Harriniva and Jeris – Northern Lights Quest
- Details
Details
Harriniva Wilderness Hotel sits 230km above the Arctic Circle at 67 degrees north, placing it in prime Aurora territory. Our Northern Lights Quest combines thrilling daytime activities with dedicated evening excursions to maximise your chances of witnessing the incredible Northern Lights.
During the day, experience the best of Lapland with exhilarating activities. Mush your own team of huskies through the snowy wilderness, feeling the rush of this unforgettable Arctic adventure. Then, hop on a snowmobile and speed across frozen fells, taking in breathtaking winter scenery. After action-packed days, unwind in the hotel's sauna - a true Finnish tradition and the perfect way to relax.
For dedicated Aurora hunters, the Northern Lights Quest includes carefully planned evening activities designed to optimise your viewing opportunities. Expert local guides lead you to remote locations, far from artificial lights, where the skies are at their clearest. You can also personalise your adventure by adding an Aurora Snowshoeing experience. Snowshoeing has been used for centuries by Arctic communities to navigate deep snow and remains an incredible way to explore. Step into the wilderness, follow your guide through the untouched landscape, and, with luck, witness the Northern Lights dancing above.
This holiday also includes an introduction to the science behind the Aurora, helping you understand how and why this mesmerising phenomenon appears. One evening, you'll gather around a crackling campfire at a dedicated Aurora viewing site, enjoying warm drinks as you scan the skies.
Beyond Aurora hunting, this trip offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Explore Lapland by day, seek the lights by night, and embrace the magic of the Arctic. Our Northern Lights Quest promises unforgettable experiences in one of the world's best locations for Aurora spotting.
Image credits: Antti Pietikäinen
Important Information
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only. Your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which will be emailed to you around a week prior to departure), or upon arrival.
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Lapland, you will be transferred to your accommodation at either Hotel Harriniva or Hotel Jeris. You will check in to your rooms before dinner in the hotel restaurant. You’ll be provided with the information for your Aurora app and we also recommend taking a wander in the area surrounding the hotel just in case the Lights appear to welcome you.
Included Meals: Dinner
A husky safari truly encapsulates the spirit of Arctic adventure and today you will head into the wilderness with your eager team of dogs on a 15km safari through this stunning winter wonderland. The enthusiasm the dogs share for the trail is infectious and this is sure to be a real highlight. This activity lasts around two to three hours in total.
Our guides are all local experts and have a real passion for the Lights and their region – they make ideal Aurora hunting companions. The guides are always keen to share their knowledge and experiences and so this evening you will receive an Aurora workshop which will last around 1 hour. The aim of the workshop is to give you the background information you will need before your inaugural Northern Lights adventure.
Together with your guide, you will head out into the wilderness in a carriage which will be pulled behind the guide’s snowmobile. The type of carriage will depend on the availability and the weather on the day. You will head out to a campfire site where the guide will light a fire and everyone can enjoy a warm drink and snack around the fire. Everyone will keep their eyes skywards to hopefully enjoy a Northern Lights display too!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we have left free for you to relax at the hotel. Alternatively, additional activities can be booked (please see the ‘personalise‘ tab for more details) or you just hire some winter equipment (payable locally) like snowshoes or cross-country skis to try out some of the local’s favourite past times at your own pace.
This evening it is time for a bit of pampering which will vary depending on where you are staying. At Harriniva you will take the short walk to the hot tub area where you can sit and soak in the warm water (remember your hat!) and look out on the frozen river below which has been the site for numerous lucky Northern Lights viewers before you!
If you are staying at Hotel Jeris then we have included entry to the Arctic Sauna World this evening. Built in 2019 this spa setting is home to four different element saunas to relax and unwind. There is also an option for an ice dip (for the very brave!) the sauna world looks out to the frozen lake Jerisjärvi where the Northern Lights are commonly seen by guests in the hotel and locals alike.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today is all about speed! After breakfast you will head out on a thrilling snowmobile safari, allowing you to explore much further into your winter wonderland surroundings. Full instruction and tuition will be provided before you head into the wilderness, crossing frozen lakes and winding through forest trails. The safari will cover approximately 30km.
A final dinner in the hotel restaurant and last opportunity for any additional Aurora hunting activities or why not upgrade your final night to the Arctic Firefox lodge (see our ‘Personalise‘ tab), to end your stay in real style!
Today you will transfer to the airport to catch your return flights home after a truly memorable adventure in Lapland.
Included Meals: Breakfast
What's included?
- Flights from London Heathrow to Kittila (via Helsinki). Flight routes are subject to change.
- Return airport transfers
- 4 nights double/ twin hotel room at either Hotel Harriniva or Hotel Jeris
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 dinners (option to upgrade to full board available)
- Husky Safari
- Secrets of the Northern Lights and Aurora Snow Shuttle
- Northern Lights hot tub or Arctic Sauna World Visit (depending on accommodation choice)
- Snowmobile safari
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
- Tea and coffee at the hotel
- Daily hotel sauna
- Fully qualified wilderness guides and instructor
- 24/7 assistance from our UK-based operations team and in-destination support from our local partners
Presale Pricing
| Dates | Adult price (per person) | Child Price | |||||
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| Dates | 05 Jan 26 - 09 Jan 26 | Adult price (per person) | £2265pp | Child (age 12-14) | N/A | Enquire | |
| Dates | Adult price (per person) | Child Price | |||||
| Dates | 12 Jan 26 - 06 Feb 26 | Adult price (per person) | £2075pp | Child (age 12-14) | N/A | Enquire | |
| Dates | Adult price (per person) | Child Price | |||||
| Dates | 09 Feb 26 - 13 Mar 26 | Adult price (per person) | £2205pp | Child (age 12-14) | N/A | Enquire | |
| Dates | Adult price (per person) | Child Price | |||||
| Dates | 16 Mar 26 - 03 Apr 26 | Adult price (per person) | £2015pp | Child (age 12-14) | N/A | Enquire | |
Secure your dream holiday today with an initial deposit of just £100 per person! When the itineraries are finalised, you’ll have first refusal to book onto the tour at pre-sale prices. You will have 14 days to make your decision. Please note: Prices are subject to availability at the respective hotels and may change.
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Accommodation
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Ideally located in the north-west corner of Finland, high above the Arctic Circle and in the very heart of the Aurora Zone, Harriniva Adventure Resort serves as a perfect base for your adventure holiday.
Welcoming guests for lover 50 years now, the hotel has developed a growing reputation for its warm ambience and the large range of enjoyable activities on offer.
Hotel facilities
The hotel has a range of facilities that have been designed to make your stay here as enjoyable as possible.
- There is free Wi-Fi throughout the main building for guest use, in our experience, we have found it works best in the main reception and dining area
- The hotel restaurant has a lively, buzzing atmosphere as people excitedly discuss the adventures they have taken part in that day. The meals are served in a buffet style with two or three choices for each course. The food here is hearty and wholesome
- The hotel also has a pub serving a range of beers, wines and spirits – this is the perfect place to unwind and relax with your fellow guests in the evening
- Tea and coffee are available free of charge throughout the day in the hotel restaurant / bar area.
- In the main reception area of the hotel, you will find a small gift shop selling a range of postcards, soft toys and handcrafted products. There is also a selection of snacks that can be purchased
- A sauna is available for guest use with separate facilities for men and women. This is free of charge and is heated every evening for around three hours
- The hotel also has an Aurora Wellness Centre (situated a short walk away on the riverbank), where you can enjoy a range of therapies such as facials or massages. A real treat after a day of soaking up the pristine wilderness! During peak periods, we would strongly recommend booking therapies in advance through reception (all payable locally and we recommend booking in advance if possible)
- Snowshoes and cross country skis are available to hire for a small charge and there are marked trails surrounding the hotel for those with some experience. For those interested in downhill skiing, reception will be able to arrange a taxi to the nearby ski resort of Olos (payable locally)
Double Room
Harriniva has 64 guest bedrooms which consist of twin or double rooms. Triple rooms are also available on request. Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, all rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer.
Twin Room
Harriniva has 64 guest bedrooms which consist of twin or double rooms. Triple rooms are also available on request. Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, all rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer.
Wilderness Plus Double Room
Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, these bedrooms were refurbished in 2018. The rooms include double/twin beds and an unfolding sofa suitable for 1 adult or 2 children. All rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer, as well as a small seating area.
Wilderness Plus Twin Room
Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, these bedrooms were refurbished in 2018. The rooms include double/twin beds and an unfolding sofa suitable for 1 adult or 2 children. All rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer, as well as a small seating area.
Wilderness Suite
Spacious wilderness style room, decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, these rooms were refurbished in 2018. Located on the ground floor, close to reception these rooms include double/twin beds and an unfolding sofa suitable for 1 adult or 2 children. All rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer, as well as a small seating area.
Safari House
For those travelling on our longer husky or snowmobile experiences, your nights at the hotel will be spent in shared accommodation in one of Harriniva’s Safari Houses. Each has sleeping facilities, a shower room, toilet and a sauna. Some safari houses are on site, whereas others are located 3km from the hotel. If you are staying off-site, you will be transferred to and from the hotel for meals.
Harriniva Riverside Cabins
3 nights safari house or hotel accommodation and 4 nights in wilderness cabin accommodation (shared)
Wilderness Cabin
2 nights safari house and 2 nights shared cabin or apartment
Single Room
Sauna Room Plus
Sauna Room
4 nights safari house and 4 nights wilderness cabins. All shared.
Aurora Dome (Not Keeping Original Accommodation)
Aurora Hut (not keeping original accommodation)
Arctic Firefox Lodge
2 nights safari house or hotel accommodation and 4 nights in wilderness cabin accommodation (shared)
Snow Igloo
Double Room (single occupancy)
Tybe B Cabin at Jeris
Cabin A Jeris
6 nights hotel room and 1 night in wilderness cabin accommodation
6 nights in Cabin A and 1 night in wilderness cabin
6 nights in a Wilderness Plus room and 1 night in wilderness cabin accommodation
6 nights in Riverside cabin and 1 night in Wilderness Cabin
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| Jeris Lakeside Resort occupies an enviable location which is 20 kilometres from the nearest village and is located directly on the shores of Lake Jerisjärvi. It is this remote position that makes the hotel an enchanting forest retreat. This hotel always receives high praise for its knowledgeable guides and exciting activity options from guests who have stayed here. The hotel consists of a central building and 32 winter cottages in the adjacent forest. Hotel facilities
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Double Room
In the main hotel building at Jeris, there are 27 comfortable traditional bedrooms. All guest bedrooms have an en-suite shower room, a drying cupboard and television. A limited amount of hairdryers are available from reception.
Twin Room
In the main hotel building at Jeris, there are 27 comfortable traditional bedrooms. All guest bedrooms have an en-suite shower room, a drying cupboard and television. A limited amount of hairdryers are available from reception.
Type A Winter Cottage
Guests can choose to upgrade their accommodation at Jeris and spend their holiday in one of the Type A winter cottages.
The Type A winter cottages are generally located around a 10 minute walk from the main hotel building. The cottages are ideal for couples looking for a private retreat.
The cottages can vary slightly in size but all can sleep two to four people. They consist of one spacious room with a sleeping alcove for two people and a pull out sofa bed for two more. All the cottages are privately owned; consequently the decor and style can vary. Each cottage contains a cosy wood burning stove, a kitchenette, a television, a shower room and a private sauna.
Type C Winter Cottage
Type B Winter Cottage
Aurora Dome
Firefox Lodge
Wilderness Cabin
Single room
Aurora Hut (keeping room)
2 nights hotel room accommodation, 1 night in an Aurora Hut
Suite
Aurora Hut
(6 nights hotel room and 1 night in wilderness cabin accommodation)
Aurora Hut (not keeping the room)
6 nights in Type A cottage and 1 night in Wilderness cabin
Personalise This Tour
This Aurora hunting session will see your guide lead you on foot as you use snowshoes and headlamps to navigate your way to an ideal Aurora viewpoint. Warm drinks will be served as you watch the skies for a potential Northern Lights display.
Total duration: approximately 2-3 hours
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Tour Map
Key Facts
For your best chance to see the Northern Lights, contact the UK’s only Aurora specialists
