Saariselkä Ski Resort | Rovaniemi

Saariselkä Ski Resort is one of Finland's premier ski destinations, located in the far north of Lapland, near the village of Saariselkä. It offers a wide range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, as well as a chance to experience the unique Arctic environment. The resort is particularly known for its family-friendly atmosphere, scenic beauty, and the opportunity to explore the wilderness of the Urho Kekkonen National Park.

Overview of Saariselkä Ski Resort

• Location: Situated in the Lapland region, in the northern part of Finland, about 260 kilometers above the Arctic Circle, near the village of Saariselkä.
• Altitude: The resort's highest peak reaches approximately 435 meters (1,427 feet) above sea level.
• Season: The ski season typically lasts from November to May, thanks to the resort’s location in the Arctic region, which ensures reliable snow conditions.
• Accessibility: Saariselkä is easily accessible from Ivalo Airport, located about 26 kilometers away, with shuttle services available to the resort.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Ski Slopes and Trails:

• The resort has a variety of downhill slopes, ranging from easy to more challenging runs. There are seven slopes in total, suitable for beginners, intermediate skiers, and advanced skiers.
• The longest slope is around 1.2 kilometers, and the total skiable terrain spans about 9 kilometers.
• The resort is ideal for families and beginners, with a large portion of the slopes designed for novice skiers, as well as children’s ski areas.

Snowboarding:

• Snowboarding is a popular activity at Saariselkä Ski Resort, with facilities and slopes that cater to both beginners and experienced riders.
• The resort has a snowboard park, equipped with ramps, jumps, and rails for those looking for more thrills.

Cross-Country Skiing:

• Saariselkä is also famous for its cross-country skiing trails, which extend throughout the region, particularly in the surrounding Urho Kekkonen National Park. The trails are well-maintained and offer skiers the chance to explore the pristine wilderness.
• There are over 200 kilometers of marked cross-country skiing trails, ranging from beginner to advanced levels.

Winter Activities Beyond Skiing

Husky Safaris:

• Experience the thrill of dog sledding through snowy forests and pristine landscapes, with husky safaris available for visitors. These safaris provide a unique way to explore the Arctic environment.

Snowmobile Safaris:

• Saariselkä offers various snowmobile safaris that allow you to venture into the heart of Lapland’s wilderness. Tours vary from short rides to full-day adventures, and many safaris take you through Urho Kekkonen National Park, giving you the chance to witness some of the most spectacular Arctic landscapes.

Northern Lights Viewing:

• Due to its location within the Aurora Zone, Saariselkä is an excellent place to view the Northern Lights. You can go on guided tours to hunt for the auroras, or simply enjoy the natural light display from the resort itself.

Ice Fishing:

• During the winter months, ice fishing on frozen lakes is a popular pastime. You can join a guided tour to learn the traditional technique of ice fishing, and perhaps even catch a fish to cook over an open fire.

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking:

• For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, snowshoeing or winter hiking provides an opportunity to explore the serene snowy landscapes. Guided tours through Urho Kekkonen National Park are available, where visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna.

Reindeer Safaris:

• A visit to Saariselkä wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a reindeer safari. This is a peaceful and traditional way to explore the Arctic wilderness, often led by local Sami guides.

Accommodation and Facilities

Lodging:

• The area around Saariselkä Ski Resort offers a wide variety of accommodations, from cozy log cabins and luxury hotels to self-catering apartments. Many of the accommodations offer easy access to the slopes, as well as cozy amenities like saunas and fireplaces to warm up after a day of outdoor activities.

Restaurants and Cafes:

• The resort has a range of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants offering traditional Lappish cuisine, including dishes made with reindeer, salmon, and local berries.

Spa and Wellness:

• For relaxation after a day of skiing, some of the hotels in the area offer spa services and wellness treatments, including saunas and hot tubs, which are popular for soothing tired muscles in the cold climate.

Shops:

• Visitors can find several shops selling ski gear, souvenirs, and local crafts, as well as specialized stores offering winter clothing for extreme Arctic conditions.

Urho Kekkonen National Park

• The Urho Kekkonen National Park, located near Saariselkä, is a vast and protected wilderness area, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The park offers winter trails, wildlife viewing, and opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
• The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, elk, lynx, and eagles. It provides a tranquil and remote setting for those who want to experience the unspoiled natural beauty of Lapland.

Best Time to Visit Saariselkä Ski Resort

• Winter (December to April): The resort’s peak season, offering the best snow conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. It is also the ideal time to catch the Northern Lights and enjoy winter safaris.
• Summer (June to August): While the ski resort itself is closed, Saariselkä remains a popular destination for hiking, nature walks, and exploring the midnight sun in the Arctic Circle.

Conclusion

Saariselkä Ski Resort is a fantastic destination for winter sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty and serenity of Lapland. With its wide range of activities, family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to the stunning Urho Kekkonen National Park, the resort offers something for everyone—from skiing and snowboarding to husky safaris and Northern Lights tours. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday, Saariselkä provides an unforgettable Arctic adventure.