In Lapland, starry nights are punctuated by vibrant streaks of the aurora borealis, painting the sky with hues that call to the adventurer’s spirit. For those captivated by both speed and the lure of untouched nature, there exists a singular thrill: Lapland Ice Driving. This experience combines the elegance of world-class driving with the raw, icy splendor of the Arctic, making it a must for enthusiasts who know that “driving” and “fun” are inseparable.
Nestled in the stark, snowy wilderness, Lapland Ice Driving offers a unique playground—a vast, unending expanse of frozen lakes and dense forests, far removed from the everyday hustle. Here, drivers reconnect with the raw power of the car and the biting thrill of speed. The atmosphere, marked by thick snow banks and crystalline lakes, evokes a setting both surreal and sublime, where even the air feels sharper, alive with anticipation.
This icebound marvel is the world’s largest driving center, sprawling over 1,200 hectares—about six times the size of Monaco. The centerpiece? Thirteen custom circuits, five of which mirror iconic Formula 1 tracks including Silverstone, Nürburgring, and Yas Marina. Here, you can achieve the same dizzying speeds of up to 200 km/h, all within the safety of a purpose-built ice environment. Unlike traditional race circuits, there are no barriers, walls, or tree lines—only a powdery cushion of snow. Even a mishap at high speed leaves only pristine snow behind and an unscathed car, each vehicle carefully protected for maximum safety.
Lapland Ice Driving’s meticulous design continues in its personalized programs, tailored to match any driver’s skill level, from novice to professional. High-quality instruction, a rigorous teaching method, and a selection of packages ensure that drivers are at the wheel for 150 to 500 kilometers per day, mastering the art of drifting within days. A remarkable array of 30 sports cars and supercars awaits, their engines roaring with horsepower ranging from 300 to 800. In these cars, drivers can encounter Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini in their purest form, stripped of driving aids and outfitted with studded tires for ultimate grip.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned racer, each program pairs you with a seasoned coach, often hailing from prestigious racing circuits. The founder, Eric Gallardo, a former test driver with over 250,000 kilometers on ice, designed the experience to impart the delicate art of sustained drifts and sharp turns on ice. One of the early challenges? Keeping your car in a steady, thrilling drift at around 120 km/h, looping around a one-kilometer ice circle.
Even the logistics surrounding Lapland Ice Driving are curated with luxury and ease in mind. A modern four-star hotel lies a mere ten minutes from the driving center, while a 24/7 concierge service anticipates every need. Private airport transfers, gourmet cocktail receptions, and top-tier courtesy cars make each moment as exclusive as the experience on the ice. Arvidsjaur Airport, a quick hour’s drive, is readily accessible with daily flights from Stockholm, and for the time-conscious, private jets are also welcome.
A conscious nod to the environment is woven into every part of the operation. In addition to neutralizing its CO₂ emissions through a reforestation project in Madagascar, Lapland Ice Driving employs low-carbon diesel and sponsors sustainable vehicle initiatives. With a projected 90% carbon reduction target by 2027, the company continues its commitment to eco-responsible tourism, ensuring future generations will have the same wild, Arctic thrill to enjoy.
Ultimately, it is the memories created here that remain unforgettable. There’s the excitement of sliding around in controlled drifts, the camaraderie among friends and coaches, and the stunning landscapes that transform each drive into a cinematic moment. Professional photographers capture every exhilarating skid and smile, ensuring the memories live long beyond the ice.
For those looking to extend their adventure—or for companions less inclined to drive—Lapland offers a suite of quintessential Nordic experiences. Snowmobiling, dog sledding, and road trips to the Arctic Circle round out the stay, while ice fishing, elk viewing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing add rich, authentic layers to the journey.
Lapland Ice Driving is more than an excursion; it is an immersion in thrill, elegance, and raw nature. Each season sees a remarkable 80% return rate of dedicated clients, with some visiting as often as three times each winter. This is more than an experience—it’s a passion that’s easily rekindled year after year.