Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village

The Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland offers a charming introduction to Lapland’s natural beauty through a slow-paced horseback ride. Priced at $124.62 per person, this approximately 1-hour experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, family-friendly adventure. Open to individuals over 7 years old and weighing less than 120kg (265 pounds), it welcomes beginners and experienced riders alike. With an emphasis on safety and comfort, the tour includes a comprehensive horse introduction, a 30-40 minute trek, and warm drinks with gingerbread cookies and marshmallows by the fire afterward. This tour is highly recommended, with 92% of participants rating it as a worthwhile activity, and is typically booked 36 days in advance.

While the ride itself is gentle and slow, the real highlight is the chance to enjoy Lapland’s changing seasons, from autumn’s colorful foliage to winter’s snowy landscapes and summer’s midnight sun—offering a different scenic backdrop each time. The tour’s small group size, capped at five travelers, ensures a personal experience, and the included safety gear—helmet and cap—adds an extra layer of reassurance.

Key Points

• Gentle horseback riding suitable for beginners and families
• Calm Finnhorses known for their reliability and friendliness
• Includes a warm drink, gingerbread, and marshmallows after the ride
• Tour departs from Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
• Booking typically 36 days in advance; limited to 5 travelers
• Weather-dependent: rides may be altered or canceled in poor conditions

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics at Santa Claus Village

The tour begins at Aurora Horses, located on Joulumaantie, 96930 Rovaniemi, Finland. Guests meet at this designated spot for a short safety briefing and horse introduction. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to continue exploring Santa Claus Village afterward.

The tour operates with mobile tickets, ensuring quick and contactless entry. Since public transportation is nearby, it’s convenient to reach the start point without hassle. The group size is small, with a maximum of five participants, fostering a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

Experience on the Finnhorse: From Autumn to Winter

The Finnhorse itself is described as a cooperative, sweet, and reliable riding partner. The gentle nature of these horses makes the experience accessible for all skill levels. Depending on the season, the scenery varies dramatically:

• In autumn, expect vivid forest colors and rustling leaves.
• During winter, you’ll notice snow-covered trees and the crunch of snow beneath the hooves, creating a peaceful, festive atmosphere.
• In spring, bright sunshine reflects on the snow while migratory birds sing, adding a lively touch.
• In summer, the horses typically vacation in pastures, but the experience focuses on the tranquil riding in the forest.

The slow pace of the ride ensures that no prior riding experience is necessary, making it perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed connection with nature.

The Ride Itself: Safety, Comfort, and Connection

Before the trek, the guides provide a comprehensive safety briefing to ensure all participants feel comfortable. Each rider is then introduced to their Finnhorse, with careful attention to safety and companionship. The riding duration is about 30-40 minutes, depending on weather conditions, and all riding is set at a pace suitable for less experienced riders.

The horses are known for their calm and friendly nature, making the experience smooth and enjoyable. The guides, praised for their kindness and knowledge, foster a supportive environment, making even first-time riders feel supported.

Post-Ride Warmth and Stories at the Fire

After the ride, guests gather around a campfire where they are served warm drinks, gingerbread cookies, and marshmallows. This cozy ending allows for conversation and stories about Finnhorses, adding a cultural and personal touch to the experience. This part of the activity is highly appreciated, providing a warm, friendly conclusion to the scenic ride.

What to Wear and Practical Tips

Guests should come prepared with warm clothes suitable for riding, including shoes and gloves. Since a helmet is mandatory, it is provided as part of the package, along with a helmet cap. Weather conditions can vary from season to season, so appropriate gear is essential to enjoy the ride comfortably.

The tour’s flexibility in timing and weather conditions is a key advantage, with the option for rescheduling or full refund if weather causes cancellation.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This horseback ride appeals to a wide audience, including families, beginners, and those simply wanting to experience Lapland’s nature at a gentle pace. The small group size and friendly guides create an intimate environment that enhances the connection with the horses and scenery.

While the tour is not suitable for children under 7 or those with a weight over 120kg (265 pounds), those who meet the requirements will find it an accessible and enjoyable activity.

How This Tour Compares to Other Rovaniemi Experiences

Unlike more fast-paced or adventure-oriented excursions, this riding tour emphasizes relaxation, safety, and scenic beauty. It pairs well with other Santa Claus Village activities or as a peaceful highlight after long days of sightseeing.

The small group size and personal touch make it stand out, along with the opportunity to hear stories about Finnhorses and enjoy Lapland’s seasonal landscapes.

The Sum Up: A Relaxing Ride Through Lapland’s Seasons

The Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village delivers a gentle, scenic experience suitable for beginners and families alike. The calm Finnhorses and friendly guides ensure a safe journey, while the seasonal scenery provides stunning backdrops, whether covered in snow or bathed in summer sun.

Priced at $124.62, this activity offers a memorable way to connect with Lapland’s natural beauty in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of warm drinks by the fire adds a cozy touch that many visitors find delightful.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a slow-paced, scenic horseback ride in a small group, with the opportunity for informative storytelling and seasonal scenery. It’s a peaceful activity that complements more adventurous pursuits or offers a perfect pause to enjoy the tranquil Lapland landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior horseback riding experience needed?
No, the tour is designed for beginners with no previous riding experience required. The guides provide a full safety briefing and introduction to the horses.

What should I wear for the ride?
Guests should wear warm clothes suitable for riding, along with shoes and gloves. The helmet is provided and must be worn during the ride.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The ride lasts about 30-40 minutes, depending on weather conditions and group pace.

Can children participate?
Yes, children over 7 years old can join. The activity is suitable for families and those new to riding.

What is the maximum group size?
The group is limited to five travelers, ensuring a personal and relaxed experience.

What happens in bad weather?
If the weather is poor, the activity may be canceled or rescheduled. Full refunds or alternative dates are available if cancellation occurs due to weather.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes helmet and cap, and after the ride, guests enjoy warm drinks, gingerbread cookies, and marshmallows by the campfire.

Is this tour suitable during winter?
Yes, winter is a popular time, with snow-covered scenery and the snow crunching beneath the horses’ hooves. The ride adapts to winter conditions for a scenic experience.