A Nordic Christmas Beneath the Northern Lights

You arrive at Kittilä Airport and are met for a private transfer into the snow covered fells of Finnish Lapland. As you travel through forests and open valleys, the stillness of the Arctic landscape sets the tone for the journey ahead. You reach Levin Iglut, perched on the hillside with wide open views across the valley and sky.

After checking in, you have time to settle into your glass igloo and begin to unwind. Heated panoramic windows frame the surrounding wilderness, allowing you to remain warm while fully immersed in the landscape. A welcome drink marks the start of your Arctic adventure, offering a moment to slow down and take in the quiet.

As night falls, you enjoy a three course dinner in the restaurant, showcasing Nordic flavours and seasonal ingredients. Afterwards, you may return to your igloo to watch the stars appear overhead, with the possibility of the Northern Lights illuminating the sky. You spend the night at Levin Iglut in Prime Superior and Suite Glass Igloos.

You begin the day with breakfast overlooking the snowy valley before heading out onto a frozen lake for a guided ice fishing experience. You learn traditional techniques, drill through thick ice, and enjoy the calm of the winter wilderness. A crackling fire, hot drinks, and the silence of the lake create a truly atmospheric setting.

Lunch follows before you return to Levin Iglut for a private Arctic wellness experience. You relax in the sauna and outdoor hot tub, where steam rises into the cold air and the contrast between heat and snow brings deep relaxation.

In the evening, you enjoy a three course dinner served upstairs before setting out on a Northern Lights photography tour. Travelling by minivan with expert guides, you explore remote locations chosen for clear skies and optimal Aurora conditions. Late at night, you return to your glass igloo, falling asleep beneath the Arctic sky.

After breakfast, you head out for a self drive husky sled adventure. You meet your team of energetic huskies and learn how to control the sled before gliding through snow covered forests and across frozen trails. The experience is exhilarating, offering a deep connection to Lapland’s wilderness.

After the ride, you visit the husky kennel and learn about the dogs and their life in the Arctic, accompanied by hot drinks. Lunch follows before a relaxed afternoon back at Levin Iglut. You may choose to soak in the outdoor hot tub or simply enjoy the changing light through the glass ceiling.

In the evening, you are treated to a five course dinner, highlighting refined Nordic cuisine. The night is free to relax and watch the sky, where stars and Northern Lights often make an appearance.

You enjoy breakfast before departing Levi on a private premium transfer to Rovaniemi. The scenic drive passes frozen rivers and dense forests, offering a final glimpse of Levi’s fells. Lunch is taken at leisure during the journey or on arrival.

At Skyra Retreat, set beside Lake Norvajärvi, you check in and take time to settle into the peaceful surroundings. Afternoon tea is served, allowing you to slow the pace and absorb the calm atmosphere of the retreat.

In the evening, you enjoy a three course dinner before heading out onto the frozen lake for an ice floating experience. Wearing insulated thermal suits, you float effortlessly in icy water while remaining warm and dry. The silence of the Arctic wilderness heightens the experience, with stars and possibly the Northern Lights appearing overhead.

Christmas Eve begins with an à la carte breakfast before you set out on a guided ski trekking safari. Using back country skis, you glide across deep snow and explore the quiet Lapland wilderness at an unhurried pace.

After lunch, you return to Skyra Retreat for a relaxed afternoon. You may enjoy afternoon tea, unwind in the Nordic Spa, or explore the snowy grounds. Festive celebrations begin with Christmas tree decorating in the lounge, accompanied by warm spiced drinks. A visit from Santa brings a magical touch to the evening.

You then take part in a traditional Christmas sauna ritual, where candlelight, seasonal aromas, and gentle heat create a deeply atmospheric experience. A three course festive dinner follows before you head out on a Northern Lights wilderness tour, guided by Aurora experts. You return to the retreat late in the evening for a peaceful Christmas Eve night.

You wake on Christmas Day to a festive breakfast and a special gift from Skyra Retreat. The morning is calm and unhurried, allowing you to enjoy the stillness of the Arctic landscape.

You then travel to a traditional Sami reindeer farm, where you learn about indigenous culture and centuries old traditions. A reindeer sleigh ride through the forest offers a quiet and meaningful way to experience the land, followed by a traditional fika break with warm drinks.

Lunch is enjoyed before you return to the retreat for a relaxed afternoon. Gingerbread decorating during afternoon tea adds a festive and light hearted moment to the day.

In the evening, you enjoy a festive Christmas dinner, bringing the day to a warm close. You may choose to relax by the fire or unwind in the spa.

After breakfast, you begin your journey into Swedish Lapland by private transfer. En route, you stop at the UNESCO listed Gammelstad Church Town, where historic wooden cottages surround a medieval stone church. You have time to explore and learn about its cultural significance.

You continue to Loggers Lodge, a secluded wilderness retreat reserved exclusively for you. On arrival, your hosts welcome you with a property tour, drinks, and snacks.

The afternoon is spent relaxing in the wood fired sauna and outdoor hot tub surrounded by snow and forest. In the evening, an in room gourmet dinner is prepared, allowing you to dine privately in the warmth of the lodge. With no nearby light pollution, the night often offers exceptional Northern Lights viewing directly from the property.

Breakfast is served in room before you head out for a guided snowshoeing adventure. A snowmobile sled takes you deeper into untouched wilderness, where you explore snowy terrain at a gentle pace. Warm drinks and gourmet snacks are served, followed by lunch cooked over an open fire.

Returning to the lodge, you enjoy afternoon tea and time in the sauna before dinner. Later, you set out on a Northern Lights safari in a heated panoramic glass sled, timed for the best Aurora conditions. The remote setting offers outstanding opportunities for vivid displays. You return to the lodge late in the evening for a restful night.

You begin your final full day with an in room breakfast before embarking on a snowmobiling adventure through frozen forests and across pristine lakes. Driving modern snowmobiles, you access remote landscapes while switching between driver and passenger roles if you wish.

Lunch is served back at the lodge, followed by a relaxed afternoon. The sauna is prepared once again, offering time to unwind and reflect on the journey. Optional wellness treatments may be arranged in advance.

In the evening, you enjoy a farewell gourmet dinner in room. You spend your final night immersed in Arctic silence, watching the sky for one last Northern Lights display.

On your final morning, you enjoy a gentle walk through the forest and a last soak in the outdoor hot tub before breakfast. A private transfer then takes you to Luleå Airport, bringing your Christmas journey through Swedish and Finnish Lapland to a close.