8 months of planning and pre-booking the conclusion was we would go to Finland. We wanted somewhere that would guarantee snow and having done a lot of research of different countries we knew this was the place we wanted to visit.
I chose to go to Rovaniemi. Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, in northern Finland. Almost totally destroyed during World War II, today it’s a modern city known for being the "official" home town of Santa Claus, and for viewing the Northern Lights.
It took us a long time to get there- four planes to be exact- but it was worth it. Here I've gathered together my top 5 experiences in this beautiful town.
1. Husky Sledding
The most magical outdoor activity I think I've ever experienced. There are a number of husky farms in Rovaniemi. These dogs are incredible! When we arrived, they were all harnessed up and ready to go, jumping around and barking. We got a quite demo on how to stop and start and then we were off! With a pack of five dogs and one wooden sled, we trekked 14kms through the beautiful, white forest. Along the way it started snowing which just added to the magic of it. By the end of the one hour trip, the dogs looked like they wanted to go again. Apparently they can run up to 70kms a day. This was child's play! Try and book a morning time slot so you get to see the forest in some light.
2. Snowmobiling through the Forest
We booked a one hour snowmobiling tour with a company on our last day in Rovaniemi and I'm so glad we did! What we didn't realise was that the tour was just for the three of us so it was very private. This particular activity left me in awe. It legitimately felt like we were driving through Narnia. Whether you like going slow or fast- the tour guides are very accommodating.
3. Reindeer Ride and crossing the Arctic Circle
You can't go all the way to Finland and not see a reindeer. They are such beautiful animals that actually out number the locals. On Christmas Day we booked a Santa Claus safari where we snow mobiled across an iced lake to this wooden farm. There we got on board a sled and took a reindeer ride around the property. There are a number of reindeer farms across Rovaniemi where you can book these activities.
4. View the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis are a natural phenomenon that people all over the world have on their bucket list to see in their lifetime. Finland is one of the best places to see them. Don't pre book a safari or experience because there are no guarantees. The best thing to do is ask your concierge each day if they think they'll be on show and the best place to view them.
5. Santa Claus Village and the Ice Restaurant
Ah Santa Claus Village! One of the most surreal places I've visited. Here you can visit Santa, post him your Christmas wish list at the main post office, dine in an ice restaurant, shop, and ride reindeer. If you have a vision of what the North Pole should look like, then this is it. On the 23rd of December each year, you can watch Santa depart for his mission; a very special moment for children and adults of all ages.
