Lapland = Santa. Well not always. In fact, it’s only really one month a year when this winter wonderland is awash with families all on the hunt for the man with the beard. But visit outside of December, when Santa is taking a well-earned rest, and you’ll find a much quieter, rather surreal place which is perfect for adults (and older children) to indulge in a host of snowy activities.
The real treat of travelling this far north is the spectacular scenery and a magical stillness that’s further enhanced by the fact that it barely gets light - everywhere is cast with an eerie blue tint.
With the lack of light, it makes the (incessant) howl of the dogs at the Husky Ranch even more chilling. Here you will have the opportunity to mush your own team of these beautiful animals. But if you snooze you lose, literally, as a slight release of the break and they’re off.
Or how about accelerating down a Christmas tree lined track on a snow mobile and out into the vast snowy wilderness? This is pretty exhilarating stuff.
A more sedate activity is being taken for a reindeer ride by a local Sami guide. Even if you are not on the hunt for Santa, it’s still lovely to get up close to reindeers in the snowy wonderland. Snuggled up under animal fur in a sleigh slipping through the silent forest is rather romantic, despite the view of reindeer bottom!
Afterwards, getting to know your local Sami guide and their way of life is really interesting. Sami are indigenous Laplanders who were traditionally semi-nomadic reindeer herders. They may invite you into their tepee, where they will entertain you with local songs and rustle up some rather delicious pancakes on the fire.
For those who prefer activities on their own two feet, snow shoeing and cross country skiing are great ways to explore the dramatic scenery.
Or you could try your hand at ice fishing, where you cut a hole in the frozen lake and wait to see what catches….!
After a day out enjoying all kinds of snow-based activities, a sauna session is just the ticket.
Whilst at night, head out on a special Aurora hunting trip to try and spot the Northern Lights and, if you are lucky, you will see the spectacular Aurora Borealis painting the night sky with a dazzling display of green, orange and purple illuminations.
If you haven’t got children in tow or yours are a little past the Santa stage, you’ll find Lapland a magical winter wonderland of a different sort and perfect for a long weekend. There’s plenty more to see than Santa and no shortage of things to do for those who enjoy the outdoors.
For more information on a trip to Lapland, either as a Santa experience or as an adult’s only adventure trip, please do get in touch.