Review of Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort - Igloos and Chalets

As winter sweeps across the Arctic Circle, Finnish Lapland transforms into a dreamscape for travelers seeking the ethereal Northern Lights, magical winter experiences, and authentic encounters with Santa Claus and his reindeer. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort stands out as the quintessential destination for these iconic bucket-list moments, offering guests unparalleled access to aurora viewing, local wildlife, and festive traditions—all year round. 

Split between the East and West Villages, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort features approximately 190 unique accommodations, including 65 log chalets, 65 signature glass igloos, and 40 hybrid Kelo-Glass igloos that blend rustic charm with panoramic sky views. Two on-site restaurants showcase a curated selection of Lappish cuisine, while exclusive venues such as the Santa Claus Celebration House, Korsu ‘The Underground’ Restaurant, and the atmospheric Smoke Sauna Restaurant cater to private gatherings and special occasions. 

Guests can indulge in five authentic smoke saunas—including the world’s largest—enjoy invigorating ice swims, and embark on Arctic safaris by husky, reindeer, snowmobile, snow tank, or horseback. The resort’s activity program is truly four-season: winter brings cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, and aurora chasing; autumn and summer unveil hiking in Urho Kekkonen National Park, gold panning, canoeing, mountain biking, foraging, and Lemmenjoki River cruises. Rental gear and clothing are available by advance reservation, ensuring comfort in every climate. 

For those seeking keepsakes, both villages house boutiques offering authentic Sami handicrafts and Lapland-inspired souvenirs.

Set in the heart of the Saariselkä Fell region, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is situated 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland. The nearest international gateway is Ivalo Airport, only a 30-minute transfer away, serviced by direct flights from Helsinki with Finnair and Norwegian—making access seamless even in peak winter. Private transfers, including a glass-roofed coach ideal for aurora or midnight sun viewing, are provided for all guests. Arrangements for travel to Norway or other Arctic destinations can be made upon request. Complimentary parking is available for those arriving by car, with Finland’s well-maintained roads ensuring safe passage year-round. 

The resort is perched at the threshold of untouched wilderness, just minutes from the Urho Kekkonen National Park—the largest protected area in Finland. The indigenous Sámi people, whose rich cultural heritage still shapes the region, have called this pristine landscape home for generations. Here, the air and water are among the purest in the world; guests can even drink directly from the natural lakes and streams. 

Lapland itself spans the northernmost reaches of Scandinavia, encompassing parts of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. The terrain is defined by rolling fells, ancient forests, and herds of reindeer, with the region’s highest peak, Halti, rising to 1,328 meters.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort boasts an impressive portfolio of nearly 190 accommodations, including 65 log chalets, 65 glass igloos, and 40 Kelo-Glass igloos, distributed between the East and West Villages. Each option is tailored for comfort and immersion in Lapland’s natural wonders.

The iconic Glass Igloos are designed for two or four guests, offering uninterrupted views of the Arctic sky. Two-person igloos provide a private toilet (with shared saunas and showers nearby), while four-person versions feature en-suite shower facilities. These igloos are the ultimate vantage point for witnessing the aurora borealis and stargazing without light interference. 

Kelo-Glass Igloos fuse the warmth of a traditional log cabin with a glass-domed bedroom, crafted from locally sourced kelo pine. Accommodating up to six, these suites include a private sauna, fireplace, kitchenette, and a glass-roofed sleeping area for an immersive celestial experience. 

The rustic Log Chalets, constructed from centuries-old kelo pine, sleep between one and ten guests. Expect authentic Finnish design—think roaring fireplaces and personal saunas, rather than modern distractions like widescreen TVs. The focus is on warmth, tradition, and a sense of place. 

Snow Igloos, available during the coldest months, offer a rare Arctic adventure. Despite outside temperatures plummeting as low as -40°C, the interior remains a manageable -3°C to -6°C. The resort provides thermal sleeping bags and all necessary gear for a surprisingly cozy night.

Queen Suites cater to couples seeking romance, with 60 square meters of space, a plush lounge, spa-style bathroom with sauna and bathtub, and a private terrace with an outdoor Jacuzzi—perfect for soaking under the stars year-round. 

Wedding Chambers are discreet earth lodges with grass roofs, blending seamlessly into the landscape. These secluded retreats come with saunas and indulgent bathrooms, ideal for honeymoons or private escapes. 

Guests can also stay in a meticulously preserved historic log house, offering two-person accommodation and a private sauna—an immersive journey into Lapland’s heritage.

For larger groups, the Sivakka chalet accommodates up to ten with its grand living room, three bedrooms, full kitchen, separate fireplace lounge, and sauna.

Gold Digger Chalets are nestled along the riverbank, providing tranquility, a personal sauna, and traditional Finnish kick sleds for easy access to resort amenities.

Travelers wishing to pack light can take advantage of the resort’s convenient rental program, which offers winter overalls, waterproof gear, rubber boots, skis, snowshoes, sleds, and bicycles. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak season. Both the East and West Villages feature boutique shops with curated souvenirs and locally made Sami crafts, perfect for gifts or mementos.

No visit to Finland is complete without a sauna ritual. While most chalets are equipped with private electric saunas, guests can also experience five traditional smoke saunas across the property—including the largest on the planet. The lakeside saunas accommodate up to 100 bathers each and include cozy fireplace lounges. For the adventurous, ice swimming is available year-round, with staff preparing a custom-cut opening in the frozen lake for a truly invigorating dip.

The resort’s diverse activity program includes husky safaris (with two major husky farms nearby), reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile excursions, panoramic sleigh journeys pulled by snow tanks, horseback riding, and ice fishing on Lake Inarinjärvi. In addition to classic winter pursuits, guests can enjoy aurora hunting, cross-country skiing, icebreaker cruises from Kemi, alpine skiing, snowboarding, and instruction at the on-site snow school.

During autumn, the landscape comes alive with horseback and ATV safaris, scenic hikes through UKK National Park, wild berry and mushroom foraging, wilderness canoeing, mountain biking, and gold panning. Summer brings additional offerings such as Lemmenjoki River cruises, cultural visits to the renowned Sami Museum Siida in Inari, and guided fishing expeditions.

For aurora enthusiasts, the Northern Lights season spans late August through late April. Thanks to minimal light pollution and unobstructed Arctic skies, Kakslauttanen is widely regarded as one of the top destinations on the planet for viewing this natural spectacle. While sightings can last minutes or hours, their frequency and intensity here are legendary, attracting photographers and skywatchers from around the world. Local folklore adds a poetic layer, describing the lights as celestial spirits or the shimmering shields of Valkyries.

Santa’s House welcomes private visits by appointment—especially popular for families during the festive season. Advance reservations are essential, as December is naturally Santa’s busiest period with his elves preparing for the holidays.

For grand celebrations, Santa’s Celebration House—Finland’s largest log structure—accommodates up to 250 guests for bespoke events and gatherings.

While the resort offers robust Wi-Fi connectivity, the true luxury here is to disconnect from screens and immerse yourself in Lapland’s untouched beauty. Whether savoring the warmth of a roaring fire in a log chalet, relaxing beneath the glass dome of an igloo, rejuvenating in a smoke sauna, or venturing into the wilderness, Kakslauttanen invites guests to reconnect with nature’s rhythms—especially when the aurora borealis dances overhead. 

The vision behind Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort belongs to Jussi Eiramo, who first discovered this remote corner of Lapland by chance and fell in love with its serenity. What began as a humble roadside chalet and café has evolved into one of Finland’s most celebrated hospitality brands, still personally managed by Eiramo and recognized for its commitment to authentic experiences and Finnish tradition. 

The resort’s two main restaurants present refined à la carte menus that highlight the best of local Lappish gastronomy. Depending on your location within the resort, guests can dine at the traditional Kelo Restaurant or the West Village’s Aurora Restaurant, renowned for its unique glass igloo bar. For special occasions, private events can be hosted in the Santa Claus Celebration House, the subterranean Korsu Restaurant, or the evocative Smoke Sauna Restaurant.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort was conceived with deep respect for its pristine environment, constructed by skilled local artisans and the indigenous Sámi community. The resort is committed to preserving the region’s natural purity—guests are invited to drink from crystal-clear lakes, and sustainable practices are woven into every aspect of the property. The result is an authentic, environmentally conscious experience in one of the world’s last true wildernesses.

• Arctic Experience: For those seeking the quintessential Lapland adventure—complete with encounters with Santa, reindeer, and the dazzling Northern Lights—this resort delivers an unparalleled, family-friendly escape. Safety, warmth, and wonder are hallmarks of the stay.
• Unique Accommodations: Sleeping beneath the glass dome of an igloo, especially as snowflakes drift overhead, is genuinely magical. The sensation is akin to living inside a snow globe, with panoramic night sky vistas that remain unforgettable.
• Family Appeal: Whether you’re traveling with children or simply young at heart, the festive spirit and variety of outdoor activities make Kakslauttanen an enchanting destination year-round. After a day of adventure, unwinding in a traditional sauna is an essential Finnish pleasure! Hämmästyttävä!Varun SharmaEditor In ChiefBusinessclass

All photos and videos courtesy of: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Lapland, Finland