Snowmobiling in Finland

Are you in search of inspiration for your winter vacation this year? If you are, why not come to Finland and discover the world of snowmobiling! Snowmobiling is a growing winter sport in Europe and North America. There are several hundred kilometres of marked snowmobile trails for visitors to enjoy all around Finland. All offer spectacular views of Finland's winter scenery and provide endless hours of fun for adults and children alike. Guided Tours If you've never been snowmobiling before, the easiest way to get started is to book yourself on a guided snowmobile tour. These are operated from the main vacation resorts in Northern Finland and offer tours out into the snow-covered wilderness over easy-to-handle terrain. As part of the package snowmobile tour operators provide guidance on how to drive a snowmobile. Lessons are given before you set out. The tour operator will also brief you on driving regulations that apply to snowmobiles in Finland. Snowmobile gear is provided by the tour operator - this includes helmet, gloves, boots and adequate winter clothing. For children under the age of 10 a sleigh towed by a snowmobile is generally offered for safety and convenience. The sleigh is towed at less than 40km/h and enables younger children to enjoy the winter adventure too. Snowmobiling is not recommended for children under the age of 2. Where to go Snowmobiling in Finland Finland offers a vast array of snowmobile bases from where organized snowmobile treks can be arranged. The regions of Lapland in Northern Finland and Oulu in Central Finland tend to offer the best snowmobiling experience in Finland as snow cover is deeper and lasts for longer than in southern areas. In Lapland inter-linked snowmobile routes connect the region's capital - Rovaniemi - with many hundreds of towns and villages in the province. Some routes extend right up into the northwestern arm of Finland and to the northern mountains of Norway. For a trouble-free transfer to Rovaniemi town itself a hire car is recommended. Car hire can be booked in advance at http://www.your-carhire.com for pick up at Rovaniemi airport.