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Rukatonttu - January
Start the New Year at Rukatonttu by enjoying experiences such as sledding through the snowy Lapland forests with husky dogs, meeting Santa Claus in person, or cruising the frozen lakes on powerful snowmobiles.
Three Kings Special in Ruka: Live the Most Magical Christmas on the Planet at Rukatonttu What if this year you didn’t just celebrate Christmas… but truly lived it? Imagine opening the door of your snow-covered cabin and feeling the icy air kiss your cheeks, while a white landscape stretches out before you like something from a fairy tale. This is how your trip to Lapland begins. This is where the magic starts with #SantaClausInLapland. Rukatonttu and Aurinkurinne, two cosy apartments nestled in the heart of Ruka Village Ski Resort, are waiting to welcome you with the untouched charm of a hidden Arctic retreat. Here, where the Arctic Circle brushes the horizon, your Christmas experience takes on a whole new meaning: sleigh rides pulled by reindeer gliding over the snow, snowmobile adventures through frost-covered forests, and the joyful barking of huskies setting the pace for your journey. And this is only the beginning.
Day 1 – Journey to the Arctic Heart: The Magical Adventure Begins Today marks the start of something extraordinary. At Madrid airport, the Catai team will welcome you and assist with all the check-in procedures before you board a flight toward a destination that’s more than just a trip: it’s the start of a true Christmas experience in Lapland. On board the direct flight to Kuusamo, you’ll enjoy a light snack while watching the map bring you closer and closer to the Arctic Circle. Upon arrival, our local guide will greet you with a warm smile and begin the transfer to Ruka, one of Finland’s hidden natural gems—just a short 30-minute drive through snow-dusted forests. Once at your accommodation, you'll receive your thermal gear, which you'll use throughout your stay in Lapland. After settling in, a hearty dinner will be served at the resort’s restaurant. The air smells of snow, and the magic is just beginning. Overnight in Ruka.
Day 2 – Secrets Beneath the Ice: Arctic Fishing and Snowshoe Adventures After a generous buffet breakfast, you’ll head into the serene white landscape for one of Lapland’s most authentic traditions: ice fishing on a frozen lake. Guided by a local fisherman, you’ll learn how to drill through the ice and try your luck at fishing for perch, pike, and lake herring. Then, strap on your snowshoes for a peaceful hike through the snowy Lapland forest — an activity beloved by both kids and adults. Light lunch included during the excursion. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to relax or hit the ski slopes for a few exhilarating runs.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCE: Snow Karting & Mini Snowmobiles Head to a snow karting circuit for an adrenaline-filled ride in special snow karts — suitable for everyone aged 14 and up. Meanwhile, younger children (ages 4–11) can enjoy riding mini snowmobiles in a safe, controlled environment. (Price: Adults €90 / Children €60) End the day with a comforting dinner at the resort. Overnight in Ruka.
Day 3 – Wild Spirit: Huskies, Reindeer and the Musher’s Dream After breakfast, get ready for a day that will live in your memory forever: the Arctic Animal Safari. In the morning, you’ll become true mushers, guiding your own sled pulled by huskies through snow-covered landscapes. These powerful dogs can pull up to seven times their weight — something their handlers will tell you more about before the ride. Light lunch included during the excursion. Next, you’ll visit a reindeer farm, where Lappish herders will share their way of life. A serene reindeer sleigh ride through the snow will follow, along with a chance to learn about the deep cultural connection between the Sámi people and their animals. The rest of the afternoon is yours. Ski without crowds on Ruka’s peaceful slopes, open from October to May, or take your children to the Rosa & Rudolf Family Park, accessible by scenic gondola from the village. Don't miss the chance to ride the gondola and enjoy panoramic views from the top of the mountain — included in your trip. Dinner at the resort. Overnight in Ruka.
Day 4 – Snowmobiles and the Moment You’ve Been Waiting For: Meet Santa Claus Today brings one of the trip’s most exciting moments: the snowmobile safari. After breakfast, you'll gear up with helmets and gloves and receive full instructions before riding these powerful machines through snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. Adults will drive in pairs, while children enjoy the ride in a sled pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. Light lunch included during the activity. In the afternoon comes the highlight for many: the Santa Claus experience. You’ll travel to Vuotunki, a village nestled beside a frozen lake where the snow turns the hills into natural toboggans — perfect for sledding fun for all ages. Inside his cozy wooden house, Santa and his elf will greet you with stories and songs. Mrs. Claus, an expert baker, will show you how to prepare her famous Christmas cookies, which you'll bake in a traditional wood-fired oven. And to end this magical visit, Santa will give each child a personal gift — a memory to last a lifetime. After saying goodbye to the Claus family, you’ll return to the resort. Dinner and overnight in Ruka.
Day 5 – Farewell, Lapland: Sauna, Snow, and Final Memories Enjoy your final breakfast buffet in this snowy wonderland. Depending on your flight time, you’ll have some free time to shop in the village, take one last walk, or indulge in a truly Finnish tradition: the sauna. Finland boasts more saunas per capita than any other country. Here, it's not just relaxation — it’s a cultural ritual. What better way to say goodbye to Lapland than with this warm, peaceful experience? At the appointed time, you’ll transfer to Kuusamo airport for your direct flight back to Madrid. A snack will be served on board. And so ends your unforgettable Lapland adventure.
A journey you won’t just remember… you’ll carry it in your heart forever This trip to Lapland with #SantaClausInLapland is not just another winter getaway. It’s a genuine Christmas experience, carefully designed for families who dream of truly living the magic. Every moment — from reindeer and husky sleigh rides, to the frozen silence of the forest and the breathtaking wonder of the Northern Lights — has been crafted to move you, amaze you, and bring you closer together. Picture your children’s faces as they bake cookies with Mrs. Claus, receive a personal gift from Santa Claus himself, or slide down snow-covered hills on a frozen lake turned winter playground. Add to that the thrill of a snowmobile safari, traditional ice fishing, the cozy charm of your snow-covered cabin, and the peaceful warmth of a true Finnish sauna… and you’ll understand why this journey goes far beyond an ordinary holiday. Ruka is a white paradise with no crowds, where each day feels like a living fairy tale. A destination where the magic of Christmas becomes real, wrapped in the most authentic Nordic traditions.
Because the greatest gift is time spent together. Because real magic happens when it’s shared as a family. And because now, more than ever, you deserve an adventure that moves you, unites you, and stays with you forever. This Christmas… live the magic in Lapland. Live it together. Live it for real. #SantaClausInLapland is already waiting for you.
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