Christmas may only be a mere two weeks away but there’s still time to fit in a quick trip to Lapland for a magical pre-festive experience. Around this time of year you can expect sub-zero temperature with averages reaching as low as -4°C but you’ll have plenty to do to keep you warm. Reindeer sleigh rides, story time around a crackling fire and a chance to experience Lappish culture…Whether it’s for a day or a week, there’s nowhere better place to enjoy a snow-fuelled adventure while exploring a beautiful wintry wonderland. Ozel Rowland rounds up the best last minute getaway deals to Lapland before the year is out
Welcome to Lapland! © Sami Keinänen
Santa day trip
For a short and sweet arctic adventure out in the snow, Thompson is offering a day trip to the icy Snow Village of Kittila. You’ll have a full itinerary from the moment you land, pick up your suit and snow boots, and can expect an action-packed day of snow sliding, sleigh rides and snowshoeing. Should you fancy a break from the chill of the outdoors, you can warm up over lunch, which is included in the package, or take part in a choice of festive indoor activities. At the height of your trip, you’ll be given the chance to meet Santa himself in his log cabin before you jet off back home. Package deals start from £322pp based on two adults sharing.
Santa’s spectacular
For a bargain family deal to Lapland head over to Santa’s Lapland, which is currently holding a flash sale on one of their package holidays. The deal is open to both small and large families with prices starting from £499pp for four days. You’ll be greeted by one of Santa’s helpers on arrival at Ivalo airport, you’ll then be driven to your resort in the wonderful Saariselkä where you’ll be given your daily itinerary, which details an extra set of optional adventures to take part in. After your welcome on day one, the adventure kicks off on day two with a range of exciting activities available, including a trip to see the Northern Lights. You’ll be off to find Santa’s Grotto in a snow mobile on day three and then get the chance to do your own thing on day four. There are only a few seats left from flights departing from Bristol, Manchester and the East Midlands, so get in there now!
Santa’s Magic
Laplandtripsdirect.com are offering a three-day trip to Santa’s homeland from £729 per adult and £439 per child with up to 40 per cent off if booked online. Highlights in include a sleigh ride through the magical woods in Saariselkä to Igloo Fantasia, where you can admire striking ice sculptures and join in on the fun and games with Santa’s elves before meeting the main man himself. Along with a whole list of goodies, the price includes return charter flights, a full itinerary of festive things do to, gifts for children under 13 and a festive Gala dinner.
White Christmas
Enjoy an enchanting experience this year with this deal from Transun, which will whisk you away to the snowy setting of Hetta just in time for Christmas. You can choose from three different places to stay and the price includes a whole host of fun safari activities in the snow throughout your stay. On Christmas day you’ll get the chance to go on a 40-minute snowmobile adventure before taking off on a reindeer sleigh in search of Santa. After a private meeting with Santa it’ll be back to your accommodation in time for a slap-up Christmas dinner. Flights depart from Birmingham and London Gatwick airport. Prices start from £1299, and with a few free seats left for children you won’t want to miss out on this unique opportunity.
Happy Christmas!
