Christmas in Finland

22nd December 2024. Upon your arrival at Kajaani Airport, you will be met and transferred to Hotel Kalevala. The scenic drive, spanning about an hour, will treat you to the breathtaking snowy landscapes of the Finnish countryside. Upon reaching the hotel, a refreshing Welcome Drink will be served before you check in.

As the evening unfolds, we come together for our first dinner, marking the beginning of our adventures in this winter wonderland.

Start your day with breakfast, followed by a leisurely one-hour snowshoe tour through the enchanting snowy taiga forest. Accompanied by knowledgeable wilderness guides, immerse yourself in the beauty of the winter landscape. Families with small children can join in the fun with toboggans, ensuring everyone can be part of this snowy adventure.

Following the snowshoe tour, the area becomes your playground. Explore with kick sledges and toboggans at your disposal, offering endless opportunities for winter fun. Why not opt to create snow angels or visit and feed the hotel's resident reindeers?

Later in the afternoon, an eagerly awaited encounter awaits as we meet Santa Claus, known as Joulupukki in Finnish tradition. Children can share their Christmas wishes and secrets with Santa during this magical visit. As the day winds down, we return to our hotel for dinner and the chance to unwind in the onsite saunas and jacuzzis.

This morning, we journey across the picturesque snowy landscape of Kuhmo. The day takes a festive turn as we embark on a special experience: venturing out to fetch our Christmas tree. Once back at the restaurant, we'll join together to decorate it, a cherished tradition where children play a significant role in bringing the tree to life.

In Finland, decorating the Christmas tree is a momentous duty, and today, our group will continue this heartwarming tradition. Lunch will feature Christmas rice porridge, a beloved and traditional dish across Scandinavia during this joyous season. In Finland, the rice porridge holds a special place, especially for the children, as finding the hidden almond promises a prize.

This afternoon, we visit the churchyard at Kuhmo. Here, you'll have the opportunity to light a candle for your loved ones, both near and far. As the day progresses, we gather for an authentic Finnish buffet dinner.

Merry Christmas! Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a Christmas breakfast, followed by special Christmas day drives. Take your pick from exciting options: embark on a short husky sleigh ride, enjoy the charm of a reindeer sleigh adventure, or feel the thrill of a snowmobile sleigh drive. Afterwards, enjoy a magical Christmas lunch.

This evening, relax in the traditional Finnish smoke sauna or jacuzzi before feasting on a Christmas dinner with live music.

After breakfast, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace or engage in optional activities. Enjoy lunch and consider unwinding in the hotel's traditional Finnish smoke sauna or rejuvenating jacuzzi.

As the day concludes, join us for a special farewell dinner at none other than Santa's residence, creating a magical and memorable ending to your time here. Enjoy the festivities and create lasting memories at our enchanting atmosphere Christmas retreat.

27th December 2024. Our amazing Christmas in Finland comes to an end today after breakfast and hotel check out. There is a transfer included back to Kajaani airport.