84Norway - SavalenSavalen stands surrounded by stunning snowy forests and fells, it is a magical setting for a traditional Christmas and a fun-filled family activity holiday. There are fabulous winter activities and fantastic facilities for the whole family to enjoy."I was surprised to find myself reduced to an over excited 5 year old at the prospect of meeting Santa at Savalen. But that's just what happens here - it's wonderful!" Joanna DoranOur opinionThe Savalen Winter ExperienceSavalen's location encapsulates the winter dream. It overlooks a frozen, snow covered lake and is surrounded by fells and winter forests. It's not the most accessible place in the world but believe us, the journey is well worth the effort. Savalen really is the perfect place to spend a family winter holiday. The accommodation is excellent, the activities varied and fun and the whole place encapsulates winter perfectly. There are even some ski slopes and an ice rink within walking distance of your accommodation. Once you are here you have everything at your fingertips. This holiday is designed for families with children aged 3 years and over so the activities have been tailored to ensure that the whole family can participate together - it is not unusual to see three generations of one family on a husky safari. This holiday creates family memories to last a lifetime. A Genuine Father Christmas ExperienceOur holiday is designed as a fabulous Christmas time experience that incorporates Norwegian and English traditions into a family activity holiday. This of course wouldn't be complete without visiting Father Christmas. Thankfully for us, the great man lives just a short walk away. His large log built house is Savalen's centrepiece and is home to the elves' workshop, toy factory, and Father Christmas' own office.There's no "whistle stop" Santa experience here. Each family will spend a minimum of ten minutes with the big guy in red and it's often difficult to know who is more delighted, the parents or the children.This is an authentic Nordic Christmas experience and not Santa at Hamley's. At Savalen the experience provides you with lasting memories and an insight into Norwegian Christmas traditions that have captivated our families over the years. Please see our website for previous clients' reviews, we think they speak for themselves.1

85winter experiences 2011/12norwayto book call: 01670 785 087 www.activitiesabroad.comAccommodation - our opinionSavalen Fjell Hotel and SpaSavalen started life as a mountain lodge but over the past 45 years the Hektoen family have transformed it into a modern hotel with fabulous spa facilities and views to die for. The hotel is still family run and has earned a glowing reputation from its many repeat clients. Outside Norway there are not too many people who know about this winter haven. It's a closely guarded secret to which we are more than delighted to be privy. There are 64 standard rooms in the hotel with double or twin beds all of which have en suite shower and WC, TV and telephone. There is also a range of suites which can provide extra space for families. Full details can be found on our website: www.activitiesabroad.comThe restaurant offers views across the lake and serves a comprehensive evening buffet which combines both Norwegian and international cuisine. There are also two lounge areas in which the adults can relax whilst the children make use of the downstairs play room. The "piece de resistance" at Savalen is the Aqua Wellbeing Centre and Spa. There's a swimming pool with jaw dropping views through the large panelled windows, massage seats, water jet beds, waterfall, two jacuzzis, a steam grotto, sauna, Scottish shower (for the very bravest hearts only) and treatment rooms for massages and facials.Santa Street ApartmentsSanta Street is located within 300m of the restaurant, spa and swimming facilities and the person who gives the street its name lives just 100m down the way from the apartments. The ski slopes, sledging run and ice rink are also just a few minutes walk away.There are two different types of apartments. The smaller, measuring 45m², are ideal for families of four people or less. They have two bedrooms, a living area with TV, a dining area, wood burning fire and under floor heating.In addition, you will find a bath or shower room with WC as well as a well equipped open plan kitchen complete with cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer and coffee machine. We find that many families like to pack some of their favourite snacks and drinks to nibble in their apartment. You may even want to bring some Christmas decorations to put your own festive stamp on your accommodation. For parties of five or more people, the larger 68m² apartments are a great choice. These apartments have two bedrooms and a mezzanine sleeping area with extra beds (the kids love sleeping here). These apartments will accommodate up to nine people and enjoy the same facilities as those described above with the extra convenience of an additional bathroom.Bed linen and towels are included as is end of stay cleaning so it's all very simple. Your meals will be served in the hotel restaurant. Families with young children (6 and under) should give serious consideration to staying at the hotel. Yes, the lure of staying on Santa Street is compelling but in very cold conditions, you will have to ensure they are well wrapped up everytime they venture out. If you do stay in the apartments then we find many people like to use kick sledges as their preferred method of transport to and from the hotel.Photograph credit1 © Ute foto and Innovation Norway