Winter escape at Arctic Lumo Resort

Your winter adventure begins in Kuusamo in northeastern Finland, where, on arrival, a private transfer will be waiting to whisk you to Arctic Lumo Resort. This boutique retreat is tucked away among snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and rolling fells, less than 10 minutes from the airport. Your home for the next four nights is a stylish Aurora Spa Room, complete with a private outdoor hot tub and floor-to-ceiling windows offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding winter wilderness. 

This evening, enjoy your first three-course dinner at the fabulous on-site restaurant. Menus are inspired by the changing seasons and showcase the finest local ingredients from the lakes, forests and fells of the region. Overseen by renowned Finnish chef Kim Mikkola, whose impressive career includes time at Copenhagen's world-renowned Noma and Helsinki's Michelin-starred Inari, the culinary experience is a highlight of staying at Arctic Lumo Resort.

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a day of classic winter adventures. This morning, join an expert guide for an exciting snowmobile excursion through the pristine winter landscapes of North Ostrobothnia. Skimming across frozen terrain and weaving through snow-laden forests, you'll pause along the way to warm up with hot drinks and light refreshments.

Later, visit a local husky farm to meet these energetic dogs and learn about life as a musher. Following a short introduction, take the reins of your own sled and set off on a memorable journey through the wilderness, guided by a team of eager huskies. Afterwards, return to Arctic Lumo Resort, where you can unwind in your private outdoor hot tub before another excellent dinner. On clear evenings, the skies here offer superb opportunities for Northern Lights viewing, so be sure to keep an eye on the horizon before turning in for the night.

Today begins with one of Finland's most unusual yet rewarding winter experiences: ice floating on a partially frozen river. Dressed in a specially designed thermal dry suit, you'll drift effortlessly with the current through a peaceful landscape of snow-covered trees and ice-fringed banks. It's a unique opportunity to experience the region's landscapes from a completely different perspective.

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Complimentary snowshoes, cross-country skis and sleds are available should you wish to venture out and explore independently, while the resort's sauna and private hot tubs provide ample opportunities to relax. Additional guided activities, including fat biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, can also be arranged, or you might stop by the resort's very own reindeer farm. In the evening, you may wish to join an optional Northern Lights excursion, travelling into the wilderness in search of optimal aurora-viewing conditions.

After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to Ruka Ski Resort, one of Finland's premier skiing destinations. With 41 pistes and 22 lifts spread across the slopes of Rukatunturi fell, Ruka offers excellent conditions for skiers of all abilities, particularly beginners and intermediates. Your lift passes and equipment hire will be arranged in advance, allowing you to maximise your time on the mountain from the moment you arrive.

Included today is a ride on the Ruka Coaster, the world's northernmost mountain roller coaster. Stretching for 767 metres through scenic fell landscapes, the track reaches speeds of up to 40km/h, while individual brake levers allow you to control the pace of your descent. Each cart accommodates up to two adults, while younger children (aged 3-7) must be accompanied by an adult. Later, return to Arctic Lumo Resort and celebrate your final evening with another superb three-course dinner.

Enjoy a final breakfast at Arctic Lumo Resort this morning. A private transfer will then take you back to Kuusamo Airport for your onward journey home.