3 Night Festive 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 £4148 per family of 4*
Trip Dates
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Trip Dates
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Guests
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Room #
Adults
15+
- +
Children
3-14
- +
Infants
0-2 (please read FAQS)
- +
Guests
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Request Availabilty

3 Nights

Trip Dates
Request Availability'

Trip Dates

Please select
Clear dates

Guests

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

What you'll do

Overview

Escape to the Arctic circle and the official home of Santa Claus in Lapland, on a Christmas holiday where you can discover thrilling husky rides, explore the frozen landscape by reindeer, and with luck, witness the magical spectacle of the Northern Lights

Your festive family adventure begins the moment you touch down in Ivalo airport, where you’ll be picked up and transferred to your beautiful accommodation. Nestled in the snow-covered pine forest, your cabins allow you and the family uninterrupted views of the dark sky of the polar night.

With clear skies and the right conditions, you will be able to witness nature’s most spectacular light show, the aurora borealis, all from the comfort of your cosy cabin and the base for the remainder of your stay.

Take part in thrilling family activities, from hissing along snow-covered tracks and frozen fells on a husky sled, exploring the winter wonderland to visit a Reindeer Farm to learn and feed about these majestic creatures.

And of course, it wouldn’t be a Christmas holiday in Lapland without setting off in search of the man himself, a family-orientated activity that will provide the festive magic for those kids (and adults) who are still swept away by the spirit of Christmas.

*Based on a family of 4  travelling from 1st – 15th December

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

Additional activities available:

Snowmobile Safari – 2 hours

Ice Fishing Trip with Snowmobile Sleigh including lunch*

Aurora Snowmobiling

Arrival Day

Land in Ivalo airport, where you will be met and taken directly to your accommodation for the duration of your Christmas holiday. 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, which provides panoramic surroundings of this Christmas winter wonderland and the pitch 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.

 

Meals: Dinner

Reindeer Farm Visit & Meet 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.

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.

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Husky Safari

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.

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

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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!

 

 

Meals: Breakfast

What's included

Included

  • 3 nights accommodation
  • Shared Transfers to and from Ivalo airport
  • 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
  • Husky Safari 3hrs (1hr driving time)
  • Reindeer Farm visit
  • Meet Santa Experience

Accommodation

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

Aurora Cabin

Aurora Cabin is an extraordinary way to experience your time in 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 En suite bathroom Fireplace

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

Wilderness Premium Room

Wilderness Premium Rooms offer a modern touch to your stay. Situated in a separate building just a short distance from the reception and restaurant, these rooms with double beds provide a modern and comfortable retreat.

Facilities

Maximum occupancy 3 En suite bathroom Hairdryer Tea and coffee set

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 two 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

Wilderness Premium Room (with 1 night in Aurora Cabin)

Stay two nights in a Wilderness Premium 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 two 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!

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 Wilderness 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 taiga forest and tranquil nature will ensure your holiday is one to remember.

This is your perfect wilderness retreat with high-quality service, meals and accommodation. With only 40 rooms, 20 glass igloos and 13 cabins, you can expect a friendly personalised service.

 

FAQs

When can I go?

Family Xmas trip which include meeting Santa run all through late November 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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