This year, the use of sea ice as a tourism asset has significantly progressed along the border between Finland and Sweden, especially in the twin cities of Tornio and Haaparanta which are eager to attract their share of the tourist flow heading to Lapland. The cities are currently brainstorming plans for new hotels and activities to capitalize on this unique natural resource.

A small but sheltered ice camp has been established just five kilometers from the shores of Tornio, nestled barely within Swedish territorial waters. This camp comprises five buildings, embodying a simple yet inviting concept combining quintessential Finnish experiences such as sauna, hot tubs, kick-sledding, snowmobiling, fishing, bonfires, and merely enjoying the serene atmosphere of the sea ice. Entrepreneur Kim Innala of Lapland Sea Adventures highlights the uniqueness of standing on the ice in this archipelago region, emphasizing its global rarity.

The growing demand for accommodations and activities indicates a promising development in regional tourism as the border municipalities are ready to dive into the market of Lapland tourism. With the allure of the frozen sea and the local culture, the hope is to enhance the tourist experience while fostering economic growth in these communities, marking a new chapter in their tourism strategy that could attract both domestic and foreign visitors alike.