Harriniva Wilderness Hotel
Situated in the heart of Lapland near the remote town of Muonio, Harriniva encapsulates the very best of Finnish Lapland.
Harriniva was one of the first pioneers of winter activity holidays and you’ll struggle to find anywhere with greater experience of how to explore the great outdoors in winter.
With nearly 30 years in the business, Harriniva’s range of activities is second to none and you can choose from a wonderful selection of husky safaris (Harriniva have their own Arctic sled dog centre next to the hotel), snowmobile safaris, Northern Lights searches and more.
The Bedrooms
There are 64 en suite hotel rooms with shower and hairdryer. Guests are encouraged to get together in the evenings so there are no televisions in the rooms but a TV room is available for guests should you want to try and decipher some Finnish TV. Tea and coffee can be purchased at reception.
Hotel Facilities
Separate sauna facilities are available for men and women free of charge during the evenings for around 3 hours. WiFi internet is available throughout the hotel and there are two PCs available for guests in the reception area.
The hotel restaurant has three dining areas and serves simple and hearty food, ideal sustenance for outdoor activities and Aurora watching. Breakfast is a Scandinavian style buffet with a wide array of options and your evening meal is generally a salad buffet followed by a set main meal and dessert.
There is also a pub which is a great place to gather with fellow guests and discuss your Aurora and winter experiences.
Harriniva also operate an Aurora Alarm which is included in some of the itineraries (see ‘what’s included’ for details) or can be arranged in advance (see price box for details).
The Aurora Wellness Centre which is situated on the river bank offers a wide range of therapies and treatments. At busy times these should be booked in advance.
In the reception building there is also a small souvenir shop where you can buy postcards and pick up some souvenirs.
Harriniva accepts all major credit cards and you can also exchange currency at reception. There are no cash points available.
Igloo
Staying overnight in an igloo as is a truly memorable experience and proves very popular with guests. The igloos (more like a mini igloo hotel) are generally situated a short walk from the hotel accommodation at Harriniva. The snow rooms are all decorated with special lighting and decoration carved into the walls. The design and number of rooms varies each season.
The indoor temperature tends to be between -5 to -10 degrees Celsius and you will sleep in Arctic grade sleeping bags to keep you toasty warm. Your hotel room at Harriniva is also kept for you in case you decide that you would rather retreat to the warmth indoors.
Wilderness Cabins
Any holiday that incorporates an overnight safari will include at least one night in a wilderness cabin. There can be few better ways to escape from everyday life than spending a night out in the wilds of Lapland.
The cabins are generally so remote that there is little or no light pollution, creating the best possible chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.
Some of the cabins can be basic (no electricity or running water) but they are all comfortable and when the fire is going they can be very cosy. Everyone helps with collecting water and fire wood so you will get your hands dirty but this all adds to the experience.
Your guide will cook you dinner over an open fire (we must be made aware of all dietary requirements at the time of booking). Despite the wilderness locations, the meals the guides produce get wonderful feedback from clients every year.
There are no shower or bathroom facilities but as this is Finland there is always a sauna and the secret is to steam clean in the evenings. Toilets are generally compostable and are situated a short walk from the cabin. A head torch is very handy for any nocturnal visits.
Sleeping arrangements are in dormitory style areas. You will sleep in Arctic grade sleeping bags and, if you feel the cold, possibly your thermals. The cabins tend to get toasty warm once the fire has been blazing for a while. Be sure to pack cosy clothing for inside the cabin.
During overnight safaris your luggage will be securely stored at the hotel. Valuables can be left in the hotel safe.
Safari Houses and Cabins
On our multi day husky and snowmobile safaris you spend some nights in shared safari houses or cabins at the start and end of the holidays. Harriniva have a variety of cabins and safari houses, some of which are on site and others are situated 3km from Harriniva. Guests are transferred to the hotel for all meals if they are staying off site.
Each safari house or cabin has its own shower, toilet and sauna and provides the perfect place to bond with your fellow adventurers before your safari.
All meals are served in the main hotel building and you will have access to all facilities there.