Yllas Holidays

This Lapland resort in northern Finland is split into two villages on either side of a mountain. There’s just a smattering of shops and restaurants here – and that’s exactly the appeal. As for the setting, you’re surrounded by the vast Pallas-Yllas National Park, a fairytale landscape of frozen lakes and snow-covered forests.

Yllas is considered to be Father Christmas’s original home. The bearded one lives in a house in Akaslompolo, one of the two villages here. On a visit, the elves introduce everybody to the reindeer, then there’s a speedy two-kilometre ride with the huskies before meeting Mr Claus himself. There’s a restaurant and gift shop onsite, too.

Between November and May, Yllas is a sought-after ski resort. Round here you’ve got some 300 kilometres of downhill and cross-country trails, many of which are floodlit into the evening. Pistes are wide and quiet, with the cold weather making for powder-perfect conditions. It’s generally better for beginners and intermediates, with a ski school available in case you need a confidence booster.

The Yllas fell, or mountain, is the ideal spot to try a new winter sport, such as snowmobiling, ice fishing or husky sledding. Husky safaris allow you to drive a team of dogs – it’s one of the fastest ways to travel around these parts, and there are no speed limits. For a gentler trip, there’s always a reindeer sleigh ride.

Away from the bright lights of Rovaneimi, Lapland has a quiet side. Visit the town of Levi and the villages of Yllas and Pallas, and you’ll come across snowy fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, and thick forests that are waiting to be explored. It’s one of the most authentic Lappish experiences you can get.

Fly To Kittila



Day 1 - The Warm-up

When you arrive at the 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. Strap on some skis and head for the slopes or relax by the fire in your cabin or hotel.

Day 2 - Winter Wonderland

You’ll get a big dose of Lappish culture today. In the morning you can take a short husky sledge ride or opt for a snowmobiling session. Then you’ll get to see a traditional Arctic Circle crossing ceremony. You’ll have some free time in the afternoon. Hop into a snowsuit and challenge your family to a snowball fight, or test out a short sleigh ride.

Day 3 - Frosty Fun

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

You can take your pick of things to do today. Cruise through the countryside on a snowmobile or on the back of a husky or reindeer-driven sleigh. Try out the traditional sport of ice fishing. Or just spend the day nursing a warm wine in a local bar.

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 as possible into these trips, so activities can differ from the order above. Everything will be included at some point, though. If you want to celebrate Christmas Day in Yllas, book our 4-night trip departing on the 23rd December.