23rd and 24th Lapland From Kirkenes to Saariselka and Arctic Huskie sleding

We awoke on 23rd March to overcast and wet conditions, packed our small case then following breakfast prepared to exit the ship following arrival at Kirkenes n the North of Norway.  We had enjoyed the ship and it’s various port visits and Nordic lifestyle. 

upon exiting the ship, we had to collect our two large cases, it was slippery, Ken had a fall, but fortunately onto soft snow.  He was helped up and nothing but a bruised right shoulder.  We walked the 200 metres out of the port terminal area to our awaiting bus which proceeded to the Russian Border for pictures even, about 30 minutes from the drive out of the port area. 

At the Russian border we had a 10 minute photo stop.  It was wet and miserable, but worth the stop. 

Then n to the Sammi Museum and Theatre and Cultural library and Exhbition Centre inLapland where we to photos and walked through the interactive video and other presentations.

We enjoyed our 90 minutes here, well worth the tme.  Our guide had briefed us on the challenged history of the Sammi people. 

We went out after dinner walking 1.2 km to an bservation platform to view the Northern Lights and the famed Aurora Borealis, but despite it being a clear evening we only saw a slight green area in the sky over the 2 hours we were positioned.  So disappointed but we did see something of the lights. 

Then on the return walk, Jeanette swayed off the path and fell into 3 feet of soft snow, only to recover and to have a snowbplough force is off the road. An interesting and challenging walk over the 2.5km to get to and from the viewing platform.

Back at Santa Hotels in our very comfortable room 667 by 10.50 pm. Tme for bed as we have an early rise for the Arctic Huskey dog sled ride. 

We awoke to a clear morning very excited as to our excursion to the Arctic Huskey dog sled ride an excursion through Lapland Safari’s.

Following breakfast we walked from the hotel to the Lapland Sagari Store where we were fitted with gear for our morning. 

Then after our ride of almost 90 minutes we had a hot berry drink and a lecture from the Huskey trainer. 

It was in a hut with a burning fire. 

Following the lecture lunch of beautiful soup and rolls with further berry drinks, followed by us asking questions.  He has 119 dogs, two kennels, one here and the other near the border with Russia, he has permission to use the border trails.

Following lunch and a walk around the kennel area, we were bussed back to the Hotel all believing we had enjoyed a once in a lifetime experience. 

Then a rest followed by early dinner and decision as to whether to go out again this evening. 

The view from our balcony looking up the hill to the ski lifts. 

Wonderful memories of Lapland, Finland

From the restaurant of our hotel looking out over the feet of snow. 

Dinner tonight is buffet, we are all excited and up beat following a wonderful day.

Inger, our guide is delighted but still frustrated following what was expected in perfect conditions as to possibly seeing the Northern Lights. 

Tomorrow morning we drive 3 hours to the Sinetta from our enjoyable stop here in Saariselka. 

We will arrive in Santa’s Village near Rovaniemi at approximately 12.30 for a 2 hour visit.  We will then arrive at Sinetta Arctic Snowhoyel and Igloos.  Another special experience.