Flights from major cities in the UK have made travelling to Lapland easier and the trips are available right throughout the festive period.
Lapland is the homeland of the Sami people, in a vast region that covers a choice of destinations in Finland. It is 200kms north of the Arctic Circle and is one of Europe's best unspoilt wildernesses with gently rounded hills and snow laden forests.
In addition to meeting Father Christmas, there are usually a wide range of additional activities that holiday companies offer. It can include husky sledding, sleigh rides, tobogganing, even ice fishing on a frozen lake!
We asked our friends at SantasLapland.com for advice on visiting Lapland:
What is the youngest age you would recommend to go on the trip?
We feel the best age for the children to fully appreciate the experience of Lapland is from three years of age. We understand it is tempting to take small children to see Santa Claus; however we do not recommend taking children under the age of two years due to the extreme temperatures.
How cold does it get?
The average temperature is -12c and can go as low as -35c.
What clothing would you recommend?
In addition to the complimentary thermal outer-suit, woollen socks, snow-boots, outer gloves and hats that are all provided free of charge, it is recommended you bring mittens or gloves (ideally waterproof ones for children’s snow play) to be worn next to the skin, balaclavas or scarves and hats ideally with flaps or that can be pulled down to cover ears. Several layers are far more insulating, so the best bet is thermal underwear, shirt or roll-neck fleece and a jacket under your outer-suit when outdoors.
What activities would you say are a must and should not be missed out on?
There are a wide range of activities available, with the following all included in every Santa’s Lapland three or four day trip:
- Snowmobile Search for Santa's log-cabin home
- A private family meeting with the ‘real’ Santa Claus!
- Magical delivery of your children’s letter to Santa and his elves
- A special gift from Santa for all children under 13
- Santa's Elves and Igloo Fantasia
- Husky Sled Drive and/or Ride - One of the most exhilarating activities especially for adults who get to drive the sled while the children get to ride in the sled.
- Reindeer Sleigh Ride - An activity for all the family, experience the gentle sleigh ride glide through the snow, led by reindeer and a Sami guide.
- Snow & Ice Fun Activities - Toboggan Fun, Mini Skidoo, Snow Hockey and Ice Fishing plus more. The tobogganing and mini skidoo rides prove to be favourites with the children, along with the Ice hockey which is great fun.
- Souvenir ‘driving licence’ for reindeer and huskies
- Arctic Circle Certificate
- Lunch and Refreshments on ‘Search for Santa’ Day
- Thermal outer-suits, boots and accessories hire
- Gala Dinner included with half-board option in hotels, and a festive dinner in the Christmas Cabins
Additional Optional Adventures are available at an extra charge which range from a Family Snowmobile Safari to a visit to a husky or reindeer farm, plus other adventures to enjoy together.
How long are the flights?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes
We are especially keen on maximising our chances of see the Northern Lights, what would you recommend to increase our chances?
You may able to see the Northern Lights in town when in Lapland, when they make an appearance they can be seen from early evening as soon as it gets dark throughout the night. We cannot, however, predict the weather and seeing the Northern Lights all depends on a clear night sky. Taking a snowmobile trip away from town is a way of lessening the light pollution around you and makes your chances of seeing the Lights greater.
How much should we expect a holiday to Lapland would cost?
The best way to see the most up-to-date prices is to call Santa’s helpful team on 01483 791 915 or to visit SantasLapland.com – you can also order a brochure or sign up for Santa’s mailing list whilst you’re there!