Winter in Finland

8 days, Guided Groups, Fixed Departures

Our winter adventure in Finland takes you far away from mass tourism to a very unique region, the easternmost border area of Europe. Close to the Russia, it is an area of silent forests, unspoilt wilderness and frozen lakes - and of course plenty of winter activities!

You will be based deep in the heart of the forest, near the tiny village of Hossa, in cosy wooden chalets, each with their own sauna. A variety of activities are on offer - husky-sledding, ice-fishing, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and a reindeer safari. There will also be spare time to enjoy your idyllic winter surroundings at leisure. Finnish cuisine is superb - there is a tasty selection of local fish, hearty soups and the ubiquitous reindeer meat - low in fat and high in protein! All washed down by the delicious local cloudberry liquor.

This trip should provide an unforgettable winter break in a charming traditional and very uncommercial winter setting with some modern twists far away from the neon lights and noise of larger and busier resorts.

Days 1 and 2. Outbound and Huskies

Fly via Helsinki to deepest northeast Finland and transfer to a hotel for the night. The following morning, after being kitted out with snowsuits, boots and gloves (no frostbite here!) you can enjoy a memorable husky safari, mushing through the forests behind your noisy canine team - who is guiding who? Continue south and away from the crowds to the peaceful and pristine Hossa recreation area.

Days 3 to 7. Winter Wonderland Activities

Each day a different activity will be offered, and ALL these are included in the tour cost. The exact order of events will depend on the weather and snow conditions, but you can expect to partake in most of the following activities:

Cross-country skiing

Take your first 'steps' in cross- country skiing with an instructor before heading off on pre-carved tracks. Unlike downhill skiing there are no steep icy slopes and crowded lift queues to contend with and you are able to enjoy the peace and beauty of the surrounding scenery whilst 'schussing' along at your own pace. This activity can be enjoyed at any time during your holiday.

Snowmobiling

After some thorough driving instruction, you can enjoy a snowmobile ride across the frozen lakes and through the snowy woods.

Reindeer Safari

Head off on a safari with a difference - in search of the elusive herds of reindeer. Travelling in sleds pulled by snowmobiles, an experienced tracker will lead you (hopefully) to one of these free-roaming herds.

Snowshoeing

A snowshoe trek through ancient forest - no expertise required!

Ice Fishing

This takes you out onto one of the many frozen lakes and gives you a chance to try some ice fishing in some of the area's best fishing waters. The ice may be as much as a metre thick, but holes can be drilled easily. Naturally, we arrange the fishing equipment and licences. The catch available is perch, lake trout, rainbow trout and greyling. Supper anyone?

... and at the end of each day retire to your cabin to enjoy a warming sauna. Rendezvous in the evenings for some internally warming cloudberry liquour and hearty meals!

Day 8. Homeward

Depart for your drive over the snowpacked roads to catch the flight back to the UK. Alternatively why not stay in Helsinki for an extra night or two and enjoy the delights this very friendly and elegant city has to offer?