Finland : Iso-Syote - Log Cabin Hideaway

This Finnish ski resort is situated on and around the gently rolling fells with panoramic views in every direction, over beautiful lakes, forests and wilderness areas, all under a blanket of brilliant white snow. It is here more than anywhere in Finland, that treetops bend and bow under the weight of the snow, transforming them into snow-cloaked sentinels, silently guarding their forest. The views here are spectacular, especially as they can be blessed with some amazing sunsets. Being Finland’s snowiest region with more than 2m annually means the blanket stays put through until the end of April.

Husky Sledging, snowmobiling, reindeer safaris, ice fishing, snow shoeing, cross-country skiing and ice rally driving are some of the optional excursions. There is even a chance to visit the Ranua Wildlife Park and if you are travelling with children Rovaniemi Santa Village on a day trip.

Iso-Syote has direct access to fifteen pistes with many of the slopes illuminated at night. Although the terrain is best suited to beginners and intermediate skiers with straight smooth runs from top to bottom, more advanced skiers will enjoy the opportunities in the powder fields through the trees. The constant subzero temperatures that are the norm through the winter here, stop the snow from melting and keep it light and powdery for weeks, sometimes months on end, which is good news for snowboard fans.

Being centrally located between three airports - Rovaniemi (2 hours transfer time); Oulu (1.5 hours) and Kuusamo (1 hour), means a greater choice of flights connecting through Helsinki.