Step into Lapland, a world where frosted landscapes, festive magic, and the beauty of Arctic wildlife come together in unforgettable ways. This guide invites you on a journey beyond the ordinary, where encounters with Santa Claus, Northern Lights adventures, and authentic Lappish experiences await.
Wander through snowy forests, meet enchanting animals, and savour local delicacies crafted with love. Whether embracing thrilling excursions or soaking up Lapland’s cultural heritage, each moment is designed to create memories as breathtaking as the landscape.
Excursions
Santa Claus Village
At the magical Santa Claus Village, nestled right on the edge of the Arctic Circle, childlike wonder awaits in every snow-dusted corner. Meet Santa in his charming office or explore the Christmas House, where yuletide magic fills the air year-round. In Santa’s Main Post Office, thanks to his hardworking elves, receive a personalised Arctic Circle stamp on your postcards. Feed reindeer at the Elf’s Farmyard, or try a husky sled ride through wintry scenes. From ice skating to freshly prepared salmon around a glowing fire, each activity is imbued with the enchantment of the North.
Alternative: Santa Park Arctic World – Experience an underground Christmas adventure where the “Magic Train” transports you through elves’ workshops, and children can attend Elf School to learn the secrets of Santa’s helpers.
Santa Claus Secret Forest Joulukka
Hidden deep within the Lapland forest, Santa Claus Secret Forest is an exclusive hideaway inviting guests to become honorary elves for a day. Follow the Fairytale Path to discover the Command Centre, where Santa’s helpers orchestrate holiday plans, or venture into the traditional teepee, where you can decorate gingerbread cookies beside a crackling fire. Santa’s Toy Factory, nestled within a snowy forest, reveals the magic behind Christmas preparations. Complete the experience with a mug of hot chocolate by the open fire, surrounded by wintry silence.
Alternative: Elf’s Hideaway – This interactive adventure park offers a hands-on experience with Lapland’s traditions, featuring a reindeer farm, Elf House, and even a Gingerbread Bakery.
Ounasvaara and Ranua Wildlife Park
To taste Lapland’s untouched wilderness, explore the trails of Ounasvaara, where panoramic views of Rovaniemi await at every turn. Continue your journey to Ranua Wildlife Park, home to over 200 Arctic species, from elusive Arctic foxes to playful polar bears. Wander through lush woodlands as you observe native wildlife in a setting that mirrors their natural habitats. The park offers an immersive Arctic experience, allowing guests to connect deeply with the region’s fascinating creatures.
Alternative: Auttiköngäs Nature Reserve – Discover Arctic wildlife amidst frozen waterfalls and serene forest trails, offering a raw, immersive experience in Lapland’s wilderness.
SieriPoro Reindeer Farm
Dive into Lapland’s reindeer herding heritage traditions at SieriPoro Reindeer Farm. Here, generations of reindeer herders have thrived in this vast winter landscape since the early 1800s. Embark on a 3.5-kilometre sleigh ride, dressed in cosy winter gear, and enjoy the thrill of earning a reindeer driving license. Afterwards, sip hot berry juice and savour pastries around a fire, listening to stories about reindeer life and herding practices. Combine your visit with an ice fishing experience on nearby Sierijärvi Lake for added adventure.
Alternative: Konttaniemi Reindeer Farm – An intimate and immersive reindeer herding experience that includes hands-on herding activities, an evening sleigh ride, and a family-style dinner by the fire.
Bearhill Husky Tours
Bearhill Husky Kennel, a family-owned oasis in the heart of Lapland, invites guests to experience the thrill of dog sledding with their beloved huskies. Glide across a frozen lake with your team of eager huskies, covering up to 18 kilometres of snowy terrain. After the ride, spend time bonding with these affectionate dogs before gathering in a cosy, rustic hut for fireside storytelling, warm berry juice, and freshly baked Lappish gingerbread. Whether you embark on a morning ride or join an aurora hunting tour by night, this adventure captures the essence of Arctic magic.
Alternative: Lapland Safaris Husky Adventure – Experience a day or night safari with friendly huskies, where guests can drive their team or join a guided sled for a thrilling ride through Lapland’s winter wilderness.
Lapland Snowmobile Safari
Embark on an exhilarating snowmobile journey through Lapland’s serene winter wonderland—speed through forests and across frozen lakes, guided by seasoned experts who know the land intimately. Opt for an evening ride to chase the Northern Lights, adding an ethereal glow to your adventure. For those seeking variety, snowmobiles can lead you to remote ice fishing spots, where your guide will prepare a delicious fireside meal as you relax in the peaceful Arctic.
Alternative: Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour with Ice Hotel Visit – Combine a night snowmobile adventure with a visit to a magnificent ice hotel, enjoying cocktails in the ice bar and a chance to explore intricately carved ice suites.
Private Sauna and Dinner in a Glass Igloo
Set by a tranquil lake and surrounded by snow-laden trees, this private experience invites you to unwind with a wood-fired sauna, where a guide introduces you to age-old Finnish relaxation rituals. The bravest can try the “avanto” plunge into icy waters, while others retreat to a glass igloo for a fireside dinner. Using ingredients sourced from Lapland, the chef crafts a traditional meal over an open flame. As darkness falls, witness the star-studded sky and the Northern Lights from the warmth of your glass cocoon—a perfect blend of comfort and Arctic tradition.
Alternative: Ice Floating in Arctic Waters – Experience an adrenaline-pumping ice float in thermal suits, followed by a visit to a private igloo for dinner, where the Northern Lights often make a surprise appearance.
Private Northern Lights Photography Expedition
Join expert photographers and guides on a tailored Northern Lights hunt, where you’ll explore Lapland’s dark wilderness in search of the perfect vantage point. Equipped with real-time Aurora forecasts, your guide selects the night’s best locations. With personalised tips on camera settings, you can capture the Northern Lights in all their splendour or let the experts create stunning photos for you. As you journey deeper into the wilderness, the night sky lights up in shades of green and purple, providing the ultimate Arctic backdrop.
Alternative: Aurora Floating Experience – Watch the aurora borealis from a private outdoor floating deck, with thermal blankets and hot beverages to keep you comfortable as you gaze at the Northern Lights.
Dining
Nova Skyland Hotel
Experience a fusion of Nordic flavours at Restaurant Nova Skyland, where dishes are crafted with local ingredients like reindeer, king crab, and wild berries. Starters include fennel-topped lobster soup, and mains feature reindeer roast with horseradish and Lappish potatoes. Enjoy signature cocktails like the Tipsy Santa or sip on a traditional Finnish coffee spiked with cloudberry liqueur and topped with whipped cream for a warm ending to your meal.
Alternative: Arctic Restaurant Rakas – With an emphasis on foraged ingredients, Rakas offers Nordic-inspired dishes served in a rustic, elegant atmosphere, surrounded by Lapland’s snowy scenery.
Arctic SnowHotel
Dining at the Arctic Snow Hotel’s Ice Restaurant is rare, set within intricately carved ice walls. Enjoy a three-course meal served on ice plates with velvety mushroom soup, Arctic salmon with crayfish sauce, and a tangy raspberry-vanilla bavarois. It’s a frosty but enchanting experience combining innovative dining with an ice palace’s surreal beauty.
Alternative: SnowCastle of Kemi – Each year, the SnowCastle of Kemi creates a unique ice dining experience with carved ice tables and themed ice sculptures, offering dishes inspired by the Arctic landscape.
Restaurant Nili
At Restaurant Nili, Lapland’s flavours, scents, and textures come together. The décor, featuring Lappish wood and reindeer leather, sets the scene for an authentic meal crafted from ingredients like Arctic char, wild mushrooms, and reindeer meat. Nili’s Reindeer Room offers a cosy private setting, perfect for groups of up to 20, where guests can experience Lapland’s rustic yet refined tastes.
Alternative: Restaurant Aitta – Located in Rovaniemi, Aitta uses local, sustainable ingredients to create traditional dishes with a modern twist, capturing the essence of Lappish cuisine.
Accommodation
The Glass Resort at Santa Claus Village
In the heart of Santa Claus Village, the Glass Resort features luxurious glass-walled apartments and a private Premium Lodge, offering immersive views of snowy forests and the Northern Lights. The lodge includes ensuite bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, a sauna, and an outdoor hot tub, all framed by expansive windows. After exploring, enjoy a Nordic breakfast at Restaurant Gallis and watch the Arctic sunrise through floor-to-ceiling glass.
Alternative: Northern Lights Ranch – An upscale retreat offering private log cabins with glass roofs, outdoor hot tubs, and a serene Lappish setting perfect for viewing the Northern Lights in comfort and privacy.
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Our team can arrange bespoke itineraries, exclusive accommodations, and private access to Lapland’s wonders, ensuring your Arctic journey is curated to perfection. Visit our Cards section to find out more.
