaniemi and craving more than just the usual tourist sights, this Lakeside Sauna Trip with Ice Fishing and Ice Swimming offers a refreshing mix of Finnish traditions and Arctic outdoor fun. Priced at around $196, the tour lasts roughly 5 to 6 hours, making it a decent half-day escape. Your guide, who speaks English and other languages upon request, will pick you up from your accommodation within 15 kilometers of the city center—no need to worry about transportation logistics.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to relax in a traditional lakeside sauna, then step outside to ice swim or try ice fishing, which are quintessential Nordic activities. Second, the guide’s attentiveness shines through in thoughtful touches—like providing winter clothes, equipment, and even cooking a Lappish lunch over the campfire. We also appreciate that the trip is designed to be stress-free, with all gear supplied and options for vegetarian or vegan meals.

However, a potential consideration is the short duration of some activities, particularly the sauna itself, which lasts about an hour. Some reviewers felt it was too brief, especially given the price paid, and the sauna space might be a bit tight during peak times. That said, if you’re seeking a genuine, authentic Finnish experience combined with outdoor adventure, this tour is well worth it. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor winter activities but also value comfort and guided expertise—perfect for first-timers looking for a taste of Arctic life.

Key Points

• Authentic Finnish Experience: Combines sauna, ice fishing, and ice swimming into one day.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Winter clothes, equipment, and a hearty Lappish lunch included.
• Perfect for Relaxation: Offers a peaceful escape with stunning winter scenery.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides make the experience accessible and memorable.
• Short but Memorable: Activities are brief but authentic; be prepared for a quick dip in the lake.
• Great for Beginners: Suitable for travelers new to Arctic outdoor activities and sauna culture.

The Complete Review: What to Expect from the Lakeside Sauna Trip

Starting Point and Arrival

Your day begins around 9:30 am at Maakuntakatu 29 in Rovaniemi. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation within a 15 km radius. This convenience saves you the hassle of navigating public transport in the winter cold. Once on board, you’ll notice the group size is capped at 16 travelers, striking a balance between intimacy and social fun.

The Journey to Arctic Serenity

The drive out of town takes you into the quiet, unspoiled beauty of Finnish nature. The landscape is a postcard of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes—an ideal setting for the activities ahead. The guide, often friendly and attentive (as one reviewer highlighted Antonella), shares insights about local traditions and the day’s plan, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

The Lakeside Sauna Experience

Arriving at the lakeside, you’ll change into winter gear provided by the tour—overalls, boots, gloves, and slippers—designed to keep you warm during your outdoor activities. The highlight here is the Finnish sauna: a traditional, wood-heated space where you can sweat out your stress. Expect about an hour of relaxation, which some reviewers found too short, but it’s enough to warm you up after the outdoor chill.

In the sauna, you’ll experience the authentic Finnish custom of alternating between heat and cold—though in this case, the cold might be the outdoor lake or a quick ice swim. The space is cozy but might feel cramped during busy times, so don’t expect a spa-like luxury; instead, it’s genuine and authentic.

Ice Swimming and Ice Fishing

After warming up, you’ll head out for ice swimming—a quick dip in the Arctic waters. This activity is optional but highly recommended to fully embrace the Finnish winter way of life. You can rent swimwear for €15 if needed. Many find it invigorating and surprisingly less daunting than expected, especially with the guide’s reassurance.

Next, you’re introduced to ice fishing—a classic Nordic activity. Expect the guide to teach you how to drill a hole in the thick ice and help you set up your fishing line. The experience offers an authentic taste of local life, with quiet moments of waiting and anticipation amid the snow-covered landscape. One traveler noted that the guide made sure vegetarians were catered to during the Lappish barbecue, which adds a thoughtful touch.

The Campfire Lunch and Relaxation

After a successful fishing attempt, everyone gathers around a campfire for lunch. You’ll enjoy Lappish bread, smoked salmon, marshmallows, and hot blueberry juice—with vegetarian or vegan options available. The guide cooks everything on the fire, adding to the rustic charm. Many reviews highlight the welcoming atmosphere, with Gigi or other guides being especially friendly and attentive.

The Return and Final Impressions

The tour ends back at your starting point, typically around 3 or 4 pm. It’s a busy, full day that balances outdoor adventure with culture. The short duration of activities means you’ll want to be prepared for a quick but meaningful experience—something many reviewers appreciated.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the price might seem high for just a few hours, considering all gear and food included, it becomes more reasonable. The guides’ local knowledge, authentic activities, and the chance to see Northern Lights (if lucky) make it worthwhile. The experience is particularly suited for travelers seeking a simple, guided introduction to Finnish winter traditions without the hassle of planning individual activities.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors wanting to sample Finnish sauna and Arctic winter activities in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s also perfect for those wanting a photo-worthy outdoor adventure combined with authentic local cuisine. If you’re a little wary of cold water or outdoor activities, the guide’s attentiveness and included gear make participation accessible.

For travelers who value local culture, comfort, and outdoor serenity, this tour hits the right notes. If you’re after luxury spa experiences or extended outdoor time, you might find this a bit brief, but for a well-organized and authentic taste of Arctic life, it’s a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off are provided within 15 km of Rovaniemi, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

What should I wear?
The tour provides winter clothes, overalls, boots, and gloves, but you’ll need to bring your own swimwear if you plan to do the ice swim (or rent one on site for €15).

How long is the sauna?
The sauna lasts about one hour, which some travelers found a bit brief, but it’s enough to enjoy the traditional experience.

Can I participate if I don’t want to ice swim?
Absolutely. Ice swimming is optional, and you can simply enjoy the sauna, fishing, and lunch.

What about the lunch?
A campfire lunch featuring Lappish bread, salmon, marshmallows, and hot blueberry juice is included. Vegetarian or vegan options are available upon request.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by paying adults, and the experience is suitable for most travelers able to handle cold outdoor activities.

To sum it up, the Lakeside Sauna Trip with Ice Fishing and Ice Swimming offers a genuine taste of Finnish winter traditions, wrapped in guided comfort and scenic beauty. It balances outdoor adventure with cultural authenticity, making it a fantastic choice for those who want to connect with nature, try unique activities, and relax in true Nordic style. Whether you’re after a quick Arctic dip, a lesson in ice fishing, or simply want to unwind in a lakeside sauna, this tour delivers on its promise and leaves you with memorable stories—and maybe a few chilly moments.