A Christmas experience with unique Aurora Cabin accommodation just outside Rovaniemi, the Arctic city in Lapland's heart and the official home of Santa Claus. Stay four nights at Apukka Resort, and help Santa get ready for the big festivities.
Itinerary
22 or 23 December Rovaniemi Arrival - Apukka
On arrival at Rovaniemi Airport, transfer to Apukka Resort, located about 15 minutes from Rovaniemi city centre in a peaceful area between two lakes, and the perfect spot, away from the city's lights, to look out for the fabled Northern Lights. Check in to your cosy Aurora Cabin and receive details of the timing for the winter fun activites included during your stay. Each cabin has a bed right under the the panorama glass roof, which is heated and stays clear of frost and snow at all times, as well as a private bathroom with a shower and toilet, a small fridge and complimentary wifi. The remainder of the day is at leisure - explore your surroundings, with Mother Nature at her Arctic best. Or ask Reception about purchasing tickets on the shuttle bus, which runs regularly from the resort into the town centre and also to Santa Claus Village. Buffet dinner at the hotel tonight.
Buffet dinner each night is on site at Restaurant Aitta. The restaurant serves Nordic cuisine with a modern twist and uses locally produced ingredients. At the heart of the restaurant is a huge stone fireplace, and high windows in the dining area give amazing views to the lake.
23-25 or 24-26 December Festive Fun - Husky Sledding, Aurora Hunt By Snowtrain, Reindeer Sleighing, Santa's Visit
Buffet breakfast is served each morning at Restaurant Aitta.
During Christmas, Apukka Resort transforms into a captivating winter wonderland. There is a giant tube slide on-site (free of charge) and a frozen lake at the Resort, perfect for a leisurely stroll on its thick ice surface. The spacious yard features a daily lit bonfire for relaxation.
The next three days are filled with some amazing winter fun! Details of the excursions are shown below - the timing for each of these activities will be provided to you at check-in.
Daytime Husky Sledding - 2hrs
Huskies are some of Lapland's best-loved Arctic animals and they absolutely love running on the trails across the forests. On a 7-10km safari, you are the "musher" as you take control of your own team gliding in the sled across the snow. 2 adults share each sled, with the chance to swap places as the driver along the way. Children can sit with their parents or with the guide**.
Aurora Hunt by Snowtrain - 3hrs
On this evening excursion, you sit cosily inside a heated carriage pulled by your guide's snowmobile, and head out into the wilderness. Far from artificial lights, we search for the Northern Lights in comfort, and stop at a traditional Lappish hut or kota deep in the wilderness, to enjoy hot drinks and sausages around the fire.
Reindeer-sled ride to Santa Through the Magic Forest - 2hrs
As you walk through the snow-covered forest, you'll start to see antlers in between the trees, but can you see a red nose yet? Deep in the woods, the reindeer are waiting to take you to Santa! Take a seat in a cosy reindeer drawn sleigh and travel through the Magic Forest. Elves will help you find the Secret Pathway in the snow that leads to Santa's Secret Hut - a special place filled with magic. Does Santa have a small surprise waiting for you? Children of all ages can sit with their parents or with the guide. Includes private meeting with Santa.
Festive dinners: on Christmas Eve (24th) and on Christmas Day (25th) special celebratory festive dinners with a Christmas programme are served.
26 or 27 December Apukka - Rovaniemi Departure
Breakfast then transfer to Rovaniemi Airport and end of arrangements.
2024 departures: 22 December or 23 December **SOLD OUT**
Notes:
Each Aurora Glass Igloo Cabin Standard has two single beds which can be arranged into one double bed, and one sofa bed which can accommodate 2 children (up to 14 years) or 1 adult (15 years and above). Each Aurora Cabin Standard can therefore host up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children up to 14 years.
Aurora Glass Igloo Cabin Standard 28m2 - maximum 3 adults OR 2 adults and 2 children up to 14 years
Additional Apukka Resort accommodation options, please enquire for prices:
Aurora Glass Igloo Cabin Superior Queen 29m2 - maximum 3 adults OR 2 adults and 2 children up to 14 years
Aurora Glass Igloo Cabin Superior King 29m2 - maximum 3 adults OR 2 adults and 2 children up to 14 years
Komsio Glass Igloo Suites (loft) 32m2 - maximum 3 adults OR 2 adults and 2 children up to 14 years
Kammi Glass Igloo Suites (loft) 32m2 - maximum 4 adults OR 2 adults and 2 children up to 14 years
NEW Aurora Family Glass Igloo Cabin (2 bedroom) 41m2 - maximum 4 adults and 2 children up to 14 years OR 2 adults and 4 children up to 14 years
Lakeview Family Suites (2 bedroom) 40.5m2 - maximum 3 adults and 3 children up to 14 years OR 2 adults and 4 children up to 14 years
Children under 4 years of age can experience difficulties being outdoors in the cold for too long so it is not recommended that they join the included husky safari.
