LAPLAND HOTELS WINTER-SUMMER 2014-2015
FIND THE LAPLAND OF YOUR OWN PAGE 14
A l wonderfu Lapland Hotel Saaga
WE PROVIDE THE TASTES OF
Authentic Lapland PAGE 11
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A POPULAR AND WONDERFUL
Lainio SnowVillage
Contents 3 A wonderful spot
Within the centre of enchanting Lapland
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he number of international guests has developed well over recent years. It is great that the attraction of Lapland continues and our developed services are of interest to our customers. This encourages us to continue along our chosen path and to further improve our abundant variety of recreational options, in the context of our hotel, and to make them easy to use. The ingredients of a unique holiday include, among others, various safaris and high-quality skiing possibilities. Cross-country skiing is a key part of Nordic Wellbeing- it is definitely worth trying out all the best and most versatile forms of exercise. The top quality food that is prepared using Lapland’s pristine, full-flavoured local nature offerings is also something that we are greatly proud of. Lapland’s raw materials are unique, as they grow in demanding conditions, with the midnight sun during the summer, as well as the long dark winters. Chef Tero Mäntykangas is an award winning ambassador for modern Lappish cuisine in Finland. Our objective is to provide our guests with an easily accessible holiday experience. You can customize your own holiday via our online store and even select a delayed check-out, a Lapland delicacy package waiting in your hotel room, packed lunches for a day out or just a wonderful Northern Lights safari.
Superior accommodation is also an important part of a memorable holiday in Lapland. In addition to hotel rooms, we have a large selection of high quality holiday apartments, as well as traditional log cabins. A sauna is a natural component of good housing, so all the apartments and many of the hotel rooms have their own private sauna. We may very well be the world’s leading sauna chain, as we have close to 800 rooms or apartments with saunas! During the spring, when the snow in the south has already melted and nature is waking up, the snow cover in Lapland is at its greatest in early April and will not melt until May. The latter half of April is the best time to enjoy both the snow and the warm sunshine at the same time. Summer is also an incredible time for us who live here in Lapland. Just think about it, 24-hour sunshine, a pleasant 20-degree temperature and the lush nature. This is all in addition to air that has been proven to be the cleanest in Europe and mountain streams that are full of fresh water that is fit for drinking. Welcome to Lapland’s land of fairy-tales! ARI VUORENTAUSTA MANAGING DIRECTOR
I Love Lapland Winter-spring 2014-2015 CHIEF EDITOR Ari Vuorentausta, Lapland Hotels EDITING AND PRODUCTION Managing editor Kari Martiala, Tel. +358 45 6757122, Omnipress Oy/Suomen Lehtiyhtymä, Mäkelänkatu 56, 00510 Helsinki, www.omnipress.fi, LAYOUT Joonas Kavasto/Hank, www.hank.fi PRINTING PunaMusta Oy, 2014 ADDRESS SOURCE DIRECT POSTING Lapland Hotels customer register, Y-2043922-1, Yrjö Kokon tie 4, 99300 Muonio, Tel. 016 3232, info@laplandhotels.com
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in Ylläsjärvi, Lapland Hotel Saaga
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Lapland Club brings more holiday convenience, Lapland just the way you want it, All you need of a good Holiday
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Take a trip deep into unique nature
A popular and wonderful safari destination – Lainio SnowVillage
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Enjoy the soft steam of a sauna Northern lights blaze in Lapland
Lapland´s best 10 events 11 We provide the
tastes of authentic Lapland
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Explore the nature Find the Lapland of your own
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News
KOONNUT KARI MARTIALA
Tarjoukset Tulee tälläiseen boksiin ja sen euromäärän voisi merkitä tälläisella kuten esim. 250€
A wonderful spot in Ylläsjärvi
Lapland Hotel Saaga LAPLAND HOTEL SAAGA boasts incredible views of the fells, stretching out up to 100 kilometres away; a work of art, which is different every day of the year. The location on a slope makes Saaga an excellent location to stay. From the hotel doors, you can directly access the slopes, ski tracks or, even, trekking trails. The hotel has, altogether, 84 double rooms, of which 15 are superiorrooms. 13 of the rooms are equipped with individually controlled allergy level ventilation. In addition, the hotel has 4 rooms for disabled guests and 13 rooms in which pets can stay. All rooms are modernly equipped. In addition to the hotel, there are high-quality alternative accommodation options, such as chalet and holiday
apartments of differing sizes, within close proximity to the hotel - a total of 113 pieces.
A cosy spa area
The atmosphere at the pool department is created by stunning natural stone materials and lighting. You can enjoy the embrace of a wonderful natural stone cave Jacuzzi or traditional hot tub. Younger family members will be happy in the company of crocodiles in a paddling pool. Steam can be enjoyed, whether in a traditional Finnish sauna or a relaxing steam sauna. A separate reservation sauna is available for private use. The pool has a poolside bar, as well as lifeguards.
Restaurant world experiences
Lapland Hotel Saaga’s restaurant world offers experiences to suit all tastes. A high-quality a la carte restaurant also offers the tastes of the north, served in a new way. The Buffet restaurant, in turn, can provide a diverse buffet dinner. The bistro’s menu contains delicious dishes to suit all tastes, from salads to burgers and steaks, not to forget the tastes of the north. Children have their own menu, whilst children can also order servings from adult menus, at half the price. Diners can also pop in for meals during a day out on the slopes. The bistro also has a cosy bar and lounge area, which contains a billiard table, where you can sit back and relax. The restaurant has a Wi-Fi connection.
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News
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Lapland Club brings more holiday convenience LAPLAND CLUB is the best way to stay up to date with what is being offered by the most popular holiday destinations in Lapland! Membership is free. As a club member, you will enjoy the benefits and offers that are most suitable for you. You will also receive information on current campaigns and upcoming events in Lapland before others.
Join the Lapland inner group today and take advantage of the accommodation benefits immediately when making a booking. You will receive a temporary membership card during check-in at a hotel. We will post the official Lapland Club card about a month after registration. Join and take advantage of the benefits: www.laplandhotels.com/liity
All you need for a good Holiday VISIT the Lapland Hotels website
and book a pleasant holiday. Our holiday store is open 24/7. Just select your preferred location, room or apartment, as well as any additional services you would like. SELECT THE LANGUAGE
English Auf Deutsch En Español En français по-русски På Svenska 日本語 www.laplandhotels.com
Lapland just the way you want it
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LAPLAND means something to everyone. For some, it is the sense of community and tradition, for others, it is the nature and peace that resounds. Some will look for activities to pursue in Lapland, others will seek sources of pure relaxation. Some may even see the treeless fells of Lapland, others the clear water lakes. All of these aspects have been brought together through images and stories on the I Love Lapland Facebook pages, which has been created to bring out the diversity of Lapland. I Love Lapland is a community for everyone who finds something unique in Lapland. www.facebook.com/I.Love.Lapland
provide you with a Lapland holiday exactly how you want it to be! The selection of Lapland Hotels consists of twelve personal hotels, with high quality holiday apartments, as well as four downhill ski resorts: On the side of Äkäslompolo, Ylläs, Olos , Pallas and Luosto. Our holiday centres are located in different parts of the most beautiful scenery in Lapland, which can be perceived differently in its northern urban landscape, vibrant fell villages, or in its
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❆ spiritual wilderness idyll. With us, your holiday will consist of comfortable accommodation, delicious dining options and your desired program of events. There are outdoor activities on offer, from individual pursuits to guided safaris, a wide range of pampering treatments, indoor sports facilities, as well as, of course, evening programmes. If desired, you can also take advantage of the services of our cooperation companies- Lapland Safaris and Europcar ‒ conveniently under one roof.
Spend your holiday in a completely different arctic town landscape, a vibrant fell village or, even, enjoy peace in the wilderness.
Take a trip deep into unique nature
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ur holiday resorts are located in the middle of the most beautiful scenery in Lapland, and every location is guaranteed to be unique. You can reach nature directly from the doors of your hotel, and you might even get to meet a reindeer right in the yard. The best way to familiarize yourself with the unique Lappish nature is by participating in one of our many activities, take a ride on a snowmobile, husky or reindeer, far away from settlements, deep into the Arctic landscape. We arrange colourful peripheral programmes, and during the autumn and spring seasons, many of our hotels also have their very own “holiday guru” to serve holidaymakers. Lapland Hotel Äkäshotelli in Ylläs and Saariselkä’s Lapland Hotel Riekonlinna offer a variety of pampering and wellness treatments and indoor activity facilities. In addition, one of our cooperation partners, the largest programme service in Lapland, Lapland Safaris, offer outdoor activities, from individual pursuits, to guided safaris.
EXHILARATING SNOWMOBILE SAFARIS.
Experience the excitement of driving a snowmobile; join a safari trip far away from all inhabitations, over frozen rivers and lakes. Snowmobiles generally move along on snowmobile routes, where their use is both safe and comfortable. Lapland Safaris’ range of services includes a number of snowmobile safaris, ranging in length from two to six hours. Safaris are perfect for anyone holding a driver’s license or motorcycle card. All safaris are supported by professional guides, so that you can safely experience an unforgettable experience in the breathtaking nature of Lapland. You could also select a thrilling snowmobile safari, with a focus on the driving and enjoying the Lapland nature or go ice-fishing on a wilderness lake. Some of the best ice fishing lakes are easiest to get to by snowmobile. While you make a hole in the ice and try your luck, the guide can prepare a meal at a campfire. We can even go by snowmobile to
Santa Claus Village! However, perhaps one of the most exotic and invigorating experiences is to driving under the moonlight, on a snowmobile trip under Lapland’s stars on the Northern Lights excursion.
TRAVELLING WITH ANIMALS IN NATURE. Follow in the footsteps of the Sami
people by travelling in a sleigh pulled by reindeer. A reindeer excursion is a peaceful way to travel through the quiet nature of Lapland. A husky Safari is a really exciting experience, especially if you have the opportunity to act as a driver and guide your own husky team. Experience the excitement of the dogs, when they are passionately waiting to pull a sled through the breathtaking Lappish nature. You can also connect a snowmobile safari to a husky or reindeer farm visit and enjoy meeting the arctic animals and riding in the nature.
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A popular and wonderful safari destination
Lainio Snow Village Every winter, Lainio Snow Village comes to life and offers some great new experiences for its guests. TEXT BY KARI MARTIALA PHOTOS BY JANNE KOSKENNIEMI
THE SNOW VILLAGE is close to
4000m2 in size and is completely constructed out of snow and ice. A snowy restaurant operates in the largest igloo in the world, whilst visitors can also visit the village’s snowy church, a movie theatre and even explore frozen hotel rooms. The Snow Village is located in Lainio, in the area of Ylläs, close to 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle. You can spend a once in a lifetime night at the hotel, dine on food prepared by a top chef and even enjoy, for example, videos of the northern lights. A dazzling, massive façade welcomes arriving visitors. The Snow Village changes form
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every winter, and gains its expression and appearance as the result of the work of many of the world’s luminaries in ice construction. For example, the restaurant made from snow is as much as 16 meters in diameter, and can seat up to 120 diners at the one time. –The restaurant is built without the use of support structures, and as far as I know, there is no larger snow igloo anywhere else in the world. It would be impossible to build one that is greater in size, as the weight of the snow is so enormous that the construction would become too heavy, says Rami Kurtakko, who is responsible for the building project.
A six-metre-high wolf
Restaurant guests will be able to admire a six metre tall ice wolf, sitting in a central position in the dining space. –Animal characters are also present elsewhere in the village. Within the hotel premises, there is also a five metre tall lynx. Kurtakko’s working group excel in snow-and ice constructions. For example, the interiors of the Snow Village have been made by world class specialists from China and Latvia. The theme for the interior design this year is Arctic Design, which means abstract, Arctic art. This is also reflected, both in the restaurant and public areas, as well as the hotel rooms.
Lainio Snow Village open from 10.12.2014 !
For the construction of the Snow Village, about 40 000 cubic metres of manufactured snow was used- that is to say, the total weight comes to about 20 million kilograms. The village takes up an area of 1.5-hectares. The hotel has 28 rooms in total, of which eight are large suites. Two suites are for the use of families, with four beds. All in all, the hotel has 60 beds.
Delicacies from a top chef in the restaurant
For the winter season, Topi Rönkä, who has worked at high class restaurants, has been enlisted for the Snow Village restaurant. As a result, we can promise creative and bold dishes. Also new for this starting season
will be cocktails, which, from the turn of the year, will be juggled and mixed by the legendary Laura Nissinen from the American Bar, Helsinki. –We have really fine, professional staff. All have brilliant, quirky personalities, laughs Viivi Saarensalmi. Many of the customers of the Snow Village stay over at the hotel, as well as dine there, so the snow res-
"As far as I know, there is no larger snow igloo anywhere else in the world."
taurant invests in good looking, highquality delicious dishes. –We offer skapas type food, or Scandinavian type tapas, as well as á la carte dishes, describes Saarensalmi. –Our chef Topi is innovative and imaginative, and during the winter season, he will embrace his artistic side and freely produce a new range of dishes. The wine list focuses on the delicacies of the old wine country, and we also have great reasonably priced individual drinks on our cellar list. We have, for example, a genuine appleflavoured non-alcoholic French cider, which is, therefore, also suitable for children and young people.
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Finnish Sauna What could be more Finnish than a sauna? Enjoying a sauna is about much more than just bathing.
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sauna stove, a hot pile of stones, is used to heat up a sauna. The stove holds stones, which store the heat. When water is thrown onto the hot stones, it is converted into hot steam. This steam rises upwards towards the upper sections of the sauna room and, therefore, the sauna rooms also have sauna benches that are installed up towards the ceiling. The sauna stove can be heated by electricity or wood. Prior to sitting in the sauna, it is best to wash yourself, so that the sauna remains clean, whilst the steam feels at its most pleasant when it is in contact with moist skin. The use of a towel to sit on increases the hygiene levels and separates the heat of the hot benches from the skin. A suitable sauna bathing temperature is a matter of taste, but in general, a temperature between from 70 to 90 degrees C is favourable at head height. At the beginning, it is good to warm up in the sauna, thus, sweat will be able to calmly rise to the surface of the skin. After this, water should be thrown onto the stones, a little
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at a time. When taking a traditional sauna, some bathers like to whip themselves calmly with birch twigs, to increase the effectiveness of the cleansing process. At the same time, the twigs spread a wonderful aroma around the sauna! SAUNA AS A SOURCE OF HEALTH. In Fin-
land, a sauna has long been considered to be a traditional cure for many diseases. Every Finn knows the popular Finnish saying: ”If a sauna, liquor or tar does not help, the disease is fatal.” Sauna bathing relieves aches and pains, as well as improves the quality of sleep. It is said that after a sauna, a woman is at her most beautiful! Many Finns believe that a sauna cleanses the soul. During the winter, as the freezing temperatures and chilly draughts arrive, it is pleasant to retreat into the warmth of a sauna. On the other hand, during the summer, nothing beats the soft steam of a wood-burning sauna, followed by a dip into the water of a lake. A healthy person can safely go to the sauna as often as they like. In the old days, in rural areas, a sauna was a place for both births and deaths.
TEXT RIITTA KARHUSILTA
Newborns received their first washes there, whilst bodies were also washed and cleansed there after death. Saunas have a very special bathing meaning during celebratory days, such as Christmas and Midsummer’s eve. A sauna is for calming down and relaxing. It is not allowed to talk loudly or use bad language in a sauna. In Finland, it is common for the whole family to bathe in a sauna at the same time. HEATING A HOTEL ROOM/COTTAGE SAUNA. There is normally an on-site guide
to assist in the heating of a sauna. Please read these instructions carefully. Two control adjustments are required. First of all, select the time, how long the sauna is to remain warm. And secondly, select the desired temperature. The time control may also have a timer, in the event that you only want the sauna to be heated at a later time. It usually takes about half an hour to heat up a small sauna. If the benches higher up begin to feel too hot, bathers should move to the benches lower down, where the sauna will be a little cooler.
Northern lights blaze in Lapland
Autumn 2014 has been excellent in terms of Northern lights, incidence has been really high. A green light dancing through the night sky would charm just about anybody. The northern lights have always been mysterious and unpredictable. Both residents and visitors in Lapland are in the fortunate position to be able to observe this magnificent yearly spectacle. TEXT RIITTA KARHUSILTA
TO VIEW the northern lights, it must be
sufficiently dark and the sky must be as cloud-free as possible. Observers must move away from the lights of residential settlements, towards darker areas, to scout the northern sky. The best time for viewing the northern lights are the hours on both sides of midnight. The displays of the northern lights generally culminate between 22- 23.30, i.e., the so called, magnetic midnight. However, the northern lights can also be observed during evenings. During the early morning, the amount of occurrences of the northern lights decreases once again.
Stories and beliefs
The Finnish word for the northern lights, “revontulet”, refers to a fox. The story goes that a fire fox rubbed its side on a fell, whereupon sparks flew off into the sky as northern lights. According to a second version, the tail of a fox swept the northern lights up from a snow drift into the sky. The glow of the northern lights often resembles flames or the
sweep of a fox’s tail. According to Siberian folklore, a child born under the light of the northern lights will have a happy and long life.
What variations of Northern Lights are there?
Each and every burst of the northern lights is a little bit different. The most common form is, however, a yellowishgreen arc in the northern sky. It becomes clearer over time, will start to churn and can even, for a moment, cover the entire sky. In addition, a purple colour can be seen, sometimes even red. A northern lights corona may be talked about, when the northern Lights open up directly above the observer, lighting up in a radial manner from a single point, resembling an umbrella.
Subscribe to a Northern Lights alert
The scientific name for the northern lights is aurora borealis. The frequency
of the northern lights is dependent on the activity of the sun, which varies in cycles that are about 11-years long. The most recent sunspot maximum has just taken place, while the longer-term space weather is expected to abate in Northern Lapland. The northern lights, however, can still be well seen. The light of the northern lights is generated in the stratosphere, at an altitude of about 100-200 km. The Finnish Meteorological Institute maintains a free alert concerning the northern lights. It sends an email message to those who are interested in the matter, informing recipients of when the Northern Lights are likely to be the most noticeable. You can join up with the northern lights alert list via aurorasnow-feed@posti.fmi.fi. Auroras Now! is a space weather service, which facilitates the observation of the northern lights in Finland. The service includes magnetic field detectors, as well as near real-time camera images of the northern lights.
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Lapland events calendar We have picked the most interesting events that will take place in Lapland. The same events will take place year after year- only the dates will change. 6.6.2014 – 12.4.2015 What did the
north look like, when viewed from the south hundreds of years ago? From whose point of view is history made? The treasures of the Arktikum Museum and Arctic Science Centre’s map collection are available to be viewed by the public after a break of more than twenty years. Were there really fierce looking monsters in the waters of the Arctic Ocean? Arktikum Museum and Arctic Science Centre, Rovaniemi. Meän elämää (Our lives)-exhibition tells a story of the environment of the Pallas-Yllästunturi national park- the villages, the streams flowing from the fells, the forests, marshes and meadows, as well as the Väylä, or River Tornio-Muonionjoki, a life stream, around which life is structured. Ylläs Nature Centre.
10.10.2014-8.2.2015 The interpretation of the Inari Sámi soul landscape is seen, above all, through water: as brooks, rivers and lakes. Images of landscapes in dark tones evoke the drama of the varying seasons. Large landscapes are punctuated with tiny details of the environment. Jan-Eric Paadar photo exhibition. Nature Centre Siida. Inari.
December
l Arctic market, Arktikum, Rovaniemi. 12.-14.12.2014. l Santa Claus is coming to town, 23.12.2014 Santa Claus Village, Arctic Circle Santa Claus will depart on his long journey to distribute gifts to the children of the world.
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January
Kilpisjärvi exercise midsummer. Legendary fitness event in Finland’s wildest terrain. Organised since 1946. 27.-29.6.2014.
l Arctic Lapland Rally, Rovaniemi, 22. – 24.1.2015 l Ylläs, Jazz Blues, 29.1. – 1.2.2015, 20th-year anniversary. Lapland Hotel Äkäshotelli.
February
l Arctic Design Week, Rovaniemi, 16.-22.2.2015.
March
l Porocup (Reindeer Cup). The Association of Siida’s 4th Reindeer Cup will be held in Äkäslompolo! The event will attract 200 reindeer. Ylläs. 20.22.3.2015.
l Saint Mary’s days. Annual Sami cultural event in Enontekiö. Hetta. 20 – 23.3.2015. l Rovaniemi Reindeer Sprint Race. Street races with the fastest reindeers in Rovaniemi city centre. 20.3.2015.
April
l Rovaniemi Crafts Fair. 18. – 19.4.2015 l Hetta’s Music days. High class classical music festival. Hetta, Enontekiö, 30.3.-5.4.2015. l Only 2 fish – ice fishing event, Kilpisjärvi. 30.4.2015
June
l Sodankylä Film Festival, one of the most unique film events in the world. 10. – 14.6.2015.
July
l Kittilä’s traditional summer fair, 2. - 6.7.2015.
August
l LuostoClassic is a classical music event that shuns all boundaries, where experiences of art are brought out into the fell nature of Lapland. 6. – 9.8.2015.
September
l RuskaRock & Culture –music event, Olos. Dates tba. l Ruskamaraton (Autumn Marathon), Levi. 5.9.2015. l Pallas Excursion week and Pallas’s day. 7.-13.9.2015
We provide the tastes of authentic Lapland
Tero Mäntykangas, kitchen manager of Lapland Hotels, is proud of their new extensive menu. ‒ All of our food is made with a genuine Lapland twist ‒ we look for wonderful Lappish tastes for our dishes, Mäntykangas says. THE NEW menu for the restaurants of Lapland Hotels is made with great passion. With the help of indulgent and attractive servings, carefully selected seasonal raw materials and clear recipes, every restaurant can now offer a wider range of dishes that are sure to satisfy the most titillating of palates. Family travellers will certainly delight in the fact that as a result of joint purchases and careful planning, we have been able to respond to the challenges set by the current economic situation in Finland- to provide tasty foods at advantageous prices. The menu takes into account the varying target groups, so everyone will be able to obtain delicious dishes, according to one’s own specific taste. ‒ Our best selling dish last year was the Lapland burger. We have now developed the Lapland French fries, made from almond potatoes, to follow it, Mäntykangas says. ‒ The menu also has popular sandwiches with Lappish fillings, such as deer or, even, red king crab. The versatile menu also contains familiar favourites; Sautéed reindeer,
reindeer shank braised overnight in an oven, garlic beef steak and fried Oulujärvi whitefish.
Local food from the north According to Mäntykangas, northern products are always selected for the dishes, whenever possible. ‒ Dishes have included, among others, whitefish roe from Lake Inari, roasted smoked reindeer by Erkki Musto-
MENU LAPLAND
Reindeer carpaccio, Juustoportti goat’s cheese, marinated mushrooms and deep fried lichen Roasted Arctic char, pea-barley and red king crab sauce Blueberry Créme Brùleé
nen, Kuusamo smoked cheese, Tervola mill barley and Oulujärvi whitefish. The tastes of Lapland are also connected to the snail-portions that are offered with smoked reindeer and blue cheese butter. Caesar salad dressing is made with smoked vendace, instead of anchovy oil. The signature Lapland Hotels grilled steak is a beef steak, with smoked reindeer and blue cheese butter, almond potato French fries and salad. ‒ Long-braised reindeer shanks are also a popular dish, as well as roasted arctic char, with pea-barley and red king crab sauce.
Children eat at a discount
‒ Children are important customers for us and it is a matter of the heart that the food tastes good and the mind is happy. Whilst on holiday, children should get to eat what they want, just as adults do. Mäntykangas points out that a holiday is not always the right time to teach children to eat properly and healthily. ‒ We offer French fries, sausages and meatballs. And if a child wants to eat from the adult’s menu, the serving is available at half the price.
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Explore the nature Lapland’s nature is located usually quite close to a hotel ‒ and is a safe environment to explore. Ask at the hotel about trekking routes. By exploring the nature, you will be able to experience the Finnish way to unwind. It is said that the forest is like a church to the Finns. It is a useful place to gather up energy and leave your worries behind. TEXT RIITTA KARHUSILTA
Clean air
How can the nature of Lapland be experienced and seen? Start by breathing. Lapland has been proven to have the cleanest air. Even a short walk in the fresh air will refresh your wellbeing.
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Eight seasons
The seasons are clearly distinguishable in Lapland. Instead of four seasons, in Lapland, eight seasons are talked about, each of which has its specific chores. The seasonal names describe the weather and the time of events. The seasons are frosty winter, crusted snow spring, ice break-up spring, the midnight sun, harvest, golden autumn, the first snow and Christmas darkness. The differences are dramatic: during the summer, it is bright, both day and night, while during the polar night in the winter, it is dark around the clock. The temperature also varies dramatically during the different seasons of the year. During the autumn, the seasonal colours enchant outdoor enthusiasts.
Natural characteristics
Lapland’s special characteristics are fast flowing rivers, clear water lakes, extensive marshes and spectacular fells. By fells, we mean a mountainous area, free of trees. Evergreen conifers, pines and spruces, make up the majority of the forests. Light barked birch trees are at their most beautiful in the summer and during the golden autumn time. During the summer, you may be surprised by the abundance of flowers and the chirping of the birds, as nature exudes during its short growing season. You will surely run across familiar species, but Lapland has many birds, mammals, fish and insects that only nest in Lapland. In addition, there are many species, a majority of which live in the north.
Succulent berries
During the autumn, you will be able to taste Finnish berries directly from nature, actual vitamin bombs. Blueberries and cranberries ripen every year in abundance, but the amount of the pride of Lapland, cloudberries that grow in the marshes, varies. The local residents guard the locations where they grow well and are loathe to tell outsiders. Black crowberries are hardy plants, as a result of the northern conditions. It grows during the autumn, just like a carpet on the ground. The leaves of bearberries are highly noticeable during the golden autumn period, when their flaming red leaves dot the autumn landscape. Lapland’s aromatic berries are picked by both Finnish commercial fruit pickers and those from as far away as Asia.
Reindeer Lace patterned stones
Lapland’s stones are particularly beautiful. Many observers have admired the lace-like patterns of the lichen growing on the stones, the beauty of the Rhizocarpaceae. Each stone is unique - and there are certainly enough stones!
Most visitors to Lapland probably want to see a reindeer! Reindeer move around naturally, half-tamed. You may be able to see a reindeer from a distance, but do not try to stroke a reindeer, as it will be afraid of you. Each reindeer has its own owner, who can be identified by a mark notched on an ear. During the winter, their coats will keep the reindeer warm during hard wintery conditions. The colour of the reindeer varies from greyish brown to, even, snow-white. Reindeer shed their antlers every year, so, with good luck, you may even be able to find some reindeer antlers in nature.
Long-distance migration
Most birds are migratory birds. Some birds, such as the Arctic tern, will make an incredibly long flight to be able to nest in Lapland for the summer.
Means of survival during the winter
The animals of Lapland have come up with ingenious ways in which to survive the occasional harsh conditions they will experience. Species have adapted to the cold winter, among other things, by growing thick fur or by sleeping under the snow, the environment of which is significantly warmer than on the outside. During the winter, it is fun to watch out for animal tracks in the snow and try to identify them. Start with, perhaps, a reindeer and even a hare, you will certainly find traces of these! Some of the animals also change the colour of their coats, according to the season. Grouse and hare are brown during the summer, but in white, during the winter. The change in colours helps the animals avoid the clutches of predators.
No reason to remain indoors
Every kind of weather is good weather to be outside- you just have to dress correctly. Finns explore and enjoy nature throughout the year; they just need more clothes as it gets colder. In return for the time spent outdoors, you will receive red cheeks, a vibrant mind and a good appetite.
Snow wonders
During the winter, nature takes on a new look. When the snow falls, you should observe the snowflakes- if only it was possible to catch them. Each snowflake has six corners, but, otherwise, they are all unique. Snow varies in its structure- it can be as fine as flour or like sugar or it may even be hard-packed. Mother Nature conjures up an actual fairytale world, when the trees are layered with white frost. When it snows more, the snow that collects on top of the tree branches forms imaginative shapes and figures.
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TEXT KARI MARTIALA IMAGES KARI MARTIALA & LAPLAND HOTELS
Find the Lapland of your own The 11 personal hotels of the Lapland Hotels chain are located in close proximity to city culture, ski resorts, large wilderness areas or on the edge of rugged landscapes.
Hetta A GENUINE SAMI VILLAGE
Kilpisjärvi A GATEWAY TO THE ARCTIC SEA
Come and explore the real Lapland, Finland’s last untouched wilderness area, on the border of three countries. Large fells, such as Kilpisjärvi’s unforgettable Saana or Malla that guards over Finland ’s oldest nature reserve, are part of the Finnish national landscape. The region of Kilpisjärvi is the location of all 40 of Finland’s mountains that are more than one kilometre in height. When skiing, you can get to the Three country cairn, from which there are wonderful views of the high fells of Sweden and Norway’s Pältsa and the Paras - high fells. Whilst at Kilpisjärvi, you can also make a day trip to the coast of the Arctic Ocean, 50 km away, to the Skibotn fishing village or the ”Paris of the North”, in other words, the city of Tromsø. LAPLAND HOTEL KILPIS is a base for adventurers, winter and summertime fishermen, as well as trekkers, surrounded by Finland’s highest peaks, very close to wonderful “alpine scenery”. Our hotel is located in wonderful scenery, by the side of Kilpisjärvi, close to Saana.
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I ❤ Lapland
The Enontekiö parish village of Hetta, is located on the shoreline of Ounasjärvi, leading to the Norway Kautokeino junction. From Hetta, towards the south, the Pallas-Yllästunturi national park opens up. When in Hetta, you can experience a day trip to Kautokeino, Norway, or visit the Nature and Culture centre Skierri in the village, providing the opportunity to explore the nature of Lapland and the history of tourism. In March, during Annunciation day, Hetta is filled with a colourful Sami celebration, along with organised programmes.
LAPLAND HOTEL HETTA, favoured for peaceful, conference organizers and outdoor activity enthusiasts, is located in the parish village of Enontekiö, on the coast of the beautiful Ounasjärvi, amidst vast wilderness areas, with excellent opportunities for outdoor recreational pursuits.
Muonio BY THE SIDE OF TORNIONJOKI
Muonio is located on E8, or alongside the Kilpisjärventie road, by the beautiful Tornionjoki river passing between Finland and Sweden. Pallas and Olos are a personal cluster of fells and the nature has been proven to be the cleanest in Europe. LAPLAND HOTEL OLOS, suitable for active holidaymaking and high quality conferences, is located at the foot of Olostunturi. Olos has everything you need for your stay; privacy, company, well- groomed slopes, the best crosscountry ski trails and routes, as well as world-class accommodation in holiday apartments and suites. The hotel has
magnificent views over the Pallas fells. Pallas is the truest and most traditional downhill ski mountain and a real paradise for enthusiasts. LAPLAND HOTEL PALLAS is a classic tourist hotel, an authentic wilderness hotel on the mountain slopes. In particular, Telemark enthusiasts have taken the place as their own. A holiday in Pallas is encapsulated in an unhurried and relaxed time together, outdoors in the fresh mountain air.
Levi A GENUINE LAPLAND ALPINE VILLAGE
Levi is a year-round, international tourist centre in Fell Lapland. The versatile services of the area, as well as the environment, create the conditions for a holiday, in which each day can provide wonderful experiences in the Lappish fell scenery. The super fells of Lapland will provide enough activities, even during snowless periods, as well as programmes and experiences for visitors of all ages. Why not visit a wilderness studio, the well-known Lappish painter
Rovaniemi THE CAPITAL OF LAPLAND
Have a holiday close to a city, but surrounded by nature. Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, where you can combine the many possibilities of a city and a real snow holiday. Whilst at Rovaniemi, you can pop out on a date with Santa at his grotto and visit the Santa Claus Village that is open all year round. Arktikum, in turn, contains science and culture under the same roof, more experiences can be provided in the grand Korundi House of Culture or the Arctic Circle Husky Park. LAPLAND HOTEL SKY OUNASVAARA is located in a fantastic loca-
tion, high on the top of Ounasvaara, with an unobstructed view across the Lappish nature. The hotel is a particularly popular place for conferences, providing a surrounding landscape to break free from the daily grind. A few years back, the hotel’s restaurant was one of the top 20 restaurants in Finland. LAPLAND HOTEL BEAR´S LODGE is only a half hour drive from the city of Rovaniemi. The wilderness hotel provides an easy setting to find your own peaceful relaxing vacation, a successful meeting or an important celebration.
Reidar Särestöniemi’s artist ’s home in Kaukonen in Kittilä. LAPLAND HOTEL SIRKANTÄHTI, with its diverse accommodation options, is located in an ideal location at the heart of the Levi fell village - we live amidst the centre of events, and its only a short trip to take part in activities. Why not round off your holiday with a snowmobile safari on Levi’s spectacular routesyou can even depart directly and conveniently from the yard of the hotel.
Ylläs EMBRACED BY THE SEVEN FELLS
Äkäslompolo is a genuine Lappish village, which is located, embraced by the seven fells, at the foot of Yllästunturi. All services are close by and the gorgeous outdoor terrain starts right outside the hotel. Ylläs is known for its particularly good hiking opportunities. When considering the number of slopes, the slope kilometres and altitude differences, as well as their diversity, Ylläs is the largest ski resort in Finland. LAPLAND HOTEL ÄKÄSHOTELLI offers everything that is needed for a good and active holiday in Äkäslompolo, in an authentic village atmosphere. The day’s moment of pampering can be enjoyed with health treatments, a sauna and swimming pool, as well as, to crown the evening of, the dance and dining restaurant Pirtukirkko. The Family favourite LAPLAND HOTEL YLLÄSKALTIO offers uncomplicated accommodation in non-smoking rooms with saunas, easy transport to a wide variety of slopes and hearty meals from a buffet table. For children and young people, the hotel has its own games’ room and a playroom for the family’s little ones. LAPLAND HOTEL SAAGA is located right in the heart of Ylläs. The hotel boasts incredible views of the fells, stretching out up to 100 kilometres away; a work of art, which is different every day of the year. From the front door, one can directly access the slopes, ski tracks or even go trekking. A magnificent pool complex, with Jacuzzis and steam saunas, offers excellent opportunities for relaxation.
Luosto THE ATMOSPHERE OF A SILVER PINE VILLAGE
From Rovaniemi, it is just over an hour’s drive to Luosto, a unique silver pine village offering a genuine Lapland environment. Pyhä-Luosto National Park is known in particular for its 35 -kilometre-long fell ridge and the magnificent sights from the Amethyst Mine that can be found at Lampivaara, in the centre of the national park. Luosto certainly has enough to do for a holiday. Whether you want to cross country or downhill ski, play, swim, or have fun with reindeer and huskies – you will be able to find it all here. LAPLAND HOTEL LUOSTOTUNTURI
is known for its amethyst spa and the area’s wide range of restaurants. The hotel’s star guests and popular dances are well known nationally.
Saariselkä LAPLAND’S GOLD VILLAGE
Saariselkä is a classic fell resort, Lapland’s genuine gold village. Saariselkä tourist centre is located in Northern Lapland, in the municipality of Inari. On all sides, northern Europe’s largest fell plateau opens out, where the natural purity, beauty and the silence of the fells provide the opportunity to relax and cool off. Regarded as a high standard holiday destination, LAPLAND HOTEL RIEKONLINNA is located only a day trip from the Arctic Ocean, amidst the services of Saariselkä. Riekonlinna offers high quality services for the entire family. Accommodation options include new, high-quality apartments. Our new restaurant serves the best Lappish game delicacies and exotic Arctic Ocean Seafood, with international flavours.
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NORWAY
Kilpisjärvi HETTA
IVALO
Hetta, Enontekiö
Saariselkä Pallas, Muonio
Olos, Muonio Levi
LAPLAND HOTELS DISTRICT = AIRPORT
KITTILÄ
Ylläs Luosto ROVANIEMI
Rovaniemi
SWEDEN
Youray Holidre Sto els.com t o H d Laplan
FINLAND
HELSINKI
RUSSIA
SALES@LAPLANDHOTELS.COM