A Latvian airline is introducing a new route from the UK to Lapland, providing families with the opportunity to visit Father Christmas at his residence this winter. Flights, starting at £77, will be operated by AirBaltic and will commence in December, with bookings already open on their website. The airline will offer five new routes to Kuusamo in Finnish Lapland from various European airports, including London-Gatwick and Manchester.
Finnish Lapland, known as Santa’s home, is also a popular destination for skiing and winter sports enthusiasts. Flight reservations from London-Gatwick begin on December 13, with a twice-weekly service, while services from Manchester will start from December 10, offering once-a-week departures until March.
Kuusamo boasts attractions like Pohjolan Pirtti, Santa’s cozy cottage, providing an immersive Lapland experience. Visitors can enjoy activities such as baking cookies, observing elves crafting toys, and listening to stories by Santa next to a crackling fireplace in rustic wooden cabins.
One of the highlights of a Lapland visit is the guaranteed snowy landscape, creating a perfect setting for a white Christmas experience. Visitors can engage in various winter activities, including husky sleigh rides, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and serene forest walks. Rental services for winter clothing ensure comfort and warmth in the cold climate.
For those seeking an active experience, Kuusamo offers ample skiing opportunities with a long ski season lasting from October to May. Ruka Ski Resort features 39 slopes, a snow coaster, cross-country trails, and night skiing for a unique experience in the tranquil nighttime atmosphere.
Kuusamo’s ideal location makes it a prime spot for witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights spectacle, with peak viewing months between October and March. Visitors can join guided tours to the best vantage points or opt for a reindeer sleigh ride to chase the Northern Lights for an unforgettable evening adventure.
Accommodation options in Kuusamo range from cozy ski resorts to family-friendly hotels. Popular choices include Holiday Club Kuusamo, offering a tropical-themed indoor water park, and Ruka Peak, a boutique hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, traditional rooms, saunas, and balconies overlooking the snowy landscapes.
Several travel firms like On the Beach, Loveholidays, and TUI provide attractive flight and hotel packages for Lapland vacations, catering to various budgets. Icelolly.com also offers a platform for comparing different deals to Lapland.
