Levi: Snowshoeing and Marshmallow Grilling in the Snow

Exploring Finland’s Lapland on a snowshoeing tour offers a special way to connect with the winter landscape, especially when it’s combined with the cozy charm of roasting marshmallows around a campfire. This experience by Hiutale Adventures is designed to give you a taste of Arctic tranquility, guided by local experts who know the area inside out. It’s an activity that balances adventure with relaxed moments, making it suitable for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Lapland’s natural beauty.

One of the standout features of this tour is the chance to learn how to build a campfire safely in the snow—a skill that adds a layer of authenticity to your Arctic experience. Plus, the scenery itself is simply breathtaking: snow-covered trees, pristine white landscapes, and the quiet that only winter in Lapland can provide. A minor consideration might be the need for appropriate winter clothing, as the tour doesn’t include gear, but with proper preparation, it’s an absolutely worthwhile outing. This activity suits those looking for a family-friendly, fun outdoor adventure that’s lighter on adrenaline but rich in natural wonder and cozy moments.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Learn snowshoeing and fire-building from local guides.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids over 12, making it a lovely outdoor activity for families.
• Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy snow-covered landscapes and the peaceful silence of Lapland.
• Includes Warm Treats: Roast marshmallows and sip hot chocolate in the snow.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 5 participants ensure personalized attention.
• Cost-Effective: At $159 per person, the experience offers good value for a genuine Arctic adventure.

Discovering the Unique Appeal of the Tour

This two-and-a-half-hour tour from Levi provides a well-rounded introduction to winter activities in Lapland. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to actively participate and learn about the environment. The focus on snowshoeing means you’ll get a gentle workout while exploring the snow-blanketed terrain, with the guidance of knowledgeable locals who share insights into the flora and fauna of the area.

What makes this tour special is its combination of outdoor activity and authentic storytelling. The guides, such as those from Hiutale Adventures, are praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and depth of local knowledge. For instance, one review mentions how guides “taught us how to choose a safe location for fire-building,” which isn’t just practical but also deeply engaging for those interested in survival skills or nature.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Meeting Points

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from four locations around Levi: Zero Point Rental, Visit Levi / Levin Matkailuneuvonta, Design Hotel Levi, or Hotel Levi Panorama. This flexibility allows travelers staying at different accommodations to join easily. It’s worth noting that transportation to the meeting point isn’t included in the tour price, so plan your morning commute accordingly.

The Snowshoeing Adventure

Once gathered, you’ll head out with your guide into the snowy landscape. The snowshoeing itself is accessible and suitable for beginners—perfect if you’ve never tried it before. The guides will teach you how to select a safe spot, especially in an environment where dry branches and twigs stand upright in the snow, ideal for fire-starting.

Campfire and Marshmallow Roasting

The highlight for many is learning how to build a campfire in this pristine snow environment. The guides emphasize safety and respect for nature, showing you how to gather dry materials and start a fire without damaging the surroundings. Afterward, you’ll toast homemade Lappish marshmallows over the flames—a sweet treat that adds a cozy touch to this outdoor adventure. In cool weather, the hot chocolate provided is a small but appreciated comfort, enhancing the experience.

Nature and Wildlife

Throughout the walk, the guides share insights about the local flora and fauna. Some guests mentioned how this added educational value to the tour, transforming a simple snow hike into a meaningful wilderness experience. Expect to hear about the Arctic plants and animals that survive in harsh winter conditions, which can deepen your appreciation for this unique ecosystem.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

The tour includes a scenic drive or walk to spots with particularly stunning views. Expect plenty of chances to snap photos of snow-laden trees, distant hills, and the quiet wilderness. This is not a high-adrenaline tour but rather one that allows you to soak in the surroundings at a relaxed pace.

End of Tour and Drop-off

After the campfire and some leisure time, you’ll be driven back to one of the four designated drop-off points, similar to your pickup locations. The small group size ensures a comfortable, personalized experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $159, the tour covers the essentials: guides, snowshoes and poles, hot chocolate, and marshmallows. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point and bring appropriate winter clothing. The activity isn’t suitable for children under 12, making it more targeted toward families with older kids or adults seeking a peaceful outdoor escape.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly in layers—thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outerwear are key to staying comfortable.
• Wear waterproof shoes or boots to keep your feet dry and warm.
• Remember, fire-building is not permitted outside the designated areas, so follow your guide’s instructions carefully.
• Make sure to book early, especially in peak winter months, as small group sizes mean spots fill quickly.

Authentic Experience and Authenticity

Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and personal touch. One reviewer noted how their guide “knew exactly how to make everyone comfortable, sharing stories along the way,” which made the experience feel warm even in the cold. The focus on respecting nature and practicing fire safety makes this a responsible outdoor activity, not just a touristy gimmick.

Overall Value and Suitability

While the price might seem modest compared to larger excursions, the tour offers genuine value—especially considering the small group size and the quality of guiding. It’s a wonderful entry-level experience for those new to winter activities or travelers seeking a family-friendly outdoor adventure. The combination of stunning scenery, interactive learning, and cozy marshmallow roasting makes it a memorable addition to any Lapland itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is ideal for families with children over 12, outdoor lovers, or anyone curious about Lapland’s natural environment. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, educational, and scenic experience that doesn’t involve long hours or strenuous activity. If you’re seeking pure adventure like snowmobiling or reindeer sled rides, you might prefer other experiences, but for a gentle, authentic taste of Lapland, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

Levi’s Snowshoeing and Marshmallow Grilling tour offers a genuine, approachable look into Lapland’s winter wonderland. With an emphasis on learning outdoor skills, enjoying scenery, and sharing cozy moments around a campfire, it strikes a balance that appeals to a broad range of travelers. If you enjoy being outside, appreciate nature’s quiet beauty, and want to add a memorable, family-friendly activity to your trip, this is a fantastic choice.

While it’s not a high-intensity adventure, it compensates with authenticity, stunning views, and expert guidance. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the included treats make the experience warm and inviting despite the cold. For those wanting a taste of Lapland’s tranquility mixed with a bit of fun and education, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel to the designated pickup locations around Levi.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof shoes or boots. Since the activity involves building fires and standing in the snow, proper winter clothing is essential.

Is this activity suitable for children?
The tour is suitable for children over 12 years old. It’s a family-friendly activity, but younger children might find the cold or activity format less engaging.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including snowshoeing, fire-building, roasting marshmallows, and scenic stops.

What’s included in the price?
Guides, snowshoes and poles, hot chocolate, and marshmallows are included. You’ll need to bring your own winter gear.

Are guides bilingual or only English-speaking?
The tour is conducted by live guides in English, which suits most travelers seeking clear, friendly explanations.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

In summary, Levi’s Snowshoeing and Marshmallow Grilling tour represents a charming and authentic way to experience the Arctic outdoors. It’s a wonderful choice for those after a relaxed, scenic, and educational winter activity with plenty of opportunities to make cozy memories.