Talvenmaa's story

Talvenmaa, littéralement “la contrée de l’hiver” Talvenmaa, which means "Winter Land" in Finnish, is a family adventure born from a desire to offer private, immersive experiences in Lapland. The idea first took root in 2018 out of a shared frustration: a wish to spend more individual time with guests and delve deeper into sharing our passions… A feeling echoed by many travelers who expressed disappointment with the "tourist factory" approach so common across Lapland. The idea gradually took shape, and a few years later, we found our idyllic little farm—the perfect setting to bring this dream to life in a country so dear to our hearts.

About us

Photo de nous deux

Axel, your guide

In love with the Far North since I was young, I had my first adventure in Finland in 2017 as a dog sled guide. It was at the end of that first season that Odin, my faithful life companion and now the patriarch of our pack, came into my life. I then gained various experiences as a nature guide, working with sled dogs and snowmobiles in several organizations, both in France and Finland. Passionate about wilderness, I hold a BTSA in Nature Management and Protection, a degree strongly focused on managing natural areas as well as sharing ecological knowledge through nature-based activities. I am also passionate about music, Finnish culture, and of course Nordic dogs, as well as many other things! I would be delighted to share my world with you, while ensuring your safety during all activities.

Alex

Passionate about animals and Nordic dogs, I’m taking a break from my career as a general practitioner to live a life of adventure with my pack and train as a dog handler. Always inspired by career changes and major life transformations, moving to the country with the most challenging language in Europe has never scared me! A natural organizer and planner, I manage the administrative side of this big project while continuing my Finnish language studies. I’m also the one behind our social media, where I love sharing our daily life: the special moments, the little surprises that come with running a multi-dog household, and of course, our adventures with the pack—on foot, by sled, by dog cart, or on trips.

Your adventure companions

Odin

The patriarch and grump of the team. He was Axel’s first dog and has lived a rich life full of travel and discoveries. Certainly the dog with the strongest personality in the pack, he will gladly share a moment with you—but only if he chooses to. Otherwise, he enjoys his peace and quiet. Role in the team: Odin is the most powerful dog thanks to his exceptional size, but he hates monotony. While he sometimes helps as a wheel dog, he is primarily a companion dog and has never worked professionally.

Ukko

He was our first dog together. Ukko is an incredibly lovable and cute dog who loves being the center of attention. He’s the cuddly one of the pack and won’t mind if you hug him for hours. However, he has a very strong personality, especially toward unneutered males, and loves to watch over and control everything that’s going on. Role in the team: He is very versatile, knows the directional commands, but needs to be paired with a motivated dog to be able to give his all.

Leiko

Ukko’s main rival, he’s the top of the class; always diligent, he will do everything to never disappoint his humans. Leiko was actually abandoned around the age of one. It takes him a little time to trust, but once he does, he’s a bundle of love. Role in the team: Leiko has proven to be an excellent lead dog and already has a season of work under his belt. What a life change !

Ikran

The sensitive one of the bunch. But behind this delicate little being, terrified of flies, hides a gentle, affectionate dog with unwavering motivation when it comes to going on an adventure. He is independent, but he needs his daily dose of cuddles. Role in the team: Very brave when working, he has great potential as a lead dog. Consistent and highly focused, he can take on any role, though he hasn’t learned the commands yet.

Yuki

Yuki is also a rescue dog who was taken in following an abandonment. He has a mischievous personality, always up for a bit of trouble, but he also has a huge heart; he is so overjoyed to see his buddies return, even after the briefest absence… He will gladly accept all your cuddles! Role in the sled team : Just like Ikran, Yuki has shown unwavering motivation, never giving a second thought to what lies behind him. He will excel in team or wheel position to keep learning while maintaining his relentless drive!

Arizona

The baby of the family and the only princess among the boys, Arizona quickly learned how to make a space for herself and earn the respect of her sometimes rowdy big brothers. Role in the sled team: Arizona recently joined the team. Showing great promise with her sharp analytical skills, drive to always forge ahead, and strong self-confidence, she promises to become a trustful lead dog in the future!

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