There is probably no better place in the world to celebrate Christmas with the family than Lapland. Deep in the Arctic Circle, this dazzling region allows you to meet Santa and his elves, get your blood pumping on snowmobile rides, soak your muscles in a Finnish sauna and become an avid explorer in some of the world’s most remote areas.
As soon as you get to Lapland, you cannot fail but feel like you have entered a magical wonderland. Whether it is tobogganing in unspoilt woodlands, jumping on a sleigh pulled by reindeer or getting stuck in festive songs around a blazing campfire, there is something here to suit all ages and tastes.
You cannot go all the way to Lapland and not have a private meeting with Santa himself. Head first to Santa’s Post Office, where you will be able to post pressies to loved ones back home or send a cheeky wishlist to the bearded gift-giver himself. After this, help the elves decorate cookies at the Elf Bakery, play with some of the newly-built toys at the workshop and even grab a mug of cocoa and hear a story at one of the elves’ homes.
With all that snow around, winter sports enthusiasts will not be able to resist the urge to hit the slopes. The world-class ski resort of Yllas lies within the Lapland region and offers 63 different trails accessed by 29 lifts. The apres-ski at the resort’s many bars and restaurants is pretty good too, meaning you can really enjoy the snow sports lifestyle.
If you are looking to get away from it all this Christmas, and have a magical experience the little ones will never forget, Lapland really is your best bet. Get ready, get set, snow!
Depart London Gatwick on 30 December with Monarch for a four night stay at the four star Levistar Apartments. Priced from £625 per person includes return flights and four nights bed & breakfast accommodation based on two adults and two children sharing studio with a sauna.
