Duration: 7 Days
Destination: Ylläs, Lapland, Finland
Ideal For: Snowboarders, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking unique Arctic experiences.

Nestled within the Arctic Circle, Ylläs offered us a thrilling blend of snowboarding, serene Arctic landscapes, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Over seven days, we immersed ourselves in the enchanting beauty of Lapland, combining adrenaline-fueled adventures with the magic of the snowy wilderness.

Snowboarding in Ylläs: Finland’s Premier Resort

Ylläs is renowned for being Finland’s largest ski and snowboard destination, and it lived up to its reputation:

• Slopes:

o Over 60 km of trails, ranging from beginner-friendly pistes to challenging red and black runs for advanced riders.

o Off-Piste and Freeriding: Untouched powder and tranquil tree runs made for incredible freeriding adventures.

• Snow Park: The terrain park with kickers and rails was a favorite for freestyle snowboarding.

• Night Riding: The illuminated slopes allowed us to carve through the snow even under the Arctic night sky.

Arctic Experiences Beyond the Slopes

A Night at the Snow Palace

• We spent one unforgettable night in the SnowVillage, a stunning palace sculpted entirely of ice and snow. The intricately carved snow suites were a work of art, with glowing ice furniture and snow sculptures.

• Highlights included: 

o A guided tour of the ice bar, ice chapel, and themed ice rooms.

o Snuggling into cozy thermal sleeping bags in the unique icy surroundings.

o A delicious dinner at the on-site ice restaurant, featuring reindeer and Arctic char.

Husky Safari and Reindeer Feeding

• Husky Safari:

o One morning, we took a thrilling husky sled ride through pristine snowfields and dense Arctic forests. The enthusiastic huskies, eager to race, made this an exhilarating and heartwarming experience.

o After the ride, we met the huskies up close and learned about their care from the handlers.

• Reindeer Encounter:

o At a traditional reindeer farm, we fed these gentle creatures and learned about their importance to Sámi culture.

o The peaceful sleigh ride through the snowy wilderness, pulled by a reindeer, felt like stepping into a fairy tale.

Sightseeing and Nature Activities

Northern Lights Chasing

• Ylläs is one of the best places in Finland to see the Aurora Borealis. Each evening, we ventured out into the Arctic wilderness to chase the lights.

• One magical night, we witnessed the skies come alive with vibrant green, pink, and purple hues dancing across the horizon.

Snowshoeing and Snowmobiling

• Snowshoeing: We explored untouched trails through Lapland’s serene snowy forests.

• Snowmobiling: A high-speed adventure took us across frozen lakes and Arctic tundra, with incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

Sauna and Ice Swimming

• After active days, we embraced the Finnish tradition of relaxing in a wood-heated sauna, followed by a daring plunge into an icy lake—refreshing and invigorating!

Accommodation Options

Luxury Options:

1. Lapland Hotel Saaga: A ski-in/ski-out resort offering panoramic views, a spa, and gourmet dining.

2. Aurora Estate: A boutique hotel with private saunas, perfect for a cozy and intimate Arctic retreat.

3. SnowVillage Igloos: Unique glass igloos for stargazing and Northern Lights viewing from the comfort of your bed.

Budget Options:
4. Ylläsjärvi Apartments: Comfortable self-catering units near the slopes, ideal for families or groups.
5. Hostel Ylläs: Affordable, with a warm atmosphere and communal spaces for mingling with other travelers.

Lapland Cuisine: Arctic Delights

We savored the best of Lapland’s local ingredients and hearty flavors:

• Luxury Dining:

1. Restaurant Aurora: Exquisite reindeer dishes and cloudberry desserts served with a modern twist.

2. Pihvikeisari: A fine-dining experience specializing in Arctic char and perfectly cooked steaks.

• Budget-Friendly Eats:
3. Café Rakka: A cozy spot for delicious soups, fresh pastries, and local treats.
4. Kota Grill: A laid-back eatery for classic Finnish dishes like sautéed reindeer (poronkäristys) and smoked salmon.

Why Visit Ylläs?

Our week in Ylläs was the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation:

• The snowboarding terrain was diverse and thrilling, suitable for all levels.

• Unique Arctic experiences like the Snow Palace stay, husky sledding, and reindeer encounters brought Lapland’s magic to life.

• Ylläs’s pristine location offered incredible opportunities to witness the Northern Lights and connect with the serene beauty of the Arctic.

Would we recommend Ylläs? Absolutely. Whether you’re a seasoned snowboarder or simply seeking a unique winter escape, Ylläs is a destination that delivers unforgettable memories.

Need help planning your Lapland adventure? Let me know! 😊