Rovaniemi: Lakeside Private Sauna with Aurora Borealis

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights while relaxing in a traditional Finnish sauna, the Rovaniemi Lakeside Private Sauna with Aurora Borealis might be just what you’re after. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the experience description, it sounds like a genuine, peaceful way to connect with Lapland’s legendary skies and chilly serenity.

What we really like about this tour is the personal touch—it’s a private experience, guided by knowledgeable locals, and includes the classic Finnish sauna that so many travelers rave about. Plus, the chance to see the Aurora Borealis dance above your head, if the weather cooperates, is pretty unbeatable. On the flip side, you might want to keep in mind that Northern Lights sightings can’t be guaranteed—they’re totally weather and solar activity dependent. That’s just part of the Arctic adventure.

This experience suits those who want a relaxed, authentic Arctic moment—not a frantic chase or crowded tour. If you’re prepared for cold temperatures, don’t mind a bit of waiting, and value a personalized, scenic environment, you’ll likely find this outing rewarding. Families with children over 11 might enjoy it too, though younger kids need to be accompanied, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Key Points

• Personalized and private experience in a lakeside setting
• Guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals who take good care of you
• Opportunity to see the Northern Lights (weather permitting)
• Includes traditional Finnish sauna, towels, slippers, and hot drinks
• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel within 10 km of Rovaniemi
• Requires swimwear (rent available if you don’t pack it)

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What This Tour Offers

This tour is designed for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, local culture, and a touch of the extraordinary. Starting with pickup at your accommodation in Rovaniemi, you’ll be whisked away to a lakeside spot—think peaceful, with the dark Arctic sky above, waiting for the Northern Lights to make an appearance.

Once there, your guide will introduce you to the Finnish sauna experience. The sauna is traditional, hygienic, and offers plenty of personal space—something many reviews highlight as a positive aspect. It’s a perfect spot to warm up after being outside, especially if the weather is brisk. You’ll also have access to a towel and slippers, making the experience comfortable and fuss-free. And, of course, hot drinks are included, perfect for cozying up and chatting or simply warming your hands.

The Sauna Itself: A Classic Finnish Treat

The sauna experience in Finland is about more than just about sweating—it’s a social ritual, a way to unwind and connect with nature. Sitting in the warm heat while the icy landscape surrounds you creates a unique contrast. Several reviews mention the cleanliness and the personal space as major pluses, which is no small feat considering how popular saunas are across Lapland.

Viewing the Aurora: A Beautiful, Unpredictable Show

The highlight for many is the chance—though never guaranteed—to see the Northern Lights. Several reviews describe the moment as magical, with one traveler even saying, “the sky opened up with a fine show of Aurora for us.” But it’s important to remember, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Be prepared for the possibility that the lights might not dance above you, but even then, the experience of being out in the Arctic winter night is memorable.

The Experience Duration: Just Enough Time

With a total duration of about 3 hours, this tour feels well-paced. It’s long enough to relax, enjoy the sauna, and soak up the atmosphere without feeling exhausted or rushed. Many reviewers appreciated this, noting it was an ideal length for a meaningful experience without overdoing it.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers pickup and drop-off within 10 km of Rovaniemi, meaning you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics—just relax and enjoy. The guide speaks English, although other languages are available on request, which makes it accessible for most travelers.

You’ll get a dedicated guide who shares insights about Lapland and the Northern Lights, adding context to your experience. The sauna itself is one hour long, with towels, slippers, and hot drinks included, making the experience feel well-rounded and comfortable.

A notable point is the need to bring swimwear, as it’s not included. You can rent one for €15 if needed, which could be worth it for those wanting to take a dip in a frozen lake or just to cool off after the sauna. The reviews highlight how hygienic and spacious the sauna facilities are, which can make a big difference in how much you enjoy it.

Additional Practicalities:

• Children aged 11+ can participate when accompanied by paying adults.
• Infants (under 2) are free, but consider whether small children are suitable for cold outdoor experiences.
• The tour requires at least 2 people on weekdays and Saturdays, and 4 on Sundays and holidays, so check availability beforehand.

What the Reviews Reveal

Among the 83 reviews, an impressive 4.2/5 rating shows that most travelers find this experience worthwhile. Many praise the guides, especially mentioning how knowledgeable and friendly they are. One reviewer, Michael, loved the personalized service, and how the Aurora lit up the sky during their visit, calling it “incredibly memorable.” He even mentioned that the trip became extra special when he proposed—adding a personal, heartfelt touch to his Arctic adventure.

Tugce described her experience of swimming in a frozen lake under the Aurora as “fantastic,” emphasizing how clean and spacious the sauna was, as well as the helpfulness of the guide. Debra’s shout-out to Edgar highlighted how a good host can make all the difference, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

From these reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a highlight—helpful, friendly, and passionate—which adds a lot to the overall vibe. The scenery and the chance to see the Northern Lights are what make this experience special, even if, as with all Aurora hunts, they’re not guaranteed.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, this tour offers a cozy, well-organized Arctic experience that balances authenticity, comfort, and a dash of magic. The inclusion of transport, guide, sauna, and hot drinks makes it a solid package, especially if you’re looking for something less hectic than a full-day adventure.

The price can seem steep for just a few hours, but when you consider the personalized service, the beautiful lakeside setting, and the chance to see the Aurora, it feels more like an investment in a memorable moment rather than just a ticket.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate experience with a focus on local culture and nature. You won’t find large crowds or loud tours here, just a peaceful evening under the Arctic sky with good company and warm sauna.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour is best for those who value authenticity and comfort. It’s ideal if you want a private, guided experience that’s flexible and personalized. It’s perfect for couples celebrating something special, or anyone wanting a peaceful Arctic night away from busy tourist spots. Remember, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and young children over 11 are welcome when accompanied by adults.

If your main goal is seeing the Northern Lights, this could be a great pick, but keep your expectations flexible—they’re subject to weather and solar activity. If you’re after a more active Arctic adventure, this might feel a bit too laid-back, but if you want to unwind in a beautiful setting, it hits the right notes.

FAQ

Do I need to bring anything? Yes, you should bring swimwear if you want to take a dip or cool off, though rental options are available for €15.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including pickup, sauna time, and transfer back.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed? No—Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so it’s best to keep expectations flexible.

What languages do guides speak? The primary language is English, but other languages can be requested.

Is it suitable for families? Children aged 11 and above can participate when accompanied by adults. Younger children are not specifically mentioned as part of this experience.

How many people are in each group? The experience is private, but minimum group sizes apply—2 people on weekdays and Saturdays, 4 on Sundays and holidays.

To sum it up, if you’re after a peaceful, authentic Lapland experience with a good chance to see the Aurora, the lakeside sauna tour offers a cozy, guided way to enjoy the Arctic night. It’s a quiet, personal experience that values quality over quantity, perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a memorable night in the North. Just remember, patience and a bit of luck with the weather are key, but the warm sauna, welcoming guides, and scenic setting promise a special evening regardless of the sky’s show.

You can check availability for your dates here: