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Early December in Rukan Salonki
This December Bank Holiday, experience the magic of Lapland like never before. From thrilling snowmobile safaris and husky sleigh rides to the unforgettable moment of meeting Santa Claus, embark on a family adventure through snowy forests, frozen lakes, and the glow of the Northern Lights. At the exclusive Rukan Salonki resort, every day becomes a unique experience of nature, tradition, and wonder.
Experience the magic of winter in the heart of Lapland—an unforgettable escape for families and adventurers longing to live unique moments beyond the Arctic Circle. This December Bank Holiday, the exclusive Rukan Salonki resort, nestled deep in Finland’s pristine wilderness, becomes the perfect setting for a true winter fairytale: ride your own snowmobile through snowy forests, glide across frozen lakes on husky or reindeer sleds, try your luck at ice fishing, and meet the real Santa Claus in his hidden Lapland home. While little ones live out their Christmas dreams, adults rediscover the joy of slowing down and connecting as a family—surrounded by northern lights, traditional Finnish saunas, and postcard-perfect scenery. Because traveling to Lapland isn’t just a holiday... it’s stepping into a world of wonder. #SantaClausInLapland – your experts in magical Lapland adventures.
Day 1 – The Adventure Begins: From Spain to the Heart of Lapland
The long-awaited journey begins with your arrival at the airport, where the Catai team will be ready to assist you with all the boarding formalities. A direct flight takes us to Kuusamo, in the far northeast of Finland, near the Arctic Circle. From the sky, the vast whiteness of Lapland begins to stir excitement. Upon arrival, your guide will accompany you on a short transfer to Rukan Salonki, a charming lodge surrounded by snowy forests and frozen lakes. In your accommodation, you’ll find thermal suits ready for your use throughout your stay. The day ends with a delicious buffet dinner at the hotel restaurant. Welcome to the magic of the north.
Day 2 – Arctic Explorers: Husky and Reindeer Adventures
After breakfast, we dive into one of the most heartwarming experiences: visiting a husky farm. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the enthusiastic barking of these loyal northern companions. After a briefing on safety and how to drive the sleds, you’ll embark on your first thrilling ride. One person drives, the other enjoys the view—and you can swap places halfway through. As the sled glides through snowy trees and frozen landscapes, you’ll quickly relax into the rhythm of the Arctic. Back at the camp, we warm up with a hot drink inside a traditional kota. Our adventure continues through icy forests and lakes to a traditional reindeer farm. There, Sami herders will guide you on a sleigh ride while sharing stories of this ancient Lapland tradition. Back at Rukan Salonki, enjoy your free time: slide down an illuminated toboggan track, try the Finnish ice carousel on the frozen lake, or glide with traditional kick-sledges. The day ends with a buffet dinner at Kultala restaurant. Overnight stay.
Day 3 – A Day of Wonder: Santa Claus, Snowshoes & Ice Fishing Today is the day children dream of: the magical encounter with Santa Claus. After breakfast, we head to a secret location near Ruka, a quaint village of cabins tucked in the snow. Children can play on the sledding hill while Santa and Mrs. Claus welcome us to bake cookies, create Christmas decorations, and share tales of Lapland life. Each child (under 11 years) will receive a special gift from Santa himself—an unforgettable moment for all. Back at Rukan Salonki, a light lunch awaits. In the afternoon, the adventure continues: we’ll trek through the snow with snowshoes to reach Lake Veskajärvi, one of the best ice fishing spots in the area. At a cozy laavu (shelter), the fishing guide teaches us how to use the small rods, bait, and the “kaira” drill to bore holes in the ice. Then it’s your turn to find the perfect spot and try your luck catching perch or pike. Warm up with a hot drink around the fire before returning to the hotel. Buffet dinner at Kultala. Overnight stay.
Day 4 – Speed and Tradition: Snowmobiles and Sami Kota Lunch
The morning begins at your own pace: enjoy breakfast, unwind in the sauna, or maybe head out for a few ski runs at Ruka Alpine Ski Resort, just 15 minutes away. Ruka is one of Finland’s top ski destinations, with slopes open from October to May, many of them illuminated for night skiing. The day picks up with another unforgettable experience. We gear up again in thermal suits and enjoy a light lunch in a traditional Sami kota—a tent shaped like a teepee, used for centuries by the indigenous Sámi people. Then, our snowmobile safari begins. After a safety briefing from the guides, adults will take turns driving (two per snowmobile), while children ride in a sled pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. It’s one of the most thrilling excursions of the entire trip. Return to the hotel and buffet dinner at Kultala. Overnight stay.
Day 5 – Farewell to the Arctic Wonderland: Saunas and Goodbye After one final buffet breakfast, enjoy some free time to experience a true Finnish tradition: the sauna. Finland is home to over three million saunas, and in Lapland, surrounded by snow, it becomes a deeply relaxing ritual not to be missed. At the scheduled time, transfer to Kuusamo Airport for your direct flight back to Spain. Light snack on board. Return home with a heart full of unforgettable memories.
A journey that goes beyond the destination… and becomes a lasting memory.
This Lapland adventure is not just a winter getaway—it’s a transformative experience created for Spanish families to live something truly extraordinary together. From husky sledding through snowy forests to the heartwarming encounter with Santa Claus; from the serenity of a sauna in the snow to the thrill of snowmobiling across endless white landscapes… each day is filled with moments that spark joy, awaken wonder, and strengthen bonds. Set in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Rukan Salonki offers an exclusive and authentic environment where nature, Sami culture, and Arctic magic come together. This itinerary has been carefully crafted to ensure that both children and adults feel part of a truly unique adventure. Because in the end, we don’t remember the days—we remember the emotions we lived together.
Discover Lapland as a family. Experience it for real.
#SantaClausInLapland – Experts in family trips to Lapland.
Why choose this trip? Because the December Bank Holiday has never felt so magical.
If you’re looking for a special destination to disconnect, reconnect with your loved ones, and create lasting memories, this journey to Ruka is the perfect choice. Traveling to Lapland during the early days of December means welcoming the Christmas season in the most enchanting place on Earth—surrounded by fresh snow, peaceful landscapes, and a festive spirit straight out of a fairy tale. Rukan Salonki is not just accommodation; it’s an exclusive retreat set deep in pristine nature, where every moment is crafted to stir emotion. Here, you’ll drive a snowmobile through Arctic forests, meet Santa Claus in his secret hideaway, try ice fishing, glide on sleds pulled by huskies or reindeer, and enjoy the warmth of Finnish saunas as snowflakes fall outside. What makes the December Bank Holiday ideal? The days are bathed in the Arctic’s soft blue light, the nights are perfect for spotting the Northern Lights, and the temperatures are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities comfortably. This is a fully organized trip—guided in Spanish, full board, thermal suits provided, and experiences tailored to every family member, young or old. Because there’s no better way to start the Christmas season… than living it in Lapland. #SantaClausInLapland – Experts in unforgettable family trips to Lapland.
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