Magical Lapland
Early on 23rd December we set off to the airport where the fun really did begin. The flight soon passed as there was so much fun and festivities on board. We started our descent and the scenery was beautiful, then we spotted reindeer as we disembarked. We were met by Samis and their reindeer and into the terminal where we were very surprised to see a few cheeky elves up to no good!
We boarded our coach to collect all our thermal gear, over-suits, boots, socks, gloves and hats which we certainly needed as it was around minus 20 degrees! Then it was a few minutes to our accommodation. We had chosen a lodge which I am so pleased about as it added to the magic. It was surrounded by snow-capped trees with an amazing space to play around in. Then the fun part of exploring the village which we were staying in. We collected some sledges and had many hours of tobogganing, then a little wander took us to the local pub where we enjoyed a Glogi and hot chocolate!
The food was served in the main hotel building. It was great to try some local specialities and there was something for everyone.
I think we woke up on Christmas Eve not quite believing it was all real. We chose to have a whole day to ourselves although you can book extra tours. I’m so pleased we kept this free as it really was such a good day playing in the snow, exploring the village and then back to our lodge where we enjoyed some Christmas tunes whilst the girls played. Then it was time for the girls to leave their stockings out, write a quick note and leave the obligatory snack, carrot and drink out. We were all so excited that evening to think that we would be actually meeting Father Christmas the next day after his travels.
Christmas Day – he had been and even taken the time to write a note saying how he was looking forward to seeing us all. The first few hours were spent opening presents with lots more excitement and a hearty breakfast before we took to the coach in ‘search of Santa’. It was a short journey to the most magical setting which was not commercial at all. There were lots of activities for us to do; reindeer sleigh ride, meeting elves, igloos, ice fishing, ice bar, skidoos and my absolute favourite – the Husky sled ride! They really race across the snow and through the winter wonderland. Ade and I took turns to ‘drive’, it certainly was a workout and so exhilarating!
We were ready for lunch which was nice and warming and then it was off on a snow mobile through the forest to find Santa. We found his lodge hidden away in the trees where his elves met us and took us in to see him. My girls faces are something I will never forget and will cherish that moment forever. We all still talk about it now, some years on and their special gifts still have pride of place in their bedrooms. We went back for a special celebration meal and fireworks.
On our last day, we had the morning to squeeze some more snow fun in before heading back to the airport, back to the UK where we couldn’t stop telling friends and family of our adventures.
I would not hesitate to recommend this trip of a lifetime, young or old it really is a must. I am so excited writing about it and reliving it again so would love to help you with your planning.