The Aurora Zone - Northern Lights Holidays Brochure by The Aurora Zone

AURORA ZONE THE

NORTHERN LIGHTS HOLIDAYS

www.theaurorazone.com

WELCOME TO THE AURORA ZONE YOUR BEST CHANCE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS The Aurora Zone is the UK’s only tour operator solely dedicated to sharing Mother Nature’s greatest wonder.

We believe that, quite simply, your best chance of seeing the spellbinding phenomenon that is the Northern Lights is with The Aurora Zone.

Nobody can ever guarantee that you will see the Northern Lights but if they are top of your bucket list, then you’re giving yourself the very best chance by starting right here.

This isn’t just because we were the first company in the UK to offer comprehensive Northern Lights holidays; nor is it because we’re the most passionate group of Aurora addicts you’re ever likely to meet; it’s because we have a close network of local Aurora hunters who share their inherent knowledge with us and this is vital to our success.

We’re not distracted by holidays in other parts of the world because our focus is purely and simply on the Aurora Zone. We research it, we visit it (regularly), and, most of all, we absolutely love the Northern Lights and want you to share our experience of nature’s ultimate spectacle. There is so much to see and do in the Aurora Zone with so many exceptional experiences to have. We offer a range of holidays to suit everyone and cater for those who are looking for a leisurely break, to those who want a truly active adventure in the Arctic. Our Northern Lights holidays run from September through to April and take in some of the most spectacular northern destinations. We offer holidays in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Greenland and Canada.

The guides you will meet on our holidays know the Aurora because they’ve grown up with it – they understand its fickle nature and the ideal conditions required and they can cautiously predict when this spectacular, multi-coloured light show might appear and astound us. Travelling with us you can rest assured that you will experience the north at its very best, with carefully planned nights of Aurora hunting combined with unforgettable daytime activities such as dog sledding and snowmobile safaris as well as cosy, welcoming accommodation.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikainen

WELCOME TO THE AURORA ZONE YOUR BEST CHANCE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS The Aurora Zone is the UK’s only tour operator solely dedicated to sharing Mother Nature’s greatest wonder.

We believe that, quite simply, your best chance of seeing the spellbinding phenomenon that is the Northern Lights is with The Aurora Zone.

Nobody can ever guarantee that you will see the Northern Lights but if they are top of your bucket list, then you’re giving yourself the very best chance by starting right here.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikainen

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION

Welcome Contents The Aurora Zone Our Unique Aurora Hunting Formula The Science of the Aurora Beyond the Aurora - Artisan Travel Family Experiences FINLAND

Nellim Muotka Muotka and Nellim Luosto Tunturi Hotel Luosto Hotel Aurora Torassieppi Harriniva Kittila Menesjärvi Inari SWEDEN

Abisko and The ICEHOTEL® Sörbyn Lodge and the Treehotel Pine Bay Lodge Brändön Lodge Tärendö Abisko, The ICEHOTEL® and Tärendö

NORWAY

2 4 6 8 10 12 14

Lofoten Sortland Alta Kirkenes Tromsø Lyngenfjord NORWAY AND FINLAND

16 17 23 29 31 35 39 45 49 51 53 54 54 62 67 69 73 75

Nellim and Kirkenes Tromsø and Kilpisjärvi SWEDEN, NORWAY AND FINLAND

The Grand Aurora Tour ICELAND

The South Shore GREENLAND

Ilullisat Kangerlussuaq CANADA

The Yukon FINANCIAL PROTECTION

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

76 77 79 82 87 88 93 94 95 97 98 101 102 103 104 107 107 108 109 110 112

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikainen

THE AURORA ZONE OUR HERITAGE AND EXPERTISE

THE COMPLETE AURORA HUNTING PACKAGE

THE AURORA ZONE DIFFERENCE

FINANCIAL PROTECTION AND PEACE OF MIND

ABOUT THE AURORA ZONE

WE INCLUDE MORE - NO HIDDEN COSTS

OUR UNIQUE AURORA HUNTING FORMULA

COMPLETE FINANCIAL PROTECTION

The Aurora Zone is part of the Artisan Travel Company, an independent, family-owned tour operator specialising in experiential holidays.

Before booking any Northern Lights holiday we strongly recommend that you carefully consider what is included in the price.

Back in 2002 we found that adventures, such as dog sledding in Finland and snowmobiling in Norway, were becoming very popular but there was one thing in particular that was captivating our clients; the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights as they are perhaps better known.

We never use ‘headline’ or ‘lead-in’ prices like so many operators, as we prefer to include as much as we can, rather than see our clients incur considerable additional costs in our destinations.

Using our unique formula for Aurora hunting, every single holiday we provide has been scientifically designed to give you the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. We choose our destinations based on their auroral records and lack of light pollution and we select local guides and experts based on their years of experience. Find out more about our unique Aurora hunting formula on page 8.

You may book with confidence as we are a fully bonded member of ABTA (ABTA number Y6261) which means that you have the benefit of ABTA’s code of conduct and your money is fully protected.

And so, our team sat down and worked out how best to show our clients the Northern Lights and, in close conjunction with our local partners, we created The Aurora Zone, a holiday company devoted to providing the very best and widest range of Northern Lights chasing holidays in the world. The Aurora Zone was the very first UK holiday company to be solely devoted to helping as many people as possible tick the Northern Lights off their wish lists. We regularly head out to our destinations to enjoy some time with our Aurora hunting partners alongside marvelling at the most spectacular lightshow on Earth and that is very much what drives us on. We will never, ever grow bored with the Aurora Borealis.

On each of our holiday pages you will see the clear outline of exactly what is included in your holiday. Unless you are taking part in one of our most leisurely options, then this will typically include incredible experiences such as dog sledding and snowmobiling along with the Northern Lights activities – these will be the real deal and not just fifteen minute taster activities. We want you to enjoy all that the Aurora Zone has to offer during the day and night. The majority of our trips will also typically include important extras such as transfers, some meals and the essential cold weather clothing. We don’t want you to have to go out and buy lots of expensive equipment that you will likely not use again, so we include all-important items such as snowsuits and snowboots for you to use throughout the activities.

LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES We include local representatives in our most popular destinations such as Nellim, Luosto, Harriniva, Torassieppi, Jeris and Muotka. In those that do not have a representative you will find designated local guides to assist with any queries or problems you may have. Travelling into the Arctic can be daunting, and the added value and assurance of a representative can’t be overstated. OUR FREE COMPARISON SERVICE At first glance, a few other operators may appear to offer cheaper trips. Do not be swayed by headline prices though, because you may very well end up paying far more in the destination. We are so confident in our product that we welcome the opportunity to compare our itineraries with others.

We also hold an Air Travel Organiser’s License issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 6865). This means that when you buy an ATOL protected holiday from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information from and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). We are also proud members of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO). Please see page 110 for full details. OUR PEACE OF MIND PROMISE We want to make sure you feel reassured from the moment you get a reply to your enquiry, right through to returning from your holiday. Therefore, we have created our Peace of Mind Promise to highlight a few things that will help you completely relax and focus on the important task of enjoying your holiday. Please see page 110 for full details.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikainen

OUR UNIQUE AURORA HUNTING FORMULA ESCAPING FROM LIGHT POLLUTION

LOCAL EXPERTISE, KNOWLEDGE AND GUIDES

THE KP INDEX AND THE AURORAL ZONE

AURORA ALERTS, INNOVATIONS AND MOBILITY

Nothing dilutes an Aurora display like artificial light pollution. So, first and foremost, our destinations are situated outside any large towns, cities or large ski resorts because, whilst you may be able to see a display from such places, it will be a pale imitation of what you would experience under darker skies.

Who would you rather have leading your Aurora hunting trip? A representative from the UK with only a few weeks’ knowledge of the destination or a guide who lives locally and chases the Aurora most nights from September to April?

The vitally important thing to know about the Northern Lights is where they appear most frequently and most spectacularly. This is determined by the strength of the geomagnetic storms that cause the lights to occur. The scale used to measure geomagnetic storms is called the Kp Index and it ranges from 0 (i.e. very little activity but still with occasional localised displays) to 9 (just huge!) and, as a basic rule of thumb, the larger the number, the further south the lights can be seen.

We were the first UK tour operator to feature a dedicated Northern Lights holiday at the Hotel Aurora in Luosto, Finland. The reason we started there was because the hotel was unique in providing an Aurora alert system.

This is something you should consider when you see cheap offers of Northern Lights holidays in the likes of Reykjavik or Tromsø because to see the Aurora, you will need to escape the sodium glare created by these populated cities. That means arranging excursions that will take you beyond the confines of the city lights and although this can be done, it can also be extremely expensive. However, the main problem with staying in a city or a large ski resort for the duration of your trip is that you won’t get dark skies when you are not on the excursions. What if the lights appear at 2am in the morning when you are already back at your hotel? This really goes to highlight the beauty of our more remote destinations. They are in rural areas where dark skies prevail, meaning that there is no need to venture miles in search of the lights, because on a clear night a display will very often be visible from just outside your accommodation (or even from the window).

We believe there is absolutely no substitute for local knowledge, and can’t understate the value we place on our carefully chosen Aurora guides. Firstly, you can’t even begin to understand the Northern Lights unless you chase and see them regularly. Many of our top guides are born and bred Laplanders or have lived in the Auroral Zone for several years and thus have gained an invaluable insight and innate anticipation into when and where the Aurora may appear. Such skill and expertise is rare and will still involve a bit of luck but our experience is that the longer and harder somebody hunts for the Northern Lights, the luckier they get! Secondly, the Northern Lights appear most frequently at a latitude of approximately 66°N and 69°N, basically, just above the Arctic Circle. The weather and local conditions here can change at very short notice and in winter the mercury regularly drops below -30°C. Whenever necessary, we ensure that you are provided with thermal clothing but if you are heading out into the Arctic it is absolutely vital that you have a guide with unparalleled knowledge of their surroundings.

However, and this is key: the most common storms are generally between Kp1 and Kp3 which restricts visibility of the Northern Lights in Scandinavia to a band which appears at a latitude of approximately 66°N and 69°N (it differs in Canada due to the oval shape of the band). This is why Auroras are only occasionally visible further south. It is worth adding that when the Kp forecast is 0, there is still the possibility that you can see the lights if you are in the heart of the Auroral Zone. Kp0 means that there is very little geomagnetic storm activity however residual geomagnetic activity may cause localised displays to occur. All of our destinations are perfectly situated in the heart of the Aurora Zone giving you the best possible chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

Since then, many other accommodation providers have adopted the same process so that Aurora alerts have become fairly commonplace. However, we are in constant communication with our suppliers about ways of making our Northern Lights holidays just that little bit different. So, while you’ll now find alerts in many destinations, on our holidays you will also find other inventive options. We offer the wonderful heated Aurora Bubbles, magnificent Arctic View Rooms with glass rooftops, Aurora Kotas and heated, enclosed sleighs with panoramic windows. One of the things we are also very good at is helping your search for the Northern Lights in a variety of ways and ensuring that we give you the mobility to help you outrun any potential cloud cover. You can hunt the lights by dog sled, snowmobile, minibus, sleigh, reindeer-pulled sled, on snowshoes, by boat...the list goes on. There are always new innovations in Aurora hunting and we will continue to work with our suppliers to make sure that we are the first people to bring them to you.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 2, 3 & 5 © Antti Pietikainen 4 © Markku Inkila

THE SCIENCE OF THE AURORA WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS?

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO TRAVEL?

HOW DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS APPEAR?

Imagine if there was only one best place to see the Aurora! Not only would it become overrun with people but you would altogether lose the unique appeal that makes seeing the Aurora such a bucket list experience.

As a naturally occurring phenomenon, the appearance of the Northern Lights is notoriously difficult to predict any further in advance than about two hours before it happens. So much is dependent on solar activity and, whilst we can estimate the number of sunspots that might occur on the sun, we can accurately predict neither when they will occur, how frequently or how weather conditions, namely cloud cover, will affect visibility. The best we can do is to provide a rough guide.

Aurora displays occur throughout the year but the light summer months render them invisible to the eye so we have to focus on the rest of the year, namely September through to April.

The Aurora Borealis originates some 93,000,000 miles away on the surface of the Sun with a massive explosion of electromagnetic matter called a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME). CME’s usually emanate from the more active areas of the Sun’s surface and they throw a stream of electronically charged solar particles known as Solar Wind into the vastness of space. It is when these particles are directed towards the Earth that we can see the Aurora three or four nights later.

The Aurora appears in both hemispheres but from an Aurora hunting point of view, only the lights in the Northern Hemisphere are a genuinely accessible option for most people. Essentially the Northern Lights are most frequently visible in Scandinavia and across areas of Greenland, Iceland and Northern Canada, in a band that stretches between 66°N and 69°N (this varies in Canada due to the Auroral curve). This band is the area just above the Arctic Circle that we call the Aurora Zone. To give yourself the best chance of witnessing the Northern Lights, you need to find somewhere in the Aurora Zone that is far removed from any significant light pollution (escaping the confines of cities such as Tromsø or Reykjavik and the night lights of larger ski resorts) and be prepared to wait because, when it comes to Aurora hunting, patience is very often a virtue that goes rewarded. All the destinations we feature are situated in the heart of the Aurora Zone, in locations far from the light pollution of densely populated cities, providing you with the best possible location to see the lights.

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikainen

THE SOLAR CYCLE - SOLAR MAXIMUM/ SOLAR MINIMUM Our Sun goes through an activity cycle that lasts approximately 11 years and sees it pass through Solar Maximum (highest solar activity) and Solar Minimum (lowest solar activity). The Northern Lights are more prevalent during Solar Maximum, the last of which occurred in June 2014. Generally speaking, the Aurora Borealis will remain very active for two or three years either side of a Solar Maximum. They do, however, remain active throughout the rest of the cycle, it is simply that the frequency or intensity can vary. There is further research to suggest that more significant solar events occur in the declining period following Solar Maximum which bodes well if you are planning a trip in the next couple of years.

We always ask our clients to consider what else they would like from their holiday, as different experiences can occur at different times. For example, the autumn months provide warmer conditions for Aurora hunting, while the winter months bring with them a host of snow activities to take part in. THE BEST TIME OF DAY? First and foremost, to see the Northern Lights, the sky must be dark. This immediately rules out daylight hours. Once darkness falls, the Aurora can be visible at any time of day. Nevertheless, the optimum time seems to be around 9.30pm to 1am and that is when we concentrate the majority of our Northern Lights hunts. The secret to seeing the Aurora Borealis is patience. If your snowmobile or minibus or snowshoe search is unsuccessful then most of our accommodation is situated in remote locations, far away from light pollution therefore it is very often the people who brave the cold night, rather than those who sneak off to a warm bed, who have a tale to tell at breakfast.

As the Solar Wind approaches it causes a distortion in our magnetic field and, whilst most particles are deflected away from us, some escape into our atmosphere around the magnetic poles. At this point, the “escaped” particles collide with the atoms and molecules that form the gases in our atmosphere and cause them to become “excited”. This is a complicated business but essentially, when an “excited” atom or molecule begins to calm or return to its original state, it emits photon energy in the form of light. It is the emissions of these photons on a huge scale that causes the Aurora to appear in our night sky. Please see diagram on page 11.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits Sun image credit: © NASA/SDO Earth image credit: © NASA/ESA Diagram Copyright: © The Artisan Travel Co. Ltd

BEYOND THE AURORA – ARTISAN TRAVEL THE NORTH, CANADA AND THE MEDITERRANEAN

AFTER THE AURORA, SUMMER IN THE ARCTIC

THE STUNNING MEDITERRANEAN

WINTER MULTI-ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS

So many of our clients return home from their Aurora Zone holiday desperate to experience the same style of holiday elsewhere in the world and so, following on from numerous client requests, and after many years of research, we are very proud to have developed The Aurora Zone’s sister company: Artisan Travel.

To see the Northern Lights you need dark skies; from April until August the Aurora may be blazing across the Arctic firmament but the skies are just too light to see the show.

At Artisan Travel we also offer a range of holidays across some beautiful areas of the Mediterranean. Often going beyond the major resorts, and usually travelling out of peak times, we enable you to truly experience these special regions with destinations across Greece, Turkey, Malta, Corsica and Portugal. Our itineraries include a range of experiences such as cycling around the beautiful Peloponnese; going off-the-beaten-track on a self-guided walking tour on Corsica; an active week on the Maltese Island of Gozo or setting your own pace on the stunning Alentejo Coast visiting authentic villages and stunning beaches.

From sleeping in a cosy log cabin with its own sauna and wood burner to meeting a local reindeer herder, Artisan Travel offers an extensive range of winter experiences across Northern Scandinavia and North America that really encapsulate the very best of winter. There’s a huge range of activities to try including dog sledding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, reindeer safaris, cross-country skiing, Aurora hunting, snowmobiling, wildlife watching and many more.

Artisan Travel provides year-round, enriching and handcrafted itineraries across Northern Scandinavia, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, Alaska and the Mediterranean. THE ARTISAN DIFFERENCE During our years in the travel industry we have noticed that our favourite moments often occur when we are with our local partners but not specifically looking at the tourism infrastructure. As a result, when researching Artisan’s holidays we ask our local partners to show us the main attractions but also the places that they frequent in their daily lives. We ask what they would see and do if they were visitors in their own country, because we want our clients to experience their country beyond the veneer of its most visited tourism sites. It is this careful research of our destinations that enables us to create itineraries that the locals believe best reflects their region. That is what makes Artisan Travel that little bit different. It’s a simple formula but it is one that helps our clients tick off those bucket list items time after time.

Having said that, there is so much to see and do in Northern Scandinavia that 24 hours of daylight is actually very welcome. From the fjords of Norway to the mountains of Sweden, from the lakes of Finland to the geysers of Iceland, these landscapes are quite simply breathtaking when bathed in daylight. At Artisan Travel we offer a spectacular range of holidays for people who want to see the North during the summer months. These include Midnight Sun photography and bear watching holidays in Finland, tours of Iceland’s volcanoes, glaciers and lava fields, self-drive holidays through the dramatic scenery and majestic fjords of Norway and the summer delights of Gothenburg and Copenhagen as well as the more remote fishing villages and vineyards in Sweden. ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME ALASKA AND CANADA We know many of our clients are looking for once-in-a-lifetime experiences and from our own travels in Alaska and Canada we know just how special these regions are. From navigating the mighty Yukon River by canoe to trekking through the breathtaking Tombstone Territorial Park, from witnessing wild polar bears in Manitoba to taking an awe-inspiring scenic rail journey through Alaska, our travel experts are on hand to help you choose the perfect experience for you!

WONDERFUL WILDLIFE On many of the holidays Artisan Travel offer, you will get the chance to encounter some exceptional wildlife as part of the varied itineraries. We do, however, offer a range of holidays where the primary focus is on showing you some of the spectacular wildlife that the region has to offer. During our holidays in Manitoba you can walk in the land of the polar bear (safely of course!) and swim with beluga whales in their natural habitat; in Alaska you can take to the waters in search of orcas and view the awe-inspiring grizzly bears as they go about their business; whilst in Europe, you can listen to wolves howl in Sweden and see beavers at their dams. The natural world has so much to offer and at Artisan Travel we make sure you see it at its best.

HUSKY AND SNOWMOBILE EXPEDITIONS Many people will try dog sledding or snowmobiling during one of our Aurora Zone holidays and become hooked, immediately wanting to look for the chance to try their favourite activity for longer. Artisan Travel have an extensive range of overnight wilderness snowmobile or husky safaris ranging from two to seven days in duration. These can be real adventures and so our travel experts will be on hand to help you choose the right experience. PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Whilst an Artisan Travel holiday provides you with what we believe to be the best possible itinerary in a region, we know that everyone is different and therefore almost all of our holidays include a selection of ‘personalise’ options where guests can tailor their holiday or their accommodation options to create their perfect holidays. Visit www.artisantravel.co.uk or call 01670 785 085 for more information.

To To book book call call 01670 01670 785 785 077 085

Find Find out out more more at at www.theaurorazone.com www.artisantravel.co.uk

15 15

Photo Credits 1 © Hamn I Senja &Photo Northern Norway Credits 2 © Kari Anne Fredriksen Northern Norway 1,3,4 © and Antti Pietikäinen © Northern Visit Finland 3 © Visit Finland 2 4© Norway

FAMILY EXPERIENCES FAMILY HOLIDAYS WITH ACTIVITIES ABROAD

FAMILY SUMMER ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS

While The Aurora Zone caters solely to those aged 15 and over, we know how magical a family holiday to Lapland can be. Therefore we developed Activities Abroad; a travel company offering family holidays in some of the most brilliantly fun and beautifully unspoilt areas of the world. Many of us are parents ourselves and we knew exactly the kinds of holidays we wanted; we found them, we collected them and we still enjoy them, year after year.

Activities Abroad also offer an extensive range of family summer holidays spanning across the UK, Europe and some spectacular long-haul destinations. From white-water rafting in Croatia, to diving in Borneo, our holidays provide copious helpings of exciting, adventurous activities, sprinkled with time to fully enjoy your location.

FAMILY SNOW HOLIDAYS Our snow holidays come in all shapes and sizes but essentially, we have three types of holiday that provide something for families of all ages. NORTHERN LIGHTS HOLIDAYS During the day, you’ll experience the very best winter activities and in the evenings you’ll be out with our expert guides hunting down the Northern Lights. MULTI-ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS From hours of snow-fun and encounters with reindeer and huskies, to snuggling up in front of the fire in your own family log cabin, our winter trips are unique, providing true once-in-a-lifetime experiences. FATHER CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

Everything we offer is dictated by the natural surroundings, whether you are in the mountains, by the sea or next to a peaceful lake. These natural playgrounds provide the perfect settings for a huge number of activities which you can enjoy as a family. REAL FAMILY HOLIDAYS Activities Abroad holidays are real family holidays. We don’t offer kids’ clubs because we want you to spend your precious holiday time together as a family. Okay, mum can drop out of the whitewater rafting or dad can skip the rock climbing but, in the main, you’ll be sharing these thrilling experiences ‘en-famille’ and talking about them long after you have returned home.

Whether you’re looking for a sun or snow holiday, if your children are young or in their teens, every holiday is geared towards keeping you active, keeping you safe and keeping you smiling as a family. To speak to one of our family travel experts call 01670 789 991 or visit www.activitiesabroad.com for more information.

We’ve created a small range of exclusive Father Christmas holidays. Unhurried and in small groups, our holidays combine the magic of the festive season, Father Christmas and his elves, and fantastic winter activities for all the family.

To To book book call call 01670 01670 785 789 077 991

Find Find out out more more at at www.theaurorazone.com www.activitiesabroad.com

Photo Credits 1 © Antti Pietikainen 2 © www.PHOTOSET.es 3, 5, 6 © Ville Heimonen 4 © Holiday Village Gulo Gulo

FINNISH LAPLAND NELLIM WILDERNESS HOTEL

FINLAND

Nellim is where four of us here at The Aurora Zone first saw, and marvelled at, the Northern Lights. Not surprisingly, it holds a big, big place in our hearts. Indeed, our boss never seems to tire of reminding us that he has visited Nellim eight times and has seen the Aurora Borealis on every occasion! 2

There are few places on the planet which can boast legendary status in Northern Lights circles, but Nellim is one such place. Nellim’s location is absolutely perfect for Aurora hunters, delivering truly stunning displays time and time again. Nellim Wilderness Hotel is owned by a lovely couple called Jouko and Mari. They pride themselves on the service they deliver. Nellim offers a range of accommodation options with hotel rooms, apartments, suites and cosy cabins to choose from.

The hotel is based around a central courtyard. If you are staying in one of the apartments, suites, cabins or the annexed bedrooms, it’s a very short walk to the main building which houses the restaurant, lounge and bar area. The restaurant serves a buffet-style evening menu of hearty food which includes many delicious local ingredients.

AURORA BUBBLES These Perspex-domed rooms are situated a short walk from the hotel and offer you the chance to hopefully witness the Northern Lights from the comfort of bed. Light pollution is minimal at Nellim and the incredible Aurora Bubbles provide unbeatable views of the dark Arctic sky. 4

SARMI WILDERNESS LODGE Nellim is continually innovating and now offer guests the chance to spend a night at Sarmi Wilderness Lodge. This remote lodge is deep in the wilds and offers a wilderness experience without guests compromising on too many home comforts. Full details can be found online.

TAILOR MADE In addition to our varied range of itineraries at Nellim we also offer tailor made holidays. Please search our website for holiday code 2907.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 2 & 5 © Markku Inkila 3 & 4 © Era Hotelli Nellim

NELLIM - AUTUMN LIGHTS OVER LAKE INARI Holiday code: 2902

October and November tend to bring the first snow of winter, draping a pristine white carpet over the expansive Arctic landscapes. Whatever the weather, some unforgettable experiences await in this beautiful part of the world. This itinerary has been designed to allow you to explore the wilds of Lapland, meet the local wildlife and gain an understanding of the culture and traditions of this region. Of course we also want to maximise your chances of seeing the Northern Lights at their spellbinding best. Our expert guides use their local knowledge and understanding to ensure that, should conditions be favourable, you will be treated to an Aurora display. With the welcoming warmth of Nellim Wilderness Hotel as your base, you also have the chance to spend the night (supplement applies) in a dedicated Aurora accommodation. Nellim’s famous Aurora Bubbles and the wonderful Sarmi Wilderness Camp are both fantastic upgrade options.

NELLIM - NORTHERN LIGHTS OVER LAKE INARI Holiday code: 2903

The remote location of the tiny village of Nellim ensures not only an incredibly scenic wilderness setting for your trip, but also fantastic Aurora potential. Whilst the Aurora excursions are undoubtedly a highlight of this holiday, the days are also filled with an array of thrilling activities that encapsulate this remarkable region. During this holiday you will drive a snowmobile across the wilds to enjoy a morning with a reindeer herder and you will take control of a team of eager dogs during a 17km husky safari. Ice fishing and snowshoeing trips complete this active holiday’s daytime offerings. Your Aurora hunting schedule includes two visits to Nellim’s famed Aurora Camps, chosen for their exceptional Northern Lights viewing potential, as well as a thrilling Aurora snowmobile safari. We have created a very special New Year edition of this holiday. For details please search for holiday code 2908 on our website.

Duration: Group size (approx): Pace: Suitable for:

4 nights Maximum 16 people Balanced 15 years and older

FINLAND

All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: Meals: Also included:

4 nights’ hotel 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below

Day 1: Flights, transfer and welcome Day 2: Nellim introduction, Northern Lights presentation, Aurora stake-out Day 3: Sámi Siida Museum and Aurora Camp Day 4: Nature hike and minibus Aurora hunt Day 5: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change. Should the winter snow arrive early then the activities will be adapted to suit the conditions.

Prices from: £1250 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2902

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and older All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: Meals: Also included:

4 nights’ hotel 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below

Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4:

Flights, transfer and welcome Snowshoes and Aurora Camp Husky safari and Aurora snowmobile safari Snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm, ice fishing, Aurora Camp Day 5: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1385 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2903

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Markku Inkila

NELLIM - AURORA IN THE WILD Holiday code: 2904

This action-packed, week-long holiday at Nellim is a perennial bestseller and with good reason. It is exceedingly hard to pick the highlights of this holiday but our guests’ favourites include the wilderness snowmobile safari and the chance to take charge of a team of huskies during a thrilling safari. For those interested in Lapland’s Sámi people, a visit to a traditional reindeer herder will be a real treat, as you witness traditional techniques passed down through the generations. Nellim provides exceptional Aurora potential and this holiday maximises your viewing opportunities with four dedicated evening activities. On your free evenings you can gather on the small frozen lake at the rear of the hotel and watch the sky; this is the spot where four of our team first saw the Northern Lights. We also offer Christmas and New Year editions of this holiday with some additional festivities. Please search for holiday codes 2906 and 2905 on our website.

NELLIM - AURORA QUEST Holiday code: 2901

Our Aurora Quest offers a wonderful combination of relaxed daytime activities and evening Aurora hunts, all set in one of the most picturesque locations in Finland. As our gentlest holiday option at Nellim, it is the ideal choice if you want a wilderness setting and Northern Lights activities, but with a more laid-back agenda. With evenings dedicated to Aurora hunting and days filled with a varied array of gentle activities, you will get to experience this remarkable region at its best. A tour of Nellim via snowmobile-pulled sleigh will showcase some of the area’s highlights whilst an unforgettable husky safari adds some excitement. Guests will also gain an interesting insight into the culture and history of this region at the famous Sámi Siida Museum in Inari. For our special New Year edition of this holiday please search for holiday code 4001 on our website.

Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

FINLAND

Accommodation: 7 nights’ hotel Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Flights, transfer and welcome Day 2: Cross-country skiing, Aurora workshop, Aurora snowshoe Day 3: Wilderness snowmobile safari Day 4: Snowshoe trek, Aurora camp or Sarmi Wilderness Lodge Day 5: Time at leisure Day 6: Reindeer farm and Aurora snowmobiling Day 7: Husky safari and Aurora hunting by minibus Day 8: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1815 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2904

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Flights, transfer and welcome Aurora workshop, Nellim by snowmobile-pulled sleigh and Aurora hunting by minibus Sámi Siida Museum, snowshoes and Aurora Camp Husky safari and Aurora Camp Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1485 per person Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2901

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Markku Inkila

FINNISH LAPLAND MUOTKA WILDERNESS LODGE

FINLAND

Muotka Wilderness Lodge nestles amongst the fells and forests of North West Lapland in an idyllic setting. One of the great attractions of Muotka is its remote location and you’ll soon see what we mean as you follow the narrow and snowy road deep into the snow-covered forest. This is the ideal environment for a variety of winter activities including all the favourites, such as dog sledding and snowmobiling. We have a variety of holidays available here, meaning you can explore at a pace to suit you. This 26 bedroom lodge delivers a traditionally-styled, tranquil setting in which to totally relax or actively explore. The en-suite bedrooms are all decorated and furnished with a classic Scandinavian theme, providing a cosy retreat from the winter outside. Your meals are taken in the main restaurant/lounge which also doubles up as a convenient place for guests to discuss the day’s (and night’s) activities. This is usually done whilst enjoying a mug of hot chocolate. Muotka is owned by our friends Jouko and Mari who also operate Nellim Wilderness Hotel. This wonderful pair are always thinking of the next Aurora innovation for guests and so, alongside an Aurora Bubble, they have also designed some spectacular Aurora Kota accommodation.

AURORA BUBBLE The heated Aurora Bubble at Muotka has a double bed which looks out through a clear, dome-shaped roof onto the Arctic firmament. A night in an Aurora Bubble is a remarkable experience, doubly so, when the Aurora Borealis is dancing above.

AURORA KOTAS The spectacular Aurora Kotas are a new innovation and unique in their design. They offer cabin-style accommodation with a glass pyramid roof above the bed, providing outstanding views of the night sky. Guests can spend just one night in these remarkable rooms or upgrade for their entire stay.

TAILOR MADE In addition to our varied range of itineraries at Muotka, we also offer a tailor made holiday here. Please search our website for holiday code 20005.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Markku Inkila

MUOTKA - FELLSIDE AURORAS

FINLAND

Holiday code: 20001

Muotka Wilderness Lodge lies deep in the magical forests of Northern Lapland. The activities included in this balanced holiday are more relaxed than during other holidays at Muotka, but still showcase all the key experiences. Your days will be filled with one Finnish experience after another, and your nights will be spent chasing the phenomenon that is the Aurora Borealis. This holiday includes a gentle snowshoe in stunning surroundings, a visit to the fascinating Sámi Siida Museum and a local reindeer farm, as well as an unforgettable husky safari. All of the activities take you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and to a Narnia-like winter wonderland. Your dedicated Aurora activities include a workshop on the basics of Aurora science, a snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride under the Arctic sky and two evenings of Aurora hunts using a minibus and your guide’s expert knowledge to help you track down a display. 2

For details of our New Year departure, please search our website for holiday code 20009.

MUOTKA - NORTHERN LIGHTS ADVENTURE Holiday code: 20003

Muotkan Maja Wilderness Lodge (to give its full title) is hidden beyond snowy tracks and dense forests, to provide one of the most idyllic spots we have to offer. Our Muotka Northern Lights Adventure is designed to allow you to enjoy the surroundings in a variety of thrilling ways. This is a fast-paced holiday, incorporating all our most popular activities in one fabulous package. Even when searching for the Aurora, we’ve made the ‘getting there’ bit all part of the fun... why walk or drive when you can snowmobile or snowshoe? This holiday includes all the key activities that this region has to offer, both during the day and night. To enhance the excitement even further, why not add a night in a heated Aurora Bubble or upgrade to an Aurora Kota? With a bit of luck you’ll be watching the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of your warm bed. For detail of our New Year departure please search our website for holiday code 20007 1

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and older All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

4 nights’ hotel 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below

Flights, transfer and welcome Aurora workshop, gentle snowshoe hike and Northern Lights hunt by minibus Sámi Siida Museum, reindeer farm and snowmobile-pulled Aurora sleigh ride Husky safari and Aurora hunt by minibus Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1395 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 20001

4 nights’ hotel 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below

Flights, transfer and welcome Aurora workshop, snowshoe trek, cross-country skiing lesson and Aurora sleigh ride Snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm and Northern Lights snowshoe trek Husky safari and Aurora snowmobile safari Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1435 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 20003

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 2 © Markku Inkila 3 © Jouko Lappalainen

MUOTKA - SEARCH FOR THE NORTHERN LIGHT

FINLAND

Holiday code: 20004

Muotka Wilderness Lodge, its Aurora Kotas and Bubbles nestle in a rustic, magical, snowy landscape which delights the senses.

This Northern Lights holiday is a gift for all Aurora hunters. With a well-planned balance of activities and relaxation, these surroundings lend themselves to any pace of life. You can snowshoe or dog sled during the day to hopefully see reindeer in their natural habitat; and you can relax in the sauna before heading out to hunt for the Aurora Borealis against the dark Arctic sky. Along with the Aurora Bubble and Aurora Kota options, this holiday also offers guests the chance to spend the night at the unique Sarmi Wilderness Lodge deep in the wilderness. Full details can be found on our website. We also operate special Christmas and New Year versions of this holiday that really make the most of the festive period. Please see holiday codes 20002 and 20006 on our website for details.

Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 7 nights’ hotel Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7: Day 8:

Flights, transfer and welcome Aurora workshop, cross-country skiing and Aurora hunt by snowmobile-pulled sleigh Snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm and Northern Lights snowshoeing Sámi Siida Museum and Aurora hunt by minibus Snowshoe safari and optional stay at Sarmi Lodge Free day Husky safari and Aurora hunt by snowmobile sleigh Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1825 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 20004 1

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 3, 4 © Markku Inkila 2 © Jouko Lappalainen

MUOTKA AND NELLIM - THE GREAT AURORA ADVENTURE

FINLAND

Holiday code: 20008

Nellim and Muotka are two of our most popular destinations. Both offer excellent hospitality, cosy accommodation and exceptional Northern Lights potential. Each also offers its own unique highlights and this holiday beautifully combines them all. Starting at Muotka, you will enjoy the total seclusion of the lodge. You will explore the landscape on snowshoes and cross-country skis, encounter reindeer and enjoy snowmobiling. Expert guides will lead Aurora hunts as you travel to Aurora Camps and search on snowshoes. After four nights you leave for Nellim, stopping off to learn about Sámi culture en route. At Nellim, you will enjoy a wilderness snowmobile adventure near the Russian border and the all-important husky safari. With Aurora hunting in the evenings you will really maximise your time here. You can of course also enjoy the Aurora Kotas at Muotka or the Bubbles at Nellim for an unforgettable addition to your holiday. Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and older All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ at Muotka and 3 nights’ at Nellim in hotel rooms Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7: Day 8:

Flights, transfers and welcome Aurora workshop, snowshoeing and Aurora Camp Snowmobile to reindeer farm, Aurora snowshoe Cross-country skiing Sámi Siida Museum Snowmobile safari, Aurora hunt by sleigh Husky safari Depart or extend your stay

Prices from: £1925 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 20008

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Markku Inkila

FINNISH LAPLAND LUOSTO TUNTURI HOTEL

FINLAND

Luosto is a wonderful little ski resort which in summer has a small community of permanent residents. In winter, it is a bit livelier but the village blends unobtrusively with its natural surroundings and offers something for everyone.

Luosto has all the winter activities such as dog sledding and snowmobiling but with the additional draw of downhill ski pistes, more leisurely options and a variety of wonderful accommodation.

LUOSTO TUNTURI HOTEL AND SPA The Luosto Tunturi Hotel and Amethyst Spa is ideal if you want a choice of both indoor and outdoor activities. If you want some time out of the snow then the pool and spa are great places to relax while waiting for the Aurora hunting to commence.

The en-suite superior bedrooms, which we use for our guests, are spacious and offer the all-important tea and coffee facilities (a rarity in Finland). For a real treat, there are also one bedroom Tunturi Suites and two bedroom Amethyst Suites, which all come with a private sauna and a living area. Guests can upgrade to these for an additional supplement. Situated just behind the hotel is a small lake, which is an ideal spot for watching the Northern Lights. Here guests will find a walking trail (lovely by day or night) with shelters where you can make a fire and keep warm whilst waiting for the Northern Lights to come out and play. Guests will also have an Aurora alert at their disposal – an excellent Aurora hunting aid.

LUOSTO TUNTURI LOG CABINS The Tunturi Log Cabins are situated in the snowy woods just a few minutes walk from the hotel where you’ll enjoy all of your meals. Each cabin is effectively open plan with a lounge/dining area, a kitchenette (useful if you want to take advantage of the local mini-market) and two end-to-end double beds with a bunk above. In true Lapland tradition the cabins also offer the attractions of a log burning stove and a private sauna. The cosy cabins provide the ideal accommodation for those looking for their own private ‘home from home’ to enjoy during their stay. We think they are especially suited to couples as all guests sleep in one room.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 © Graham Greenway 2, 4 © Hotel Luosto Tunturi and Amethyst Spa 3 © Inka Charters

LUOSTO TUNTURI - NORTHERN LIGHTS AT LEISURE

FINLAND

Holiday code: 2507

We know that not everyone wants to race around on snowmobiles in search of the Aurora, so our Northern Lights at Leisure holiday caters for those who’d rather slow the pace right down. 2

We include the all-important Northern Lights activities in the evening, but your days are free so that you can set the pace of your holiday. If you do want to be more active then there are plentiful activities available in Luosto, but we recommend booking them in advance. Please speak to one of our Travel Experts if you are interested in the options which can be included. This popular holiday includes an Aurora presentation, a guided Aurora walk around the Northern Lights trail, an evening of astronomy and a truly memorable Northern Lights dinner. This itinerary is ideal for those who want leisurely Northern Lights hunts and the chance to tailor their own holiday in a stunning location.

Our New Year itinerary can be found online using holiday code 2508.

LUOSTO TUNTURI - SEARCHING FOR THE AURORA BOREALIS Holiday code: 2503

The Luosto Tunturi Hotel and its surrounding cabins are set amid a beautiful fell and forest landscape in the heart of the Aurora Zone. Our Searching for the Aurora Borealis holiday is based in this tiny ski resort and offers a schedule of balanced activities together with time to simply relax. From husky sleighs and snowmobiles, to spas and indoor pools; this holiday offers a great mix. You can mine for amethysts, enjoy dinner in a traditional teepee, drive huskies through the snow and track the Aurora across the night sky. This small community combines a local feel with a delightful holiday setting, to give you the full experience of Lapland. It’s amazing how many of our clients go on this holiday saying that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and find themselves returning the next winter for more! For our Christmas and New Year departures, please search online for holiday codes 2509 and 2510.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Relaxed Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel or cabin Meals: Half board Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Flights, transfer and welcome The Arctic sky Northern Lights presentation and trail Northern Lights dinner at Aarnikota Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1315 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2507

Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 7 nights’ hotel or cabin Meals: Half board Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7: Day 8:

Flights, transfers and welcome Husky safari Introduction to snowmobiling Leisurely snowshoe hike and visit to Aurora Kota Reindeer safari and kota dinner Visit to the amethyst mine and Aurora snowshoe Free day and Aurora hunt via snowmobile sleigh Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1525 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2503

Photo credits 1, 2 ,3 © Snowgames 4 © Credit Antti Pietikäinen & Visit Finland 5 © Debbie Smith

FINNISH LAPLAND LUOSTO HOTEL AURORA

FINLAND

Luosto is a wonderful place, effortlessly balancing entertainment and adventure with the serenity you’d expect from this part of the world. Hotel Aurora (formerly known as Aurora Chalet) is one of our most popular destinations. 2

With only 30 bedrooms, this hotel provides a cosy and friendly atmosphere, whilst the private sauna in each of the bedrooms allows every guest to experience a true sense of Lapland. All rooms also come with en-suite facilities, television and tea and coffee making facilities. You can also choose to upgrade to a room with a wood burning stove (for added cosiness – although all rooms are very well heated), a superior room which has a separate seating area or one of the suites which offer all of the above. Whichever you choose, we recommend booking early as this is such a popular place. The restaurant at Hotel Aurora is among the best in Finnish Lapland, serving delicious locally-sourced cuisine. Your evening meals consist of a three-course set menu cooked by the accomplished chefs using many local ingredients. We’ve been featuring Hotel Aurora for many, many years and, judging by our clients’ feedback, it is quite simply one of the most comfortable and welcoming places to stay anywhere above the Arctic Circle.

ARCTIC VIEW ROOMS The ten spectacular Arctic View Rooms at the hotel are a fabulous addition to any holiday. The rooms are situated a short walk from the main hotel building and all of them have excellent views of the night sky due to glass walls and rooftops. The rooms are all beautifully furnished and offer a high level of comfort, a great chance to view the night sky and of course the chance to see the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. Guests can choose to upgrade for a single night or for their entire stay. Please see website for details.

TAILOR MADE Alongside our popular itineraries, we also offer tailor made holidays at Hotel Aurora so that you can design your own Aurora trip. Full details can be found on our website. Please search for holiday code 2511.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All images © Hotel Aurora

HOTEL AURORA - SEARCHING FOR THE AUTUMN LIGHTS

FINLAND

Holiday code: 2502

Hotel Aurora has 30 traditionally-styled bedrooms, each with its own sauna. The restaurant serves food provided by the local lakes and forests to top off this authentic Finnish getaway. Searching for the Aurora in Autumn allows you to experience Lapland in different ways to our winter holidays. In the absence of snow to sled on, you can hike with huskies up into the forests and around the lakes, you can visit reindeer in their natural habitat and learn about their importance here in Lapland, you can mine your very own amethyst and you can hunt each night for the wondrous Northern Lights. This pioneering hotel was the first to introduce the Aurora alert. It operates via the Sodanklya Geophysical Observatory, less than 30km away, which alerts the hotel and, if an auroral display is likely, then your alert will be triggered. The Aurora alerts are never a guarantee and you do need to keep your eyes on the sky as well. 2

HOTEL AURORA - SEARCHING FOR THE AURORA BOREALIS Holiday code: 2501

Hotel Aurora is located in the heart of Lapland and nestles at the base of the fells surrounding Luosto. Surrounded by lakes, forest and rivers, but with the amenities of a small ski resort, it’s the perfect place to combine relaxation and balanced activities. 3

Our seven night holiday is long enough to allow our guests the time to enjoy all that Luosto has to offer, whilst also providing plenty of time to relax. The pace of the activities is fairly gentle but the excitement still flows – you’ll learn how to ride a snowmobile, snowshoe, drive your own team of huskies, see traditional ways of life such as reindeer herding and, of course, search for the Aurora Borealis. You’ll even dig for your own amethyst during a visit to the famous mine. To top off your stay we highly recommend upgrading to one of the spectacular Arctic View Rooms at the hotel for an unforgettable night under the Arctic firmament. See website for details.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel Meals: Half board Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Flights, transfer and welcome Amethyst mine and Aurora hike Hike with huskies and Aurora Kota Reindeer farm and Aurora hunt by minibus Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change. Should the winter snows arrive early then the activities will be adapted to suit the conditions locally.

Prices from: £1070 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2502

Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 7 nights’ hotel Meals: Half board Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7: Day 8

Flights, transfer and welcome Husky safari Introduction to snowmobiling Leisurely snowshoe hike and Aurora Kota Reindeer farm and kota dinner Secrets of the amethyst and Aurora snowshoe Free day and Aurora hunt via snowmobile sleigh Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1735 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2501

Photo Credits 1, 2 & 4 © Snowgames 3 © Markku Inkila & Visit Finland

FINNISH LAPLAND TORASSIEPPI REINDEER FARM

FINLAND

Torassieppi Reindeer Farm is a step into the past; the main building dates back to 1847 and the rural setting makes you feel as though little time has passed since this farm was first established. The accommodation is a variety of twin rooms and winter cottages for two to six people situated in a range of buildings in the surrounding forest; all rooms are traditionally decorated to add to the winter wonderland feel. The cottages are made extra cosy with wood burning fires and drying cupboards. The largest cottages even boast their own saunas! This farm and its stunning landscape provide just the right degree of isolation for you to relax away from the rat race and forget your daily troubles. The restaurant here is well-known for its focus on locallysourced ingredients and the use of organic produce where possible. Throughout your stay you will enjoy some local delights in the central restaurant and be able to get a real taste of Lapland. We have a range of holidays on offer at Torassieppi to make the most of this delectable destination. These include dedicated photography holidays, Autumn Northern Lights hunts and week-long itineraries with the perfect blend of free time and Arctic experiences. All the holidays are, of course, dedicated to giving you the best possible chance of seeing the Northern Lights at their spectacular best.

TORASSIEPPI WINTER VILLAGE The Aurora is a natural phenomenon but this location also offers a manmade wonder in the form of Torassieppi Winter Village. The village is constructed from tonnes of ice and snow and is seen as an antidote to similar places in Lapland which can become rather crowded in peak season. The village includes snow and ice bedrooms and you can add in a night here, insulated from the cold by reindeer skins and thermal sleeping bags. It’s quite an experience sleeping in an environment where the temperature is constantly about -5°C, but wrapped up nice and snug you should be very cosy. Other features of the village include remarkable sculptures and artwork created by skilled artists. There is even an ice bar and restaurant to enjoy. Further details are available on our website.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikäinen

TORASSIEPPI - AUTUMN AURORA HUNT Holiday code: 2205

The Aurora hunting season starts at the end of August and, as the nights grow longer into October and November, some spectacular Northern Lights displays can be seen. This period offers so many unique experiences, including the chance to see the Aurora reflected in the, as yet, unfrozen lakes. Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities also make this a wonderful time to travel as the Arctic animals prepare for the onset of winter. During the day you will witness the stunning wilderness and its wildlife, learn how to cook some local dishes and encounter huskies and reindeer. Your evenings are dedicated to your quest for the Northern Lights, searching by minibus with an expert guide and spending an evening around a warming campfire at an ideal viewpoint. On some departure dates this holiday is based at Torassieppi’s sister hotel, Hotel Jeris. This destination also offers exceptional Aurora opportunities and similar accommodation options (see our website for details).

TORASSIEPPI - AUTUMN AURORA PHOTOGRAPHY Holiday code: 2207

The Northern Lights are a photographer’s dream and there can be few more captivating subjects. With experienced photography and wilderness guides on hand to offer tuition, this holiday will help you to capture this natural wonder on camera, as you hunt for the Northern Lights in the depths of Lapland. The wonderful thing about working with local guides is that their experience and knowledge allows you to witness sights and take pictures of scenery that will evade most photographers and guests. This holiday also highlights Lapland at its best during the daylight hours and you will see some spectacular scenery and wildlife. You will also enjoy getting up close to reindeer and huskies. On some departure dates this holiday is based at Torassieppi’s sister hotel, Hotel Jeris, which offers the same Aurora opportunities and similar accommodation options. Full details can be found on our website.

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing (if required), fully qualified guides, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

FINLAND

Flights, transfers and welcome Aurora workshop, National Park and Aurora hunt Huskies, visit to reindeer farm and Aurora campfire Wilderness cooking and Aurora hunt Depart or extend your stay

Should the winter snow arrive early the activities will be adapted to suit the conditions. Please note that the order of activities may change.

Prices from: £1045 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2205

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Balanced

Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation:

Meals:

4 nights’ hotel 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners

Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing (if required), fully qualified guides, Aurora alert and the activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Flights, transfers and welcome Aurora photography, National Park and Aurora hunt Huskies, visit a reindeer farm and Aurora campfire Eagle and wildlife watching and farewell dinner Depart or extend your stay

Should the winter snow arrive early the activities will be adapted to suit the conditions. Please note that the order of activities may change.

Prices from: £1180 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2207

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikäinen

TORASSIEPPI - AURORA PHOTOGRAPHY

FINLAND

Holiday code: 2006

In the company of a hugely experienced wilderness and photography guide, you will spend four nights in the depths of Lapland hunting for the Northern Lights. Your guide will put all of their local knowledge and experience to the best possible use in order to help you capture an Aurora on camera. The days will be filled with unforgettable experiences; with husky safaris, reindeer farm visits, ice restaurants, snowmobiles and spectacular wilderness to enjoy and photograph. You will also dedicate time to viewing some of the region’s wildlife. Based at the delightful Torassieppi Reindeer Farm, you will be immersed in the region’s wilderness from the outset and this accommodation provides a warm and welcoming base to return to each night. The surrounding countryside of Lapland is spectacularly pretty and you are just a short distance from Torassieppi Winter Village.

Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Accommodation: 7 nights’ hotel Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Flights, transfers and welcome Day 2: Photo workshop, husky safari, Aurora campfire Day 3: Reindeer farm, ice restaurant, Aurora hunt Day 4: National Park, snowshoeing and Aurora hunt Day 5: Snowmobiles and smoke sauna Day 6: Free day and Aurora hunt Day 7: Eagles, wildlife and photography presentation Day 8: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change

The landscape you will explore is a real adventure playground in which you can experience the best that Lapland has to offer.

Prices from: £2120 per person

TORASSIEPPI - LAKESIDE AURORAS

Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Holiday code: 2202

This balanced holiday offers a wilderness retreat with a relaxing schedule, but still manages to provide exceptional experiences and Aurora opportunities. Staying in either relaxing hotel rooms or winter cottages (supplements apply), at idyllic Torassieppi you can soak up the scenery and explore the snow-topped wilds. The gentle activities included cover all of the key highlights including a husky safari, reindeer encounters, ice fishing, snowshoeing and the chance to experience some ancient traditions from Lapland. Evenings are spent in pursuit of the Aurora with hunts via snowshoe, sleigh and minibus, in addition to an Aurora campfire at the start of your holiday. This holiday gives you the opportunity to see Lapland at its best, both at night and during the day, as well as the chance to simply relax and enjoy your delightful winter surroundings.

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2006

Accommodation:

7 nights’ hotel

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Flights, transfers and welcome Day 2: Aurora workshop, local handicrafts, Aurora campfire Day 3: Husky safari and Northern Lights hunt Day 4: Visit to reindeer farm and Aurora snowshoe hike Day 5: Kota lunch, ice fishing and Aurora snowmobile sleigh Day 6: National park, snowshoeing and Aurora hunt Day 7: Jeris spa and smoke sauna Day 8: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1815 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2202

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikäinen

FINNISH LAPLAND HARRINIVA WILDERNESS HOTEL

FINLAND

Harriniva was the destination for our very first Scandinavian holiday. It’s a location which delights our clients and staff year-on-year. Harriniva Wilderness Hotel is family-owned and run and there is a Nordic style apparent throughout. Each of the 64 en-suite bedrooms are furnished with a familiar pine finish. They are simple and very comfortable but what they don’t have is televisions. This is very purposeful – why watch Finnish television, when you can watch the Aurora Borealis? (There is a lounge if you really want to be bamboozled by Finnish telly!). The restaurant serves simple and hearty food. Breakfast is a Scandinavian buffet and in the evening you will typically enjoy a salad buffet followed by a set main course and dessert - perfect for fuelling you up before a night of Aurora hunting. Lunches are either served on the trail during activities or back at the hotel. For an added treat during your holiday, the Aurora Wellness Centre is situated a short distance from the hotel and here you can arrange massages and spa treatments (payable locally). Harriniva also provide our guests with an Aurora alert system which can aid your Northern Lights quest. Within a short walk of the hotel you can be staring at the night sky on the banks of the River Muonio, watching a spectacular display of the Aurora Borealis. Simply magical.

NORTHERN LIGHTS CABINS Situated on the riverbank and a short walk from the main hotel building, these cabins offer guests their own cosy ‘home from home’ experience in a secluded spot. The cabins have double or twin beds, a private sauna, an en-suite shower room, a small kitchen and a lounge area. These cabins are the main accommodation for our guests during some of our holidays but are also available as an upgrade during other itineraries (subject to availability).

TORASSIEPPI WINTER VILLAGE Guests can also choose to spend a night at Torassieppi Winter Village for some unforgettable snow room accommodation. Please see page 39 for further details.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikäinen

HARRINIVA - NORTHERN LIGHTS HUNTER Holiday code: 2007

This active short break provides an escape from the preChristmas build up, but gets you home in time to spend the main event with your family and friends. Incorporating some serious Arctic activities and dedicated Northern Lights hunts each night; this holiday packs a real punch in a short space of time. Based in the Northern Lights Cabins at Harriniva, this itinerary includes some real activity highlights and unique winter experiences. During the daytime you will enjoy a cookery school and meet a reindeer herder. Your evening Aurora hunts will take the form of a snowshoe hike, a Northern Lights snowmobile hunt and an unforgettable husky safari searching for the Aurora Borealis. This location allows you to experience so many of the region’s highlights in just three nights, whilst also maximising your Aurora viewing opportunities.

HARRINIVA - NORTHERN LIGHTS QUEST Holiday codes: 2008

Harriniva Wilderness Hotel nestles right in the heart of the Aurora Zone. Combining daytime highlights and evening Aurora hunts, this holiday is a bestseller each year. Your days will show you how beautiful Lapland is, with snowmobiles, reindeer and husky safaris being used to explore this amazing landscape. Your nights are focused on hunting the Aurora, using snowshoes and a minibus to aid you. On your final night you have the choice of spending the night at a remote wilderness Aurora Cabin (holiday code 2003), or in a snow room at Torassieppi Winter Village (holiday code 2008). Please note that we also have special Christmas and New Year versions of this holiday which can be found on our website using holiday codes 2004 and 2005.

Duration: 3 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

FINLAND

Accommodation: 3 nights’ Northern Lights Cabin Meals: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4:

Arrival, Aurora workshop, Aurora snowshoe hike Wilderness cookery and Northern Lights husky Visit to a reindeer farm and Aurora snowmobile Departure

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1225 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2007

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Accommodation: 3 nights’ hotel, 1 night Winter Village or Aurora Cabin Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, Aurora Zone representative, Aurora alert and all activities listed below Day 1: Flights, transfers and welcome Day 2: Snowmobile safari, Aurora workshop and Aurora hunt Day 3: Reindeer farm and Aurora snowshoe Day 4: Husky safari and Torassieppi Winter Village Day 5: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1380 per person (based on winter village accommodation)

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2008

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikäinen

FINLAND

FINNISH LAPLAND KITTILA

ACCOMMODATION

The days between Christmas and New Year can be a rather bizarre time and can sometimes leave you feeling as if you are in limbo.

HOTEL KITTILA

Our holiday in Kittila is the perfect antidote and makes the most of this time, allowing you to experience some unforgettable adventures in Lapland. This itinerary really offers the chance for you to take full advantage of the holiday season. Kittila is a small, welcoming town and provides the opportunity for guests to experience day-to-day Arctic life first-hand. Kittila is a working town and it is fascinating to see how the locals go about their daily lives in the Arctic. The town is also perfectly situated as a base from which to explore the forests and the snow-capped fells, as the Arctic wilds surround its boundaries.

There are two saunas for guests to use but the real focal point for your evening entertainment (when you are not out and about searching for the Northern Lights) is the friendly Pilot’s Bar. A real local favourite.

TORASSIEPPI WINTER VILLAGE Your last night will be spent in a snow room at Torassieppi Winter Village.

KITTILA - AURORA AND WINTER VILLAGE ADVENTURE

Duration: 3 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Hotel Kittila is an intimate little place in the heart of the Aurora Zone, providing the perfect base from which to explore the wilderness that surrounds this little town. Our Aurora and Winter Village Adventure holiday gives our Arctic guests a whirlwind winter adventure which is filled to the brim with all the key Lapland activities and experiences. This holiday is the perfect way to spend the days between Christmas and New Year whilst creating some unforgettable memories.

To book call 01670 785 077

The hotel restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and evening meals consist of hearty food designed to keep you warm and well-fuelled before and after your adventures.

This active trip includes highlights such as a thrilling snowmobile safari, a snowshoe hike, encounters with reindeer, Aurora hunting, an exceptional evening husky safari in search of the lights and an unforgettable night at Torassieppi Winter Village to finish off your stay.

Holiday code: 22006

With only 37 bedrooms, Hotel Kittila provides all guests with the warmest of welcomes. The rooms here are comfortable and all have an en-suite shower room and television.

You’ll be provided with an Arctic grade sleeping bag to ensure you are cosy and can make the most of your night amongst the snow and ice sculptures.

Accommodation: Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4:

2 nights’ hotel, 1 night Winter Village 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Flights, transfer and welcome Snowmobile safari, snowshoes and Aurora hunt Visit to a reindeer farm, Aurora husky safari and overnight at Torassieppi Winter Village Departure

The itinerary has been designed for those who want to experience a real diversity of winter activities in a short space of time during the Christmas holidays.

Please note that the order of activities may change

Two evenings are of course dedicated to searching for the Aurora; you’ll travel by heated minibus and in serious style during an Aurora husky safari.

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 22006

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Prices from: £1375 per person

Photo Credits All © Antti Pietikäinen

FINNISH LAPLAND MENESJÄRVI

FINLAND

Menesjärvi is a traditional reindeer herding community which fundamentally exists today pretty much as it has for centuries. The Sámi identity remains strong here and upholding past traditions is very much a natural part of daily life. The human population here is virtually non-existent, which means that the dark sky provides the perfect backdrop for Aurora hunters. Almost as striking as the Northern Lights is the silence. Stand still for a moment and all you will witness is Mother Nature at her very best: it may sound corny but you can almost hear the near perfect silence. The landscape too is pristine and unspoiled. Menesjärvi borders the Lemmonjoki National Park and it’s easy to understand why the area has such prestigious status. Menesjärvi is an uncomplicated place which takes you back to a much simpler way of living. It is a real favourite amongst both our guests and staff alike.

ACCOMMODATION HOTEL KORPIKARTANO Hotel Korpikartano sits on the shores of Lake Menesjärvi and was, until 2005, a boarding school. The buildings have retained great character and charm, with the quirky annex housing most of the 27 en-suite bedrooms. Your hosts here are Anne and Timo, a wonderful couple who welcome anyone who wishes to relax into this easy going way of life. Timo is a great outdoors man versed in all the essential Arctic skills, he is also an accomplished Northern Lights photographer and is always delighted to share his knowledge with guests. Anne is steadfastly proud of the beautiful landscape that surrounds the hotel and the traditions that still exist here. She makes sure that guests receive the warmest of welcomes. If you want to visit somewhere that is in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of everyday modern life, then Menesjärvi is the place for you.

MENESJÄRVI - WILDERNESS AURORAS Holiday code: 21001

It is a beautiful drive out into the wilderness to reach Menesjärvi and by the time you arrive and are welcomed with dinner, you’ll have hopefully left all your troubles far behind. Snowmobile out onto a frozen lake to do a little ice fishing, snowshoe into the wilderness to hunt the Aurora, accompany a reindeer herder for a morning and drive your own team of huskies across the Arctic landscape - these exciting activities are all included. In the evenings, you’ll head out under the Arctic sky... and you’ll wait. As you stare upwards in anticipation, in excitement and in hope, you’ll realise that only in the Aurora Zone can looking up be so thrilling. We also have special Christmas and New Year editions of this holiday so please search our website for holiday codes 21002 and 21004.

4 nights’ hotel 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Flights, transfer and welcome Snowmobile safari, winter fishing, Aurora workshop and Northern Lights snowshoeing Reindeer herding and Aurora snowmobiling Husky safari, Sámi Siida Museum, Aurora dinner Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1375 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 21001

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Ville Heimonen

FINNISH LAPLAND INARI

FINLAND

Inari, a place where reindeer comfortably outnumber people, is famous for three things – its Northern Lights record, Lake Inari and Sámi culture. These simple qualities make Inari a wonderful Arctic destination and a joy for all guests who visit.

As the only indigenous people within the European Union, the Sámi people proudly protect their language and culture and Inari is at the very heart of their cultural renaissance. However, there is far more to Inari. Located on the banks of mystical and magical Lake Inari, it is a Northern Lights hotspot and a great base for enjoying a range of winter activities and experiences.

ACCOMMODATION HOTEL KULTAHOVI Hotel Kultahovi is split between two separate buildings. All of our guests stay in the New River Hotel which, as the name implies, was built most recently and houses just 16 en-suite bedrooms. All of the rooms are beautifully presented with their own private saunas, drying cupboard for your winter clothes and either a patio or balcony. The main hotel has a well-deserved reputation for its fabulous local food. It is around 20 metres from the New River building and contains the newly renovated restaurant and bar area which is where all meals are served.

Whether it’s snowmobiling to a sacred Sámi site which emerges like an iceberg made of ancient rock from the depths of Lake Inari, or standing spellbound under the Northern Lights, Inari is sure to delight.

The Kultahovi is owned and operated by Kaisu and Heikki; a brother and sister who, as traditional Sámi people, have an extraordinary understanding of the area and how best to explore it. They’re the most appropriate hosts in a part of the world where Sámi culture is thriving and their passion for local produce shines through in the restaurant menus.

INARI - AURORA IN THE SÁMI HEARTLANDS

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for : 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Holiday code: 22001

The Hotel Kultahovi, with its views of the River Juutua, delivers on comfort, food and location; the perfect base for some serious Aurora Hunting. Our Aurora in the Sámi Heartlands is an education from the second you arrive. You’ll soak up the Sámi culture as you snowmobile to a wilderness church and travel to the tiny Island of Ukonkivi; you’ll experience local life when you visit a working reindeer farm and fish in Lake Inari; you’ll thrill at The Great Outdoors as you cross-country ski and husky sled across the varied winter landscape. This holiday captures the heart and mind in equal measures as you seem to step back in time to a place where the world was much more simple...and blissfully still is! For our special Christmas and New Year itineraries please search for holiday codes 22003 and 22002 on our website.

Accommodation: Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

4 nights’ hotel 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Flights, transfer and welcome in Inari Snowmobile safari, Sámi culture, Aurora snowshoe Reindeer farm, cross-country skiing, Aurora hunt Husky safari and Aurora snowmobiling Depart or extend your stay (we offer a two-night extension; please see website for details)

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1575 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 22001

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 © Guesthouse Husky 2 © Visit finland & Flatlight Films

SWEDISH LAPLAND ABISKO & THE ICEHOTEL®

SWEDEN

ABISKO MOUNTAIN LODGE Abisko has an amazing Aurora record which attracts guests from all over the world each year. Abisko Mountain Lodge makes for an excellent base from which to explore, day or night, and the clear skies bring strong promise of Northern Lights sightings. These skies come from a bowl of cloud-breaking mountains and favourable prevailing winds – the perfect conditions for Aurora hunting. Your hosts, Dick and Mina, have created this wonderful lodge and they focus on getting their guests to really experience the surrounding landscape along with the delicious local cuisine.

THE ICEHOTEL® Every year as the Torne River freezes and the snow lies deep in Lapland, architects, engineers and artists gather to create a true spectacle – the world renowned ICEHOTEL®. Each ICEHOTEL® is unique – literally. It’ll be gone in a few short months and then, the following year, the designers and artists will build us a brand new one.

The majority of our holidays at Abisko include a guided tour so you can take in the magnificent suites, ICEBAR® and chapel. During some itineraries you will have a night included in one of the snow or ice rooms at the end of your holiday in Abisko. You can always choose to upgrade this room if you would like to make your stay extra special. It is also possible to arrange a room in the warm accommodation if you prefer this option (subject to availability). On other trips you can add an additional night at the end of your stay.

THE TREEHOTEL Located in the southern region of Swedish Lapland, the Treehotel is an architectural masterpiece. There are seven spectacular rooms here, all set amongst, or suspended from, the trees and each entirely unique. You can stay here prior to your time at Abisko in The UFO, The Bird’s Nest or The Mirror Cube amongst others. A night here will then be followed by a scenic train ride through the Scandinavian countryside as you head north to Abisko.

TAILOR MADE We also offer the chance for you to design your own holiday at Abisko, simply search for holiday code 27010 on our website. 3

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 © Lights Over Lapland 2 © TreeHotel 3 © MartinJakobsson/imagebank.sweden.se

ABISKO - AUTUMN AURORAS

SWEDEN

Holiday code: 26004

The Abisko Mountain Lodge in autumn delivers awe-inspiring, panoramic views that drift away for miles. There’s a purity to the landscape here, which allows nature to remain as much of a tourist attraction as the activities. Abisko Autumn Auroras highlights the absolute beauty of the season whilst still providing adventurous days and delivering Aurora hunting nights. You’ll explore on foot, take a memorable journey across the border into Norway and hike across the spectacular terrain. Not only will you be able to hunt the Aurora, you’ll also be taught to photograph it perfectly – all you need to bring is an SD memory card and one of the Aurora hunting top photographers, as your expert guide, will help you with the rest.

If you don’t fancy Aurora hunting in sub-zero temperatures, then Abisko in autumn is perfect for you. You can get ahead of the busier winter period and enjoy the autumn colours at their very best.

ABISKO - AURORA ADVENTURE Holiday code: 27009

This secluded location in Swedish Lapland frequently tops polls of the best places in the world to keep watch for the Northern Lights. You are also sure to receive the warmest of welcomes and enjoy some memorable Arctic activities during your stay at this famous lodge. Your base at Abisko Mountain Lodge offers modern Swedish décor along with much-praised food and knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides. The activities included are exceptional and many are unique to this location. You will visit the Abisko Sky Station, tour the world renowned ICEHOTEL® and enjoy a guided visit to the Norwegian coastal town of Narvik. You’ll also meet huskies and encounter reindeer at a Sámi cultural centre. In the evenings, Abisko’s excellent vantage point means you need not go far should the chances of viewing the Northern Lights be high, so you will have every opportunity to hopefully see an Aurora. 1

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ lodge Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing (if required), fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Flights, transfer and Aurora workshop Guided day trip to Narvik and Aurora photography Abisko hike and Northern Lights hunt Hike in Abisko National Park, hot tub and Northern Lights hike Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change. Should the winter snows arrive very early then the activities will be adapted to suit the conditions.

Prices from: £1365 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 26004

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ lodge Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Flights, transfer and welcome in Abisko Narvik day trip and Aurora Sky Station Husky safari Sámi culture and the ICEHOTEL® Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1225 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 27009

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 2 © Lights Over Lapland 3 © Klas Tigerstrom

ABISKO - AURORA AND THE ICEHOTEL® - LEVEL 1

SWEDEN

Holiday code: 26001

Abisko and the ICEHOTEL® are so incredibly special, that we’ve created two levels of this holiday for our guests to choose from. One of our main aims is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the area, the activities and the culture, and not be put off by the idea of strenuous activities. This Level 1 trip sets a gentler pace with more relaxed activities. You’ll be able to travel by husky sled (as a passenger or alternatively there is the option to upgrade to drive your own team), go ice fishing, take part in a gentle snowshoe outing and learn a little about Sámi culture. There’s plenty of time to relax, plenty of good local food and plenty of Aurora hunting. You will even be shown how to capture this natural wonder on camera during a hunt with an expert guide.

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Accommodation: 3 nights’ lodge & 1 night ICEHOTEL® in an Ice Room Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5

Flights, transfer and Aurora snowshoe Ice fishing Husky safari and Aurora photography Sámi culture and night at the ICEHOTEL® Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

The ICEHOTEL® is a fabulous feat of engineering and a must-see, so naturally, we’ve included a guided tour and an unforgettable overnight stay for the final night of this wonderful itinerary.

Prices from: £1345 per person

ABISKO - AURORA AND THE ICEHOTEL® - LEVEL 2

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 26001

Holiday code: 26002

The most active of our holidays in Sweden, this Level 2 trip combines outstanding activities such as ice climbing, dog sledding and snowmobiling with some serious Northern Lights viewing opportunities. You will stay in the welcoming Abisko Mountain Lodge where your outdoor addicted hosts will provide the warmest of welcomes before you head to the world famous ICEHOTEL® for a tour and an overnight stay. Ice climb up a frozen waterfall, drive your own team of huskies through the open countryside, snowmobile across snow-laden terrain, snowshoe into otherwise inaccessible areas, and keep an eye skywards for the Aurora Borealis each night. We also include the chance to hunt and photograph the Aurora with an expert Aurora photographer; all you need to do is bring an SD memory card for the pictures. This is an outstanding holiday for those who want an active Aurora experience. 11

Flights, transfer and Aurora snowshoe Ice climbing and husky safari Snowmobiling and Aurora photography Sámi culture and night at the ICEHOTEL® Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1745 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 26002

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 © Lights Over Lapland 2 © Split Cane Adventures 3 © Julia Gamborg Nielsen, Lotta Lampa, ICEHOTEL & Paulina Holmgren

ABISKO - ARCTIC AURORAS

SWEDEN

Holiday code: 26005

Abisko Mountain Lodge is a cosy place with a strong emphasis on the little community of guests it attracts each holiday season, and the exceptional activities it provides for them.

Our Abisko Arctic Auroras holiday gives guests the clearest skies in which to see the Northern Lights and the purest, snow-laden landscapes in which to do amazing activities. Dog sledding, snowmobiling, Aurora photography and ice fishing are just some of the things you’ll be able to try your hand at, plus you may well see reindeer and moose roaming free. Of course, you’ll have leisure time to do extra activities such as ice climbing or skiing at the nearby resort of Björkliden. The icing on this particular cake is a guided tour and overnight stay at the world famous ICEHOTEL®. You have to see it to believe it; stop by for a drink or stay the night but, whatever you do, don’t miss this remarkable monument to snow and ice architecture.

Duration: 6 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7

6 nights’ lodge 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below

Flights, transfers and Aurora snowshoe hike Snowmobile safari Dog sledding Ice fishing and Aurora photography Free day or optional activities Sámi culture and tour of the ICEHOTEL® Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1565 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 26005

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 2 © Lights Over Lapland 3 ©Klas Tigerstrom 4 © Graeme Richardson

SWEDISH LAPLAND SÖRBYN LODGE AND THE TREEHOTEL

SWEDEN

SÖRBYN LODGE Sörbyn Lodge is a delight. Situated close to a beautiful lake, and surrounded by the forests of Lapland, the lodge nestles in a tranquil spot. Around an hour from Luleå, Sörbyn Lodge gives guests a warm welcome and an escape from the everyday. The main building houses the restaurant and reception and the eight rooms are situated in an adjacent annexe building. The lodge also offers a number of recently renovated log cabins which guests can upgrade to for the duration of their stay. Sörbyn Lodge is renowned for its restaurant which focuses on local produce, cooked to an excellent standard. The chefs take great pride in their dishes and, in our opinion, this pays off in spades.

THE TREEHOTEL An incredible example of the talent and imagination of Swedish architecture, the Treehotel is one of the most sought after accommodation options in Swedish Lapland.

Here you can spend the night in one of their remarkable concept rooms. You can choose from The UFO (any sci-fi addicts dream), The Bird’s Nest tucked high up in the trees, The Mirror Cube with its stunning exterior, The Cabin with its delightful interior or The Blue Cone which offers wonderful views a bit closer to the ground. All of the rooms are surrounded by the forest and offer an unforgettable place in which to end your holiday.

AURORA SAFARI CAMP The Aurora Safari Camp is one of the most comfortable and cosy wilderness experiences we have seen. The brainchild of renowned Swedish photographer, Fredrik Broman, the camp offers a level of comfort which you would not normally expect from a tented camp in winter! The camp offers a communal lounge tent where predinner drinks can be enjoyed and meals savoured, as well as a number of cosy, heated sleeping tents and an eco toilet. You will enjoy a delicious evening meal at the camp and breakfast the next day. Obviously the camp is situated in an ideal Aurora viewing location, so hopefully the lights will top off your experience and you’ll witness a magnificent display.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 © Graeme Richardson 2 ©Fredrik Broman 3 ©Lola Akinmade Åkerström and image bank Sweden

SÖRBYN LODGE – NORTHERN LIGHTS OVER THE LODGE

SWEDEN

Holiday code: 27004

During your short, yet action-packed, stay in Lapland you will take part in unforgettable experiences in the wilderness and delight in your lodge accommodation.

You will participate in an array of activities including a snowmobile safari across frozen marshland, ice fishing on a frozen lake and a dog sled safari in the most beautiful scenery. At night, the Aurora potential at Sörbyn is excellent and we maximise your chances of catching a display with two evenings of Aurora hunting. During these hunts your expert guide will lead you to a local viewpoint where you will await the Aurora in hopeful anticipation. At the end of your stay there is also the possibility to add an additional night in one of two amazing locations. You can extend your holiday with a stay at the Treehotel, one of Sweden’s most iconic hotels, or add on a night in the comfortable and charming Aurora Safari Camp for some serious Lapland glamping.

Duration: 3 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4:

3 nights’ lodge 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below

Flights, transfer and introduction Husky safari, ice fishing and Aurora kick sled Snowmobile tour and Aurora snowshoeing Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1595 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 27004

SÖRBYN LODGE - NORTHERN LIGHTS OF LAPLAND Holiday code: 26003

During your time here at Sörbyn Lodge you can enjoy some unforgettable experiences that will take you out into the scenic wilderness that surrounds this delightful accommodation. By the end of your stay you will have enjoyed a thrilling snowmobile safari, ice fishing on a frozen lake, snowshoeing in snow-laden woods and dog sledding across this winter wonderland. The Aurora potential is also very good in this region and we maximise your chances of witnessing a display with three evening hunts. You will hunt for the lights on foot and use the mobility of snowmobiles to help you in your quest. Your biggest asset, however, is the local knowledge and expertise of the guides who will be leading your Northern Lights activities - they really know their stuff.

To book call 01670 785 077

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ lodge Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Flights, transfer and introduction Snowmobile safari, snowshoeing, Aurora kick sled Ice fishing and Northern Lights hunt Husky safari and Aurora snowmobile safari Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1935 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 26003

We implore all guests to extend their stay and try one of the exceptional extension options here as the choice is wonderful. See our website for details.

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 © Fredrik Broman and image bank sweden 2 © CreActive Adventure 3 © Sorbyn Lodge 4 © Graeme Richardson

SWEDISH LAPLAND LULEÅ

SWEDEN

Holidays at Pine Bay Lodge allow you to explore the incredible landscape of the Luleå Archipelago from a cosy and homely base. This region is characterised by the multitude of small islands which, along with a backdrop of pack ice and snow-topped forests, provides an activity and Aurora haven for visitors. Pine Bay Lodge is located on the coastal edge of the archipelago. The lodge is cosy and welcoming and features a lounge area with large open fire. 2

The accommodation here is far more ski chalet in format than hotel, with guests all dining and relaxing in the central lounge. It is a real ‘home from home’ experience and your hosts provide exceptional meals and hospitality throughout. It is possible to extend to spend the night in the wonderfully unique Treehotel. Details can be found in the ‘personalise’ section of the holiday web page.

PINE BAY LODGE ARCHIPELAGO AURORAS Holiday code: 26006 3

Enjoy three nights at Pine Bay Lodge on the edge of the stunning Luleå Archipelago. This itinerary has been designed to ensure that you really make the most of this unique environment. You will head out on snowmobiles for a tour of the tiny islands, travelling out to where the pack ice can develop into formations of up to 10 metres high. You will travel through the snow-laden forests as you lead a team of huskies during a safari and enjoy a thrilling and unique hovercraft tour on the pack ice; an unforgettable way to see the landscape at its very best. At night you search for the Northern Lights during an Aurora snowshoe walk, however the lights can often be seen just outside the lodge. We also offer a four night festive holiday here. Please see holiday code 1100 online for details.

PINE BAY LODGE Pine Bay Lodge is the kind of place that makes you feel like curling up by the fire and relaxing with your slippers on. Obviously, this is highly recommended after a day of adventures, but only as long as the Northern Lights are not dancing in the sky as they often do. The lodge is centred on the main lounge area, where the open fire beckons guests to the cosy sofas and the open plan dining area offers views of the surrounding countryside. At night you can keep a watchful eye out for the Northern Lights from just in front of the lodge (many a meal has been interrupted here and the chef is very understanding). The kitchen at the lodge is a real highlight and every evening a delicious menu, often including local produce, is carefully prepared for all guests. The lodge only has eight newly renovated guest bedrooms, all with en-suite shower rooms, so you really can describe this as an ‘exclusive destination’. The rooms are very comfortable and provide a peaceful place to lay your head after a day of adventures.

Duration: 3 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Active Suitable for 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 3 nights’ lodge Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4:

3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Flights, transfer and welcome Snowmobile tour of the archipelago, husky safari and Northern Lights snowshoeing Hovercraft tour of the archipelago Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1615 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 26006

ACCOMMODATION

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 4 © Per Pettersson 2 © Pine Bay Lodge 3 © Graeme Richardson

SWEDISH LAPLAND LULEÅ

SWEDEN

Brändön Lodge is located on the edge of the sea ice that forms around the Luleå Archipelago each year. It is a remarkable sight to see such a vast frozen mass of water each morning as you step out of your cosy cottage for a day of activities. This superb area of Swedish Lapland offers guests an exciting and active insight into the unique Luleå Archipelago. The archipelago consists of over 3000 small islands which are encased in pack ice during the winter. The lodge is situated on the frozen shoreline and is wellknown for its delightful log cabin-style restaurant and lovely winter cottages. Brändön offers an excellent base from which to explore the region and, at the end of your stay, it is possible to extend to spend the night in the wonderfully unique Treehotel. Details can be found in the ‘personalise’ section on the holiday web page.

ACCOMMODATION BRÄNDÖN LODGE Brändön Lodge consists of individual winter cottages and a central restaurant and reception building, which is just a short walk away from the guest accommodation. Each homely cottage is detached, allowing guests the space to unwind and relax in comfort, but with all the added benefits of having its restaurant within easy walking distance. All the winter cottages have an open-plan living and dining area with kitchenette. We recommend taking your own tea and coffee provisions with you so you can make use of the facilities, there’s no need to worry about cooking though as your meals are all included. The cottages have two bedrooms (both furnished with twin beds which in some cases can be moved together), an en-suite shower room, hairdryer and toilet. The cottages have a modern yet authentic Scandinavian feel and are very comfortable. One of the nicest features of the cottages are the terraces, where in the morning you can step out and marvel at the view of the frozen sea and snow-covered forests that stretch before you.

BRÄNDÖN LODGE AURORA HIGHLIGHTS Holiday code: 26009

This region of Swedish Lapland offers some truly unique experiences and some exceptional Aurora viewing opportunities. During this four night holiday you will enjoy a husky safari and a hovercraft tour over the frozen sea during the daylight hours. After darkness falls the focus switches to the allimportant Northern Lights and you will participate in two dedicated hunts for the Aurora with your expert guides. A snowmobile-pulled sleigh ride and snowshoe hike are both dedicated to your quest to catch a display. During one evening you will also enjoy a gourmet dining experience in a teepee located on the pack ice, a very special meal indeed! Following each activity, you can return to your own winter cottage and relax in private surroundings.

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

4 nights’ winter cottage 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Flights, transfer and welcome Husky safari and dinner on ice experience Optional snowmobiling and Aurora snowshoeing Hovercraft tour and Aurora hunt via snowmobile-pulled sled Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1795 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 26009

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits All © Graeme Richardson

SWEDEN - THE ULTIMATE AURORA ADVENTURE

SWEDEN

Holiday code: 26008

The word ‘ultimate’ appears in the title of this holiday for good reason. This itinerary ticks so many bucket list boxes that it is hard to list them all!

Starting at Brändön Lodge, you will head out on a Northern Lights hunt as well as enjoying the delights of dog sledding and snowmobiling. You will stay in a winter cottage for your first three nights here, and your fourth will be spent in a treetop room at the truly remarkable Treehotel, one of the most renowned architectural wonders in Sweden. A stunning train ride then takes you north to the Aurora Mecca of Abisko. Three nights at the Abisko Mountain Lodge will allow you to hunt the Northern Lights and enjoy the stunning landscape as you take part in our Abisko - Aurora and ICEHOTEL® Level 1 holiday (see page 59 for details). Your holiday ends at the world famous ICEHOTEL® with an unforgettable one night stay. Duration:

8 nights

Group size (approx): Pace:

Maximum 20 people

Active

Suitable for:

15 years and older

All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Accommodation: 3 nights’ Brändön Lodge, 1 night Treehotel, 3 nights’ Abisko Lodge, 1 night ICEHOTEL® Ice Room Meals:

Also included:

Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7: Day 8: Day 9:

8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides, and all activities listed below

Flights, arrival and Aurora hunt via snowmobile-pulled sled Husky safari and ice fishing Snowmobile tour of the forest, Aurora snowshoe and wilderness dinner Night at the Treehotel Train to Abisko and Aurora snowshoeing Ice fishing Husky safari and Aurora photography Sámi culture and the ICEHOTEL® Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £2945 per person 1

Photo Credits 1 © Lola Akinmade Åkerström/ imagebank.sweden.se 2 © Brandon Lodge

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 26008 Photo Credits 3 © Lights over Lapland 4 © Treehotel 5 © Graeme Richardson

SWEDISH LAPLAND TÄRENDÖ

SWEDEN

Residing along the broad sweep of the Tärendö River, this small village is home to around 500 inhabitants and is known both for its rather lovely setting amongst the snow-topped forests, and its brilliant Northern Lights potential. Upon arrival at Tärendö you will at once be able to appreciate its beautiful location amongst the trees. In the depths of winter when the snow blankets the branches and the ground, the view from your hotel window is quite simply magical. 2

In winter the river becomes frozen, creating a platform from which to not only view the vastness of the Arctic sky, but also to enjoy a range of adventures such as snowmobiling and snowshoeing. The region is also well-known for forest skiing (similar to cross-country skiing but with wider skis) which is the ideal pursuit for exploring and getting to know the the area around the hotel.

TÄRENDÖ - NORTHERN LIGHTS AND THE ICEHOTEL® Holiday code: 27001

This holiday encapsulates the region of Swedish Lapland and the varied activities will live long in your memory.

THE FOREST HOTEL The Forest Hotel is situated on the edge of the small village of Tärendö in the heart of Swedish Lapland and in a region steeped in Sámi culture. The hotel enjoys a privileged position on the Tärendö River and, with unobstructed views of the northern sky, visitors regularly witness spectacular Auroras. There are 29 rooms in total that can be made up as either twin or double and all are comfortably furnished. They are all en-suite with a shower room and a hairdryer for guests’ convenience. All meals are served in the central restaurant area. Breakfast is a continental buffet and dinner is a set two course menu featuring some local and international. Local ingredients are included in the menus where possible. The hotel will also provide a Northern Lights door knocking service if requested at reception. This will operate until approximately 11pm, but please ensure you confirm this with the staff on arrival as times can vary.

Your daytime activities allow you to sample some muchloved Swedish pastimes including ice fishing, forest skiing and snowshoeing. You will also partake in an unforgettable snowmobile safari and a dog sledding trip in the wilderness.

Meals: Also included:

Your nocturnal Aurora hunting pursuits include a Northern Lights workshop and a trip out in a snowmobile-pulled sleigh in search of the Aurora. Accompanied by expert local guides, you will be led to local viewing points where the group will sit back and wait for a potential display.

Day 1: Flights, transfer and welcome Day 2: Ice fishing by snowmobile, Aurora workshop Day 3: Forest ski and snowshoe expedition, Aurora hunt via snowmobile-pulled sleigh Day 4: Husky safari Day 5: Visit to the ICEHOTEL®, optional extension or departure

At the end of the holiday, we include a tour of the original and world famous ICEHOTEL®. There is the chance to upgrade to spend the night here and details can be found in the ‘personalise’ section of the holiday page on our website.

4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, use of cross-country skis and snowshoes for the duration of your stay, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1715 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 27001

ACCOMMODATION

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 2, 3 © Margareta, Ingemar and Patric Grape 4 © Wilfred Stijger & Edith Van De Wetering

SWEDISH LAPLAND ABISKO, THE ICEHOTEL® AND TÄRENDÖ

SWEDEN

Swedish Lapland has so much to offer visitors and each destination has its own highlights and unique experiences to showcase. Three of our most sought after destinations have therefore been combined into one trip, creating a holiday which encapsulates the Swedish Arctic. Starting in the mountains of Abisko, guests can enjoy the wild landscapes and explore the region during the day and night. The area’s Aurora record needs little introduction. 2

One of Sweden’s most famous man-made landmarks is your next stop so that you can stare in wonderment at the majesty and craftsmanship of the ICEHOTEL®. The landscape then softens as you head to the village of Tärendö and the aptly named Forest Hotel for a taste of life in Lapland. The hotel’s riverside location and forest backdrop set the scene for a wonderful selection of activities and some serious Aurora viewing potential.

TÄRENDÖ - NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS AND THE ICEHOTEL® Holiday code: 27011 3

Sweden’s Arctic has so much to offer visitors that we often find people are unable to choose between destinations – now you do not have to! Starting in the famous Aurora hotspot of Abisko, you will take to the wilds during the day to enjoy dog sledding and ice fishing. Your evenings will be filled with dedicated Aurora activities including an unforgettable Aurora photography session. After a cultural encounter, you sleep at the stunning ICEHOTEL®, an experience like no other. Your three nights in Tärendö provide stunning woodland landscapes and further activities, with snowmobiling and forest skiing included alongside evening Northern Lights hunting. This holiday combines three exceptional destinations and showcases their respective highlights, and fascinating contrasts, in wonderful style.

To book call 01670 785 077

ABISKO MOUNTAIN LODGE On a hillside in the Swedish mountains, this famous lodge has a prime location. Any stay here is focused on The Great Outdoors, great food and great company. Your first three nights are spent in twin room accommodation at the lodge.

THE ICEHOTEL® This place needs no real introduction as it is the original cold accommodation and remains the most ornate of its kind. A night in a snow room is included in your stay and we can arrange an upgrade to one of the more dramatic suites if you prefer (supplements applicable).

THE FOREST HOTEL This warm and welcoming accommodation is familyowned and operated and offers some wonderful Swedish hospitality. The final three nights of your stay will be spent in the comfortable rooms here, and by the end, it is likely you will feel like part of this delightful community.

Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 3 nights’ Abisko, 1 night ICEHOTEL® 3 nights’ Forest Hotel Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Flights, transfer and Aurora snowshoe trek Day 2: Ice fishing Day 3: Husky safari and Aurora photography Day 4: Sámi culture and the ICEHOTEL® Day 5: Transfer to Forest Hotel Day 6: Forest skiing, sauna introduction, Aurora workshop Day 7: Snowmobile safari, ice fishing and Aurora snowshoe Day 8: Departure Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £2195 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 27011

ACCOMMODATION

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 4 ©Margareta, Ingemar and Patric Grape 3 © Split Cane Adventures 2 © Christopher Hauser & ICEHOTEL

NORWAY LOFOTEN ISLANDS

NORWAY

An archipelago in Northern Norway, the Lofoten Islands are one of the country’s most spectacularly beautiful destinations, offering distinctive scenery of mountain peaks, open sea, sheltered bays, picturesque beaches and untouched landscapes. Winter is an excellent time to travel here as, in comparison to other northerly destinations, the weather can be mild and the skies will often light up with dazzling Aurora displays.

Svolvær is the largest town in the Lofoten Archipelago. It has approximately 4,500 inhabitants and is the regional hub. Originally a fishing village, the heart of the town is still very much the harbour area, with its beautiful backdrop of dramatic, snow-covered mountains. Visitors to the islands can often expect to see a wonderful variety of wildlife including seals and otters as well as birdlife such as puffins, cormorants and sea eagles. Moose can also be found inland. You can choose between two excellent accommodation options for your stay.

LOFOTEN - LANDSCAPES AND LIGHTS AT LEISURE 3

Holiday code: 1300

This holiday is designed to allow you to explore some of the gems of these world famous islands from your base in the charming small town of Svolvær on the island of Austvågøya. During your stay you will enjoy a RIB boat safari to see the incredible scenic beauty of the islands from a different vantage point. The island is also home to an array of wildlife and sightings of sea eagles, seals and puffins are not uncommon. You will learn more about the island’s unique history at the World War II Museum and, for those looking to learn more about the island’s past, there are plenty of other cultural attractions which you can visit during your free time.

Photo Credits 1 © Andrea Giubelli, Innovation Norway & visitnorway.com 2 © Svinøya Rorbuer

To book call 01670 785 077

Evenings will be spent searching for the Aurora, using the mobility of a minibus to try and track down a potential display. Hopefully you will see why this region is known for showcasing incredible beauty both during the day and at night.

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

ACCOMMODATION SCANDIC HOTEL SVOLVÆR Situated ideally in the capital of Lofoten, the Scandic Svolvær is 5km from the airport and provides the ideal base to explore this delightful city. The hotel has 146 rooms in total, all of which are comfortably furnished with some offering balconies and seaviews. Other facilities available in the rooms include hairdryer, TV, phone and toiletries. Guests can watch the comings and goings as ships pass by and fishing boats unload their catch.

SVINØYA RORBUER The charming and traditional Svinøya Rorbuer accommodation is also centrally located on the harbour of Svolvær. Consisting of a variety of cabin and apartment options converted from old fishermen’s cabins, they offer a traditional feel, alongside modern amenities and very comfortable accommodation.

Duration: 3 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Relaxed Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4:

3 nights’ hotel or apartments/cabin 3 breakfasts Flights, transfers, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Flights, transfer and welcome RIB boat safari and Aurora hunt via minibus Visit to war museum and Aurora hunt via minibus Departure

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1295 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 1300

Photo Credits 3 © Pål S. Vindfallet, visitnorway.com & Innovation Norway 4 ©Visitnorway.com & Innovation Norway

NORWAY SORTLAND

NORWAY

Sortland is located on the coast of Northern Norway. It is often referred to as ‘The Blue City’ due to the brightly painted blue buildings that can be seen all around town. Home to almost 10,000 people, Sortland may be a bustling small city but it is also surrounded by impressive scenery, nature and wildlife. Connected to the surrounding Vesterålen Islands by a number of bridges, Sortland quickly became a meeting place and trading centre. Today it is a thriving place with a range of services, cultural activities, shops and restaurants. 2

A major highlight of the area, and a real draw to visitors, is the surrounding seas and the giant mammals which, for part of the year, inhabit the area. Whale watching tours are very popular and when you witness a whale breaching the water you will understand why. It is a wonderful destination that allows you to explore a fascinating coastal city, spending your nights hunting the Northern Lights and your days partaking in exceptional winter activities and experiences.

SORTLAND - NORTHERN LIGHTS ON THE NORWEGIAN COAST Holiday code: 4000

This four night break gives you the chance to experience the wildlife and activity highlights of this region and offers wonderful Aurora potential. Each night is filled with a dedicated Aurora hunt. Whether you are searching on foot, or by snowshoes, in a minibus or even onboard a boat, your local guides will offer the best possible opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Obviously we like to keep you nice and busy during the daylight hours too and so your trip to Sortland also includes some unforgettable activities and experiences during the day. Highlights include a dog sled safari and the opportunity to take to the water onboard a whale watching RIB boat. You will also visit a local Sámi reindeer farm to learn about the daily life of a herder and the importance of the reindeer to the region’s heritage. 11

ACCOMMODATION SORTLAND HOTELL During your visit to the coastal town of Sortland you will be staying at the centrally located Sortland Hotell. This hotel has welcomed guests for over 100 years and has a rich heritage and links to some of the areas most famous residents (including the Queen of Norway!). It is a comfortable base from which to explore the town as the centre is within easy walking distance. During your stay you will reside in either a twin or double bedroom at the hotel, all of which have been renovated recently. All rooms are en-suite and feature either a bath or shower. The rooms also provide guests with complimentary wireless internet, flat screen TV and telephone. Each bedroom features a piece of artwork by a local artist. All the local amenities are within easy walking distance of your accommodation.

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 8 people Pace: Active Suitable for : 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel room Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Flights, transfers, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Flights, welcome and Aurora transfer Whale watching and minibus Aurora hunt Husky safari and Aurora hunting by boat Hiking and snowshoe hunt for the Northern Lights Sámi reindeer visit and departure

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1625 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 4000

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1, 2 ©Robert Finn Novak 3 © Marten Bril

NORWAY SORTLAND WITH AURORA ADDICTS

NORWAY

Sortland draws people from around the world to witness its spectacular scenery and array of wildlife as well as take advantage of its position within the Aurora Zone. With its mountainous backdrop and ease of access to the spectacular Vesterålen Islands, this area has a huge amount to offer.

Working alongside the ‘Aurora Addicts’, a British family who have now dedicated their lives to showcasing this region and the Aurora, we have created this second itinerary in the area led by them and staying in cabin accommodation. There are also some unique opportunities on offer here, including the chance to visit the Andøya Space Centre to meet with a research scientist who will offer information about the Aurora. Your accommodation is ideally located just outside the main town of Sortland which means that, due to the low levels of light pollution, if there is any Auroral activity late at night then you should be able to enjoy it from just outside your cabin.

SORTLAND - ADVENTURE WITH THE AURORA ADDICTS Holiday code: 27005 3

Your guides here are all self-proclaimed ‘Aurora Addicts’ and together you will hunt for the Northern Lights on all four evenings. Your guides will utilise their expert local knowledge, consulting the solar activity and weather forecasts in order to help you witness the Northern Lights at their glorious best. A visit to the Andøya Space Centre is a real highlight for visitors. At the centre you will enjoy fascinating Aurora exhibits and a space simulator before a meeting with a scientist who has dedicated many years of their life to researching space and the Northern Lights. Your daytimes are filled with unforgettable winter experiences. Highlights include a visit to a Sámi reindeer herder and a dog sled safari, two activities which are intrinsically linked to this region’s heritage. Each night you will return to your cosy cabin accommodation; your own ‘home from home’.

ACCOMMODATION

VESTERÅLEN SJØHUS Vesterålen Sjøhus is a delightful collection of seven wooden fishermen’s cabins, built in traditional Norwegian style and offering a rustic charm and delightful location. Set against a backdrop of dramatic snow-topped mountains and overlooking the fjords of Vesterålen, they are also only a fifteen minute walk from the coastal town of Sortland. You will have easy access to amenities including a range of shops and restaurants. Each of the fishermen’s cabins can accommodate up to six people as there are two bedrooms and a sofa bed for two additional adults inside. The cabins also have a shower room with toilet and underfloor heating. There is a small kitchenette and living room area for you to relax in. The on-site Sjostua Restaurant serves a delicious range of homemade food including some Norwegian specialties with a focus on locally-sourced fish. Fishing rods can be hired for use on the hotel’s fishing pier should you wish to try and land a catch.

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 8 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

4 nights’ cabin 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing during husky safari, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Arrival, introduction and Aurora chase Spaceship Aurora experience and Aurora chase Sámi reindeer experience and Aurora chase Husky safari and Aurora chase Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1615 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 27005

4 2

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 2 © Vesteralen Sjohus 1, 3 & 4 © Aurora Addicts

NORWAY ALTA

NORWAY

Alta is one of the most northerly towns in Norway and its unique geographical location between the mountains and the sea results in some wonderfully clear night skies. This, combined with the Aurora activity levels in the area, leads to some extremely impressive Aurora displays and a well-deserved reputation as the ‘The Town of the Northern Lights’. Given the stable climate and minimal light pollution (particularly when heading out into the surrounding wilderness), during some years the Aurora Borealis has been seen here up to 200 nights a year. The area is of such importance when it comes to the Northern Lights, that one of the world’s first Northern Lights observatories was built here to take advantage of its Aurora record.

SCANDIC HOTEL ALTA Located in the centre of Alta, the Scandic Hotel is the ideal base from which to explore this area of Northern Norway. With a range of visitor attractions quite literally on your doorstep you will not have to venture too far to enjoy the sights and sounds of this Arctic town. You will stay in either a standard double or twin bedroom with an en-suite shower room. The bedrooms come equipped with a table and seating area, TV, hairdryer, telephone and complimentary Wi-Fi.

The Scandic is modern and comfortable. It offers a stylish and contemporary restaurant which combines both a café and an á la carte restaurant. You can also recharge your batteries in the hotel’s on-site sauna (available on request and subject to a supplement).

SORRISNIVA IGLOO HOTEL What better way to experience the Arctic than by spending a night at the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in a unique room constructed completely from snow and ice? We can arrange for you to upgrade and spend the night here if you wish to do so. Those who do choose to spend the night may also wish to make use of the hotel’s extremely well placed outdoor hot tubs! Many happy guests have enjoyed watching an Aurora display from these hot tubs each season (bookable and payable locally). Tucked up in an Arctic grade sleeping bag, and sleeping on an insulating mattress and reindeer hides, you will be well protected from the sub-zero temperatures. In the morning you can make full use of the hotel’s sauna prior to enjoying a filling breakfast in the hotel restaurant next door.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 © Visitnorway.com and Innovation Norway 2 © Scandic Hotel Alta 3 & 4 © Sorrisniva Igloo hotel

ALTA - TOWN OF THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

NORWAY

Holiday code: 27007

Alta is one of the most northerly towns in Norway and it has an excellent Aurora record. This three night holiday is packed with unforgettable experiences and activities, as well as some unique Northern Lights hunting trips. During your time in this remote corner of Norway you will try your hand at ice fishing and have a go at snowshoeing. You will also experience what it is like to travel by dog sled across the wilderness during a husky safari in stunning surroundings. Your evenings will be spent hunting the Northern Lights in spectacular fashion during an exhilarating snowmobile safari and a peaceful cruise on the Alta Fjord.

ALTA - AURORA HUNTING ADVENTURE

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel Meals: 4 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 1 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing for some activities, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Alta is a fascinating city and an excellent base from which to explore the fjords and mountains of this corner of Northern Norway.

At night you will partake in a dedicated hunt for the Northern Lights, will chase the Aurora by snowmobile, as well as taking to the water for an evening cruise on Alta Fjord for a different view.

To book call 01670 785 077

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1475 per person

Our four night holiday here is packed with experiences which will give you access to remote and beautiful landscapes, an insight into the culture of the Sámi people of Norway and the chance to experience some activity highlights. Obviously, the focus in the evenings is on searching for the Aurora.

1 1

Day 1: Flights, arrival and Northern Lights stake-out Day 2: Snowshoeing, ice fishing and Aurora snowmobile safari Day 3: Husky safari, Northern Lights Cathedral and Aurora cruise on Alta Fjord Day 4: Depart or extend your stay

To top off your break, you also have the chance to spend the night in the award-winning Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel for a seriously cool accommodation experience.

Holiday code: 27006 2

Duration: 3 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 20 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 3 nights’ hotel Meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing for most activities, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below

By day, you will meet the locals, try snowshoeing and ice fishing, as well as a choice between either a ‘Fatbike’ mountain bike trip or a guided tour of Alta. An evening dog sled safari and the chance to spend the night at an exceptional igloo hotel round off the range of experiences during this holiday.

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 27007

Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Arrival, introduction and Northern Lights hunt Sámi culture, reindeer sleigh ride, Igloo Hotel and Aurora snowmobile Snowshoeing, ice fishing and evening husky safari ‘Fatbike’ mountain biking or tour of Alta, evening cruise on Alta Fjord Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1895 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 27006

NORWAY

NORWAY KIRKENES

ACCOMMODATION

Kirkenes is very much a frontier town. This small Norwegian settlement is the most north-easterly in the country, residing on the border with Russia and offering an enticing mix of history, different cultures and ideal Northern Lights potential.

THON HOTEL KIRKENES

Known as the ‘Gateway to the East’ the town has a population of around 3,500 people and sits at around 70˚ north of the Arctic Circle. Despite its fairly nondescript appearance, it is a town which hides a wealth of history and culture. Just outside the town’s borders there is much for visitors to enjoy and a host of experiences which make the most of the surrounding mountains, fjords, forest and lakes. A popular activity in Kirkenes is the chance to catch one of the king crabs which dwell in the waters here.

Kirkenes also boasts a wonderful Snowhotel, giving you the chance to enjoy an unforgettable night’s sleep in a room made from snow and ice.

Located in a scenic quayside setting, the Thon Hotel in Kirkenes enjoys wonderful views across the surrounding Bøkfjorden Fjord. With its modern and bright Scandinavian décor, the hotel offers guests a friendly and comfortable base from which to explore. There are 144 rooms in total. Each has a double or twin bed in addition to an en-suite shower room, a hairdryer, a phone, minibar and a TV.

SCANDIC HOTEL The Scandic Hotel (formerly the Rica Arctic) is situated in the centre of the town of Kirkenes with excellent links to local transport and attractions. The hotel has 90 rooms in total. Each has a double or twin beds as well as en-suite shower room, hairdryer, phone and TV. There is an indoor swimming pool for guests to enjoy during their stay.

KIRKENES - NORWAY’S NORTHERN LIGHTS FRONTIER Holiday code: 27008

This wild frontier region of Norway is a spectacular place to explore and has much to offer those looking for an active Aurora holiday.

This Aurora hunting adventure gives you the chance to get to grips with this environment in a variety of ways. You will take part in an epic snowmobile safari along the Russian border and try out your dog sledding skills during an unforgettable husky trip. During the evenings you will hunt the Northern Lights in the remote Pasvik Valley with expert Aurora guides. This is prime Northern Lights territory and so you will have an excellent chance of witnessing Mother Nature’s greatest light show if conditions are right. To make sure you tick off the key highlights, you will feast on the freshest king crab you will ever try and will also visit the famous Snowhotel (with the chance to upgrade to spend the night). 1

To book call 01670 785 077

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel Meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing during some activities, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Arrival and welcome Day 2: Snowmobiling along the Russian border and Northern Lights hunt Day 3: Husky safari and Kirkenes Snowhotel Day 4: Free day and Northern Lights king crab snowmobile Day 5: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1645 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 27008

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

NORWAY TROMSØ

Norway NORWAY

Tromsø is situated on the northern coast of Arctic Norway, surrounded by magnificent mountain terrain and the deep waters of the Norwegian Sea. This far north of the Arctic Circle, cities tend to be built to withstand the elements rather than to be beautiful but we really believe Tromsø is the exception to the rule. It is a charming city with a beautiful cathedral, delightful streets of brightly coloured shops, and a wonderful harbour area where each of the ships seems to tell a tale of a life at sea. Tromsø is steeped in history and the incredible endeavours of Arctic explorers, who left the city’s shores for epic adventure, echo in the streets.

This is, however, a populated area and we are well aware that you will infinitely improve your chances of seeing the Aurora if you tear yourself away from the delightful restaurants and shops. Darker skies lie just beyond the city boundary and both of our holidays here take you away from the city lights in search of ideal Aurora viewpoints.

ACCOMMODATION

CLARION COLLECTION HOTEL AURORA This centrally located hotel is an ideal base for exploring this vibrant city and provides easy access to the main attractions. With 121 rooms the hotel is well equipped and provides a comfortable stay.

LAUKLINES SEASIDE CABINS During our Arctic Lights and Whale Island holiday, guests spend time at these self-catering seaside cabins. They can be found on the Island of Kvaløya, in the area of Lauklines. Set in a beautiful location alongside the Kattfjord these six seaside cabins offer peace and tranquillity. Built from ‘cog and notch’ timber they are insulated and clad to resemble traditional fishing cabins. As they are so close to the fjord, they provide some amazing sea views with the impressive mountains providing a dramatic backdrop.

SOMMARØY ARCTIC HOTEL During our Auroras over Sommarøy holiday, guests stay at the Sommarøy Artcic Hotel. Overlooking the sea and located within the tiny picturesque coastal town of Sommarøy, any stay here allows you to witness the Norwegian coastline at its best. The Sommarøy Arctic Hotel is located within a traditional fishing community and this means that you will get to sample some of the fruits of the sea in the hotel menus.

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To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 © Visitnorway.com and Innovation Norway 2 © Lauklines Seaside Cabins 3 © Sommaroy Arctic Hotel 4 © Francisco Damm & Tromso Adventure

TROMSØ - ARCTIC LIGHTS AND WHALE ISLAND

NORWAY

Holiday code: 28003

Having had some time in Tromsø to explore and soak up its charms, you will leave the city lights behind in the evenings and, accompanied by expert guides, go in search of Mother Nature’s greatest light show. You will meet with a Sámi reindeer herder and their family and get up close to huskies at a local kennel. Your base then moves to the stunning island of Kvaløya, where you can enjoy some serious escapism in your own waterside cabin. Aside from the Aurora, Kvaløya’s other main attractions are its marine and bird life. During a boat trip you will search for the majestic whales which pass this way each season or the seals and sea eagles which also inhabit this coastline (the whales tend to visit between November and January, following this season your cruise will be dedicated to other marine and bird life). This holiday allows you to enjoy the contrasts of this stunning part of Norway and ensures that you have an excellent chance of witnessing an Aurora display if the conditions are favourable.

TROMSØ - AURORAS OVER SOMMARØY Holiday code: 28004

Tromsø is one of the most well-known Aurora hunting destinations in Norway as it sits within the Aurora Zone and has much to offer visitors. This holiday allows you to experience the best that Tromsø has to offer during the day, before you head out at night and leave the city lights behind in search of the Aurora Borealis.

To book call 01670 785 077

Accommodation: 3 nights’ Tromsø hotel , 3 nights’ seaside cabin Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather, clothing in Lauklines, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Arrival in Tromsø Day 2: Tromsø city tour and Northern Lights hunt Day 3: Tromsø, Polaria and Aurora visit to a husky farm Day 4: Sámi culture, reindeer encounter and transfer to Kvaløya Day 5: Whale watching Day 6: Snowshoe hike Day 7: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1875 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 28003

Duration: 6 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Duration: 6 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Accommodation: 4 nights’ Tromsø hotel and 2 nights’ Sommarøy hotel Meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 6 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing at Sommarøy, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Following some exploration and cultural encounters, you then relocate to the Island of Sommarøy. The island is renowned for whale watching as these mammals follow herring shoals through the waters.The whales typically visit these waters between November and January and within this season guests will enjoy a cruise in search of them. Following the whale watching season guests will be treated to a wildlife and bird watching cruise instead.

Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5 Day 6: Day 7:

Your evenings are again filled with Northern Lights hunting trips but the beauty of Sommarøy is that you have a great opportunity to witness the Aurora by simply stepping outside the hotel.

Prices from: £1915 per person

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Arrival in Tromsø Tromsø city tour and Aurora hunt Time at leisure, Polaria and Aurora hunt Sámi culture and Northern Lights dinner cruise Husky safari and Aurora hunt Whale watching and Aurora hunt Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 28004

Photo Credits 1 @ Tromso Adventure 2 & 3 @ Francisco Damm & Tromso Adventure

NORWAY LYNGENFJORD

NORWAY

Deep within the Artic Circle is the tranquil Lyngenfjord – an appropriately named place, given that it originates from the word ‘logn’ which means ‘quiet’ or ‘still’. Meeting its shores are the grand slopes of the Lyngen Alps, an untouched mountain range, with peaks that tower 1500 metres above the waters of the fjord. This combination ensures some staggeringly beautiful scenery which is complemented even further by glaciers, beautiful mountain lakes and deep gorges.

Due to its positioning, 300km inside the Arctic Circle, this region is an ideal location from which to seek out prospective Aurora and dazzling displays are seen frequently here if the conditions are right. Your chances are further improved with our itinerary, which includes the likes of Aurora dog sledding and Northern Lights hunting with a renowned local photographer. This area is rich in heritage and you will see that the fishing industry and its traditions remain central to the region.

NORWAY - NORWAY LIGHTS OVER THE LYGENFJORD

Holiday code: 28005

This holiday takes you above the Arctic Circle and into an area of minimal light pollution, so your chances of seeing an Aurora display are high from the start. We try to further increase these chances during your stay and have included a range of Aurora hunts. You will seek out the Northern Lights during a husky safari and on dedicated hunts with expert Aurora guides. The memorable experiences are in no way confined to the hours of darkness. Your daytime activities include the likes of a moose safari, an island snowmobile adventure and an ice fishing trip. Snowshoe hire is also included in your holiday, so you are able to explore independently and make the most of the trails which surround the lodge. Your initial base at the Artic-Lyngen Seacamp Lodge is a comfortable and exclusive accommodation option with just three cabins. Your final night will be spent in Tromsø, providing an enjoyable contrast to your time in the wilderness.

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ARTIC-LYNGEN SEACAMP LODGE Located in Djupvik, a small village in the north east of Lyngenfjord, Artic-Lyngen Seacamp Lodge enjoys a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the famous Lyngen Alps. Here guests can expect modern and spacious accommodation in the three cabins, which have been designed to offer a comfortable base, whilst allowing a focus on the scenery. There are large windows overlooking the fjord and an outdoor terrace that is ideal for keeping a look out for an Aurora display.

CLARION COLLECTION HOTEL WITH Named after the pioneer, Captain Hans Rudolf With, Hotel With enjoys a central location on the quayside of Tromsø, ensuring excellent city views from most of the rooms. Its position is also central in relation to the city’s longstanding maritime history and its design is a reflection of this. From the accommodation guests can enjoy easy access to the restaurants, shops and attractions which the vibrant city Tromsø offers.

Duration: 6 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 12 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 5 nights cabin, 1 night Tromsø hotel Meals: 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 6 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing and snowshoe hire at Artic-Lyngen Seacamp Lodge, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7:

Flights, transfers and introduction Moose safari, Aurora hunt and photography Free day and Northern Lights husky safari Island snowmobile safari and ice fishing Free day and Aurora snowshoe Transfer to Tromsø Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £2115 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 28005

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To book call 01670 785 077

ACCOMMODATION

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 1 @ Credit Visit Lyngenfjord ® Jan R Olsen Foto 2 @ Jan Olsen 3 & 4 @ Visit Lyngenfjord

NORWAY AND FINLAND NELLIM AND KIRKENES

NORWAY AND FINLAND

This holiday gives you the opportunity to combine some of the highlights of Norway and Finland in one exceptional itinerary. You will explore cosmopolitan Oslo before heading north to Norway’s frontier with Russia and the remote outpost of Kirkenes. This area of Norwegian coast has an excellent Aurora record and an array of unique experiences to enjoy. These include the famous king crab safaris and a magnificent Snowhotel.

After two nights you will head to Finland’s wild north east and into the forests, lakes and fells that shape the landscape here. Spending four nights at Nellim Wilderness Hotel, you will explore in a variety of ways and enjoy some unforgettable experiences. Kirkenes and Nellim have many individual highlights but, of course, they are both situated in prime Aurora territory and therefore both offer guests some truly exceptional Northern Lights viewing opportunities.

KIRKENES AND NELLIM - THE ULTIMATE AURORA TRAIL Holiday code: 2200

We are thrilled to be able to offer our guests this itinerary which combines the Aurora delights of both Norway and Finland. After a night in Oslo you will fly to Kirkenes, a place which is famous for three things: the incredible king crabs which inhabit the sea, the award-winning Snowhotel and its excellent Northern Lights record; we have included the chance to tick all three attractions off your list during your time here. After your time in Kirkenes you head to Nellim in Finnish Lapland. Here you will travel across the frosted-landscape via snowshoe, snowmobile and husky sled. The allimportant Aurora activities are also included. Indeed Nellim has long been one of our most sought after destinations in which to witness the Northern Lights in all of their glory. This combination holiday offers guests the chance to experience the culture and beauty of two very special countries and two regions with exceptional Northern Lights potential.

ACCOMMODATION OSLO HOTEL Your first night will be spent in Oslo and you have the choice as to whether you stay in the city centre or at a convenient airport hotel. At the time of booking, our travel experts will provide you with the available options.

THON HOTEL KIRKENES This centrally located hotel is where you will spend your first two nights above the Arctic Circle. It is ideally placed to allow you to explore Kirkenes and its surrounding area. Further details of the hotel can be found on our website and on page 87.

NELLIM WILDERNESS HOTEL Nellim is a real favourite with our guests and provides a completely different style of accommodation to your first two destinations. This is a remote and spectacular place, close to the banks of vast Lake Inari and offering a family-run base from which to explore the wilds of Finnish Lapland. There are apartments, rooms, suites and cabins available here and our experts will be happy to provide a quote based on your preferred option. Further details can be found online and on page 17. Duration: 8 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation:

1 night Oslo, 2 nights’ Kirkenes, 5 nights’ Nellim in hotel room

Meals: 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing during activities, fully qualified guides and activities listed below Day 1: Overnight in Oslo Day 2: King crab and Northern Lights snowmobile Day 3: Husky safari and Kirkenes Snowhotel Day 4: Transfer to Nellim Day 5: Snowshoes and Aurora Camp Day 6: Husky safari and Aurora snowmobile safari Day 7: Snowmobiles, reindeer, ice fishing, Aurora Camp Day 8: Free day at Nellim Day 9: Depart or extend your stay Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £2825 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2200

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

NORWAY AND FINLAND

NORWAY AND FINLAND TROMSØ AND KILPISJÄRVI

ACCOMMODATION

This epic photography adventure starts with a night in the thriving Norwegian city of Tromsø before you cross the border into Finland and the wilderness of Kilpisjärvi.

CLARION COLLECTION HOTEL AURORA

Said to be the last outpost of North West Finland, Kilpisjärvi is situated in the ‘arm’ of Finland that meets the borders of Norway and Sweden. This is one of the last true wilderness regions of Europe, a place known for its spectacular Arctic scenery, excellent Northern Lights potential and truly remote location. Kilpisjärvi is only a small village in the Enontekiö municipality but has a fair few claims to fame. It is said to have some of the cleanest air in Europe as well as the longest winter and deepest snow in Finland. Finland’s highest Fell, Halti, is also not far away from this outpost. There is something quite magical about the wilds of Kilpisjärvi and if you come here and breathe in the fresh air, look upon the pristine layers of snow and hopefully see the sky alight with veils of colour, you will see why.

TROMSØ AND KILPISJÄRVI - PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE BORDERLANDS Holiday code: 2201

Kilpisjärvi is an absolute dream for a photographer, offering a huge variety of landscapes, scenery, wildlife and excellent Northern Lights opportunities. During this holiday you will be guided by photographer Gareth Hutton whose photography truly captures the spirit of Lapland. His knowledge and experience will help you capture the best possible images during your stay. Your evenings will be spent in search of the Aurora, with routes often taking you across the border into the Norwegian wilderness; whilst daytime excursions include a day with a reindeer herd and a visit to the Lyngen region of Norway – an idyllic destination. This is a unique opportunity to not only see some of the highlights of this landscape but also capture them on film – creating physical memories to last a lifetime.

This hotel enjoys a scenic location in the harbour area of the exciting city of Tromsø, and boasts a modern design. A light evening buffet is included for all guests along with breakfast before departure. The rooftop hot tub is one of our favourite places to relax after exploring the city’s highlights. You will spend the first night of your holiday in this hotel.

TUNDREA APARTMENTS Located on the edge of Kilpisjärvi, the comfortable Tundrea Apartments are situated around 1km from the village centre. They are a comfortable base for your stay and you are moments from excellent Aurora viewpoints. The group will share apartment accommodation. You will have your own bedroom but will share a bathroom. Other shared facilities include a kitchenette, drying cupboard and TV. Guests will also have access to the lakeside sauna (supplements may apply).

Duration: 5 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price

Accommodation: 1 night Tromsø hotel, 4 nights’ shared Kilpisjärvi apartments Meals: 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing for duration of your stay in Kilpisjärvi, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Day 6:

Flights, overnight in Tromsø Aurora photography workshop and Aurora hunt Day with reindeer herd and Aurora hunt Day trip to Lyngenfjord Snowcat excursion to three country border point, sauna experience and Aurora hunt Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1995 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 2201

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

SWEDEN, NORWAY AND FINLAND THE GRAND AURORA TOUR

SWEDEN, NORWAY AND FINLAND

This very special itinerary combines some of the highlights of Sweden, Finland and Norway in a Northern Lights grand tour. From the ICEHOTEL® in Sweden, you head to the heart of Finnish Lapland before striking north to the Norwegian coast. These areas are all within prime Aurora territory and offer some of the best Arctic experiences available.

THE ICEHOTEL® Located on the banks of the magnificent Torne River in the village of Jukkasjärvi, the ICEHOTEL® is the world’s original ice accommodation. You will spend the first night of this epic adventure in an Ice Room at this world famous hotel. Upgrades are available on request and subject to a supplement.

HARRINIVA WILDERNESS HOTEL 2

Ideally located in the north west corner of Finland, high above the Arctic Circle and in the very heart of the Aurora Zone, Harriniva Wilderness Hotel serves as a perfect base for some exceptional activities. You will spend three nights at this wonderful destination and will enjoy an unforgettable husky safari. It is also possible to upgrade to an overnight husky safari for those who are hungry for even more adventure. Please ask our Travel Experts for more information and a quotation.

CLARION COLLECTION HOTEL AURORA This hotel is well located in the harbour area of Tromsø and its modern design reflects this cosmopolitan city’s style. A light evening buffet and breakfast are included for all guests. The outdoor hot tub set on the rooftop is one of our favourite places to spend an evening in Tromsø. You will spend the fifth and eighth nights of your holiday here giving you plenty of time to enjoy the city.

MALANGEN BRYGGER You’ll find Malangen Brygger on the banks of the Malangen Fjord around 90 minutes away from Tromsø by car. This is a truly spectacular location with fjord views from all the apartment accommodation. The sixth and seventh nights of your holiday will be spent here.

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To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

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Photo Credits 1 ©Antti Pietikianen 2 © Christopher Hauser, Marcus Dillistone & Magdalena Åkerström & ICEHOTEL 3 © Bjørn Jørgensen - Visitnorway.com

THREE COUNTRIES - THE GRAND AURORA TOUR

SWEDEN, NORWAY AND FINLAND

Holiday code: 2009

This holiday has so many highlights that we basically can’t fit them all in the brochure! It’s a fabulous itinerary already but we but we also give you plenty of chances to upgrade to some serious optional extras if you want to push the boat out. After arrival in Swedish Lapland this tour starts in the coolest way possible, literally, as you spend the night in the original ICEHOTEL®. Your adventure then continues in Finnish Lapland with a three night stay at one of our favourite activity bases, for some dog sledding, some time to tailor your holiday and some serious Aurora hunting. Heading north to Norway you have time in Tromsø and then will head to the wilds of Malangen for two nights of Aurora hunting and days filled with cultural encounters and snowmobiling thrills. For full details of this epic Arctic tour, its extension and upgrade options, please visit our website. 1

Duration: 8 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 15 years and older All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 1 night ICEHOTEL® Ice Room, 3 nights’ Harriniva hotel 2 nights’ Tromsø hotel 2 nights’ Malangen Brygger Meals: 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 7 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing during some activities, fully qualified guides and activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5: Day 6: Day 7: Day 8: Day 9:

Flights, transfers and the ICEHOTEL® From Sweden to Finland, Aurora workshop Husky safari and Northern Lights minibus Tailor your time Northern Norway and the city of Tromsø Sámi culture, meeting reindeer, Malangen Brygger and Northern Lights hunt Snowmobile safari and a sauna with a view Free time, transfer to Tromsø, Aurora hunt Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £2875 per person

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To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

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ICELAND

ICELAND THE SOUTH SHORE

ACCOMMODATION

Iceland is quite simply unique.

HOTEL OÐINSVE

This remote island’s location in the Aurora Zone is of course a great attraction; however, Iceland also offers an abundance of other natural wonders which leave guests standing in awe. With lava fields, volcanoes, black sand beaches, steaming hot springs, geysers and glaciers to experience alongside the Aurora hunting, there really is nowhere quite like Iceland. Reykjavik, the most northerly capital in the world, boasts an excellent range of fine dining restaurants known for their imaginative cuisine and fresh local ingredients. Galleries, museums and theatres also offer guests an insight into a vibrant and sophisticated artistic culture.

Our holiday here is designed to showcase all of the above and allow you to experience as many of the wonders of Iceland as possible.

ICELAND - NATURAL WONDERS AND NORTHERN LIGHTS Holiday code: 29003

Iceland is known as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ with good reason. Volcanoes, glaciers, geysers and hot springs practically litter the south of the island and make it one of the most spectacular places in the world to witness the wonders of Mother Nature.

Iceland also boasts an enviable location within the Aurora Zone and, with a dedicated super jeep tour and two nights at the famed Hotel Rangá, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are very high. Starting with time in Reykjavik to enjoy the sights and sounds, you will leave the city lights behind on your second night as you head in search of the Aurora in darker skies. Once at Rangá your super jeep and guide will lead you on adventures around the South Shore, taking in the natural highlights of this very special island. Back at Rangá you can relax in the hot tub and watch the skies for the Northern Lights. Bliss! 1 1

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To book call 01670 785 077

Hotel Oðinsve, (pronounced ‘O-thin-svee-ah’) is a charming 4-star boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Reykjavik. The hotel has 43 rooms in total. The décor is modern and bright, emphasising Nordic ambience and comfort, with locally-sourced furnishings and wooden floors. All the rooms have an en-suite with shower and are fully equipped with TVs, hairdryers and minibars.

HOTEL RANGÁ As a charming 4-star hotel, Hotel Rangá is one of Iceland’s most sought after accommodation options. The hotel has an Aurora door knocking service and has earned an enviable reputation for Aurora viewing. The 24 guest bedrooms are en-suite and well equipped with TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, bath, shower, hairdryer and minibar. The rooms either have a view over the Hekla Volcano or the River Rangá.

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 16 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for : 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 2 nights’ Hotel Oðinsve, 2 nights’ Hotel Ranga Meals: Also included: Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

4 breakfasts, 3 dinners Flights, transfers, fully qualified guides and activities listed below

Flights, arrival and transfer Free day in Reykjavik and Northern Lights hunt Gulfoss, Geysir and Rangá Fire and Ice Departure via Blue Lagoon or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1792 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 29003

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

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GREENLAND

Greenland is a country that seems like a distant land of adventure and mystery but, for the lucky few travellers who venture here, it is an unforgettable place to experience. Greenland sits between America and Europe and is the world’s largest and most sparsely populated island, with a population of only 56,000 (approx), an average of 0.14 people per square kilometre. As well as a seemingly endless landscape of breathtaking natural scenery, a visit here will allow you to explore a country of rich traditions, spectacular wildlife and the Aurora Borealis. 1

HOTEL ARCTIC, ILULLISAT Greenlandic for ‘icebergs’, Ilulissat refers to a charming town on the west coast of Greenland, home to around 4,600 inhabitants and one of the best places above the Arctic Circle to view the Northern Lights. Located 1.7 miles from the mouth of the Ice Fjord, Hotel Arctic is the world’s most northerly 4-star hotel. It is proud of its excellent reputation and makes for a modern and welcoming base for your Greenlandic adventures.

The hotel has a variety of comfortable rooms which offer views of the town and harbour. Each has an en-suite bathroom or shower room and facilities including TV, radio and hairdryer.

HOTEL KANGERLUSSUAQ Kangerlussuaq, meaning ‘Big Fjord’ in Greenlandic serves as the main gateway to the inland ice cap of Greenland. Home to one of the more major airfields and with a population of around 500 people, it offers wilderness scenery, excellent Aurora potential and an exciting array of excursions.

Hotel Kangerlussuaq is a traditional and friendly hotel in the small community of Kangerlussuaq which welcomes over 20,000 passing travellers each year. As well as offering a range of tasty food and a welcoming atmosphere, the hotel also serves as an excellent base for your adventures in Greenland. Rooms here are basic but comfortable and each features an en-suite bathroom as well as a TV and phone. There are 70 rooms in total with suite upgrades available.

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To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

Photo Credits 3 © Visit Greenland André Schoenherr and David Trood 4 © Visit Greenland André Schoenherr and Karsten Bidstrup

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ILULLISAT - AURORAS OVER THE ICE FJORD

GREENLAND

Holiday code: 28001

For those looking to see the majestic icebergs of Greenland, whilst having the chance to witness the Northern Lights, then Ilulissat is definitely the place to be. Here visitors can marvel upon the majestic Ice Fjord, a UNESCO protected site which showcases the natural beauty and drama of the Earth with its floating icebergs. You can watch and listen to the glacier as ice calves off down into the fjord, an aweinspiring sight. A small community, home to a handful of shops and restaurants, Ilulissat is a friendly and welcoming base for your Greenlandic adventure. As well as being home to the beautiful Ice Fjord, which you will visit during your holiday, it is also a prime spot to enjoy some traditional dog sledding and snowshoeing activities. At night you will head out on snowshoes and snowmobiles to keep watch for the Aurora.

This is simply an incredible destination.

KANGERLUSSUAQ - ICE CAP AURORAS Holiday code: 28002

Greenland is an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime type of place, offering guests roaming wildlife, seemingly un-ending glacial landscapes, wild wilderness, a fascinating culture and a serious sense of adventure. On this trip you will be based in the region of Kangerlussuaq, a tiny community on the west coast of the island. This small village actually serves as one of the main transport hubs for Greenland, as well as providing a base for Arctic adventures exploring the incredible inland ice cap. On this trip, three of your evenings will be spent with your guide at a local vantage point keeping a close watch on the sky for a potential Aurora. During the day you will get a close up view of the ice cap, as well as the chance to meet with delightful Greenlandic huskies during a thrilling dog sledding experience as your musher leads the way across the ice and snow. 1

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Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel Meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, traditional cold weather clothing (fur) for the duration of your stay, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Flights, arrival and welcome Guided tour to the Ice Fjord and Aurora snowshoe Guided snowshoe walk and Aurora snowmobiling Husky adventure or iceberg cruise (depending on conditions) and Aurora snowshoeing Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £2225 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 28001

Duration: 4 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 24 people Pace: Active Suitable for: 15 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 4 nights’ hotel Meals: 4 breakfasts Also included: Flights, transfers, traditional cold weather clothing (fur) for the duration of your stay, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5

Flights, transfer and introduction Kangerlussuaq - guided tour and Aurora hunt Exploring the ice cap and Aurora hunt Husky safari and Aurora hunt Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1695 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 28002

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

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CANADA THE YUKON

CANADA

Situated between British Columbia and the Arctic Ocean, The Yukon is Canada’s most north-western province. A massive sprawling area covering some 186,000 miles, yet home to only 35,000 people. Wilderness really is the key word and the vast stretch of untouched landscape and minimal light pollution make it one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. Winters here offer low temperatures, with plentiful snow and crisp, winter days making it ideal for adventures via husky sled, snowmobile or sleigh. Whitehorse is a buzzing provincial capital and Dawson City a close second, whilst spectacular Kluane National Park is home to giant mountain peaks, winding glaciers and the world’s largest sub-Arctic ice field. Tombstone Park also offers a unique wilderness of granite peaks, rolling hills and alpine lakes. These are locations where you can experience true wilderness, alongside an incredible opportunity to watch the sky come alive with colour as the Northern Lights dance across the darkness.

CANADA - NORTHERN LIGHTS IN THE YUKON Holiday code: 28000

It is said that in The Yukon ‘north is not just a place, but a state of mind’ and once you have experienced this breathtakingly vast and beautiful landscape you will begin to understand this saying. During this trip, we offer a taste of this incredible environment and by the end of your stay, you will have enjoyed some of the unending wilderness that makes up the province, as well as hopefully witnessing the unique phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis. You will try out dog sledding and will tour the famous Tombstone Park for a chance to see some of the region’s wildlife.

ACCOMMODATION NORTHERN LIGHTS RESORT AND SPA With its ideal location close to some of The Yukon’s most remarkable wilderness, the Northern Lights Resort and Spa is not only a prime location from which to seek out the Aurora, but also an excellent starting point for many of the winter adventures which can be enjoyed here.

THE AURORA INN The Aurora Inn offers a friendly and personal service, alongside a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. The hospitable hosts will be on hand to share their in-depth knowledge of the Dawson City region and its history. They strive to make the hotel feel like a ‘home away from home’.

WESTMARK With its convenient location in the heart of downtown Whitehorse, the Westmark is within easy walking distance of the provincial capital’s attractions, shops and restaurants. Furnished in a simple but comfortable style, this hotel is an ideal base for exploring Whitehorse as well as offering a relaxing and friendly welcome.

Duration: 7 nights Group size (approx): Maximum 8 people Pace: Balanced Suitable for: 18 years and over All of the services and activities below are included in the holiday price Accommodation: 3 nights’ Northern Lights Resort, 2 nights’ Aurora Inn and 2 nights’ Whitehorse, all in hotel rooms Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 dinners Also included: Flights, transfers, cold weather clothing for duration of your stay, fully qualified guides and the activities listed below

To top it all off, you will take part in a snowmobile safari in the mountains that surround Whitehorse.

Day 1: Day 2: Day 3: Day 4: Day 5:

Evenings will be spent keeping watch for the Aurora, with your guide on hand to assist you in photographing the lights throughout.

Day 6: Day 7: Day 8:

There really isn’t anywhere else quite like this!

Arrival, welcome and Aurora watch Husky safari and Aurora watch Free day and Aurora watch Walking tour of Dawson City and Aurora hunt Dempster Highway to Tombstone Mountains, Aurora hunt Return to Whitehorse Snowmobile safari Depart or extend your stay

Please note that the order of activities may change

Prices from: £1795 per person

Full details and prices can be found on our website Search for holiday code 28000

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To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

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FINANCIAL PROTECTION COMPLETE PROTECTION WITH ATOL AND ABTA We know that your holiday will be one of the most important investments you make in a year and we understand how important it is for you to know that you are financially protected and that your money is secure. You may book with confidence as we are a fully bonded member of ABTA (ABTA number Y6261) which means that you have the benefit of ABTA’s code of conduct and your money is fully protected regardless of whether we are arranging your flights for you or not. We also hold an Air Travel Organiser’s License issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 6865). When you buy a flight inclusive holiday* from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information from and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). *The flight- inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. Those not protected under our ATOL are fully financially protected by a bond held with Zurich Insurance Plc and our ABTA membership. For full details on your ATOL and ABTA protection please see our website. Details can be found in the About Us section, under Financial Protection. If you have any questions relating to financial protection, please do not hesitate to contact us as two of members of our management team used to work within the CAA. They will be more than happy to take you through any concerns that you may have and will put your mind at rest.

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THE AITO QUALITY CHARTER AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. The member companies, usually ownermanaged, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating.

EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct.

FINANCIAL SECURITY An AITO member is required to arrange financial protection for all holidays and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by customers with the member under the AITO logo. This financial protection applies to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and to overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. In doing so, the member must comply with UK Government regulations. Members are required to submit details of their financial protection arrangements to AITO on a regular basis.

ACCURATE BROCHURES AND WEBSITES AITO members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AND CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENTS All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards.

MONITORING STANDARDS AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday questionnaire, the results of which are scrutinised by the Association.

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM Members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s Sustainable Tourism ethos, which recognises the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.

CUSTOMER RELATIONS All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, AITO’s low-cost Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion.

OUR PEACE OF MIND PROMISE We want to make sure you feel reassured from the moment you get a reply to your enquiry, right through to returning from your holiday. Therefore, we have created our Peace of Mind Promise to highlight a few things which will help you completely relax and focus on the important task of enjoying your holiday. If something unexpected, which is covered in the terms listed on our website, occurs before your holiday departure then our team will do everything possible to rearrange your holiday, should it be cancelled. If it is not possible to rearrange your holiday then you will receive a full refund of your holiday cost. We’re also there for you while you are on holiday so if something does go wrong, our operations team are on call 24 hours a day should something unexpected occur that impacts on your holiday. If we have to rearrange, curtail or abandon the itinerary whilst you are away then we will arrange this without extra cost or undue stress to you.

Travel insurance is a pre-requisite to travelling with Aurora Zone. For those policies which do insure against delays, curtailment and cancellation, claims must be presented to your insurer in the first instance. If you are unable to claim this back from your insurance company then we will reimburse you. Terms and conditions apply, see website for further details. Our operations team also receive immediate updates from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office regarding all destinations we feature. The safety of our clients is of absolutely paramount importance and we will always adhere to any travel advice from the FCO.

TRAVEL INSURANCE Travel insurance is a pre-requisite to any booking with us and is a vital part of any holiday. Travel insurance is not provided as part of any of our holidays and so you will need to ensure that you have cover for all of the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday. If you would like to obtain cover for your trip please feel free to contact specialist insurance brokers, Campbell Irvine for a quote via our website. Details of how to do so can be found in the About Us section of our website under Trip Preparation. The policy agreement is listed under our parent company The Artisan Travel Company Limited. If you decide not to purchase travel insurance from our preferred provider, you must ensure that any alternative insurance provides adequate medical, activity and cancellation cover. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is adequate for your particular needs. The Artisan Travel Company is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Campbell Irvine Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Full details can be found on our website and in our booking conditions.

To book call 01670 785 077

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

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TERMS & CONDITIONS These conditions are applicable to all destinations except Canada and details of the terms which cover our holiday in The Yukon can be found on our website. Please note that the prices and booking conditions published on our website supercede those printed in any of our brochures.

Dependent on the type of air fares or tickets which are being purchased it may be required for us to take the full payment for your flight costs (non-refundable) or other tickets at the time of booking. This will be discussed with you prior to booking the holiday and will also be included in your holiday quotation.

The following Booking Conditions together with the General Information contained in all of our brochures and websites form the basis of your contract with The Artisan Travel Company Limited t/as The Aurora Zone members of ABTA. Please read them carefully as they set out our respective rights and obligations. In these Booking Conditions, “you” and “your” means the lead name on the booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date). “We”, “us” and “our” means The Artisan Travel Company Limited t/ as The Aurora Zone

The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us not less than nine weeks prior to departure. The due date will be shown on the confirmation invoice. Reminders are not sent. If we do not receive all payments due (including any surcharge where applicable) in full and on time, we are entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking. In this case, we will be entitled to keep all deposits paid or due at that date. If we do not cancel straight away because you have promised to make payment, you must pay the cancellation charges shown in clause 7 depending on the date we reasonably treat your booking as cancelled.

1. MAKING YOUR BOOKING

3. YOUR CONTRACT

The person making the booking (“the party leader”) must be at least 18 and must be authorised to make the booking on the basis of these Booking Conditions by all persons named on the booking. By making the booking, the party leader confirms that he/she is so authorised and that all party members agree to be bound by these Booking Conditions. The party leader is responsible for making all payments due to us. Once we have received your booking and all appropriate payments, we will, subject to availability, confirm your holiday by issuing a confirmation invoice. This invoice will be sent to the party leader or your travel agent. Please check this invoice carefully as soon as you receive it. Contact us immediately if any information which appears on the confirmation or any other document appears to be incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to make changes later. We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracies in any document within ten days of our sending it out (five days for tickets).

Subject to clause 1, a binding contract between us comes into existence when we send a booking reference number to the party leader or your travel agent. We both agree that English Law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (except as set out below). We both also agree that any dispute, claim or other matter of any description (and whether or not involving any personal injury) which arises between us must be dealt with by the Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract and any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not choose to do so, English law will apply).

At the same time as sending you or your travel agent our confirmation invoice we will also send a link to our online booking form. The party leader must confirm that they have read and understood all the information on the form and that all details are correct by ticking the necessary box on the online system. If we do not receive the confirmation within 5 days of the date specified on the confirmation invoice we shall be entitled to cancel your booking without penalty to ourselves. If we cancel your booking we shall refund all deposits paid to us by that point but we shall have no further liability towards you.

Changes to these Booking Conditions or the General Information shown in our brochure will only be valid if agreed by us in writing. Please note that the prices and booking conditions published on our website supercede those printed in any of our brochures.

2. PAYMENT In order to confirm your chosen holiday, a minimum deposit will be required which will vary depending on the holiday that you are booking. The deposit payment will be detailed in your holiday quotation and must be paid at the time of booking. If you are travelling within nine weeks of departure, then the full balance will be payable at the time of booking.

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4. ABTA We are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y6261. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of this contract. The scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It is a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you for costs. The upper limit on claims is £5,000 per person and £25,000 per booking form. The scheme doesn’t apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences. It can however deal with claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a limit of £1,500 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person in respect of this element. Your request for arbitration must

be received by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com.

will be able to meet any such requests. Where we can assist, an amendment fee of £20 per person/per booking will be payable together with any costs incurred by ourselves and any costs or charges incurred or imposed by any of our suppliers.

5. THE COST OF YOUR HOLIDAY

Should you or any member of your party need to cancel your chosen holiday once it has been confirmed, the party leader must immediately advise us in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only be effective when it is received in writing by us at our offices.

We reserve the right to increase or decrease the prices of unsold holidays at any time. The price of your chosen holiday will be confirmed at the time of booking.

7. CANCELLATION BY YOU

Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking then, subject to the correction of errors, we will only increase or decrease the price in the following circumstances. Price increases after booking will be passed on by way of a surcharge. A surcharge will be payable if transportation costs and/or dues, taxes or fees payable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or airports increase or our costs increase as a result of any adverse changes in the exchange rates which have been used to calculate the cost of your holiday. Even in the above cases, we will absorb increased costs up to a total amount equivalent to 2% of the cost of your confirmed holiday (excluding any amendment charges). Only if the increased costs exceed this 2% will we levy a surcharge. If any surcharge is greater than 10% of the cost of your holiday (excluding any amendment charges), you will be entitled to cancel your booking and receive a full refund of all monies paid to us except for amendment charges or alternatively, purchase another holiday from us as referred to in clause 9 “Changes and Cancellations by us”.

As we incur costs from the time we confirm your booking and may be unable to re-sell your holiday, the following cancellation charges will be payable. Where the cancellation charge is shown as a percentage, this is calculated on the basis of the total cost payable by the person(s) cancelling excluding any amendment / cancellation charges which have already been incurred.

You have 14 days from the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice to tell us if you want to cancel for this reason. If you do not tell us that you wish to cancel within this period of time, we are entitled to assume that you do not wish to cancel and will pay the surcharge. Any surcharge must be paid with the balance of the cost of the holiday or within 14 days of the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice, whichever is the later. Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.

- 63 to 43 days prior to departure - 40%

If any member of your party celebrates a birthday during your proposed holiday period they will be charged the rate based on their age on the return date of travel for the whole duration of the holiday. A refund will only be payable if the decrease in our costs exceeds 2% as set out above. Where a refund is due, we will pay you the full amount of the decrease in our costs. We promise not to levy a surcharge within 30 days of departure. No refunds will be payable within this period either. We reserve the right to correct errors in both advertised and confirmed prices. We will do so as soon as we become aware of the error. Please note, changes and errors occasionally occur. You must check the price of your chosen holiday at the time of booking. 6. CHANGES BY YOU Should you wish to make any changes to your confirmed holiday, you must notify us in writing as soon as possible. Whilst we will endeavour to assist, we cannot guarantee we

Amendment / cancellation charges are not refundable in the event of the person(s) to whom they apply cancelling. Depending on the reason for cancellation, you may be able to reclaim these cancellation charges (less any applicable excess) under the terms of your insurance policy. Claims must be made directly to the insurance company concerned. Period before departure within which written notification of cancellation is received by us (cancellation charge per person cancelling): - More than 63 days prior to departure - Loss of deposit

- 42 to 29 days prior to departure - 60% - 28 to 15 days prior to departure - 80% - 14 or less days - 100% Please note: no refunds will be given in respect of activities which you book and then do not take part in whilst on holiday (for example you miss the start time of the activity because you have overslept, are hung over or under the influence of drugs or simply change your mind). If any member(s) of your party is/are prevented from travelling, the person(s) concerned will be able to transfer their place to someone else (introduced by you) providing the following requirements are complied with. We must be notified of the transfer(s) not less than two weeks before departure. A transfer will not be possible if there is a waiting list for places in which case the available place must be offered to the next person on that list. Where a transfer to a person of your choice can be made, all costs and charges incurred by us and/or incurred or imposed by any of our suppliers as a result together with an amendment fee of £20 must be paid before the transfer can be affected. For flight inclusive bookings, you must pay the charges levied by the airline concerned. As most airlines have restrictions on name changes once confirmed and many do not permit name changes after tickets have been issued for any reason, these charges are likely to be the full cost of repurchasing the flight at its current price (subject to availability).

8. INSURANCE We consider adequate and appropriate travel insurance to be a pre-requisite to booking. Details of our preferred travel insurance provider are shown elsewhere in this brochure. If you decide not to purchase travel insurance from our preferred provider, you must ensure that any alternative insurance provides adequate medical and cancellation cover. Please bear in mind that not all alternative insurance policies may offer cover for the sort of activities you may be taking part in during your holiday. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is adequate for your particular needs. We do not check alternative insurance policies. The Artisan Travel Company Ltd is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Campbell Irvine Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. 9. CHANGES AND CANCELLATION BY US We start planning the holidays we offer many months in advance. Occasionally, we have to make changes to and correct errors and other details both before and after bookings have been confirmed and cancel confirmed bookings. Whilst we always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, we must reserve the right to do so. However, we promise we will only cancel your confirmed booking 9 weeks or less before departure where you have failed to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or where we are forced to do so as a result of circumstances outside our control/”force majeure” as defined in clause 10 below. We will not cancel after this date for any other reason. Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a “significant change”. “Significant changes” include the following changes when made before departure; a change of accommodation to that of a lower official classification or standard for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of accommodation area for the whole or a major part of the time you are away, a change of outward departure time or overall length of time you are away of twelve or more hours (where transfers to and from the UK form part of the arrangements you have booked with us), the closure of the only or all advertised swimming pool(s) at your accommodation for an extended period and, in the case of tours, a significant change of itinerary missing out one or more major destinations substantially or altogether. Some examples of minor changes include: alteration of your outward/ return flights by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same or higher standard, changes of carriers. If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you as soon as possible. If there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options:(a) (for significant changes) accepting the changed arrangements or (b) purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar standard to that originally booked if available. We will offer you at least one alternative holiday of equivalent or higher standard for which you will not be asked to pay any more than the price of the original holiday. If this holiday is in fact cheaper than the original one, we will refund the price

difference. If you do not wish to accept the holiday we specifically offer you, you may choose any of our other then available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday. This will mean you paying more if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is cheaper. (c) cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us. Please note, the above options are not available where any change made is a minor one. Furthermore, the substitution of sporting activities, at least to a similar alternative, or a change in the order of any activities you are due to carry out will be considered as a minor change. If we have to make a significant change or cancel before departure, we will pay you reasonable compensation subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where (1) we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care or (2) we have to cancel because the minimum number of bookings necessary for us to operate your holiday has not been reached - in this case we will notify you by the deadline specified. No compensation will be payable if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time). In all cases, our liability for significant changes and cancellations is limited to offering you the above mentioned options and, where applicable, we will pay compensation as detailed below except where the major change or cancellation arises due to reasons of force majeure. The compensation that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so. No compensation is payable for minor changes. Period before departure when a significant change or cancellation is notified to you Compensation per person More than 60 days before departure:

Nil

60 – 22 days before departure:

£20

21 – 15 days before departure:

£30

14 – 8 days before departure:

£40

7 – 0 days before departure:

£50

Very rarely, we may be forced by “force majeure” (see clause 10) to change or terminate your holiday after departure but before the scheduled end of your time away. This is extremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur as a result. NB. If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline in circumstances which would entitle you to claim compensation against the airline under EC Regulation No 261/2004 - the Denied Boarding Regulations 2004, you must pursue the

To book call 01670 785 077

airline for the compensation due to you. All sums you receive or are entitled to receive from the airline concerned by virtue of these Regulations represent the full amount of your entitlement to compensation or any other payment arising from such cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied boarding. This includes any disappointment, distress, inconvenience or effect on any other arrangements. The fact a delay may entitle you to cancel your flight does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other arrangements even where those arrangements have been made in conjunction with your flight. We have no liability to make any payment to you in relation to the Denied Boarding Regulations or in respect of any flight cancellation or delay, downgrading of any flight ticket or denial of any boarding as the full amount of your entitlement to any compensation or other payment (as dealt with above) is covered by the airline’s obligations under the Denied Boarding Regulations. If, for any reason, you do not claim against the airline and make a claim for compensation from us, you must, at the time of payment of any compensation to you, make a complete assignment to us of the rights you have against the airline in relation to the claim that gives rise to that compensation payment. If your airline does not comply with these rules you may complain to the Civil Aviation Authority on 020 7453 6888 or by e-mail to passengercomplaints@caa.co.uk or see www.caa.co.uk – Referring Your Complaint to the CAA. 10. FORCE MAJEURE Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss (as more fully described in clause 11(1) below) as a result of “force majeure”. In these Booking Conditions, “force majeure” means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. These events can include (but are not limited to), for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, terrorist activity and its consequences, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, epidemics and pandemics, unavoidable technical problems with transport. 11. OUR LIABILITY TO YOU (1) We promise to make sure that the holiday arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract with you are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these booking conditions, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or your contracted holiday arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted holiday arrangements. Please note it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers).

Find out more at www.theaurorazone.com

(2) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (for example loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following: - the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or - the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or - ‘force majeure’ as defined in clause 10 above (3) Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services, activities or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services, activities or facilities are not advertised in our brochure and we have not agreed to arrange them and any excursion you purchase in resort. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any of our brochures or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you. (4) The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract - and the laws and regulations of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred - will be used as the basis for deciding whether the services in question had been properly provided. If the particular services which gave rise to the claim or complaint complied with local laws and regulations applicable to those services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws and regulations of the UK which would have applied had those services been provided in the UK. (5) As set out in these booking conditions we limit the maximum amount we may have to pay you for any claims you may make against us. Where we are found liable for loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions (including money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you is £25 per person affected unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under this clause or clause 11 (6) below. For all other claims which do not involve death or personal injury, if we are found liable to you on any basis the maximum amount we will have to pay you is twice the holiday price (excluding amendment charges) paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under clause 11(6) below. This maximum amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you have not received any benefit at all from your holiday. (6) Where any claim or part of a claim concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on and off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea, rail or road carrier or any stay in a hotel, the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you will be limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier or hotel keeper concerned would have to pay under the international convention which applies to the travel arrangements or hotel stay in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and/or for

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airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens convention for international travel by sea). Please note: Where a carrier or hotel would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable International Convention or Regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the transport provider or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question. Copies of the applicable International Conventions and Regulations are available from us on request. (7) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description (1) which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you or (2) which did not result from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for any business losses. (8) You must provide ourselves and our insurers with all assistance we may reasonably require. You must also tell us and the supplier concerned about your claim or complaint as set out in clause 12 below. If asked to do so, you must transfer to us or our insurers any rights you have against the supplier or whoever else is responsible for your claim or complaint (if the person concerned is under 18, their parent or guardian must do so). You must also agree to cooperate fully with us and our insurers if we or our insurers want to enforce any rights which are transferred. 12. COMPLAINTS AND PROBLEMS If you have a problem during your holiday, please inform the relevant supplier (e.g. your hotelier) and our resort representative immediately who will endeavour to put things right. If your complaint is not resolved locally, please follow this up within 28 days of your return home by writing to our Customer Services Department at Suite 2, Netherton Park, Stannington, Northumberland, NE61 6EF giving your booking reference and all other relevant information. Please keep your letter concise and to the point. It is strongly recommended that you communicate any complaint to the supplier of the services as well as to our representative without delay and give written notice detailing your complaint whilst in resort. If you fail to follow this simple procedure we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify your complaint whilst you were in resort and this may affect your rights under this contract. Please also see clause 4 above relating to ABTA. 13. BEHAVIOUR When you book with us, you accept responsibility for any damage or loss caused by you or any member of your party. Full payment for any such damage or loss must be paid direct at the time to the accommodation owner or manager or other supplier. If you fail to do so, you will be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us (together with our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result of your actions.

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We expect all clients to have consideration for other people. If in our reasonable opinion or in the reasonable opinion of any other person in authority, you or any member of your party behaves in such a way as to cause or be likely to cause danger, upset or distress to any third party or damage to property, we are entitled, without prior notice, to terminate the holiday of the person(s) concerned or we and the relevant person in authority (for example the activity provider) can prevent that person(s) from taking part in the activity(ies) concerned. In this situation, the person(s) concerned will be required to leave the accommodation or other service or activity area (as applicable). We will have no further responsibility toward such person(s) including any return travel arrangements. No refunds will be made and we will not pay any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the termination or prevention from taking part in the activity(ies) concerned. 14. CONDITIONS OF SUPPLIERS Many of the services which make up your holiday are provided by independent suppliers. Those suppliers provide these services in accordance with their own terms and conditions. Some of these terms and conditions may limit or exclude the supplier’s liability to you, usually in accordance with applicable International Conventions (see clause 11 (6)). Copies of the relevant parts of these terms and conditions are available on request from us or the supplier concerned. 15. SPECIAL REQUESTS, HEALTH, FITNESS, AND MEDICAL CONDITIONS/DISABILITIES If you have any special request, you must advise us at the time of booking. Although we will endeavour to pass any reasonable requests on to the relevant supplier, we regret we cannot guarantee any request will be met unless we have specifically confirmed this. For your own protection, you should obtain confirmation in writing from us that your request will be complied with (where it is possible for us to give this) if your request is important to you. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. We regret we cannot accept any conditional bookings, i.e. any booking which is specified to be conditional on the fulfilment of a particular request. All such bookings will be treated as “standard” bookings subject to the above provisions on special requests. In order to take part in sporting activities, all persons should be in good health and possess a reasonable basic level of fitness. If you are unsure about the physical demands of a particular holiday please ask us and we can advise you accordingly. If you or any member of your party is pregnant or has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements as a result of any medical condition or disability (including any which affect the booking process), please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or making the booking. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking and whenever any change in the condition or disability occurs. You must also promptly advise us if you become pregnant or any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed.

If you wish to partake in any water sports you must be able to swim at least 25 metres. If you wish to participate in any of our scuba diving programmes please consult your doctor prior to departure with particular regard to medical history, medication and any pre-existing conditions such as perforated ear drums, high blood pressure, asthma etc. You may be required to provide evidence of scuba diving or other qualifications prior to being allowed to take part in scuba diving or other activities. We will advise you if this is the case. If you fail to produce such evidence when it is requested you will not be allowed to participate in the activity concerned. In the event of this we will not provide any refunds or compensation or pay any expenses which you may incur as a result. Please note: some of the activities we offer (for example but not limited to White-Water Rafting, Canyoning, Hydrospeeding, Rock Climbing, Kayaking, Mountain Biking or Cycling, Via Ferrata, Trekking, Gorge Scrambling, Abseiling, Canoeing, High Ropes Courses, Caving, Skydiving, Tubing, Tyrotrekking, Horse Riding, River Trekking, Water sports, Sailing, Dog Sledding, Snowmobiling, Cross-country Skiing, Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding, Ice Climbing, Snowshoeing, Tobogganing, Snow Rafting or similar), carry their own inherent risks and by booking such activities you acknowledge that you are exposing yourself to such risks. 16. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS The passport, visa and health requirements applicable at the time of printing to British citizens for the holidays we offer are detailed in our trip dossiers. A full British passport presently takes approximately 4 weeks to obtain. If you or any member of your party is 16 or over and haven’t yet got a passport, our recommendation is that you should apply for one at least 6 weeks before your holiday. The UK Passport Service has to confirm your identity before issuing your first passport and will ask you to attend an interview in order to do this. Requirements may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure with the Embassy or consulate of the country(ies) you are travelling through and to. Information on health is contained in the Department of Health leaflet T6 (Health Advice for Travellers) available from your local Department of Health office and most Post Offices. For holidays in the EEA you should obtain an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) prior to departure. NB: this card replaced the E111 which is no longer valid. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry correct documentation. If you or any member of your party is not a British citizen or holds a non British passport, you must check passport and visa requirements with the Embassy or Consulate of the country(ies) to or through which you are intending to travel. If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly. 17. BROCHURE ACCURACY Please note, the information and prices shown in the brochure may have changed by the time you come to book your holiday. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the brochure and prices at the time of printing, regrettably

errors do occasionally occur. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us (or your travel agent) at the time of booking. Please note that the booking conditions and prices detailed on our website supercede those printed within our brochure. This brochure is our sole responsibility. It is not issued on behalf of and does not commit any independent organisation/carriers whose services are featured in it. 18. DELAY We regret we are not in a position to offer you any assistance in the event of delay at your outward or homeward point of departure. Any airline concerned may however provide refreshments etc. We cannot accept liability for any delay which is due to any of the reasons set out in clause 11 (2) of these booking conditions (which includes the behaviour of any passenger(s) on the flight who, for example, fails to check in or board on time). In addition, we will not be liable for any delay unless it has a significant effect on your holiday arrangements. 19. SAFETY STANDARDS Please note, it is the requirements and standards of the country in which any services which make up your holiday are provided which apply to those services and not those of the UK. As a general rule, these requirements and standards will not be the same as the UK and may sometimes be lower. 20. FLIGHTS In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community list” which contains details of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban with the EU Community. The Community list is available for inspection at http://europa. eu.int/comm/ transport/air/safety/flywell_en.htm. In accordance with EU Regulations we are required to advise you of the carrier(s) (or, if the carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. We are not always in a position at the time of booking to confirm the aircraft type and flight timings which will be used in connection with your flight. Any flight timings and types of aircraft shown in this brochure and detailed on your confirmation invoice are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. The latest timings will be shown on your tickets which will be dispatched to you approximately two weeks before departure. You must accordingly check your tickets very carefully immediately on receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. It is possible that flight times may be changed even after tickets have been dispatched - we will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs. Any change in the identity of the carrier, flight timings, and/or aircraft type will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying our normal charges except where specified in these conditions.

cancellation by us) will apply. 21. FINANCIAL SECURITY You may book with confidence as we are a fully bonded member of ABTA (ABTA number Y6261) which means that you have the benefit of ABTA’s code of conduct and your money is fully protected regardless of whether we are arranging your flights for you or not. We also hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 6865). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday* from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit, you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent or your credit card issuer where applicable. You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. *The flight- inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. For further information visit the ATOL website at www. atol.org.uk. We provide full financial protection for those packages not protected by ATOL by way of a bond held with Zurich Insurance Plc. We are also members of ABTA (Number Y6261).

THE AURORA ZONE IS PART OF... A collection of three independent brands built by the same group of travel experts. All of our brands are underpinned by our strong belief in personal service and our exceptional product knowledge. Our travel experts are always on hand to give you first-hand advice on any of our holidays.

Activities Abroad specialise in year-round active family holidays, taking in Europe, Scandinavia and some spectacular long-haul destinations. We use our own families’ experiences to craft award-winning family holidays.

www.activitiesabroad.com

The Aurora Zone is the original and the only dedicated Northern Lights specialist tour operator, offering the widest range of Northern Lights holidays for adults across Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Greenland and Canada.

www.theaurorazone.com

Artisan Travel provides unique, handcrafted holidays which marry expertise and local knowledge to provide unforgettable year-round experiences for adults. Destinations include Scandinavia, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, Alaska, and the Mediterranean.

www.artisantravel.co.uk

If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative the provisions of clause 9 (Changes and

To find book call 01670 785visit 077 out more at www.theaurorazone.com out more please our website at Find www.artisantravelcompany.com or call us on 01670 785 049

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www.theaurorazone.com 01670 785 077

Aurora Zone, Suite 2, Netherton Park, Stannington, Northumberland, NE61 6EF

6865

ABTA No. Y6261