Lapland - the real home of Santa!

✨ Lapland Holidays: Our Magical Family Trip to Santa’s Home in Saariselkä

If you’re dreaming of a Lapland holiday filled with magic, snow and unforgettable family moments, nothing compares to visiting Santa’s real home in the Arctic Circle. As a child, Santa represents everything magical about Christmas — and as an adult, those memories never truly fade. Standing in his workshop in Lapland brought every childhood vision rushing back. It’s impossible to think of anything other than the fact you are right there… with the real Santa… and it is simply incredible.

❄️ Why Choose Saariselkä for Your Lapland Holiday?

High above the Arctic Circle, Saariselkä is one of Lapland’s most enchanting resorts. The snow glistens like diamonds, the sky glows pink, and the forests look like they’ve been painted for a Christmas storybook. It’s peaceful, authentic and wonderfully non‑touristy — perfect for families wanting a genuine Lapland experience.

After a 3.5‑hour flight and a short 30‑minute transfer from Ivalo, we arrived in Saariselkä ready to begin our adventure. I travelled with my mum, my brother and my 10‑year‑old niece, Gemma, who lives in Australia and had never seen snow before. Watching her step off the plane and immediately start throwing snowballs was a moment I’ll never forget.

We stayed at the Reikonlinna Hotel, a cosy 4‑star property close to the small selection of local shops. Accommodation in Lapland is simple but comfortable — and honestly, when you’re somewhere this magical, you want to be outside exploring, not indoors.

🌌 Snowmobiling Under the Northern Lights

To kick off our Lapland holiday, we pre‑booked a Northern Lights snowmobile safari. Riding through the forest under a sky full of stars was surreal. Every mound of snow looked like a reindeer or husky in my imagination. We stopped by a fire to enjoy warm berry juice and cookies while our guides shared the traditional story behind the Northern Lights. It’s a tale you need to hear in person.

🎄 A Full Day Inside the Arctic Circle Centre

Our main day was spent inside an exclusive Santa’s Lapland activity park, and it truly felt like stepping into another world. Dressed in thermals, boots, hats and gloves (all provided), we boarded the coach for a short journey to a magical forest filled with festive experiences.

Elf Shows & Snow Fun

We began inside an igloo with an interactive elf show — full of mischief, laughter and Christmas magic. Then came tobogganing, snow play and endless fun for Gemma, who couldn’t get enough of it.

Reindeer Rides

Meeting Rudolph was a highlight. We enjoyed a peaceful reindeer sleigh ride through the forest, wrapped up warm and taking in the scenery. Just be prepared — the reindeer behind you might give you a cheeky lick in the ear!

Husky Sledding

Another unforgettable moment was husky sledging. Adults learn to drive the sledge while the children play games, and then you’re off — racing through the forest behind a team of excited huskies. They’re beautifully cared for, and at the end you can meet them, cuddle them and take selfies.

🎅 The Ultimate Lapland Experience: Meeting Santa

The highlight for every child (and most adults) is the private meeting with Santa. You’re whisked through the forest on a snowmobile‑pulled sledge, passing cheeky elves along the way, until you reach a hidden cabin deep in the woods. What’s inside? You’ll have to visit to find out — but the magic is real.

Throughout the day, cosy Kota huts offer warm berry juice, pancakes, cookies and even ice cream. A hearty lunch is included too, giving you plenty of time to warm up between activities.

🌈 Northern Lights Finale

As we boarded the coach back to the hotel, the Northern Lights appeared again — dancing across the sky as if they’d come out just for us. It was the perfect ending to the most magical day.

❤️ Why a Lapland Holiday Is Worth Every Moment

For our family, this trip was everything.

Gemma had the best day of her life.

My mum, who has mobility challenges, was looked after beautifully and managed every activity.

My brother loved giving his daughter the most unforgettable Christmas gift.

And me? I loved making it happen — watching their faces light up and feeling that childhood magic return.

A Lapland holiday isn’t just a trip. It’s a memory you carry forever.

Thinking of booking Lapland?

I specialise in Lapland holidays, Santa experiences, and Northern Lights adventures. If you’d like help planning your magical family getaway, I’d love to create the perfect itinerary for you.

Just tell me when you’re ready to start planning your own Lapland story. juliefranklin@designertravel.co.uk 07485735480