Embracing the Magic of Childhood: A Journey to Santa’s Home in Finland
Childhood is a fleeting enchantment, a series of precious moments when children can still believe in magic while also yearning for thrilling adventures. When my youngest daughter was 6 and my oldest was 11, we seized this unique window and embarked on an unforgettable winter voyage to discover the real Santa Claus, tucked away above the Arctic Circle.
Nestled among the snow-draped trees of northern Finland, we found a whimsical wonderland filled with reindeer-led sleighs, playful elves, child-sized snowmobiles, and glass domes designed for gazing at the captivating northern lights. If you looked closely, you might just catch a glimpse of Santa’s charming cottage.
Our adventure began in Ivalo, Finland, where cheeky (and sometimes mischievous) elves welcomed us, leading us in festive carols on the bus ride to the enchanting Lapland region. The spirit of Christmas enveloped us instantly, even Ebenezer Scrooge would have found the charm hard to resist.
This journey through snowy Finland was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience for my children—and one I’ll cherish forever. If you’re considering a trip to Lapland to meet the jolly man in red, here are five essential insights.
It’s Breathtakingly Beautiful
The remote, often harsh landscape of northern Finland is undeniably magnificent, an allure that leaves one breathless—even in the freezing cold. During the winter months, sunlight barely touches the ground, yet the ethereal midday twilight glistening on a blanket of snow feels like something out of a fairy tale. It’s a sight that demands to be experienced firsthand.
Whether seeking Santa or simply hoping to marvel at a place that seems to defy reality, you’ll be captivated by this part of the Arctic.
We found the beauty just as mesmerizing as we had anticipated. From reindeer sleigh rides to exhilarating dog sledding, our adventures expanded the horizons of our comfort zones—in the best possible way. It was like stepping into an enchanting storybook adorned with fur and elves.
Visit on Your Own or Go With a Tour
If a direct encounter with Santa sounds appealing, rest assured you can venture to the Lapland region without joining an organized tour. However, for those who prefer a more streamlined approach to planning, a packaged tour might be the simplest solution.
We traveled with Santa’s Lapland, which offers three- and four-day excursions from the U.K. to Finland. Be prepared for some sticker shock, though these packages include charter flights, accommodations, ground transfers, most meals, thermal snow gear, and a variety of winter activities, such as reindeer rides and snowmobiling.
You can enhance your experience with additional excursions like northern lights viewings or snowshoeing. Yet, with so much included, consider limiting extra activities; for instance, I’d opt for just a skiing session next time, as the slopes are conveniently nearby.
To give you an idea, our three-night “Santa’s Aurora” journey cost around $7,000 for our family of four, before any extras, which can range from $30 to $130 per person. For a more economical option, consider the two-day packages starting at about $1,300 per adult.
Should a multi-thousand-dollar package seem daunting, planning your own adventure is certainly feasible. Next time, I would opt for a connection through Helsinki to Rovaniemi, Finland, our ultimate destination.
Using All Nippon Airways miles can make business class flights to Europe quite reasonable. Once there, I’d board the overnight Santa Claus Express train for a cozy 12-hour journey from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. Although budget-friendly standard seats are available, I recommend splurging on a cabin for a more comfortable ride.
Once in Rovaniemi, the choice of winter activities is plentiful—from dog sledding to northern lights excursions. Just be sure to reserve your spots well in advance, as they fill quickly!
The Experience Is Unique
Purchasing a tour package means diving headfirst into a fully immersive holiday experience. From the moment you touch down until your departure, the air is thick with holiday spirit.
On our charter flight from the U.K. to Finland, it was clear this was not an ordinary journey. The cabin glowed with warm red lights as Christmas carols accompanied our ascent to 36,000 feet.
Upon arrival and while retrieving our luggage, we were greeted by playful elves, who delighted in tossing snowballs and playfully rearranging monitors. Leaning into this enchanting chaos makes the experience all the richer.
Lodging came courtesy of the Star Arctic Hotel, a high-end option in the region. Located right on the slopes of Saariselka, Europe’s northernmost ski resort, it was ideal for families seeking adventure.
We explored different lodging options during our visit. Our first night was spent in an Aurora Glass Cabin, designed for admiring the elusive northern lights. Although we didn’t see the lights, we awoke to stunning views of the serene, snowy landscape.
Subsequently, we moved to a suite that featured a sauna—a perfect retreat after a day filled with winter activities.
Exciting Adventures Await
Initially, I pictured our dog sledding excursion as a cozy ride, with my family bundled beneath blankets while a guide navigated our sled. I quickly learned how wrong I was.
Instead of merely being passengers, we took the reins ourselves. After a brief lesson, I guided our sled and my daughter along snowy trails—equal parts exhilarating and terrifying.
Snowmobiling was equally immersive; my daughter even got to drive a miniature snowmobile attached to a pole, creating a lifelong memory.
Culinary Experiences
Our Santa’s Lapland package included meals—served buffet-style—though most options leaned towards traditional Finnish fare. Expect plenty of salmon on your plate, with chicken nuggets available for picky eaters. If your family has culinary preferences, consider packing snacks or making stops for familiar foods.
Sharing the Journey
Tour groups usually consist of fellow families eager to savor the experience together. While you might encounter some strong personalities, the excitement surrounding the holiday spirit helps foster camaraderie among travelers.
Meeting Santa
Traveling to Finland’s Lapland region means meeting not just Santa but experiencing the charm of his home. One afternoon, our reindeer sleigh ride brought us to an inviting red hut nestled in the woods, where a friendly Santa welcomed us, complete with letters my kids had sent him weeks prior. It was an unforgettable touch that added even more magic to a remarkable experience.
Prepare for the Cold
While Santa’s cottage offers warmth, the Arctic wilderness is another story. During our late-November visit, it was around 0 degrees Fahrenheit outside. Even short strolls required layers of thermal gear to stay comfortable.
If you book an organized tour, essential clothing will often be provided, but it’s crucial to pack quality base layers to ensure warmth underneath the provided gear. Remember, despite being bundled up, the cold can still nip at exposed skin.
The Bottom Line
We’ve enjoyed skiing in Canada, marveled at the landscapes of Alaska, and explored the fjords of Norway, but nothing compares to the experience of visiting Santa in his serene woodland cottage in Finland.
Every family trip holds its unique charm, but our time in the Lapland region will forever be etched in our hearts. While you don’t have to journey to the Arctic to find holiday magic, those who do will likely bring home memories that last a lifetime.