Lapland is Europe’s last true wilderness. Covering over 100,000 square kilometres, home to just 177,000 people and one of the least densely populated areas on the continent; Lapland is a truly magical destination. Lapland is one of the most rewarding destinations you could ever visit, you’ll create some truly unforgettable, lifelong memories. It is also a challenging place to visit, particularly during the winter months when temperatures drop below freezing and the sun rarely appears over the horizon. Nevertheless, winter in Lapland is the most beautiful place we’ve ever been. We want to help you navigate this destination by giving you the low-down on where to stay in Lapland.
Witness the ethereal Northern Lights, visit Santa Claus in his own home, glide along the snow on husky or reindeer-drawn sleighs. Whatever you plan to do in Lapland, you need to be on the lookout for resorts that can make your stay in this environment not just comfortable but truly magical. All our holiday accommodations combine authenticity with luxury, so booking with us is one way to make that search easier.
So, where is the best place to stay in Lapland? We’ve outlined here the best places to stay in the region, based on your plans and what activities you’d like to do whilst in this incredible part of the world.
Post Updated: 27/8/2024
For True Untouched Nature – Saariselkä
For adventurers who want to get off the beaten track, away from the crowds and built-up cities, then Saariselka is the perfect choice for you. Let go og the rush of everyday life and experience the unfiltered beauty of Lapland.
Saariselka is located partially in the Urho Kekkonen National Park, one of Finland’s most beautiful and pristine parks, perfect for adventuring and exploring. Saariselka is beautiful all year round too, so whenever you choose to visit it is a great choice.
In the winter it is the perfect place to take the family, with easy access to unforgettable adventures like husky safaris, snowmobile rides, ice-fishing and snowshoe hiking. The wild nature of Saariselka also makes it perfect for a romantic getaway, with plenty of secluded, glass-roofed cabins to cosy up in at the end of a long day exploring the snow-covered pine forests and beautiful fells.
For the Skiing Enthusiasts – Levi
While Lapland may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Skiing holidays, it does actually boast some decent slopes for beginners and experienced skiers. What it lacks in huge mountains, it makes up for in beautiful views and cross-country skiing. There are slopes all over Lapland for you to try, but for the best of the best, Levi is the destination of choice.
Head over to Levi to find wonderfully unique fells that rise out of untouched pine forests, providing great skiing for those looking for something a little different. Throw in a glass-roofed cabin accommodation for watching the Northern Lights as you recover from a long day of gliding over the slopes. What could be more iconic?
As well as downhill skiing, Lapland has some of the very best cross-country skiing you could possibly find. Gliding out into the pristine wilderness on your skis to discover frozen rivers and magical fells with endless views is a skiing experience you’re sure to remember.
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For a Family Adventure – Rovaniemi
Family holidays in Lapland are magical for a number of reasons. The beauty of the Northern Lights, the invigorating outdoor activities, and of course, the home of Father Christmas can all be found in this northern region of Finland, so where is the best place to stay in Lapland for a family adventure?
While everywhere in Lapland is great for families, with amazing activities and Christmas fun, Rovaniemi takes the crown as the best destination. As the official home of Father Christmas, Rovaniemi provides an uncompromisingly authentic family Christmas adventure. As NITGB’s largest destination it is also the most geared towards welcoming younger families. You will still find beautiful snowscapes, glass-roofed cabins giving you views of the Northern Lights, and Lapland day excursions like husky rides and snowmobiling.
So, with a full Santa’s Village for the kids to enjoy, Rovaniemi is a wonderful place to stay in Lapland for those searching for a family-orientated holiday.
For the Northern Lights – Nellim
If catching a glimpse of the elusive Aurora Borealis is at the top of your bucket list, then Nellim should be your go-to destination in Lapland. Nestled in the far north, this remote village offers some of the best Northern Lights viewing opportunities you could hope for.
Picture yourself cozied up in a glass-roofed Aurora Bubble, the inky black sky stretching endlessly above you. Suddenly, a green ribbon of light dances across the heavens, leaving you breathless. That’s the magic of Nellim.
What makes Nellim so special? Its location is key. Situated far from any light pollution and directly under the Aurora oval, Nellim boasts over 200 potential Aurora viewing nights per year. Plus, the surrounding wilderness offers countless perfect spots for Aurora hunting – from frozen Lake Inari to secluded forest clearings. As our northernmost destination, we can’t think of anywhere better to go than Nellim.
But it’s not just about location. In Nellim, the Northern Lights become part of your entire experience. Join expert-guided Aurora tours, learn to photograph this natural wonder, or simply gaze at the sky from your warm accommodation. Here, the Northern Lights aren’t just a possibility – they’re an integral part of your unforgettable Lapland adventure.
At Not In The Guidebooks, we aim to provide you with truly unique holidays and tours that get you to the real heart of a destination. It’s our belief that you shouldn’t simply visit a place, you should experience the essential activities, the hidden local gems, the authentic cuisine and culture and above all, interact with the local people.
26/05/2022 
