Departure Lounge: Pay Santa and the crew a pre-Christmas visit in Lapland

Plus: Christmas markets in Kraków; fancy digs in Donegal; and posh skiing jollies in France's Three Valleys
Departure Lounge: Pay Santa and the crew a pre-Christmas visit in Lapland

Claus: A Significant Santa Employer Y'know In Lapland,

Lapland for less

A day trip to Lapland will thrill little ones while making a more affordable choice for a family adventure. 

Visiting Kittila’s Snow Village, families will meet Santa in his cabin in the woods before trying out a snow slide, learning to drive a miniature skidoo or maybe taking a husky-led sleigh ride. 

Photos in the village’s ice-built bar and chapel are essential mementoes too.

  • 7 December 2024, Dublin to Lapland, one-day trip, €759pp.
  • tui.ie

Le Coucou Meribel
Le Coucou Meribel

Ski’s the limit

Having had the pleasure of staying in Le Coucou Meribel, a chic ski-in ski-out property in France’s Three Valleys, it’s exciting to report that the ultra cool five-star is reopening on December 12. 

Designed to offer an unforgettable experience and superb food for everyone from couples to friends and families, the luxury bolthole has really raised its game for lucky children this season with fun activities, workshops, ski competitions, cooking classes and treats galore. 

Luxe retro styling meets high design across the 55 rooms, including 39 family suites and two private chalets, making Le Coucou a gem for the ultimate winter holiday.

 Mauritius.
Mauritius.

Christmas in paradise

Adding new meaning to the idea of a white Christmas, the powdery white sands of Mauritius seem like a dream location for a seasonal escape. 

Having had the luxury of staying here at Trou aux Biches Beachcomber earlier this year and swimming in these glorious waters, I can highly recommend this stylish resort for a blissed-out end of year reset. 

And with an incredible 25% discount on bookings at the moment it’s a great time to plan a special trip to this lush island. 

Elegant villa-style suites, excellent food, class facilities and a super spa make it a luxurious choice. 

  • Seven-night stay 20-27 December 2024 rates of £4,872 (€5,846) for a Junior Suite B&B basis.
  • beachcomber-hotels.com

A Donegal Suite at Lough Eske.
A Donegal Suite at Lough Eske.

Designer Donegal

Lough Eske Castle hotel in Co Donegal has revealed its new Donegal Suites. All 25 suites showcase local craftsmanship with bespoke Magee 1866 tweed featuring burnt orange and salt and pepper. 

Originating from the firm’s Eske Bunch collection and named after its weaving mill, we look forward to checking in to the waterside property to enjoy the style, mountain views and local hospitality.

Castle Square in the old town of Warsaw.
Castle Square in the old town of Warsaw.

Deal of the week

Always popular, Kraków’s Christmas markets offer great value, a festive atmosphere and traditional gifts galore. 

Think local crafts including wooden Christmas decorations, cosy woollies, ceramics, jewellery and traditional toys. 

Hosted in the historic Rynek Główny, one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, you’ll be cosy staying in the four-star Unicus Palace Hotel. 

  • B&B from €389 pp, departing December 1 from Dublin.
  • sunway.ie

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