Walking in a winter

Walking in a winter wonderland

We know, we know, you’ve probably still got your tree and decorations up from last Christmas, but while you are still in the festive spirit, now is the best time to look ahead to December 2021 and give your family a Christmas experience they will never forget.

We all dream of snow at Christmas, but the reality of this happening in the UK is pretty slim. That’s why so many families are booking festive breaks abroad where there is snow and Christmas magic abound. One very special place, where it is rumoured that a certain Father Christmas lives, is Lapland.

The Christmas Sparkle tour is based in a remote ski village called Suomu in Lapland and families can stay in either a traditional log cabin or at the Arctic Circle Hotel, which boasts Scandi chic design. The 2-night/3-day tour runs in December 2021, with departures from Birmingham, Manchester and Stansted airports.

The holiday includes a range of authentic Arctic activities, including:

Reindeer Experience

Feed the reindeer, learn about traditional Sami culture and enjoy a magical reindeer sleigh ride.

Adult & Junior Snowmobiling

Fun and excitement for all ages.

Santa’s Special Elves

Meet Santa’s most trusted helpers and prepare for mayhem, magic and giggles galore.

Sleigh Ride to Santa’s House

The excitement builds as you swish deep into the forest by reindeer sleigh.

A Gift from Santa

Santa gives your child their most special present.

Elf School Graduation Certificate

Souvenir Book.

Husky Experience

Learn a whole host of fun and fascinating facts about Arctic huskies and enjoy a traditional sleigh ride.

Reindeer Experience

Tobogganing, snowballing, snow angels and more.

Santa’s Magical Post Office

Join the elves and sort those very special letters.

Private Family Meeting with Santa

Your family’s private time with Father Christmas.

Graduation Party

Put on your dancing shoes and join your fellow Elves for a special celebration!

Day 1. The Journey Begins

On the way to Suomu, it’s time for the children to learn about how to become an elf and the essential tasks they will need to complete in order to graduate from Elf School.

In resort, we’ll stop to collect thermal snowsuits and boots, then it’s time to check into your accommodation. In this picturesque setting, you can stay in a cosy log cabin with the added bonus of a sauna and log fire or enjoy a relaxed stay at the recently upgraded Arctic Circle Hotel.

After dinner at the Hotel, meet more of the traditional Elves. Santa’s excitable helpers have been patiently waiting for you to arrive. So, let’s quiz them at length about tomorrow’s activities. What will be your special elf name?

it’s time for Elf School

Today, you must complete a full set of tasks to make the grade as one of Santa’s Special Helpers. The huskies and reindeer know that you have travelled from afar and they are determined to help you to complete your mission.

Join Wendy Wood, Santa’s chief toymaker, to experience a range of traditional Arctic activities. Every apprentice Elf must master tobogganing, learn to drive a snowmobile, experience a traditional husky sleigh ride and meet Santa’s faithful reindeer.

At the Post Office, you will also need to learn how to sort and stamp the mail that Santa receives from children all over the world. Yet, which of these traditional Arctic activities will lead you to Santa’s secret hideaway?

When you finally discover his home in Lapland, Father Christmas will be delighted to meet you and every child will be rewarded with a special gift from him.

As we return to Suomu, enjoy a classic festive dinner; followed by a Graduation Party to commemorate your achievement of becoming one of Santa’s Elves. Will Christmas Sparkle join you at the party?

Day 3. Say Farewell to Santa and the Special Elves

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning. Then join your fellow Elves outside for some final snow games before it’s time to leave Lapland.

Today, both adults and children can experience a short snowmobile drive under the supervision of our experienced guides.

After lunch, it’s time to say goodbye to the Elves and the magical world of Lapland before returning to the airport.

Suomu Resort

Lying on the Arctic Circle, Suomu is a hidden gem in Lapland. Set close to Lake Kemijarvi, you can truly be at one with nature in the beautiful frozen forests of this quiet resort, known locally as Santa’s official ski village.

In Suomu your choice of accommodation ranges from a traditional rustic log cabin set

Day 2. Let the fun begin,

among the snow-covered trees to the stylish, Scandi-inspired Arctic Circle hotel.

What can be more exciting than visiting Lapland? For in Suomu you can experience a variety of traditional Arctic activities including a romantic reindeer sleigh ride or a thrilling snowmobile safari and be captivated by Santa’s furry friends, the huskies.

Enjoy fun and games with the cheeky elves at their school on the very special Christmas Sparkle holiday to Suomu.

For a family of 4, Christmas Sparkle prices start from £3,627. For more information or to book, contact Canterbury Travel on 0800 270 0150; tour details; resort info and accommodation. www.

canterburytravel.com/laplanddestinations/suomu/