Arctic resorts don’t get bigger than this. As such, luxury is not of the highest level, but still decent quality. While it’s not a remote escape amid nature, consider it a tempting choice for first-timers who wish to stay in a more secure and developed location.
Stay at Kakslauttanen
What was born from humble beginnings, now brags the planet’s largest Arctic escape. Since its initial opening as a cafe back in 1973, two village complexes have expanded and grown. Nowadays within this illustrious wintry oasis, Christmas dreams really do come true.Roam a quaint town of chalets and igloos, admiring the frosty scenes Finland affords. When the cold gets too much, retreat to your cosy cabin, or to the impressive sauna able to host 100 bathers at a time. Trekkers have the upland fells of Urho Kekkonem to traverse. Thrill seekers board sleek snowmobiles for a ride. Reindeer safaris beneath the Northern Lights, too, make for magical evenings, before memorable nights in glass igloos supply the final cherry.
Location
Open year-round, barring May, the hotel spreads across two sites on either side of the northbound Lapland highway towards the North Cape. Only a 30-minute drive, Ivalo Airport is the most common entry point for international visitors. Urho Kekkonen National Park and the resort town of Saariselkä can also be found closeby.
Rooms
From large traditional log cabins with fireplace, sauna and kitchenette, to famed glass igloo clusters, abodes here are well-varied in luxury and style. For the most comfort, opt for a kelo-glass igloo, a hybrid category of stay combining log chalet AND glass igloo.
Who is it for
This is a real-life winter wonderland for couples and families alike. Both have plenty of entertainment in the form of on-site husky and reindeer farms and horse stables. Santa’s iconic home is also easy to reach.
Facilities & activities
A whopping five restaurants are contained within the resort, three of which are reserved for private events. A glass igloo bar also features in the West Village. Leisure amenities comprise spa and massage services, alongside the world’s biggest smoke sauna. Activities range from Aurora expeditions, horseback riding, skiing and quad-biking.
Kakslauttanen Photo Gallery
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