Winter multi activity holidays map & highlights

Snowshoe techniques

Tom Wilkinson, snowshoeing expert at our supplier, Exodus, shares his tips on technique:
“If you can walk you can snowshoe. There are, of course, techniques/tips for going up and down, and through deeper snow, but really this is the winter sport anyone can do. With snowshoes a beginner can access places usually reserved for red hot off-piste skiers – and you’re far less likely to crash into a tree on snowshoes! Aside from thinking you’ll be using tennis racquets (modern snowshoes are sleek and light) people can forget that if you’re walking in deep snow, walking in single file means the person at the front does all the work breaking the trail, though good etiquette is to take turns doing that!”

“The sheer scale of Lapland and being able to get a feel of how the Sami live (reindeer farming, sledging with huskies, ice fishing) was wonderful. One good set of thermal underwear and woollen clothing is all that is needed. Excellent cold suit, heavy duty gloves and boots provided. Very relaxed atmosphere so no smart clothing needed. i.e. don’t spend a fortune on special clothing.” - Tom Lupton, Finnish Lapland

“Don't hesitate to opt in for the activities as the search for the Northern Lights then becomes secondary. Don't rely on seeing them and don't spend hours in a car trying to find them - do the activities and hopefully see them whilst enjoying yourself.” - John White, Finnish Lapland

“The whole thing was excellent. My children loved learning to ski and the dog sledding, but I think my favourite was the winter walk on New Year’s Day. Snow would probably be better during the February half term - but if you want to book at Christmas it is still fantastic, you just might need to be more flexible.” - Paula Stevens, Slovakia’s High Tatras

“You have to be fit to be able to enjoy the snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Skiing involves quite a bit of your thigh muscles and so does snowshoeing. The environment was really amazing and serene. Just what l really wanted, a real break from everything. My mind was so refreshed after this wonderful trip. Don't over pack. I brought way too much winter clothing.” - James Tan, Finnish Lapland

“To walk in snowy woods along paths through the trees, to hear nothing but the sound of my breath was so soul restoring. Every aspect of the trip was wonderful, the activities were tailored to individual needs, the guides and staff at the lodge were knowledgeable, helpful and good company in every way. To sum up: standing on a frozen lake gazing at a star filled sky at midnight then being blessed with the light show of one’s dreams - that's one memorable night!” - Marilyn Molyneux, Finnish Lapland

“It was good to meet people, such as the reindeer herder and the husky personnel, who were genuinely interested in the welfare of their animals. We were also impressed with the warm and friendly welcome from all the staff whose livelihood depends to a large extent on outside visitors such as ourselves.” - Linda Dixton, Finnish Lapland

“The excursions we took, husky sledging and the reindeer herder were obviously genuine locals letting us into their lives rather than tourist attractions; if we help them to survive in difficult circumstances so much the better.” - Richard Bowling, Finnish Lapland

“Do not underestimate the cold. In our 4 nights we had a temp range of -12 to -26 and taking gloves off to take photos can become a real chore. Take plenty of layers and keep them lose fitting not tight (inc 3 pairs of socks at a time). Take hand warmers (for feet as well) and a full face balaclava if possible. The hotel is cosy and the people very friendly but don't have too high an expectation of the accommodation. Rooms can be very basic and there is no choice of meal (except veg option) but the food is hearty and delicious and perfect for the climate. We enjoyed every meal.” - Steve Buckingham, Finnish Lapland

“Northern lights were amazing but so were the night time bonfires under the stars, dog sledding, skidooing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and taking photos on the bridge by the Russian border at night, and just the beautiful scenery. More light than expected in the day even though the sun did not rise above the horizon.” - Fiona Kempton, Finnish Lapland

“My favourite memory was the day we spent with the reindeer herder, sitting around the fire drinking coffee outside in the snow covered forest clearing with all the reindeer milling around us. It was so interesting hearing all about Petri's lifestyle, and the Sami culture, a real privilege.” - Norman Smith, Finnish Lapland

“This is not a glam holiday; leave all your glamour at home. For example don’t even think about wearing mascara you come back with panda eyes as the cold freezes your eye lashes, not an attractive look even in the middle of nowhere. Seriously, the main point is to make sure you wrap up warm.” - Teresa Cooper, Finnish Lapland