Included in the price...
• Duration: 6 or 7 nights
• Group size: approximately 2 – 25 people
• Flights are included (please see pricing notes) (Manchester & Bristol on request)
• Return airport transfers
• 6 or 7 nights in a Log Cabin (Half board available)
• Ice fishing, snowmobile safari to amethyst mine, cross country ski school, visit to reindeer park, short husky safari, Aurora snowshoe trek (The order of activities is subject to change)
• Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
• Fully qualified wilderness guides and instructors
Departure dates from: 2 December 2012 to 24 March 2013
The Luosto Cabins are the ideal place to combine a relaxing holiday with some less-strenuous winter activities. A perfect mix of "downtime" and adventure.
Nestling in the fells of Central Lapland is the unspoilt village of Luosto. Located 90 minutes north of the Arctic Circle this small ski resort offers an intimate encounter with the wilderness of Lapland.
First class activities and accommodation are coupled with a stunning natural environment. The local ski slopes are great for beginners and will also provide good entertainment for more experienced skiers.
Duration 6 or 7 nights
Day 1: Flights, arrivals and introduction
You will be greeted on arrival in Finland and transferred to your accommodation in Luosto.
Day 2: Ice fishing
This morning you have free time to explore Luosto. A short walk is enough for you to determine that you are in the heart of a spectacular fell and forest landscape that is just begging to be explored.
In the afternoon you will be taken in a snowmobile drawn sleigh to a local ice fishing spot. Your guide will give you a few hints and tips and then it’s simply a case of waiting for the fish to bite.
Day 3: Snowmobile safari to the amethyst mine
There can be few better ways to explore the wilderness than by snowmobile. A snowmobile safari is thrilling and today you will be given full instruction before heading to the top of Lampivaara Fell. The views from the top are reason enough to visit this place but you are here to visit Europe’s only remaining amethyst mine.
You will be given details about how the gems are formed and then will visit the mine and have the chance to dig for your very own amethyst.
Day 4: Cross country skiing
You will probably have noticed that cross country skiing is a rather popular pastime in these parts and today it is your turn to try this most Lappish of activities. Your guide will give you full instruction and show you the techniques you will need before you join one of the many trails that wind their way around Luosto.
We assume that you have had no previous experience so please don’t worry if you’ve never tried any form of skiing in the past. The equipment is yours for the rest of the day so you can practice your new found skills. In general our guests find the whole sport rather addictive – you have been warned!
Day 5: Visit to a reindeer park
There is no way you can visit Lapland and not meet some reindeer. You have free time this morning before being transferred by car to a local reindeer park. The guides will lead you in a reindeer caravan on a sleigh ride lasting around 30 minutes. There can be few more traditional and peaceful ways to explore and take in the beauty of the Lappish wilds.
Day 6: Huskies and Aurora snowshoe trek
Husky safaris are a “must do” in Lapland. You will transfer to the local sled dog centre and will have a chance to look around before meeting your team of willing huskies. You will be given full instruction on how to handle a sled before heading off onto the trail for a short husky safari. You will travel 2 people per sled and both of you will have the chance to drive.
Luosto’s reputation as a Northern Lights destination is cemented by the presence of Sodankyla Geophysical Observatory around 30km away. In many cases you can see a display by simply stepping outside but if the Lights have eluded you then hopefully this evening you will have more luck.
Tonight you’ll be guided on a snowshoe search for the Northern Lights. You will head to a spot either deep in the forest or on the fells above the village, ideal for viewing the Aurora should they appear but magical regardless. Away from all artificial lights and deep in the wilderness you should have an incomparable view if an Aurora should appear.
Day 7: Free day or departure (6 nights duration)
For those people travelling on dates which are 6 nights in duration, it is time to say goodbye to Finland. For those staying 7 nights you can fill your free day with a range of additional activities (payable locally) or perhaps hit Luosto’s ski slopes.
Day 8: Departure, transfers and flights (7 nights duration)