Northern Lights Village - Saariselka - Finnish Lapland

Northern Lights Village, Saariselka, Finnish Lapland

Our recent stay at Northern Lights Village, Saariselkä, in Finnish Lapland was nothing short of extraordinary. Initially, we were unsure whether the 30sqm Aurora Cabins would feel cramped, especially with my husband and son being quite tall. However, to our delight, the space was well-designed, and we never felt restricted. Each cabin is thoughtfully equipped with a double bed and a double sofa bed, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. I shared the sofa bed with my daughter and found it surprisingly comfortable. The cabins also feature tea and coffee-making facilities, a minibar, and a well-stocked wet room with premium toiletries. Underfloor heating provides additional warmth, making the experience even more enjoyable in the Arctic climate. Perhaps the most magical feature of the cabin is its glass roof, allowing guests to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds—an unforgettable experience. One important note: housekeeping services are available upon request, ensuring privacy while maintaining convenience.

We were on a full-board basis, we enjoyed a fantastic variety of dishes, ensuring there was something to satisfy every palate. From fresh salads, hearty stews, warming soups, and a selection of meats and fish, to vegetarian and vegan options, the menu was thoughtfully designed to cater to all dietary preferences. Families were also well taken care of, with a dedicated kids’ menu offering dishes that little ones would love. Dessert was a special treat—featuring an array of delicious sweets, including a chocolate fountain for an extra indulgent touch. And for those with more of a savoury tooth, there was always a cheese board, offering the perfect way to end a meal.

While the stunning landscapes, thrilling excursions, and cosy accommodations made this an unforgettable family holiday, what truly set it apart was the incredible staff. From the warm welcome at reception, to the attentive team in the restaurant and bar (they make a great White Russian), and the passionate guides who brought every adventure to life, every interaction was infused with kindness, expertise, and a genuine love for what they do. Their dedication made every moment feel extra special, ensuring we felt both valued and cared for throughout our stay. I truly cannot praise them highly enough—their hospitality was at the heart of making this one of the best family holidays we’ve ever had.

Overall, Northern Lights Village combines comfort, functionality, and immersive Arctic beauty, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking an unforgettable Lapland adventure.

Husky Sledding

Among the many excursions offered at Northern Lights Village, our first experience was husky sledding—an unforgettable journey through the pristine Lapland wilderness. Before you even see them, you’ll hear them—the excited, energetic howls of the huskies eager to embark on their next adventure. Despite their boundless enthusiasm, these dogs are also incredibly affectionate, making the experience both thrilling and heartwarming. After a brief introduction and instructions, one guest takes the role of the musher, guiding the sled, while the other enjoys the ride seated in front. We set off on a 5km trek across the snow-covered landscape, gliding effortlessly as the dogs raced through the crisp Arctic air. Upon returning, we spent some time bonding with our sled team, appreciating their warmth and playful nature. To round off the experience, we were treated to a cup of hot berry juice—a delicious staple throughout Lapland that provides comfort after a brisk adventure. Husky sledding is a perfect combination of adrenaline, connection with nature, and the joy of bonding with these incredible dogs. It is undoubtedly an excursion not to be missed when visiting Northern Lights Village.

Aurora Hunting by Heated Sleigh

We set off in a heated sleigh, pulled by a snowmobile, venturing deep into the Lapland wilderness in search of the elusive Northern Lights. Along the way, we took a delightful break where the children had fun sledding with toboggans, adding an extra layer of joy to the experience. Our journey continued until we reached a remote location, far from any light pollution—the perfect setting to witness nature’s most dazzling display. While the auroras are never guaranteed, we were fortunate enough to see them, their ethereal glow dancing across the night sky. As ventured into the Kota (traditional Sami shelter), we warmed ourselves with toasted marshmallows and, of course, another cup of hot berry juice. What truly made this excursion special was the guides—their warmth, camaraderie, and passion for the region turned a beautiful experience into something unforgettable. Their stories added depth to the adventure, making us feel truly immersed in the magic of Lapland.

Snowmobiling

For those craving an adrenaline rush, snowmobiling through the snowy forests and hills of Saariselkä is an exhilarating way to explore the Arctic landscape. This two-hour excursion is tailored for all skill levels, with guides ensuring that the group moves at a comfortable pace, accommodating the slowest driver. To take the wheel, participants must be 18+ and hold a valid driver’s license, with each snowmobile shared between two riders. Children 13+ or at least 140cm tall can sit as passengers, while younger or smaller children are safely pulled along in a heated sleigh, allowing families to enjoy the adventure together. For younger thrill-seekers, the kids‘ snowmobile circuit located near the restaurant offers an exciting taste of motor sports in a safe and controlled environment. Watching them experience their own mini Arctic adventure adds an extra layer of fun to the excursion. Snowmobiling in Saariselkä offers the perfect blend of speed, stunning scenery, and an unforgettable way to navigate the pristine Lapland wilderness.

Igloo Sauna & Hot Tub

If there’s one activity that truly defines relaxation in Lapland, it’s the sauna and hot tub experience—and it quickly became one of my personal highlights! We had private use for an hour, which made the experience feel even more special. With access to a changing room, shower, and toilet, everything was designed for complete convenience. The sauna itself was a dream—offering a breathtaking view through a large sky window, making it easy to lose yourself in the serene beauty of the Arctic. And then, the perfect transition: stepping outside into the hot tub, surrounded by the crisp Lapland air, creating the most incredible contrast of warmth and cold. There’s truly nothing quite like sinking into soothing hot water, and simply soaking in the moment. I think it’s safe to say this is one of my absolute favourite things to do—can you tell?

Reindeer Express

This gentle and enchanting excursion was a perfect way to experience the serene beauty of Lapland. Seated two per sleigh, wrapped snugly in blankets for warmth, we embarked on a peaceful ride through the snow-covered forests, led by a guide who walked at the front, gently guiding the reindeer along the winding trails. Unlike the high-speed thrill of snowmobiles or husky sledding, this was a wonderfully slow-paced and relaxing journey—an ideal experience for young children or anyone looking to soak in the magic of the Arctic landscape at a leisurely pace. We were fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of an Arctic Hare, delightful sight that added to the charm of the experience.

Cross Country Skiing

For my husband and children, the two-hour guided Cross-Country Skiing lesson turned into an exclusive experience—they were the only ones in the group! This allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the lesson and make their way to the stunning Urho Kekkonen National Park, where they had the chance to explore the well-maintained ski trails winding through the Arctic wilderness. While I admired their determination, I have to admit—I was a little too chicken to take part! Watching them glide effortlessly, I quickly realized that cross-country skiers move much faster than I had expected. It’s a sport that requires stamina, balance, and technique, making it an exciting yet challenging adventure through Lapland’s serene landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a complete beginner, cross-country skiing offers a thrilling yet peaceful way to experience the Arctic—if you’re brave enough to give it a go!

Urho Kekkonen National Park

Nestled within Urho Kekkonen National Park, the second-largest national park in Finland, Saariselkä is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an incredible variety of ways to explore its breathtaking landscape. Visitors can choose to hike on foot, cycle through scenic trails, embark on snowshoe adventures, or glide along numerous ski tracks that wind through the pristine Arctic wilderness. One of the park’s unique features is its illuminated nighttime cross-country ski trail, allowing skiers to experience the tranquility of Lapland’s snowy terrain under a star-lit sky. Despite being a popular destination for outdoor activities, Saariselkä offers plenty of opportunities to escape into true solitude and wilderness, making it a dream location for nature lovers. To grasp the scale of this incredible park, it stretches all the way to the Russian border, roughly 40km away, providing endless space to explore and disconnect from the modern world.

Saariselka Ski & Sport Village Saariselkä is home to Finland’s longest toboggan run, stretching just under 2km, providing the ultimate downhill thrill. This year, 2025, it even hosted the World Championships, proving just how exhilarating and competitive this winter activity can be! For those looking to switch up their snow adventures, Saariselkä also offers downhill skiing, making it a fantastic destination for winter sports enthusiasts. But where was I while all this action was happening? Curled up with a hot chocolate—topped with cream and marshmallows—in the onsite restaurant, watching the excitement unfold from the warmest, cosiest spot in town! Sometimes, the best winter activities involve nothing more than a delicious drink and a perfect view.

Ten Pin Bowling Saariselka

While the Northern Lights Village winds down early unless you're booked on an excursion, we found a lively way to spend our evenings—at Ten Pin Bowling Saariselkä! Beyond traditional bowling, this spot offers plenty of additional activities, including an Escape Room, Snooker, and Pool, making it a fantastic place to unwind after a day in the Arctic wilderness. One of our favorite traditions quickly became our family Publympics, where we’d compete in Air Hockey, Darts, and Pinball—though I must admit, I was no Pinball Wizard! It was the perfect way to cap off our nights with laughter, friendly competition, and a little extra excitement before heading back to our cosy cabin.