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From £3804 per family of 4*
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3 Night Arctic Santa Adventure in the Forest, Saariselkä

Highlights

  • Experience one of nature's great wonders in total comfort and luxury
  • Combine tranquillity, pure air and beautiful nature for a truly special Arctic experience
  • A magical visit to see Father Christmas himself!
  • Meet the Huskies and go on a Husky safari
From £3804 per family of 4*
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Room #
Adults
15+
- +
Children
3-14
- +
Infants
0-2 (please read FAQS)
- +
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3 Nights

Trip Dates
Request Availability'

Trip Dates

Please select
Clear dates
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Guests

Room #
Adults
15+
- +
Children
3-14
- +
Infants
0-2 (please read FAQS)
- +
Add room
Done

What you'll do

Overview

This package is only available from 15th December to 6th January.

Nestled in the midst of the snow covered forest in tranquil Lappish nature, this is a winter escape in a exclusive boutique resort like no other. Step outside into the deep powdery snow and meet the reindeer and huskies, try snowshoeing and meet Santa Claus himself in his magical forest cottage.

Your festive family adventure begins the moment you touch down in Ivalo airport, where you’ll be picked up and taken to your beautiful accommodation. Nestled in the snow-covered pine forest, there is a large log cabin housing a lovely restaurant, bar and lounge area, with cosy log burners, decorated Christmas trees and amazing winter views over the pine forest and the river.

You can relax completely in your forest retreat, enjoy a drink a the bar and delicious meals made with fresh local ingredients. The children are also well catered for, creating a magical experience for all the family. By day you will embark on exciting outdoor activities like meeting the huskies and cantering off on a snow safari by sled, or getting to know the reindeer herders at their farm o learn and feed about these majestic creatures. Of course you will also have time to visit Santa Claus himself in his magical forest cottage.

If you haven’t found the right date to suite your trip we have an extensive range from rooms, suites, unforgettable Aurora Cabins and the lovely log cabins and villas for larger groups.

*Based on a family of 3 travelling from 15th December – 6th January in a Wilderness Room

A full example itinerary is detailed below, activity timings can differ slightly, your own personal schedule will be given to you upon check in.

Arrival Day

On arrival at Ivalo airport you will be met and taken directly to your accommodation for your magical Christmas break. Drive through the ethereal pine forest, and arrive at your very own cabin, nestled within the still, white forest.

Take some time to settle in, unpack or explore, then you can enjoy a delicious dinner in the restaurant.

You will be staying in a beautiful cabin, with panoramic views of the  snow covered  Christmas wonderland and the inky black polar night sky. With any luck, you’ll be able to witness the spectacle of the Northern Lights on your very first night in Lapland.

 

Meet the Reindeer, Snowmobiling and Meeting Santa

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Northern Finland with a guided tour to meet the enchanting reindeer. Reindeer herding is integral to the region’s history, and this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into this way of life. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about the Sámi culture and the daily lives of these magnificent animals. Enjoy the unforgettable experience of feeding the curious reindeer, who might even eat right out of your hand.

For the kids, they’ll be able to experience some real Lapland magic, as they meet the ‘real’ Santa in his home!  A snowmobile sleighride will take you through the forest on a quest to discover Santa’s hidden cabin.  If you’re able to locate the cabin, you’ll be warmly welcomed by Santa himself, who will invite your family for an intimate conversation and present a symbolic gift for the children.

This afternoons activity is perfect for those who have never tried snowmobiling before. First you will get familiar with the snowmobile, have full safety instructions and a driving lesson. After everyone feels comfortable, we will head out for a small journey into the nearby surroundings through the beautiful Lappish countryside. Children will be sitting in a sleigh pulled behind the guides snowmobile.

Satisfyingly wearied and chilled from a day in the open, you’ll head for another warming, hearty dinner, warm your bones by an open fire, and spend the evening at your leisure, waiting for the spectacular Borealis to burn across the clear night sky.

 

Husky Safari & Aurora camp

After a hearty breakfast, set out on a husky safari, swishing through the silent, snow-covered forest on your own private sleigh.

Meet these beautiful, energetic dogs that will take you exploring through the glistening  wilderness, on a safari you are sure never to forget. The dog sled is shared by two people who can take turns driving the sled whilst the other sits back and enjoys the ride and the scenery. Jump on a sled and enjoy the thrill of the snow and speed! Transfers to farm are included.

The Husky experience will take approximately 3hrs (1 hour driving time) which will give you the afternoon at your leisure. Why not rent Snowshoes or Cross Country Ski’s to explore the trails and paths that snake through this untouched, pristine part of the world and discover dramatic fells, hidden clearings and frozen lakes.

Back to the resort for a generous and well deserved Lunch, enjoy a relaxing break – maybe try a Finnish sauna (bookable locally) and take a break before the afternoons Aurora experience!

This activity takes you to the amazing forest surroundings. You will be comfortably seated in a sledge that is pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. This way you can enjoy the northern sky all the way to the camp site. At the camp there is a hut with an roaring open fire to warm you up on a cold night of Aurora hunting. At the camp pancakes will be prepared on the open fire, and there will be warm drinks to keep you warm. The camp has a minimum amount of light pollution, so it is perfect for viewing the Northern Lights that will hopefully show up in the sky.

Activity timings may differ slightly, your confirmed schedule will be given to you upon check in.

Farewell

Your final morning in the Lapland. Wake up at a leisurely time  (check-out isn’t until 11 AM), and enjoy a final breakfast by the log fire as you reflect on the wonderful adventure you’ve had with us.

We’ll transfer you back to the airport, and look forward to maybe seeing you again!

What's included

Included

  • 3 nights accommodation
  • Shared Transfers to and from Ivalo airport (private optional)
  • Full board meals at the onsite restaurant (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
  • Guide for all organised activities
  • Snowsuits, gloves and boots for the duration of your stay
  • Family Husky Safari
  • Meet the Reindeer visit
  • Meet Santa Experience
  • Snowmobile Safari
  • Aurora camp

Accommodation

Wilderness Room Aurora Cabin Riverside Cabin Superior Sauna Room Panorama Log Cabin Wilderness Room (with 1 night in Aurora Cabin) Superior Sauna Room (with 1 night in Aurora Cabin)

Wilderness Room

Each Wilderness Room has a bathroom with supplies, wardrobe, and hairdryer. The rooms are available with either a double bed or twin beds. Tastefully decorated with décor inspired by the surrounding arctic nature who evoke the refined spirit of Lapland.

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 3 En suite bathroom Hairdryer Tea and coffee set

Aurora Cabin

Aurora Cabin is an extraordinary way to experience a trip to Lapland. Admire the star-filled sky or witness the awesome spectacle of the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. The laser-heated glass-roof opens up into the northern sky, directly above the bed.

The cabins are equipped with twin beds or double bed, and there is also a possibility for an extra bed. Each Aurora Cabin has a private bathroom with shower and has either its own sauna or its own interior fireplace."

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 4 Glass roof En suite bathroom Hairdryer

Riverside Cabin

Riverside Log Cabins are our most spectacular accommodation. In these log cabins, modern construction and traditional log material are skilfully combined and the result is a unique whole. The Riverside Log Cabin has comfortable living room area for relaxation, own fireplace and accommodation for up to five people. A direct view of the Arctic Fell River and a private sauna crown the whole.

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 5 Sauna Fireplace Kitchenette

Superior Sauna Room

Each Superior Sauna Room has a bathroom with private sauna, a double bed and a convertible sofa.

With a view over tranquil nature, the rooms are decorated with wilderness style who brings a final touch to the Lappish atmosphere.

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 4 Sauna En suite bathroom Hairdryer

Panorama Log Cabin

With a panoramic view over pristine wilderness, these Cabins offer a magical way to experience Lapland. The Panorama Log Cabins are equipped with double bed, bathroom, private sauna, kitchenette, and fireplace. With the big panorama windows combined with a bit of luck, you may even see the Northern Lights from the warmth of your Panorama Log Cabin.

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 4 Panorama Window Sauna Fireplace

Wilderness Room (with 1 night in Aurora Cabin)

Stay three nights in a Wilderness room with the first or last night in an Aurora Cabin

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 3 Glass roof En suite bathroom Hairdryer

Superior Sauna Room (with 1 night in Aurora Cabin)

Stay three nights in a Superior Sauna room with the first or last night in an Aurora Cabin

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 4 Glass roof Sauna En suite bathroom
Your local host

Maaret and Team

Our hotels are in nature´s most beautiful places: by lakes and rivers, away from light pollution and busy city life.

We value nature, good service and quality in everything we do. We want our guests to feel special during their stay with us. We serve our guests every step of the way, helping with airport transfers and offering high-quality accommodation, tasty meals and a great variety of activities both in summer and winter. Come and feel the magic of the wilderness with us!

Our hotels are in nature´s most beautiful places: by lakes and rivers, away from light pollution and busy city life.

We value nature, good service and quality in everything we do. We want our guests to feel special during their stay with us. We serve our guests every step of the way, helping with airport transfers and offering high-quality accommodation, tasty meals and a great variety of activities both in summer and winter. Come and feel the magic of the wilderness with us!

Maaret and Team image

Location

You will fly into Ivalo airport which is well connected by Finnair.

The transfer time from Ivalo Airport is approximately 35-45 minute drive. Your destination is around 15min drive into the Forest from Saariselka town centre.

Far north of the Arctic Circle, the area you’ll be staying in is a vast expanse of pristine pine forest that is home to bears, golden eagles, wolverines, and thousands of reindeer. The magical landscapes of the forest and tranquil nature will ensure your holiday is one to remember. The boutique accommodation is on the banks of the river, creating a magical atmosphere with gushing water and deep snow covered forest.

The on site restaurant serves delicious meals made with fresh local produce, and there is a bar and cosy lounge with Christmas trees, festive decorations and cosy log burners.

There is even a Finnish Sauna right on the river bank, with a deck to allow you to to take an ice cold dip in the river – another bucket list experience you can add to this wonderful trip!

This is your perfect wilderness retreat with high-quality service, meals and accommodation.

FAQs

When can I go?

Family Xmas trip which include meeting Santa run all through December until 6th January.

I have an infant, can they participate in the activities?

Minimum age for children on the activities is 3 years old. Unfortunately 2 years old or younger cannot take part. Our host can arrange to split the group for activities to assist with childcare, so everyone gets the opportunity to experience each activity.

What ages do the child prices apply to?

Child pricing applies to ages 3-14 years. Ages of 15+ will be classed as an adult.

Is thermal clothing provided for guests?

Thermal overalls, boots and gloves are included in all our packages. Unfortunately the resort does not offer winter clothing options for infants.

When will I do all of my activities?

Upon check in at your resort you will be given your full schedule of exciting activities.

Will I be woken up when the Aurora Borealis are visible?

You can hire a Aurora alarm for the duration of your stay, at a small charge

Are there any additional facilities available on-site at the resort?

Yes, they offer a public Sauna, with separate times for men and women (pay locally). The Resort has an on-site restaurant, bar and reception

Is there Internet available at the Resort?

Yes! WiFi is a complimentary service of the resort. The Wi-Fi works in lobby and restaurant area.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in: 15:00
Check-out: 11:00

The resort can storage your luggage in the reception while you’re waiting for check-in or while you’re waiting for transportation after check-out.

When are the meals served?

Breakfast Buffet 8:00-10:00*
Lunch Buffet 12:00-14:00*
Dinner Buffet 18:00-20:00*

Buffet times may vary during the seasons and between the destinations. The reception will inform you the specific times upon arrival.

Does the package include a Reindeer sleigh ride?

No, the meet the Reindeer experience doesn't include a sleigh ride. It is a guided tour that will give you an insight on the way of life of Reindeer herding. The guide will tell you more about the Sámi culture and the life of a Reindeer. You will feed the Reindeer – the curious animals might even come up and eat out of your hand.

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