A magical stay in Lapland, the white paradise
Come along, let me take you to Finnish Lapland for a magical stay. This region of Northern Europe is a dream destination for many. Especially during the enchanting Christmas season.
I went there for 5 days/4 nights in December 2022 and I was more than won over. Rovaniemi, or rather Santa Claus Village, is located in Finnish Lapland, a 3.5-hour flight from France.
It is a city lost amidst plains of pine trees and lakes. In winter, it is almost dark all day long. The sun rises around 11:00 AM and sets at 2:00 PM. This also heightens the magic since everything is wonderfully decorated for Christmas.
Visit Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village
The airport is international. I currently know the best deals to get there affordably because it is true that Lapland has a reputation for being quite an expensive destination. Easyjet has opened direct routes from certain French cities such as Lyon or Paris (winter 2024-2025). Take advantage of it!
When you land, you are immediately immersed in the white atmosphere because everything around you is covered in snow. And the freezing cold allows this snow to remain very solid and white on absolutely everything: pine trees, buildings, poles, roads... It's like a dream where everything is white! The white paradise!
Rovaniemi city center is quite small but sufficient for a 4-day stay. You will find many bars and restaurants to dine in the evening. It is best to choose a hotel in the center to stroll around peacefully in the evening. Dress very, very warmly of course!
Dog sledding and Northern Lights
During the day, activities should be prioritized: Dog sledding and visits to the dog camp to get close to and pet the beautiful Huskies. One good thing to know: the animals are very well treated. In the same spirit, you also have the opportunity to go reindeer sledding. The reindeer is a very gentle and truly magnificent animal. There are white, brown, and bicolor ones. You will bound to fall under their charm. You are allowed to feed them at the farm with what they love: lichen.
Then head to Santa Claus Village: many souvenir shops, the opportunity to meet Santa Claus (very crowded, expect at least a 1-hour wait), meals in igloos, ice sculpture museum, ice bar to party... the setting is magical, just like in the movies. It is hard to describe; you have to see it to feel this magical atmosphere.
Then of course, go hunting for the Northern Lights by snowmobile on a 4-hour excursion.
The excursion includes a meal: wood-fired grilled sausages in a teepee in the heart of nature.
To spot these famous northern lights we are all waiting for, the sky needs to be clear, but keep your head up and eyes toward the sky because at any moment an immense streak can appear, a green, blue, purple, pink light... sometimes a mix of all these colors. The show is fabulous, I wish all of you to witness this at least once in your life.
The Finnish tradition
Tradition says you must also experience certain northern practices!
Spend 10 to 20 minutes in a hot sauna to relax muscles and stimulate blood circulation. The heat causes intense sweating, promoting the elimination of toxins and relaxation.
Step out of the sauna and immerse yourself in a frozen lake, a cold river, a cold shower, or an ice bath. Stay submerged for a few seconds to 2 minutes to avoid hypothermia. This step stimulates blood circulation, strengthens the immune system, and releases endorphins (euphoric effect).
Repeat the cycle 2 to 3 times to maximize benefits. Finish with a period of rest and sufficient hydration.
So, will you have the courage to plunge into the icy lake or throw yourself into the snow?
