Discover the Magic of a Luxury Lapland Holiday
Few destinations capture the magic of winter quite like Finnish Lapland. With vast snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights, it offers an extraordinary setting for a family holiday. From meeting reindeer and riding husky sleds to staying in glass-roofed accommodation beneath the Arctic sky, there is plenty to make a winter visit truly memorable.
For families seeking something beyond the traditional winter break, Lapland is home to a collection of distinctive resorts combining Arctic adventure with comfort, exceptional accommodation and memorable dining. Here are five places offering a wonderful introduction to the region.
Lumo Resort: A Luxurious Arctic Escape
Set above a spectacular landscape of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes, Lumo Resort offers an unforgettable Arctic escape. Its glass-walled aurora rooms provide wonderful views of the Northern Lights, creating an opportunity to experience one of nature’s most remarkable displays from the comfort of your accommodation.
Families can enjoy a variety of winter activities, including reindeer encounters, dog sledding, snowmobiling and visits to Santa’s cottage. The resort also brings a sense of luxury to the wilderness, with Scandi-inspired interiors, private hot tubs and Lapland-inspired cuisine served at The Bear restaurant.
For families requiring additional space, the Panoramic Suite sleeps four and features two bedrooms alongside a fire-warmed living area. Prices start from approximately £980 per person for a two-night all-inclusive stay.
Apukka Resort: Glass Igloos and Northern Lights
Surrounded by snowy woodland and overlooking Lake Olkkajärvi, Apukka Resort offers a magical setting just outside Rovaniemi. Its glass igloos and aurora cabins provide a cosy place to admire the winter skies, with family accommodation available for up to six guests.
There is plenty to keep younger visitors entertained, with dog sledding, family snowmobiling, reindeer sleigh rides and special visits with Santa among the experiences available. Dining is another highlight, ranging from traditional open-fire cooking in a Sámi kota to contemporary Nordic cuisine.
Combining distinctive accommodation with a wide choice of Arctic activities, Apukka offers an appealing option for families looking to experience the magic of a Finnish winter. Prices start from approximately £1,580 per room for a two-night stay.
Arctic SnowHotel: An Extraordinary Night on Ice
For something truly out of the ordinary, Arctic SnowHotel offers the opportunity to spend a night surrounded by beautifully sculpted snow and ice. Recreated each December, its snow suites feature intricate frozen artwork, with family suites accommodating up to six guests.
Although temperatures inside the snow accommodation remain between freezing and sub-zero conditions, thermal sleeping bags, blankets and warm drinks help guests stay comfortable throughout the night.
Those who prefer a warmer setting can choose one of the resort’s glass igloos, which offer panoramic views of the Northern Lights. Families can also enjoy ice sculpting, reindeer farm visits, snowshoeing and ice fishing before sitting down for a meal at one of the hotel’s distinctive restaurants.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort: Luxury in the Lapland Wilderness
Located deep in northern Lapland, close to Urho Kekkonen National Park, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is surrounded by vast forests and beautiful Arctic wilderness.
Accommodation ranges from traditional log cabins to the distinctive Kelo glass igloos, which sleep up to six guests. These combine the character of a wooden cabin with glass-roofed bedrooms, private saunas and fireplaces, creating a comfortable setting for watching the Northern Lights.
Families can make the most of the surrounding landscape with husky rides, reindeer experiences and aurora excursions. Younger visitors can also explore the nearby village of Saariselkä and its famous sledging run.
After a day enjoying the outdoors, guests can choose from six restaurants offering regional flavours and family-friendly dining options.
Magical Pond: A Peaceful Forest Retreat
Tucked away in a snowy forest near Ruka, Magical Pond offers a more intimate approach to a luxury Arctic holiday. Its contemporary glass igloos are designed to blend into the surrounding woodland, providing wonderful views of the winter landscape and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.
Inside, natural materials, soft fabrics and understated Scandinavian design create a welcoming atmosphere. The experience is equally appealing outside the accommodation, with husky safaris, snowmobile adventures and reindeer encounters available nearby.
For moments of relaxation, guests can enjoy a private sauna and outdoor hot tub before dining on regional cuisine at Restaurant Kataja. Prices start from approximately £350 per night, making it an appealing option for those seeking a quieter Lapland experience.
Experience the Magic of Finnish Lapland
Whether it is watching the Northern Lights from a glass igloo, experiencing the excitement of a husky safari or spending a night in a hotel made entirely from snow and ice, Finnish Lapland offers a winter holiday unlike any other.
With distinctive accommodation, beautiful Arctic surroundings and experiences for all ages, these five resorts provide plenty of inspiration for families looking to enjoy a memorable luxury escape.
Source: Condé Nast Traveller.