Rovaniemi: Berry Picking Tour with Traditional Laavu

Exploring Lapland’s lush forests around Rovaniemi becomes an enjoyable adventure with the Berry Picking Tour with Traditional Laavu. Spanning approximately 2 hours, this experience offers a charming blend of nature strolls, berry hunting, and Finnish culinary treats in a small group setting. The tour is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities, want to taste authentic Finnish snacks, and are comfortable walking in forested terrain. It is especially suited for travelers seeking a short, immersive taste of Lapland’s natural environment combined with traditional Finnish hospitality.

One of the standout features of this tour is the opportunity to pick seasonally available berries such as blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries during the months of July to September. Accompanying the berry hunting are cooking demonstrations over an open fire at specially equipped “laavu” shelters, where roasting sausages and tasting Finnish pies and sweets bring the experience to life. The tour includes transfers, drinks, and tasty Finnish foods, making it a well-rounded outing designed for small groups of up to 10 participants.

Key Points

• Duration and departure: The tour lasts about 2 hours with flexible start times; check availability to find a suitable slot.
• Location and setting: It takes place around Rovaniemi, in the forests of Lapland, with easy walks on forest paths.
• What’s included: Transfer, berry hunting, sampling Finnish pies and sweets, sausages cooked over an open fire, drinks, and berry collection tools.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for forest walks, a reusable water bottle, and a collared shirt.
• Physical requirements: A basic level of physical ability to walk in the forest is needed; no specific equipment is required beyond comfortable shoes.
• Group size and guide: The experience is led by an English-speaking guide and limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Rovaniemi Forest Berries and Finnish Feast Experience

The tour begins with an easy walk along forest paths, where seasonal berries are ripe for picking. The guide explains how to identify and collect blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries, providing buckets and mosquito nets to ensure comfort during harvesting. This activity offers a hands-on way to connect with Lapland’s natural environment, with the chance to taste berries straight from the bush.

Once the berry gathering is complete, the group moves to a designated “laavu” shelter. These fire-ready huts are equipped with benches, shelters, and fire pits, making them ideal for cooking and socializing. Making a fire is straightforward with the provided fire-starting tools, and roasting sausages over the open flames becomes a cozy highlight. The aroma of Finnish sausages cooking over fire blends beautifully with the surrounding nature.

Traditional Laavu: The Perfect Firepit in the Forest

The “laavu” shelters serve as authentic Finnish fireplaces with benches and fire pits, designed for outdoor cooking and gathering. These shelters are placed in forested areas that enhance the rustic experience, providing a comfortable yet traditional setting. The firemaking process is simple, and the guides are on hand to ensure safety and proper technique, allowing everyone to enjoy roasting sausages and tasting Finnish sweets in a relaxed atmosphere.

Tasting Finnish Pastries and Sweets in the Forest

After cooking, the tour includes a sampling of Finnish pies and sweets. These treats are enjoyed in the open air, with the smoky aroma of cooked sausages adding to the experience. The selection enhances the authentic feel of the tour, giving participants a taste of Finnish culinary traditions in the heart of Lapland’s wilderness.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking in forest terrain. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort, especially when moving around the fire pits and uneven paths. Bringing a reusable water bottle helps stay hydrated during the outdoor activity. The tour is designed for people with basic physical ability to walk but does not require specialized equipment beyond appropriate clothing.

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Logistics and Group Experience

The tour starts and ends in Rovaniemi, with transfers included. The small group size maximizes interaction and allows guides to provide personalized attention and answer questions about the local flora, Finnish cuisine, and forest safety. The experience is suitable for most ages, but babies under 1 year and people over 95 might find some aspects challenging.

Safety and Precautions

Participants are advised to bring mosquito spray if desired, though mosquito nets are provided. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted during the activity, and baby carriages are not suitable for the forest environment. The tour emphasizes respect for nature and safety precautions at the fire-making stations.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers. It’s possible to reserve now and pay later, which helps in planning without immediate financial commitment. This makes the experience accessible for those with flexible schedules or uncertain plans.

Why Choose the Rovaniemi Berry Picking Tour?

This tour provides an authentic outdoor experience, blending berry gathering, fire-cooked food, and Finnish treats. The small group format ensures a personal touch, and the focus on nature and cuisine makes it ideal for those wanting a taste of Lapland’s outdoor life without a lengthy commitment. The included transportation simplifies logistics, and the seasonal berry picking adds a special touch that varies with the time of year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for children over 1 year old, provided they can walk comfortably in forest terrain.

What kind of berries can I expect to pick?
During July to September, you can pick blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries.

Do I need to bring my own food or equipment?
No, the tour provides buckets, mosquito nets, and berry collection tools. You should wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking.

Can I participate if I don’t like berries?
While berry picking is optional, the main highlight is the experience of harvesting berries and cooking over the fire, which can be enjoyable even without tasting.

Is the experience physically demanding?
The activity involves easy walks on forest paths, suitable for most physically able participants, but comfortable shoes are essential.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transfer, berry picking, sampling Finnish pies and sweets, sausages cooked over an open fire, drinks, and berry collection tools.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, a reusable water bottle, and a collared shirt for sun protection.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and baby carriages are unsuitable for the forest paths.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.

This Rovaniemi Berry Picking Tour with Traditional Laavu offers a charming, practical way to enjoy Lapland’s natural beauty while sampling authentic Finnish foods. With its focus on seasonal berries, fire-cooked sausages, and small-group intimacy, it makes for an enriching short outing perfect for nature lovers and cuisine enthusiasts alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby