Lapland in Northern Finland has always been a big seller for the leading British tour operators. Although it falls under the radar of many skiers looking for big ski areas, which it doesn't have, many are drawn there by the wide range of 'Arctic experiences' such as dog sledding, reindeer safaris and snowmobiling - as well as the chance to meet Santa of course.
The larger ski areas like Levi, Ruka and Yllas (above) do have mid-sized ski areas which are plenty for many skiers for a week, especially when time-out is taken for other activities, and the fine powder snow here and freestyle skiing facilities are also highly rated.
Winter 2017-18 will see Inghams celebrate 20 ski seasons operating holidays to Lapland and for the past few years the company have had a dedicated Lapland programme complimenting its main ski brochure.
The company operates holidays to Levi, Saariselkä, Yllas and the Muotka Wilderness Lodge.
This year there's a new flight route from Gatwick to shorten transfer times to one of its destinations, Saariselkä, to just 20 minutes from Ivalo airport; the company is also extending its season to Lapland, which traditional ends after the February holidays for most British operators, to go right through to the Easter holiday (April 7th), and are adding a new 5 star hotel due to open in the region this coming winter – a rare new option where most of the existing accommodation is rated 4 star at best.
"Due to open in December 2017, the Five Star Arctic Hotel will bring luxury accommodation to Saariselkä this winter," an Inghams statement reads.
Located in a scenic fell-top location above Saariselkä village, guests can enjoy the use of a public sauna, modern restaurant and bar with cosy fireplace.
Large glass windows will adorn every room, offering uninterrupted views over the arctic wilderness.
All rooms are duplex suites sleeping two – four people, with an option to upgrade to a luxury suite with private sauna or a glass cabin.
Prices start from £1,479 per person for seven nights on a half-board basis, including return flights from Gatwick or Manchester to Kittilä or new direct flights to Ivalo from Gatwick.
http://www.inghams.co.uk/lapland