Kick-sledding
Kicksledding in Oulu, Glide Across the Frozen Sea at Nallikari
Imagine gliding across a frozen sea with snow covered shores all around, moving at your own gentle pace with nothing but the crisp winter air and the quiet. That is kicksledding in Oulu, and it is one of the most relaxing and easygoing winter things to do here. From Nallikari you can set off across the sea ice or along the snowy nature trails, taking in the wide Arctic scenery without any rush at all.
Where is Oulu?
Oulu is a coastal city in Northern Finland, sitting on the Gulf of Bothnia just south of the Arctic Circle, and Nallikari is its seaside beach area only about 15 minutes from the city centre. Oulu was named one of National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026 destinations and is a European Capital of Culture in 2026. Because the sea here freezes solid each winter, you can safely glide right out onto it, which is something few visitors ever get to experience, and all without a long journey into the wilderness. Getting here is easy, with an airport about 15 km away and a direct train from Helsinki in around five and a half hours.
What is a kicksled?
A kicksled, in Finnish a potkukelkka, is a traditional Nordic winter sled. It has two long runners instead of wheels and a seat at the front, and you simply stand on the runners and push along with one foot, a little like a scooter but gliding over snow and ice. There is no technique to learn and no experience needed, and because there is a seat at the front, someone can ride along while another person pushes, which makes it perfect for families. It is one of the simplest and most charming ways to move through a Finnish winter.
Where can you kicksled in Oulu?
Nallikari’s speciality is the frozen sea, so in winter you can glide out onto the wide, open sea ice in beautiful surroundings. For a calmer outing, the snowy nature trails around Nallikari, such as nearby Hietasaari, are just as lovely, so you can choose your route to match the day and your mood. Whichever you pick, it is a peaceful and scenic way to experience a real northern winter, right beside the city.
Renting a kicksled at Nallikari
Kicksleds are easy to rent from the Nallikari Safaris rentalshop during opening hours, and you simply pick one up on the spot, so there is nothing to arrange in advance. Just dress warmly and for the weather, and you are ready to go. If you would like more winter activities during your stay, you will find guided tours and other gear with Nallikari Safaris in the same seaside area.
Rent a kick sled in Nallikari, Oulu.
Frequently asked questions
Is kicksledding one of the best things to do in Oulu in winter?
For many visitors, yes. It is easy, it suits all ages, and gliding across a frozen sea beside a city is a rare experience. It is also simple to combine with other winter activities in the Nallikari area, which makes it a lovely part of a winter day in Oulu.
What is a kicksled?
A traditional Nordic sled that you stand on and push along the snow or ice with one foot, a bit like a scooter. It has a seat at the front for a passenger or your bags.
Do I need any experience?
None at all. If you can walk, you can kicksled, and the technique takes just moments to learn.
Who is it suitable for?
Everyone. It is a relaxed, safe way to enjoy the winter, and you can even carry a child on the front seat.
Where do I get a kicksled, and do I need to book?
From the Nallikari Holiday Village reception during opening hours, on the spot, so there is no need to book ahead.
When can I go?
In winter, depending on the snow and ice conditions.
One area, everything close by
At Nallikari your day does not have to end when you step off the ice, because everything else you need sits along the same seaside area. You can warm up over lunch or coffee at Ravintola Nallikari or Bistoria Patio, ease tired muscles with a massage at Osfysio, and stay the night by the sea at Nallikari Aalto, the Poiju villas, the holiday cottages or the camping area. More things to do all year round are waiting with the guided tours and equipment rental of Nallikari Safaris. Out on the ice by day and relaxing by the sea in the evening, you will find everything in one seaside area in Oulu.
