There’s simply no better way to spend the festive season than in the home of Father Christmas himself. Lapland is a Finnish frozen wonderland, boasting beautiful scenery and unrivaled Christmas activities. So don your warmest clothes – this magical land doesn’t come without a weather warning – and enjoy a last-minute Christmas-y getaway, or get inspired for next year!
See
The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are a bucket list must, and with scientists predicting a peak in solar activity this December they’re set to be an incredible backdrop to Christmas in Lapland. The further north you go the more of a chance you’ll have of seeing this natural wonder, so head up to Rovaniemi or even Sodankylä to ensure optimal viewing conditions.
Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
As one of Lapland’s most beautiful national parks, Pallas-Yllästunturi has many marked trails that lead visitors to a number of unparalleled lookout spots. The park – mostly comprised of fells and expansive forests – is popular among skiers, and is also open for gentle rambles.
Do
Lapland Safaris offers a number of truly Christmas-y activities – like being pulled through the area’s glittering white landscapes by teams of reindeer or huskies. It’s one of the most traditional and peaceful ways to travel, and undoubtedly one of the most festive. Alternatively, the company also offers snowmobiling, skiing and ice fishing trips.
The town of Rovaniemi is home to what is probably the most festive Christmas market in existence. Named “Santa Claus Village,” the market features the expected shops and plethora of souvenirs, but this is no run-of-the-mill event. Santa himself is in the village everyday to spread his goodwill: Rovaniemi is his hometown, after all.
Stay
The Ice Hotel – the world’s largest hotel made of ice and snow – provides Christmas accommodations you won’t forget. The hotel’s rooms, which include Snow Rooms and the Art Suites, come with different ice and snow features, all individually sculpted and with enough fur and feathers to keep the fairly chilly 23-degree Farenheit temperatures at bay.
Glass Igloo, Hotel Kakslauttanen
A glass igloo could be the only thing between you and the Northern Lights if you choose to spend the night at the remote Hotel Kakslauttanen. Built from special thermal glass, the structures will ensure you feel nice and toasty. With a special honeymoon suite, five queen suites and a traditional log house, the accommodations can be tailored to different group sizes.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas
