Posted on October 5th, 2013.
The Laplanders have long believed that their land was home to many fantastical creatures, and the most famous of all is that jolly old elf — Santa Claus. Visitors to his hometown of Rovaniemi are delighted to find that just 8 miles away is his official address, known as Santa Claus Village. When you cross the Arctic Circle, you enter the magical realm built by the Elf folk where Santa can meet with people from near and far as part of his mission to “enhance the well being of children and the kindness of grownups as well as spreading the message of love and good will of Christmas spirit throughout the globe.
At the Santa Claus Village, you can visit his official post office where you can have a letter sent with the unique Arctic Circle postmark to friends and family with personal greetings from Santa Claus. Stroll through the beautifully decorated streets with shops full of Scandinavian toys and Christmas ornaments. Sample the local delicacies made from reindeer, berries and herbs or marvel at the Finnish skill with textiles, clothing and bags. Visit workshops to see how beautiful reindeer hide products are made by hand as well as watch craftsmen prepare Lappish jewelry, crystal and knives.
Take a ride in a reindeer-drawn sleigh or climb aboard a husky sled ride at the nearby Santa Claus Park. Snowmobile safaris across the Arctic tundra are delightful adventures for all ages, and special programs for children highlight the wonders of the wilderness. You can even qualify for an official Arctic Circle Crossing Certificate.
There are plenty of refreshing places in the Santa Claus Village to stop and have a snack at the bakery, a nice lunch at the cafe or the traditional, healthy dinner at the Santamus restaurant. Duck in the cozy coffee shops and bars where you can sip warm drinks while you decide what to do next.
It is surprising to learn that the Santa clause Village is open year round, but after the first to December the hours are extended from 9 AM to 7 PM to make the most of the holiday season. It will close at 3 PM on Christmas Eve, but reopen at noon on Christmas Day for festivities until 5 PM. It is easy to find from Rovaniemi, just drive due north on the Europe 4 road until you see the grand tower gateway flanked with fairy castle lights.
Follow our link for more information on www.baltictravelcompany.com/finland-holidays/
This entry was posted on Saturday, October 5th, 2013 at 2:32 pm; on the subject of Finland, Nordic.