This itinerary brings together the very best of Finnish Lapland and northern Norway as you journey from the Arctic Circle to the Arctic Sea. From Santa's home town of Rovaniemi to Tromso, city of the Northern Lights, you'll discover what makes this region so exciting, with stays at contemporary hotels and even a boutique glass igloo along the way. Add on excursions such as snowmobiling, husky-sledding, ice fishing and horseback riding throughout, and explore traditional Sami culture with a hosted stay on a Reindeer Ranch. There's even a chance to brush up on your photography skills with a speciality tour, so when you have the chance to chase the Northern Lights at the end of your trip, you're ready to capture it all on camera.
Fjell to Fjord: Finnish Lapland and Arctic Norway
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At a glance…
Journey from fjell to fjord as you experience a classic winter break
» 8 day tailor-made break
» Accommodation: Standard A good standard of clean and comfortable accommodation with a reasonable range of facilities (typically 3 stars)
» Price from: £1,600
Day by day itinerary
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Day 1 » UK to Rovaniemi
Fly out to Rovaniemi and settle into your accommodation, a contemporary hotel in the heart of the city. Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is perhaps best known as Santa Claus' home town, so why not visit Santa Claus Village for a reindeer ride and some gingerbread with Father Christmas himself. Or, stop by the Arktikum Science Centre to learn more about the Arctic Circle and its unique geography and climate. If you're craving adventure, try out some classic winter activities such as husky sledding and snowmobiling across the icy wilderness, before returning to your hotel for a well-earned night's sleep.
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Day 2 » Rovaniemi
After breakfast in your hotel, you have a full day to further explore the charms of Rovaniemi; explore the city at your own pace or add on more exciting activities. If you're hoping to capture the Northern Lights on camera, a dedicated photography excursion is the perfect way to prepare – learn all the tips and tricks you need to achieve the best aurora images across the rest of your trip. This evening, dine at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Lappish cuisine, and perhaps head out on an ice floating experience under the stars, wearing a survival suit to keep you warm and dry.
Stay: Arctic Light Hotel, Rovaniemi
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 3 » Rovaniemi to Levi
This morning after breakfast you'll start your journey by bus or train through Lappish countryside, watching the snowy scenery change as you make your way to Levi. On arrival a short walk sees you to the Levi Summit Gondola, which will take you up to your hotel atop a tree-clad fell with stunning panoramic views across the surrounding ski terrain. Check in and enjoy the remainder of the day in Levi, perhaps adding on a horseback riding excursion on Finn horses with an expert local guide. Return to your hotel in the evening and use the hotel's sauna before enjoying a delicious dinner overlooking the snowy slopes.
Stay: Levi Panorama, Finnish Lapland
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 4 » Levi
After breakfast this morning, you have a day to discover Levi at your leisure. Cross country trails and a network of thrilling ski runs are on your doorstep if you're planning to hit the slopes. Alternatively, try your hand at another Arctic excursion – husky-sledding and snowmobiling are also available here. For something a little different, visit the Snow Village in Lainio, built each year with fresh snow and ice. A tour guide will show you around the magical sculptures and intricately carved rooms before taking you to the Ice Bar to warm up with a hot drink. You can even stay for dinner in the spectacular Ice Restaurant before returning to your hotel.
Stay: Levi Panorama, Finnish Lapland
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 5 » Levi to Kilpisjärvi
After checking out of your hotel this morning you'll journey by bus through Fjell Lapland, an area of pristine national parks and nature reserves. Your destination is Vasara Reindeer Farm, where you'll be hosted during your stay by a local Sami reindeer herding family. Observe everyday life and see the reindeer up close on the ranch, which is located in quaint Kilpisjärvi. This tiny village has just 140 year-round inhabitants, and because it's close to both Sweden and Norway you'll have views of the Scandinavian mountains on one side and rolling fjells on the other. Settle in to your boutique glass igloo accommodation with a hearty Lappish dinner before a night sleeping under the stars.
Stay: Reindeer Ranch
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 6 » Kilpisjärvi to Tromsø
Spend a day in Kilpisjärvi with a behind the scenes look at life as a Sami reindeer herder. You'll also have the option of adding on more outdoor pursuits; try ice fishing or join a snowmobiling tour to the border of three Arctic countries – Finland, Norway and Sweden. This evening, you'll hop back onto the Arctic Route bus and continue on your journey to Tromsø, city of the Northern Lights. Your accommodation for the night is right on the shores of the Arctic Sea, just moments from some of the city's best restaurants and bars.
Stay: Clarion Collection Hotel With, Tromso
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 7 » Tromsø
After breakfast spend the day exploring Tromsø at your own pace. A popular add-on tour is a cruise around the glacial waters of the Tromsø fjords, or you might prefer to visit the Fjellheisen for a breathtaking view of the city with the Lyngen Alps in the distance. Because Tromsø is located in the middle of the auroral oval, tonight is also your best chance of seeing the elusive Northern Lights. Take a tour with an expert guide to seek the aurora and make use of the photography skills you gained at the start of the trip. Or, simply enjoy a relaxed evening in town before a final night in your hotel.
Stay: Clarion Collection Hotel With, Tromso
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 8 » Return to the UK
After a final breakfast in your hotel this morning, head to the airport to catch your flight home to the UK.
To book call us on:
At a glance…
Journey from fjell to fjord as you experience a classic winter break
» 8 day tailor-made break
» Accommodation: Standard A good standard of clean and comfortable accommodation with a reasonable range of facilities (typically 3 stars)
» Price from: £1,600
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