What is the best age to go to Lapland?
Lapland is a bit like Disney and Haribo – “kids and grown-ups love it so”! Yes you can visit
Santa but this is just a small part of what makes Lapland so magical. If you want to go whilst your kids still believe then of course you need to take them whilst they do, but the magic of Lapland remains for non-believers! There are so many other wonderful activities to be enjoyed by the whole family. Reindeer sleigh rides, husky-sledding, snowmobile safari, sledding, skiing, fatbiking, snowman building to name a few. These activities combined with cozy cabins and fireside dinners make for the perfect trip that combines both relaxation and adventure for the whole family.
Many don’t think of Lapland for couples breaks but what could be more romantic than being in your glass-roof cabin watching the Northern Lights overhead? Pair this with gorgeous food, Finnish sauna and all the activities and you’ve got the perfect mini-moon, anniversary trip or birthday celebration.
Let’s not forget that grandparents can come along too. Maybe not for the couple’s break (as they might be needed at home to mind the kids!), but for your family Santa trip bring them along so they can share in the magic and watch the surprise and delight on their grandkids faces. Stay in a large cabin that accommodates the whole family so that they can be part of everything.
So really what I’m saying is there is not a “best age” to visit Lapland as Lapland can be
enjoyed by all ages. Let’s be realistic though, it’s probably not a good idea to take babies or toddlers to Lapland. It’s absolutely freezing (minus 30 degrees Celsius for example) so it’s a good idea to wait for kids to be old enough to reliably wear all the necessary thermal clothing including gloves, hats, boots. Dressing appropriately for the weather is key to being able to enjoy the activities and most companies/hotels provide thermal suits and boots. I would say age 5/6/7/8 is the sweet spot. At these ages they should also be able to remember the trip.
Lots of families love it so much that they want to go back again, especially those who went on a day trip the first time (yes that’s right, fly there and back on the same day). I’ll be taking my kids when they are age 7 and 4 (nearly 5) or age 8 and 5 (nearly 6) – which will depend on whether my eldest is showing any signs of wavering belief!
How many days to spend in Lapland?
This is really up to personal preference and how much you want to spend on the trip. Some people choose to go on a day trip so flying out early in the morning and back later that evening. You can still have a go at most activities and of course see Santa, but each activity usually only lasts a short duration. If you want to stay overnight, you can do short breaks for 2/3/4 nights or longer breaks for a week or more. It depends how much you want to pack in whilst you are there. Those who want to ski for example often choose to go for a bit longer.
Where should we stay in Lapland?
There is so much choice when it comes to Lapland resorts and accommodations. Some are very commercialized, and others are more authentic and immersive. It depends on what your taste is and whether you think you’d prefer to be in remote wilderness or right in the middle of the action near to shops, bars and restaurants. Some resorts are better for skiing.
Some are better for Northern Lights viewing due to less light pollution. You can do all types of boards from self-catering to full board and even a private chef. You can choose to stay in a log cabin, glass igloo, apartment, hotel, lodge. We help arrange trips to Levi, Yllas, Saariselka, Karesuando, Kilpisjarvi, Jeris, Luosto, Pyha, Suomo, Ruka, Enontekio, Pajala, Inari, Nellim, Rovaniemi, Muonio as well as other locations.
How do you get to Lapland?
Some of the well-known Lapland companies charter direct flights to Lapland. Otherwise you have to rely on scheduled flights and depending on where you are based in the UK and which resort in Lapland you want to go to these flights can be indirect. We can arrange for you to be picked up at the airport and taken to your accommodation.
Will I see the Northern Lights in Lapland?
A night spent under the Northern Lights is an experience you will never forget. Glass igloos aren’t just for romantic couple breaks, families can stay in these too. Many will have alerts so you can go to sleep and be notified if the Northern Lights show! December is great for Northern Lights viewing and the further north the better. It’s possible to view the Northern Lights from September through to April but of course there is no guarantee.
Where should we stay for a luxury Lapland experience?
The standout luxury accommodation in Lapland is undoubtedly Octola Private Wilderness. It is really special. If you want a truly bespoke not off-the-shelf experience, we can make it happen for you. Elf private jet escort? No problem!
Other high-end Lapland accommodations we book for clients include the Artic Treehouse Hotel, Levin Iglut, Javri Lodge and of course Swedish Lapland’s famous Icehotel.
What should I pack for Lapland?
Layers and more layers! Merino wool is good. Most likely you will be able to rent special
thermal suits and boots. Hands and feet get cold so waterproof gloves with glove liners and thermal socks. Don’t forget a thermal hat and scarf/snood/balaclava.
When it comes to luxury Lapland holidays there is so much to consider. The choice is
overwhelming and there is pressure to get it right for your family. At Soar & Explore we talk you through all the options and advise on resorts, accommodations, flights, transfers,
activities, availability and cost saving you hours of time.
Our clients receive VIP service and support. We are passionate about the success of your holiday! To discuss your special Lapland holiday please call us on 01423 222567 or send us an email to info@soarandexplore.co.uk to explore how we can help you.
Don’t forget to get in touch early, as Lapland holidays and accommodation sell out well in advance. Booking nine-twelve months ahead is a good idea to ensure you get the flights, accommodation and experience that you want.
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