If you’re dreaming of exploring the pristine, snow-covered wilderness of Lapland on horseback, this private 2-hour tour in Simo offers a compelling option. While we haven’t personally saddled up in these cold Finnish woods, the reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a unique experience that blends natural beauty with the thrill of riding in winter’s quiet.
What immediately catches our eye are the beautiful forest trails and the personalized nature of the private group, making this feel like a tailored escape. Plus, the chance to warm up afterward with a hot drink adds a cozy touch that many travelers appreciate. On the flip side, the journey requires some planning, as reaching Simo involves driving on potentially slippery roads — not ideal if you’re relying on public transportation or prefer a stress-free arrival.
This experience is best suited for those with horse riding experience, as it’s physically demanding and not recommended for beginners or those with certain health or mobility issues. If you’re an adventurous soul who loves winter landscapes and chilly outdoor activities, you’ll likely find this tour a memorable highlight of your Lapland trip.
Key Points
- Private and personalized experience with a guide
- Snow-covered forest and countryside trails for a peaceful ride
- All necessary equipment provided to keep you warm and safe
- Duration of 2 hours offers enough time to enjoy the landscape without overexerting
- Suitable for experienced riders comfortable in cold weather
- Post-ride hot drinks provide a warm finish to the adventure
An Honest Look at the Simo Horseback Riding Experience
If you’re heading to Lapland and want to see its winter beauty from the saddle, this tour offers an intimate way to connect with nature. The ride takes place across snowy paths, waters, and private forest areas, meaning you get to experience a variety of scenic spots untouched by crowds or traffic. Because the roads can be slippery during winter, you’ll want to drive carefully — especially if you’re not used to icy conditions.
The tour is set in the Sea-Lapland area of Simo, which is about 150 km from Rovaniemi and 35 km from Kemi. This means a bit of a drive, but it’s a chance to see some of that quiet Finnish countryside. You’ll need to rent a car, as there’s no public transportation, so planning ahead is a smart move. The roads can be challenging, especially during cold snaps, but the scenery makes the effort worthwhile.
Once you arrive at the farm, the process is straightforward. You’re fitted with winter gear like balaclavas, mittens, overalls, and helmets. The equipment is designed to keep you comfortable even when temperatures dip down to -20°C — crucial in winter, when cold can quickly sap your energy and enthusiasm. Interestingly, if it’s colder than -20°C and you’re an experienced rider, you might even ride without a saddle to stay warm, which hints at the tour’s flexibility for seasoned horse riders.
The actual ride lasts two hours, which is long enough to enjoy the peaceful silence of the forest and the snow-covered landscape without feeling exhausted. The trails are exclusive, with no other traffic, allowing you to focus solely on your ride and the scenery. If you’re experienced, you might even be able to canter or gallop behind the guide, adding a dash of excitement.
In summer, the tour makes a different kind of sense — avoiding mosquitoes and enjoying the lush greenery. But in winter, you’ll brave the cold, and the ride becomes more about the serenity and stark beauty of Lapland’s snowy wilderness.
What to Expect During Your Ride
The experience kicks off with a warm welcome at the farm in Simo, where you’ll meet your guide and get geared up. The check-in process is quick but thorough — safety is a priority, so expect helmets and warm clothing to be fitted before you set off. The provided equipment ensures you’re prepared for the cold, which is a big plus in winter.
The ride itself takes you through snowy paths and private forest trails that would be difficult to access on foot. The snow muffles any sound, making the environment incredibly peaceful. As you ride, you’ll enjoy the scenic Lapland landscape, perhaps catching glimpses of frozen waters and frosted trees.
For seasoned riders, the opportunity to canter or gallop behind the guide is a highlight. The trails are free of traffic, which means no noisy cars or other disturbances — just your horse, nature, and the quiet of winter. The experience is physically demanding, especially if you’re riding in very cold weather, so some prior horse riding experience is essential.
After the ride, you’re invited to curl up with a hot drink — options include coffee, tea, hot juice, or hot chocolate — a welcome way to warm up and reflect on the snowy adventure. If your timing coincides with clear weather, you might even catch the Northern Lights, adding a magical touch to your day.
The Practicalities: What You Need to Know
The tour lasts 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to a day of sightseeing or other winter activities. It’s a private group, which means your experience is personalized, and you won’t be sharing the trail with strangers.
Reservations are recommended at least a week or two in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak winter months. You can reserve now and pay later, offering some flexibility if your plans change.
The activity is accessible only to those with prior horse riding experience; it’s not suitable for complete beginners or those with certain health issues. You should bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing, emphasizing layers that can be adjusted as needed.
The activity is not canceled due to rain or cold weather, so be prepared for winter’s conditions — bundling up is essential. Also, arriving late results in no refund, so punctuality is key.
The Value for Your Money
At a glance, the price for this private 2-hour horseback riding tour might seem steep to some, especially given that it doesn’t include transportation. However, considering the personalized experience, all equipment, and scenic trail riding, many find it to be a good value. The exclusivity and the chance to ride in pristine winter conditions are hard to beat.
The experience is particularly worthwhile for experienced riders who enjoy winter landscapes and are comfortable in cold weather. It’s not aimed at beginners, but those who fit the bill will appreciate the quiet, the scenery, and the quality of the guide’s attention.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This is a great choice if you’re an experienced rider craving a peaceful ride through snow-laden forests in Lapland. It’s perfect for travelers who want a private, tailored outdoor adventure that combines natural beauty with a bit of physical activity.
If you’re looking for a simple, beginner-friendly introduction to riding or a family activity with children, this may not be ideal, as the activity is physically demanding and requires prior experience. And, since the tour takes place in remote conditions, those unaccustomed to driving in snowy, icy roads might want to weigh the travel logistics carefully.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this activity is not recommended for beginners. It requires previous horse riding experience due to its physically demanding nature.
What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing — layers are best, including a winter overall, mittens, and a hat or balaclava. All necessary safety gear is provided.
Can I ride without a saddle?
Yes, if it’s colder than -20°C and you’re an experienced rider, riding without a saddle might be an option to stay warmer.
How long does the ride last?
The actual horseback ride is 2 hours long, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and get a good feel for the landscape.
Is the experience private?
Yes, the tours are organized for private groups, so you’ll have a personalized experience without strangers in the mix.
What’s included?
All necessary equipment such as helmets, balaclavas, mittens, and winter overalls are provided to keep you safe and warm.
How do I get there?
You’ll need to rent a car to reach Simo, as there’s no public transportation. Drive carefully, especially in winter conditions.
What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals won’t be eligible for a refund, so plan to arrive on time.
Will I see the Northern Lights?
If you visit during the dark season and the weather permits, there’s a chance to see the Northern Lights after the ride.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility in case plans change.
Simo: Private 2-Hour Horseback Riding Tour
Final Thoughts
The Simo private horseback riding tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s snowy wilderness for those with riding experience and a love for quiet, scenic adventures. It balances the physical challenge with the reward of stunning winter landscapes and the warmth of a hot drink afterward.
If you’re after an authentic, personalized outdoor activity that lets you connect with Finland’s remote beauty, this ride fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited for experienced riders looking to spend a couple of hours in nature, away from crowds, in a landscape that’s both stark and stunning.
For those who enjoy winter sports and outdoor exploration, it’s a memorable way to experience Lapland from horseback — just remember to come prepared for the cold, and to plan your journey carefully.
Happy riding, and may your Lapland adventure be filled with snowy serenity and unforgettable views!
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