Daredevil winter sports in Finland

Alpine skiing (Tunturihiihto)

Since the earliest known use of the word “suksi” (ski) in 6000 BC, skiing has been a major part of Finnish culture. Given the amount of snowfall Finland experiences yearly, it’s easy to see why. But skiing is not just for practicality. Whether it’s downhill or cross-country you’re after, the stunning terrain caters for all.

For the most adventurous, however, alpine skiing is the one to go for. Finnish Lapland’s fells are vast and offer endless possibilities for solitary travels where one has no need for tracks to follow.

SNOWBOARDING

Finland is well-known for its many, internationally accomplished snowboarders. Finland may not have the biggest mountains, but we have a large amount of ski resorts across the country, and even the smallest of them usually have well-maintained parks for snowboarders. Tracks are maintained to the highest level and there’s something for all skill levels. The off piste opportunities in Lapland also provide breathtaking sceneries and excellent terrain for those who like to explore off the beaten track.

Ice climbing

Though there’s not much by way of large mountains in Finland, ice climbing sites – and good ones at that – are not hard to come by. A truly unique way to see the country’s stunning landscapes, ice climbing in Finland is made possible from the freezing of streams in winter.

Few places offer better ice climbing than Korouoma. Through a variety of providers, including Stella Polaris Lapland and Bliss Adventure, you can hit any number of climbs this area has to offer. Ranging in difficulty from WI3 to WI6, it’s not for the faint hearted. Then again, anything that is probably isn’t worth doing.

Diving under ice

For a sport officially just over 20 years old, Finland’s 180 diving clubs show just how high the popularity of this exhilarating (and for some, perplexing) pastime is. While more comfortable diving conditions are available during the summer, the thrill-seekers will want to hit the take to the country’s winter waters. Supervision is recommended, as is a dry suit, but once you’ve broken the ice, there’s a veritable feast for the eyes, with the country’s archipelagos presenting some stunning locations, as well as a myriad of shipwrecks to catch a glimpse of.

Just one heads up – make sure you’ve got a steaming hot sauna waiting for you once you return to land!

Photo: Oulu Dive Center / Ice Diving Experience

Snow-kiting

Finland is home to some of the greatest snow-kiting locations there are. The country’s long winters provide months of guaranteed snow as well as rivers and lakes frozen from winter through to spring.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the country’s deep snow, wide open spaces and accompanying strong gales make it ideal for snow-kiting. There’s no shortage of options either. Whether you go all the way up to Lapland’s Saariselkä fells or the internationally renowned winter sports hub Lahti down south, our country’s vast terrain is yours to kite around.

For a more modest version of snow-kiting you can head to the sea around the capital – Munkkiniemi, very near central Helsinki, is a great place to start and meet a bunch of other devotees.

Snowmobiling

All over Finland there are a variety of companies offering guided snowmobile tours and safaris. But for those that want to get off the beaten track, you need not go too far, for there are plenty of more adventurous approaches to travelling on these “motorcycles on snow”.

The clear skies, blankets of fallen snow and peaceful surroundings offer a wonderful view and contrast while you tear through the varied terrain at speeds of up to 100+ kilometres per hour. While safety is of course of the utmost importance, we assure you this will be an adrenaline rush you’ll never forget.