Syöte region in Finnish Lapland
Syöte is one of those places that had been on my radar for years, I’ve worked with the area many times but never actually visited myself. Known as Finland’s southernmost fell region, it is a magical place for outdoor adventures in the Finnish wilderness. With deep forests straight out of a fairytale and some of the most stunning winter scenery in the country, Syöte is a true hidden gem and much loved by the Finns. It’s where nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape find their perfect retreat.
Syöte is for those who want to...
- ski down Finlands popular fells
- stay at a truly hidden gem of a place
- take their dog on the cross-country skiing tracks
- witness out-of-the-world weather phenomena like the Northern lights
- have a picture-book Finnish winter experience
In this article:
Part of this trip was experienced on a mediatrip with Visit Oulu and Oulu Culture Capital 2026. All recommendations and opinions are my own. Thank you!
Planning your trip to the region: an itinerary suggestion
- Syöte is a great place for winter activities, and it’s easy to reach from the city of Oulu, so I highly recommend combining these two.
- In 2026, Oulu will be the European Capital of Culture which brings hundreds of events and happenings to the city, and the surrounding municipalities, including Syöte and many more.
- Oulu itself is a small city, that makes a lovely weekend getaway. Combining it with a trip to the Syöte area, will easily fill a week. I would suggest at least 2 days in Oulu, and another 3 in Syöte, including all the travel in between.
When to travel to Syöte
- Syöte is mainly known as a winter destination, and the high season lasts from December to April
- Winter lovers will love the time around January to March, when the Northern light season is fully on but it’s already getting a bit lighter during the day time
- The summer months between June and August are magical with the midnight sun’s endless days that will get you the most out of your stay!
- The skiing slopes of Syöte are turned into mountain biking parks during the summer season, so for you biking enthusiasts this is a great chance to bike in pure nature like it was always meant to be
Getting to and around Syöte
- By plane: Oulu Airport (OUL), Kajaani and Rovaniemi have direct flights from Helsinki (and several seasonal European connections) with Finnair or Norwegian. From there, continue by bus or rental car to Syöte.
- By train: Oulu is well-connected to the Finnish rail network, with direct trains from Helsinki taking around 5.5 hours. VR’s night trains are not only a really scenic and relaxed way to travel, but also a sustainable and reliable option. I’d always choose this! From Oulu, make your way to Syöte by bus
- By road: Whether driving or taking a long-distance bus, Syöte is pretty easily accessible via Finland’s highway network. There are several buses from Oulu, Rovaniemi and other cities that run frequently. Check out Matkahuolto for info.
Where to stay in Syöte
A former youth centre being turned into the most special boutique hotel experience! The new owners are taking a dated budget destination into a wonderful hotel that highlights Nordic design and local culture. The rooms and public areas (including an observatorium!) will be updated bit by bit, the common area and restaurant are mostly ready. The restaurant is truly incredible, the menu is wonderful, so are the cocktails. No matter if you stay here or not, the restaurant should be a must-visit for any guest!
Their own rental shop
Syöte is basically put together of Iso and Pikku Syöte (Big and small Syöte) and they are opposite of each other. Iso Syöte is right by the biggest slopes and a very busy widespread area in the winter. Pikku Syöte is a bit smaller (obvs) and calmer.
Top things to do in Syöte
1. Go on a Husky safari
A husky sledding trip is probably on everyone’s bucket list, and rightfully so. Any animal-based activity is always subject to some extra questions to make sure you choose an ethical provider, so it’s worth doing a bit of extra research here. We went on an amazing trip with Syötteen Eräpalvelut – who are a well-known part of the local community. These trips aren’t cheap, but this is not the place to save some money. The dogs are well cared for and looked after, you get to know all your doggos by name and get to enjoy some coffee and a sweet treat after the adventure in the wilderness.
We were extra lucky because we rode under the mother-of-pearl-clouds – a SUPER rare weather phenomenon that’s harder to ever see than the Northern lights. These colourful cloud formations look like an oil spill in the sky and it’s amazing. Even the locals took photos, so you know it’s serious.
They also offer many different summer activities, so it’s worth exploring their website.
2. Cross-country skiing (with or without your dog)
Syöte has many hundreds of kilometres of cross-country skiing trails and there’s one important thing that makes it so special: you’re allowed to take your dog with you on the trail! This is super rare, and for many dog owners a huge selling point. Info on the trails here (in Finnish)
You can borrow cross-country skiing equipment at the Iso-Syöte rental shop
3. Downhill-skiing and snowboarding
Moving on from the dogs-related things: the slopes of Syöte are some of the Finns favourite, and one of the preferred resort areas to visit. There are many different slopes of different difficulties, but especially the snowboarding areas are a standout here, this is even where some Olympians train. Of course for any skiing in Finland, you should adjust your expectations because the fells are not the alps.
You can borrow any skiing and snowboarding equipment at the Iso-Syöte rental shop
4. Indulge in a Nordic fine-dining menu at Restaurant Kotva
If you’re a foodie, the restaurant experience at Pikku-Syöte hotel should be on the top of your list: this was truly my personal highlight of the trip. We got started with a Cloudberry and hazelnut cocktail and continued through an incredible menu. The mushroom starter was probably one of the best things I’ve had in a long time, I still dream of it. I love that the food is such an integral part of the concept, and it’s really showing what’s to come for this hotel. The menu will change according to seasonal availability but guarantee that whatever they will create with blow your mind and tastebuds.
5. Snowshoeing through the forest
If you have read other posts of mine, I will sound like a broken record but: snowshoeing is SO underrated. If you like hiking, this is a unique way to immerse yourself in the foresty nature without drowning in the snow. This is a mindful and slow activity and you won’t cover many kilometres. Take a moment to look around you and look at the details of the forest. I love it.
You can book a guided tour through Pikku-Syöte hotel. Ask at reception. For any other places, happy googling 🙂
6. Cozy moments in the Kota
The Kota is the Finnish kind of teepee that is used to cook, to warm up and to rest. You can find them all around the country and often free to use for everyone, or you can enjoy a hot soup lunch hosted by different places. And of course, always coffee and a sweet bun.
Oulu - European Capital of Culture 2026 - What's happening in Syöte region?
- European Capital of Culture 2026 – Oulu will host a year-long cultural celebration with thousands of events, performances, and exhibitions showcasing art, music, and innovation. The overarching topic of the events will be Cultural Climate Change. The events and programme will span over the whole region of Oulu, which also include Syöte.
- Unique Cultural Themes – The 2026 program is built around three themes: Wild City (urban nature experiences), Cool Contrasts (blending tradition and modernity), and Brave Hinterland (highlighting regional creativity).
- Arctic Food Lab – Taste authentic Northern Finnish flavours, from wild berries and fresh seafood to reindeer dishes, all sourced from the Arctic region. This is – of course – the most interesting topic for me and will definitely be the reason for me to return to Oulu region in 2016.
What to know and what to pack
Hot tip
Both in terms of clothing and drinkware, thermals were quite the essential for me.
Layering is the key, and especially if you’re planning any outdoor activities, a breathable base layer but a wind-proof jacket are key.
Plan your days smart
The main tip here: use the daylight hours. The time when it’s light here is limited, so it’s crucial to make the best of it when you can.
If you plan to stay up late to see the Northern lights, I highly recommend scheduling an afternoon break once it gets dark. The cold makes you really tired, and after a fully packed day, I could not make it out to chase the auroras because I was asleep HARD.
Packing Must-Haves
Myssyfarmi Hohto Hood
Pomar Saana felt boots
Icebreaker floppy Mittens
R-Collection overshirt
Joutsen Mysi Down Coat
North Outdoor Merino joggers
Laponie all-around-balm
