Finland Launches Summer Treasure Hunt With $23,000 Gold Bar Hidden in Lapland
Finland is offering travelers an unusual reason to visit its northern wilderness this summer: a chance to discover a hidden gold bar worth €20,000 ($23,300). The initiative, called the Midnight Sun Hunt, will take place in Levi, one of Finland's most popular tourist destinations, located above the Arctic Circle in the country's Lapland region.
Known worldwide for its snowy landscapes, winter sports, and Northern Lights experiences, Levi is now showcasing a different side of Arctic tourism by inviting visitors to explore its summer scenery through an exciting treasure hunt.
Visitors explore the scenic landscapes of Levi in Finnish Lapland as part of a summer-long treasure hunt featuring a hidden gold bar worth more than $23,000.
A Summer Adventure Under the Midnight Sun
The hunt officially begins on June 18 at the Levi Visitor Centre, where participants can register and receive their first clue. From there, treasure seekers will follow a series of hints that guide them through local hiking routes, attractions, and natural landmarks across the region.
Organizers have revealed that the hidden gold bar could potentially be found at any stage of the hunt. Additional clues will be released throughout the summer, gradually narrowing the search area until the final hint is unveiled on August 22. The event is designed to encourage exploration while allowing participants to experience the unique phenomenon of the Arctic midnight sun, when daylight continues around the clock during the summer months.
Showcasing Lapland Beyond Winter
Levi has long been recognized as one of Finland's premier winter destinations, attracting visitors seeking skiing, snowboarding, and opportunities to witness the Northern Lights. However, tourism officials believe the region's summer season remains largely undiscovered by international travelers.
With endless daylight, scenic fell landscapes, and extensive outdoor recreation opportunities, Lapland offers a dramatically different experience once the snow melts. Tourism leaders hope the treasure hunt will help introduce visitors to the area's summer attractions and encourage longer stays in the region.
Adventure Tourism on the Rise
Like many ski resorts across Europe, Levi has diversified its tourism offerings to attract visitors year-round. Beyond the treasure hunt, travelers can enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, wildlife observation, and paragliding. The Midnight Sun Hunt adds an interactive element to these experiences, transforming the region into a giant outdoor puzzle where every trail and landmark could hold the key to discovering the hidden prize.
Responsible Exploration Encouraged
Organizers have emphasized that participants must respect nature and follow designated routes throughout the competition. The hunt does not require digging, excavation, or disturbing the environment in any way. Instead, the challenge is based entirely on solving clues and exploring the landscape responsibly. The event is being organized through a collaboration between Visit Levi, Levi Ski Resort, and a local gold mining company, creating a unique blend of tourism, adventure, and regional heritage.
A New Way to Experience the Arctic
As destinations around the world seek innovative ways to attract travelers, Finland's Midnight Sun Hunt offers a fresh approach by combining outdoor exploration with the excitement of a real-life treasure search. For visitors heading to Lapland this summer, the reward could be more than breathtaking Arctic scenery. Somewhere among Levi's forests, trails, and hillsides, a gold bar worth more than $23,000 is waiting to be found.