Activity Holidays in Saariselkä

Not your usual accommodation in Saariselkä

All our accommodations are run by local families and businesses, so you know you’re supporting the local community when you travel with us. Wherever you stay you’ll have great views of the northern lights and be able to enjoy a wide range of fun activities. Here are the accommodations Saariselkä has to offer

• Aurora Cabins – The Aurora Cabins are a magical way to experience the wintry star-filled sky and the Northern Lights. The igloo-like room has a heated glass-roof for perfect views of the northern sky. These cabins can sleep up to 4 people, so are ideal for families.
  
• Wilderness rooms – Not your typical hotel room, they are single storey, wooden panelled rooms with views out to the snowy landscape, cosy and stylish, suitable for 2 to 4 people.Some have their own private sauna.
  
• Riverside log cabins – Log cabins and riverside log cabins are stunning detached log houses with a living room, kitchen and private sauna, suitable for up to 5 or 6 people.
  

What the Brochures Don’t Tell You

When to travel
Saariselka’s winter season runs from November 24th to April. Snow usually arrives in early November, with enough coverage for winter activities by month’s end. Festive family holidays with Santa visits are available throughout winter, though most Santa encounters end in December. The entire season is ideal for family trips, offering great outdoor activities and a popular toboggan run. Northern Lights viewing peaks in January, February, and March due to clearer skies.

How long should I stay?
A 3 to 7-night stay in Saariselkä is recommended. This allows time to experience the Arctic wilderness, enjoy various winter activities, and increase chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Longer stays accommodate activities like husky sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer encounters, snow shoeing, arctic skiing, and traditional Finnish saunas.

How to get there
Saariselkä is easily accessible via Ivalo Airport, located 25 km south. Daily winter flights from the UK connect through Helsinki with Finnair, while British Airways offers some direct flights in December and January.

Average temperatures
Saariselka winters feature abundant snow, short days, and very low temperatures, creating an ideal backdrop for Aurora viewing. Temperatures typically range from -5°C to -15°C from November to March, occasionally dropping below -20°C in January and February. Despite the cold, proper clothing ensures comfortable outdoor activities. April brings the first signs of spring and milder temperatures.

Activities beyond the ordinary

• Meet Santa Claus – You can meet Father Christmas himself in his woodland cottage for an extra special, personal Christmas experience.
  
• Sami Reindeer Farm – See and meet Santa’s reindeer on a visit to a reindeer farm. You can also meet the huskies and enjoy a husky-pulled sleigh ride.
  
• Snowmobiling – One of the most exhilarating activities you can do in Saariselka. Glide across the snow on one of our amazing snowmobiles.
  
• Snowshoeing – Slip on your snowshoes and trek through the thick snowy terrain. A fun and unique way of getting around.
  
• Arctic skiing – Saariselka is a great place for skiing, with several ski slopes for you to choose from.
  
• Ice fishing – Your expert guide will show you how to cut a hole in the ice and fish in the traditional Sami way.