What are the Top Attractions in Saariselkä?
Welcome to Saariselkä, a gem nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland. This enchanting destination offers a plethora of activities and sights that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a serene escape, Saariselkä has something for everyone. In this blog post, we will explore the top attractions in Saariselkä, providing you with a comprehensive travel guide to make your visit unforgettable.
Exploring Urho Kekkonen National Park
Urho Kekkonen National Park, established in 1983, is Finland’s second-largest national park and a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park’s northern region is characterized by its rugged wilderness, featuring numerous fells that rise over 500 meters. This vast expanse of untouched nature offers a variety of trails suitable for both day hikes and longer treks.
One of the park’s highlights is the Luirojärvi Lake, a popular destination for multi-day hikes. The Paratiisikuru Gorge and Sokosti Fell are also must-visit spots, offering breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility. For those interested in shorter excursions, the park provides well-marked nature trails and themed routes starting from Saariselkä and Kiilopää.
In addition to hiking, the park is a fantastic location for winter activities. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular ways to explore the snowy landscapes. The park’s dense network of wilderness huts and shelters ensures that adventurers have plenty of options for rest and respite during their journeys.
Saariselkä Ski & Sport Resort: A Winter Wonderland
Saariselkä Ski & Sport Resort is a winter sports paradise, offering a wide range of activities for all skill levels. The resort boasts well-groomed slopes for downhill skiing and snowboarding, with options suitable for beginners and advanced skiers alike. The resort’s ski school provides lessons for those new to the sport, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, Saariselkä offers over 200 kilometers of trails, many of which are illuminated for night skiing. The trails wind through picturesque forests and open fells, providing a serene and scenic experience. Snowshoeing is another popular activity, allowing visitors to explore the winter landscape at a leisurely pace.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers other winter activities such as tobogganing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. The toboggan run on Kaunispää Hill is particularly popular, offering a thrilling ride with stunning views of the surrounding area. Equipment rental is available on-site, making it easy for visitors to try out different activities.
Discover the Northern Lights
One of the most magical experiences in Saariselkä is witnessing the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. This natural phenomenon is best observed from December to March, when the nights are longest and the skies are clearest. Saariselkä’s remote location, far from city lights, makes it an ideal spot for aurora hunting.
There are several ways to experience the Northern Lights in Saariselkä. Guided tours are available, offering expert knowledge and the best viewing spots. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a glass igloo or an aurora cabin, where you can watch the lights dance across the sky from the comfort of your bed.
For those who prefer a more active approach, snowshoeing or snowmobiling tours are available, taking you deep into the wilderness for an unobstructed view of the auroras. Remember to dress warmly and bring a camera to capture this unforgettable spectacle.
Unique Accommodation Option in Saariselkä
Saariselkä offers a variety of unique accommodation options that enhance the overall experience of your visit. From traditional log cabins to modern glass igloos, there is something to suit every taste and preference. One of the standout options is the VALO Ice Cube Villas, which provide a luxurious and cozy retreat amidst the snowy landscape.
The VALO Ice Cube Villas are designed with comfort and style in mind, featuring high-quality materials and finishes. Each villa comes equipped with a private sauna, a wood-burning fireplace, and large picture windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding nature. These villas provide the perfect base for exploring Saariselkä and its many attractions.
Immersive Sami Culture Experiences
The Sami people are the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland, and their rich culture and traditions are an integral part of the region’s identity. Saariselkä offers several opportunities to learn about and experience Sami culture, providing a deeper understanding of this unique way of life.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Sami culture is by visiting a reindeer farm. Here, you can learn about reindeer herding, a traditional Sami livelihood, and even take a reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy landscape. Many farms also offer the chance to try traditional Sami food and listen to joik, a form of Sami singing.
Another way to experience Sami culture is by visiting a Sami museum or cultural center. These institutions provide insights into Sami history, art, and traditions, offering a comprehensive overview of their way of life. Guided tours are often available, providing additional context and information.
For a more hands-on experience, consider participating in a Sami handicraft workshop. These workshops teach traditional skills such as duodji (Sami handicrafts), allowing you to create your own unique souvenir. This is a great way to connect with Sami culture and take home a piece of Lapland’s heritage.
At VALO Finland, we aim to provide our guests with a seamless and memorable experience in Saariselkä. From luxurious accommodation to expert guidance on local attractions, we are here to help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Saariselkä has something to offer everyone. Let us help you discover the magic of Lapland and create memories that will last a lifetime.
