Luxury Chalets in Finnish Lapland

Lapland Holidays

In the far-flung northern reaches of Europe, Lapland offers a unique blend of snow-covered forests, pristine lakes, and the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. As you venture through this winter wonderland, you’ll encounter vibrant indigenous culture, with opportunities to meet the indigenous Sámi people and learn about their traditions.

Embrace the thrill of husky sledging through silent snow-laden forests, embark on exhilarating snowmobile safaris across vast expanses of icy terrain, or experience the tranquillity of cross-country skiing through serene landscapes. Lapland is also home to Santa Claus himself, making it the ultimate destination for families seeking holiday magic at Christmas time. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a retreat into nature’s embrace, Lapland provides a wonderful journey into the heart of the Arctic.

Browse our stunning collection of luxury homes in Lapland and take an unforgettable trip north this winter.

Why visit?

Did you know?
This year is set to be a particularly great year to view the Northern Lights, due to meteorological factors that only occur every 20 years or so. Your trip to Lapland this year means a much greater chance of catching sight of some strong auroras!

Unique Arctic Adventures
Lapland is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of thrilling activities year-round. From husky sledging and reindeer safaris to snowmobiling and ice fishing, there’s no shortage of exhilarating adventures to embark upon.

Rich Sámi Culture
Lapland is home to the indigenous Sámi people, whose vibrant culture and traditions add depth and authenticity to any visit. Travellers have the chance to learn about Sámi history, folklore, and traditional livelihoods, such as reindeer herding.

Read the Lapland Travel Guide

Why stay with us?

Discover the Oliver’s Travels way, where style and character define every handpicked rental in Finnish Lapland. Our destination experts curate unique homes in beautiful locations that are perfect for families and guaranteed to ‘wow’.

Once you book a holiday, the service doesn’t stop there. Our Concierge Service means you’ll be in good hands to arrange in-house chefs, fridge stocking, housekeeping, and so much more, to make your stay truly extraordinary.

Scandinavian Travel Group

Make your Lapland holiday extra special by booking experiences with Scandinavian Travel Group. From husky sledding to Northern Lights tours and even meeting Santa Claus…!

Our Top Regions in Lapland

When to visit Lapland

In Finnish Lapland, annual events and festivals celebrate the region’s unique culture and natural beauty. The Midnight Sun Film Festival (June) in Sodankylä draws cinephiles from around the globe to enjoy cinema under the Arctic sun.

Rovaniemi hosts the Arctic Design Week (February), showcasing innovative Nordic design and sustainability initiatives. The Sámi Easter Festival (April) in Inari highlights indigenous Sámi traditions, including yoik singing and reindeer racing. For adventure enthusiasts, the Ruka Fatbike Week (March) offers thrilling fatbike races on modified bicycles with huge thick tyres through snowy landscapes.

Additionally, the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi celebrates Christmas year-round, enchanting visitors both young and young-at-heart with its festive atmosphere and encounters with Santa himself!

Santa Claus' office in Rovaniemi's Santa Claus village
Santa Claus’ office in Rovaniemi’s Santa Claus village

Food and Drink in Lapland

Traditional cuisine north of the Arctic Circle reflects the region’s rugged environment and cultural heritage. Reindeer meat features prominently, served in various dishes like reindeer stew or smoked reindeer. Arctic fish, such as salmon and whitefish, are also staples, often prepared smoked or grilled. Berries like lingonberries and cloudberries are plentiful and used in jams, desserts, and sauces.

Local bread, typically made with rye flour, accompanies meals. Lappish cheese, like leipäjuusto (also known as squeaky cheese), is a unique delicacy often enjoyed with cloudberry jam. For drinks, the Finnish tradition of enjoying a sauna is often accompanied by an ice-cold beer or a shot of strong Koskenkorva vodka. Lingonberry and cranberry juices are popular non-alcoholic options. Make sure to indulge in these local flavours during your Lappish getaway.

Lapland squeaky cheese and cloudberries

Things to do in Lapland

Witnessing the Aurora Borealis dance across the Arctic sky is a top attraction. The best viewing months are from September to March, with locations like Rovaniemi and Inari offering prime spots.

Visit the official hometown of Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa year-round, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards with a special Arctic Circle postmark.

Experience the thrill of gliding through Lapland’s snowy landscapes on a husky sled or a reindeer-drawn sleigh and try your hand at skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice fishing amidst stunning winter scenery in resorts like Levi and Ylläs. Lapland’s pristine wilderness in national parks such as Pyhä-Luosto and Urho Kekkonen, offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and camping.

Finally, embrace the Finnish tradition of sauna. Whether in a traditional smoke sauna or a modern spa, experiencing the warmth and rejuvenation of sauna is a must-do in Lapland.

Why it’s perfect for a getaway

Great for Kids

Meeting Santa Claus in his hometown, sledding, snowball fights, and spotting reindeer are magical experiences that kids will treasure.

Great for Teens

The region’s vast wilderness provides ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure sports. Teens can enjoy adrenaline-fueled adventures like snowmobiling, husky sledding, and skiing.

Great for Couples

Enjoying a private Aurora Borealis viewing, cuddling up in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, or indulging in a traditional Lappish sauna experience are just some of the memorable experiences couples can share.

Great for Large Groups

Shared adventures like wilderness excursions, group Northern Lights tours or even Lappish cooking classes ensure that every member of the group can participate in creating lasting memories together. Finnish Lapland offers something for everyone in a group setting.

Top Tips

Lapland offers unique experiences year-round. In winter, embrace the snow with activities like husky sledding and Northern Lights hunting. In summer, enjoy endless daylight for hiking, fishing, and exploring nature. Each season brings its own charm and opportunities for adventure.
Take the time to learn about the indigenous Sámi culture and traditions that are deeply rooted in Lapland. Visit Sámi villages, attend cultural events, and savour traditional Sámi cuisine to gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of the region.

What Oliver loves

Experience the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun during the summer months. With the sun never fully setting below the horizon, visitors can enjoy endless daylight, allowing for round-the-clock exploration and outdoor activities.

Towns and Villages in Lapland

The towns and villages of Lapland offer a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities amidst stunning natural landscapes. From the quaint streets of Kittilä to the remote beauty of Kilpisjärvi, each settlement provides a gateway to the Arctic wilderness. Whether it’s exploring Sámi culture in Karigasniemi, embarking on outdoor adventures in Pyhä, or indulging in local delicacies in Sodankylä, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage and pristine wilderness of Finnish Lapland in any town or village they choose to explore.

Oliver's Hidden Gem

The Korouoma Nature Reserve is a breathtaking canyon carved by ice ages, offering dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. Perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and photography, it’s a serene escape where visitors can marvel at the raw beauty of Lapland’s untouched wilderness.

Rovaniemi

Known as the capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is famous for its Santa Claus Village, offering year-round Christmas cheer. It’s a hub for winter activities, with opportunities for Northern Lights tours, husky safaris, and exploring the Arctic wilderness.

Levi

A popular ski resort town offering excellent slopes, Levi is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy husky safaris, reindeer sleigh rides, and vibrant après-ski entertainment.

Inari

Nestled amidst breathtaking wilderness, Inari is the cultural heart of Sámi Lapland. Visitors can explore Sámi museums, enjoy traditional Sámi cuisine, and partake in activities like reindeer sledding and Northern Lights tours among stunning natural landscapes.

Top Tip

One unusual method of travel in Lapland is by dog sled. Experienced mushers lead teams of huskies or other sled dogs through the snowy wilderness, providing an exhilarating and authentic Arctic experience. Visitors can embark on day trips or multi-day expeditions, immersing themselves in the beauty of Lapland’s winter landscapes while gliding silently through the snow.

Lapland travel: Getting there and around

Flights depart from major UK airports such as London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester Airport (MAN), or Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) or Kittilä Airport (KTT) on Finnair, Norwegian, and British Airways. Direct flights to Lapland may be available during the winter season and take 3-4 hours.

By Car

Ideal for flexibility and exploring remote areas, car rentals are available in major towns. Well-maintained roads connect most towns and attractions, although winter driving conditions can be challenging.

By Public Transport

Buses operated by Matkahuolto and other companies connect towns and villages. Trains run between major cities like Rovaniemi and Kemijärvi. However, services may be limited, especially in remote areas.

By Taxi

Taxis are available in towns and can be hired for short trips or longer journeys between destinations. However, they can be expensive, particularly for long distances.

By Bike

Cycling is a popular way to explore Lapland’s scenic routes, especially in summer. Bike rentals are available in some towns, offering the opportunity to pedal through forests, along rivers, and around lakes.

By Foot

With extensive networks of hiking trails, including the iconic Finnish “Everyman’s Rights” allowing access to nature, exploring Lapland on foot is a rewarding experience. From short nature walks to multi-day treks, there’s a trail for every level of hiker to enjoy the region’s pristine wilderness.

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