Lapland, located in the far north of Finland, is internationally known as the home of Santa Claus, as well as for the Northern Lights that illuminate its winter skies and the midnight sun that shines endlessly in summer.
Choosing the right time to visit is an essential part of the experience, as the seasons are remarkably distinct: in winter, the polar night prevails and the hills are covered in snow; in summer, the land is bathed in the glow of the white nights; while autumn is considered an ideal season to explore the national parks, according to Ecobnb.
With the growing popularity of Lapland as a tourist destination, concerns about its environmental impact are also increasing. To preserve its pristine nature, the “Sustainable Travel Finland” label was introduced—an accredited program designed to encourage tourism companies to adopt environmentally responsible practices, ensuring the protection of the region’s biodiversity against the effects of climate change.
What to Visit in Lapland?
Lapland offers a wide range of attractions. For example, Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is home to Santa Claus Village, along with prominent museums such as the Pilke Science Center and the Lapland Forest Museum.
Additionally, the Ranua Wildlife Park—just an hour away from Rovaniemi—hosts polar bears, brown bears, wolves, and other Arctic species.
National Parks
For those seeking to explore national parks, Lapland offers several outstanding options, including:
Hossa: Crystal-clear lakes and a variety of activities such as canoeing and fishing.
Oulanka: Majestic waterfalls and the Oulankajoki and Kitkajoki rivers, making it a perfect destination for photography.
Riisitunturi: Stunning snowy landscapes in winter, with opportunities to witness the Northern Lights.
Syöte: Mountain biking trails and golden eagle watching amid dense forests.
Sustainable Stays in the Heart of Nature
“Metsäkolo” stands out as a model of eco-friendly accommodation in southern Lapland, where visitors can sleep in treehouses or cozy cabins by the lakes, designed with high-quality Finnish interiors that are both sustainable and environmentally friendly.
The site also offers seasonal nature-based activities such as berry picking in summer and snowshoeing in winter, giving travelers an experience that blends comfort with sustainability.
Lapland is more than just a tourist destination—it is a living example of how visitor enjoyment can be combined with environmental protection. In the face of growing climate change threats, the responsibility to preserve this unique region remains a collective duty, ensuring that its magic endures for generations to come.
