EUROPE

()

The drop in temperature may strike fear into the hearts of many, but for Northern Light enthusiasts, this is the best season! That neon glow that lights up the night sky when temperatures drop is just one of many things to look forward to this winter. One of the best places to see the Northern Lights is in Kakslauttanen, Finland. Spend a few days crossing your fingers that the stars will align and the weather will be just right for you to experience the natural phenomenon that is Aurora Borealis.

To make the experience even more memorable, why not glide across the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh while on your Northern Light adventure? Let the Finnish horses do the work while you stare up at the sky. During the break you’ll receive a hot beverage and get the opportunity to learn about the culture of Lapland.

Perhaps the most comfortable way to see the Northern Lights is by staying in a glass igloo. At Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, you can gaze up at the night sky while snuggled in bed with your loved one(s). There are many options, including two or four-person glass igloos, or kelo-glass igloos, which are a combination of a cozy log cabin with a glass igloo attached. If you want to bring the entire clan, consider the six-bedroom luxury kelo-glass igloo. Everyone is welcome here!

For an amazing outdoor adventure, answer the call of the wild and go dog sledding. You couldn’t be in a better location as there are two husky farms in the area. Opt for a quick 15-minute ride or a full overnight adventure, depending on how long you can stand the cold. If you’d prefer a motorized transportation option, go on a snowmobile safari instead.

Since you are in the area, you might as well visit Santa. His resort is on the outskirts of Kakslauttanen and the big man himself is there year-round, spreading holly, jolly cheer. Santa’s resort is, of course, a big red cabin located just over a wooden walking bridge across a narrow river in the forest (sounds suspiciously like the way to grandmother’s house, but it’s not). After you’ve given Santa the rundown on your Christmas wishes, head to the Celebration House for a hot drink or a bite to eat. This house is the largest log building in Finland.

Pack up the mittens, boots, thermal socks, long underwear and the thickest jacket you own and get ready for a fabulous time in the great outdoors! Experience one of the world’s most beautiful natural phenomena while playing in a Finnish winter wonderland.

The best stories from EUROPE, in your inbox

Sign up to receive travel tips, local event details, restaurant reviews, recipes, community news, and more every week from Stripes Europe.

Sign Up Now