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Winter Fun in Ruka

Winter in the mountains of Lapland with skiing possibilities
Dog sledding Ruka Kuusamo, Finland © Harri Tarvainen/Visit Finland

Ruka is Finland’s playground, offering adventure and nature. Skiing is a very popular sport here, and the area boasts 39 slopes and 240km of snow tracks. There is a selection of excursions, including snowmobiles, huskies and Aurora tours. Rukan Salonki resort is located close to the airport and to the slopes, and a variety of excursions are possible from the property. A ski bus operates once an hour from the property. To top it off, you will be away from the crowds in the openness of nature. Come out to play, and welcome to Ruka.

Itinerary

Day 1 Kuusamo Arrival 

On arrival, transfer from the airport to Rukan Salonki, the resort is located approximately 25 minutes away. Rukan Salonki is located by a beautiful lake, with accommodation varying from villas to log chalets. Your accommodation for the next five nights is in a Veskaranta Sky View Villa. The two-story apartments on the shore of the lake are filled with a warm atmosphere. Upstairs bedrooms come with skylights that offer a view of the northern sky. Downstairs offers a spacious area comprising a living room, kitchen, and fireplace. Dinner in the main restaurant tonight.

Day 2 Santa Claus Cottage Excursion and Aurora Hunt

Breakfast is served in the main restaurant each morning. We all know that Santa lives in the North of Finland, and today we have planned a very special day full of fun at Santa’s Cottage. Spend a joyful day with Santa Claus, Mrs Claus and the elves. The cottage is located a 30 minute drive away and includes a snack of grilled sausages and hot berry juice. Return to your villa and time at leisure. Dinner on your own arrangement. Late night is the best time to see the Northern lights, tonight try your luck as you are driven to the best spots in an Aurora wagon. Snacks are served around a fire, and hopefully the Northern Lights will appear. 

Day 3 Husky Safari and Aurora Snowmobile Safari

This morning, you will be driven to a husky camp, where you will be greeted by enthusiastic huskies. This small-scale husky camp is located in a forest, and the trails offer a wonderful experience as you drive your own team of dogs. The team carries two persons, one musher, and one passenger - you can change places during the safari. Return to the resort and time at leisure. This evening set out for some more adventure, hunt for the Northern Lights by Snowmobile. After meeting your guide and hearing the safety instructions, set out on your snowmobile driving on forest tracks, marvel at the northern sky, and hopefully the Aurora will also make a magical appearance. Hot drinks and light snacks are included en-route.

Day 4 Day at Leisure 

Spend the day as you want to! Relax, enjoy a sauna, or get active. Perhaps you want to try the many ski options located at Ruka ski resort. The ski bus departs every hour and takes less than 10 minutes each way.

Day 5 Reindeer Farm Visit

Morning excursion to a local Reindeer Farm. The reindeer plays an important role in Finland, and herding has long traditions and is a lifestyle as much as a livelihood. Experience an old mode of travelling, by reindeer sleigh. Snacks will be served around a campfire. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 6 Kuusamo Departure

Check out, transfer to the airport and end of arrangements.


2023-2024 departures: daily December - March

Notes:

The order of the excursions will alter according to the day of the week your arrangements start.

Nordic Travel is 100% Australian owned and operated