Tailor made holiday in Lapland

Planet

This short break in Jeris operates with great care for the environment. This careful consideration runs through every aspect of the trip, including its activities and accommodation.

Firstly, wherever possible, the activities aim to reduce harm to the environment. When the snowmobiles are in use, two people drive one snowmobile, limiting the number of harmful chemicals that would be emitted should each guest drive their own. For the duration of the trip, guests are given free access to snowshoes. This not only endorses participation in a healthy outdoors activity but also encourages environmentally-friendly exploration of the area.

Two animal-pulled sleigh rides are also included in the itinerary, during a reindeer and a husky experience. This, again, utilises completely natural resources that do not cause any harm to the environment. The animal centres used for this trip have been carefully selected due to their utmost care and consideration for the animals. The husky centre prides themselves on the welfare and health of their huskies, and all of the huskies are visited regularly by a vet. The centre also receives an annual inspection, as the huskies’ health is their highest priority.

The provided cottage accommodation also saves energy where it can. The cottages are warmed by a natural, log burning stove, rather than using a non-renewable energy source such as electricity. Each cottage is also within walking distance of the main, Jeris Hotel, which guests will visit for its many facilities. This eliminates the need for public transport during the trip, reducing the number of cars and buses driving in the area and therefore limiting the release of harmful chemicals.

People

The accommodation is owned by a local, Finnish family, so every part of the itinerary remains close to the local community. For example, the reindeer farm is local, and the owners are extremely proud to share their farm and their knowledge with visitors, teaching them how to use a lasso and about other aspects of their lifestyle at the farm. The husky centre is also a local business, where visitors learn about the importance of the animals and their vitality to Finnish economy and lifestyle, historically and currently. It is of great benefit for the local community to share their unique and vibrant culture with foreign visitors, as knowledge and understanding of another culture breeds respect.

Guests can also learn about the community by enjoying a taste of Finnish cuisine in this locally-owned hotel, as all meals are included in the package and served in the hotel restaurant. Here, you can try the traditional buffet and a selection of delicacies such as salmon and reindeer. This allows guests to appreciate the culture and the typical food that is eaten in Finnish Lapland.

Not only do cultural experiences offer a rich and unforgettable experience, but they also benefit the locals in a monetary sense. For example, eating local produce during the trip supports local food suppliers, providing them with financial support. Visiting local farms and making the most of their activities also provides business and income for small, often family-run establishments. Travellers are vital in their trade and this, in turn, greatly benefits the community as a whole.