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Last chance Lapland: how to do a Finnish day trip with preteens

Searching for Santa on a Lapland holiday is one of those dream family experiences. Jo White and family went to discover if the once in a lifetime trip is worth it with pre-teens or is it too late?

Elves, Santa’s Post Office, Lapland

Real snow quickly sets the Lapland holiday mood

“Eden, look! Proper snow” shouted Logan excitedly. He had just walked off the plane and was somehow already armed with the first of the many snowballs he was going to throw at her that day.

The instant rush of the cold Arctic air had hit us all. It hadn’t felt much like Christmas when we left Gatwick three hours earlier, but now we found ourselves in the global epicentre of Christmas and mere minutes away from Santa’s mystical Lapland home.

I have two step-children, Eden (12) and Logan (10), and I had always dreamed of experiencing this magical break with them. Over the last eight years, I have brought them into my travel world, but when it came to a Lapland holiday, we were running out of time. It was now or never. 

Jo and family with Santa, Lapland holiday

No trouble getting kids to get up early for this adventure

We were on the day trip to Enontekiö , in Finland, with award-winning Canterbury Travel, the Lapland holiday specialists. They offer an impressive collection of day trips and short breaks from a variety of regional airports, so it was a joy to fly from Gatwick, so close to where we live.

It wasn’t difficult to get the kids up at 4.00 a.m. for our journey to the airport. They had received their personal invitation from Santa a few weeks prior, praising them for being good this year, and were counting down the minutes. Their branded backpacks and water bottles were by the front door, and we were on our way on time, for once.

Greeted by friendly festive staff at check-in, we were instantly thrown into a merry frenzy, an energy that would be maintained throughout the day.

The excitement on our festive flight to Enontekiö Airport was out of this world and we were still singing carols as we began our descent over the glistening, frosty Finnish landscape.

Despite the months of waiting, we were finally in the icy winter wonderland: the cold, fresh air made everyone stop in awe at the sparkling vistas that welcomed us. The kids were all eager to get started on their Lapland holiday with a search for the Big Man in Red, and the magnitude of where we all were hit. So we knew it was going to be a very special day.

Traditional transport, Lapland holiday

Speeding through Lapland’s snow covered woodland

Boy were they expecting us at Enontekiö. I have never disembarked a plane so quickly as we did on this Lapland holiday. We were through passport control in minutes and guided by energetic Elves into a separate building where we were all swiftly kitted out in snow suits, hats, gloves and boots. 

Rows of sleighs (pulled by snowmobiles) were already lined up for us and before we knew it, we were snuggled under blankets and whizzing across the endless snowy woodland, the fresh falling snow sprinkling continuously down on us.

I could hear Eden squealing in the back, excited by the pure thrill and speed of the 15-minute journey to Santa’s Village. Although she’s a non-believer now, being almost a teenager, she was instantly swept up into the magic and without her phone (we had left it in our storage sack back at the airport) she was almost childlike again.

Logan and Eden with Santa, Lapland holiday

The search for Santa is the real reason for a Lapland holiday

“It’s your lucky day”, said a cheery Elf as we (I mainly) clambered out of the sleigh. “You are the first family to go and see Santa. Please follow my Best Elf friend here”. 

The suspense was real as we walked up the lantern-lit pathway of steps to Santa’s log cabin. An Elf was waiting by a fire pit, so Logan put the snowball he had been working on down immediately and walked slowly towards the cabin. He opened the door and instantly froze, gazing in astonishment. We had found him! That must be some kind of a Canterbury Travel record for finding Father Christmas.

Sitting either side of Santa in his toasty cabin, the kids delightfully told him how good they have been this year. Even though Eden knows the truth, she still seemed innocently keen to impress Santa. And he had plenty of time for them; softly asking them questions and trying to get to know them a little.

At the end of our time with the star attraction, Santa gifted both of the kids a Christmas present, a cute, cuddly reindeer that they both loved and will cherish forever.

Elfing around in snowy Lapland

A winter playground like we have never seen

We felt like we had ticked off the big bucket list item pretty early on in our day, so the playtime part of our Lapland holiday was now on! But first, we headed into the restaurant that offers unlimited buffet food, pancakes, teas, coffees and hot chocolate all day to warm up a bit. Our menu for the day included delicious vegetable soup and pasta Bolognese.  

Once refuelled, we headed out into the wilderness to tackle the different activities.

Everything was in close proximity to the central hub of the restaurant but even so, everywhere where you went, jovial elves showed you the way – apart from the one that was willingly being buried in the snow by about 10 children.

The children have never seen real snow before, at least snow that has settled. After some obligatory snow angels, both Eden and Logan quickly became obsessed with the Stiga toboggans, which the kids can steer themselves. Neither was brave enough at first to go down by themselves, but following a tandem run, they were up and down like yoyos, dragging their toboggans back up to the top of the hill for another go.

My husband and I also had plenty of turns speeding, and sometimes spinning, down the hill. It was exhilarating! Plus, it was a chance for all the grown ups to be free and connect with their inner child too.

Huskies, Lapland

How much did I love being in charge of a snowmobile

The snowmobile experience was my favourite part of the day, although I think Logan is still slightly traumatised by my driving.

Only adults with full driving licenses can drive them and safety is taken very seriously before you’re let loose to do a lap of an enormous field. After a few kangaroo-jumps, I got to grips with the beast and got slightly braver with the speed as we progressed.

The kids can get a feel for driving them too. In the children’s snowmobile area, there are two zones, each with a snowmobile tied to a central pole that the kids can drive round and round in circles. “Eden, hold the handlebar in!”. “Go faster Eden, it’s easy!”, shrieked Logan. 

The six hours flew by! Logan loved the Reindeer Sleigh Ride and being pulled by Rudolph himself. The snow igloo was spectacular, a place of calm with impressive sculptures, and a bar serving traditional hot berry juice.

Eden’s highlight was definitely the husky sled ride, which ventures into the surrounding wilderness.

We got there just as a new pack of dogs was being led down. They were ready and raring to go, clearly very happy and just wanting to run. The ride was peaceful yet fast and the silence of the tranquil wilderness was a complete contrast to the madness of children laughing and playing we had just left behind. Now we couldn’t hear a sound.

We warmed up after the husky ride in a nearby tipi, roasting marshmallows over an open fire. Perfection.

Toasting marshmallows and being kids, Lapland

Is a Lapland holiday worth it with pre-teens?

Visitors had to queue for most of the attractions, but the longest we waited was for the husky ride, arguably the most popular attraction, and that was only 15 minutes. There was also a fire pit so you could warm up as you waited.

Even though there were a lot of families, we somehow spent a lot of time alone, just the four of us, enjoying the attractions or building a snowman in the woods together. It really was a special bonding experience that as a family we have never done.

The activities were stimulating for children of all ages. Eden found them hardcore and she’s no wimp. Plus, the smile didn’t leave her face all day. You could see how swept up she was in the wonder and excitement of it all. Plus, being the caring soul she is, there were times where she helped some of the little ones there too. Logan, complete with perma-rosy cheeks, was just there for the thrills and he was buzzing with adrenaline all day. He could not get enough of the snow or the fast rides.

In fact the only time they were quiet was when they were showing Santa their best selves. The rest of the day was filled with belly aching laughter and endless ‘wow’ moments. Whatever your family dynamic, if you’re thinking of taking children about the same age, I would highly recommend it. Don’t leave them behind because you think they are too old for a Lapland holiday. Unless they’re on Santa’s Naughty List, of course. 

Santa, Canterbury Travel Lapland holiday

Book your Canterbury Travel Lapland day trip now for 2024

Canterbury Travel’s Enchanting Lapland day trips book out quite far in advance so book now for 2024 to avoid any disappointment. Day trips start from £719 per person. They also offer a collection of three, four and six night short breaks starting from £1455 per person, for those who want to stay longer. 

Find out more and for 2024 now at Canterbury Travel

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Hello traveller!

 Day trip to Lapland with Canterbury Travel

    By April Drew  

I’ve tears building up in my eyes. “What’s wrong mom?” asks Arden, my 6-year-old. “Are you okay? ” 

I am here standing in the middle of Lapland (or what we describe as Lapland to the kids for the day that’s in it). It is dark but extremely bright at the same time. There is snow all around us, it is beyond freezing (-28 degrees) and it’s the most beautiful place on earth I’ve ever been, hence the tears.  

This place evokes all kinds of emotions and, yes; I had been forewarned, but until you experience it firsthand it is just impossible to know what it feels like! To my right are reindeer, just hanging around waiting to take the next family on a sleigh ride. To my left, and behind the restaurant, the huskys are gearing up to take a family through the woods at high speed. Is this place for real? We have just come out of an ice igloo where ice sculptures made our jaws drop; we had some hot berry juice to warm us up. There was even a bed made of ice to try out. Prior to that Colum (12) and Sadie (10) tested out tobogganing; an activity they have never had the chance to experience before, well because we never get snow like this, white, powdery, bright, sparkling, snow! Up and down the hill they went several times while I took a ridiculous number of pictures.  

The Day Trip  

Canterbury Travel invited me to join them on their day trip to Lapland on December 12th, 2022, departing from Dublin. Because Riley (our 4th child) was only 1 they advised against him traveling as it would have been too cold and a buggy would have been next to impossible in the snowy terrain. So, John stayed back in Ireland with Riley and I got to take Colum, Sadie, and Arden on a trip of a lifetime. I was slightly apprehensive about taking them to Finland (Lapland) alone for just the day but, boy, was it the most magical, memorable day of our lives.  

We stayed at the Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport the night before (cost €146). I decided to park the car at the short term car park at Dublin Airport at the last minute so when I got out later that night I wouldn’t have far to go to grab the car as we had a 2-hour journey home to face into. 

Our flight was due to take off at 8am but it was delayed by over an hour because of the ice (it was that week in December when we had –5 degrees). But it didn’t dampen our spirits, we were eventually up in the air and the excitement was real. Arden just could not wait to meet the real Santa and the older two were hopeful there would be lots of snow. We were all served breakfast during the flight and later given soft drinks and water. The flight was 3 and a half hours. We arrived at lunchtime, Finland time.  

Lapland  

Upon descending into Lapland all we could see were fields and fields of snow. It was breathtaking. Once we quickly disembarked, we were ushered into the small airport in Enontekio by the Canterbury elves who were fantastic. The airport was no more than a plane hangar which made it super easy to get through. We were escorted over to collect our thermal snow suits, boots, face masks etc. Canterbury provides all of these. (Please see page 32 for tips on what to bring yourself). I was afraid of the cold. -28 degrees is nothing to laugh about but the suits, snow boots and gloves (we grabbed mitten type gloves from the restaurant when we arrived in Lapland itself) kept us nice and snug all day. After about 30-45 minutes of gathering all our clothes and getting changed, we were ready to start the trip. 

Sleigh Ride through the forest  

Outside the door, a snow sleigh was waiting to take us through the woods to Santa village. This was when the tears started for me. Picture this: a 20-minute sleigh ride through the woods, with a frozen lake beside us, the sky is dark, but the scenery is glistening white. It is beyond cold and even more breathtaking. I snuggled Arden while I cherished this time and ensured this moment would be etched in my memory forever. Colum and Sadie were behind us, and I could hear them saying this was already the best day of their lives.  

Santa’s Village   

Once arriving at Santa Village, you are greeted by more elves, fires burning to keep warm, and a total sense of peace and tranquility. In the background, Christmas music was pipping through the forest and fairy lights donned all the trees and huts. It was beyond magical! After getting our bearings we first checked in to book our slot to see the Main Man, Santa, and off we went to explore. We were given a time that was close to the end of the day which suited us.  

You are left to your own devices for the 1-day trip which was excellent as we didn’t want to learn how to ride a snowmobile (but others did) but we really really wanted to do a reindeer ride (multiple times).  

But first, we popped into the restaurant for some hot chocolate and pancakes and borrowed some mitten gloves (the staff here advise mittens (leather outside, fur inside) as your fingers create heat naturally through friction, if they are separated into digit gloves you will not get this heat and will be cold.)  

Activities  

First up we explored what our surroundings had to offer. It wasn’t a big space, so it was ideal to be able to get around to all the activities within minutes. There was every sort of activity in the snow you could think of, and we had plenty of time to try them all. My gang spent some time tobogganing, visiting the ice igloo, experiencing a reindeer ride through the forest (short) and more tobogganing on the Stiga toboggans (there was a smaller and larger slope for these).  

Arden didn’t want to do the Huskey sleigh ride (and because I was the only adult with them the other kids didn’t get to go on but they were not pushed) but the reindeer sleigh ride (which we went on 3 times) was just as wonderful (another teary moment).  

We went back to the restaurant for some spaghetti for lunch (you can have lunch at any time of your choosing) The menu usually includes soup, baked potatoes with either a meat or vegetarian filling, pasta and a sweet dessert of pancakes and jam. Soon it would be time to meet Santa Claus. You can stay inside the warm restaurant or be outside, and your number will be called to visit Santa and this is heard throughout the village.  

Santa   

We were driven through the forest again in a sleigh, dropped off at the beginning of a magical path and, to really let the excitement build, we walked another 2-3 minutes in the dark and snow with fairy lights overhead and fires aplenty, to be met by one of Santa’s favourite elves who had a brief chat with the kids until it was time to go inside Santa’s hut (sitting room) and say hello.  

Santa was wonderful (because he was the real Santa), and his English was impeccable. We were about five minutes chatting to the man in the red suit. He advised the kids to be good, asked them what they wanted for Christmas, and made some more magical small talk. I got to take some pictures on the phone and they were each given a Lapland teddy. It was short but absolutely wonderful and Arden still chats about it.  

Gift shop  

So, we had about another 30 minutes to spare before it was time to go back to the airport. We pottered around the gift shop and bought some souvenirs (and a teddy for Riley). There is only a restaurant (with toilets) and a gift shop. There is nowhere else to spend your money and no shop for food, medicine etc so just take that into account. Make sure to bring plenty of snacks in your bag pack for the kids.  

The end of the day  

After approximately six hours of magic in the snow it was time to say our goodbyes to Lapland and return back to the airport (this time via a warm shuttle bus). We returned all our gear, gathered up our bits, had a quick snoop at the airport shop (super small), and back to Ireland we went with our cups full of Christmas cheer! We were served dinner on the way home. We all slept a little on the flight which helped me with the drive back to Tipperary later that night.  

It was, without any doubt, the most magical day of my life. I have never experienced anything like it (and I’ve been skiing several times and lived in New York where we would get major snowstorms) Snow, darkness, lights, Santa, and Christmas music all mushed up together are definitely the recipe for absolute magic! Give it a go!  

PLANE  

We didn’t bring any electronics (except my phone) because we didn’t want to leave anything at the airport (where you stored your clothes etc) so the kids had a book each, some card games and colours. They were never bored. Some kids did have ipads etc with them. The youngest child on our flight seemed to be 2 and a half or 3. I would not advise bringing kids any younger.  

Canterbury is now taking bookings for 2023. A day trip to Lapland from Dubin for a family of four costs from €2980, and a family of three from €2275. They also have overnight trips available from Dublin for 2023. Prices are all on their website. For a family of four, a 2-day trip is €6,860 and a 3 day is €7,230.  Please note there are different locations for different trips. The overnight trips would be to locations with hotels, restaurants, shops etc.   To book, visit www.CanterburyTravel.com or call 1800 827300.   

This was a press trip organised by Canterbury Travel for us. 

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Canterbury Travel Day Trips - Lapland Forum

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I am considering booking a day trip to Lapland with Canterbury Travel, taking 3 children aged 9, 6 and 18 months. Can anyone advise whether it is worth it?! I am really keen but am trying to persuade the other half it is worth the money. The deal currently offers 1 free child place. Thanks!

I lot of people who have been on day trips say its all very rushed and not worth the money -

I have seen day trips for £400 per person - You can get 1 week in early dec for that price -

Look at Inghams or Crystal ski - they also do 3 or 4 day trips -

We went for 2 week last christmas and filled all our days with trips and ski-ing etc - and are going again for 2 weeks this Christmas.

I would not book a day trip would do 4 days at the very least but 1 week is best value for money.

Hope it helps a bit.

Another point is that I would not bring a 1,5 year old child with me on a day trip. He/she will add another stress factor to the busy schedule. And the memories won't last that long at that age.

This time it looks, as rare as it might be, that your husband is right ;)

Thanks for the replies. Unfortunately as I work in a school I cannot have holidays during term time. This is another reason for the day trip. It falls on my day off and with the free child place saves us £379.00. Am also not in a position to leave 18 month old at home so all things considered it is a worry that the day would be too long for all of us and stressful!!!

I think it would be a good idea to check prices and availability for longer Lapland holidays - they book up really quickly for school holiday periods, but I had a quick look on Crystal Ski website and they have eg. 7 nights at Salla Log Cabis (self catering) available from 21st December, price for 2 adults, 2 children and 1 infant totalled 2140 pounds.

I would wait another year so both kids will enjoy it more - i would defo go for 1 week the price that Nettle mentions is a good price for Christmas Week - we loved being there for CHristmas Morning :)

We did a day trip with Canterbury, and whilst it was very good, it is extremely rushed and quite pricey.

We loved Lapland so much that we booked a week after this for the same price, and it was just fantastic.

You can still go to the santa village, and it is so much better to have more time there.

Hope you enjoy it, whatever you decide to do!

Thanks for all your help. Am trying hard to find a deal where we can go in the Xmas holidays but the best I can find is £1000 more than the cost of the day trip, which makes it too much for us this year. Plus it was self catering so it would turn out to be lots more than that with clothing and food. I know we would be there for 7 days and it would be fantastic but I would really like to go this year with the 9 yr old and 6 yr old for obvious reasons!! The 18 month old won't remember a thing but he would be in the photos!!! Plus next year we will have to pay for him. He is quite good but it is still a concern. If we don't make up our minds soon the offer of a free child place will probably be gone and we won't be going at all!!!

Thanks again for your comments. What a great forum!! Phya sounds and looks wonderful, maybe the place to book next year after we have saved up!

That will give you even less time in Lapland.

That is a good point to remember!

Lots of familys had very unhappy children:-(

have you thought of doing the 3 to 4 day santa trips with inghams? you then pay for the activities when you get there

I am also in the same position as you as my partner works in a school and we are also tied to the school hols, we have booked new year week and it was under 2 grand for 3 adults and 2 children staying in a cabin, this was booked with crystal.

as for the expense when you are out there, when we were there for christmas we spent about 100 quid on food and ate very well. It is also cheaper to hire the show gear than it is to buy so there is also a saving there

what is your budget and how many of you are going?

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Canterbury Travel   Reviews

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Excellent booking experience

Excellent booking experience, staff member was friendly, informative and very helpful. Nice easy booking just want you want.

Date of experience : 18 March 2024

Absolutely magical

Absolutely magical. One of the best holidays I’ve ever been on. Brilliantly organised - handling a couple of guest issues with total professionalism. Our Arctic star (rep) Timothy was absolutely brilliant - not just with the adults but also with the kids. Huge thanks to him Amazing activities - the memories of which will stay with us for a lifetime. And the elves were totally amazing. Special mention to Wendy Wood whom we all loved and Speedy Sam who my son now hero worships and who spotted and waved to him as we left. Would totally recommend.

Date of experience : 16 December 2023

We’ve just come back from Enontekio m

We’ve just come back from Enontekio m, booked with Canterbury Travel and couldn’t fault it. The kids had the most magical time and we loved it so much that we’re going to book again for next year. Everything was so well organised from arriving at the airport to leaving. Everything was included with the price which is a bonus when you’ve got kids as they seem to ask for everything. Can’t wait to book again with Canterbury Travel, a highly recommended company

Date of experience : 22 December 2023

Christmas Sparkle (Soumu)

We had the most magical time in Lapland, meeting Santa, Husky ride, Reindeers, it was all perfect! Special mention to Robert our arctic star, he was fantastic-thank you! We would definitely recommend Canterbury travel.

Date of experience : 18 December 2023

A wonderful magical experience

A wonderful magical experience, everything was seamless and thought through. Our Arctic Star was Wendy and she did a fantastic job, especially considering she told us it was her first tour on her own. The booking experience was also great with helpful service.

Date of experience : 19 December 2023

Suomu Christmas sparkle

We went from stansted to suomu for the Christmas sparkle package and overall it was a good experience. Jet2 were fab and couldn’t fault the energy and enthusiasm of the Canterbury staff. We thought the food was excellent too. Everything was well organised but… for the price level there were some things that were disappointing. There were no clean mugs in our log cabin (not just tea stains actual dried on hot chocolate) so had to wash them all up before we could have a warm drink. We had to bring our own hot drinks as tea bags, coffee etc isn’t provided in the lodge/cabins (we were aware of this before travel but for a 2 night £6k holiday seems ridiculous that a few tea bags couldn’t be provided). There were also no Christmas lights or decorations in our log cabin - just one light up reindeer. Meeting Santa was magical but the children made Christmas cards whilst they were waiting to go in and were given paper cups of old broken crayons (surely some felt tips/glitter etc could have been provided). None of these things were terrible or ruined it in any way for the kids but so many people had raved about the experience and for something that was so expensive we had expected it to be incredible- not just good.

Date of experience : 15 December 2023

Not been yet to lapland yet but…

Not been yet to lapland yet but as far as Canterbury Travel goes, really helpful staff, happy to explore all the options and then helped me find the package that was right for me and my family not necessarily what can feel like the one that makes them the most money or biggest bonus. Able to answer all my questions how ever unusual they may have been. Their confidence made me feel booking with them was safe and secure.

Date of experience : 23 March 2023

Christmas at Suomu

Thank you to the lady my daughter spoke to last night when we realised the Gatwick flights to Luosto for Christmas 2023 were fully booked. She advised us to consider Stansted to Suomu which we did. I booked this wonderful-looking family trip for a large group of us this morning. Carl, you were so helpful, friendly and professional, despite the problems with your phone, and our documents have already been emailed and sorted. We can’t wait for our Christmas holiday!

Date of experience : 12 January 2023

Reply from Canterbury Travel

Glad Carl was able to help you book this trip for your family. We'll see you in Lapland later this year! Best regards, Donna Canterbury Travel

Fantastic but busy day - loved it

We travelled to Enontekio Finland with Canterbury Travel for the day. The day was amazing, the place was fantastic, plenty to do & not over crowded as there were only 2 planes of people there. Only thing that is needed to improve the day is to make the suit & boot collection better - that part of the day was very chaotic. Other than that highly recommend the day - was an awesome experience - loved it

Date of experience : 02 December 2022

Thank you for your review Mrs Stevens. We're sorry that collecting your snow suits and boots was chaotic. Unfortunately, Enontekio is a very small airport but our team at this location are working hard to improve this. We delighted that you had a good time in Lapland. Merry Christmas from us all ! Donna Canterbury Travel

Made a phone booking for my family…

Made a phone booking for my family today. Things were not straight forward but the customer service assistant Bernie went to a great deal of trouble to sort out the issues. Thank you so much for your excellent service. Looking forward to our Lapland Experience!

Date of experience : 15 March 2023

Firs visit to Lapland

The first time i have ever been to Lapland and enjoyed every single minute of it. This was a day trip organised by Canterbury travel and i would absolutely recommend it. 4 adults with 2 grand children 8 and 5, and it was a really magical day for them, concluding with meeting the big man himself, Santa. The flights with Jet 2 were very good, with no delays, and food (good food) on both outbound and inbound flights. Temperature was around -12 degees but you are provided with boots and snow suits to keep you well warm. Transfer from Enontekio airport to the "Playground" was via sledges pulled by snow mobile through the forests of Lapland. A magical journey by itself. Advised to book the visit to Santa as soon as we got there and were given a time slot. We found all the things to do were not overcrowded and very little waiting around, Snow mobiles, husky rides, sledging, reindeer rides and more. Dinner was in the "Canteen", where there was a bit of choice of food, so i am sure there would be something for everyone. It does get a little bit busy but we still found somewhere to sit down. Over all we all thought it had been a magical experience and well worth the money. Would definitely recommend Canterbury Travel

Excellent from enquiry to booking

From making the enquiry online to booking the whole process was quick and easy. I wasn't hounded after making the enquiry and allowed to take my time deciding, unlike another company who have called a few times and emailed me everyday which put me off. The lady I dealt with via email was so helpful and the man who I booked on the phone with sounded genuinely interested in helping and polite. Really good customer service

Date of experience : 25 September 2022

5 Day, 5* - Christmas at Luosto, Lapland

Without question this was the best holiday and family experience we've ever had. My children (12 and 8), myself and my wife got to tick off a bucket list item and got to meet Santa on his home turf. It was superb, and the organisation delivered by Canterbury travel was second to none. Yes, it is expensive, but you never feel short changed in any way. We met elves, we had fun with our arctic stars guiding us round Lapland, we got to try out snow mobiles, sledges, feed reindeers and loads loads more. It's amazing how much you actually do in the time you are there. There's even a few surprises that isn't mentioned on the operators itinerary that just adds to the magic. We wouldn't have changed a thing. Thanks Canterbury Travel. You deserve all the travel accolades that you keep getting. We'll be thinking about this holiday for a long time to come.

Date of experience : 23 December 2022

Thank you very much for your amazing review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your trip and had a magical time with us in Lapland. Best regards, Donna Canterbury Travel

Think carefully before booking with Canterbury Travel

Cabin accommodation was excellent; tour guide was excellent. However the food was absolutely disgusting - nuggets and chips, turkey twizzlers and chips, no fresh produce - the breakfast was one of the worst I have ever experienced. The food was completely sub-standard given the high cost of the package. Regarding activities, Day 1 was too long and activities were packed together. Kids were exhausted, hungry and hysterical by the end. Day 2 we had a lot of spare time. Why not spread the activities more evenly over the 2 days? Also, ALOT of time wasted playing unnecessary “snow games”. By day 2 nearly everyone in the group had had enough of playing these games in the freezing cold and wouldn’t even get off the bus when told to. Overall, I would not recommend Canterbury Travel for a Santa Experience and the majority of the parents in our group all felt the same.

Date of experience : 06 December 2022

We're sorry to hear that you were disappointed with the food and some of the tour activities. We will include your feedback at our debrief meeting with the resort managers. Please do not hesitate to contact our team if you would like to discuss this further. Regards, Donna Canterbury Travel

Magical & Fantastic Experience 🌟

The whole experience was excellent and well organised by Canterbury Travel. Our Canterbury guide Matthew on coach Y was just the best! We had issues with our Cabin and he instantly alerted the right people and we were transferred to better accommodation. His enthusiasm and entertainment on the coach was just contagious and made the experience so enjoyable. The whole experience was magical and our highlights were seeing Father Christmas, reindeer & the Husky rides. Our only disappointment was we never actually got to do snow mobile riding. We found out children had to be 140cm in height to accompany an adult on a snow mobile. They offered mini snow mobiles for kids but some of these were not working onsite and with only two available and a long queue waiting in the cold we just retreated back to the coach without riding as the cold just got the better of us! However we did enjoy the sleigh ride to and from the ski mobile track. All the staff were friendly and helpful especially hotel site manager (lady with long blonde hair whose name I forgot to take I think it’s Libby). Dispute the couple of issues mentioned the whole experience was good value and I highly recommend. We have treasured memories from this fantastic experience.

Date of experience : 03 December 2023

We had the most amazing magical 4 day…

We had the most amazing magical 4 day break in Luosto. Every tiny detail was covered to make it truly magical. We travelled with 2 teenagers 16, 15 and a 10 yr and disabled 8 year old. Canterbury travel from start to finish made sure everything was in place to cater for us. We all said it was the most incredible time and so glad we did it, bought back all the magic of Christmas. Our tour guide Chloe was exceptional and nothing was too much trouble. Our coach was B the best too, always singing. We would go back in a heartbeat. I absolutely would highly recommend Canterbury Travel and so many of our friends did to us too.

Date of experience : 08 December 2022

Thank you for your smashing review. We're delighted that your family made magical memories together. It was an absolute pleasure welcoming you to Lapland! Best regards, Donna Canterbury Travel

The booking process was very easy

The booking process was very easy. The website is easy to use and has all of the information you need. When I made an enquiry I was emailed a quote and Michelle made a courtesy call. I wasn’t in a position to book at that time. I received another email about my enquiry but didn’t feel pestered. During booking Michelle was very friendly and explained everything clearly. I would definitely recommend Canterbury Travel.

Date of experience : 04 November 2022

A truly magical experience

We chose Canterbury Travel for this once in a lifetime trip to meet Santa in Lapland for our four girls. The first day travelling wasn’t ideal. There was a flight delay, it took quite a while getting the thermal suits, and first night meal (Skandia Hotel) was pretty sub standard. That, coupled with having tired children (and adults) and a lot of hanging around, wasn’t a great omen for the rest of the trip. The staff in fairness were very responsive and helpful. However, the next day the magic began and the next 2 and a half days were magical. We were immersed in a winter wonderland of elf characters and experiences which was amazing, The reindeer sleigh ride and husky sledging were magical. Getting to meet Santa the way we did (who even had the original letters we posted from Belfast!!) was wonderful. The accomodation (in a Ruka Lodge) was warm, cosy and very spacious. And the staff ferried us around between breakfast lunch and dinner and lots of activities in between - which must have been a logistical nightmare to plan- was delivered with military precision, great professionalism and enthusiasm. The whole experience ( except for the first couple of hours) was amazing. Our guides - Mia and Grace / never stopped and were so kind and helpful. All of the elves couldn’t have done enough to make the experience so special, I was blown away!! I could not recommend Canterbury Travel and the staff more highly. When booking, I thought it was a bit expensive, but it really was well worth it. It was a very, very, very good experience for both children and adults!

Date of experience : 01 December 2023

Expertise at its best!!!…

Such an easy booking and payment system. Canterbury travel kept me fully informed throughout the process. This is my second time using Canterbury Travel for a Lapland trip. I would not hesitate to use them again. Brilliant.

Date of experience : 30 September 2022

Was due to fly tomorrow been poorly in…

Was due to fly tomorrow been poorly in hospital with high blood pressure and today after lots of asking and being told yes the gp told me I was unfit to fly rang Canterbury straight away as I’d got a medical letter to see if could transfer all the party to next year with any extra costs or cancel. They weren’t prepared to even ask me what was wrong the attitude on the phone was go or lose money. So half the party are going me and my partner will not be going and I most definitely will not be booking with them next year when I’m fit to fly and not tomorrow 22/12/22

Date of experience : 21 December 2022

Tracy, thank you for your review. You made your booking via a travel agent, and it is your agent you will have spoken to regarding this matter. It is most unfortunate that you were diagnosed as unfit to fly by your Doctor, the day before departure. As per our terms and conditions, it is not possible to transfer a booking to the following year and you should contact your travel insurance provider to see if the reason for your cancellation is covered under your policy so that you may reclaim cancellation charges.

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9 of the best Lapland tours

Get the inside scoop on the best lapland holidays, from snowy trips to see santa to full-on adventures into the high arctic wilderness.

L apland is often billed as “once in a lifetime”, but once the Arctic bug bites, you’ll be back. The pull of the north is strongest in the dark, Narnia-like depths of winter, when the snow falls thick and fast on the remote fells and forests of Finland , Norway and Lapland . And boy is it cold, with temperatures dipping as low as -30C (making the Alps feel positively tropical by comparison).

You might have come all this way to whisper your Christmas wish list in Santa’s attentive ear, but the festive sparkle of big-hitting resorts such as Rovaniemi really is just the tip of the iceberg. Stray away from the crowds on snowshoes or cross-country skis through the silent white night as northern lights flash overhead, embrace the spirit of Sami reindeer herders with legends told around a hissing fire in a lavvu tent, or feel weightless as huskies pull you on a sleigh ride across the frozen tundra.

Read on for our pick of the holiday companies that wing you straight to the heart of Lapland’s winter action.

Main photo: People on a reindeer sleigh in Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland (Getty Images)

1. Finnish Lapland in winter, Intrepid

Best for active couples Diving straight in at the Arctic deep end in Finnish Lapland, this winter classic gives you a whole gleeful week to play in the snow. You’ll kick off with a couple of culture-packed days in the capital Helsinki, before boarding the overnight Santa Claus Express to Rovaniemi, HQ of Father Christmas and his grotto-dwelling elves, in the Arctic Circle. From here, things take a dramatic turn for the wilder, as you’re whisked to a family-run guesthouse snuggled deep in remote forest — your base for the next few nights.

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The outdoor action centres around the 718m fell of Yllas, a wondrous place to ski on uncrowded slopes, with pristine and abundant powder. There are 1,001 ways to go full-on winter wonderland here and you’ll be trying out several: husky rides, northern lights gazing and hanging out with Sami reindeer herders at a 19th-century farm. There’s a free day in the mix, where you can perhaps slip on snowshoes, go ice fishing or sizzle in the sauna. The seven-night trip includes accommodation (twin share), breakfast, transport and most activities. Dates run from December to March.

Group size 1-12 Price ££

2. Lapland for adults, Untold Story

Best for luxe-loving grown-ups Who says Lapland holidays are only for kids? Upping the luxury ante, this bespoke tour of the Arctic is strictly for grown-ups, revealing a side to Finnish Lapland beyond the Santa hype. Breathing in the crystal-clear air as you make virgin tracks through ice-sculpted forests, standing in quiet wonder as the northern lights put on a private show and listening to the stories of Sami reindeer herders while huddled around an open fire in the middle of nowhere are moments you will be raving about long after you return.

Each day brings fresh adventures: reindeer and husky sleigh rides into the great white wilderness, say, or bombing across a frozen lake on a snowmobile. The final night is pure magic, as you trek into the frozen hush of the forest with Icelandic horses, dine at the Aurora Sky Restaurant and spend the night in a glass igloo on the slopes of a fell. A six-night sample itinerary includes accommodation, breakfast, private guide, activities and transport. Travel between November and March to see the region at its winter-wonderland best.

Group size private tour Price £££

untoldstorytravel.com

3. Cross-country skiing in Lapland, Exodus

Best for off-the-radar adventure Scientists have proven that the world’s cleanest air is found in the fells, high tundra and old-growth taiga forests of Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park, which unfurls in all its wild, peaceful glory close to the Norwegian border in western Finnish Lapland. In summer, Sami reindeer graze these wild lands, while in the blue-pink light of winter, the landscape is a readymade Christmas card, with trees bent heavy with snow and the northern lights blazing in night skies.

On this week-long Lapland trip, you can glide and skate along tracks at your own pace, with 190 miles of signposted trails to explore (25 miles of which are floodlit). You’ll often find yourself alone with nature, with little sign of civilisation, bar the odd kota hut where you can refuel over pulla (sticky cardamom bread) and hot blueberry juice before carving an onward path through the glistening snow. Slip on snowshoes to pad through forest and over fell and frozen lake in quiet exhilaration, returning to the village of Akaslompolo as the aurora lights up the horizon. Fancy a change? Visit the nearby Snow Village, sculpted afresh each winter, or take a cable car to float to the top of Yllas for arresting views and dinner at Finland’s highest restaurant. The eight-day tour including accommodation, use of cross-country ski trails, transfers and all breakfasts and evening meals; ski hire and tuition are available for an extra fee.

Group size 2-30 Price £

4. Lapland wilderness week, Exodus

Best for solitude seekers Shining a light on a spectacularly unsung, thrillingly forgotten corner of Swedish Lapland, this week-long escapade delivers the big wilderness it promises. At about 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle, you might expect biting cold, waist-deep snow, phenomenal displays of northern lights and off-the-charts scenery. And you’d be right. But what really grabs you is the silence. The kind of silence that only comes in a village such as Rajamaa (population: seven), plonked on a remote island in the Muonio River and gazing wistfully across the white beauty of Sweden and Finland. Hole up in a wooden cabin and let your hosts, the Malmstrom family, organise the rest.

This trip wholly embraces nature and Sami culture, with days spent dogsledding, snowshoeing, forest skiing, learning about reindeer-herding traditions, and slipping into dark nights warmed by saunas, campfires and stirring views of the aurora dancing high above. The holiday ends on an Arctic high, with a two-day forest skiing expedition over pine-stippled hill and frozen lake, and a night in a back-of-beyond logger’s cabin. As you ski back to Rajamaa, keeping an eye out for reindeer, moose and the tracks of wolverine and lynx, you might just want to press the pause button so the moment never ends. The six-night trip including accommodation with shared facilities, all meals, transport, tour leaders and equipment.

Group size 6-16 Price ££

5. A polar night, Off the Map

Best for would-be Arctic explorers Turning up the Arctic adventure several notches, this expedition-style trip to the great white wilderness of Svalbard is one you’ll never forget. At 78 degrees north, midway between Norway and the North Pole, this archipelago is a place of bone-chilling cold and soul-reviving beauty, with its dramatic icescapes, pearl-white mountains and wildlife (cue reindeer, snow-white Arctic foxes, walruses lolling on icebergs, whales and, of course, polar bears).

This trip has all the thrill of a mighty expedition, albeit with minimal effort. Kicking off with a night in Oslo, you’ll fly to Spitsbergen and spend a night at Funken Lodge on Longyearbyen, where you can jump on a snowcat for the first flickers of the aurora. A dog sled will then whisk you over the frozen tundra to the new Juva Lodge. With front-row views of ice and rock, this slickly Scandi cabin adds a blast of luxury to the Arctic experience, with comfortable beds, a fireplace and barrel sauna. It’s so remote and dark that the northern lights don’t dance here, they rave. Visit during the polar night in January, when the sun never rises, and you double your chances of seeing them. Spot wild reindeer as you fly across the snow on a husky-drawn sled back to Longyearbyen for a gourmet dinner — and perhaps another light show — before flying home. Departures are from January to May. Tours are generally four nights, including accommodation, private transfers, all activities and meals.

offthemap.travel

6. Senja — island auroras, Aurora Zone

Best for aurora hunters Everyone raves about the Lofoten Islands, but the dramatically mountainous, fjord-woven, surf-smashed island of Senja, just north, is just as ravishing yet far less busy. This trip is a rare and special one. You’ll stay in a tiny, lighthouse-topped hamlet right by the water’s edge, with optimum conditions for seeing the northern lights cascade in dark night skies. By day, a wildlife boat safari will take you out to spot seals, sea eagles and perhaps even a whale. And you’ll have plentiful chances to glimpse the northern lights — whether snowshoeing through the white wilderness or bubbling in a hot tub. Prices include four nights’ accommodation, meals, transfers, guided activities and cold-weather gear.

Group size private tour Price ££

theaurorazone.com

7. See the northern lights in Finland, Aurora Zone

Best for bucket-list Lapland The northern lights hold you in their thrall on this eight-night trip to Finnish Lapland. But a well-aimed snowball throw from Sweden, Harriniva, high above the Arctic Circle, is your woody base for the first four days. The family-run hotel is brilliantly placed for snow fun. Civilisation seems far away as you dogsled and snowmobile into the wilderness, or crunch through a frozen forest on snowshoes into Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park. Stop for a lakeside sauna and — if you dare — a heart-stopping Finnish-style dip in an avanto (ice hole) in subzero temperatures. As darkness falls, all the focus is on the heavens and the northern lights.

The lights also shimmer on thenext leg of your trip at the northern lights Village in Levi. And as you’ll be staying in a glass-roofed Aurora Cabin open to the skies, you don’t even have to get out of bed to see them. By day you can hit the village’s ski and cross-country slopes, dash through snowy woods on a reindeer sleigh and discover more about Sami culture, while by night it’s back out into the darkness in search of the aurora’s wizard-wand flashes. Prices include flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, activities, cold-weather clothing and guides.

8. Christmas sparkle, Canterbury Travel

Best for families There’s nothing like a massive dump of snow, reindeer and a visit to see Santa in his twinkly, elf-filled grotto to put you in the festive spirit — and Canterbury Travel’s Lapland trips are a kid’s Christmas dream . This three-day break packs in a heck of a lot: reindeer sleigh rides, dogsledding and the chance to sit on Santa’s knee (gift included) in a private family session with the jolly red-robed dude. Children are in heaven at Elf School and visiting Santa’s magic post office (manned by more elves).

The backdrop of frozen fells and forests is pure winter wonderland stuff, and you’ll be staying in a log cabin or lodge in the rustic ski resort of Suomu or Ruka Valley near the Arctic Circle. But what sets this Lapland trip apart is ease of access, with regional departures from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Dublin. The price is for two nights including flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, activities and cold-weather clothing.

Group size private tour Price £

canterburytravel.com

9. Icehotel break, Discover the World

Best for ice magic Nothing says Lapland like snuggling under a reindeer hide on a bed of ice in a chamber of ethereal blue, with the northern lights dancing in the chill night skies outside. The Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi in Swedish Lapland was the first of its kind when it opened in 1989 and it hasn’t lost a jot of its frosty magic. Every year, some of the world’s top ice artists are enlisted to build it from scratch using ice hauled from the Torne River, unleashing their creativity in a fantasy of glittering ice sculptures and chandeliers.

The Icehotel is your bewitching base on this three-night Arctic adventure, where you’ll get to spend a night on ice (as well as two others in warmer digs). Hot lingonberry juice and a pre-breakfast sauna fire you up for a flurry of optional activities, from ice sculpting to husky rides, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. By night the aurora will shine if you’re lucky. Departures are from November to March and it’s well worth booking your activities in advance. The standard tour is for three nights, including accommodation, breakfast, morning sauna and cold-weather clothing.

discover-the-world.com

• Staying at the Icehotel: everything you need to know

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Has anyone had any experience of daytrips to Lapland with this company? I have booked for the Friday 22nd December on the Christmas Past/Christmas Present tour from Manchester.

It looks fabulous on the website which justified the ridiculous amount we paid for 2 adults/1 child... I then discovered a website set up by what I believe to be a disgruntled traveller (or is it a competitor?) stating how bad Canterbury Travel were and not to travel with them.

This has left me extremely worried and concerned I have wasted my hard earned cash. Do I need to worry!!???

Any input would be appreciated...

I would not worry...my friend and her family travelled to lusto last year on a two day trip and had a fab time.it is an expensive trip for the day,but who cares it christmas.....

you will have a great time....

Ps forgot to mention they went with canterbury,have got a few friends that have travelled with different companys ,and they all look great.

Please do not worry about Canterbury Travel, they have been doing Lapland trips for over 40 years and are one of the best companies to travel with. I went on the Lapland Spectacular day trip last year and everything was perfect. It does seem alot of money but I think it is worth every penny. Canterbury include everything and you can go on the activities as many times as you want, also the restaurant buffet was open all day so you can keep popping in and out...non of the one visit only drill. I had my Lapland trip booked for 18 months and it certainly lived up to my expectations. Canterbury do not go for the commercialised locations so it should be very magical. I do have a little inside information as I work in a travel agency and deal with all the operators. As well as travelling with Canterbury myself, I have sold many trips to my customers and they have all been delighted.

Have a wonderful time.

We went with Canterbury Travel the year before last and it was fantastic. It was really well organised. The staff at the airport were great, helping with clothing. We went on the Extravaganza, and it was wonderful. Totally uncommercialised and magical. We were able to do husky rides, reindeer rides and snowmobile rides, The food was simple, but tasty and the children loved it. Even the gifts from Santa were great, about £10 to £15 value. I would highly recommend it and we are hoping to go with them again next year. Remember, lots of thin layers will keep you warm!

My family and i went to Lapland last Christmas,we went for 5 days with canterbury travel, and i am so pleased we paid the extra to get the best. It was everything and more besides that we had hoped for, The elves, santa huskies, Reindeer rides playing in snow, searching for, and eventually finding santa. The whoe experience was magical, from the oldest member of our group tothe youngest had the tim of their lives and are hoping to return next year. Beware of other cheaper companies it can end up being false economy, as I have heard on these other trips you end up paying for all acvtivities seperate, which result in it working our more expensive for less authentic holiday all I can say is that I thorouhgly enjoyed it Book it and have a fantastic time

Dear writer.

Make sure you wear your thermals before you get on the plane you will be rather warm, However, it will reduce the time you need to put your ski clothes on at Rovanami. Lots of thin layers are better than lots of thick layers. Take your own ski gloves, scarf, thermals, if you have them ski goggles and minimal bagage, take a bum bag for your passport and some Euros, and probably a small ruck sack to put your gloves, hat and scarf (oh and your camera with a flash) - on the plane .

The coach takes you to the clothes dept just around the corner from the airport, the snow out side this place was really thick - upto your knees, and there are, what i can only say are huge 10inch diameter tea lights in the snow and they flicker beautifully in the grey light. By the time you get dressed and come out its nearly dark - really strange feeling as its only about 12oclock lunch time.

The park is in a forest, again with lots of huge tea lights in the snow, and the trees are lit up, the light is at the bottom and shines up (greens, blues, pinks). The activites are great you can go on them as many times as you like, the ice fishing is really weird and it soon begins to freeze, the huskies are lovely, the skidoos are brilliant, you can go on your own or have a driver, and to wizzz around the forest fairly quickly with the tea lights on is ace, the horse and sledge ride is also in the wood it is so tranqual and you have a reindeer skins across your legs to keep as warm as possible, this is where we saw the Northern Lights (green), the reinder sleigh rides where very steady, i couldn't get my daughter off the tabogons as she hasn't seen snow this thick before (they make little hills for you to slege down), i must say i did go on them as well, Father Christmas was in a wooden hut in the wood he will give you all of your certificates, there is an indoor shop where you can buy postcards and stamps, small local hand made crafts - oh and indoor toilets.

The food was like a huge chicken risotto, french sticks, potato wedges, sausages, danish patry, home made soup, and you must try the Gloggi, it is warm berry juice, like a mulled wine but without the wine - i am a fan of home made food so this is right up my street. It was good food, warm and tasty and lots to go around.

If you get a little cold there are huge steel drums full of burning logs, where you can toast your hands. My advice would be to keep moving and keep the brisk walking up as it keeps you warm, if you stand around for more than 5 mins you can start to feel the cold come through your gloves, and we took real ski gloves with thermal inserts, its common sense really.

There is a fabulous smell of wood burning, all around the place.

The transfers back to the airport are very quick and we spent all of about 40mins in the airport from dropping off to boarding.

Even writing this to you it brings back such dear fabulous memories, i have wanted to do this for such a long time and am so very pleased we did it. This is only a liitle bit of the experience.

Take no notice of the negative comments, i am quite a level headed person, and i found i became a young child again, sledging, throwing snow balls all the great stuff you did when you were little, (my daughter was 10 years twhen we went).

You will have an amazing time, please don't worry at all. I loved it that much i am saving up to take my sister, mum, my daughter and her two boys for Dec 07 and i will only go with Canterbury . I have looked at other brochures, but you have to pay extra ontop of your £400 which is very expensive. Canterbury is all included.

You will have a great day, great memories, and you will sleep well on the plane on the way home !!!

There is no pleasing some people.

Canterbury Travel. Worst service I have ever received.

We are now left with bills for clothes bought for ourselves and our grandaughter (can't return them as the boxes/packaging have been thrown away), non returnable kennel fees and a very disappointed grandaughter.

Would never ever use Canterbury Travel in the future!

We also had a letter cancelling our trip for the 17/12/07. I must say the first call I made to Canterbury I spoke to a very rude lady who stated it was those alternative dates or a refund. Later that day I rang back and explained there was no way I could go on the 8/9th Dec 07. This very kind helpful lady changed us to a trip on the 21/12/07 for no extra charge.

This had been booked for 10mths, there was no way I was having a refund, thankfully for this kind Lady we didn't need to.

Just hope its all worth it......

Hi, don't have any personal experience of canterbury but our friendly local travel agent told us that they were one of the best companies around for lapland trips when we were trying to decide who to go with.

Hope you all have a fantastic time :)

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