Sleigh Ride w/ snacks – Experience Arctic Farm Life

If you’re craving a genuine taste of Arctic life, this sleigh ride at a local farm in Alta offers a peaceful, authentic experience that combines stunning scenery, friendly farm animals, and a touch of winter magic. It’s a cozy outing that’s perfect whether you’re visiting in winter or summer, with the chance to watch for the Northern Lights in the right season.

What makes this experience really shine is the personalized nature of the private ride, paired with stories from the farm’s family. Plus, you get to snuggle under warm blankets and enjoy homemade snacks afterward—what’s not to love?

That said, one consideration to keep in mind is the outdoor element—it’s a true winter experience, so dressing appropriately is necessary, especially if snow is falling heavily. This tour suits those looking for a relaxed, intimate Arctic adventure with a focus on local culture, scenery, and farm life.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic farm experience with a cozy sleigh ride
• Private tour offers a personalized and intimate atmosphere
• Includes local snacks like cinnamon rolls, cured meats, and hot drinks
• Covered transportation and warm clothing included, making it accessible
• Opportunity to see the Northern Lights if luck is on your side
• Suitable year-round, but particularly magical in winter

An Overview of the Experience

This sleigh ride lasts around 30-40 minutes, set against the backdrop of the Mathisdalen Valley, a scenic and tranquil spot just a short drive from Alta’s city center. The tour is offered by Omdal Gard, a family-run farm renowned for its warm hospitality and genuine farm life experience.

The organizers pick you up directly from your location in Alta—convenient whether you’re on a cruise or staying locally. The transport, a comfortable 4×4, is equipped to handle winter weather, and warm clothing and blankets are provided if needed. This means you won’t need to worry about bundling up excessively or braving the cold in unsuitable clothes.

Once at the farm, you’ll meet the Norwegian fjord horses that will pull your sleigh, along with other farm animals like sheep and perhaps even a friendly cat. The guides and hosts are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing stories about farm life, the local environment, and Norwegian traditions.

The Scenic Ride

The sleigh itself is designed for comfort—snuggling under a blanket while the horses’ bells jingle in the crisp air makes for a truly magical moment. Many reviews describe the ride as “cozy,” “gentle,” and “beautiful,” with some lucky visitors possibly catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights if conditions are right.

While the ride is relatively short, it’s packed with atmosphere. Reviewers mention the peacefulness of the forested farm land, with one describing it as “like a Christmas card scene,” especially when snow-covered trees glisten in the winter sun or under the aurora.

Farm Visit and Snacks

After the ride, the group is invited into a Sami tent (lavvu) for hot drinks and snacks, including homemade cinnamon buns, cured meats, and coffee. The reviews highlight the deliciousness of the cinnamon rolls and the warm hospitality from the family.

Guests also get a chance to meet the animals—pats for the horses, a look at the sheep, and stories from the family about their farm life, making this a perfect experience for animal lovers or families. One reviewer notes how their senior mother appreciated the comfort and warmth of the short ride, and how the host’s storytelling added to the charm.

Practical Details

The price of $171.40 per person is quite reasonable considering the personalized nature of the experience, the included transportation, warm clothing, and the homemade snacks. Many reviews mention they booked well in advance—around 74 days on average, which underscores its popularity and the need to plan ahead.

The tour is available year-round, with the option for winter or summer rides. However, the winter experience offers snowy landscapes and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, making it especially memorable.

The duration of about 2 hours 30 minutes includes pickup, travel, the sleigh ride, farm visit, and snacks, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

One of the standout qualities of this tour is its family-run essence. Multiple reviewers comment on the genuine warmth and knowledge of the hosts, often sharing personal stories and farm insights.

For example, one guest mentions how the guide, Rune, was welcoming and informative, enhancing the experience far beyond just a ride. Another loved how the family’s animals—horses, sheep, cats—added a personal and heartwarming element, making the experience feel more like a visit to friends’ countryside home rather than a commercial tour.

What We Loved

• The personalized, private setting gives a sense of exclusivity and comfort
• The beautiful scenery and the sound of sleigh bells create a winter wonderland vibe
• The homemade snacks and warm drinks are a perfect touch, adding to the authenticity
• The chance to interact with farm animals and learn about farm life from locals
• The flexible scheduling with several time slots makes it easy to fit into your trip
• The option to see the Northern Lights adds an extra layer of magic (subject to weather and conditions)

Possible Considerations

While many rave about this experience, it’s good to remember that outdoor winter activities depend heavily on weather conditions. Heavy snow or cold temperatures (sometimes as low as -25°C at the farm) mean you’ll need appropriate layered clothing, which the tour provides. Still, if you’re sensitive to cold, this might be less suitable for you.

The ride duration is relatively short, which is perfect for a relaxed experience but might feel too brief for some seeking a longer adventure.

Plus, the cost might seem high for some, but considering the level of personalization, the included transportation, and the quality of the experience, many reviewers believe it offers excellent value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking an authentic and intimate Arctic adventure. It’s perfect for animal lovers, those interested in local culture, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape into Norway’s winter landscape.

If you’re a solo traveler or visiting during the winter, the chance to see the Northern Lights while riding makes this a memorable choice. It’s also great for travelers looking for a less commercialized, family-run experience that emphasizes genuine hospitality and natural beauty.

The Sum Up

This sleigh ride at Omdal Gard offers a charming, authentic glimpse into Arctic farm life, wrapped in a cozy, private setting. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly hosts, and homemade snacks creates a warm and memorable experience, whether in winter snow or summer sunshine.

It’s a perfect outing for those who want more than a generic tour—here, you get personalized storytelling, interactions with animals, and the chance to relax in the tranquility of Norway’s countryside.

While the outdoor elements require appropriate clothing and a bit of patience with the weather, the warmth and authenticity of the experience make it well worth it. This tour excels in value for anyone wanting a comfortable, genuine, and scenic adventure in Alta, especially during the winter months when the Northern Lights might join your sleigh ride.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from your location in Alta is included, making it easy to start your Arctic adventure without extra hassle.

What should I wear for the sleigh ride?
Warm clothing is provided if needed, but layering is recommended especially in winter when temperatures can drop as low as -25°C at the farm. Bring your own winter gear if you’re sensitive to the cold.

How long is the entire experience?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including pickup, travel, the sleigh ride, and farm visit with snacks.

Can I see the Northern Lights during the ride?
While not guaranteed, many reviews mention the possibility of seeing the Aurora Borealis if the sky is clear and conditions are right.

Is this experience suitable in summer?
Yes, the sleigh rides are available year-round, but the winter scenery with snow and potential Northern Lights make the winter trip especially enchanting.

Are there age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for families, seniors, or individuals. The experience is designed to be comfortable and accessible.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, warm clothing if needed, the sleigh ride, a visit to the farm animals, and snacks such as cinnamon buns and cured meats.

How far is the farm from Alta’s city center?
About 30 minutes by vehicle, making it a convenient escape into the countryside.

What kind of horses pull the sleigh?
The sleigh is drawn by Norwegian fjord horses, known for their calm demeanor and strength, making for a smooth ride.

What else can I expect at the farm?
You’ll meet farm animals like sheep and horses, hear stories about farm life, and enjoy the hospitality of the family that runs the farm, adding a personal touch to your Arctic adventure.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Norway’s quiet charm, especially in winter. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, animal interactions, or a chance to see the Northern Lights in a cozy setting, it’s a memorable outing that balances authenticity with comfort.