Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village

Exploring the Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village: An Honest Look

If you’re heading to Rovaniemi and considering a unique way to connect with Lapland’s tranquil beauty, the Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally saddled up, reviews and descriptions give us a pretty clear picture of what to expect. This experience offers a peaceful, slow-paced ride designed for those who want to enjoy nature without any prior riding experience needed.

What really shines about this tour are two key aspects: the chance to see Lapland’s changing seasons from horseback and the warm, friendly atmosphere created by the staff and the Finnhorses themselves. A memorable touch is ending the ride with a warm drink by the fire, adding a cozy finishing touch to your outdoor adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite laid-back and may not satisfy those seeking a faster, more adrenaline-fueled ride or a late-night aurora chase. If you’re comfortable with gentle rides and are craving a calm, scenic excursion, this one might suit you well. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate nature, want to try riding for the first time, or simply enjoy peaceful outdoor moments in Lapland.

Key Points

• Gentle, beginner-friendly ride suitable for ages 7 and up, no previous riding experience needed
• Stunning seasonal scenery—from snow-covered forests to vibrant autumn leaves
• Includes cozy post-ride treat with warm drink, gingerbread, and marshmallows by the fire
• Limited group size (max 5 travelers) offers a more personalized experience
• Weather-dependent activity—good weather is essential for the ride and may lead to cancellations
• Pricing reflects good value for a unique outdoor experience in Santa Claus Village

What to Expect from the Finnhorse Riding Experience

Upon arriving at Aurora Horses in Santa Claus Village, you’ll start with a thorough safety briefing and introduction to Finnhorses, Finland’s beloved native breed. This initial part is crucial, especially for those new to horseback riding, as it sets the tone for a safe and enjoyable trek. Reviews consistently highlight the friendly, supportive staff who make beginners feel comfortable. As one reviewer shared, “the kindness of the instructor and the almost friend-like connection just adds to it,” emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere.

The actual riding portion lasts approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on weather conditions. The pace is deliberately slow, making it accessible for most people—even those who’ve never been on a horse before. You’ll traverse forest trails, which are particularly breathtaking when blanketed in snow or adorned with autumn foliage. One reviewer described the experience as “riding a finnhorse through the snow,” which highlights how magical this setting can be.

Throughout the ride, the horses are described as calm, reliable, and adorably friendly. Many reviewers mention the horses’ gentle nature, which is a comfort, especially for first-timers. The group is small, with a maximum of five travelers, so you’re likely to get personal attention and support from the staff. The quiet of the forest, combined with the sound of hooves and the peaceful surroundings, really makes this ride special.

After the ride, the experience continues with a relaxed gathering around a campfire. Here, you’ll enjoy a warm drink, gingerbread cookies, and marshmallows — a delightful and comforting end to your adventure. Several reviews praise this part, with one user commenting, “the views were breathtaking,” and appreciating the cozy atmosphere after their ride.

The Practical Details

Pricing for this tour is around $124.62 per person, which many consider quite reasonable for a well-organized, scenic outdoor activity in Santa Claus Village. The price covers helmet rental, but you’ll need to bring your own warm clothes suitable for riding, including shoes and gloves—crucial for comfort and safety, especially in colder months. Helmets are mandatory, and the staff provides a cap and helmet to ensure safety.

The tour lasts approximately one hour overall, with the riding itself being about 30-40 minutes. It’s designed to be slow and relaxing, making it perfect if you’re not looking for an adrenaline rush. Because the activity depends on good weather, snow, or clear trails are essential for the ride. If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the experience may be canceled, but you can get a full refund or reschedule.

Meet-up is at Joulumaantie in Rovaniemi, a location accessible via public transportation, which is handy if you’re staying nearby. The activity is suitable for most travelers, provided they are over 7 years old and under 120 kg (265 lbs). This policy ensures the safety and wellbeing of both riders and horses.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

The glowing reviews highlight just how much people enjoy this tour. Many praise the breathtaking scenery—particularly in winter when snow transforms the forest into a fairy tale. One reviewer said, “Riding a finnhorse through the snow is an incredible experience,” capturing how unique this can feel.

The staff receives high marks for friendliness and support, with comments like “very friendly staff” and “we felt supported and well taken care of.” These personal touches are often what make quiet adventures like this memorable.

The majority of feedback is positive, with a 4.7/5 rating based on 13 reviews. Almost everyone agrees that it’s a worthwhile, peaceful activity that enhances your trip to Lapland. A few less enthusiastic reviews mention that the ride can be “boring” in the snow or that the experience may not meet expectations if you’re looking for something more exciting or fast-paced, but these are the minority.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This riding tour is perfect if you’re seeking a calm, scenic experience that combines nature, culture, and a touch of adventure without needing riding skills. It suits first-timers, families with children over 7, or anyone who enjoys outdoor tranquility. If you’re interested in enjoying Lapland’s landscapes from horseback and want a cozy ending with hot drinks and snacks, this could be just right.

It’s less ideal if you crave high-speed rides, nighttime aurora hunts, or activities that involve a lot of physical exertion. The focus here is on slow, peaceful exploration—so if that’s your vibe, you’ll likely love it.

FAQs about the Finnhorses Riding Tour

Is prior riding experience necessary?
No, this tour is designed for beginners and those with no riding experience. The pace is slow and gentle, making it accessible for most.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothes suitable for riding, plus shoes and gloves. The activity takes place outdoors in potentially cold weather, so layers are a good idea.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a helmet and cap, the guided ride, and the post-ride treats at the fire. You’ll need to prepare your own warm clothing.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is about one hour, with roughly 30-40 minutes spent riding.

What are the age and weight restrictions?
Participants should be over 7 years old and weigh less than 120 kg (265 lbs).

Is the activity weather-dependent?
Yes, good weather is essential. Poor weather may lead to cancellation, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Joulumaantie in Rovaniemi, Finland. It’s accessible via public transportation.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 5 travelers, offering a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour may be canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable.

Final Thoughts

The Riding Tour with Finnhorses at Santa Claus Village offers a peaceful way to connect with Lapland’s natural beauty while enjoying a gentle horseback ride. It’s a well-organized experience that emphasizes safety, comfort, and scenic charm. Whether you’re a first-time rider, a family looking for a relaxed outdoor activity, or someone eager to see the forest in different seasons, this tour has a lot to offer.

The sense of tranquility you’ll find trotting through snow-covered woods or colorful autumn forests makes it memorable. Plus, the warmth of the post-ride campfire and the friendliness of the staff create an inviting atmosphere that makes the experience feel special. Keep in mind that it’s quite laid-back, so if you’re after high adrenaline, this isn’t the activity for you. But if you’re craving a gentle, scenic adventure in Lapland, this could be the perfect fit.

In the end, this tour shines in the simplicity of its offering—beautiful scenery, calm horses, and a cozy ending. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate nature’s quiet moments and want to include a unique, culturally rich activity in their Santa Claus Village visit.