Have you been dreaming of a white Christmas? Make the festive season an extra special experience and journey north to Rovaniemi in Finland, the official home of Santa Claus, on a magical adventure that will conjure all the nostalgia and spine-tingling excitement from childhood.
Based in the Arctic Circle within the depths of Finland’s Lapland, Santa’s Village plays host to more than 300,000 visitors each year from all corners of the globe and, we can assure you, it’s so much more than just a fun outing for kids keen to find out if they’re on the naughty or nice list; people both young or old will adore the meeting the reindeers, going to Elf School, discovering centuries-old Finnish Christmas traditions and, of course, meeting Santa. Even the biggest grinches will find it difficult not to be swept up in the magic of this winter wonderland. It’s beautiful during every season – the big guy in the red suit is up for a visit year-round – but it takes on a uniquely fairytale-like quality at Christmas time.
On 23 December, you’ll be welcomed by your hosts to Rovaniemi, dotted with frosted alpine villas and surrounded by snowy forest. Settle in with a steaming cup of cocoa by the fire and watch the glittering flakes fall outside or marvel at the vivid violets, seafoam greens and periwinkle blues of the Aurora Borealis dancing across the night skies while carving up fresh powder on a snowmobile safari. Christmas Eve is choc-full of activities, from a forest tour by four-wheeled scooter, kick sledding or skiing in the Snowfun Park, to more adventurous ones like ice hockey, ice fishing and ice golf. For those who prefer a more relaxing experience, the open fire beckons in a traditional Sami style tent.
After a fun-filled day, sit down to a decadent and delicious Christmas feast – and don’t be surprised if Santa pops in to say hello! Christmas Day and Boxing Day more exploration awaits, peppered with relaxation in cosy surrounds. Travel deeper into the majestic Finnish forest; decorate a tree with Santa’s Helpers; gain your International Reindeer’s License; and explore the Arktikum, an internationally renowned museum and science centre.
This tour departs on 23 December and books out well in advance. Prices start from US$2385 per person.
Bentours
bentours.com
P: 1800 221 712
E: enquiry@bentours.com
Naturally, December is an incredibly popular time of year to visit Rovaniemi, so plan ahead and book early or you’ll miss out.
This tip was provided by Bentours, but we’re sharing it with you because we think it’s great.