Luosto, Lapland - A Magical Resort Where Dreams Come True

Luosto Resort Guide

Luosto is a picturesque fell-side ski village set around 90 minutes north of Rovaniemi, nestled on the border of the Pyhä-Luosto National Park – known affectionately as "Santa's forest home." Its unspoiled wilderness setting makes it one of the most atmospheric and naturally stunning resorts in Finnish Lapland. Luosto offers: 

• A scenic national park setting full of natural wonder 

• Snow-covered fells, frozen lakes and ancient forests 

• A warm, village atmosphere ideal for families 

• Close access to husky farms, reindeer and Arctic activities 

• A variety of accommodation from cosy log cabins to full hotels 

• Fine Lappish dining at the renowned Vaisko restaurant 

Santa Experiences and Arctic Activities 

Luosto's national park surroundings provide a spectacular and authentic setting for a full range of seasonal Arctic adventures. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for more festive magic, there's something for every member of the family. 

Reindeer Sleigh Ride 

Glide through the silent, snow-laden forests of the national park on a traditional reindeer sleigh ride. A timeless Lapland experience that younger children absolutely love, and one of the most iconic ways to explore the winter wilderness around Luosto. 

Husky Adventure 

Take the reins on an exhilarating husky sled safari guided through the frozen Arctic landscape by a team of enthusiastic sled dogs. With the national park as your backdrop, this is an unforgettable experience for the whole family. 

Snowmobile Safari 

If you are on our New Year Arctic Adventure tour, you will enjoy a full snowmobile safari as experienced guides lead the way through some of the most breathtaking scenery Lapland has to offer, making for a thrilling holiday highlight. During our Christmas short breaks, children and adults will attend Speedy Sam's driving school for a short drive of the snowmobiles. Fun is guaranteed for the whole family. 

Snow Play and Winter Fun 

From tobogganing on snowy slopes to snowshoe walks through the national park, Luosto's winter landscape is a natural playground.  

Private Santa Experience 

The moment every child dreams of – a personal audience with Santa Claus himself. In Luosto, surrounded by the enchanted forest setting of the national park, the Santa experience feels especially magical and intimate. This is the memory that children (and parents) will cherish long after they return home. 

Practical Luosto Travel Information 

Flight Time: Approximately 3h 30m from the UK 

Transfer Time: Approximately 1h 30m from Rovaniemi Airport 

Time Zone: GMT +2 

Language: Finnish 

Currency: Euro 

Weather in Luosto 

Luosto enjoys reliably snowy Arctic winters, with temperatures typically ranging from around -8 °C in November, falling to -15 °C in December and -18 °C in January. The national park setting means the resort is beautifully blanketed in snow throughout the holiday season. Proper thermal clothing is essential – please check our guide to wrapping up warm in Lapland before you travel. 

Resort Facilities 

Luosto is a small, self-contained ski village with a handful of restaurants and facilities centred around the Luostotunturi Hotel. There are limited shops in the resort, so we recommend packing any essential items and snacks before your arrival. The proximity of everything within the village makes getting around on foot very straightforward. 

What is Luosto like as a resort? 

Luosto is a serene and unspoilt fell-side resort that truly earns its reputation as one of Lapland's most naturally beautiful destinations. Bordered by the ancient forests and open fells of the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, the resort has a sense of peaceful wilderness that makes it feel set apart from the outside world – exactly the kind of place where Christmas magic feels entirely believable. 

As a ski village, Luosto has a modest ski area used for recreational skiing and snowboarding, though in the December holiday season the focus shifts firmly to festive fun, Arctic adventures and the magical Santa experience. The intimate scale of the resort means everything is close together, and the atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly throughout. 

For families seeking something a little more special than a busy resort, Luosto strikes the ideal balance: genuine Arctic wilderness and a cosy, welcoming village where every detail seems designed with the magic of Christmas in mind. 

Frequently Asked Questions – Luosto Lapland Holidays 

What's included in a Luosto holiday package? 

All Canterbury Travel Luosto Lapland holidays include ATOL-protected flights, transfers, accommodation and the activities listed in each individual itinerary. Full board meals are typically included – please check the specific package details for confirmation. 

How do I get to Luosto? 

Most flights from the UK arrive at Rovaniemi Airport, from where a coach transfer of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes takes you directly to Luosto. Your Canterbury Travel holiday includes all transfers as standard. 

Is Luosto suitable for young children? 

Absolutely. Luosto's compact and peaceful village setting makes it ideal for families with young children. Distances between accommodation and activities are short, and the magical national park surroundings create a wonderfully immersive festive experience for little ones. 

Where to stay in Luosto 

Stay in authentic Lapland comfort with a range of winter accommodation options in Luosto, from traditional log cabins nestled in the snow-covered forest to a characterful fell-side hotel and spacious villas ideal for larger groups. Whether you're looking for a cosy family cabin, a roomy villa sleeping up to ten, or the convenience of a hotel with a restaurant on the doorstep, Luosto has the perfect base for your magical Lapland holiday.