Rovaniemi: Winter Horseback Ride on Snowy Hills and Forests

This guided horseback riding tour in Rovaniemi offers a unique way to experience Lapland’s winter landscape. For about two hours, you’ll saddle up and glide through snow-covered hills and forests, surrounded by the silence and beauty of a true winter wonderland. It’s a scenic, relaxed activity that’s suitable for all riding levels, with a cozy finish in a warm hut, making it an ideal winter outing.

One of the things we love about this experience is how it combines outdoor adventure with authentic farm life. Meeting the horses beforehand and learning about farm animals like sheep and dogs adds a charming, personal touch. The chance to enjoy hot juice in a rustic hut after riding really rounds out the experience, giving you a warm, comforting moment after your trek.

A potential consideration is that this tour has some physical requirements—participants must wear warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and there’s a weight limit of 209 lbs (95 kg). It’s also not suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues or allergies to animals. But if you’re comfortable with riding basics and love nature, this tour will suit you well.

This experience is perfect for those seeking a gentle, scenic adventure that blends outdoor activity with a taste of farm life. It’s especially suited for beginners, nature enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a peaceful, authentic encounter with Lapland’s winter landscape.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
• Authentic farm experience: Meet horses, sheep, dogs, and learn about farm life in Lapland.
• Beautiful scenery: Ride through snowy hills and forests, perfect for nature lovers.
• Cozy ending: Warm up with hot juice inside a rustic hut after your ride.
• Small group size: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Valuable insights: Guides share stories of farm life, adding depth to the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Rovaniemi Winter Horseback Ride

The Setting and Scenery

The tour kicks off at a traditional farm in Lapland, where you’ll meet your horse and get an introduction to riding. The setting is picturesque—snowy fields, dense forests, and rolling hills blanketed in white. The landscape offers a serene backdrop that makes the riding feel like a journey through an untouched winter painting.

Participants are matched with a horse that fits their riding ability, which adds to the comfort and enjoyment. Even if you’re a beginner, the quick safety briefing and support from guides make you feel confident to take in the views and focus on the tranquility.

The Riding Experience

The ride itself lasts about an hour, but the pace is relaxed, making it accessible for all. We loved how the guide emphasized safety without sacrificing the fun. The horses are well-trained, calm, and used to the snowy terrain, which reinforces the feeling of riding on soft, snowy carpets.

You’ll find the ride particularly scenic—riding deep into the forest, where snow-laden branches dip close to your saddle, and the silence of the snow-covered hills is only broken by the gentle sounds of hooves. As one reviewer noted, “The ride was very peaceful, and I appreciated the slow pace that allowed me to take in the scenery at my leisure.”

Learning About Farm Life

Post-ride, you’ll step into a cozy wooden hut for hot juice, a simple but warming gesture after your outdoor adventure. This is where the real charm of the tour shines. Guides share stories about farm life in Lapland, explaining how farming adapts to the harsh winter conditions. Meeting animals like sheep, dogs, and cats allows for some delightful interactions and makes the experience more personal.

One guest remarked, “The guide was very friendly and shared interesting details about the farm, making us feel like part of the community, even if just for a few hours.” It’s a genuine glimpse into rural life that adds depth beyond just the ride.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts between 2 and 4 hours, with the riding segment typically around an hour. You’ll need to arrive at the stables prepared with warm clothing and comfortable shoes. Since transportation to the farm isn’t included, you’ll want to plan your own way there, or opt for a pickup if offered.

Groups are limited to six participants, providing a more intimate experience and personalized guidance—especially helpful if you’re new to riding. The tour operates in multiple starting times, so you can choose a slot that fits your schedule.

The Value and Cost

At $211 per person, the price includes the guided horseback ride, safety equipment, a quick riding introduction, and the warm drink afterward. Considering the personalized attention, scenic riding, and farm visit, many will find this a fair value—especially given the small group setting and authentic farm experience.

For those who love nature and want a quiet, scenic outing without the adrenaline rush of snowmobiling or husky sledding, this tour offers a peaceful alternative that still delivers stunning views and meaningful interaction with animals.

What to Expect and What to Bring

You should wear weather-appropriate, warm clothing—layers work well—and sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for snow. The guides are supportive throughout the ride, so even beginners can enjoy the experience, provided they’re dressed suitably.

Note that children under 12 and individuals with mobility issues or animal allergies are not suitable for this tour. Also, the weight limit of 209 lbs (95 kg) is strictly enforced for safety reasons.

The Experience Provider

Ranch Kuulas organizes this tour, with guides speaking English and Finnish. They emphasize safety and comfort, making sure everyone feels supported along the way. The small group size fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and allows for tailored guidance.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This horseback ride in Rovaniemi suits travelers looking for a gentle, scenic experience that combines outdoor adventure with farm life. It’s ideal for beginners—those who might be a little nervous on a horse but want to try—or for anyone seeking a peaceful escape into Lapland’s winter landscape.

If you love animals, authentic local stories, and tranquil nature, this tour offers a genuine taste of rural Lapland. It’s also a great option for families with older children who meet the age and weight requirements, and who enjoy a slow, scenic outdoor activity.

Final Thoughts

This winter horseback ride offers an authentic, peaceful way to enjoy Lapland’s snowy beauty. It’s more than just a ride; it’s an opportunity to connect with farm life, meet friendly animals, and breathe in the crisp, fresh air amid a winter landscape that feels like a scene from a storybook.

While it’s not designed for high-adrenaline thrill-seekers or those with mobility issues, it delivers real value for beginners, nature lovers, and those wanting a calm, scenic excursion. The small group format, warm ending, and personal stories from guides make it a memorable, authentic experience.

If you’re after a quiet, scenic adventure that blends outdoor activity with local farm insights, this tour warrants a spot on your Lapland itinerary. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to spend a few hours in one of the world’s most beautiful winter settings.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all levels, with a quick riding introduction and support from guides throughout the ride.

What should I wear?
Bring warm, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. Layers work best, as you’ll be outdoors in the snow.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 12 are not eligible for this activity, mainly due to safety and age restrictions.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the stables isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own or opt for a pickup if available.

What animals will I meet?
Besides the horses, you can meet other farm animals like sheep, dogs, and cats, which adds a personal touch to the experience.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
The tour has a weight limit of 209 lbs (95 kg) for safety reasons.

This horseback riding experience in Rovaniemi offers a genuine, scenic look at Lapland’s winter landscape combined with a taste of farm life. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a peaceful, authentic outdoor activity that’s easy to enjoy regardless of riding experience.