Author: Yellow Duckie
•00:29
So why would anyone in the right frame of mind would pick a -25 degree Celcius vacation destination (Apart from seeing the Ice Hotel)? As mentioned in my previous entry, to pursue the Northern Light. Given the short frame of time here, it's either I see it tonight or I will leave this place only with the bitter sweet memory of the harsh weather here.

Perhaps it was fate that brought me to Poultsa. Situated 25 km away from Kiruna, this outskirt town is perfect to chase after the lights as it is far from the city lights. I wouldn't have even pick this place to stay if it the other place in Kiruna is not fully booked. I must say that I am glad I choose to stay in Matti & Kerstin's Farm in Poultsa. (http://www.ofelas.se/)

My fondest memory about the farm is that I actually slept there on the first night without the heater. I accidentally plug it off to charge my phone and camera that I didn't realise one of the plug was actually the heater. It was not a pleasant sleep i must admit.


Sunrise at Matti & Kerstin's Farm in Poultsa


They provide guided services in Kiruna mainly on horseback riding and at the same time, taking the lead as a single point to arrange for dog sledging and accommodation at the spare unit in their farm. I must say that they did a good job in keeping my budget low and even providing me with the proper clothing to withstand the extreme weather.

I was quite hesitant about staying away from town as I thought it would be boring however, I hardly had anytime to relax by the fire as I have initially intended to with all the arranged winter activities lined up for me. Besides, the scenery at the farm is mesmerizing and you will get to see moose hanging around freely. Truly a photography paradise i must say (provided you can withstand the cold with your hand out of your glove)

Dog Sledge



It was extremely fun to enjoy the dog sledge ride. One advise: Dress warm...really warm. Nicholas was the owner and guide for this husky safari (as it is know) and definitely knows a great deal about handling these huskies. He was really nice to warn us not to lick any yellow snow ;P. The trip includes you strapping the dogs on the harness and a great warm lunch in the modern sami hut where you could also thaw your fingers and toes after the first leg of the journey.




Lunch by the fire: A real comfort after the icy trip

Horse Riding



Matti has arrange for a horse back riding Northern Light tour to fill in the evening activity. Proudly presenting to us his precious Icelandic Horses, and I got to ride on Hildur, my snow princess. The journey was bearly longer than 2 hours but it felt like eternity when your fingers are freezing and your leg is hurting. I must admit that it was a magical feeling riding in the woods with the snow flakes falling from above. Matti with his cape on was leading us through the woods and I can't help it but to feel like I am in some war movie running away in the middle of the night escaping the claw of the tyrant.

Although it was dark, one could clearly make out the scenery around you and I must say, it is really mesmerizing. It captures you in a magical sphere and could easily get you carried away. However, the frost biting at your fingers and toes will also pull you back to reality. After the agony ( for me a Non-horse rider) of enduring the paint in my leg and the cold, it was a great comfort to enjoy a nice warm dinner at a modern sami hut where it's warm.

I did not actually see the Northern Light until , half past 11 when Matti came knocking furiously at my door informing me that the Northern Light has indeed decided to feast my eyes before I leave to Stockholm tomorrow. Given the fact that I was already all wrapped up in bed, i was rushing clumsily trying to put ALL my layers on before jumping into the overall and putting my boots all at the same time. I was glad that I did not fall flat while dressing up in that hurry. I am glad I saw it, right above the farm, the manifestation of the Northern Light takes place.

Arranged in a rib-like pattern across the sky. It was magnificient. Although it stayed less than 10 mins, I am glad that I finally saw, I found what I came looking for.
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