Welcome to Lapland, the enchanting realm where snow-draped landscapes meet the magic of Christmas. This guide invites you to embark on a journey that transcends ordinary travel experiences. From heartwarming encounters with Santa Claus in his charming village to thrilling expeditions under the Northern Lights, Lapland promises unforgettable moments at every turn. Discover pristine nature, captivating wildlife, and authentic Lappish culture. Then, immerse yourself in Lapland’s finest culinary experiences, where local ingredients are transformed into delectable dishes.
Excursions
Santa Claus Village
Nestled closest to the Arctic Circle, the magical Santa Claus Village is where every moment exudes childlike wonder and unadulterated joy. Meet the world’s jolliest fellow at the Santa Claus Office or explore his heartwarming Christmas House. Send Arctic Circle greetings worldwide from Santa Claus’ Main Post Office, where diligent Postal Elves ensure a special postmark. Discover enchantment with Mrs. Santa Claus at her Christmas Cottage. Visit the Elf’s Farmyard to feed reindeer and befriend fluffy alpacas. Showcase your ice-skating skills and savour open-fire cuisine at Santa’s Salmon Place, or enjoy a husky ride. This magical village offers all this and so much more.
Santa Claus Secret Forest Joulukka
Hidden within Lapland’s enchanting woodlands, the magic of Christmas comes alive. Venture into the heart of the Secret Forest to join Santa’s helpers and earn your Elf diploma. Along the enchanting Fairytale Path, you’ll discover the Santa Command Centre, where bustling Elves prepare for the grand holiday. Indulge in gingerbread delights and hot beverages by an open fireplace, then explore Santa’s hidden toy factory in a traditional Lappish teepee.
Ounasvaara and Ranua Zoo
Unveil Lapland’s pristine nature and captivating wildlife. Ascend the slopes of Ounasvaara for a brief hike, revealing Rovaniemi’s panoramic vista. Then, journey to Ranua Zoo, a sanctuary for 200 Arctic species, including majestic giant moose, elusive forest reindeer, wily wolverines, charming arctic foxes and playful polar bears.
SieriPoro Reindeer Farm
Experience the age-old charm of Lapland at SieriPoro Reindeer Farm, where reindeer herders have thrived since the early 1800s. Encounter over 250 reindeer, ranging in size and age, and delve into their captivating world amid Lapland’s breathtaking landscapes.
Embark on a 3.5 km sleigh ride equipped with cosy attire and a coveted reindeer driving license. Gain insights into reindeer life and herding traditions, then savour hot berry juice and traditional Finnish pastries. Elevate your adventure with a combined ice fishing escapade on the beautiful Sierijärvi Lake.
Bearhill Husky Tours
In the heart of Lapland, the family-run Bearhill Husky Kennel beckons you into a world of frosty enchantment. With a deep love for their huskies, this family has dedicated their lives to breeding and training these magnificent creatures. Now, they invite you to share in their passion. Feel the exhilaration as your team of huskies pulls your sled across a serene frozen lake, covering up to 18 kilometres. After the ride, bond with these friendly huskies, snap photos for lasting memories and gather in a cosy hut for fireside chats, hot berry juice, and traditional Lappish gingerbread biscuits. Whether you drive your own team or join an evening guided tour on the hunt for the elusive aurora borealis, this is one adventure you cannot afford to miss
Lapland Snowmobile Safari
Embrace the exhilaration of snowmobiling across Lapland’s snowy wonderland. Glide through enchanting forests, over frozen waterways, and even cross the Arctic Circle. With seasoned guides leading the way, this journey promises both safety and awe amidst Lapland’s captivating wilderness. For those who fancy ice fishing, snowmobiles provide access to some of Lapland’s finest frozen lakes. As you drill through the ice for a catch, your guide prepares a delectable outdoor feast over an open fire. Yet, the pièce de résistance is a moonlit snowmobile expedition under the star-studded Lappish sky, chasing the elusive Northern Lights.
Private Sauna and Dinner in a Glass Igloo
Picture an evening cradled by nature, beside a serene lake, and enveloped by whispering forests. This Lapland escapade promises unforgettable moments. Your expert guide tends to the wood-burning sauna, sharing ancient Finnish relaxation traditions. Nearby, a wooden pontoon extends into the serene lake, where the courageous can plunge into an icy “avanto.” Discover Lapland’s culinary secrets with a dining experience where local flavours are crafted over an open fire. After dinner, witness the dazzling constellations and the Northern Lights dance across the Finnish skyline from the warmth of your glass cocoon.
Private Northern Lights Photography Expedition
Embark into Lapland’s enchanting wilderness to capture the mesmerising Northern Lights. Your adventure begins with a briefing on weather conditions, Aurora forecasts, and potential destinations. Accompanied by seasoned guides, you’ll set out on an Aurora hunt, armed with real-time information to guide you to the optimal viewing spots. Receive expert advice on camera settings for stunning photos, or let your photography guides craft artistic shots for you. As you leave the vehicle behind, continue on foot into the heart of nature, seeking the perfect vantage points to witness this celestial spectacle.
Dining
Nova Skyland Hotel
Indulge in Lapland’s finest flavours at Restaurant Nova Skyland in Santa Claus Village. Discover a menu that blends traditional Nordic ingredients like salmon, reindeer, and king crab with modern twists. Savour starters like lobster soup with a fennel salad and enjoy a reindeer topside roast with horseradish, butter and beetroot purée, served with Lappish potato. Top off your meal with signature cocktails like Tipsy Santa or a traditional Finnish coffee—a cloudberry liqueur with vodka and whipped cream.
Arctic SnowHotel
Arctic SnowHotel’s Ice Restaurant, one of three exceptional dining venues on-site, stands out as the most adventurous. Each year, talented ice sculptors craft this restaurant into a unique masterpiece. Inside its thick snow walls adorned with intricate snow and ice art, guests can relish a three-course meal, including dessert served on an ice plate. The menu boasts an array of delectable flavours, from velvety mushroom soup with malt bread croutons and tar vinegar to braised Arctic salmon with crayfish sauce and a delightful raspberry-vanilla bavarois. It’s a dining experience that transcends the ordinary, surrounded by the enchantment of ice and snow.
Restaurant Nili
Restaurant Nili is a harmonious blend of flavours, aromas, and ambience. Absorb the spectacle of skilled and spirited chefs through open kitchen shutters. The restaurant’s culinary philosophy revolves around pristine Lappish and Finnish ingredients, prepared with unwavering passion from inception to plate. The restaurant offers three distinct sections: the primary dining room, the more spacious Nili’s Nest and the much cosier and more private “Reindeer Room”, accommodating 20 guests. The decor exudes authenticity, featuring genuine Lappish craftsmanship and materials like Lappish wood, reindeer horns, and supple reindeer leather.
Accommodation
The Glass Resort at Santa Claus Village
Nestled in the heart of the enchanting Santa Claus Village, the Glass Resort beckons you to a haven of luxury and natural splendour. This secluded gem boasts 24 exquisite Glass Apartments and one Premium Lodge—a lavish private villa immersed in the Lapland wilderness.
The Premium Lodge welcomes up to nine guests across its four ensuite bedrooms, ideal for family getaways or friend-filled staycations. Drawing inspiration from Lapland’s rich heritage, this two-story lodge spans an expansive 320m², offering space and opulence.
Immerse yourself in the Lapland experience with a large sauna, an outdoor hot tub, and an inviting fireplace. The spacious kitchen and seating area provide a perfect gathering spot, while generous glass windows frame nature’s beauty and the mesmerising Northern Lights.
As your day begins, savour a breakfast infused with local flavours at the renowned Restaurant Gallis, conveniently located in the main building.
Nova Skyland Hotel
Nestled just a 200-meter stroll from the Santa Claus Village, the five-star Nova Skyland Hotel beckons you to embrace the serenity of Lapland’s wilderness. Scattered amidst semi-detached houses, these Scandinavian-style apartments redefine rustic elegance. With four distinct types accommodating 2 to 8 guests, each unit boasts modern amenities, a private sauna, and expansive, ceiling-high windows that immerse you in Lapland’s natural splendour.
For an indulgent retreat, the Luxury Nordic Cottage, spanning 82 square meters, offers a haven of relaxation, perfect for larger families. Seeking seclusion? Explore the newly unveiled Nova Galaxy Village, a tranquil and remote hideaway that reveals Lapland’s nature at its purest. It features ten Aurora huts, a welcoming reception building, an exclusive guest restaurant, and facilities for thrilling safari activities.
Here, under the Arctic skies, your chances of witnessing the elusive Aurora Borealis are maximised, promising a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. Amidst this pristine wilderness, embark on guided activities that unveil Lapland’s hidden wonders and promise unforgettable moments.
Arctic SnowHotel
For the adventurous at heart, the Arctic SnowHotel offers an otherworldly experience in the heart of Lapland. Here, 39 glass-roofed igloos await, inviting you to slumber beneath a canopy of stars and the mesmerising Northern Lights. Each igloo boasts a private Finnish sauna and impeccable insulation, shielding you from the harshest cold. Mornings greet you with breakfast served at the cosy Log restaurant.
As one of the world’s largest SnowHotels, it hosts around 70 guests. Remarkably, it takes on a unique form each year, ensuring no visit is ever the same. The rooms are true works of art, adorned with intricate ice sculptures and ethereal lighting. While here, take advantage of the ice restaurant, a realm of unforgettable dinners, and the ice bar for a frosty drink.
Seeking a more traditional dining affair? The Kota Restaurant awaits on the hotel’s lakeside, accommodating up to 100 diners. Here, the crackling fire sets a magical ambience within the cosy kota shelter, and the standout dish, glow-fried salmon fillet, promises a taste sensation like no other.
Book Your Winter Wonderland Experience Now!
Lapland’s unique blend of enchantment, adventure, and warmth offers a lifetime of memories. Contact your Personal Assistant or our award-winning lifestyle management team to learn more about customisable itineraries, including flights, accommodation, and private personalised tours and experiences.