Snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and Arctic adventures
A cosy cabin, traditional saunas and winter comfort
A small group retreat designed for shared adventures
Escape the build-up to Christmas and join us in the heart of Finnish Lapland for a six-night yoga retreat in Finland, guided by experienced teacher Jean Hall. Here, yoga, Arctic adventures and Nordic wellness traditions come together in a striking winter landscape of snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and wide, open skies.
This is a fully immersive winter experience in Lapland, where everything has been thoughtfully included so you can simply arrive and enjoy it, whether it’s your first time or something you’ve always wanted to try. From husky sledding and snowshoeing to sauna, icy dips, and yoga woven throughout the week, each day offers a balance of movement, warmth and space to reset. With cosy cabin living and the chance to see the Northern Lights, this Lapland retreat offers a rare opportunity to pause and recharge before the festive season begins.
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Retreat details
Trip dates: 12-18 December 2026
Trip costs: £2,395.00–£2,995.00Price range: £2,395.00 through £2,995.00
Step away from the build-up to Christmas and into the stillness of Finnish Lapland on this six-night winter retreat. In the depths of early winter, the landscape takes on a quiet, almost otherworldly feel, with snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and vast Arctic skies setting the scene for a week that combines movement, nature and deep rest.
A Winter Escape Before Christmas
Step away from the build-up to Christmas and into the stillness of Finnish Lapland on this six-night winter retreat. In the depths of early winter, the landscape takes on a quiet, almost otherworldly feel, with snow-covered forests, frozen lakes and vast Arctic skies setting the scene for a week that combines movement, nature and deep rest.
In December, daylight is brief and beautifully soft. For a few hours each day, the landscape glows in muted blues and pinks before fading into long Arctic nights, where stars and the Northern Lights take over.
This retreat offers a chance to pause before the busiest time of year, to recharge your energy and return home feeling clear, grounded and ready for the season ahead. Days unfold between time outdoors in the snow and moments of warmth and comfort indoors, creating a natural balance between adventure and restoration.
Exploring Finnish Lapland
Yoga is woven throughout the week, with sessions designed to support the body alongside the activities. Some mornings begin with a gentle practice to ease you into the day, while on other days we head straight out into the Arctic landscape for our adventures. After breakfast, we explore with experienced local guides, whether snowshoeing through quiet forests, moving across frozen terrain, or simply taking in the stillness of this unique environment. Everything is designed to be accessible, with no prior experience needed.
One of the highlights of the week is a visit to a small, family-run husky farm. After meeting the dogs, you’ll set off on a self-driven sled journey through the snowy wilderness, surrounded by silence and wide-open space.
Saunas & Slow Moments
You will also experience Finnish sauna culture, an essential part of life in the north. On the edge of a frozen lake, you’ll move between the deep heat of a traditional wood-fired sauna and the sharp, refreshing cold of an ice dip, followed by fires, warm drinks and time to relax.
There is space within the week to choose your own pace. You may opt for additional activities such as skiing or snowmobiling, or stay close to the cabin, enjoying the sauna, resting by the fire or stepping out for a quiet walk in the snow.
A Memorable Finale
On our final full day, we head out on traditional forest skis to reach a remote lodge. Here we gather for another sauna and cold-water dip, followed by yoga and a traditional meal prepared by our local hosts.
Throughout the week, yoga with Jean is thoughtfully integrated alongside time in nature and moments of quiet reflection. This retreat offers a chance to reset before Christmas, to fill your own cup, and to experience the calm, beauty and quiet energy of winter in the far north.
This retreat sits within our Venture Traveller category and is designed for people who enjoy combining yoga with winter adventure. If you love snowy landscapes, being outdoors and trying new experiences, this retreat is likely to be a great fit.
Each day includes time outside, whether snowshoeing through peaceful forests, learning to use traditional forest skis, enjoying a husky sledding adventure or simply embracing the quiet beauty of Finnish Lapland. No previous experience is needed, but you should enjoy being active outdoors and be comfortable spending time in cold winter conditions.
Yoga with Jean Hall is woven naturally throughout the week, helping you prepare for the day’s activities and unwind afterwards. The balance of movement, nature, sauna and rest makes this an ideal retreat if you’re looking to recharge before Christmas.
Temperatures in December are well below freezing, so you’ll need warm winter clothing and sturdy waterproof boots. Thermal overalls are provided for the husky sledding experience. If you choose to add skiing or snowboarding during your free time, you’ll need your own ski clothing, although skis, snowboards and boots can be hired locally.
If you’re looking for a retreat that combines yoga with Arctic landscapes, winter adventure, traditional Finnish saunas and cosy evenings by the fire, this could be exactly what you’re looking for.
Yoga on our retreats is open to everyone, whether it’s your first class or something you’ve practised for years. Our groups are always a mix, and there’s no pressure to keep up or perform. You’re encouraged to move in a way that feels right for you. Sessions are thoughtfully designed to be grounded and accessible, often becoming a natural way to stretch, slow down, and reconnect after a day outdoors. We work with experienced teachers who know how to support beginners while also helping more regular practitioners deepen their practice, creating a space where people often surprise themselves in the best way.
Your retreat will be guided by Jean Hall, who has been teaching for over 25 years. She is an author, mentor, and senior teacher with Yoga Alliance Professionals, and is known for her thoughtful, grounded approach.
Yoga sessions take place in the spacious living area of our retreat cabin, offering a comfortable and relaxed setting to practise, unwind, and reconnect.
Morning sessions gently awaken the body and set the tone for the day ahead, with a strong yet soulful slow flow, supported by mindful breathing and meditation. In the evenings, the pace softens, with calming sessions that combine gentle movement and restorative yoga to help the body unwind and prepare for a restful night.
Our yoga schedule is designed to complement the activities, with at least one session each day and often two.
Mornings begin quietly, with tea or coffee available from around 7am as the cabin slowly comes to life. Most days start with a yoga session around 8am to gently wake the body, followed by a generous breakfast shared around the table by the fire, with plenty of choice to set you up for the day ahead.
With limited daylight in December, we head out a little earlier to make the most of the day. By mid-morning, we’re ready and on our way into the Arctic landscape for our daily adventure. With our own vehicles, we travel comfortably to each experience, whether that’s visiting the husky farm, heading to the lake for sauna and an ice hole dip, or meeting our Finnish guides at the cabin for a day of snowshoeing. On longer days, we’ll take a packed lunch with us, while on others we return to the cabin for a relaxed, home-cooked meal.
We usually return in the early afternoon, as the light begins to fade, when it’s time to rest and warm up. You might unwind in the sauna, curl up by the fire, or take some quiet time to yourself.
In the early evening, we gather again for a slower yoga session, typically around 5:30pm, to help the body recover and the mind settle after time spent outdoors. Dinner follows around 7:30pm, with three courses and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Your retreat host will reflect on the day and talk you through what’s to come.
Evenings are unhurried. Some people stay up chatting, others head to bed early, perhaps after a final sauna. And throughout the night, we keep watch for the Northern Lights, so if they appear, you won’t miss them.
Each day follows a similar rhythm, balancing time outdoors with space to rest, warm up, and recharge.
What’s Included
6 nights’ accommodation
Daily yoga and meditation with Jean Hall (approximately 2–3 hours per day)
Breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout the retreat
Return group transfers between Kittilä Airport and the retreat at set times
Guided snowshoeing experience
Self-driven husky sledding experience
Guided forest skiing experience
Two traditional Finnish sauna and ice-dip experiences
Experienced local guides throughout the included activities
Winter clothing for the husky sledding experience
What’s Not Included
Return flights to Kittilä Airport (KTT)
Optional snowmobiling excursion (€165 per person)
Ski passes (approximately €55 per day)
Ski and snowboard hire
Please bring your own yoga mat
We have space for just 12 guests available for this retreat in four private rooms and four twin rooms. Our accommodation is rated in our comfort category.
Our retreat home is a spacious Finnish cabin on the outskirts of Äkäslompolo, perfectly positioned for exploring the magic of Lapland. With large windows framing breathtaking views of the surrounding fells, it’s a peaceful and welcoming place to be after days filled with adventure.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy sitting area and a slate stone fireplace, creating the perfect spot to warm up and unwind. The cabin also features its own sauna, available for you to use anytime. There is wifi throughout the cabin and a washing machine/dryer in case you need to do laundry during your stay.
The bedrooms are simply furnished with two comfortable single beds and an ensuite bathroom, embracing the no-fuss Finnish style.
Our open-plan living space between the sitting and dining areas transforms into our yoga space, where we’ll stretch and settle into the rhythm of the Arctic.
Meals are an important part of the retreat, bringing everyone together after days spent exploring the Arctic landscape. Throughout the week, our chef Nuria Font prepares wholesome, home-cooked meals using fresh, seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce wherever possible.
Expect hearty breakfasts to fuel the day’s adventures, warming lunches and delicious evening meals showcasing the flavours of Finnish Lapland. Menus include local fish, reindeer and other regional specialities, with vegetarian options available at every meal.
We can cater for most dietary requirements with advance notice, so please let us know when you book.
This is an alcohol free retreat.
You will need to arrive in Kittilä on Saturday 12 December at 16.25 on Finnair flight AY583 and depart from Kittilä on Friday 18th December at 13.40 on Finnair flight AY574.
Travel to Finland from UKÂ
You can fly directly to Helsinki with BA, Finnair, Ryanair and Easyjet in 3 hours. We recommend the Finnair option as you can connect all the way through to Kittilä. You can do the whole journey in one day, although adding a day in Helsinki is also a great option.
Travel to Finland from US
You can fly Direct to Helsinki from JFK with Finnair in 9-10 hours. We recommend the Finnair option as you can connect all the way through to Kittilä. You can do the whole journey in one go (with overnight flights) although adding a day in Helsinki is also a great option.
Transfers
Transfers are included in your retreat if you travel on the flights listed above. Travel time is around 45 minutes, depending on the weather! If you choose to travel on different flights you will need to organise a taxi transfer which will cost around 150 Euro one way.
Are flights included?
International flights are not included in the retreat price.
Please book your return flights to Kittilä Airport (KTT). We provide recommended flight options on the Travel page and are happy to advise before you book.
What’s the group size and what kind of people are going?
This retreat is limited to 12 guests, creating a small and friendly group experience.
Our retreats attract a mix of solo travellers, friends and couples, typically aged between 40 and 60, although we also welcome guests in their 30s and 70s. They’re solo-friendly by design and attract people who enjoy wellbeing, nature and exploring places beyond the usual tourist trail.
Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Please check the latest entry requirements before travelling.
Do I need experience of snowshoeing or forest skiing?
No. Everything is designed for beginners, and your experienced local guides will provide all the equipment and instruction you need. The emphasis is on enjoying the Arctic landscape rather than covering long distances or developing technical skills.
Will I see the Northern Lights?
December is one of the best times of year to visit Finnish Lapland, and there is a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights if conditions are favourable. As this is a natural phenomenon, sightings can never be guaranteed, but we’ll be staying well away from city lights, giving ourselves the best possible opportunity.
Can I book on my own?
Absolutely. Many of our guests travel solo, and Finnish Lapland is a wonderful destination to experience as part of a small group. Sharing the journey makes the adventures and cosy evenings around the fire even more memorable.
Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
Our accommodation can cater for most dietary requirements with advance notice. Please include any requests on your booking form and we’ll confirm them with our local partners before you travel.
Who is hosting this trip?
Your yoga teacher is Jean Hall, whose warm and welcoming teaching style complements the rhythm of the retreat beautifully.
Your retreat will be hosted by a Reclaim Yourself retreat leader, alongside experienced local guides who accompany us throughout our Arctic adventures. This retreat has been carefully designed with our trusted long-term partners in Finnish Lapland, whose local knowledge ensures a seamless and memorable experience.
1
Your property is locally owned and operated
Yes
Or your property is operated in partnership with a local owner
2
You employ local staff with good pay and working conditions in compliance with all local laws and regulations
Yes
3
Staff are offered employee benefits and professional development opportunities
Yes
4
You partner with and support local suppliers for excursions, activities, and products
Yes
5
Your chosen excursion suppliers follow environmental guidelines. And, on any trips involving wildlife, suppliers keep their distance and never disturb the animals.
Yes
6
You give preference to suppliers with ownership from diverse or underrepresented populations
Some
7
Your property runs on renewable energy
No
8
Your property uses a sustainable water supply
Yes
9
There is a comprehensive waste management system
Yes
10
There is limited use of single use plastic
Yes
11
Sustainable, local food sources are available
Yes
12
Biodegradable products are used
Some
13
You measure your property’s environmental impact and operate in compliance with all local laws and regulations
Yes
14
You are actively involved in conservation
No
15
The location is not over touristed/we are visiting out of high season
Some
16
There are slow travel/public transport options available to reach you location
No
17
You have your own sustainability strategy/targets for your property
Some
18
Your property has its own certifications such as ISO 14001, Green Key, Green Building Certifications, BCorp certification or other demonstrable policies*
