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Jeris – Winter Cottage Aurora Escape
Overview
When it comes to winter wonderlands, Mother Nature really got it right with Jeris. You’ll spend seven nights in a winter cottage and can tailor your time with the range of snow-based activities on offer. We’ve included one Northern Light hunts, but at Jeris, it’s often enough to simply step outside your cottage and gaze skywards.
What's included?
- Flights: return flights between London and Kittilä (either direct or via Helsinki depending on departure date). Flight routes are subject to change
- Transfers: return airport transfers
- Accommodation: 7 nights in Hotel Jeris Winter Cottage Type A (upgrade available to larger cabins)
- Meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners
- The following activities and equipment are included: Northern Lights workshop, Aurora snowshoe safari, one-day cross-country ski or snowshoe rental and one entrance to the Arctic Elements Sauna World (order subject to change)
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
- Fully qualified wilderness guides and instructors during activities
- 24/7 assistance from our UK based operations team and in destination support from our local partners
- Aurora alarm until approximately 1 am
This holiday provides you with the chance to tailor a week in Lapland and relax and unwind in your own cosy winter cottage, whilst giving yourself the chance to witness the amazing Aurora Borealis.
Jeris Winter Cottages are situated on the northern shoreline of Lake Jerisjärvi (Järvi means lake in Finnish). The nearest village (Muonio) is 20km away and the nearest town (Kittilä) lies 60km to the south-east. Basically, Jeris is remote, isolated and about as tranquil and serene a place as you could ever hope to encounter. What’s more, the setting is quintessentially Lappish with snowy forests, a large frozen lake and rolling fells providing a Narnia-like backdrop which creates a playground for a range of activities. On a clear, blue-sky day, it’s nothing short of idyllic and on a cloudless night, there is virtually no light pollution to sully your views of the Northern Lights.
We include one dedicated Northern Lights activity on your holiday and so you will enjoy a Northern Lights snowshoe hunt during your stay.
Read moreThe days have been left free for you to choose from the wealth of additional activities available. Options include skiing, ice fishing, reindeer sleigh rides and, of course, a variety of Northern Lights activities. All of the options can be found in the ‘Personalise’ section of the holiday page.
We also include one day of cross-country skiing or snowshoeing equipment hire, ideal for those who would like to enjoy some independent exploration on the well-marked trails.
Of course, you may choose to simply take advantage of the Arctic Elements Sauna World - one entrance is included during your stay.
This is an incredible opportunity for you to tailor-your-own holiday in a remarkable location, whether that means you have an active or relaxed holiday, the choice is entirely yours.
Photography by Antti Pietikainen
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Key facts
| Duration: | 7 nights |
| Pace: | Relaxed |
Dates & Prices
Thank you for your interest in this Aurora Zone experience.
We have found that this holiday is better tailored exactly to your requirements, so please email our Travel Experts at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact us on 01670 785 012 to discuss the various options available to you.
Our Travel Experts have been to all the destinations we feature and love to share their experiences and insight. We want to match you with your perfect trip, so if you have any questions please get in touch; we will be happy to talk through the destinations and itineraries with you.
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Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival and Welcome
You’ll fly to Kittilä Airport where your transfer will take you to Hotel Jeris, approximately 45 minutes away.
You will be given your warm winter clothing for the duration of your stay and dine tonight in the restaurant. You’ll also be given an Aurora alert to aid in you in your quest. We have to stress that the alert is only an aid and is operational until around 1 am only. However, if that alert pings then you might want to throw on some warm clothing and head out to soak in the views of the Arctic sky and hopefully the Northern Lights above. If you want to take your search further, see the ‘Personalise’ tab for information on our dedicated Aurora activities.
Included Meals: Dinner -
DAY 2 - 7
Free Days, Aurora Snowshoe and Northern Lights Workshop
Enjoy breakfast every morning in the restaurant and then the day is yours to explore the beautiful winter surroundings of Jeris. See our ’Personalise’ tab for more information on how you can complete your winter experience.
You could relax in the Arctic Elements Sauna World (one entrance is included) to enjoy the four saunas, each inspired by the elements; earth, fire, water and air. Or you could head outside to discover the magic of the landscape. You cannot fail to notice the myriad of cross-country ski trails which are located all over the area. The sport is something of a national obsession in these parts and so it would really be rude not to let you have a go! A day of equipment hire (either cross-country skis or snowshoes) is included and so if you have any prior experience the hotel will provide you with trail maps so you can explore independently. For novices, we advise the addition of a cross-country skiing lesson before your day of hire (details can be found in the ‘personalise’ section of the holiday page).
Dinner is included every evening and as darkness falls, your location opens up a plethora of Northern Lights activities. We have included one dedicated activity on this holiday, designed to provide both insight and Aurora viewing opportunities.
On snowshoes, you can venture over deeper snow without sinking in the snow. The guide will most likely lead you into the silent forest before finding a clearing where you can gaze skywards. The activity lasts for approximately two to three hours and a hot drink is included.
Also included in the holiday is a Northern Lights workshop. You will join an expert guide for a workshop on the Northern Lights. This one-hour session will provide you with a better understanding of the science and mythology which surround the Aurora Borealis. A hot drink and snack are included.
Whatever you decide to do, during a seven-night stay, there is always a good chance that you will see the Northern Lights. Don’t forget to keep checking the sky from time to time once darkness falls. The Aurora can be very fickle and can sometimes come and go in a matter of minutes while on other occasions it can fill the sky for hour upon hour.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
DAY 8
Departure
Sadly, it’s time to return to the real world. Leaving Jeris can be difficult but leave you must and today you’ll be transferred back to Kittilä Airport for your return flights.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Hotel Jeris and Winter Cottage Type A
Nights: 1-7
Hotel Jeris occupies an enviable location which is 20 kilometres from the nearest village and is located directly on the shores of Lake Jerisjärvi. It is this remote position that makes the hotel an enchanting forest retreat.
The hotel is owned and run by the Pietikäinen family, who also manage the neighbouring sister hotels of Harriniva and Torassieppi. Their hotels are some of our most popular accommodation options in Finland, having received high praise for their knowledgeable guides and exciting activity options.
The hotel consists of a central building and 32 winter cottages in the adjacent forest.
Hotel facilities
- Your meals will be served in the hotel restaurant, which offers a rustic menu of traditional and local Finnish dishes. Meals are served buffet-style with one or two options for each course. Guests can enjoy local delicacies, such as salmon and reindeer. The hearty food here is ideal for setting you up for your adventures in the snow
- There is a small lounge area where guests can relax in the evening and take advantage of the hotel's free Wi-Fi.
- Tea and coffee are available free of charge throughout the day in the hotel restaurant/bar area.
- A significant feature of Hotel Jeris is the wonderful Arctic Elements Lakeside Spa. Renovated for winter 2019/20, the spa is the first of its kind in Finland, with strong eco-credentials, thanks to its use of entirely renewable electricity and geothermal heating generated from the Jerisjärvi lake. There are four saunas here each inspired by an element; earth, fire, water and air and each named after Finnish gods and goddesses. Included is a traditional smoke sauna and plenty of areas for relaxation. Spa area entry is included in the majority of our trips (see what's included for details), but if not you can book entry via the reception for a daily fee. For the Aurora enthusiasts, there is also an upgrade option to the special Northern Lights sauna which offers panoramic views of the night sky. If conditions are favourable, this could be one of the most relaxing ways to see this fantastic light display. For the brave (and healthy) you can complete your sauna experience with a dip in the ice pool - a Finnish tradition.
- A small selection of souvenirs are available for guests to purchase (including postcards and local handicrafts and snacks) in the reception area
Winter Cottages
The Type A Winter Cottages (36 square metres) are generally located around a 10-minute walk from the main hotel building. The cottages are ideal for couples looking for a private retreat.
The cottages can vary slightly in size but all can sleep two to four people. They consist of one spacious room with a sleeping alcove for two people and a pull out sofa bed for two more. All the cottages are privately owned; consequently, the decor and style can vary. Each cottage contains a cosy wood-burning stove, a kitchenette, a television, a shower room and a private sauna.
Cabin guests will receive a small ‘starter pack’ of firewood. Further wood supplies can be purchased locally for approximately 10 euros.
Please note: a limited number of hairdryers are available to borrow from reception.
Please contact our Travel Experts for a quote.
Other options
Jeris Winter Cottage Type B
The Type B Winter Cottages (63 square metres) are situated around a 15-minute walk from the main hotel building and we would recommend these for groups of four or more adults.
The cottage consists of a bedroom for two people and a loft area which can sleep up to four more. The cottages can vary slightly in size but every cottage is equipped with a kitchenette, a wood-burning stove, a shower room, a toilet and a private sauna. All the cottages are privately owned; consequently, the style and decor can vary. Each cottage offers a comfortable and welcoming retreat.
Cabin guests will receive a small ‘starter pack’ of firewood. Further wood supplies can be purchased locally for approximately 10 euros.
Please note: A limited amount of hairdryers are available from reception.
Please contact our Travel Experts for a quote.
Credit Emmi KäHköNen Harriniva Hotel And Safaris
Jeris Winter Cottage Type C
Perfect for groups of five to seven people, the Type C Winter Cottages (70 square metres) are the largest available. These cottages are situated around a 20-minute walk from the main hotel building.
Although the size of the cottage can vary slightly, each cottage has two bedrooms (each bedroom will sleep two people.) The loft of the cottage has a sleeping alcove, which will sleep a further three people. As they are privately owned the cottages vary in decor and style but each has the same facilities. These include a kitchenette, a wood-burning stove, a shower room, a toilet and a private sauna.
Cabin guests will receive a small ‘starter pack’ of firewood. Further wood supplies can be purchased locally for approximately 10 euros.
Please note: A limited amount of hairdryers are available from reception.
Please contact our Travel Experts for a quote.
Jeris and Torassieppi Aurora Huts
Supplements from: £159pp
The unique Aurora Huts at Jeris and Torassieppi offer a rather different overnight experience for guests. These huts have pleasant, cosy décor, with floor to ceiling windows on one wall, allowing you to gaze at the night sky in search of the Northern Lights. The Aurora huts at Torassieppi are located close to the lakeshore, whereas the huts at Jeris are located in the woods. The exact location of your dome will be confirmed upon check-in at your hotel.
Special Nights
Arctic Firefox Lodge
From: £209pp
For an exclusive experience, guests can choose to upgrade to the exceptional Arctic Firefox Lodge at Jeris for a night during their stay. This lakeside retreat offers panoramic views across Lake Jerisjarvi. You can spend your evening unwinding in your very own private sauna, before heading upstairs to your cosy bed, where unobstructed views of the night sky and the Arctic wilderness await. You can snuggle up in bed and gaze at the sky above you and if the Northern Lights appear above you, it really will top off this magical night. Your stay in this very special accommodation includes entry to Arctic Sauna World, bathrobes and slippers.
Prices vary depending on dates and availability. Please speak to our Travel Experts for a quotation.
©Harriniva Hotels and Safaris
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
Tour de Torassieppi
From £133pp
Visit the Arctic Sled Dog Centre and meet the team of dogs that will be taking you on a 15km (approximately) dog sledding adventure.
After a full safety briefing and instructions, you’ll take to the sled and drive your team of dogs through snow-covered forests to see the best of the winter wonderland.
Read moreTwo people will ride per sled and we recommend taking it in turns so you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
Duration: 2.5 hours in total including transfers (approximately)
Minimum group size: 2 people
Suitable for: aged 5 years and over
Available: Tuesday and Saturday at 1:15pm
Other options
Activities
Panorama Safari
From: £97pp
After a full safety briefing and instructions, you will drive your snowmobiles through the Lappish winter landscape (2 people per snowmobile)
This sightseeing tour lasts for around 2 hours (30km) as you move across the snow to reach incredible lookouts.
Read more about this activityYou must be over 18 to drive a snowmobile and hold a valid driving licence.
Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Suitable for: aged 4 years and over (children can ride in a sled pulled by the guide’s snowmobile).
Available: Tuesday at 2pm and Sunday at 10am
Local Culture
From: £161pp
Reindeer herding is intrinsic in Lappish culture. During this activity, you will gain an authentic insight into this tradition at one of the oldest reindeer farms in Finland.
You will learn all about the fascinating history of the family who used to live here and visit the museum on-site.
Read more about this activityYou will also meet the animals as they pull you in a traditional sleigh through the forest (approximately 3km).
Lunch is served in a traditional Lappish Kota around an open fire. You will also see the impressive Winter Village which is situated next to the farm.
Duration: 4-4.5 hours (approximately) including lunch and transfers
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Suitable for: Aged 4 years and over.
Available: Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:40am (Jeris)
Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:20 am (Harriniva)
Reindeer Aurora Experience
From: £107pp
Go in search of the Northern Lights on a traditional reindeer sleigh ride. Wrapped up warm in blankets, you’ll enjoy a peaceful sleigh ride and get to witness the wonderful winter surroundings at night.
Read more about this activityThough the mystical woodland is incredibly enchanting in the dark, make sure you keep your eyes on the sky as you might just be able to see the Northern Lights.
After the sleigh ride, you’ll warm up with a hot drink by the fire.
Duration: 1hr-1.5hrs (approximately) including transfers
Group size: Minimum 2 people; 2 people per sled
Suitable for: Aged 12 years and over
Available: Tuesday and Thursday at 8:40 pm
Aurora Adventure by Snowmobiles
From: £120pp
For an adventurous way to search for the Northern Lights, hop onto a snowmobile and drive through the Arctic night (2 people per snowmobile).
This form of transport takes you to the best location for spotting the Aurora and you will also enjoy warm drinks as you search the sky.
Read more about this activityYou must over 18 to drive a snowmobile and hold a valid driving licence.
Duration: 20km (approx. 2.5 - 3 hours)
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 9 pm
Skiing in Wonderland
From: £54pp
After a lesson on cross-country skiing, you will be guided on a skiing trip through the winter wonderland surroundings.
Read more about this activityNot only is this a great form of exercise and popular pastime, but it’s also a great way to up close to the nature around you.
Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Suitable for: Aged 4 years and over
Available: Tuesday and Friday at 10 am
Snowshoes Trip to National Park
From: £78pp
This tour starts with a short transfer to the Pallas fell area, the largest fell area in western Lapland. It is renowned for its breath-taking scenery and you’ll be in and amongst it as you strap on your snowshoes and hike around.
Read more about this activitySnowshoes allow you to walk across the deep snow with ease, so you can spend your time admiring the incredible views. Lunch is included and will be enjoyed back at the hotel.
Duration: 4 hours in total (approximately) including transfers and lunch
Minimum group size: 2 people
Available: Tuesday at 10 am
Ice Fishing
From: £33pp
See who can get the catch of the day during ice fishing. You’ll be provided with all the equipment as well as an introduction to winter fishing. This trip also includes a hot drink and if you catch a fish, the kitchen will prepare it for you.
Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
Minimum group size: 2 adults
Available: Thursday at 10 am
©Juho Kuva Visit Finland
Snow Train
From: £66pp
Step inside the cosy Snow Train carriage for an Aurora hunt into the wilderness.
Pulled along by your expert guide on a snowmobile, the Snow Train has been cunningly designed with an all-Perspex exterior to give you constant views of the night sky. As you journey further into the darkness, keep your eye out for a potential display.
Read more about this activityYou’ll also stop in a prime location to enjoy hot drinks and continue your search. Your location will be chosen based on the local weather and Aurora forecast for the evening, giving you the best possible chance of ticking the Northern Lights off your bucket list.
Duration: 2 hours
Minimum group size: 2 people
Available: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 9pm
Special Nights
Arctic Firefox Lodge
From: £209pp
For an exclusive experience, guests can choose to upgrade to the exceptional Arctic Firefox Lodge at Jeris for a night during their stay. This lakeside retreat offers panoramic views across Lake Jerisjarvi. You can spend your evening unwinding in your very own private sauna, before heading upstairs to your cosy bed, where unobstructed views of the night sky and the Arctic wilderness await. You can snuggle up in bed and gaze at the sky above you and if the Northern Lights appear above you, it really will top off this magical night. Your stay in this very special accommodation includes entry to Arctic Sauna World, bathrobes and slippers.
Prices vary depending on dates and availability. Please speak to our Travel Experts for a quotation.
©Harriniva Hotels and Safaris
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
Great experience
10 March 2019
by Andrew & Marilyn Barnes
We were extremely happy with our choice of holiday and with our own itineraries. The food and cottage accommodation was excellent and beyond our expectations. Dog sledding - Great experience. The surroundings, weather, guides and dogs themselves all contributed to make it a truly memorable experience.
Jeris - Winter Cottage Aurora Escape
24 February 2019
by Georgina Cook & Alexander Bird
We found everyone at the hotel very friendly and helpful
Jeris - Winter Cottage Aurora Escape
17 February 2019
by Amber & Adam Parsons-Boler
Sledging using the free sledges and husky sledging were great!
Everything was amazing, the food was delicious every day, people very friendly
03 February 2019
by Meghann Gibbons & Luke Barwick
An amazing holiday, we will definitely use you again. It’s the 1st cold holiday I have ever done & loved every second & prefer to hot holidays. The husky safari was the best activity, just wished we had booked a longer 1 but definitely do that next time
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