Saariselka Holidays

from £ 716 pp

Whether you're trying to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights or saying hello to Mr Clause, holidays to Saariselka are filled with magic.

Arctic adventure

Wrapped in Lapland's Urho Kekkonen National Park, Saariselka's a winter wonderland. It sits on top of the world, some 250 kilometres above the Arctic Circle, with wild forests and ice-covered lakes as neighbours. Entertainment here's distinctly wintry – think snowy sports, cosy bars and visits from a certain red-suited celeb.

Festive fun

A small village with a big claim to fame, Saariselka's where Father Christmas lives. Head to the snow-dusted forest of Santa's Creek to find his cosy log cabin. Populated by cheery elves and real reindeer, this festive spot's sure to leave you feeling merry and bright.

Enchanting night skies

If you're holidaying between December and March, cross your fingers for a sighting of the Northern Lights. Saariselka's high latitude means it's one of the best places in the world to see Mother Nature's technicolour spectacle. As long as skies are clear, the dancing lights usually appear between 8pm and 11pm.

Winter playground

Pop on your ski boots and make the most of the snowscape. The area has 10 kilometres of downhill runs and a whopping 220 kilometres of cross-country trails – more than enough to fill an afternoon. Boarders can let loose in Finland's biggest snowboard park or try out some traditional snow-shoe trekking.

At a glance

Pay a visit to Father Christmas at Santa's Creek
Ski over hundreds of kilometres of trails and slopes
Head off in search of the mystical Northern Lights

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Arrive in Saariselkä

After landing at Ivalo Airport, you’ll be given thermal clothing and all the information needed for your Lapland experience. Then, it's off to your Saariselkä hotel. You can spend the rest of the day settling in and getting to know the town.
Free Day in Saariselkä

You can try a taster session of snowmobiling and husky or reindeer sleigh rides today. Afterwards, your elf guide will show you around some of the nearby buildings. There’s plenty of free time, too, so you can book yourself on to an excursion and experience your favourite taster from earlier.
Santa's Creek

It’s time to meet the big man in red. As you make your way down to Santa’s Creek through the woods, you’ll bump into reindeers and elves, before sitting down with Father Christmas himself. Come evening, you can tuck into a gala buffet accompanied by festive fireworks.
Last day in Saariselkä

Those of you on 4-night trips will enjoy Day 3’s activities today. On Day 3, you’ll have free time to play in the snow, or book onto an excursion.