Lapland Self-Drive Adventure
Category
Travel period
Autumn
Trip type
FIT
Duration
7 Days / 6 Nights
A memorable journey through the heart of Finnish Lapland, this self-drive tour offers the freedom to explore pristine wilderness, charming towns, and unforgettable accommodations at your own pace. From the elevated tranquillity of Iso Syöte to the magical Arctic atmosphere of Rovaniemi, each stop has been selected for its natural beauty and authenticity.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Oulu – Drive to Iso Syöte
Upon arrival in Oulu (own arrangements), a rental car will be picked up and the journey begins. The route leads northeast towards Iso Syöte, where accommodation is arranged for three nights at an arctic hilltop boutique hotel. Dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant.
Day 2–3: Iso Syöte
Two full days are allocated for enjoying the natural surroundings of Iso Syöte. Seasonal excursions such as hiking, biking, snowmobiling, or berry picking are available and can be arranged locally. Access to the hotel’s arctic spa, featuring a sauna and outdoor pools, is included. Guests are invited to relax and reconnect with nature. Breakfast and dinner are included on both days.
Day 4: Iso Syöte – Rovaniemi (via Ranua)
Following breakfast, the journey continues northward. A recommended stop is in Ranua, a small town known for its wildlife park—home to Arctic species such as polar bears, lynx, and moose. Upon arrival in Rovaniemi, accommodation will be provided at the Arctic SnowHotel and Glass Igloos, where guests will stay in a private glass igloo. Dinner will be served on site.
Day 5: Rovaniemi
A full day is set aside to explore Rovaniemi. A visit to the Santa Claus Holiday Village is highly recommended. Optional excursions such as husky safaris, guided tours, or cultural visits can be arranged upon request. Guests are also encouraged to make use of the Arctic SnowHotel’s sauna and jacuzzi (additional charge). Breakfast and dinner are included.
Day 6: Rovaniemi – Oulu
Today, the drive returns south to Oulu. The final night will be spent at Lapland Hotel Oulu, known for its refined style and focus on regional character. Breakfast is included; the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 7: Departure from Oulu
After breakfast, the rental car is to be returned at Oulu Airport. Departure according to individual arrangements.
Tour Details
Accommodation
3 nights in the hilltop Hotel Iso Syöte with breakfast and dinner included
2 nights in a glass igloo at the Arctic SnowHotel, Rovaniemi, with breakfast and dinner included
1 night at Lapland Hotel Oulu with breakfast included
Excursions & activities
Spa entrance at Hotel Iso Syöte (treatments available at additional cost)
Local tip
While en route from Iso Syöte to Rovaniemi, it is recommended to allow time in Ranua. This small and welcoming town is ideal for a short stop, and a visit to Ranua Wildlife Park is particularly enjoyable for families and animal lovers.