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New Year’s Eve in Ruka
This New Year, experience the magic of the Arctic Circle with #SantaClausInLapland Journey to Ruka, in the heart of Lapland, where snow-covered forests, thrilling snowmobile safaris, husky and reindeer sleigh rides, and a private visit to Santa Claus come together in an unforgettable adventure.
End the Year with Pure Magic in Ruka, Lapland – with #SantaClausInLapland What if you could celebrate New Year’s Eve in a true winter wonderland? With #SantaClausInLapland, you’ll discover Ruka, in the heart of Finnish Lapland – a place where every moment turns into a lifelong memory. This magical corner of the world invites you to live one-of-a-kind adventures that awaken the spirit. Kick things off with an unforgettable husky sled ride – feel the energy and excitement of these incredible dogs as you glide across snow-covered landscapes. Then, hop on a powerful snowmobile and journey through untouched forests and frozen lakes. But Ruka offers much more than adventure. It’s tradition, authenticity, and pristine nature all wrapped into one. A visit to a reindeer farm connects you with the indigenous Sami culture and gives you a deeper understanding of life in the Arctic. And a tranquil sleigh ride through snowy woods feels like stepping into a living fairytale. After a day filled with excitement, unwind like a local in a traditional Finnish sauna. The warmth, the steam, the contrast with the cold outdoors—it’s a true ritual of wellness that revitalizes both body and soul. As night falls, the magic continues. Walk beneath the polar sky and get ready for one of nature’s greatest spectacles: the Northern Lights. The sky comes alive with swirling green and violet lights—a breathtaking show you’ll never forget. And of course, the most heartwarming moment of the journey: your visit with Santa Claus, carefully arranged by #SantaClausInLapland. It’s a magical experience for kids and adults alike—because yes, the spirit of Christmas is very real, and it lives here.
New Year’s Adventure in Ruka, Lapland with #SantaClausInLapland An unforgettable winter experience for families and travelers seeking magic, adventure, and lifelong memories
Day 1: Spain Kuusamo – Welcome to Ruka The magic begins at the airport, where the #SantaClausInLapland and Catai team will assist you with all pre-departure formalities. We board a direct flight to Kuusamo, including an onboard snack. Upon arrival, our local guide will escort us to the charming village of Ruka (approx. 30 min drive). Once there, we’ll collect our thermal equipment to use throughout the trip and settle into our hotel. The adventure kicks off with a welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant. Overnight in Ruka.
Day 2: Ice Fishing & Snowshoeing After a hearty buffet breakfast, we begin our Arctic adventure with an unforgettable activity: ice fishing on a frozen lake. We'll trek across the snowy landscape in snowshoes, arriving at the lake where a local fisherman will teach us how to drill a hole in the ice and fish using traditional techniques. We might catch perch, pike, or lake herring! It's a fun and interactive experience for both kids and adults. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to go skiing on Ruka’s uncrowded slopes or take part in an optional excursion. Optional activity: Snow Karting & Mini Snowmobiles Head to a snow karting circuit for a thrilling ride—suitable for anyone aged 14 and up. Younger children (ages 4–11) can enjoy driving their own mini snowmobiles, a truly unforgettable experience. Evening dinner at the hotel restaurant. Overnight in Ruka.
Day 3: Arctic Safari with Huskies & Reindeer Start your day with a buffet breakfast before diving into one of the trip’s most exciting excursions. You’ll take the reins like a real musher, guiding a sled pulled by a team of huskies through a snowy wonderland. Their strength and teamwork are impressive, and the guides will share fun facts about these incredible animals. After a light lunch during the tour, head to a reindeer farm, where Lappish herders will introduce you to their lifestyle and traditions. A peaceful sleigh ride and engaging stories make this experience both educational and magical. Spend the rest of the afternoon skiing or enjoying the Rosa & Rudolf Family Park, easily accessible via scenic gondola from Ruka Village. Evening highlight: our New Year’s Eve Special Dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Ruka.
cDay 4: Snowmobile Safari & Visit to Santa Claus Fuel up with breakfast before heading out on one of the trip’s top adventures: a snowmobile safari across frozen lakes and forest trails. Adults will drive in pairs (two per snowmobile), while children travel safely in a sleigh pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. It’s an exciting way to take in Lapland’s breathtaking winter landscapes. A light lunch will be served during the excursion. In the afternoon… the most magical moment awaits! Travel to the charming village of Vuotunki, where Santa Claus lives in a cozy home by a frozen lake. Children (and adults!) can slide down natural snow toboggans before entering the warmly lit cabin, where an elf greets us and leads us to Santa himself. Enjoy stories, songs, and hands-on fun as Mrs. Claus teaches you how to bake her famous holiday cookies in a traditional wood-fired oven. Before we leave, Santa personally gives each child a special gift – a truly magical memory. Overnight in Ruka.
Day 5: Free Day & Optional Excursion to Oulanka National Park After breakfast, the day is yours to enjoy. Relax, shop, explore the ski resort, or sip a hot drink in one of the cozy Village cafés. Optional excursion: Oulanka National Park Join us for an unforgettable trip to one of Finland’s most scenic natural reserves. Discover snowy forests, frozen waterfalls, and the famous Myllykoski rapids as your guide shares fascinating tales about the local wildlife and terrain. Try snowshoeing through the park’s stunning trails and enjoy a hearty lunch at the base camp. This excursion is ideal for families and nature lovers alike. Evening dinner at the hotel. Overnight in Ruka.
Day 6: Ruka Kuusamo – Farewell Lapland After breakfast, enjoy your last free moments in Ruka—perfect for souvenir shopping or relaxing before your journey home. Transfer to Kuusamo Airport, where you’ll board your direct flight back to Spain with a light snack served onboard. End of an unforgettable experience with #SantaClausInLapland.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in a Fairytale Setting in Ruka, Lapland with #SantaClausInLapland Imagine ending the year surrounded by snow-covered landscapes, enchanted forests, and the true magic of Christmas. The Scandic Rukahovi, nestled in the heart of Ruka Village on the edge of the majestic Arctic Circle, is more than just a hotel—it’s the perfect base for a once-in-a-lifetime family adventure. From here, every day turns into a magical story. Enjoy direct access to the ski slopes, feel the thrill of snowmobile safaris through frozen lakes and snowy woods, and experience the most heartwarming moment of all: a private visit to Santa Claus at his home, exclusively organized by #SantaClausInLapland. And when you think the day can’t get any more magical, treat yourself to a cozy dinner in the hotel’s panoramic restaurant or unwind in the spa while snowflakes fall gently outside. If you’re lucky, the Northern Lights may appear above, painting the sky with their mesmerizing colors and making your New Year’s Eve truly unforgettable. This isn’t just a winter getaway. It’s a genuine Christmas adventure, full of wonder, fun, and cherished moments in the heart of nature. A unique way to end the year with your loved ones, brought to you by the experts in magical Arctic experiences: #SantaClausInLapland.
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