Santa Breaks in Ylläs

Experience a truly magical Santa Break in Lapland this Christmas with a visit to Santa’s Hideaway included in your holiday. Nestled among the snow-covered forests of Ylläs - this intimate, enchanting location is perfect for a festive family adventure. Join Santa’s friendly elves in a magical workshop, where you can bake delicious gingerbread or get creative with some arts and crafts. Enjoy thrilling snow games, from tobogganing to exciting kick sled rides for the little ones. The highlight of your day? A snowmobile-drawn sleigh ride through the glistening forest, following the twinkling lights to meet Santa in his cosy log cabin. Share a heartwarming private family moment with Santa, and take home a special gift for the children!

Duration: 2 hours (at activity)

The evening begins with a tasty Finnish Christmas buffet, bursting with traditional dishes and seasonal favourites - from hearty warm meals to sweet festive treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The festivities continue with plenty of music, games, and dancing - you might even catch a cheeky appearance from one of Santa’s playful elves. Grown-ups can join the fun or simply relax and soak up the magical atmosphere.

Dress up in your favourite Christmas jumpers, sparkles and festive outfits, and get ready for a night full of fun, laughter and holiday cheer.

It’s the perfect way to make magical memories and get into the Christmas spirit during your Santa Breaks holiday!

Snowmobiles are one of the most exciting ways to explore Finland in winter, and you’ll have the chance to glide through vast, snow-covered forests and glistening fells on this magical snowmobile safari. Before setting off, you’ll receive full instruction on how to drive your snowmobile, ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the pristine Arctic landscape.

Children will travel safely in a sleigh pulled behind the guide, while adults can choose to share a snowmobile or drive solo. Along the way, you’ll stop at a traditional Finnish kota — a cosy wooden hut — to warm up with hot berry juice, surrounded by the sparkle of the snowy forest. Then it’s back on your snowmobiles to continue the festive journey through Lapland’s enchanting winter wonderland.

Duration: 2-2.5 hours (from Äkäslompolo)

• All drivers must be 18 years+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
• Children must be aged 11 years or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile; they must be able to touch the footrest when sitting on the snowmobile. Children under this height or aged 4-10 years will be towed in a sled or pod behind the guide. Infants (aged 0-3 years) can't take part in this excursion.
• Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single-driving snowmobile if a shared snowmobile is not available.

Set off on a truly special festive adventure as you hunt for the magical Northern Lights on a thrilling snowmobile safari beneath the starry Arctic sky. On dark, clear nights, you may be lucky enough to witness this breathtaking natural spectacle dancing across the heavens — a true Christmas gift from nature!

Your guide will lead you through the snowy forests and sparkling fells of Ylläs to the best viewing spots. Along the way, you’ll stop to warm up beside an open fire with a hot drink, while your guide shares ancient tales and legends of the Northern Lights, adding a touch of Christmas magic to this unforgettable Arctic experience.

Duration: 2-2.5 hours (from Äkäslompolo)

• All drivers must be 18 years+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
• Children must be aged 11 years or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile; they must be able to touch the footrest when sitting on the snowmobile.
• It is not possible for children under 11 years to take part in this excursion. 
• Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single driving snowmobile if a sharing snowmobile is not available.

Visit a traditional reindeer farm, where you’ll meet these gentle creatures and discover their special place in Lapland’s festive traditions.

Snuggle up under warm blankets as you glide through the snowy forest in a reindeer-pulled sleigh, surrounded by sparkling trees and the peaceful Arctic landscape. Along the way, learn about the Sámi people and how they have lived in harmony with the native reindeer for generations. This truly special and authentic Lapland experience is perfect for creating unforgettable Christmas memories.

Duration: 1.5 hours at farm

Feel the thrill of the Arctic on an unforgettable husky safari through the snowy landscapes of Finnish Lapland. Hold on as a lively team of huskies whisks you across frozen trails, surrounded by silent forests and sparkling white scenery – the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

Duration: 1.5 hours at farm

• Children younger than 4 are only allowed on 2km husky safari.  

Step into a winter wonderland at the mystical Lainio Snow Village, located 200km above the Arctic Circle. Rebuilt each winter from over 400,000 kilos of ice and 45,000 cubic metres of snow, this impressive hotel features beautifully sculpted rooms, courtyards, an ice bar, restaurant, and even an Ice Chapel. Intricate carvings and designs inspired by Nordic mythology make each year's creation unique, offering a new experience every time you visit.

Duration: 1.5 hours at Snow Village (includes guided tour)

• Available from mid December onwards. Visits that are booked before the public opening date, may not be have a completed Village to see. You will be able to have a more 'behind the scenes' visit and maybe see the artists working. The completion of the Snow Village is weather dependent.

An opportunity for guests who have never skied before to try the wonderful world of skiing. Conditions are ideal for learning to ski with empty slopes and friendly English-speaking instructors.

Includes

• Ski tuition for 1½ hours
• Skis & boots hire all day
• Free use of beginner lifts all day

More information

• Ski Taster Package is for guests 6 years or older
• Please note that adults and children will be split into separate groups for their tuition
• If you have previously skied or had a lesson, you must book the ski saver package

Head out on a guided snowshoe adventure under the starry night sky in search of the magical Northern Lights. You’ll be guided through the pristine Arctic wilderness, under the snow-covered trees to the best spots in Yllas to witness this natural phenomenon.  Once you reach the halfway point on the trail you’ll stop for a warming drink in front of the campfire, where you will be told stories of Lapland and beliefs of the Sámi people as well as the scientific explanation of this magical light phenomenon.

Duration: 2 hours

• Children must be aged 13+ to participate in this activity

Snowshoeing in Ylläs offers a beautiful way to explore the breathtaking scenery in Finnish Lapland.  Venture out into the pristine arctic landscape on a guided snowshoe safari through the snow-covered forests. Halfway, you’ll stop for a warming berry juice in front of the fire, and as you explore the trails, your guide will tell stories about Lappish culture and the natural landscape that surrounds you. You may even encounter wildlife such as reindeer, arctic hares, and even the occasional fox or owl.  

Duration: 2 hours

• Children must be aged 7+ to participate in this activity

Enjoy a 2km husky safari through snowy Lapland trails, guided by an enthusiastic team of huskies. On this unique lapland experience, you'll drive your own team of dogs. After your magical ride, gather in a traditional Finnish kota where your guide will share fascinating stories about the huskies and their Arctic lifestyle. You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and learn more about these incredible dogs. Warm up with a cup of sweet berry juice and tasty biscuits, making this a perfect festive experience for the whole family.

Perfect for a 7-night Santa Break in Lapland, this package has everything you need for an unforgettable Arctic skiing or snowboarding experience. It includes a lift pass for effortless access to the slopes, plus skis or snowboard and boots—making it easy to hit the runs and enjoy the snowy wilderness. When you’re not on the hunt for Santa, embrace the thrill of gliding through Lapland’s winter wonderland on your skis or board.

Includes

• 6 day - Lift Pass
• 6 day - Skis/Snowboard & Boots

Make your Santa Break truly magical by adding the big three Christmas safaris! Glide through sparkling snow-covered landscapes on a husky safari led by a team of eager huskies. Experience a traditional, peaceful Reindeer Safari sleigh ride, surrounded by twinkling winter forests. And feel the festive thrill of a Snowmobile Safari, racing across the crisp, frozen Arctic terrain. These unforgettable adventures are perfect for creating cherished Christmas memories on your Santa Break.

Includes 3 activities

• 9km Husky Safari
• 1.5km Reindeer Safari
• 25km Snowmobile Safari

Available on 7-night Santa Breaks.