Ideas / Offsites & incentives / Lapland

Ruska week

Autumn colours on the fells, the first aurora nights of the season, and none of the winter crowds.

Illustration for Ruska week

How it runs

  1. Day 1Arrival. In the evening, the first aurora watch of the season.
  2. Day 2, morningA fell hike through the colours, lunch by a fire.
  3. Day 2, afternoonWorking session with a view.
  4. Day 3Closing session and an easy walk before flights.

What to know

  • Ruska peaks for a couple of weeks, usually in September. It starts in the north and moves south.
  • First frosts and even snow are possible. Pack layers.
  • Nights are dark again, so the aurora season has begun.

Good for

Teams who want Lapland without the winter prices and crowds.

Not for

Anyone expecting snow activities.

Questions planners ask

When is ruska in Lapland?

Usually in September, peaking for a couple of weeks. Northern Lapland turns first.

Can we see the northern lights in September?

Yes, it's possible. The nights are dark enough again, though nobody can promise a clear sky.

Is it a good alternative to a winter trip?

For many teams, yes: quieter, easier to book, and the colours are as memorable as the snow.

Thinking of doing this?

Borrow the idea, it's yours. If you'd like a hand, or just a second opinion on whether it suits your group, write to me. I produce ideas like this one at Sorry, No Polar Bears, a Helsinki studio I co-run.

Email me