For many parents, few experiences compare to witnessing pure, unbridled joy on their children's faces. This past November, one British family decided to chase that magic by embarking on a pilgrimage to the Arctic Circle to visit the real Father Christmas at his home in Lapland.
A Festive Journey Begins
The adventure started right at their home, when the children, aged 10 and 14, received a mysterious parcel. Inside were Lapland-branded snoods, backpacks, an activity pack, a drinking bottle, and a personal invitation signed by Santa himself. The family, aware their teenager no longer 'believed', knew this would be a memory to cherish forever.
Their trip commenced at Gatwick Airport, where they joined a crowd of excited travellers, all easily spotted in their festive gear. They flew with Jet2, where cabin crew fuelled the excitement with games and songs. A particular highlight was a game involving passing a toilet roll from the front to the back of the aircraft without tearing it. Everyone received a snack bag containing a cheese sandwich, juice, crisps, and cake, a welcome treat after the early start.
Entering a Winter Wonderland
Upon landing in Lapland, the family was greeted by helpful elves who kitted them out in thermal suits and boots. This efficient system meant they avoided the expense and hassle of buying and transporting their own Arctic gear. They only needed to bring gloves, hats, thick socks, and scarves.
From there, they climbed into a wooden sleigh lined with reindeer skins and blankets, which was then pulled by a snowmobile through a stunning icy landscape. The magical moment of arrival came as fires and elf huts appeared in the distance, signalling Santa's village was near. The scene was breathtakingly beautiful.
After booking a slot to meet Santa and enjoying a warming berry juice, the family explored the village at their own pace. Their first activity was a short reindeer-pulled sleigh ride, with glowing lampposts creating a 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' atmosphere. Despite the early darkness, the village felt safe and enchanting, illuminated by fires and twinkling lights.
Snowy Thrills and Cosy Warmth
The children immediately headed for the sledging hill, while younger guests tried child-size snowmobiles tethered to a central pole. Adults with a driving licence could take a full-size snowmobile on a guided loop – a thrilling first-time experience for the parents, made better by having the kids ride on the back. Skidoo and toboggan rides, which sent them flying onto a thick icy lake, were also huge hits.
To warm up, the family visited a log cabin restaurant serving non-stop pasta with sauce, soup, potatoes, and pancakes with cream and jam. Hot chocolate and food were available throughout the day.
The pinnacle of the visit was their private sleigh ride across a frozen lake to Santa's log cabin. Greeted by an elf who knew their names, they found Santa to be calm, warm, and perceptive, quickly reading the children's personalities. After a chat, each child received a present: a cuddly toy reindeer embroidered with 'Lapland', a perfect keepsake.
Huskies, Ice Castles and Lasting Memories
The family saved two final activities for last: a husky sled ride and a visit to the Ice Castle. The power and enthusiasm of the huskies were astounding. The Ice Castle, a giant structure carved entirely from ice with soft coloured lighting, offered gingerbread treats and ice seating for photos.
Before departing, they visited a small gift shop for a pair of woolly socks as a memento. The day ended with a merry bus trip back to the airport, surrounded by fellow travellers who shared the same magical experience.
As they sleepily disembarked their return flight at Gatwick, the children took their parents' hands and declared, "that was the best day ever." The mission was accomplished.
Travel Fact: The lead-in price for the 'Enchanting Lapland' package for 2026 is £729 per person.
