Levi: Horse Riding in the Finnish Forest

If you’re seeking a unique way to explore the pristine wilderness of Lapland, a horse riding tour through the Finnish forests might just be your perfect adventure. While we haven’t personally saddled up on this specific experience, the detailed reviews and tour descriptions suggest it’s a balanced mix of gentle outdoor activity, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. For those craving a peaceful escape into nature, this 1-hour ride offers an authentic chance to connect with Lapland’s untouched landscapes — all while riding on the famous, friendly Finn horses.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it appears for beginners. The fact that there’s a dedicated group for those new to riding, combined with the safety gear provided, makes it feel inclusive and approachable. It’s also praised for the beautiful scenery, which promises stunning views of Lapland’s forests, especially during the different seasons when the landscape changes. However, a potential consideration is the meeting point, as there’s no pickup included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the starting location. This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, cultural traditions, and outdoor activities without the intensity of more demanding excursions.

Key Points

• Gentle, friendly Finn horses suitable for all levels, including complete beginners
• Beautiful natural surroundings that showcase Lapland’s peaceful forests
• Led by an experienced guide, ensuring safety and insights into the local area
• Small group size (limited to 5 participants), fostering a personal experience
• Includes helmet, guiding, cookies, and juice for a comfy ride
• No included pickup/drop-off, so plan your transport accordingly

The Experience: What You Can Expect During the Tour

This horse riding experience is carefully designed to be accessible and enjoyable. We found that the focus on safety and comfort is evident from the start. The tour begins at Polar Lights Tours Oy, where your guide will give you a brief safety briefing and explain how to handle the horse — a must for those new to riding but reassuring for experienced riders as well. The 10-minute safety briefing ensures you’re comfortable and confident before heading out.

Riding on Friendly Finn Horses

The horses used here are described as friendly and reliable. They’re accustomed to working with different types of riders, making them excellent companions whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. Reviewers particularly appreciated how natural and calm the Finn horses felt, which helped many guests relax and enjoy the ride. One review mentioned, “Even as a complete novice, I felt safe and enjoyed the gentle pace and peaceful surroundings.”

Scenic Natural Surroundings

The ride itself lasts about 40 minutes, during which you’ll be led along trails through lush forests typical of Lapland. The scenery is often highlighted as a major highlight, with travelers mentioning the “stunning views,” and “the calm beauty of Lapland’s woods, which feel like stepping into a fairy tale.” The landscape shifts with the seasons, so whether you visit during the short summer days or the snowy winter, the scenery remains captivating.

Learning and Authenticity

Beyond just riding, you’ll gain some cultural insight — the guide might share stories about the local area and its traditions, adding depth to your experience. This connection to local culture enriches what might otherwise feel like a simple ride.

Photo Op and Refreshments

After the ride, there’s a 10-minute photo stop — a chance to capture the beautiful surroundings or some candid shots with your horse. The tour includes cookies and juice, which provide a cozy finish and an opportunity to chat about the experience with your fellow riders.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: The tour kicks off at Muoniontie 955 parking near Polar Lights Tours Oy. You’ll gather here for the safety briefing before heading out into the forest.

Safety Briefing: Lasting around 10 minutes, this is where your guide explains how to handle the horse, what to expect during the ride, and safety tips. Guests have noted that the guide, often an experienced local, is personable and eager to answer questions.

Guided Tour: The main event lasts 40 minutes. Riders are led along forest trails that showcase Lapland’s natural beauty. The pace is gentle, making it suitable for beginners but still enjoyable for those with riding experience.

Photo Stop: At the end of the ride, there’s a brief 10-minute stop for photos, allowing you to admire the scenery up close and maybe even snap some shots with your horse.

Return: You’ll be brought back to the starting point, where you can relax and reflect on your peaceful adventure.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour includes everything needed for a safe and enjoyable experience — guiding, helmet, horseback riding, and refreshments like cookies and juice. The small group size (up to 5 people) ensures a more personalized experience and plenty of attention from your guide.

One thing to note is that pickup and drop-off from Levi center are not included**. If you’re staying in Levi, you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point. From reviews, travelers often found this straightforward, especially if they’re already nearby, but it’s worth factoring into your schedule.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $85 per person, this experience offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and gentle outdoor activity. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, safety gear, and refreshments makes it fair value for those looking to enjoy a genuine Lapland experience without overextending their budget. For anyone interested in nature and authentic local traditions, it’s a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for beginners or those with limited riding experience wanting a relaxed, scenic adventure. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful connection with nature. If you love quiet forests and learning about local traditions, you’ll find this ride both calming and enriching.

If you’re after an adrenaline rush or a longer, more challenging ride, this might not satisfy those needs, but for many, the gentle pace and stunning scenery more than make up for it.

Final Thoughts

The Levi Horse Riding in the Finnish Forest tour offers a rare opportunity to enjoy Lapland’s tranquil woods on horseback, guided by experienced locals and riding trustworthy Finn horses. The combination of beautiful scenery, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace makes this a memorable experience, especially for those new to riding or seeking a peaceful outdoor activity.

While the lack of included transportation may require some planning, the overall value and authentic feel of the tour make it a lovely addition to any Lapland visit. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the fresh Arctic air, and enjoy the gentle companionship of a well-trained horse as you explore the quiet forests of Lapland.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all riding levels, with a dedicated group for beginners and guidance on handling the horses.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, a helmet is included in the tour to ensure safety for all riders.

How long is the actual riding time?
The guided ride lasts approximately 40 minutes, with additional time for safety briefing and a photo stop.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for the weather. Since the tour takes place in forested areas, consider wearing layers and sturdy shoes.

Is transportation included?
No, pickup and drop-off from Levi center are not included, so plan your own transport to the meeting point.

Can I join if I have no riding experience?
Absolutely. The tour caters to beginners, and the horses are used to working with new riders, making it a stress-free experience.

Is the tour suitable during winter?
Yes, though the scenery and trail conditions will vary with the season. Many reviews highlight the magical winter landscape.

What is the group size?
Limited to 5 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this horse riding tour in Levi offers a peaceful and scenic way to experience Lapland’s forests, perfect for those seeking a gentle, culturally rich outdoor activity. With friendly horses, expert guidance, and beautiful surroundings, it’s a delightful addition to any Arctic adventure — especially if you value authenticity and tranquility.