Finland

From snow-secured scenes and powerful frosty oceans to supernatural regular light shows, Lapland is the ideal spot to encounter the amazing idea of the Arctic Circle. On this winter experience, we’ll see everything – venturing out from charming Oulu to Santa’s Village in Rovaniemi and back once more (and ceasing off at a reindeer ranch, a picturesque UNESCO geopark and a palace made completely from snow en route). Prepared for a sample of experience?

1. Day 1: Oulu

In and around Oulu

What better way to get to know the snow-dusted city of Oulu (and your fellow travellers) than by diving into a first-day orientation tour? Along the way, our local guide will introduce us to the idyllic Pikisaari district. Later on this afternoon, we’ll travel to the mystical Rokua Geopark – where we’ll set out to explore the magnificent landscape on a snowshoe excursion. After rounding off our adventure with a hot drink in a traditional Finnish hut, we’ll return to Oulu – where we’ll enjoy a delicious welcome dinner back at the hotel. Accommodation: Lapland Hotels Oulu (or similar)

Meals:
– Dinner

2. Day 2: Oulu – Kemi

In and around Kemi

After this morning’s breakfast, we’ll move on to Kemi – where we’ve an appointment to keep at the world-famous SnowCastle. We’ll have plenty of time to explore the resort’s fairytale-like chapel and ice sculptures before we transfer to the pier – where we’ll climb aboard the mighty Sampo Icebreaker for a once-in-a-lifetime cruise. If you like, you can even take to the Arctic waters to float amongst the ice! This evening, we’ll come together for a memorable dinner in the Ice Restaurant. Accommodation: Kemi SnowCastle – Seaside Glass Villas (or similar)

Meals:
– Breakfast
– Dinner

3. Day 3: Kemi – Rauna – Rovaniemi

Today we set our sights on Ranua – where we’ll have the opportunity to see some fascinating Arctic species up close at Ranua Wildlife Park. Later this afternoon, there’s a quintessential Lapland experience on the cards: a snowmobile (or, if you prefer, sleigh) safari to a traditional reindeer farm, where we’ll meet a family of third generation reindeer herders. Then: onwards to our hotel in Rovaniemi. Accommodation: Arctic City Hotel (or similar)

Meals:
– Breakfast

4. Day 4: Rovaniemi

A magical morning at Santa’s Village awaits us! While here, we’ll have the chance to wander the many charming shops, take a look around Santa’s Post Office – or even pay a visit to the man himself. The remainder of the afternoon will be yours to spend as you please in Rovaniemi before we reconvene for an after-dark snowmobile safari. As we ride through the snow-covered forest and along the frozen river, we may be lucky enough to catch glimpses of the enchanting Northern Lights. When the safari is over, we’ll warm up with a snack and hot drinks by the campfire before resting our heads back at the hotel. Accommodation: Arctic City Hotel (or similar)

Meals:
– Breakfast

5. Day 5: Rovaniemi – Kemijarvi – Kuusamo

In and around Kuusamo

Today there’s a treat in store for the gastronomes among us: a special ‘wild food’ experience at a wonderful lakeside restaurant in Kemijärvi. We’ll then press onwards through the skiing village of Ruka towards Kuusamo, where you’ll be free to make your own dining arrangements before we gather together to enjoy one of the highlights of our tour: a snowshoe excursion in search of the Northern Lights. We’ll stop to take in the breathtaking views as our guide tells stories of the famous natural light display and the local Arctic wildlife. Accommodation: Holiday Club Kuusamo (or similar)

Meals:
– Breakfast
– Lunch

6. Day 6: Kuusamo – Syöte

There’s no better way to get to the heart of Kuusamo than with a visit to a husky farm. While here, we’ll learn how to drive a traditional husky sleigh like a local – with the opportunity to embark on a thrilling ride through the snow-covered landscape afterwards. Later on this afternoon, we’ll travel deeper into the wilds of Lapland as we set a course for Syöte. Dinner tonight will be another group affair. Accommodation: Hotel Iso Syöte & Safari (or similar)

Meals:
– Breakfast
– Dinner

7. Day 7: Syöte

Today’s first activity? An ice fishing experience on a scenic frozen lake – including fireside drinks in a traditional Finnish hut. After drilling holes into the ice, we’ll lower our lines, cross our fingers and wait for a bite! After that, you’ll be free to relax and soak in your stunning surroundings before we come back together this evening for our grand finale: a farewell dinner back at the hotel. It’s the perfect opportunity to share photographs, stories and contact details! Accommodation: Hotel Iso Syöte & Safari (or similar)

Meals:
– Breakfast
– Dinner

8. Day 8: Syöte – Oulu

One last breakfast, then it’s time to hit the road. After journeying back to Oulu, we’ll say farewell.

Meals:
– Breakfast