DISPLAY on the trail of Reidar Särestöniemi, Lapland’s most mysterious artist.
Hidden in the endless expanses of Finnish Lapland lies the refuge of a man whose art fused raw nature with the hidden depths of the human soul. Reidar Särestöniemi, the famous artist, found in his remote log cabin on the Ounas River not only the secrets of nature – but also himself.
Only a few were granted the privilege of enjoying his sauna by the river. Here, in the steamy half-light, where heat and water enveloped the bodies, intimate encounters took place – moments full of closeness and a bond that could only unfold in the seclusion of the wilderness. But it was his studio that held the greatest mystery: an almost floating pool in an atmosphere of creative energy and crackling tension. Rumour had it that parties were held here at which the boundaries between art and passion blurred. Truth or legend? In Särestöniemi’s world, the two were often close together.
Levi – where nature comes alive
Levi, Finland’s most popular ski resort, is a paradise for outdoor fans – in winter as in summer. From November to May, perfectly groomed slopes attract winter sports fans from all over the world, while Levi’s legendary après-ski is served as hot as the glögi mulled wine. In the warm season, the landscape turns into an El Dorado for hikers, mountain bikers and kayakers. Crystal-clear lakes, lush green forests and endless trails invite you to explore the wilderness — and, on clear nights, the breathtaking spectacle of the Northern Lights.
Cocooning in the HaliPuu Forest
Not far from Kittilä lies the HaliPuu forest – a place where Lapland’s nature can be experienced in a completely new way. During Arctic Cocooning, you float in a soft hammock between mighty pines, breathe in the clear Arctic air and let the calm of the wilderness work its magic on you. After this deep relaxation comes a culinary highlight: by the campfire, the campfire barista serves you what is probably the best brew you have ever tasted. His Forestry Chai Latte – refined with birch leaves and juniper berries – has even been served to star chef Gordon Ramsay.
Adventure with Alaskan huskies
No visit to Levi would be complete without meeting the Alaskan huskies. On a guided husky tour, you learn how the dogs are trained and what special bond exists between them and their owners. After the ride, everyone helps to free the huskies from their harnesses – before they romp on exuberantly through the landscape. A moment that shows what true freedom means.
The lone bear of Lapland
Reidar Särestöniemi, born in 1925 in Kittilä, is considered one of the most important Finnish artists of the 20th century. Deeply rooted in Lapland’s untamed nature, his works reflect the wild beauty of his homeland. His family farm on the Ounas River was not only his home but also his creative refuge. The rushing waters, the endless bogs, the animals – all of it found its way into his art.
Our favourites in Lapland
Photos and text: Raphael Hadad
