Combine skiing on dramatic fells with an experience of charming Lappish culture in the remote village of Äkäslompolo, north of the Arctic Circle.
Witness the breathtaking beauty of Lapland’s landscapes in Äkäslompolo, a village beneath the popular skiing destination of Ylläs Ski ResortOpens in a new window. Mountains and forests here are covered in thick blankets of snow, beckoning visitors to enjoy a range of winter activities. This far-flung destination is equally appealing in summer, when you can roam across mountainous landscapes dotted with lakes.
The village is one of two in the Ylläs region, on the other side of the mountain from Ylläsjärvi. Visit the Kellokas Visitor Centre, outside Äkäslompolo’s village centre, to learn about the nature and history of the region. Here, find out about the range of activities you can enjoy during your stay in Äkäslompolo.
Strap on a pair of skis and hit the slopes of Ylläs, one of the largest downhill skiing destinations in Finland. Choose between 63 slopes for a range of abilities, including beginner trails for learning the basics.
Take part in other typical Lappish winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snowmobile riding and dog sledding. Several excursions run to remote points for watching the aurora borealis, the northern lights. Embrace the spirit of Christmas in Äkäslompolo and take a reindeer sleigh ride through the forests.
Come back in summer and canoe or kayak across Äkäslompolo Lake. Other summer activities include hiking through Pallas-Yllästunturi National ParkOpens in a new window and mountain biking down the trails of the fell. Äkäslompolo is north of the Arctic Circle, which means that in summer you can experience the thrilling natural phenomenon of the midnight sun.
Äkäslompolo has family-friendly attractions, such as Konijänkä’s Petting Zoo, where children can meet a variety of animals from Finland. The Varkaankuru Trail is an accessible hiking route for families who want to experience the landscape.
Fly to Kitilla Airport then take a bus to reach Äkäslompolo, which is about 30 miles (50 kilometres) away. The village is small enough to explore on foot and there are shuttle buses to the slopes. Äkäslompolo is a year-round destination, although it is particularly popular around Christmas time.
