Santa's Lapland HQ is over commercialised, his Kent one is fully booked. But the big fella can still be seen at Samnaun-Dorf in south-east Switzerland.
Where's Santa? ... catch Father Christmas this DecemberPhotograph: Franka Bruns/AP
Why now?
Santa's Lapland HQ is over commercialised, his Kent one is fully booked. But the big fella can be seen at Samnaun-Dorf in south-east Switzerland during Clau Wau - the Santa Claus World Championship - on Dec 1 (clauwau.com) where 32 Santa teams lock beards in events such as chimney climbing, wooden-reindeer racing and present delivery (by donkey). Places for teams are still available.
Getting there
Ryanair (ryanair.com) flies from Stansted to Friedrichshafen from £10.99 rtn inc tax, followed by a two-and-a-half-hour drive.
Where to stay
Supersized chalet Hotel Post (0041 81 861 9200, wellnesshotelpost.ch) has four stars, great facilities and rooms with half-board from £50pp per night.
Where to eat
Tuck into barley soup, chur meat pie and other regional specialities at Hotel Laret (laret.ch) with a side serving of dramatic views.
