Lapland Hotels: A Traveler’s Guide
If you’re planning a journey to the mystic Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the best hotels in Lapland, taking you from cozy family-owned establishments to lavish luxury resorts. We’ll make your hotel selection as enchanting as the auroras that dance in the polar skies.
The Magic of Lapland
Before we dive into our hotel recommendations, let’s pause for a moment to appreciate the beauty of Lapland. This region, home to the indigenous Sámi people, is a spectacle of ethereal light shows, frozen landscapes, and vast wilderness. It’s where you can witness the magical Northern Lights, ride a husky sled, meet reindeer, and even visit Santa Claus himself. Now that you’re equally enchanted by the promise of Lapland, let’s start exploring its delightful accommodations.
Luxury Hotels
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Let’s kick off with one of Lapland’s most iconic establishments. Located in Saariselkä, the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers one-of-a-kind experiences with its glass igloos. These are perfect for star-gazing and watching the Northern Lights while nestled comfortably in your warm bed. Apart from the glass igloos, the resort also offers log cabins for a more traditional feel.
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
Perched on a hillside in Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel offers a contemporary take on traditional Nordic cabin design. Each ‘nest’ offers panoramic views of the landscape and Northern Lights, a delightful sight to wake up to. The hotel is also a short drive away from Santa Claus Village, making it a hit among younger travelers.
Mid-range Hotels
Scandic Rovaniemi City
Centrally located in Rovaniemi, Scandic Rovaniemi City offers modern, well-equipped rooms and a hearty Nordic breakfast to start your day. The Arktikum Science Museum and the Ounasvaara Ski Resort are just a stone’s throw away, providing an ideal base for city explorers and adventure seekers alike.
Lapland Hotel Akashotelli
Based in Akaslompolo, the Lapland Hotel Akashotelli offers various accommodation types, from comfortable hotel rooms to spacious apartments and cabins. It’s conveniently located near Ylläs Ski Resort, making it a preferred choice for winter sports enthusiasts.
Value for Money Options
Guesthouse Borealis
If you’re traveling on a budget, Guesthouse Borealis in Rovaniemi offers cozy rooms, friendly service, and a homely atmosphere. Its proximity to the city center, train station, and local attractions makes it a popular choice among budget travelers.
Lapland Hotel Ounasvaara Chalets
For an affordable yet authentic Lappish experience, consider staying at the Ounasvaara Chalets. These well-equipped wooden cabins offer a rustic experience with modern amenities. Moreover, it’s located near the Ounasvaara Ski Resort, making it ideal for those who love outdoor activities.
Traveling in Lapland: Additional Tips
While this guide focuses primarily on hotels, remember that the magic of Lapland extends beyond your accommodations. Here are some tips to enhance your Lapland experience.
Timing Your Visit
The best time to visit Lapland depends on the experiences you’re seeking. Winter, between December and April, is perfect for witnessing the Northern Lights, enjoying winter sports, and experiencing the Polar Night, a period when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon. The summer months, from June to August, are characterized by the Midnight Sun, a unique phenomenon where the sun doesn’t set. This time is ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and experiencing the vibrant local culture during the numerous summer festivals.
Experiences Not to Miss
No trip to Lapland is complete without a visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. This is a delightful experience, especially if you’re traveling with children. Other must-do experiences include husky and reindeer sledding, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and, of course, chasing the Northern Lights.
Food and Drink
Don’t miss out on tasting the unique flavors of Lapland. Reindeer meat, cloudberries, Finnish cheese, and rye bread are some of the local specialties. Be sure to also try a traditional Finnish sauna followed by a shot of Salmiakki Koskenkorva, a licorice-flavored spirit that’s a favorite in these parts.
Respect Local Culture and Environment
Lapland is the home of the Sámi people, who have a rich and vibrant culture. When visiting, respect their traditions and the environment. Remember that Lapland’s stunning natural beauty relies on the principles of sustainability and respect for nature.
In Lapland, every hotel offers a unique perspective of this ethereal region, whether you’re nestled in a glass igloo beneath the shimmering Northern Lights or waking up to the sounds of nature in a rustic cabin. Your choice of accommodation can be as big a part of your adventure as the snow-swept wilderness that awaits outside. We hope this guide assists you in finding a hotel that aligns with your expectations and budget, making your stay in Lapland a dream come true.