21winter experiences 2011/12finlandFrom log cabins to snow laden winter forests, nowhere encapsulates the winter idyll better than Finland. It's not just the deep snow but the culture and tradition that make this a magical land where reindeer outnumber humans.To discover the "real" Finland you should travel beyond the purpose built ski resorts and the "Santa Central" of Rovaniemi. That's where we come in, because we only feature uncommercialised destinations, far removed from the Aurora blurring light pollution of the larger resorts. Our destinations are places where the arrival of winter is celebrated as the bringer of a vast outdoor playground. Where snowmobiles and dog sleds are more common than cars and reindeer outnumber human residents.If you explore the snowy forests, the frozen lakes and the silent, white fells you'll discover a completely different world. Totally removed from all the stresses of life back home. When you get to know the locals and show an interest in their way of life, you'll be rewarded by a warm welcome that is in direct contrast to the sub zero temperatures outside. From family Christmas holidays and spa hotel breaks to wilderness dog sled safaris and photography holidays in pursuit of the Aurora Borealis; Finland truly has something for everyone. You can choose to experience this country in hundreds of ways.FinlandHelsinkiKuusamoSaijaNellimKakslauttanenUtsjokiMuonio & HarrinivaLuostoJerisKittilaInariMenesjärviIso SyötefinlandJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC20º15º10º5º0º-5º-10º-15º-20ºAVERAGE TEMPERATURE (ºC) JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC30AVERAGE DAYLIGHT HOURS230815maximum temp.minimum temp.

"Harriniva is where we operated our first ever winter holiday. It provided the inspiration for everything in this brochure and is as wonderful today as it was when we started. Kiitos Harriniva" Alistair McLean22Finnish Lapland - Harriniva Wilderness HotelSituated 230km North of the Arctic Circle, Harriniva combines Scandinavian style accommodation, the warmest of welcomes and a great range of activities designed to take you into the very heart of Lapland's winter wilderness.Our opinionHarriniva Wilderness HotelSituated in the heart of Lapland near the remote village of Muonio, Harriniva encapsulates the very best of Finnish Lapland. This family run hotel has 64 Scandinavian style en suite bedrooms. Most of the rooms accommodate two or three people but there are some larger bedrooms suitable for families (subject to availability).The hotel has three cosy dining rooms (including one with a log fire) and a pub, ideal for a relaxing drink after your activities. Naturally, this being Finland, there are two large saunas and a family sauna within the main building. For a bit of pampering, the Aurora Wellness Centre offers therapies such as massages and a variety of facials. On the riverbank there are two jacuzzis, two steam baths and an ice hole - for the very brave! Safari Houses and CabinsOn our longer overnight husky and snowmobile safaris you spend some nights in shared safari houses or cabins with full access to all the hotel's facilities. Each safari house or cabin has its own shower, toilet and sauna and provides the perfect place to bond with your fellow adventurers before your safari. All of your meals will be served in the main building. Wilderness CabinsAny holiday that incorporates an overnight safari will include at least one night in a wilderness cabin. Some of the cabins can be basic (no electricity or running water) but they are all comfortable and cosy, especially once the fire is burning and dinner is cooking. Sleeping arrangements are in dormitory style areas. Despite their far flung locations, there is always a sauna available - after all, this is Finland!The cabins are generally so remote that there is little or no light pollution creating the best possible chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.For more fabulous holidays at Harriniva please see our website: www.activitiesabroad.com123456