You’re sure to create memories that’ll last a lifetime on a pre-Christmas family trip to Lapland in Finland, as our writer discovered on a recent holiday with TUI
We were on a once-in-a-lifetime holiday to Lapland in Finland, and hearing ‘figgy pudding’ and ‘toffee’ being called out, you’d be forgiven for assuming they were part of the lavish buffet at our hotel. But no, these were the names of the entertaining and knowledgeable ‘elves’ who were making our magical Christmas trip come alive.
Where to stay in Lapland
Our accommodation, the 4T Lapland Hotel Saaga, was a picturesque 40-minute drive from Kittilä airport, during which our elf pointed out places of interest, including the runway that Santa uses for take off and landing on Christmas Eve.
The hotel’s location, nestled in the heart of the Yllasjarvi ski area, was the ideal base for everything this Arctic wonderland has to offer. The decor is a blend of cosiness and contemporary Scandi design, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the ever-changing sky, and a swimming and spa area comparable to any you would find in a luxury French alpine resort but also perfectly equipped for children. Our room had the added perk of watching skiers navigate the slopes from the comfort of our own beds.
It’s only a 20-minute drive to reach all our planned winter activities, and with festive fairytales and quizzes from Figgy Pudding along the way, there wasn’t a single cry of ‘Are we there yet?’ reports OK!.
‘I went to Mauritius assuming it would be a relaxing ‘fly-and-flop’ holiday but I was wrong’
‘I discovered the perfect cosy Christmas holiday destination under three hours away’
What to do in Lapland
Meet Father Christmas
Of course, the highlight of our trip was meeting the main man himself. We embarked on our journey to find Santa just as dawn was breaking, with the pink sky adding an extra touch of magic to the experience.
Upon reaching the Snow Village, we hopped onto a sleigh and made our way through a forest adorned with fairy lights to Santa’s cosy cottage. The time we spent with Santa is a cherished memory that will stay with us forever. As we were leaving, he expressed his hope that we would get to see the Northern Lights, or as he referred to them, his ‘Super Santa Lights’.
The Snow Village was buzzing with excitement, offering taster sessions for all the main excursions, including reindeer sightings, husky rides, and snowmobiling. There’s also an Ice Village bar for those in need of a hot toddy or hot chocolate.
Say hello to huskies
Another highlight was our visit to the husky farm, where we got to cuddle six-month-old Siberian puppies named after characters from Disney’s Frozen. The puppies were as playful and cute as you’d expect, eagerly vying for our attention – all except for one named Sven, who sat proudly in the corner of the kennel. “He’s a stand-out wheel dog,” the musher informed us. “He will be the muscle of the pack and will hold the heaviest part of the sleigh” – near the wheels, hence the name. The pack leaders, who are usually females, are the most experienced and intelligent, she shared with a warm wink.
Huskies are born to run and they absolutely love it. The love, respect and well-being of the dogs here is paramount and it’s evident. For the staff here, this isn’t just a job, it’s a lifestyle. Every detail is considered, even down to the dog leader who collects the huskies’ shed hair after grooming them, intertwines it with wool and knits it into her jumper and gloves.
Take a reindeer sleigh ride
A trip to Lapland wouldn’t be complete without a traditional reindeer sleigh ride. With more reindeer than people in this region, you’re highly likely to spot one during your journey.
Reindeer sleigh rides take you across the expansive, Narnia-like landscape and over frozen lakes. It may not be the quickest mode of transport, but it’s suitable for all ages. One child in our group found the experience so soothing that she fell asleep to the sound of crunching snow and jingling sleigh bells.
You’ll also have the opportunity to feed these majestic creatures by hand; their favourite snack is lichen, a type of moss. If you get close enough, you can admire their impressive antlers which can grow up to 2cm in a day. Inside a cosy log cabin, you can learn more fascinating reindeer facts while sipping on hot berry juice.
TUI provided a comprehensive service for our entire trip, which included flights, transfers, accommodation and planned activities. Additional extras can also be arranged, including doorstep skiing and lift-assisted sledding for thrill seekers.
Our time in Lapland was truly magical, and regardless of your age, I can assure you that you’ll find plenty of Christmas spirit – and if you’re lucky, Santa’s Super Lights too.
How much does it cost to go to Lapland?
TUI offers a four-night holiday to Ylläs, Lapland staying at the 4T Lapland Hotel Saaga on a bed and breakfast basis from £1,027 per person. Price is based on two adults and two children sharing a twin room with flights departing from London Gatwick on 3 December 2025 with 20kg hold luggage per adult and transfers. To find out more about this holiday or to book go to TUI, visit your local TUI holiday store or download our app.
All prices quoted are correct to the particular product package at the time of TUI issuing the price package/packages to the publication. Price was quoted on 13/12/2024. Prices provided are subject to change and have limited availability. Terms and conditions apply.
For more options for holiday to Lapland, check out Expedia’s latest deals. Meanwhile if you like the idea of nabbing a holiday for £99pp, Wowcher’s Mystery Holidays are back – the only catch is that you won’t know where you’re going until nearer the date.
