Often associated with eternal winter, Finnish Lapland is inviting tourists this summer to swap their reindeer rides for a search for hidden gold under the Arctic midnight sun.
Source: CNN
The ‘Midnight Sun Hunt’ kicks off on June 18 in Levi, a resort in Northern Finland best known for its ski slopes and views of the Northern Lights. Participants are challenged to solve clues and follow trails that reveal the location of a hidden gold bar worth 20,000 euros.
Gradual directions
The quest begins at the Levi Visitor Center, where participants can register and receive their first clue. From there they follow tracks along local trails and landmarks, making the destination itself part of the experience.
New clues will be gradually released throughout the summer that could help identify the location of the gold bar. The final clue is expected to be released on August 22.
Northern summer
Levi, Finland, is located above the Arctic Circle and is best known as a popular winter destination. During the summer months, the midnight sun is visible in the region, illuminating the landscape day and night. According to tourism agency Visit Levi, the summer period is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
“The northern summer is still undiscovered by many,” said Satu Pesonen, CEO of Visit Levi. “We want to give travelers a new reason to visit Levi, as a place where the sun never sets and the mountain landscapes reveal a completely different side of themselves.”
The midnight sun hunt is organized in collaboration with the gold mining company Agnico Eagle Finland and the Levi ski resort. Participants who would like to participate are asked to behave responsibly, stay within permitted areas and respect the natural environment. Digging or disturbing the site is prohibited.
Flemish quest
Gold panning has also become a popular activity in Flanders recently. Last month, more than 34,000 participants took part in the Flemish ‘Gold Rush’. Over the course of several weeks, they received clues via social media, emails and advertisements that took them to a secret location: the Hasselt city park. A gold bar worth 6,700 euros was waiting there. Due to the great success, the organization is now working on a new campaign.
LOOK. A gold bar was also hidden in Belgium.