Picture this: a traditional log cabin in the heart of Finnish Lapland surrounded by the frozen rapids of River Raudanjoki and a lush shoreline forest. Just a 15-minute drive from Rovaniemi International Airport, this is perfect for adventure seeking families.
Each cabin comes with a kitchen, sauna, bathroom, a lovely riverside terrace and a cosy fireplace. The open plan living space provides a large communal area where the family can relax, enjoy eating and hanging out together.
The Arctic Riverside Retreat is situated in the Arctic Circle Hiking Area – a network of diverse trails meandering through snow-sprinkled forests and glistening lakes. The list of activities available here is endless, and each room is equipped with your very own snowshoes for exploring.
Spend time exploring magical Santa Claus village in nearby Rovaniemi to meet the man himself, go in search of the Northern Lights on a snowshoe hike through the wintry forest trails, hold tight for an exhilarating reindeer sleigh or snowmobile ride through the Arctic wilderness or learn the art of ice-fishing in frozen rivers and lakes. With a choice of two restaurants you’ll be spoilt for choice. Relax by an open fire at the Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge restaurant or if you prefer something a little different, try the Jaarankota wooden tepee hut located on the Raudanjoku River Island.
Do as the Finns do and relax in the large riverside smoke sauna and if you’re brave enough, embrace the ritual of jumping in the snow. Snack on grilled sausages sauna side and smother yourself in organic body scrub for a special treat. For Finnish people the sauna is a place to relax with friends and family as well as a place for physical and mental relaxation.
Our partners at Regent Holidays have been organising trips to Iceland & the Arctic for more than 40 years, and have created a 4-day itinerary that's hard to beat.
ITINERARY
Day 1 - FLY TO ROVANIEMI Fly to Rovaniemi and meet your local guide. Transfer to a riverside house for three nights. After dark follow the natural light provided by the snow reflection, stars and moon on an enchanting snowshoe hike in search of the Northern Lights. Cross a walking bridge to the river island and admire frozen rapids below. Relax in the wintry atmosphere before heading back to the Arctic Wilderness Lodge for a heart-warming dinner.
Day 2 - SNOWMOBILE, REINDEER & HUSKY SAFARI Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before heading out for a day of snow filled fun. Weave between the forest trees on a snowmobile, steer your very own sleigh pulled by reindeer, experience an exhilarating husky safari through the Arctic wilderness before clicking into tandem skis and making the most of the snowy sliding hills. Spend time exploring Santa Claus Village, a great chance to pick up some Finnish souvenirs and meet the man himself.
Day 3 - FINNISH SAUNA Spend the day at leisure. Perhaps explore the Arctic Circle hiking area or learn the art of ice fishing in the frozen rivers, rapids, lakes and ponds just a short drive away. In the evening relax at the riverside sauna.
Day 4 - ROVANIEMI TO UK Transfer to Rovaniemi airport for the return flight to the UK via Helsinki.
PRICES
Prices from £1279 per person, including:
Flights in economy class to Rovaniemi with Finnair via Helsinki from London Heathrow
Accommodation as stated with breakfast
Meals as specified
Return airport transfers from Rovaniemi airport to the hotel
Excursions as stated in the itinerary