"Savoring Lapland's Enchantment: A Bucket List Adventure with Glass Pyramids, Elf School Magic, and Arctic Thrills"
Indulge in the allure of Lapland, where my 40th birthday celebration unfolded in a magical symphony of experiences. Nestled just above the Arctic Circle, The Aurora Pyramids beckoned with promises of a celestial stay. With a motorized bed and a panoramic roof framing the mystical polar skies, the setting ensured an unforgettable sojourn. Positioned in Tonttula Village in Kongas, a mere ten-minute drive from Levi's heart and 20 minutes from Kittila airport, the hotel transported us to a Narnian realm.
While the elusive Northern Lights eluded our gaze, the clarity of a quiet night in the outskirts promised an ideal canvas for the celestial dance. Excitement echoed through the serene surroundings as my eight and four-year-old children discovered the path leading to an "Elves Hideaway." A pivotal attraction in Tonttula Village, it became a must-visit for families. Elf school activities, delectable gingerbread baking sessions, and enchanting folk tales from the Wise Elf unfolded amidst crafting paper snowflakes.
The festivities extended outdoors, featuring reindeer petting, tobogganing, snow tubing, and private rendezvous with Father Christmas in his woodland cabin. Yet, Lapland's charm isn't confined to festive splendor. Opting for a twin-center holiday, we seamlessly transitioned to Levi, where a compact haven awaited. With eateries, supermarkets, pharmacies, and winter clothing outlets within walking distance, Levi ensured convenience without compromising on adventure.
Our snow gear, sourced from Winterent in Levi's center, allowed for pre-ordered sizes, delivered ahead of our arrival. Bundled in winter coats, our exploration of Levi's slopes commenced, marking the second half of our Lapland escapade. Amidst the ethereal landscapes and diverse activities, Lapland stood testament to a dreamy birthday celebration, weaving a tapestry of enchantment that will forever linger in our memories.
"Snowy Escapades and Arctic Thrills: Unveiling the Charms of Levi with Hotel Panorama"
For guests at Hotel Panorama, traversing the picturesque landscape becomes a delight with complimentary scenic gondola rides, whisking them to the center within minutes. A preferable alternative to descending 766 slippery steps, this mode of transport aligns seamlessly with the allure of Levi. In a region where walking pales in comparison to available alternatives, the Zero Point store offers a myriad of winter equipment for hire, including sleds that transform the journey from summit to base into a thrilling adventure.
Children revel in hours of sledding down snow-clad slopes, punctuated by warmth from s'mores and sausages at the Campfire Barista stall. A tantalizing Finnish delight awaits parents in the form of Glogi, a mulled wine offering a perfect winter respite. Hotel Panorama further entices with an excellent à la carte menu featuring authentic dishes like arctic char and sautéed reindeer for those seeking a taste of traditional Finnish cuisine.
For a cultural interlude, explore Samiland, a UNESCO exhibition delving into the rich history and cultural traditions of the indigenous people of the North, the Sami. However, the pinnacle of Levi's enchantment lies in the exhilarating experience of a husky safari. Racing through the forest and across frozen lakes, guided by professional mushers, unveils a thrilling adventure (starting from €110pp or €340 per family of four at levi.fi/en). As the eager dogs pull sleds through snow-draped landscapes, the icy ground beneath echoes with excitement, creating a birthday celebration that undoubtedly etches itself into the realms of bucket-list memories.
To embark on this Lapland escapade, Finnair offers direct flights from Heathrow, Manchester, and Edinburgh to Helsinki, with subsequent flights to Kittilä. Return fares from London to Kittilä start from £236. Hotel Levi Panorama beckons with rooms starting at €85 per night, while The Aurora Pyramids, a celestial retreat, offers rooms from €587 per night for those seeking an elevated Arctic experience. Discover the magic of Levi at levipanorama.fi/en and elvesvillage.fi/majoitus/aurora-pyramidit. For comprehensive information, visit visitfinland.com and prepare for an Arctic adventure like no other.
"In the embrace of Levi's enchantment, a stay at Hotel Panorama unveils a winter wonderland where every moment is a celebration of Arctic thrills. The seamless gondola rides and the exhilarating sled adventures offer a picturesque alternative to mundane walks, while the taste of Glogi adds warmth to the frosty landscape for parents. Hotel Panorama's culinary offerings, featuring authentic Finnish delights, further elevate the experience.
As the snowy escapades unfold, from Campfire Barista stalls to the cultural immersion of Samiland, the magic of Levi is palpable. However, the climax of this Arctic odyssey lies in the heart-pounding husky safari, a testament to the unforgettable adventures awaiting those who seek them.
With direct flights courtesy of Finnair and accommodations ranging from the welcoming Hotel Levi Panorama to the celestial Aurora Pyramids, the journey becomes not just a trip but a transcendent experience. This Lapland escapade, adorned with icy landscapes, spirited huskies, and the rich tapestry of Finnish culture, etches itself into the memory, making every bucket-list birthday dream pale in comparison. Levi, with its panoramic allure, beckons, inviting all to partake in the Arctic symphony that echoes with the thrill of adventure and the warmth of cherished memories."
