Santa Claus Holiday Village offers a different kind of Rovaniemi stay: cottage and apartment style accommodation in the Arctic Circle area rather than a conventional hotel room. The format suits families and groups who like a little more space, a kitchen or kitchenette and the freedom to eat on their own schedule. Its position near Santa Claus Village means the Arctic Circle line, the post office and the shops are close at hand, and SantaPark is only a short distance away. The wooden cottages and surrounding forest give the stay a Lapland feel, and the cottage setting is a good match for children who want a house to explore in the snow. It works as a base for a few nights or a longer holiday in the north.
Location and getting around
The property is in the Santa Claus Village area, about eight kilometres north of the centre of Rovaniemi. The Santa Express bus line connects the area to the town, and taxis and airport transfers are easy to arrange. A car is helpful if you plan to cook for yourself and to visit supermarkets in town, but it is not essential if you rely on buses and organised tours. Check the exact distance to the village attractions and the winter walking conditions for your unit.
Rooms and atmosphere
Units are cottage and apartment style, with sleeping areas, bathrooms and cooking facilities that vary by type. Some units have a private sauna, which is a highlight on a cold evening, and many have a living area for families to spread out. The decor is practical and Nordic rather than luxurious. Heating is provided, but you should expect to dress warmly outdoors, and to keep snowy boots at the door. Check which unit type includes bedding, towels, a sauna and cleaning, since policies differ between self-catering and hotel-style stays.
Who it suits and good to know: the village is a good match for families, groups of friends and travellers staying several nights who want to cook some of their own meals. It is less suited to guests who want a restaurant, a spa and daily housekeeping on site. Winter is the busiest and most expensive season, and Christmas is often fully booked months in advance.
Bring groceries or plan a shopping trip, and book activities and Northern Lights hunts in advance. Check the policies on check-in, pets, children and cancellation before you reserve. If you travel with a group, ask about connecting units and the number of bedrooms, since layouts differ between cottages and apartments.
Why stay here
- ✓Cottage and apartment style units
- ✓Kitchen or kitchenette in many units
- ✓Saunas in some units
- ✓Near Santa Claus Village
- ✓Near SantaPark
- ✓Santa Express bus link to the centre
- ✓Space for families and groups
- ✓Forest setting
Good questions
Where is Santa Claus Holiday Village?+
It is in the Santa Claus Village area of Rovaniemi, about eight kilometres north of the centre.
Can I cook my own meals?+
Many units have a kitchen or kitchenette. Check the facilities for the unit type you choose.
Is a car necessary?+
Not essential. The Santa Express bus and taxis connect the area, but a car helps if you plan to shop and cook.
