Lapland, a region stretching across the Polar Arctic Circle, resembles the kind of magical, fantasy world that you may have conjured up as a child when you were wondering where Christmas presents came from. After all, the place is the official hometown of Santa Claus and his reindeer, where spectacular Northern lights whisper in tones and ripple the sky without warning. In the summer, the midnight sun hangs above at all hours, bathing even the Polar regions in a jubilant glow.
Photo: Visit Rovaniemi
Although Lapland is famous for having more reindeer than people, the biggest reindeer is hiding in plain sight in Rovaniemi, made by architect Alvar Aalto himself and embedded in the street plan of the capital city. You’ll want to wander the capital to experience this “Antler Town Plan” in person. Rovaniemi also has ample Arctic design stores, thrift shops packed with Marimekko dresses, a stunning Arctic museum as well as modern, minimal boutique hotels dressed up with items by Finnish designers. Here’s where you should go if you’re looking to discover design in this Arctic city.
WHERE TO STAY
Kota room in Haawe Hotel \ Photo: Haawe Hotel
Kota room in Haawe Hotel \ Photo: Haawe Hotel
Haawe Hotel in the capital city of Rovaniemi features 14 themed rooms: pick the Sauna-themed room if you want to immerse yourself in the vibrant Finnish culture surrounding “löyly”. This Finnish word refers to throwing water on hot stones and being envelope...