Overview
What's included?
- Flights: Return flights from London Heathrow to Kittilä (via Helsinki). Direct return flights from London Gatwick are available for a supplement on certain dates. Flight routes are subject to change
- Transfers: Return airport transfers are included
- Accommodation: 6 nights hotel room and 1 night in wilderness cabin accommodation (choose between Hotel Jeris or Harriniva)
- The following activities and equipment are included: Reindeer farm and safari, snowmobile safari, overnight husky safari (order of activities subject to change)
- Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches*, 7 dinners
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
- Fully qualified wilderness guides and instructors
- 24/7 assistance from our UK based operations team and in destination support from our local partners
*If you're travelling between 29th December and 16th February on direct flights, you will receive 7 lunches
This winter holiday in Finland has been one of our most popular trips for over a decade and a quick look at the activities we include highlights why.
Firstly, guests enjoy a cultural experience at an historic reindeer farm, where a reindeer-pulled sleigh ride is a wonderful introduction to Lapland and the small museum provides details of the local culture and times gone by.
A thrilling snowmobile safari is next on the list and gives the chance to explore further afield and gain a sense of the scale of Finland's wilderness environment. This is not a short taster session – you will cover between 60 and 80km during the day!
The true highlight for many people, however, is the overnight husky safari to a wilderness cabin which covers two days of the holiday. This is an unforgettable experience for all who take part and is a real adventure.
Staying at either Hotel Jeris or Harriniva, we also leave time for you to tailor your holiday and relax or enjoy additional activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing.
©VisitFinland, Antti Pietikäinen
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Key facts
| Duration: | 7 nights |
| Pace: | Active |
| Suitable for: | Anybody over the age of 18. See our terms for further information. |
Dates & Prices
We include more, no hidden costs
Accommodation options: the dates listed are based on hotel room accommodation (2 people sharing a room). If you wish to upgrade to a Winter Cottage or sauna room and log cabin during these dates, please contact our Travel Experts for a quote.
Activities: please note that if you are travelling early in the winter season and there is not enough snowfall, then some activities may be adapted by the local team, or alternatives provided, to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort. For more information on this, please see our booking terms and conditions.
Prices
| Departure dates between | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Sun 08 Dec 2024
to Sun 29 Dec 2024 |
Adults £ 3,145 To £ 4,325 | |
|
Sun 29 Dec 2024
to Sun 05 Jan 2025 |
Adults £ 3,095 To £ 3,470 | |
|
Sun 05 Jan 2025
to Sun 02 Feb 2025 |
Adults £ 2,595 To £ 2,995 | |
|
Sun 02 Feb 2025
to Sun 02 Mar 2025 |
Adults £ 2,725 To £ 3,510 | |
|
Sun 02 Mar 2025
to Sun 06 Apr 2025 |
Adults £ 2,795 To £ 3,275 |
Please note: our holiday prices are based on the lowest available airline fares. These fares can sell out quickly and, as a result, prices may increase and supplements may be applicable. We recommend booking at the earliest opportunity in order to secure the best possible fares and flight times.
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Holiday group size (approximate)
This holiday requires a minimum of 4 people to run, however, we require a minimum of 10 people for our flight allocation. Maximum 12 people (approximately). Please speak to our Travel Experts for further information.
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum and maximum age
If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.
Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Brexit information for British Passport holders
For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions
Minimum travellers 10, Maximum travellers 20
Agenda
Agenda
-
DAY 1
Arrival and Introduction
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred directly to your hotel where you will check into your room. Upgrade options are available at both Jeris and Harriniva for a supplement, depending upon availability.
Once you have settled in, you will meet with your guide to discuss the adventures ahead. Your cold weather clothing will be provided and is yours for the duration of your stay (if you arrive on a late flight, this will take place the following morning).
Included Meals: Dinner -
DAY 2
Reindeer Farm and Safari
Reindeer and Lapland are synonymous with each other and today you will gain an insight into the daily life of a reindeer herder as you visit a nearby reindeer farm. The farm is also home to a small museum that showcases the customs of reindeer husbandry and its ties to the culture and economy of the region.
You will be shown how to throw a lasso and will then enjoy a delightful 7km reindeer-pulled sleigh ride. This is a magical experience and lunch will be served around an open fire.
This afternoon you will head back to the hotel where you can relax and unwind.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 3
Snowmobile Safari
Snowmobiles are a common mode of transport in Lapland and are used to travel between remote communities. They are also exceptionally good fun and offer guests the chance to travel further afield to explore the landscapes of Lapland.
You will be given a full safety briefing and instructions before you head out on the trail, travelling two people per machine, for a safari that will cover between 60 and 80km of pristine landscapes. You will travel through snow-laden forests and across frozen lakes and rivers as you delve into the heart of the wilderness.
You can swap drivers during your safari (providing you both hold a full driving licence).
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 4
Overnight Husky Safari
There is nothing that can quite compare to the sense of adventure you feel as you drive your own team of huskies through the wilds of the Arctic (one person per sled). This holiday takes things a step further than most as you enjoy an overnight adventure with your team and stay in a wilderness cabin.
After checking out of your hotel room (your luggage will be securely stored for you at the hotel), you will meet your own team of between 4 – 6 huskies at a nearby sled dog centre and will help to harness them under the expert tuition of your musher guide. When the sleds are loaded there will be a full safety briefing provided before your guide leads you off to start your adventure.
You will be sure to notice the dogs’ enthusiasm for the trail; their excitement is infectious and their happy howls and barks highlight their desire to get going. Once you have released the brake on the sled the dogs fall silent and focus on the task at hand.
You will drive your team and cover around 25km today (depending on conditions) and lunch will be served around a campfire en route.
Your destination is a wilderness cabin in a remote corner of this stunning landscape. Upon arrival at your base, the group will all work together to collect wood and water as needed. Your guide will prepare the evening meal, light the fire and get the wood-fired sauna on (saunas are basically mandatory in Finland, even in the wilderness). Your priority will then be to feed and settle your team of dogs for the night.
The cabin you sleep in will be determined by the route and the conditions. Most do not have running water, electricity or indoor toilet facilities and accommodation will be dormitory style. This is a rustic experience but you will be cosy in your arctic grade sleeping bag and, once the fire is blazing, the sauna is warm and your dinner is served this is sure to be an unforgettable overnight.
Another bonus is that this remote location is far from any light pollution and so provides an ideal place from which to view the Northern Lights should conditions be favourable.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 5
Husky Safari Back to the Hotel
You will awake this morning to what sounds like a pack of wolves outside, fear not, it’s just the dogs eager to get going once again! You will enjoy a warming breakfast before setting off with the team again.
There will be time to further your mushing skills as you travel around 25km and head back towards the sled dog centre.
It’s sure to be a sad moment when you part from your team but, back at your hotel, you will enjoy a delicious meal and hot shower which will hopefully provide some consolation.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 6
Free Day or Optional Activities
We have left today free to spend your way, whether just relaxing in these peaceful surroundings, taking advantage of one of the saunas or enjoying additional activities.
There are plenty of options on offer including additional snowmobile safaris, Northern Lights hunts and ice fishing. These can be booked in advance through us or can be booked and paid for locally (subject to availability).
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 7
Free Day or Optional Activities
Today has also been left free so that you can try additional activities.
Tonight you will enjoy a special farewell dinner, reliving the highlights of your stay with your fellow guests.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 8
Departure
Today you will say farewell to the delights of Lapland and you will be transferred back for your return flight home.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Jeris Lakeside Resort
Nights: 1-3,5-7
Jeris Lakeside Resort occupies an enviable location which is 20 kilometres from the nearest town and is located directly on the shores of Lake Jerisjärvi. It is this remote position that makes the hotel an enchanting forest retreat, with the amazing backdrops of the forested fells and frozen water.
This hotel receives high praise for its knowledgeable guides and exciting activity options.
The hotel consists of a central building and 32 winter cottages in the adjacent forest.
Hotel facilities
- Your meals will be served in the hotel restaurant, which offers a rustic menu of traditional and local Finnish dishes. Meals are served buffet-style with one or two options for each course. Guests can enjoy local delicacies, such as salmon and reindeer. The hearty food here is ideal for setting you up for your adventures in the snow.
- There is a small lounge area where guests can relax in the evening and take advantage of the hotel's free Wi-Fi.
- Tea and coffee are available free of charge throughout the day in the hotel restaurant / bar area.
- The Arctic Elements Sauna World is a very popular feature and can be found on the lakeshore, a short walk from the main hotel building. The spa has strong eco-credentials thanks to using entirely renewable electricity and geothermal heating generated from the Jerisjärvi lake. There are four saunas, each meticulously designed to incorporate the four elements; earth, air, fire and water and named after Finnish gods and goddesses. There are four saunas, each representing one of the four elements; earth, air, fire and water. A special fifth Northern Lights sauna is also available as an upgrade option. For those who wish to experience a Finnish tradition, there is also an ice pool to take a dip in following the sauna (you do need to be in good physical shape). Guests staying in either the cabins or the hotel rooms normally have one spa entry per holiday included. If you wish to visit more than once then this can be arranged and paid for locally with reception.
- A small selection of souvenirs is available for guests to purchase (including postcards and local handicrafts and snacks) in the reception area.
Guest bedroom types
Double/twin rooms: In the main hotel building at Jeris there are 27 comfortable traditional bedrooms. All guest bedrooms have an en-suite shower room, a drying cupboard and television.
Please note: A limited amount of hairdryers are available from reception.
Image credits: Emmi Kähkönen - Harriniva Hotel and Safaris
Wilderness Cabins
Nights: 4
Wilderness cabin accommodation is reserved for those people enjoying overnight safaris. There can surely be few better forms of escape from the everyday stresses (which could include laptops, mobiles and your day job) than a night in one of these cabins. Their isolation also means that the views of the night sky are incredible.
The Northern Lights could well pay you a visit should conditions be right and, if the sky is clear, you will never forget the sight of the galaxy overhead.
The title is fairly self-explanatory as the cabins are located in the wilds. The cabins that you visit are determined by the conditions of the trails you are using. They are varied in their set up but all offer the same incredible experience of complete silence in the evening (not guaranteed if you are dog sledding as the huskies do like a howl now and then!).
Some of the cabins are more basic than others, as some have no electricity or running water. Everyone will join the guide to help set up camp by collecting wood and water if needed. Participating enhances the wilderness experience.
Once the fire is lit, the food is cooked. The guides prepare your meals over an open fire and our guests always provide exceptional feedback on the meals that the guides rustle up.
Should you have specific dietary requirements, please mention these at the time of booking.
There are no showers or bathroom facilities in the cabins but this is all part of the adventure. Scandinavia is renowned for its saunas and the wilderness cabins are no exception. Once heated, you can steam clean in the sauna. The toilet facilities are normally a short walk from the cabin and are compostable. We certainly recommend a head torch for any ventures to the toilet during the night!
In most cases, the sleeping arrangements are dormitory style. You will be given your own arctic-grade sleeping bag in which to sleep and, combined with your thermals and the open fire, this should keep you lovely and warm.
You will carry with you all that you need for any stay in the cabins, so luggage is typically restricted to the essentials. Your main bag will be securely stored back at the hotel and a safe is provided for your valuables.
There is something so refreshing about realising that you can strip back your belongings and enjoy such a simple but satisfying experience.
Depending on the weather conditions you might spend the nights in cosy and warm basecamp tents at one of the wilderness camps.
Image Credits: Antti Pietikainen
Other options
Harriniva Adventure Resort
Ideally located in the north-west corner of Finland, high above the Arctic Circle and in the very heart of the Aurora Zone, Harriniva Adventure Resort serves as a perfect base for your adventure holiday.
Welcoming guests for over 50 years now, the hotel has developed a growing reputation for its warm ambience and the large range of enjoyable activities on offer.
Hotel facilities
The hotel has a range of facilities that have been designed to make your stay here as enjoyable as possible.
- There is free Wi-Fi throughout for guest use, in our experience, we have found it works best in the main reception and dining area
- The hotel restaurant consists of three separate dining areas. The meals are served in a buffet style with two or three choices for each course. The food here is hearty and wholesome
- The hotel also has a pub serving a range of beers, wines and spirits - this is the perfect place to unwind and relax with your fellow guests in the evening
- Tea and coffee are available free of charge throughout the day in the hotel restaurant / bar area.
- In the main reception area of the hotel, you will find a small gift shop selling a range of postcards, soft toys and handcrafted products. There is also a selection of snacks that can be purchased
- A sauna is available for guest use with separate facilities for men and women. This is free of charge and is heated every evening for around three hours
- The hotel also has an Aurora Wellness Centre (situated a short walk away on the riverbank), where you can enjoy a range of therapies such as facials or massages. A real treat after a day of sapping up the pristine wilderness! During peak periods, we would strongly recommend booking therapies in advance through reception (all payable locally)
- Snowshoes and cross-country skis are available to hire for a small charge and there are marked trails surrounding the hotel for those with some experience. For those interested in downhill skiing, the reception will be able to arrange a taxi to the nearby ski resort of Olos (payable locally).
Room types
Double/twin rooms: Harriniva has 64 guest bedrooms which consist of twin or double rooms. Triple rooms are also available on request. Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, all rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer.
Safari House: For those travelling on our longer husky or snowmobile experiences, your nights before and after setting out on your adventure you will stay either at one of the Pietikäinen family’s three hotels (in a shared room) or a safari house located near the Harriniva Wilderness Hotel (max distance of around 5km). If you are staying in one of the hotels then you will enjoy your evening meal in that hotel restaurant, if you are staying in one of the safari houses the hotel will provide a minibus to take you to dinner. You will be provided will full information regarding your accommodation for the first and final nights of your stay upon arrival. If you are staying in one of the Safari Houses then each has sleeping facilities, a shower room, toilet, hairdryer and a sauna.
Wilderness plus rooms: These recently renovated rooms include double/twin beds and an unfolding sofa suitable for 1 adult or 2 children. Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, all rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer, as well as a small seating area
Image Credits: Matt Robinson, Emmi Kähkönen, Harriniva Hotels & Safaris
Jeris Winter Cottage Type A
Type A winter cottages (30 square metres) are, on the whole, the closest to the hotel and are ideal for couples.
The cabins can vary in size but all sleep from two to four people in one spacious room with a sleeping alcove for two people (generally with a double bed) and a pull-out sofa bed for two more (although we recommend just one extra adult). They are all privately-owned and so the décor and style can vary, but each has a wood-burning stove, clothes drying cupboard, kitchenette, television, shower room, toilet and a private sauna.
All meals are served in the hotel restaurant.
Cabin guests will receive a small ‘starter pack’ of firewood. Further wood supplies can be purchased locally for approximately 10 euros.
Hairdryers are not provided as standard, but a limited number are available from reception.
Jeris Winter Cottage Type B
Type B winter cottages (63 square metres) sleep from four to six people. There is a living room area with kitchenette and wood-burning stove, one bedroom for two people and a mezzanine loft area (please note that this is accessed by a steep ladder) which can sleep up to four more.
The cottages are all privately owned and so some contents and décor may vary, but all are equipped with a drying cupboard, sauna, TV, shower and toilet room.
The cosy winter cottages are located in the forests which surround Jeris; the furthest being across the quiet road and tucked in the trees around a 15-minute walk from the main building.
Cabin guests will receive a small ‘starter pack’ of firewood. Further wood supplies can be purchased locally for approximately 10 euros.
All meals are served in the hotel restaurant.
Hairdryers are not provided as standard, but a limited number are available from reception.
Jeris Winter Cottage Type C
Type C winter cottages (70 square metres) are the largest available and sleep from four to seven people. There are two bedrooms (each for two people) downstairs and a loft sleeping area for a further two (or three if you don’t mind being very cosy!) people accessed via a steep staircase.
As with all the cottages, there is a log-burning stove, clothes drying cupboard, kitchenette, sauna, TV, shower and toilet room. They can vary in layout a little and as they are privately-owned, the décor is determined by the owner’s personal choice.
They are located in the forests which surround Jeris; the furthest being across the quiet road and tucked in the trees between a 10 and 20-minute walk from the main building.
All meals are served in the hotel restaurant.
Cabin guests will receive a small ‘starter pack’ of firewood. Further wood supplies can be purchased locally for approximately 10 euros.
Hairdryers are not provided as standard, but a limited number are available from reception.
Jeris and Torassieppi Aurora Huts
The unique Aurora Huts at Jeris and Torassieppi offer a rather different overnight experience for guests. These huts have pleasant, cosy décor, with floor to ceiling windows on one wall, allowing you to gaze at the night sky in search of the Northern Lights. The Aurora huts at Torassieppi are located close to the lakeshore, whereas the huts at Jeris are located in the woods. The exact location of your dome will be confirmed upon check-in at your hotel.
Each hut has a double bed, a composting toilet and a small sink with running water. Shower and sauna facilities are just a short walk away (around 50-150 metres). There is space for one extra bed in the huts, but space will be very limited when added.
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Our pick
Arctic Elements Sauna World
Saunas are a popular and traditional Finnish pastime. The locals use it as a space for relaxation and meditation as well as mental and physical cleanliness - and Jeris is a luxurious spa facility for you to experience this in.
The four saunas have been carefully themed on the four elements; earth, air, fire and water, as these are found in all traditions and shamanic well-being rituals.
Read moreThese elements combine to create a fifth, steamy löyly, the spirit of sauna. Each element is represented by Finnish gods or goddesses, as the protectors of the saunas:
Sauna of Tapio (Earth). Tapio is the antlered king of the forest and in this sauna, you will feel the earthly and forest surroundings of the Finnish wilderness. It is split into north, east, south and west, each providing a different kind of löyly.
Sauna of Ukko (Fire). Ukko is the king of all gods and master of lightning, fire and air. This smoke sauna is the most traditional, and a favourite among the Finns. The heating process carries the smoke throughout to create a dark colouring, smokey scent and if you choose, a fiery heat.
Sauna of Vellamo (Water). Vellamo is the goddess of water and the ruler of lakes and rivers. This sauna has a panoramic view over Lake Jeris, a holy place for Sámi people, offering a calming atmosphere. The soft and moist löyly means you can stay in for longer for extended relaxation.
Sauna of Ilmatar (Air). Ilmatar is the goddess of wind and the first mother in the beginning of times. This sauna has no fire or thick walls - instead infrared heaters are situated inside a traditional kota for a soft and gentle heat. Think of this as half sauna, half relaxation room.
The really brave (and healthy) can also take a dip in the icy lake waters - a technique the Finns swear by!
Duration: approximately 3 - 4 hours including transfers (when staying in Harriniva) approximately 2 - 2.5 hours (when staying in Jeris)
Available: every day from 3pm to 10pm (Jeris); Mondays at 8:20pm (Harriniva.)
(Harriniva prices start from £38 as they include a transfer)
Other options
Activities
Snow Shuttle
The carriage (the type of carriage will depend on the availability and weather forecast) will be pulled along by your expert guide on a snowmobile and as you journey further into the darkness, keep your eye out for a potential display.
You’ll be taken to a campfire where you can enjoy hot drinks and a snack by an open fire and continue your search. Your location will be chosen based on the local weather and Aurora forecast for the evening, giving you the best possible chance of ticking the Northern Lights off your bucket list.
Duration: approximately 2 hours in total
Available: Tuesday at 9pm (Jeris) Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays at 9pm (Harriniva)
Optional Winter Activities
There will be the option for you to arrange additional activities locally during your holiday. Your guide will discuss the possibilities with the group as the available options can change and the order of the main itinerary is also subject to amends.
If, however, you know that there is an activity which you would like to try and include before you travel then please let our travel experts know at the time of booking and we will do our best to try and secure this for you in advance (subject to availability).
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
Wonderful hotel, the recent refurb was brilliant and the food exceeded expectations. All guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Transfers were on time. The most incredible holiday and one we will always remember with fond memories. Trip documents were easy to access and all at artisan travel were helpful and knowledgeable. We thoroughly enjoyed every activity however the overnight husky…
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safari was a real highlight and an incredible experience... topped off by seeing a wonderful northern lights show from the wilderness cabin.
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I absolutely adored the holiday and it’s magical being out in the Finnish winter wonderland with the dogs. It might be a good idea to note that some of the trails are tricky to drive and you do have to have a certain basic level of fitness to be out all day with the dogs. Really nice accommodation with our own sauna in the room. The food was delicious with vegetarians very well catered for.…
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Guides and all staff at Saija were knowledgeable and helpful.
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We had a party of 9 and all of us had a fabulous time. Staff were great and it was fabulous we were able to chat with Katrina (Artisan Travel rep) every day. Having coffee/tea facilities in the rooms would have been the only thing I would request. Otherwise everything was as discussed if not more. Our safari guides were fabulous, very friendly and knowledge of the local area which was an…
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advantage. I was a little unsure of what to expect coming from Australia and never having done anything like this before. It was such an enjoyable experience and I will be recommending Artisan to anyone that may look at going from here in Australia.
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The two day husky safari. It was the best thing I have ever done. Great instruction and guides.
Overall a brilliant holiday and a perfect way to see in the new year. The hotel and its staff were excellent and the cabin was really cosy (the personal sauna was much appreciated!). Evening food and food during the activities was great. All activities were fantastic: snowmobiling, the reindeer farm, but in particular the two-day husky safari. Great, efficient support from Graham in the UK in…
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giving advice prior to booking the trip and afterwards.
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The snowmobiling day, most of us booked another, even longer snowmobiling day which was just as fun, if not better.. Marcus was our guide, and he was great! We loved the fact that the groups were only small numbers and there was a minimum age limit so we didn't have children running around, there were only 7 in our group. Please don't lose this element as this made our holiday more special! We…
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felt like we were really out in the forests and lakes on our own, there weren't lots of other groups that we bumped into and it gave a really authentic feel to the holiday, which I know is important to Artisan!
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Our Jeris Adventure was absolutely brilliant and genuinely gave us so many unforgettable experiences. The highlight had to be the overnight husky safari. Crossing a frozen lake in the wilderness with our dog team in brilliant sunshine in -30 centigrade temperatures was an experience that truly brought tears to our eyes. Thanks to everyone involved for making our week such a fantastic experience.
The most enjoyable activity was the 2 day husky safari. However all activities were great. We were blessed with 3 great guides.
The holiday was tiring but excellent.
We were very impressed with the excellent vegetarian food provided. The guides were very good and always knowledgeable about the activities. The husky safari was fantastic. It was great to be able to help care for the dogs too, and our guide Linda was very good. She told us lots of things about the care of the huskies, and clearly knew a lot about the dogs on her team. Snowmobiling was great and…
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so was the snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
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The two day husky safari was outstanding. All the activities were fantastic though, enhanced by exceptionally clear and fine cold weather all week and excellent guides. On our first optional day we took up an option from a Jeris print out received on arrival which was a day with our guide from the first 2 days - he took us snowshoeing and cross-country skiing and gave us a wilderness cookery class…
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at lunchtime.
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We had a great holiday and the group of people who shared the activities were good company. The guides were excellent
Everything was excellent with great accommodation & very helpful staff at Gulo Gulo where nothing was too much trouble.
The whole experience from booking the holiday to returning home was very well organised. Communication was very good from the Artisan Travel to the staff at the hotel. The hotel was well maintained, activities were well organised, food was very good and the whole experience was second to none. I would definitely love to return to Finland and I would use Artisan Travel again. The staff at the Jeris…
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hotel were wonderful. They made us feel very welcome and nothing was too much trouble for them. The hotel was well equipped and staying there was like being a part of a small, close knit community. We would love to go back. The whole experience was everything I dreamed it would be and so much more. For me the snowmobiles topped it. An incredible day and one that I will never forget.
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The best experience was the husky sledding closely followed by ice fishing. The guide we had for ice fishing was very experienced and knowledgeable and it made it even better that we were the only two people on the tour so we got a very personal service! Normally on a package holiday, the tours wouldn’t run with only two people booked on so we were very impressed.The reception team were very…
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friendly and helpful.
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The whole experience was magical, but the 2 day overnight husky tour was everything I hoped for.
The holiday was designed perfectly with just enough time to enjoy all the activities, which were equally fun. If we had to choose the huskies certainly made our holiday special. The craft making was also unexpected and a lovely addition to the program.
A pleasure all round, and would definitely consider another similar holiday. Excellent handling from all staff involved, both at UK end in planning, and in Finland during the holiday. Many thanks.
If someone had told me before our holiday that I would be capable of managing my own team of huskies and spending 2 days travelling over frozen lakes in the Arctic with them, I would have called them bonkers! It was TOTALLY AMAZING! The dogs were so friendly and so happy and you could tell they just loved running together pulling the sledge. We had magnificent weather too, loads and loads and…
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loads of snow and blue-sky days, so the views across the lakes and forest runs were outstanding.
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The husky dog safari was amazing - to be at one with nature, and with our pack of huskies, to feel their power and eagerness to run. It was magical being in the middle of nowhere and the overnight cabin was a great opportunity to get to know our group.
We have just returned from a superb winter adventure holiday at Jeris. The destination was a magical winter location and the activities included in our package were extensive and great value for money. The equipment and guides were first class meaning we could enjoy long days out even with temperatures dropping below -25 degrees. The hotel rooms are clean and functional, although don't expect…
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luxury accommodation. The food is good and there is a cosy bar for relaxing.
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This is the holiday for you if you are tired of tantalising tasters that always leave you wanting more - in this holiday you get a full dose of each activity. We would still like more but there is only so much that you can fit into a week and we had to come home for a rest! We were out on the snowmobiles for a full 8 hours and covered 84 km. We covered a real variety of terrain from ice lakes to…
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steep mountains and tricky woods - all possible with our local guide. The two-day husky ride is also a proper immersion into being with these wonderful dogs in their natural habitat - you return to the hotel suitably tired but refreshed by this unforgettable experience. The Hotel Jeris is on the lake with a superb wood sauna, spa and other saunas - so ideal for plucking up courage for the challenge of swimming in the lake. Cross-country skiing is also straight from the hotel - across the lake for the absolute beginners or the more challenging undulations of the neighbouring national park if you feel so inclined. We were lucky to see the Northern Lights - apparently the best show all winter, so we felt very fortunate. We would recommend a lakeside cabin - the absolute peace and quiet of being wrapped up in a snow-covered landscape is truly memorable and the en-suite sauna means that there is no excuse for not embracing yet another new experience.
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The husky safari was an immersive and hands-on wilderness experience with very well-behaved dogs. It felt really thrilling to be driving across frozen lakes and through snow-draped forests. The holiday exceeded our expectations and we had a wonderful time throughout. Thanks are due to all the very hard-working staff.
I've come back feeling very humbled by the whole experience. I'm finding it very hard to think about the holiday without crying as it literally was magical and surreal. This was effectively a package holiday without the package holiday rubbish i.e. on the bus, off the bus, here's a tree, here's another. The itinerary was spot on, accurate and thoughtful. Our group were amazing, all like-minded,…
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similar ages, with similar aged children (twenties). VERY, very well done and thank you. Northern lights on New Year’s eve in full flow, with champagne and fireworks, stood on a frozen lake - and as for the huskies!!!! I'm going to book a warm adventure now. Thank you so much.
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Our holiday was fantastic from start to finish, we didn't want it to end. The husky safari was magical and the overnight stay in the wilderness cabin really helped our group to connect. The snowmobiling was exhilarating and you really got to tour around the countryside, just amazing. It was all pretty perfect to be honest. We are planning to rebook for next year.
Overall very satisfied and surprised with the amenities and facilities. The overnight husky safari offered great interaction with the huskies, experience of wilderness cabin and great location away from lights to get the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights (which we got a great display of during our safari). Very good package, no real problems. Staff very friendly, patient and approachable.…
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Unique and fun activities, we felt safe when with guides and reps.
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From the moment we arrived at the airport, our reception by the driver was fabulous. He was welcoming, helpful, gave lots of information (funny and informative ones) on the ride to the hotel. Activities were fabulous, couldn't decide which one was best as they all were so special in their own rights. Toini, our guide for the snowmobile and reindeer safari (and also gave us all our equipment) was…
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lovely, gave great info and took lots of group pictures of us. Equipment was in great condition and even skis were well looked after. The food was plenty and great choices. Main dishes all week long were of great quality and flavour. A fantastic gesture was the birthday card and bottle of wine I received whilst at dinner. Great attention to detail, a lovely surprise and hugely appreciated. On my actual birthday, my partner arranged for a little cake with Katrina which again was not a problem and delicious. If pushed, I would say the day out on the snowmobile was the most enjoyable but as mentioned above, every day was great. Our two free days were spent with cross-country skiing across the frozen lake and with a relaxing spa visit (and dip into the lake).
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All the activities were brilliant but nothing beats handling the huskies. The whole holiday was fantastic. Thank you.
(Favourite activity) – 2 day husky safari. Overnight and having to help harness the dogs and feed them, etc all added to the experience and adventure.
I thought the reindeer ride/experience was fantastic as this is not something that is readily available and accessible which makes the activity much more special. For me (the least enjoyable) was probably the snowshoeing and that was because it was quite hard work! The walk was brilliant and there was nothing wrong with the trip.
Overnight husky safari and snowmobile trip brilliant. Nothing was unenjoyable - enjoyed all of it.
Favourite activity? Husky safari. Riding through the snow, controlling your own dogs, it was so special and magical, we will never forget. Least enjoyable? Nothing, loved every minute of it.
You wished me a fantastic trip. It was more than fantastic and my daughter and I had such a wonderful time. The programme of activities was superb and we had some terrific sightings of the Aurora. So much of this was due to our wonderful guide, Thomas. His enthusiasm and love of the area was so obvious and we learnt so much from him. He went out of his way to ensure we had a good time.
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