Discover...
thebeacon travel guide views Lapland through
the eyes of a child
...by Julie Gundry, Bespoke Vacations
How often can we truly say that something is pure magical or that something has touched our hearts and left a lifetime impression? What could possibly be better than a visit to THE Father Christmas? The excitement of such a prospect is utterly indescribable whether you are a ‘little person’ or the little person’s parents or grandparents!
From the moment you arrive in this magical land you will be completely spellbound by a landscape only to be otherwise found in fairy tales and legends. Whilst we frantically work to recreate a tiny fraction of Lapland in our own home over the yuletide weeks, the real thing is absolutely mind-blowing!
Each year, thousands of children make the journey north of the Arctic Circle to seek the great man himself, usually to be found sat beside a roaring fire in a log cabin, surrounded by elves and anticipating the patter of children’s feet. Each visitor, leaving the cold exterior for a moment, carefully enters the cosy abode, wide-eyed in awe and wonder, only to happily whisper their Christmas wishes into the awaiting ear.
After a 4-hour flight, loaded with eager anticipation from Heathrow to Kittila, this once-in-a-lifetime experience, packed full of Winter Wonderland activities and treats, suitable for most ages, awaits. It really is an uplifting break from reality, anyone who sets foot on the crisp, snow covered land cannot fail to spend the next few days wearing a grin as wide as the Cheshire Cat’s!
Depending on the duration of your stay, you will experience husky and reindeer rides, skidoo trips across frozen lakes, ice-fishing, take part in cross-country or downhill skiing, visit igloos, take in the traditional costume and cuisine, enjoy Christmas celebrations and entertainment, and of course meet the man himself!
Another truly wondrous experience is to see the Aurora Borealis (the northern lights). Nothing can describe the shimmering colours, weaving through the night sky, a unique spectacular; something that has to be witnessed in order to fully appreciate the full natural beauty.
Temperatures can drop below 30 degrees, so whilst clothing is provided on certain trips, good warm, layered and thermal winter clothing is essential.
Perfect for romantic couples, tempted by the lure of Lapland, or for quiet family retreats, luxury heated glass igloos are now available at a cost of £295-£680 (accomodation only) per day, perfect for watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your own bed! A wonderfully surreal experience! Further accomodation is available in a wide range of chalets, luxury log cabins, apartments and hotels, typically costing in the region of £435 per person
for a 1-day visit, to £1500 per person for a longer stay including a more comprehensive array of activities. Early booking is advised around the Christmas period.
E: bespokelifestyle@sky.com
T: 07971 013008
www.bespokelifestyle.org.uk
