The vast and breathtaking fell area of Saariselka lies 300km north of the Arctic Circle and Kakslauttanen is a mere 80km from the Russian border. This wonderful holiday comes with a wide choice of accommodation and optional snow-based activities plus the cabins have their own sauna – a perfect antidote after a fun day out in the snow. And of course, you may also be treated to spectacular displays of the northern lights.
The Kakslauttanen Hotel is just a 30-minute transfer from Ivalo airport. It has 37 spacious and warm rustic cabins dotted amongst the trees, far enough away from one another to enable you to make the most of your own ‘garden’ area – ideal for building a snowman!
For mid to late December departures onwards, you may wish to opt for a night in an ice room with polar sleeping bag included – there is even a special one for honeymooners! And, for those wanting something completely different, twenty glass igloos provide an amazing experience. Built in the traditional dome shape, the warmly heated igloos allow an uninterrupted view of the skies and make you feel like you are sleeping under the stars. If you are really lucky you can lie in bed at night and marvel at the phenomenal aurora borealis above.
Although the log cabins have their own electric saunas, also within the resort are a couple of more traditional wood/smoke saunas as well as the largest smoke sauna in the world, normally used for private groups. Up to 150 people can relax here and then take the plunge, literally, into the ice pool outside. This is available for private hire.
In the main reception building there is a lovely 3-tiered restaurant with open fire and guests stay here on a set menu half board basis. An inventive à la carte menu is also available at additional cost and the food is of an excellent standard. The basement Piano Bar is warm and welcoming and finally, coffee, cakes and light snacks are available from the self-service counter. Although weather conditions can never be guaranteed, being this far north Kakslauttanen rarely suffers from a lack of sparkling white snow! This is an area perfect for a range of activities, see page 68 for details. Or if you prefer the more relaxing option simply stroll around the extensive grounds, take a few photos and admire the fascinating wooden sculptures scattered amongst the trees.
The ski resort of Saariselka can be reached regularly by the Ski Bus from just outside of the hotel. Around a 20-minute ride, the little town offers several shopping and dining options. The Holiday Club Hotel is open to the public and has a great spa and swimming lagoon, ideal perhaps for an afternoon with the kids.
In the darkest months, December and January, the days may be short, averaging 5 hours, but the lingering sunrise and sunset reflecting off the snow provides an enchanting polar light, great for photography. And by night, the stars and the moonlight provide their own magic and although sightings cannot be guaranteed, the magnificent northern lights could make an appearance, even as late as April.
Apart from highly recommending our standard 3-night packages we also offer very special Christmas and New Year departures. |
Iceland
