Finnish Winter Adventure - Family Holiday

Day 1
Fly to Kuusamo; transfer to Basecamp Oulanka.

Day 2
Half-day husky safari. After sorting out all of your equipment needed for a week in arctic conditions there is then a free morning to try sledging around the areas of Basecamp, or enjoy a game of football or hockey in the deep snow. All games equipment are available free of charge from the front desk. After lunch, we head off for the husky safari in the neighbouring Riisitunturi National Park. We start with a tuition on how to ride on the sled and the importance of caring for the huskies correctly. We then head off into the woods where our teams of dogs eagerly await our arrival, ready to take us on our 10km mushing adventure. Our route takes us deep into the National Park and up onto the surrounding fjell where we are rewarded with a fantastic view. With the adults driving and the children sitting in the sled, you are able to really appreciate the serenity of this beautiful snow-laden landscape.

Day 3
Snowshoeing. Gentle half-day snowshoe walk in the Oulanka National Park past frozen waterfalls and following the Kitkajoki River.There is a free afternoon for further snowshoeing, sauna or hot-tub.

Day 4
Experience the Scandinavian-born sport of cross-country skiing. Heading down to the nearby Juuma lake, our instructor will literally walk us through the basics of how to cross-country ski. There may be a few tumbles to start with, but in the soft snow this is half the fun. After becoming more confident on the skis we then head out onto the lake, gliding through the virgin powder. In the afternoon, keep hold of your skis as there is the option of further unguided skiing in the area.

Day 5
Explore Ruka and optional activities. Spend the day at the popular ski resort of Ruka. Your guide will organise transfers (included) and book activities for you. Downhill skiing and snowmobile safaris are available. See 'Extra Expenses' section below. In the late afternoon we visit the reindeer farm and museum where everyone will have the chance to ride on a reindeer sleigh, and try lasso throwing. The evening then draws to a close with some hot drinks and some reindeer sausages round an open fire.

Day 6
Leisurely morning free to relax with afternoon children's snow games. After lunch the afternoon is spent in the children's snow park, which is supervised by the Basecamp guides. Amongst other activities, here children have the opportunity to learn how to build an igloo. Follow the 'snow trail', which leads to a teepee where hot drinks and pancakes are served. Families can also have a go at making a snow sculpture.

Day 7
Free day. Options include unguided cross-country skiing and snowshoeing; downhill skiing at nearby Ruka (transport and skiing not included); or further dogsledding and snowmobile safaris. There is also a possibility for ice climbing for all ages. As a farewell celebration, we have the option of eating dinner around a campfire, or in a tepee (Kota) on the edge of the National Park.

Day 8
Transfer to Kuusamo and fly to London.