My dream winter destination would definitely be Finland, so I could take the kids. I went when I was at University and had a blast there! But that was a very long time ago now, still the memories are some of my fondest. My struggle getting the hang of cross country skiing not dampening my delight with my trip. I was in good company embracing all Finland had to offer, from riding a snowmobile, to being pulled in a sleigh by reindeer and going clubbing in winter boots because what else would you wear – seriously not one strappy sandal in sight!

I would love for us to go to Lapland in particular. The boys could have an enchanting Christmas there. We have been to Lapland UK but my youngest is quite savvy and quickly spotted that the snow was fake (nothing gets past him if I am completely honest!). I think I need to up the stakes as at 8 years old he is now very sceptical about the magic of Christmas. The one place to achieve wonderment like when they were very little is the real Lapland, I think even my youngest would start believing again after a short stay there.

A husky ride in a pine forest, the crunch of real snow underfoot as you make your way to your private meeting with Father Christmas, nothing beats that.

But its freezing there?

Yes, it’s cold there so it’s important to get cosy, the weather can be bitter. It can fall to as low as minus 35, yikes!!! Mind you if you want to make the most of the snow you have to get used to cold temperatures, fact!

Clothing

Dress with lots of layers of clothing and the right boots when outdoors. Some holiday companies provide the clothes you need on arrival so do check before travelling. Many fins believe that “‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing” so with that in mind pack carefully!

Home Comforts

For inside our log cabin I would want the thickest duvets possible from Julian Charles. I would be enjoying lots of ‘glögi’ a spiced mulled wine the Finnish like to drink hot to warm them up. It’s red wine, cinnamon, ginger and berries so the perfect Christmas drink. We would make a fire, tuck in with lots of blankets, light a few candles and enjoy the inviting ambiance we had created. Sipping back my ‘glögi’ whilst the kids enjoyed warm blackcurrant looking out at a blanket of snow.

The Sauna

I remember warming up in the sauna, most log cabins seem to have one! On my visit the guys would run out afterwards and sit in the snow to cool off in the altogether! I wasn’t quite brave enough for that so took a towel to hide my dignity. The sauna really helps you defrost after a cold day outdoors. Naturally travelling with the kids they could use the sauna but no naked dashes to the snow for anyone!

The Buildings

Also, more thought goes into the construction of the buildings, so they are generally warmer and benefit from improvements like triple glazing!

So try not to panic you really won’t feel as cold as you imagine in Finland. Just soak up all those incredible memories and have the time of your life. You can find more winter destinations over on the Julian Charles Winter Escape Destinations blog post.