Finland and Sweden from 24 June 2009.

For the 10^th time the Midnight Sun Golf 90 Holes Marathon Tournament is to take place on the unique Green Zone Golf course. The national boundary between Finland and Sweden falls across in the middle of a green. During every round of this non-stop four day and three night tournament golfers cross the time zone and the border. 

The golf course is situated near the towns of Tornio and Haparanda. The first round starts on Wednesday afternoon on 24th June.

This tournament consists of teams, with six players in each team and two substitutes are allowed. The tournament is played under the scrambling scoring system.

Throughout the event there will be get-togethers for the players and the event will be rounded off with an evening of festivities to mark the grand finale in the "Land of the Midnight Sun".

This will be at Tornio City Hotel where the evening will start with a prize ceremony followed by a delicious dinner.

For further details click here

13 June 2009 in Muonio, Finnish Lapland

From May 2009 watch the bears in the Wild Taiga forests of Eastern Finland.

From early May BearCam will feed live pictures from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. the time when the bears are at their most active. The Midnight Sun that the region enjoys will make filming possible during summer and then as Autumn approaches the camera will be equipped with infrared.

The camera will be located in Eastern Finland very close to the Russian border in the ever green Wild Taiga forest. As well as bears, which are often seen in this area, there is also a possibility that the cameras will capture much rarer mammals:  wolves and wolverines which have now disappeared from much of Europe.

It is also possible to visit the area to view bears and if you are lucky wolverines and wolves in person.

In April they are already experiencing ling days with sunrise at 04.40 and sunset at 21.00.  The first bears start to appear at the end of March, when the snow cover can be one metre deep. At night the temperature can still drop below zero. Weather conditions can change rapidly from snow showers to bright sunshine. There can be  plenty of snow until the end of April, and the pond is often frozen until May. Wolverine become active during April.

As the summer arrives the days get longer and longer with nearly all of June and July remaining light 24 hours a day. This makes for ideal bear watching conditions. Flying squirrel pictured above.

Wild Brown bear offer two types of hide. The larger hides take up to 8 people and there is a guide on hand to offer information (one is pictured above). Then there are the smaller photography hides, for 1 to 3 people, which are slightly closer but without a guide (a floating photography hide pictured below). Once in the hides from early evening you cannot return to the centre until escorted the following morning. The hides do have bunks in them and snacks are provided. The hides are in various forest, swamp and lakeside locations.

Bears are extremely shy, absolute silence in the hides is required. The bears are used to the sounds of cameras. There are usually several different bears in the area. In 2008 as many as 9 bears were seen simultaneously. Altogether 25 different bears were seen during the season. There is a 98% probability of seeing a bear.

For those wishing for a longer stay in the area the Wild Brown Bear centre has accommodation and a restaurant.

For further details on bear watching in Finland and prices click here.

Watch this space for the link to the BearCam!

Snow levels, Lifts and Pistes.

Finland and in particular Finnish Lapland is enjoying what used to be typical winter conditions after a couple of years of slightly milder weather. Frequent snowfall ensures that the already healthy snow levels continue to be topped up.

This is the perfect time to be in Lapland and Northern Finland, spring has arrived. That is not the spring as those further south in Europe envisage it, bulbs flowering and the greenery emerging, but the Arctic version of long, long sunny days, crystal clear blue skies and perfect winter sport conditions.

Below are the Snow and piste information for Finland top Ski areas.

Information as of 23 March 2009
Resort	Location	Lifts open	Pistes Open	Natural Snow Level	Cross country ski trails open
Levi	Western Finnish Lapland	26 of 26	44 of 44	80cm	230 km
Yllas	Western Finnish Lapland	27 of 29	58 of 61	100cm	300km
Ruka	Northern Finland	19 of 20	28 of 29	75 cm	519.5 km
Syote	Northern Finland	12 of 12	24 of 24	80 cm	120 km

28 December 2009 – 01 January 2010.

Blow away the cobwebs after all the over indulgences at Christmas with an exhilarating activity holiday in Finnish Lapland. Emagine offers two brilliant locations.

For Adults and Older teens – Hotel Harriniva

In a pretty riverside location in Lapland on the Finnish-Swedish border this holiday offers extensive activities in a beautiful setting. Enjoy a 50km snowmobile safari, a husky safari, tobogganing, visit a reindeer farm and eat lunch in a Snow Castle. See in the New Year not once but twice!

For further details click here.

For everyone – Hotel Jeris

Set deep in the forest over a frozen lake Hotel Jeris is the ideal location for those wishing to get away from it all. Accommodation is in pretty cabins set in the forest or the hotel. The holiday offers the ideal combination of exciting activity (Snowmobiling and a husky sled ride)  and free time allowing you to explore this beautiful location and to enjoy your cosy accommodation as a family. You set the pace.

For further details click here.

Emagine re-introduce their popular day visits for December 2009.

Emagine have re-introduced due to popular demand their day visits to meet Santa in Finnish Lapland.

They will offer 3 departures.

19 December from London Gatwick

21 December from Manchester

23 December from Leeds Bradford.

The Emagine day visits to Meet Santa in Lapland will include:

❄ Non-Stop flights UK to Ivalo. A hot breakfast on the outbound journey and a hot dinner on the return.

❄ Private coach transfers in small groups with dedicated guides to ensure a more pleasant and enjoyable day.

❄ Special thermal outer clothing (Suit, boots,woollen socks, hat, mittens and scarf).

❄ All activites as outlined in the itinerary which include:

Reindeer Sleigh ride, Snowmobile treks, Husky sledge ride, Tandem Skiing,

Tobogganing, Ice Fishing, Crossing the Arctic Circle ceremony

❄ Meet Santa one family at a time.

❄ A hot lunch featuring traditional Finnish Christmas fare with special favourites for the children.

❄ An Arctic Circle crossing certificate and a Reindeer driving licence.

❄ A gift from Santa for everyone.

❄ All airport taxes and personal service charges.

❄ Personal Service from experienced Emagine guides

For further details click here

Enontekiö Ice Fishing weeks 24 Apr – 01 May 2009.

Book now for the 16-19 Dec 2008 Special offer to visit Santa in Syote.

Book before the by 31 July 2008 and receive a £75 per person discount on the brochure / web prices for the 16-19 December 2008 departures from Manchester and Luton to visit Santa in Northern Finland.

Syöte, which is often called the gateway to Lapland and is located in northern Finland just below the Arctic Circle, and is home to Finland’s southern most fells.

This really is a beautiful, but isolated location, the nearest large village with shops is 35km away, but is a must for those looking for unspoilt nature, open spaces and a wide range of exhilarating activities.

The hotels, Iso-Syote and Syote Keskus, sit on top of these gentle fells and allow easy access to the surrounding nature, excellent tobogganing and a chance to try skiing on the adjacent slopes.

Meet Santa, once, as a family while he rests in a forest cabin and again at the Christmas party on the final evening. Take part in husky and snowmobile safaris. Try your hand at ice fishing, snow shoeing, riding in a reindeer pulled sled and quad biking.

For further details on the 16-19 December holiday to Hotel Iso Syote click here

Be a Snow and Ice Princess for a day.

Over the past few years we at Emagine have had the pleasure of arranging many weddings in the far north of Finnish Lapland at Hotel Kakslauttanen.  The couples have always been unique, varying in age, some travelling alone and others with hundreds of guests but the one thing they have all had in common is their dream of a winter wonderland wedding.

At Kakslauttanen they have created the perfect setting. Accommodation is in individual cosy log cabins set in the forest.  All have fireplace and sauna, ideal for those evenings in. Alternatively there is the Queen suite complete with four poster bed and private outdoor hot tub!

Weddings can be arranged in a simple wooden chapel or when conditions allow a stunning Ice Chapel. The most popular method of transport between the cabins and chapel has been reindeer pulled sleighs. Round the day off with celebratory drinks in a glass tepee and a wedding dinner in the hotels pretty log restaurant.

There is something else that adds to this special location…….igloos. You can choose between heated glass igloo’s that allow uninterrupted views of the nights sky and hopefully Aurora Boralis or the may braver choose Ice igloo’s that are created at the start of each winter.  In the Ice igloos you will be provided with cosy sleeping bags and sleeping hats to ward off the cold.

While at Kakslauttanen many of our wedding couples and their guests have headed out on exhilarating husky safaris and explored the beautiful nearby fells on snowmobiles. They certainly come home with pictures of their wedding or honeymoon unlike anyone else’s.

 For further details of weddings at Hotel Kakslauttanen in Finnish Lapland click here.

We would like to thank Mr & Mrs Greensmith for allowing us to use some of their photos of their special day.

Short breaks throughout December at cosy Hotel YlläsHumina.

For those wishing to visit Lapland but wanting greater independence we strongly recommend our Exclusive Arctic breaks to Finnish Lapland in December 2008. Direct flights from Gatwick throughout December 2008 including Christmas and New Year make visiting this winter paradise a breeze.

Hotel YlläsHumina is a friendly family run hotel in western Finnish Lapland at the foot of Ylläs Fell in the village of Äkäslompolo. It is the ideal base for winter activities. If it is skiing that you are looking for, downhill and cross country, the ski centre of Ylläs is just 5km away and cross country ski trails run through the village. Alternatively you can choose from an exhilarating range of husky, reindeer and snowmobile safaris from the village.

You are guaranteed a warm welcome to this hotel. At its heart is the reception building also home to a popular restaurant and the Humina pub where you can relax in front of an open fire. Its cosy accommodation is located in individual rustic log houses each of which has four comfortable hotel rooms.

Holiday dates: 12-15 Dec / 15-19 Dec / 19-23 Dec / 23-28 Dec / 28 Dec - 02 Jan 2009.

For full details of the holidays click here.

To download the information click here.

Under the Midnight Sun of Finnish Lapland.

This crazy and unique tournament takes place in Tornio, on the border between Finnish and Swedish Lapland from 25-28 June 2008. Making the most of the famous never ending summer days of Lapland the event is played around the clock.  Another anomaly of the unique setting is that during each round players will be crossing times zones and the border!

The teams are made up of six players, each of whom has to play 90 holes during the event. The tournament is not for the faint hearted but is starting to attract the attention of golfers across the world.

For further details contact Green Zone Golf Course

tuula.nyholm@telia.com

Paddle through spectacular Finnish nature from Pieksämäki to Lahti.

This popular international canoe event takes place for the 24^th time this coming June. This unique event is the longest canoe / kayak relay event in the world and lasts for 6 continuous days.

100 teams and 1000 paddlers are expected to take part in the event. The teams are made up of club, company and family teams. The route is safe and well marshalled so the event is also ideal for beginners.

Each team is made up of between 6 and 12 paddlers. The 532 km route is broken down into 29 stages of between 6 and 30 km.

The paddler’s journey at an approximate speed of 6 km per hour through stunning Finnish countryside making the most of the long, long summer days.

Click here to go to the official event website.

An amazing week of activities for everyone in Finnish Lapland.

New for 2009 is a wonderful activity week in one of Finnish Laplands most spectacular and unspoilt locations, Hotel Jeris. The hotel and cabins are set deep in the forest in western Lapland, 45 minutes from Kittila airport and 20 minutes from the small village of Muonio.

For those wanting to truly get away from it all and relax doing, fun, new activities as a couple or family this is the ideal place.

Accommodation is in cosy cabins set in the forest. All have a private sauna and fireplace.

At the heart of the location is the main hotel building, where meals are taken in a restaurant offering panoramic view across the frozen lake. You can also relax after a busy day with drinks by the fire in the bar.

During the week your guides will show you how to cross country ski so you can set off in your free time to explore the miles of silent trails through the national park. They will take you out on a snowshoe walk through the spectacular surrounding forests pointing out the local nature.

You will visit a local reindeer museum to learn more about reindeer husbandry and feed the reindeers.  On another day, following tuition from your guide, you will set off on an adventure on snowmobiles (children travel in sleighs) across the frozen lake and through the forest stopping to take in the beautiful views across the fells and for a picnic lunch. For many the highlight of the week will be the visit to the small friendly husky farm where you can meet the dogs and will be whisked off on a 2 hour husky safari.

While all the activity is great fun what many will remember from their visit to Jeris will be the smaller things. Such as the silence, taking a crazy dip in the lake ice pool, the fun evenings tobogganing through the forest or standing on the huge frozen lake mesmerised by the Aurora Borealis.

Jeris allows you to combine some much needed quality private family time with once in a life time experiences.

For the full itinerary and prices click here.

Three fabulous locations in Finnish Lapland – which one is for you?

At Emagine we have chosen three very different locations and itineraries for our New Year holidays but whichever you choose we promise you will return special memories that will last a life time. After a hectic Christmas there is nothing better than escaping to clean air, exhilarating activities and a chance for some quality time away from the TV and daily stress.

Come and recharge your batteries in Finnish Lapland.

Hotel Jeris, near Muonio, Finnish Lapland.

For all ages.                           

6 days.

Our New Year guests at Hotel Jeris in Lapland last year never stopped talking about the setting, the scenery and the silence. It is a wonderful location, set deep in the forest, by a huge frozen lake and with a National Park on its boundary.

The holiday is a balance of activity and free time. It includes a snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm and a husky safari but on the other days you get to set the pace. Some guests chose to book on additional safaris, some collected cross country skis and explored the trails through the National park, others relaxed in the spa pools or curled up and read a book. It is fair to say that everyone tobogganed!

Following dinner on New Years Eve everyone had their fortune told and then headed onto the lake, a drink in hand, to see in the New Year and admire the fireworks.

Jeris is ideal for those wishing to get away from the crowds, have some activity but still have free time as a couple or family enjoying the cabins with their private saunas and fireplaces.

For further details click here.

Hotel Harriniva, Muonio Finnish Lapland.

For teens and adults only.     

6 days.

At Harriniva for New Year our safaris are longer so not recommended for younger visitors. When you head off on snowmobiles it will be across the fells, taking in the most spectacular views and with a stop for lunch in a lakeside chalet along the way.  Your husky safari will take you though the forest, with simple lunch served in a traditional kota.

Even though the group will not include children it doesn’t mean you have to hide the child in you, especially when we head off to the local ski slopes for some tobogganing!

There is also an opportunity to learn more about the region, its animals and the indigenous Sami people during a visit to the village of Hetta. Lunch will be served in the amazing Hetta Snow Castle.

Life at Harriniva are quite relaxed with evenings spent relaxing over dinner, a drink in the bar or maybe soaking in the lakeside hot tubs.

On New Years Eve following dinner and some fortune telling head outside onto the ice, not once but twice to celebrate the Finnish and then the Swedish New Year with drinks and fireworks before hitting the disco in the bar.

For further details click here.

Hotel Riekonlinna, Saariselka, Finnish Lapland.

For all ages.               

7 days.

Hotel Riekonlinna is located in the lovely northern Lapland resort of Saariseka. We have planned the holiday so you have a mixture of organised and free time so you can design your holiday to meet your family’s needs. It includes a long snowmobile safari and a long husky safari, both with lunch served along the way. On other days you can choose from an exciting range of additional optional safaris. You may decide to head off to the nearby ski slopes, spa swimming pool or try the resorts 2km toboggan run. We have included some dinners in the hotel so you can make new friends and other evenings are free so you can try the resorts excellent restaurants whether in search of pizza or some local delicacies!

On New Years Eve enjoy dinner in the hotel before stepping outside to take in the fireworks that are set off around the resort.

Emagine staff will be on hand throughout your stay to help you make the most of the amazing location.

For further details click here.

Visit Santa in the most magical settings, away from the madding crowd!

At Emagine this week we have launched our Santa Holidays to Finnish Lapland and Northern Finland. You can choose from 4,5 and 6 day holidays the most magical settings: isolated fell top hotels, cabins set deep in snow covered forests or picturesque resorts.

As you know this is where Santa Claus lives and he is often seen out and about training his reindeers. You will get to meet him twice. Once, as a family, as he rests in a cabin and again at a Christmas party.

You will take part in a host of exhilarating activities such as husky safaris, snowmobiling, tobogganing, reindeer rides, ice fishing, snow hockey…………….and lots more.

For a full list of dates and itineraries click here.

Choose from in a number of stunning resorts. Click on the hotel name for a full description.

you can take a dip!

After an exciting day of husky safaris, snowmobiling, ice fishing and of course meeting Santa we return to our hotel.

For many there is no such thing as too much snow and they head straight back outside to go tobogganing, skiing or making snowmen.

Others they reach a point where they can’t spend another second in all of those layers of thermals, jumpers and safari clothing. Some head for the bar for a well earned drink while others decide they are off for a dip.

Taking a dip varies dramatically depending where you are……….

In Saariselka, north eastern Lapland, in the Holiday Club Hotel is the fabulous  swimming pool with slides, spa pools and wave machine. Entrance to the pool is free to Holiday Club guests. Guests from other hotels are welcome but pay an entrance fee.

At Hotel Iso-Syote in Northern Finland guests can enjoy a relaxing warming sauna and take a dip in their cooling indoor pool.

At Hotel Jeris, western Lapland, taking a dip can involve more of a challenge if you are feeling brave.

While most guests choose to soak in the wonderful warm lakeside spa pools the crazier guests take a short swim in the outdoor lake pool!

At Hotel Harriniva, in western Lapland, there isn’t a pool but clients can hire an outdoor hot tub in a snowy riverside setting. The braver adults can take a dip in an ice hole!

It goes without saying that as this is Lapland all of the locations have a warming sauna to hop into after your dip!

Jack and the recruits experience extreme Finnish Lapland with Emagine UK Ltd.

As well as arranging holidays to Finnish Lapland to meet Santa, Lapland winter activity holidays and general travel to Scandinavia here at Emagine we are sometime approached to put our Arctic expertise to other uses. When Ginger TV, part of the Scottish Media Group, were looking for a cold location to challenge Jack Osbourne as part of the Adrenaline Junky 3 series they came to us.

We knew just the place and set about putting together a journey through one of Europe’s last true wildernesses, in north western Finnish Lapland. The journey was to use husky teams and would cover over 100km, setting up camp on fells and frozen lakes along the way.

Filming took place in late April 2007 to make the most of the already long Lapland Arctic days, when it stays light until after 10pm, when there is hopefully lots of sun and the area is still covered in several metres of snow.

The program, currently being aired on ITV2, shows Jack and the recruits experiencing some extreme conditions and taking in some breathtaking sights during the journey.  Prior to arriving in Finnish Lapland they had already been filming in New Zealand and the steaming jungles of Sarawak so the Arctic conditions seemed even more extreme.

After kitting them out with essential cold weather clothing, suits, boots, mitts and hats they were ready to face the Arctic.

The journey started in Kilpisjarvi (Finnish Lapland), over 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. The region they travelled through is above the tree line so the only vegetation poking through the snow is shrub but certainly not trees therefore allowing vast breathtaking uninterrupted snowy vistas.

This really is the middle of nowhere so all equipment and supplies have to be taken in with you.

Jack and his recruits were put through their paces at Harriniva, one of Europes largest Husky farms. Experts gave them advice on handling their husky sleds and tips on motivating their team of huskies which would be essential once in the wilderness.

After a day of training in calm weather conditions they harnessed up their husky teams, loaded their sleds and set off towards the fells. It wasn’t long before they found themselves in the middle of a blizzard with strong winds swirling snow, limiting visibility and making going tough. The only option was to set up an emergency camp making the most of the limited shelter in this open terrain.

The team fought to put up their tents in gusting conditions. Once this was achieved all they could do was crawl into their sleeping bags, exhausted, and hope that mother nature would be kinder to them the following morning.

The following morning brought a spectacular cold bright Arctic day. Crystal clear blue skies, perfect visibility, a warming sun and never ending pure white snow.

For the rest of the adventure you will have to tune in to ITV2 next week to see how Jack and his recruits coped in the Arctic.

If you want a taste of what Jack and the recruits experienced, in possibly less extreme conditions why not join one of our husky safaris this coming winter.   Click here for details.

What would you rather be doing this New Year?   Is it a tough choice?

Our New Year holiday at Harriniva is designed with adults and teens in mind as we wanted to offer safaris that will take your breath away. These safaris are not tasters, they are the real thing.

Maybe the following will help you to decide where you want to be this New Year!

Would you rather be.......

staying at home

Queuing for the winter sales!

in Lapland

Taking an exhilarating drive on a snowmobile through what is Europe’s last true wilderness.  Stopping for lunch in an isolated wilderness cabin while taking in the views across the frozen lake.

Would you rather be.......

Under duress, take the dog for a walk in the drizzle.

in Lapland

allowing an energetic team of huskies to take you for a ride of a life time, a truly breathtaking adventure.

 Following a tour of one of Europes largest husky farms and training by the experts you will be off along trials through beautiful snow covered forests only stopping for a fireside lunch along the way.

Would you rather be.......

Having yet another evening lolling on the sofa watching repeats on TV and picking through the remains of the Christmas chocolates.

in Lapland

Taking an evening walk along the banks of the frozen Muonio river or soaking in one of the riverside hot tubs while, if lucky, enjoy one of the most amazing light shows provided by nature; Aurora Borealis or the northern lights. If you are going to experience them anywhere in the world it will be here. Every time they appear they are unique in their combination of colour and fluidity.

Would you rather be.......

Going to bed in your pajamas and socks and leaving the heating on

in Lapland

Curling up in your sleeping bag wearing your woolly hat in a chamber in the ice igloo! After a bedtime hot chocolate, the days activities and the fresh air will soon see you fast asleep.

Would you rather be.......

Spending New Year with the same old faces, queuing for taxis and waiting for Big Ben to chime.

in Lapland

Enjoying dinner in the fireside restaurant then out on to the ice twice to see in the Finnish and an hour later Swedish New Years with drinks and fireworks. The party continues until the early hours.

We could go on for ever, we haven’t even mentioned the visit to the reindeer farm, tobogganing down the fell, dinner in the Lapp kota, ice fishing………..for the full itinerary click here.

Whether it is for an hour or for a week Finnish Lapland is the place to go.

Husky safaris, dog sledding, mushing are names used for the same amazing experience, being in charge of a very fit team of well trained dogs that are pulling a sled across a snow covered landscape. It is the most exhilarating way to travel that also allows you to get close to nature and experience the silence of some of the last unspoilt regions of Europe.

Traditionally mushing would have been with pure Siberian huskies or the larger Alaskan huskies / Malamutes but over the years the people sledding at a competitive level have cross bred their huskies with other breeds for greater speed or endurance. This was very effective but the dogs just don’t have the beauty of the pure huskies. Throughout Lapland you will find quite a combination of dogs although they tend to be going back to using purer Siberian pedigrees.

A visit to Finnish Lapland during winter will give you an opportunity to try a husky safari for your self whether that is for an hour or for a week.  Once you are kitted out with the appropriate outer safari thermal clothing you are ready for the training. A husky guide will explain how to handle the sled, control the break, set the anchor and for longer safaris how to motivate and care for your dogs.

It may be one or two people per sled, one standing and controlling it and the other seated. Which ever you choose it is a ride of a life time. Initially as you approach the teams they are all barking and jumping which is quite intimidating but you soon realise that is only because they are so desperate to get underway. Once you take your foot off the break and they set off and there is total silence which is an absolute contrast to the mayhem of just seconds before.

There is nothing sweeter than crossing a frozen lake or open fell pulled by a husky team at full stretch. Put your foot on the break at this point and you will be repaid with dirty looks from your dog team that will leave you in no doubt as to what they think of your actions! However that is not always the case, if the snow is very deep or the hill steep you have to be prepared to hop off the runners at the back, not letting go of the sled or you can wave goodbye to you team and cargo, and push like a team player.

We have husky safaris throughout Lapland to meet everyone’s needs and time scale. Many start with just an hours drive but always end up wanting more. Many of our clients joining the husky activity weeks are returning to Finnish Lapland for the second or third time having caught the mushing bug!

Short but sweet Husky safaris in Finnish Lapland and Northern Finland.

Husky Safaris lasting from an hour to a day.

Saariselka

Iso Syote

Loma Vietonen

Harriniva

Jeris

Yllas in December

Yllas January – March

Kakslauttanen in December

Kakslauttenen January - March

Luosto

Rovaniemi

Ruka in December

Longer Husky Safaris in Finnish Lapland and Northern Finland for winter 2007 / 2008.

Harriniva husky weekend

Harriniva husky week

Harriniva activity week incl 2 day husky

Finn Jann Multi Activity week incl 3 days husky  

The latest leg of the Off Road Orienteering Cup.

Competitors will be arriving in Raajärvi, Lapland today to prepare for tomorrows early start of this 24 hour orienteering event. The Old Mining Village in Raajärvi, the best off road centre in Finland, is located approximately 65km from the Lapland capital of Rovaniemi. This is the third Lapland Trophy.

Lapland is still benefiting from the midnight sun making this 24 hour event a little easier for the competitors.

Competitors travel from control point to control point in 4x4 and all terrain vehicles in this orienteering and endurance competition. Upon reaching a control point competitors must take a photo of themselves simultaneously touching their vehicle and the control point number card as proof.

The Lapland Trophy is the second competition of the Finnish Off-Road Orienteering-CUP series this year.

The mention of a snorkel in the recommended equipment list must give competitors cause for concern!

A winch is highly recommended. If the car does not have one, an off road jack and/or manual tackle is strongly recommended as a minimum. Snorkels and other special equipment may be recommended when necessary.

The images are of previous Off Road Orienteering events.

Below are the competition rules in case you want to prepare for next years event.

Common rules for all competition classes:

            • Local traffic regulations MUST be observed when driving on public roads

            • During the competition the speed limit on unpaved roads is max 50 km/h, some roads may have a lower speed limit, indicated by speed limit signs

            • On paved roads the speed limit is max 80 km/h, unless a lower speed limit is indicated by speed limit signs

            • Always wear a seatbelt while driving on the road

            • Control points sign support (tree etc.) must never be used for winching

            • You may cross power lines, but driving along them is forbidden, and power line poles may NEVER be used for winching

            • Phone lines, oil- or gas pipes, railways etc.; same strict restrictions than for power lines

            • If an area is limited by sealing off lines, the winch cable may cross the sealing off line, but the car must NOT cross the sealing off line

            • Any equipment in and on the car must be properly fastened

            • Double wheels, traction chains etc. are forbidden

            • Axes, saws, chainsaws etc. must not be used and must be removed from car

            • Any assistance outside the competition is forbidden

            • Assistance offered or accepted by the organisers and equally available to all competitors is allowed

            • Only the competitors in the team are allowed inside the car, except in emergencies

            • Car maintenance and repairs may be done only by persons registered as competitors or service persons, and service cars must be registered in advance to the competition

            • Assistance from other competitors or their service persons is allowed

            • A competition car may only be towed by another competition car, not by service cars or outsiders

            • Outsiders may not carry competitors, service persons, tools, spare parts etc. for or to the competitors without competition jury permission in advance, except in emergencies

            • Service cars may only drive along roads that are suitable for a normal road car

            • Trailers are not allowed to be used during the competition to move competition cars

For further details of the event and to follow the event click here.

For details on visiting Rovaniemi click here.

When will the Lapp ski resorts commit?

Every year in Finnish Lapland and northern Finland ski areas compete for the honour of getting at least a few of their ski slopes open first. 

This mad race takes place months ahead of anything the ski resorts in the Alps could dream of. If temperatures are right the snow machines are switched on in early October.

The popular ski resort of Ruka in eastern Finland has already published dates for its opening weekend as   26-28 October 2007. The event attracts skiers from all over Finland where they celebrate when not skiing listening to the numerous live bands around the resort. The weekend culminates in the seasons first Suomi Slalom, a giant slalom race, on the Sunday.

Other ski areas: Levi, Yllas, Iso-Syote and Saariselka have yet to commit to opening dates but weather permitting they will be aiming for October or early November. All locations like to mark the opening weekend in a party atmosphere so pack your skis and dancing shoes and head north!

As well as the battle to open the slopes just as important, for the Finns possibly more so, is the race to get the first kilometres of cross country trails open. Cross country ski teams from across the world rush to Lapland to get in that all important pre season training.

To find out more about Lapland ski areas click here.

To visit Ruka for a pre-Christmas Ski break click here.

Cycling event takes place in Finnish Lapland on 04 August 2007.

A challenging course has been set for cyclists through the Kätkä fell’s surrounding Levi in Western Finnish Lapland for this 40 and 80km event.

The mens individual and team event is 80 km and the women’s event is 40km.

There is prize money for winning teams and for route record holders.

For further details click here.

December getaways to Lapland with direct flights from Gatwick and Manchester.

For those who want to get away for a short break in December and benefit from beautiful locations, romantic accommodation, great activities, direct flights but do not want to be part of a group or to visit Santa, Emagine is offering four Exclusive Arctic breaks locations. They will appeal to couples wanting to get away from the crowds or families that may have visited Lapland before and this time wants to do things at a more leisurely pace. Departures available pre Christmas, over Christmas and for the New Year!

Hotel YllasHumina in Akaslompolo / Yllas, western Finnish Lapland, is a small family run hotel with cosy cabin room accommodation for one to four people. It allows easy the excellent ski slopes or you can choose from a wide range of optional activities. You set the pace.

Direct flights from: London Gatwick with holidays from 4 to 6 days.   

Departures: 07 Dec, 10 Dec, 14 Dec, 17 Dec, 21 Dec, 23 Dec, 27 Dec.

Activities available in the resort: Skiing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, reindeer safaris, husky safaris.

Hotel Kakslauttanen near Saariselka, Finnish Lapland. This is a popular location for those looking for a quiet romantic break. Accommodation is in pretty cabins set among the forest all with private sauna and fireplace. Meals are take in the log cabin restaurant in front of roaring fires. Explore the area on cross country skis or joining one of the exhilarating safaris. A highlight of staying at Kakslauttanen is the opportunity to overnight in their unique glass igloos while watching out for the Northern Lights!

Direct flights from: London Gatwick with holidays from 4 to 6 days.   

Departures: 07 Dec, 10 Dec, 14 Dec, 17 Dec, 21 Dec

Activities available from the hotel:  cross country skiing, snowmobiling, reindeer safaris, husky safaris.

Hotel Jeris – Adult Activity break 10-14 Dec 2007.

A chance to experience amazing activities and stay in a wonderful, quiet setting deep in the forest either in a hotel or in a lakeside wooden cabin. Jeris is located in western Finnish Lapland.

We are aware that some adults are looking for longer activities that are just not possible when there  are children in tow they have designed this trip with longer safaris and just for adults.  

Direct flights from: London Gatwick for a 5 day holiday..   

Departures: 10-14 Dec.

Activities included in your holiday: 50km snowmobile safari & 5 hour husky safari.

Other activities available from the hotel:  cross country skiing, reindeer safaris, ice hole swimming, snow shoeing.

Hotel Rukahovi in the wonderful resort of Ruka in Northern Finland.

18-22 Dec 2007.

This is a great location for anyone wishing to ski or snowboard. The slopes and lifts are just a few steps from your hotel door. If that doesn’t appeal join a great range of safaris, the activity company is next to the hotel. Ruka always has a great buzz about it, with a great range of cosy bars and diverse restaurants to relax in after an energetic day. The dates make this the ideal trip to start your holiday break allowing you to get some pure fresh air and exercise before the Christmas gluttony!

Direct flights from: Manchester for a 5 day break   

Departures: 22 Dec 2007

Activities available from the hotel:  Down hill skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, reindeer safaris, husky safaris.

For further details of the holidays click on the headings above of click here.

Swamp Soccer World championships celebrates 10th Anniversary!

As the football season ends in the UK those of you that cannot survive without a football fix until the Charity Shield may want to check out the Swamp Soccer World Championships.

This years sees the 10^th anniversary of this fun event that takes place in Hyrynsalmi in Finland each summer. The 2007 event will be held from 12th - 15th July 2007 in the original and now legendary Vuorisuo swamp.

The event now attracts up to 30,000 visitors with teams and supporters from around the globe, many of whom that have returned home over the years to set up their own leagues.

If you are interested in seeing the crazy event please do not hesitate to contact us for help with your travel arrangements. The nearest domestic airport can be found at Kajaani. Hyrynsalmi is approximately 600km drive from Helsinki, in eastern Finland.

For further details on the event click here to enter the official website

For further details of visiting Helsinki and beyond click here.

Life in the nursery in Lapland.

A few photos to show how Harriniva's latest puppies are progressing. They are growing so fast.

There is already snow on the ground in places in Lapland and at night time they are experiencing temperatures as low as -10.
That of course will be nothing to the puppies, as the winter progresses they must be prepared to function in tempratures as low as -40.
As a rule it is the warmer weather the dogs dislike, even temperatures of -5 are not pleasant when the dogs are working, whisking their sleds through the forzen forests. They are happiest and -10 and below! 

If you want experience husky sleding in Lapland click here.

The way ahead with lower emissions and less noise pollution.

The Finnish factory of Canada Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) has developed the world's first natural gas-powered snowmobile, it said Wednesday.

The Lynx-branded model is to be sold mainly to central European skiing resorts, which requested the development of a gas-powered alternative a couple of years ago.

Using gas instead of petrol as fuel significantly cuts emissions as well as engine noise. Further, natural gas is up to 70 per cent cheaper than petrol.

In Austria, for example, there are about 40 natural gas filling stations.

To visit Finnish Lapland to try snowmobiling, sadly not yet the natural gas-powered verion click here. 

Just released for sale is the Emagine New Year programme for this year featuring a choice of locations and activities.

After the over-indulgence of Christmas what better way to see in the New Year, with your friends and loved ones, than escaping to the fresh air of one of Europe’s last great wildernesses to enjoy a host of winter activities.
We offer a range of New Year holidays departing from London Gatwick on Wednesday 27th December, with varying levels of activity included and various types of accommodation.

At Harriniva Wilderness Centre the accommodation is in rooms and the programme is full and action packed and designed for adults or those travelling with teens only as the safari’s are longer.

At Hotel Jeris the programme is for all ages with a choice of room or cabin accommodation for familieswho want to escape from it all. Our arrangements include full board and limited activities.

Hotel Tunturi, in Saariselka is a great location in which to set your own pace, so we have designed the programme with some meals and without activities, however for those looking for a little added excitement there are a wide range of activities to choose from, you just tell us how many and when. Accommodation is in rooms or apartments.

Previous Client Comment
“We have just returned from a holiday to Lapland through yourselves, it was absolutely fantastic!!
We have never heard of Emagine before and have never been on a winter holiday before but this was the best holiday EVER. The organisation of everything was exemplary. The whole holiday was organised with unbelievable efficiency.
Many thanks for providing us with such a great holiday, and well done to all your staff.” Andrea & Brian Speak, Knighton, Leicester

Full departure details can be found in the New Year holidays section of our website

http://www.emagine-travel.co.uk/lapland-holidays/lapland-new-year-holidays.asp

The final Husky Safari’s  and Winter Activity Weeks for this winter will leave from Harriniva on 9th & 16th April 2006
 
Having your own husky team and taking part in a fantastic husky safari experience will for some represent a unique holiday and one that will never be forgotten. Add to that an additional £50 discount off the brochure price for these final two departures of the current season and you will see there has never been a better time to book this once in a lifetime experience

Full details of Emagine husky safari’s at Harriniva can be found at: 
http://www.emagine-travel.co.uk/holidays-in-lapland/lapland-harriniva-husky-safari.asp
 
Also

This seasons last opportunity to enjoy a Winter Activity week offering a combination of winter snow activities including both husky and snowmobile safari's.
 
Full details of Emagine Activity Weeks at Harriniva can be found at: 
http://www.emagine-travel.co.uk/holidays-in-lapland/lapland-harriniva-winter-activity-week.asp