
Winter Activities
Kick-sledging, snowshoeing & more

Cross-country Ski School
Guided by professional instructors

Husky Safari Adventure
Husky sled ride & campfire lunch

Northern Lights Chase
Enjoy an Aurora snowmobile safari
About this trip...
Set in north-east Finland, the small town of Kuhmo is surrounded by ancient forests, frozen lakes and some of the deepest snow in the country, making it an ideal base for winter adventures. Staying at the welcoming Hotel Kalevala, on the shores of Lake Lammasjärvi, you’ll be immersed in the mythical landscapes of the Wild Taiga from the moment you arrive. This action-packed week combines unforgettable winter experiences with time to relax and unwind. Enjoy husky safaris, learn the art of cross-country skiing and explore snow-covered forests on guided snowshoe walks, with an evening Aurora snowmobile safari adding extra magic. After each day’s adventures, relax in traditional Finnish saunas or soak in the indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, soaking up the calm and comfort of this unique wilderness setting.
Return flights & transfers
One piece of checked luggage
Airport taxes & charges
Double/twin room for sole use
Half Board: Daily breakfast & dinner
Welcome drink
Daily evening sauna and use of indoor & outdoor jacuzzi
One smoke sauna
Free use of kick-sledges & toboggans
Cross-country skiing
Husky safari adventure
Snowshoeing through the Taiga
Aurora snowmobile safari
Accompanying Solos Tour Leader
Fully financially protected
- Insurance click here
What you'll be doing

Day One: Welcome to Finland!
Your adventure begins on arrival at Kajaani Airport, where our transfer awaits to take us to the enchanting surroundings of Hotel Kalevala. On arrival, we’re welcomed with a warming drink before settling in and enjoying dinner in the hotel restaurant. This first evening is a perfect introduction to Finnish hospitality, with time to unwind after our journey and soak up the cosy atmosphere of this winter retreat.
- Dinner included

Day Two: Snow Fun Activities
The day begins with a morning briefing on the week’s programme, along with details of additional optional activities available to book locally. We can then explore the snow-covered surroundings and try out a range of winter equipment such as sledges, toboggans and kick-sledges, all included as part of our stay, embracing the first thrills of a Finnish winter.
- Breakfast & dinner included

Day Three: Cross-Country Ski School
Today is dedicated to learning the art of cross-country skiing. Beginners are guided by professional instructors at the Kalevala ski centre, offering an enjoyable introduction to this classic Finnish pastime. We glide along snowy trails, surrounded by towering pine forests and sparkling frozen lakes, while building confidence and new skills in a beautiful winter setting.
- Breakfast & dinner included

Day Four: Husky Safari Adventure
Prepare for an exhilarating day on a husky safari. We travel along snowy trails in teams of two per sled, with the opportunity to switch drivers halfway through. Along the way, soak up the serenity of the winter wilderness before stopping for a drink and sausages by an open fire. At the end of the safari, we meet the friendly huskies and have time for photographs. Back at the hotel, there’s time to relax — perhaps enjoy a few board games with our fellow travellers — before dinner.
- Breakfast & dinner included

Day Five: Snowshoeing through the Taiga
Today we embark on a guided snowshoeing tour through breathtaking taiga forests and across frozen lakes. This leisurely trek lets us experience the pristine beauty of Finland’s wilderness up close, with stops along the way for hot drinks and snacks around a warming campfire. Walking on snowshoes offers the perfect mix of adventure and tranquillity, making it a real highlight of the week.
- Breakfast & dinner included

Day Six: Aurora Snowmobile Safari
Experience the thrill of a three-hour evening snowmobile safari, exploring quiet winter landscapes in teams of two per snowmobile, with the opportunity to switch drivers along the way. As night falls, the sky may be illuminated by the Northern Lights, nature’s own spectacular display. We enjoy coffee, juice and snacks around a campfire, creating an unforgettable evening in the Finnish wilderness.
- Breakfast & dinner included

Day Seven: Free day & optional activities
Today is ours to enjoy at leisure. Choose from optional activities such as ice fishing, skishoeing and exploring the highlights of Kuhmo or simply explore the snowy landscape on rental snowshoes or skis. It’s a chance to personalise our winter adventure and soak up the peaceful beauty of Kuhmo at our own pace.
- Breakfast & dinner included

Day Eight: Departure day
After breakfast and some free time, we transfer to Kuopio Airport for our flight home.
- Breakfast included
Accommodation
Dates & Prices
Essential Information
Transfer Time
Kajaani Airport to Hotel Kalevala is approximately 1hr 35 minutes.
Hotel Kalevala to Kuopio Airport is approximately 2 hrs 30 minutes.
We recommend dressing in layers, starting with a thermal base layer, followed by an insulating mid-layer such as fleece or wool, and finishing with a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Thermal leggings or trousers are essential, and ski trousers are ideal for outdoor activities.
Footwear should be warm, waterproof winter boots with good grip and room for thick socks. Wool or thermal socks are strongly recommended, and it is advisable to bring several pairs.
Additional essential items include:
- Warm hat that covers the ears
- Insulated gloves or mittens (mittens are warmer, especially for children)
- Scarf or neck warmer
- Optional hand and foot warmers for extra comfort
- Swimwear for use in the jacuzzi and sauna.
- Casual clothing for your time at the hotel.
The hotel has a drying room which you can use to dry your clothes at the end of each day.
Snowsuit hire
You can hire a snow suit from the hotel at a cost of €25 per day or €75 for the duration of your stay. Please book this prior to departure.
A visa is not required by holders of passports endorsed “British Citizen” for stays of upto 90 days in any 180-day period.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct visa, a valid passport and any other travel documents for your holiday. All information provided relates to British citizens who hold or are entitled to apply for a British passport.
From the 12th October 2025 the EU is introducing a new European Entry System (EES) that will be phased in and fully operational by the 10th April 2026. Non-EU nationals including British passport holders will now be required to complete biometric checks on arrival and exit to Schengen countries, which will include facial recognition and fingerprints. There is no cost for this, and no action needs to be taken prior to departure.
For the most up-to-date visa information please visit; FCO Advice. If you are not a British citizen and do not hold a British passport, you must make your own enquiries as to the applicable requirements.
The currency in Finland is the Euro.
There is often confusion on the question of gratuities, since it frequently depends on the type of holiday, location and, of course, your attitude towards tipping, as to what is normally expected. To give you a rough idea, we have given appropriate guidance below. Your Tour Leader will be on hand to offer advice or suggestions if required but gratuities are offered entirely at the sole discretion of the individual. We suggest a group collection at the beginning of your holiday to cover drivers, guides, porters, and hotel staff of approximately EUR 30.00 per person. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip.
You may wish to take an optional excursion during the course of your stay. Full details will be given at the Information Meeting. Your Tour Leader will help arrange these for you but may not necessarily accompany you. Please note: - Optional excursions are not guaranteed and are based on minimum numbers. The prices quoted are guideline only and may involve other non-Solos travelers.
Winter Experiences
Ice Fishing, 2–3 hours | €59
Drill a hole in the ice and try traditional ice fishing with a jig. Travel to the fishing spot on snowshoes, skis, or on foot.
Includes hot drinks, sausages cooked over an open fire, and fishing equipment for the rest of the day.
Fat Bike Tour, 2 hours | €79
Explore winter trails on a fat bike. The route is planned together with your guide to suit the group.
Includes guide, fat bike, helmet, and refreshments.
Unique Wilderness Experiences
Healing from Nature 3–4 hours | €129
Reconnect with nature and discover the healing properties of the forest. After a short drive, use snowshoes or skishoes to gather spruce resin. By the campfire, prepare your own natural resin cream while enjoying a fireside snack.
Each participant takes home a jar of handcrafted resin cream, known for its soothing and healing qualities. Includes transfers, coffee, snacks, and jar.
Skishoe Adventure on an Island, 3 hours | €129
Skishoes, a hybrid between skis and snowshoes, are easy to learn and ideal for off-trail exploration. Ski across a frozen lake from Hotel Kalevala to Harakkasaari Island, formed during the Ice Age. Explore the island, hear fascinating stories about Finnish nature, then enjoy soup, bread, and coffee or tea by the fire.
Wellbeing, Nature & Local Life
Life in Bearlands, 3–4 hours | €159
Visit the home of a local guide in the heart of bear country, just 25 km from Kuhmo. Surrounded by forests rich in wildlife, this experience offers a gentle walk of up to 4 km (in winter using skishoes), where you’ll discover animal tracks and traces of the Ice Age.
After the walk, relax indoors with coffee, tea, and snacks while your host shares insights into everyday life in the Finnish wilderness — blending tradition with modern living.
You might even discover why Finns are considered the happiest people in the world!
Note: There is a cat in the house, so this tour is not suitable for guests with allergies.
Nature, History & Culture of Kuhmo, 2 hours | €99
Explore the highlights of Kuhmo on a guided walk combining nature, history, and culture. Begin at the scenic Pajakkakoski River, a peaceful haven near the town centre and a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
Continue along the lakeshore to visit the Juminkeko Cultural Centre, where you’ll learn about Kalevala traditions, borderland life, and view an art exhibition. The walk then continues to the Kuhmo Arts Centre, home to one of Finland’s finest concert halls.
After the tour, enjoy 2 hours of free time for lunch, cafés, or shopping (not included).
Transfers from the hotel and entrance to Juminkeko included.
Two Nature Trails, Best of Kuhmo, 3–4 hours | €129
Discover Kuhmo’s natural beauty on an easy-paced tour visiting two scenic nature trails, both just 15 minutes from the hotel.
- Lauttavaara Nature Trail (2 km): Explore old-growth forest, Ice Age formations, plants, and wildlife signs.
- Lentua Rapids (1.5 km): Visit the largest free-flowing rapid in the Kainuu region and learn about its historical use as a tar transport route.
Finish the experience by lighting a fire at a traditional laavu shelter and enjoying coffee and a snack by the rapids.

















