Lapland luxury holidays can be as much about culture as about comfort. While snow-covered landscapes, glass igloos, and husky rides attract attention, the Sámi heritage offers a side of Lapland that feels alive and timeless.
Who are the Sámi people?
The Sámi are the indigenous people of Europe’s Arctic region, living across parts of Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Russia’s Kola Peninsula. In Lapland, their traditions still weave into everyday life. Clothing made from reindeer hides, language that shifts between several dialects, and handicrafts shaped by nature’s patterns are part of this cultural landscape.
What you might experience
During a luxury holiday in Lapland, some tours include visits to Sámi villages. Guests can see traditional lavvu tents, listen to joik – a unique style of singing – and learn about seasonal migrations. Reindeer herding is still an important livelihood, and some families welcome visitors to understand how it works in winter and summer.
Crafts and skills worth seeing
Sámi handicrafts (duodji) have a certain honesty to them. Knives, carved wooden cups (guksi), and intricate silver jewelry often carry patterns handed down for generations. Buying these directly from Sámi artisans not only supports the community but also gives you something authentic to bring home.
Food that tells a story
On a well-planned Lapland trip, you might taste smoked reindeer, Arctic char, or cloudberries with cream. Some dishes are cooked over open fires, in ways they have been for centuries. It’s a different kind of luxury — the kind that connects to the land.
Why it matters for travelers
Including Sámi cultural experiences in Lapland luxury holidays gives depth to the trip. It’s not only about where you sleep, but also about what you learn. Seeing life through the eyes of those who have lived in the Arctic for thousands of years can make the snowy wilderness feel warmer.
Planning it right
Some high-end travel providers in Lapland now include Sámi-led activities in their itineraries. This ensures the stories come directly from the people who live them, not through second-hand versions.
Final thought
For travelers seeking something beyond the usual winter activities, Sámi culture offers a lens into Lapland’s true heart. Luxury can mean heated glass domes and five-star dinners, but it can also mean sitting by a fire, listening to an elder sing about the wind.
Plan your Lapland luxury holidays with Finland Local Guide to discover both the wild beauty and living traditions of the north.
