Finnish Lapland is best known for its snowy winters, Northern Lights, and reindeer safaris. But this summer, Levi is inviting visitors to discover a different side of the Arctic — by searching for a hidden gold prize worth €20,000 beneath the never-setting Midnight Sun.
Levi, one of Finland’s most famous resort destinations, has unveiled an unusual tourism initiative designed to attract visitors during the Arctic summer. The Midnight Sun Hunt, launching on 18 June 2026, challenges participants to follow a series of clues across the landscapes of Finnish Lapland in search of a hidden gold prize valued at €20,000. The concept is simple but intriguing. Visitors begin their journey at the Levi Visitor Centre, where they register and receive the first clue. Additional clues will be released throughout the summer, gradually narrowing down the location of the hidden treasure. Organisers note that the prize could theoretically be found at any stage of the hunt, but each new clue makes the search easier.
A Different Vision of Lapland
For many international travellers, Lapland remains associated almost exclusively with winter tourism. Ski slopes, snow-covered forests, and the Northern Lights dominate postcards and travel brochures. Yet summer reveals an entirely different Arctic landscape. Above the Arctic Circle, the Midnight Sun keeps the region illuminated around the clock for weeks. Hiking trails, mountain biking routes, fishing spots, and panoramic fell landscapes become accessible under continuous daylight. Levi hopes the treasure hunt will encourage more visitors to experience this lesser-known season. According to Visit Levi, the initiative aims to showcase the area’s natural attractions while promoting sustainable exploration. Participants are encouraged to stay on designated paths, respect the environment, and avoid disturbing nature during their search. Importantly, the hidden treasure does not require digging or damaging the terrain.
Gold and Lapland: A Historic Connection
The choice of a gold prize is not accidental. Gold has long played a role in Lapland’s history. Finland experienced several gold rushes during the nineteenth century, particularly in the northern regions around the Ivalojoki River. Even today, recreational gold panning remains a popular activity in parts of Lapland. The Midnight Sun Hunt connects this historical legacy with modern tourism, transforming the entire destination into an interactive adventure. The project has been organised in cooperation with Levi Ski Resort and Agnico Eagle Finland, the mining company operating the nearby Kittilä gold mine, one of Europe’s largest gold-producing sites.
Tourism Beyond Winter
Like many Nordic destinations traditionally dependent on winter visitors, Levi has spent recent years expanding its summer offerings. Mountain biking, trail running, hiking, kayaking, and wellness tourism have become increasingly important parts of the local economy. The treasure hunt represents one of the most creative attempts yet to attract international attention. By combining Arctic landscapes, outdoor adventure, and the possibility of finding real gold, Levi is creating an experience that is difficult to replicate anywhere else in Europe. Whether visitors leave Lapland with a gold prize or simply unforgettable memories of endless daylight, the Midnight Sun Hunt offers a compelling reason to explore Finland’s Arctic north during the brightest months of the year.
ATN Travel Tip
If you’re planning a summer trip to Finnish Lapland, consider combining the Midnight Sun Hunt with hiking in the Levi fells, cycling through the surrounding forests, or visiting nearby Kittilä. Between June and August, daylight lasts nearly 24 hours, allowing for outdoor adventures at almost any time of day.
Suggested Online Sources
Visit Levi – Travelers can hunt for gold under the Midnight Sun in Levi
Visit Levi – The Midnight Sun Hunt Event Page
Midnight Sun Hunt Official Website
