SCANDINAVIA BEYOND THE LIGHTS DESTINATIONS W


ith their electric swathes of colour exploding across


the sky, the northern lights are one of the most talked-about phenomena on the planet. And although rumours of their disappearance are much exaggerated – after the recent peak in sightings, the latter phase of the solar cycle just means you might have to go farther north to see them – it’s worth pointing out some alternative activities. A northern lights holiday


would be nothing without everything else that goes with them: days spent bumbling


around in the snow, whizzing along on snowmobiles, gliding past reindeer and sledding with huskies against a backdrop of snowy peaks and pristine scenery. Of course, it’s not only the


active attractions that appeal. Home to the indigenous Sami people, the frozen landscapes of Lapland are gifted with sweeping mountain scenery, one-of-a-kind wildlife and a diverse culinary scene that attracts foodies from across the world. That means even if clients don’t catch the northern lights, there are plenty of other things to get stuck into.


w FINLAND Think Finnish Lapland, think Father Christmas, and for families who don’t get to see the northern lights, there’s no better consolation than a trip to see the big, bearded man in his cheery red suit. Newmarket Holidays has day trips for time- pressed parents, while operators such as Best Served Scandinavia offer longer adventures, such as its Snow and Santa in Finnish Lapland tour. If it’s not the season to be


jolly, though, fear not; Finland is a magnet for adventure-seekers


year round, with activities to suit all ages and interests. Snowshoeing, reindeer safaris and snowmobile expeditions are all available, and there’s plenty for skiers too, according to Katherine Page, Lapland and Norway product manager for Inghams. “Downhill skiers can enjoy


uncrowded pistes and modern lift systems,” she says. “Lapland is also an ideal place to learn cross- country skiing.” For the best resorts, suggest


Levi and Ylläs, where blindingly white slopes plunge down


15 December 2016 travelweekly.co.uk 63


FAST FACT


Icelandair will start a three-times-a-week service between Belfast City and Reykjavik on June 1


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