Imagine sharing a hearty Lappish pancake dinner beneath a starlit sky, surrounded by the whisper of pine trees and the glow of a campfire. For just $85 per person, you can enjoy a 2-hour experience that combines authentic Finnish cuisine, captivating stories, and a taste of Lapland’s vibrant culture. Led by welcoming local hosts, this tour takes place in a charming garden setting, featuring a traditional lavvo (a Sami tent or tipi), which adds an extra layer of authenticity to your evening.
What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances delicious food with storytelling. The smoked reindeer offers a genuine taste of the region’s culinary heritage, and the homemade berry juice brewed over the fire is a delightful, warming treat. Plus, the stories about the legends surrounding the Northern Lights and midnight sun are both intriguing and informative. The cozy campfire setting makes it easy to relax and truly soak in the atmosphere.
One possible consideration for travelers is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the starting point. However, given the intimate group size (limited to six people), the experience remains personal and engaging. It’s best suited for those who enjoy authentic cultural experiences and are comfortable outdoors in cooler weather, with warm clothing and shoes.
This experience is ideal if you’re seeking a unique, intimate taste of Lapland that combines food, stories, and nature into one memorable evening. It’s especially perfect for curious travelers wanting to learn about Sami traditions and enjoy stunning natural surroundings in a relaxed setting.
Key Points
- Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Lappish pancakes with smoked reindeer, a regional delicacy.
- Cultural Stories: Learn about Lapland’s culture, wildlife, and legends of the Northern Lights and midnight sun.
- Cozy Setting: Unwind in a warm lavvo campfire setup, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
- Local Delights: Savor homemade berry juice brewed over an open fire, plus Lappish cheese with cloudberries.
- Small Group: Limited to just six participants, ensuring a personal and engaging atmosphere.
- Flexible Scheduling: Check availability for different times, with flexible dates upon request.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Planning more time in Kittila? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Location and Setting
The tour begins at a simple yet charming starting point on Rajalammentie 59, marked clearly by a sign on a tree. From there, the journey takes you to a quiet garden in Ylläs, where a traditional lavvo—a Sami-style tent—awaits. The natural surroundings of pines and the Finnish sky create a peaceful backdrop, perfect for a relaxed evening.
The campfire acts as the centerpiece, providing warmth and ambiance. The glow of flames flickering against the evening sky amplifies the sense of stepping into a Lapland storybook. The setting is designed to foster conversation and connection, making it an ideal experience for those interested in cultural storytelling alongside their meal.
The Culinary Experience
The star of the evening is undoubtedly the Lappish pancakes. These are not your average breakfast fare; they’re hearty, flavorful, and served with smoked reindeer, a regional specialty that’s both tender and full of smoky richness. For vegetarians or vegans, the host happily prepares alternative pancakes, ensuring everyone can enjoy the feast.
Complementing the pancakes is homemade berry juice, brewed over the campfire—a sweet, tangy drink that warms your hands and your heart. Dessert features a unique Lappish cheese paired with cloudberries, a wild Arctic berry that adds a touch of luxury to the natural flavors.
Stories and Cultural Insights
While dining, your host shares stories of Lapland’s life and legends. These tales cover everything from local wildlife to the folklore surrounding the Northern Lights and the midnight sun. If you’re interested in photography, tips are also offered to help you capture the elusive Aurora Borealis, should the weather cooperate.
The storytelling enhances the meal, transforming it from a simple dinner into an immersive cultural experience. The hosts’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the stories come alive, and the small group size encourages questions and lively conversation.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Itinerary and Duration
The tour lasts approximately two hours, starting at a flexible time based on your schedule. It includes traditional food, a campfire experience, and storytelling, making it a well-paced, enriching evening. No transportation is included, so plan accordingly to reach the meeting point at Rajalammentie 59.
While you're exploring Kittila, here are other experiences we've looked into
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who value authentic cultural encounters and are happy to enjoy outdoor settings in cool weather. It’s ideal for adults and teens over 14 who appreciate stories and culinary traditions. Because the experience is intimate and relaxed, it’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to connect with local culture in a meaningful way.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For $85, you’re getting more than just a meal—you’re gaining insight into Lapland’s traditions, folklore, and natural beauty. The chance to taste regional specialties like smoked reindeer and wild berries, combined with engaging storytelling around a campfire, offers a truly memorable evening. The limited group size ensures a personalized experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter, more authentic outing.
While the experience might require some logistical planning to get to the meeting point, the warmth of the setting and the richness of the stories make it a worthwhile addition to any Lapland itinerary. It’s a wonderful way to slow down, enjoy regional flavors, and gain a deeper appreciation for the Finnish far north.
FAQ
Is transportation included in this experience?
No, transportation to the starting point is not included. Guests are responsible for reaching Rajalammentie 59, but the small group size helps keep things intimate.
What should I wear for this experience?
Bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes, as you’ll be outdoors and around a campfire. Layering is recommended to stay comfortable.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the host is happy to prepare vegetarian or vegan pancakes upon request. Please inform them of any allergies or dietary needs when booking.
What age is appropriate for this experience?
The activity is designed for guests aged 14 and up, suitable for teens and adults interested in cultural experiences.
How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including food, storytelling, and enjoying the campfire atmosphere.
Is alcohol or pets allowed?
No, pets and alcohol are not permitted during this experience.
Can I see the Northern Lights during this tour?
While the host shares tips about Aurora viewing, seeing the Northern Lights depends on weather conditions and timing. The focus of the tour is on local food and stories.
What makes this experience unique?
The combination of regional cuisine, cozy outdoor setting, and cultural storytelling creates a warm, authentic taste of Lapland that’s hard to find elsewhere.
This tour offers a genuine slice of Lapland life, perfect for travelers who cherish authenticity, stories, and regional flavors. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture lover, or simply seeking a memorable evening outdoors, it’s bound to be a highlight of your visit.
You can check availability for your dates here: