Christmas in Lapland, Finland - a winter wonderland that sparks the imagination of people of all ages. Imagine a place where the snow-covered trees glisten like diamonds, the Northern Lights dance across the sky, and the magic of Christmas is palpable in the crisp, cold air. If you're looking for a truly unique and unforgettable holiday experience, Lapland is the perfect destination for you. Here are 10 magical ways to spend Christmas in Lapland, Finland in 2024.
Lapland, Finland is a vast and remote region in the far north of the country, bordering Sweden, Norway, and Russia. It's a place of breathtaking natural beauty, with vast expanses of wilderness, frozen lakes, and snow-covered forests. During the winter months, Lapland transforms into a winter wonderland, with the snow-covered landscape stretching as far as the eye can see.
Experience the Magic of Christmas in Lapland
From dog sledding and snowmobiling to visiting Santa Claus and experiencing the Northern Lights, there are countless ways to experience the magic of Christmas in Lapland. Whether you're looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing holiday, Lapland has something for everyone.
1. Meet Santa Claus in Rovaniemi
No trip to Lapland would be complete without meeting the big man himself - Santa Claus. Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is home to the official Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa and his elves, and even send a postcard from the Arctic Circle. The village is a festive winter wonderland, complete with snow-covered trees, twinkling lights, and a range of shops and restaurants.
2. See the Northern Lights in Lapland
One of the most magical experiences you can have in Lapland is seeing the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth's magnetic field, creating a spectacular display of colored lights in the sky. Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and there are a range of tours and activities available to help you experience this natural wonder.
3. Go Dog Sledding in Lapland
Dog sledding is a fun and exhilarating way to experience the beauty of Lapland's winter landscapes. You'll be pulled by a team of happy huskies, gliding through the snow-covered forests and across frozen lakes. Many dog sledding tours also offer the opportunity to drive the sled yourself, giving you a chance to experience the thrill of mushing through the Arctic wilderness.
4. Take a Snowmobile Safari
If you're looking for an adrenaline-packed adventure, a snowmobile safari is a great way to experience the thrill of speeding through Lapland's winter landscapes. You'll be given instruction on how to drive the snowmobile, and then you'll be off, racing through the snow-covered forests and across frozen lakes. Many snowmobile safaris also offer the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
5. Relax in a Traditional Finnish Sauna
After a long day of exploring Lapland's winter landscapes, there's no better way to relax than in a traditional Finnish sauna. You'll be able to unwind and recharge in the warm, cozy atmosphere of the sauna, and many saunas also offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some saunas even offer the opportunity to take a dip in a frozen lake or roll in the snow, making for a truly invigorating experience.
6. Explore the Snowy Landscapes of Ounasvaara
Ounasvaara is a beautiful snow-covered hill in the heart of Rovaniemi, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can ski, snowboard, or simply hike to the top of the hill, taking in the breathtaking views of the snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. Ounasvaara is also a great place to see the Northern Lights, making for a truly magical experience.
7. Take a Reindeer Safari
Reindeer are an iconic symbol of Lapland, and a reindeer safari is a great way to learn more about these amazing animals. You'll be taken on a guided tour to a reindeer farm, where you'll be able to feed and pet the reindeer, and learn about their importance in Lappish culture. Many reindeer safaris also offer the opportunity to take a sleigh ride, pulled by a team of reindeer.
8. Experience the Magic of a Snowy Forest
Lapland's snowy forests are a truly magical place, with the snow-covered trees and frozen lakes creating a winter wonderland. You can explore the forests on foot, or take a guided snowshoeing tour, which allows you to experience the beauty of the forest without disturbing the natural habitat. Many forests also offer the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
9. Celebrate Christmas in a Traditional Lappish Way
Christmas is a special time in Lapland, and there are many traditional Lappish ways to celebrate the holiday. You can attend a traditional Christmas market, where you can buy local handicrafts and try traditional Lappish food. Many hotels and resorts also offer traditional Christmas dinners, complete with local specialties such as reindeer meat and cloudberry pie.
10. Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
A horse-drawn sleigh ride is a romantic and magical way to experience the beauty of Lapland's winter landscapes. You'll be pulled by a team of horses, gliding through the snow-covered forests and across frozen lakes. Many horse-drawn sleigh rides also offer the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
We hope this article has given you some ideas for magical ways to spend Christmas in Lapland, Finland. Whether you're looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing holiday, Lapland has something for everyone. So why not start planning your Christmas in Lapland today?
Gallery of Christmas in Lapland
What is the best time to visit Lapland for Christmas?
+The best time to visit Lapland for Christmas is in December, when the winter landscapes are at their most magical. However, it's worth noting that December can be very cold, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C.
What is the average temperature in Lapland in December?
+The average temperature in Lapland in December is around -10°C, although it can drop as low as -20°C or rise as high as 0°C.
What are the best things to do in Lapland at Christmas?
+There are many things to do in Lapland at Christmas, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and visiting Santa Claus. You can also take a horse-drawn sleigh ride, go skiing or snowboarding, and experience the magic of a snowy forest.