Lapland resorts offer a whole range of winter activities for holidaymakers.
Finland has about 75 ski resorts, most of which are based on small hills near towns and villages. The highest ski slopes are in Lapland, which has become a real Mecca for tourists during the winter season. The "four giants" among Lapland's ski slopes – Levi, Ylläs, Pyhä-Luosto, and Ruka – rise 500-700 meters above sea level, with a total slope length of up to 3 km.
Lapland's winter resorts offer winter sports enthusiasts all types of ski slopes: from the simplest hills for children to challenging "black" slopes for experienced athletes. In addition, those who wish can practice on jumps in snow parks or go on backcountry trips off the groomed trails.
The ski season begins in late October, peaks in February, and continues until early May, when the snow melts. The atmosphere at Finland's ski resorts is conducive to pleasant and relaxing holidays, unlike the crowded, noisy resorts of Central Europe. You won't have to queue at the lifts or be startled when some kamikaze skier overtakes you on the slope.
Levi is the most popular ski resort in Finland. Its main attractions are two snow parks, a variety of slopes and trails for alpine skiing and snowboarding, and a lively tourist village center. The resort is just a few minutes' drive from Kittilä Airport. Every November, Levi hosts the International Ski Federation's World Cup slalom event.
The Pyhä-Luosto resorts attract holidaymakers with their unhurried and relaxed atmosphere. The slopes of the two main fells are ideal for winter sports. Pyhä Fell is famous for its picturesque "wild" slopes, which attract extreme sports enthusiasts from all over Finland every year.
According to many, Ylläs is the most legendary ski resort in Finland. The lifts on these fells have been operating since 1957, and the panorama of Ylläs surrounded by six snow-covered fells will never lose its appeal. The perfect atmosphere for après-ski, isn't it?
Lapland is often called a fairytale snow country. And indeed it is. The dazzling beauty of nature, rows of silver firs, and the tops of snow-covered fells whitening on the horizon – all this creates the unique atmosphere that Finns themselves call "Lapin taika" or "the magic of Lapland." The length of daylight in Lapland varies depending on the season. The spring sun does not set below the horizon until late evening, allowing for stunning photos.
Finding a Finn who has never stood on skis is almost impossible. This is one of the favorite winter sports. Out of Finland's 5.4 million inhabitants, almost a million consider themselves active skiers. Most Finns learn to ski in elementary school. Traditionally, during winter holidays, families with children go to ski resorts.
Snow parks are an integral part of most ski resorts, and Lapland is no exception. Large resorts always have a couple of parks with snow jumps and a special children's park for practicing jumps and tricks. Freestyle enthusiasts will not be disappointed either. Local professionals in snowboarding and alpine skiing in new school and telemark styles will prove it to you.
All winter resorts in Lapland are ideal for holidays with children. While teenagers frolic in snow parks and conquer challenging "black" slopes, experienced parents ski leisurely, enjoying the winter landscapes.
Lapland resorts offer a whole range of winter activities for holidaymakers. The main thing is to spend time actively outdoors with family and friends. You might even make a furry friend! In addition to snowmobile, dog sled, and reindeer sled safaris, you can enjoy cross-country skiing on varied terrain, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and much more. The fairytale nature and crystal-clear northern air will let you feel all the magic of Lapland.
Finland is a country of contrasts, and this is especially noticeable in Lapland. In December, the ski season is in full swing, but at this time the polar night begins, lasting two months. The lack of daylight is compensated by artificial lighting, which does not hinder the enjoyment of skiing.
From February onwards and throughout spring, sunlight floods the expanses of Lapland, turning the picturesque fells into a ski paradise. During this time, resorts host a range of entertainment events for all holidaymakers.
Despite the absence of high mountains, Lapland offers excellent freeride opportunities for extreme sports enthusiasts. The local fells will pleasantly surprise those seeking to ski on fresh powder. You just need to know the spots! Local guides will show you the steepest and wildest slopes. Remember: safety first, and watch out for reindeer!
A few hours outdoors, and hunger sets in. Try the traditional dish of local skiers for lunch – sausages grilled over a campfire. If you see locals sitting by a fire at the base of the slopes, feel free to join them.
All winter resorts in Lapland offer a wide range of services and rental of all necessary equipment. Some resorts strive to maintain an authentic village spirit, while others do the opposite. Levi, for example, is actively developing its tourist infrastructure. The resort center has turned into a real micro-city with restaurants, bars, shops, bowling, SPA, and other amenities.
And to make your winter vacation truly unforgettable, rent a traditional log cottage for a couple of days. There is nothing better than relaxing in a hot sauna and lounging on the sofa by the fireplace after an active day outdoors. This is the real magic of the North.
Based on materials from the portal VisitFinland.com