Tour operator TUI has announced the launch of affordable package holidays to Finland's Arctic Lakeland, debuting direct flights to Kajaani from Manchester Airport beginning December 3, 2025. This new offering aims to provide travelers with all the magic of winter festivities at competitive prices.
While Lapland has long captured the hearts of families seeking unforgettable Christmas experiences, TUI's exploration of Arctic Lakeland presents travelers with yet another charming option. Boasting vast areas of natural beauty, encompassing snow-covered castles, scenic rivers, and winter temperatures ranging from -3°C to -10°C, this hidden gem promises an enchanting holiday setting.
Chris Logan, TUI UK&I Commercial Director, expressed enthusiasm for the expanded offerings, stating, "We are thrilled to be opening Arctic Lakeland to the UK and offering families a unique Christmas experience at a lower price point. Our Lapland holidays are the most magical trips, and they sell out every year. With demand growing, we saw an incredible opportunity to open this hidden gem to UK holidaymakers, delivering everything families love about Lapland—from husky sledding and reindeer rides to meeting Santa himself."
The exclusive flights will operate twice weekly on Sundays and Wednesdays, running until December 28, 2025. TUI is excited to offer package holidays starting from £815 per person, which includes accommodation, transfers to and from the hotel, snow suits and boots, and exciting excursions. Such experiences will comprise unique winter activities, including reindeer rides, snowmobiling, and husky sleigh adventures, all framed by the backdrop of Finland’s picturesque Arctic setting.
Families can choose from four carefully selected hotels: Hotel Kajanus and Original Sokos Hotel Valjus, both located within Kajaani, as well as the Holiday Club Katinkulta and Break Sokos Vuokatti situated nearby. These hotels not only provide comfortable accommodations but also feature wellness centers, some equipped with indoor pools, saunas, and jacuzzis.
"Arctic Lakeland is the perfect destination for a Christmas break, as it combines the arctic and lakeside sides of Finland during wintertime. We look forward to welcoming our first UK guests in December," remarked Aija Laukkanen, CEO of Vuokatti Tourism Ltd.
To heighten the festive experience, each family will partake in a festive finale featuring a magical Christmas dinner on their final night, ensuring memories are made and cherished. This new initiative from TUI makes it easier for families to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse themselves in the enchanting winter wonderland.
With prices predicted to be up to £200 cheaper than traditional holiday packages to Lapland, TUI aims to make Christmas getaways more accessible than ever. With TUI's secure exclusive direct flights and their partnerships with exceptional hotels, the company is poised to redefine the family holiday experience.
Logan emphasized the importance of these changes: "By securing exclusive direct flights and working with fantastic hotels, we’re making the magic of winter wonderland more accessible and affordable than ever. We’re confident Arctic Lakeland is set to become a new favorite for festive getaways."
Meanwhile, winter enthusiasts interested only slightly off the main tourist path will appreciate the chance to enjoy Finnish winter activities without the crowds typical of more famous spots like Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus Village. This presents additional opportunities for those wanting to meet Santa—the ultimate thrill for children during the festive season.
Travelers can also indulge in various traditional Finnish seasonal offerings, which add to the richness of the holiday experience. For families drawing up their bucket lists for Christmas 2025, TUI's Arctic Lakeland package not only promises charm and lyrical beauty but also makes it all the more attainable.
With developing tourist infrastructure and fantastic winter activities, Kajaani and Vuokatti are bound to see increased popularity. Bookings for the seasonal experience are now open, and TUI is gearing up for what is likely to be yet another successful holiday season. By placing emphasis on affordability without sacrificing the enchanting allure of winter festivities, TUI is paving the way for memorable experiences for families across the UK.