The Magic of Lapland

Our adventure began with a festive flight from Leeds Bradford to Ivalo, where the magic started before we’d even landed. From elf games and sing-alongs on board to crossing the Arctic Circle with Walking in the Air playing, it felt like stepping straight into a Christmas storybook.

On arrival, we were welcomed by Santa’s Lapland reps (and a few mischievous elves) before travelling through snowy landscapes to Santa’s Hotel Tunturi — a peaceful winter wonderland where reindeer outnumber people, and the air feels wonderfully still. After collecting our thermal suits, the rest of the day was spent sledging, exploring woodland trails, toasting marshmallows by open fire,s and simply enjoying the freedom to slow down. The day ended perfectly with a sauna and more sledging under the night sky.

Day two was pure magic. With only the husky ride timed, the rest of the day was ours to enjoy at our own pace. Reindeer rides, sleigh rides, a magical igloo and endless winter activities filled the day, from tobogganing and kids sledging to ice hockey and mini skidoos. Regular warm-up stops with hot berry juice, pancakes and cosy fires made the experience comfortable and enjoyable, even in the Arctic cold.

The highlight, without question, was the search for Santa. Gliding through the snowy forest by sleigh, discovering elves and finally knocking on the door of a hidden log cabin felt truly magical. When Santa somehow already had the letters my boys had written and left behind, 😉 the look on their faces was something I’ll never forget.

This trip turned out to be about so much more than snow, reindeer and Santa. It was about uninterrupted family time and watching a spark of belief return, even briefly, at that in-between age when the magic can start to fade. Those moments are the memories we’ll treasure forever.

If Lapland has ever been on your wish list, I’d love to help make it just as special for your family