Lapland's Enchantment: A Family Journey to Rovaniemi

In the heart of Lapland, where winter's breath whispers tales of wonder, our family embarked on an unforgettable journey to Rovaniemi. With our kids soon reaching an age where the magic of Santa takes on new dimensions, we seized the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the enchantment of Christmas in this northern realm.

Arriving in Rovaniemi - Gateway to the North Pole

As our plane touched down in Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, anticipation filled the air. Our family of four was ready to explore the icy Arctic wonders and create memories to last a lifetime. We settled into the heart of Rovaniemi, opting to stay in the town centre for easy access to the Arctic delights that awaited us.

Santa's Village and the Quest for Christmas Magic

Our days in Rovaniemi were filled with enchanting day trips to Santa Park and Santa's Village. The joy of experiencing the winter wonderland, meeting Santa Claus, attending Elf School, and crafting gingerbread was truly special. Amidst the snowy landscapes, we embarked on a thrilling Husky ride, the sound of paws dancing on the snow adding to the winter symphony. Consider investing in a face scarf to shield the icy wind on your cheeks!

Culinary Delights - A Feast for the Senses

Rovaniemi's culinary scene captivated our taste buds, with standout experiences at Rakas Restaurant & Bar. Nestled in the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, this gastronomic gem charmed us with a unique ambiance and a menu that celebrated local ingredients with a modern twist. Seated by the terrace with clear views of snow and forest, each bite was a revelation of extraordinary and divine flavours.

Dining at Gustav, the Wanderer, infused a comforting warmth into our culinary adventure. Settling into a cosy booth, the room's ambiance enveloped us with a distinct sense of hygge. Gustav, possessing the spirit of a gentle grandfather and wanderer, has garnered fame for his tales and a chest full of recipes from his travels, making the dining experience a not-to-be-missed occasion. Our enjoyment was heightened by savouring the finest hot chocolate, relishing delightful cheeses and artisanal sourdough bread, and indulging in a memorable veal main course.

Santa Village Tips - Beyond the Magic

While the magic of Santa's Village was undeniable, practical notes for future visitors included the reminder that taxi fares between Rovaniemi, and the Santa village do add up. Yet, the expenses were a small price to pay for the joy and wonder that awaited us.

Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge

While exploring Rovaniemi, we ventured to the iconic Lumberjack Bridge, also known as the 'Lumberjack’s Candle Bridge,' constructed in 1989. This architectural landmark serves as a harmonious link between the town buildings, the gently sloping Ounasvaara Hill, and the expansive vistas of the Kemijoki River. It was however very brief, with temperatures reaching - 23°C that day before heading back indoors.

A Lapland Farewell

As we bid farewell to Lapland, the snow-covered landscapes and the echoes of Christmas magic lingered in our hearts. The Husky ride, crafting snow angels, the Elf School laughter, and the delightful tastes from Rakas Restaurant painted a canvas of memories that will forever define our Lapland escapade. Until the next winter adventure, Lapland's enchantment will continue to call us back to the realm where dreams are wrapped in snowflakes and Santa's magic lives on.