Rovaniemi: Sauna & Ice Swimming Tour with Dinner and Aurora

Rovaniemi: Sauna & Ice Swimming Tour with Dinner and Aurora offers a unique blend of Arctic relaxation, culture, and a dash of adventure, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lapland. For $182 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours enjoying a traditional Finnish sauna by an icy lake, followed by ice swimming or a snow plunge, then warming up with a hearty dinner in a cozy wooden cottage. The tour is especially popular from late October through mid-March, the prime season for catching the elusive Northern Lights.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines authentic local traditions with a real sense of adventure. The sauna experience is thoughtfully organized, with guides paying attention to every detail to make sure everyone feels comfortable and safe. Also, the chance to see the Northern Lights on a clear, dark night—if luck is on your side—is an unforgettable highlight.

One thing to keep in mind is that this activity involves cold exposure, so it’s not for everyone. If you’re not comfortable with cold water or have mobility issues, you might find the ice plunge a bit challenging. Still, for most travelers, the thrill and the scenery make it worthwhile. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and want to make the most of Lapland’s winter magic.

Key Points

• Authentic Finnish tradition: Experience a genuine sauna and ice swimming, which are staples of local life.
• Optimal Northern Lights timing: Best from October to March, with chances to witness the aurora on clear nights.
• All-inclusive comfort: Pickup, guides, towels, slippers, and a delicious dinner are included.
• Adventure with safety: Guides emphasize safety and comfort, but participants should be prepared for cold exposure.
• Authentic local cuisine: Enjoy smoked salmon by the fire in a rustic wooden cottage.
• Authentic atmosphere: Cozy, intimate setting with knowledgeable guides that make the experience engaging and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Location and Overall Atmosphere
This tour takes place in the heart of Lapland, near Rovaniemi, where the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. The setting is deliberately rustic and inviting—think wooden cottages, flickering firelight, and snow-covered trees. This environment offers a perfect backcloth for a genuine Finnish experience. The guides are clearly passionate about sharing their culture, and their friendly, professional attitude helps create a relaxed vibe.

The Sauna and Ice Swimming
The core of the experience is a traditional Finnish sauna on an Arctic lake. We loved the way the sauna’s heat gently purifies; it’s a meditative, almost spiritual moment that helps you disconnect from daily stresses. The sauna session lasts about 10-15 minutes, which is enough to warm your core and relax your muscles. Afterward, you have the option of jumping into the ice-cold water or rolling in snow—a practice that has long been a part of Finnish culture.

Based on reviews, many find the ice plunge both invigorating and humbling. One reviewer, Rúdi, praised the “guidance [that] thought about everything,” and even those hesitant about the cold found it surprisingly manageable. It’s a perfect balance: the contrast between the hot sauna and icy water is proven to boost circulation and endorphin levels, and many say it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of feeling.

Dinner in the Wooden Cottage
After the cold challenge, you’ll settle into a cozy wooden cottage for a traditional Finnish dinner. The highlight is smoked salmon, served by the fire—simple, hearty, and authentically local. Guests often rave about how tasty and generous the portions are, making it a satisfying end to your outdoor adventure. The warm environment, combined with the flickering fire and rustic surroundings, creates a feeling of genuine hospitality that many reviews describe as “cozy” and “heartwarming.”

Northern Lights Viewing
The tour’s evening departure aligns perfectly with prime aurora viewing conditions. While the lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, guides often stop to admire the sky if conditions look promising. Multiple reviewers shared their excitement about seeing the aurora dance across the sky, with shades of green, blue, violet, and red flickering overhead. Even if the lights don’t appear, the experience of being in such a pristine, dark environment still feels magical.

Additional Practical Details
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free. Towels and slippers are provided, so you don’t need to pack these. Participants are asked to bring weather-appropriate clothing and swimwear—essential for comfort during the sauna and dip. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 10, or those with certain health conditions, which is important to note.

Value and Overall Impression
At $182, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—combining relaxation, culture, and adventure. Comparing the cost to the depth of what’s offered, including transportation, guided instruction, and a hearty dinner, it’s a good deal for those wanting an authentic taste of Lapland’s winter traditions. Many reviews highlight the professional guides and the “high level” of organization, which really enhances the overall experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking authentic Finnish culture intertwined with outdoor adventure. If you enjoy cold weather activities and appreciate the chance to learn about local traditions, you’ll find this tour charming. It’s also ideal for those dreaming of a Northern Lights experience, especially since the timing aligns with the best viewing season.

However, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or people with health or mobility issues, given the nature of cold exposure and the physical aspect of ice swimming. If you’re looking for a luxury spa experience or want to avoid cold water altogether, other options might suit you better.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress in layers—think thermal underwear, warm socks, hats, and gloves—as the outdoor temperatures can be quite low.
• Bring your own bathing suit, as it’s not supplied but necessary for the ice swimming.
• Be prepared for cold exposure, but remember that guides emphasize safety and comfort.
• If you’re lucky and conditions are right, you might get to see the Northern Lights—keep your camera ready!
• The tour is about 2 hours long, followed by dinner, so plan your evening accordingly.
• Since the tour is not suitable for children under 10, consider alternative options if you’re traveling with family.

FAQ

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed on this tour?
No, since they are a natural phenomenon, a clear, dark sky is all you need for a chance to see the aurora. The guides cannot guarantee activity or colors, but they do their best to take you to prime viewing spots if the conditions are good.

What should I bring for the experience?
Weather-appropriate clothing is essential, including thermal layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof gear. You’ll also need your own bathing suit for the ice swimming.

How long does the tour last?
The sauna and ice swimming part lasts about 2 hours, with additional time for dinner and viewing. Expect to be on the tour for roughly half a day, depending on your pickup and drop-off times.

Is this activity suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with health conditions that could be affected by cold exposure or physical stress.

What is included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided experience, towels and slippers, the sauna and ice swimming activities, and dinner with smoked salmon and non-alcoholic beverages.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

In The Sum Up, this tour blends the best of Lapland’s winter traditions with a touch of adventure and the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights. It offers authenticity, comfort, and a dash of bravery—making it a memorable part of your Arctic journey. If you’re eager to experience Finnish sauna culture, try something exhilarating like ice swimming, and enjoy a cozy dinner in the wilderness, this tour is spot on. It’s especially suited for those who seek genuine local experiences and don’t mind a bit of cold to get the full Arctic flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here: