ADVENTURE DESTINATION: Extreme Arctic Hotel in Kakslauttanen

By Jorge Jefferds February 1, 2020


Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is located in the Urho Kekkonen National Park, the largest of Finland's national parks, in a region inhabited by the Sami for over a century. Actually, it is situated 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. Anybody might give up the intentions to get there, but it is not difficult. The nearest international airport is in Ivalo, just a 30-minute ride away. Finnair and Norwegian fly regularly from Helsinki.

One of their most admired accommodations is the complex of glass igloos. With capacity for two and four people, you can admire the northern lights and the twinkling of the bright starry sky either with a group of friends, or snuggled up romantically with your loved one. The igloo for two includes a toilet and the option for an extra bed. Saunas and showers are available in separate facilities. The four-person igloos include their own shower besides the toilet.

The kelo-glass igloos combine the comforting warmth of a cozy log chalet with outstanding views from the world-famous glass igloos. They offer a sleeping capacity of six, featuring a private sauna, fireplace, kitchenette, and a bedroom with a glass roof.

For those not afraid of freezing temperatures, a night in one of the Kakslauttanen snow igloos might be an unforgettable experience. Rarely does anyone get the chance to sleep as cozily as they do in an ice-cool igloo that shields them from even the faintest outside noise. Regardless the minus 40 degrees, to which the outside temperature might drop in a single night, the interior temperature might stay between minus three to minus six.
As winter goes by, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort has a great assortment of activities to explore the wonders of this distant untouchable part of Finland. There are two big husky farms right next door to the resort. It will not take you too long to get a feel for steering huskies, and before you know it, you will be sledding through the wilderness drawn by these eager and friendly dogs. There is a range of safari lengths available, from a snappy 15-minute ride to a full-on overnight adventure.

Meanwhile, a reindeer safari can be a relaxing trip into nature, hosted by local reindeer herders. You will be able to chat with them and just to connect with Sami people in an authentic way. The resort offers varying lengths of safari, with the longest including an outdoor lunch. As weather can be sometimes extremely cold and windy, you will be warm and comfortable in one of the resort's enclosed panoramic sleigh, pulled by unique snow tanks. They will take you across the snowy fells while you breathe in the beauty of the landscape surrounding you with a guide answering all your questions and telling you more about what you see. Choose from a two to three-hour ride with a break for traditional refreshments on the way.

An icebreaker cruise called Sampo that departs out of the town of Kemi is one of Finland's most popular travel attractions, and this nautical experience is within easy reach of Kakslauttanen. Over the course of the day-long trip, you will have a lifetime opportunity to take a dip in the icy Bay of Bothnia - in a dry suite, mind you. The period for icebreaker cruises extends from mid-December until the end of April.

For more information about rates, reservations, special events, and more, visit https://www.kakslauttanen.fi/

For flights to Helsinki from the United States, you can also book tickets with American Airlines at www.aa.com. 

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