Journey to the North: A Family Adventure on the Santa Claus Express

Christmas spirit was palpable just days before the holiday, and the streets of Helsinki were transformed into a winter wonderland. The Tuomaan Markkinat in Senate Square was alive with festive cheer, as families gathered to enjoy steaming mugs of hot glögi and savor joulutorttu, those delightful jam-filled pastries. Despite the biting cold of -8C, the excitement was infectious, particularly for my husband and our two young daughters.

The Anticipation of Adventure

Our journey began as we boarded the Santa Claus Express, bound for Rovaniemi, famously known as the official home of Father Christmas. This train is not just a means of transport; it’s a magical experience, especially during the holiday season. As we made our way to the Helsinki central station, the excitement radiated from my daughters, their cheeks rosy from the cold and joy.

• The Helsinki central railway station, a masterpiece of art nouveau architecture, welcomed us with its majestic arches and neoclassical chandeliers.
• Though our train was delayed by nearly 20 minutes, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation, as families shuffled about, bundled in winter gear.
• The Santa Claus Express finally arrived, dispelling my fears of cancellation and bringing a wave of relief.

Onboard Experience

As we boarded, the sight of the green and white double-decker train, adorned with Santa’s jolly face, ignited a childlike wonder in me. The compartments were cozy, featuring bunks and an en suite toilet that cleverly converted into a shower area. With hot water and underfloor heating, it was truly a luxurious way to travel.

One of the train’s highlights is that children under the age of 10 can travel for free if they share a berth with an adult. This made it a perfect fit for our family, as my husband and I comfortably shared a space with our girls.

Dinner and Delights

After settling in, we ventured to the restaurant car, which was bustling with families enjoying the festive atmosphere. The aroma of traditional Finnish cuisine enveloped us, and I couldn’t resist trying the reindeer stew and meatballs—a favorite among travelers.

• The restaurant car was adorned with tinsel and mistletoe, creating a cozy holiday ambiance.
• Children laughed and played while adults shared stories over hearty meals, making the train feel like a festive gathering.

However, a humorous moment arose when my elder daughter innocently inquired about the meat she was enjoying. I found myself in a delicate situation, trying to explain that we were, in fact, enjoying reindeer. Thankfully, she shrugged it off and continued to eat, oblivious to the irony.

A Scenic Journey

As the train rolled through the enchanting Finnish landscape, I was captivated by the beauty outside our window. The twinkling city lights faded into snowy woods, and I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me. The smoothness of the journey allowed my daughters to drift into slumber while my husband and I enjoyed the serene night.

Arrival and Enchantment

We arrived in Rovaniemi just after dawn, and our first destination was the Apukka resort, where we would stay in charming igloo-style cabins. However, the magic truly began at Santa Claus Village, where the anticipation of meeting Santa filled the air.

• Although my daughters had been grumbling in line, the moment they met Santa transformed their demeanor.
• Santa’s authenticity rekindled my own belief in the spirit of Christmas, as he engaged with the girls and gifted them plush reindeer toys.

As we left the grotto, the chill of the air was forgotten amidst the warmth of the moment. I felt overwhelmed with gratitude for the memories we had created together, which truly embodied the spirit of Christmas.

Conclusion

Ultimately, this family adventure on the Santa Claus Express was not merely a journey; it was a beautiful experience filled with laughter, warmth, and holiday magic. If you’re considering a festive getaway, this enchanting journey is worth every moment.

A two-person cabin on the Santa Claus Express from Helsinki to Rovaniemi starts from €239 one way on VR railways (travel time 11¾ hours).

Monisha Rajesh is the author of Moonlight Express: Around the World by Night Train, published by Bloomsbury (£22).

For more detailed insights, you can read the original news article here.