Levi Holidays

This Lapland village – in Finland’s northern fells – might be remote, but it certainly isn’t quiet. It’s one of Finland’s top places for skiing and snowboarding for a start, and the buzz continues off-piste in the bars and restaurants. There are also snowmobile safaris, reindeer rides, visits to Father Christmas – and a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Come October, when the permanent snow cover arrives, Levi kicks in as a world-class ski resort – one of the biggest in Finland, no less. There are tonnes of slopes – some of which are floodlit, which is great for beginners and intermediates. And the three black runs should keep experts happy. Snowboarders, meanwhile, get a duo of snow parks, a superpipe and a halfpipe.

When it comes to activities, Levi doesn’t stop at skiing. You can go fishing, Finnish-style – casting a line through a hole in the frozen ice – or speed across frozen lakes at 50 miles an hour on the back of a snowmobile. Another great way to see the fantastic scenery is on a reindeer safari or by taking a husky ride.

Of course, Lapland's home to Father Christmas, so a visit to meet him is usually in order. You can also help the elves make gifts in his workshop, then write your list and give it to the man himself. You can refuel on Mrs Santa's biscuits and buy some souvenirs, too.

Day 1 - The Warm Up

When you arrive at Kittila airport, Santa’s elves will greet you and take you to your accommodation. Then you’ve got a free afternoon to get a feel for the place.

Day 2 - Winter Wonderland

Get immersed in Lappish culture with short taster sessions of husky sledge-riding and snowmobiling in the morning. Then you’ll get to see a traditional Shaman storytelling session, followed by some free time in the afternoon.

Day 3 - Frosty Fun

Those of you on 3-night trips will enjoy Day 4’s activity list today instead.

You can take your pick of things to do. Cruise through the countryside on a snowmobile or on the back of a husky or reindeer-driven sleigh. Or try out the traditional sport of ice fishing.

Day 4 - Festive Fun

These activities will be on Day 3 for guests on a 3-night stay. Today, you’ll head out to Santa’s activity area in the Kittila countryside for a day of festive fun. Try your hand at decorating cookies and making Christmas ornaments, zoom through the snow on a toboggan ride, and top your day off with a face-to-face meeting with Santa himself. Later, you’ll tuck into a traditional Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.

For these trips, you can stay at any of our hotels in Levi, Yllas and Pallas. We try to pack as much fun in as possible, so activities can differ from the order above. Everything will be included at some point, though. If you want to celebrate Christmas Day in Levi, book our 4-night trip departing on the 23rd December.