Wish you were here – an Arctic TreeHouse winter break

In the latest edition of our ‘Wish you were here’ series, we venture to the northernmost regions of Finland and Sweden, more commonly known as Lapland.

Lapland is an arctic playground, perfect for an adventurous winter break, where the reindeer population outnumbers people and Santa Claus lives. The northern lights are of course a key attraction from late August until mid April with winter lasting around 200 days and the clear night sky a backdrop for this amazing natural phenomenon.  The choice of winter activities is extensive too from snowmobile safaris and dog sledding to watching reindeer from around a campfire.

Rovaniemi, the crowned capital of Lapland (and official home of Santa Claus) sits directly on the Arctic Circle.  It is an ideal destination for those looking to combine all the city has to offer with the full winter experience found in the surrounding wilderness.  This itinerary, with the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel as your base, offers a truly unforgettable Lapland holiday.

Snowmobile safari

Enjoy a thrilling snowmobile ride to a local reindeer farm and receive your very own International Reindeer Driving Licence.  Take part in a traditional “Crossing of the Arctic Circle” ceremony in a traditional Lappish tepee and receive a certificate to mark your crossing.

Snowshoe fun

Head into the Lappish wilderness in the hills surrounding Rovaniemi.  Learn how to walk with Arctic shoes through beautiful snow covered forests enjoying hot drinks along the way.

Thrill of speed

You’ll know you’re approaching the local farm when you hear the friendly barks of the huskies. As soon as you set off however, the dogs will quieten down and do their work.  Enjoy the surrounding nature as you drive the sledge, stopping for a break in the wilderness.  Take lots of pictures!

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

These exhilarating activities are complimented by your accommodation for the duration of your stay, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel.  The hotel’s architecturally fascinating individual suites are cleverly designed in wooden cubes, with one side completely made of glass.  The views of the surrounding landscape and the northern skies are mesmerising. These uber cool pod suites are built stilts set into the hillside above the hotel’s reception and restaurant.  Why not upgrade to one of the stunning Arctic GlassHouses with two bedrooms, to allow for more travel companions, as well as a fireplace and private sauna.  The ArcticScene Suites are even more fabulous and are ideal for groups of up to 5 people; expect an amazing wellness area, scenery sauna and floor to ceiling windows.  Delicious Lappish cuisine is served in the panoramic restaurant ensuring you don’t lose a moment away from the incredible view.

This itinerary was originally booked through one of our specialist travel partners, Regent Holidays.  For further information on travel to Lapland or other escapes to Northern Europe, do get in touch.