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Top Winter Activities in Levi: From Skiing to Northern Lights Safaris

Levi, located in Finnish Lapland, is a winter wonderland that offers an array of thrilling activities against the backdrop of stunning snowy landscapes and the magical glow of the Northern Lights. Known for its well-maintained ski slopes, cozy atmosphere, and pristine wilderness, Levi is a dream destination for winter enthusiasts. Whether you’re a skier, a nature lover, or simply seeking a taste of authentic Arctic experiences, Levi provides an incredible variety of winter adventures. Here’s a look at some of the top activities to enjoy in Levi, from world-class skiing to unforgettable Northern Lights safaris.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Levi is Finland’s largest ski resort and one of the top skiing destinations in Scandinavia, known for its well-groomed slopes and a variety of trails that cater to all skill levels. With 43 slopes and 27 ski lifts, Levi has something for everyone, from gentle runs for beginners to challenging black slopes for advanced skiers. The resort is especially popular with families, as there are several kid-friendly slopes and dedicated areas for children to learn and play.

Snowboarding enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy at Levi’s Snow Park, which features jumps, rails, and other freestyle elements for every skill level. The snow park is designed with both beginners and experienced boarders in mind, making it easy for riders to hone their skills or try something new. With an average of 200 days of snow coverage per year, Levi is a reliable destination for skiers and snowboarders looking to make the most of the winter season.

Cross-Country Skiing

For those who prefer a slower, more immersive experience, cross-country skiing is a fantastic way to explore the beauty of Levi’s forests and frozen lakes. Levi boasts over 230 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails, with options for both classic and skating styles. Many of the trails are illuminated, allowing skiers to glide through the peaceful Lappish landscape even after dark. Cross-country skiing is a fantastic workout and provides an excellent opportunity to spot local wildlife, such as reindeer and arctic hares, while breathing in the fresh, crisp Arctic air.

Husky and Reindeer Safaris

A quintessential part of any trip to Lapland, husky and reindeer safaris offer a unique and thrilling way to explore the wilderness around Levi. Husky sledding is an adrenaline-pumping experience, as you glide across the snow-covered landscape, pulled by a team of eager sled dogs. Many tour operators offer a chance to meet the huskies, learn how they are trained, and even try driving the sled yourself. The bond between the mushers and their dogs is remarkable, and the joy of being pulled by such energetic animals is contagious.

For a slower-paced, traditional experience, a reindeer safari is an excellent choice. Reindeer herding has been an essential part of Sami culture for centuries, and a reindeer sled ride offers a peaceful, scenic journey through the snow-covered forests. Most reindeer safaris are guided by Sami herders, who share fascinating insights into their way of life and the significance of reindeer in the region’s culture. After the ride, you’ll often have the chance to warm up with hot drinks around a fire in a traditional Sami tent, or “kota.”

Snowmobiling Adventures

For those seeking a bit more speed, snowmobiling is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore the Arctic landscape around Levi. The area offers hundreds of kilometers of snowmobiling trails, ranging from gentle routes suitable for beginners to more challenging trails that wind through the wilderness. Guided snowmobile tours are available for all experience levels, and most tours provide all the necessary gear, including helmets and thermal suits to keep you warm.

Snowmobiling offers the thrill of racing across frozen lakes, zooming through dense forests, and even climbing up fells for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Nighttime snowmobile tours are particularly popular, as they give you the chance to explore the Arctic under the starry sky and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing above.

Ice Fishing on Frozen Lakes

Ice fishing is a peaceful yet rewarding winter activity that gives you a taste of traditional Lappish life. During the winter months, the lakes around Levi freeze over, creating the perfect environment for ice fishing. Guided ice fishing tours take you out onto the frozen lake, where you’ll drill your own hole through the ice and wait patiently for fish to bite, all while surrounded by the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

Fishing in these icy waters can yield fish such as arctic char, trout, and perch. Many tours provide all the necessary equipment, as well as warm beverages to keep you comfortable as you wait. Ice fishing is as much about the experience of being out in nature as it is about catching fish, and there’s something incredibly calming about sitting on the ice, surrounded by silence, with only the occasional sounds of the wilderness around you.

Northern Lights Safaris

One of the most enchanting reasons to visit Levi in winter is the chance to witness the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis. Levi’s location above the Arctic Circle makes it an ideal spot for viewing the Northern Lights, which are visible on clear nights from September to April. Seeing the aurora borealis is an awe-inspiring experience, as green, pink, and purple lights dance across the sky in mesmerizing patterns.

There are several ways to hunt for the Northern Lights in Levi, from guided tours to self-guided excursions. Northern Lights safaris are often conducted by snowmobile, snowshoes, or even reindeer sleigh, allowing you to venture into remote areas far from artificial light pollution. Some tours take you to heated cabins or glass igloos where you can watch the sky in comfort, while others bring you to secluded spots in the wilderness for an immersive stargazing experience.

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

For those who want a quiet, immersive way to explore Levi’s beautiful winter landscapes, snowshoeing and winter hiking are excellent options. Snowshoes allow you to easily trek through deep snow, making it possible to explore areas that would be inaccessible otherwise. Levi offers a variety of snowshoeing trails through serene forests, over frozen lakes, and up gentle hills for stunning views of the surrounding fells.

Guided snowshoe tours provide insight into the local flora and fauna, as well as tips on spotting wildlife tracks in the snow. Many tours take place at night, offering the magical experience of snowshoeing under the moonlight and possibly catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Snowshoeing is also an easy and accessible activity for all ages, making it a great choice for families.

Visit Santa’s Cabin

For families and holiday enthusiasts, Levi offers the unique opportunity to visit Santa’s Cabin. Tucked away in a forest near Levi, Santa’s Cabin is a charming hideaway where visitors can meet Santa Claus himself, share holiday wishes, and explore the cabin decorated in festive Lappish style. It’s a magical experience for children and adults alike, adding an extra touch of holiday spirit to your trip. Some tours even offer the chance to bake traditional Finnish gingerbread cookies with Santa’s elves, making it a memorable experience for all ages.

Relaxing in Finnish Saunas and Ice Baths

After a day of snowy adventures, there’s nothing more relaxing than unwinding in a traditional Finnish sauna. Levi offers a variety of saunas, from cozy cabins in the woods to luxury spa facilities. Many saunas in Levi are situated near frozen lakes, allowing you to experience the invigorating Finnish tradition of alternating between hot saunas and icy dips. The combination of hot and cold is said to improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, and boost overall well-being.

For a luxury sauna experience, visit the Levi Spa Water World, where you can enjoy a variety of saunas, steam rooms, and heated pools, as well as an ice-cold plunge pool. There’s also an outdoor pool where you can relax in warm waters while watching the snowy landscape around you, a perfect way to unwind after a day in the Arctic cold.

Conclusion

Levi in winter offers an unforgettable mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and relaxation in a stunning Arctic setting. From skiing and snowboarding on world-class slopes to watching the Northern Lights from a cozy cabin or zipping through the wilderness on a snowmobile, there’s something for everyone in this winter wonderland. Each activity reveals a different side of Levi’s beauty, making it a destination that can be enjoyed by all ages and interests. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or a quiet nature lover, Levi promises a winter experience that’s as magical as it is memorable.

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