Discover Ruska

And if you are really fortunate, you might also get to see the fabled Northern Lights, which would mean you would witness two of Nature’s greatest spectacles on one memorable trip.

In Finland, the special name Ruska is given to the unique autumn colours of Lapland, the phenomenon of the spectacular autumnal heath and birch colours that occur for a couple of weeks around mid September every year.

The colours have to be witnessed to be believed - in every direction you can see red bearberries, purple bilberries, orange dwarf birches and yellow mountain birch trees. A truly amazing sight.

Your break includes full board at the Davvi Arctic Lodge, which you reach after a flight Lapland, followed by a two-hour minibus transfer through the autumn landscapes.

Ruska is essential in the cycle of nature, but it is also an important time for visitors to the region. In mid-September travellers from far afield come to witness a fascinating natural phenomenon which unites hikers and nature lovers regardless of age or gender.

The colours aside, Ruska is a beautiful time of the year in the fells. From the Davvi Arctic Lodge you can look out over the river towards Sweden and the Norwegian Alps beyond. It is The local berry and mushroom picking season. Nothing can be more satisfying than gathering nature’s bounty while immersed in spectacular colourful landscapes.

Your Discover Ruska break has three activities included in the price:

Fell Trek (2hrs)

The ancient fells in this region make a spectacular vantage point from which to drink in the glorious vistas of the wilderness and you will enjoy a guided walk amid abundant nature to the very top of the nearby Sakkaravaara Fell, where you will be able to relax and enjoy a well-earned refreshing drink before returning down the hillside.

Sami Interlude (3hrs)

Your break also includes a Sami interlude, when you will meet some local Sami people in a traditional lavu (large family tent) where you will be able to enjoy some reindeer meat cooked over the fire and served with homemade bread and coffee. Throughout your visit, you Sami hosts will talk to you on subjects such as their local life, traditions and ancestry. Your Sami interlude day will conclude with a tour around the family small holding, which provides a range of artefacts an information on the history and culture of the Sami people.

Bushcraft Safari (3hrs)

A great excursion for those who enjoy being active. You start with a 4x4 safari into a quiet corner of the wilderness. There you will have a talk and demonstration on essential bushcraft skills, including gathering and making your own fire. After a barbecue cooked on your campfire, the excursion concludes with a wilderness trek accompanied by eager huskies who will carry supplies.

Our short break leaves you plenty of time to relax and enjoy your surroundings. But if you want to be more active, we have an exciting range of optional activities from going in search of the moose to bird watching.