Jess, personal travel specialist at Spencer Travel Southside, recently visited Lapland with adventure operator 50 Degrees North.

‘A trip of a lifetime’ according to Jess.

Thinking of travelling to the Land of Santa? Here are some of Jess’ top tips:

Hire your warm clothing when you are in Lapland! Save on the luggage space. I would suggest just packing a warm jacket, your beany and gloves!

Pack your layers! The weather changes in a second.

Don’t forget your swimming costume! Until I visited Finland I never understood the importance of a sauna. It is a way of life in Finland, every house, hotel and even most restaurants have them ready for you to use! There are female, male and mixed saunas.

Hidden Gem – if you are in Saariselka a must visit is Laanilan Kievari restaurant! Easily the best meal we had in Finland. Fine dining experience in a cosy, authentic setting – it looks like a private family home, cute wooden hut with beautiful roaring fire place, about 10-minute drive from town. It’s a family owned and run restaurant, very personal, both mum and dad work in the kitchen. The owner (the son) is a real character and part of the experience is chatting with him, he makes you feel very welcome. They use local produce from their own farm or surrounding forest areas for their dishes.

Fiskars Artisan Village – it’s the perfect escape from Helsinki for a day trip or overnight stay. This is a unique quirky little village, very pretty! Most famously known for the orange handled-scissors but it is also an old industrial village. Great food, various small cellar doors, exhibitions, boutiques, local craft man showcasing their workshops, leading Nordic designers, everything is locally produced. Great for art or antique lovers, however there is a bit of something for everyone. Fiskars is also home to the best mountain bike and hiking trails in Finland so during the warmer months it can get very busy

If you have any questions about holidaying in Finland and Lapland make sure to give Jess a call!