A newly established route from the UK to Lapland offers families the chance to visit Father Christmas in his homeland this winter. AirBaltic, a Latvian airline, is set to launch flights from December, with bookings already open on its website. The airline will introduce five new routes to Kuusamo in Finnish Lapland from various European airports, including services from London-Gatwick and Manchester.
Finnish Lapland not only serves as Santa’s residence but is also a popular ski and winter sports destination, promising a plethora of snowy activities for adults. Flights from London-Gatwick start on December 13, operating twice a week, while flights from Manchester commence on December 10 and continue with once-a-week departures until March.
Kuusamo’s main attraction is Pohjolan Pirtti, located approximately 30 minutes from the airport. This site features Santa’s charming cottage, offering an immersive Lapland experience. Visitors can enjoy activities such as baking cookies, witnessing elves craft toys, and listening to Santa’s stories by a crackling fireplace in rustic wooden cabins.
A highlight of a Lapland visit is the opportunity to experience a quintessential white Christmas with guaranteed snow. Adventurers can engage in various winter pursuits like husky sleigh rides, snowshoeing, ice fishing, or serene forest walks. Rental shops provide winter gear such as overalls, boots, and mittens to ensure warmth in the chilly climate.
For enthusiasts seeking an active holiday, Kuusamo provides ample skiing opportunities, boasting a long ski season from October to May. Ruka Ski Resort offers 39 slopes, a snow coaster, cross-country trails, and night skiing for those seeking a tranquil ambiance under the starlit sky.
Another captivating spectacle in Kuusamo is the Northern Lights, visible between October and March. Travelers can embark on nighttime tours to witness this natural phenomenon from prime viewpoints or opt for a thrilling reindeer sleigh ride to chase the dancing lights across the sky.
Kuusamo offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from cozy ski resorts to family-friendly hotels. Holiday Club Kuusamo appeals to families with its tropical-themed indoor water park and adjacent Angry Birds Activity Park. Additionally, Ruka Peak, a boutique hotel, provides ski-in/ski-out access, traditional wood-paneled rooms, saunas, and balconies offering splendid views of the snowy landscapes.
For more Lapland travel deals, several companies offer enticing flight and hotel packages tailored for budget-conscious travelers. On the Beach, Loveholidays, TUI, and Icelolly.com feature dedicated sections highlighting affordable Lapland options, allowing visitors to compare and select suitable deals for a memorable holiday experience.