Discover the unique atmosphere, landscapes and experiences of each Lapland destination
Lapland is a land of contrasts: wide-open fells, deep forests, shimmering snowfields and star-filled skies that come alive with the northern lights. Every destination has its own character — from peaceful wilderness and authentic village life to world-class outdoor trails and iconic Arctic adventures. To help you find the perfect experiences for your stay, we’ve curated activity guides for each of the four Laplandway centres. Choose your destination below and explore the best guided adventures and self-guided moments Lapland has to offer.
Luosto
Luosto is where Lapland slows down. Surrounded by the ancient, deep-green forests of Pyhä–Luosto National Park, this small fell village feels timeless — a place where silence is soft, the air is crisp and the landscape opens gently toward the fells. Here, nature always feels close: the creak of snow under your boots, the glow of a fire reflected on snowbanks, and some of the darkest skies in Finland, where the northern lights weave across the horizon. Activities in Luosto blend seamlessly with its peaceful character. Husky trails, snowmobile routes, and aurora viewpoints begin just beyond the forest line, while the iconic Lampivaara Amethyst Mine sits high on a fell, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the geology of the north. Luosto’s atmosphere is warm, authentic, and intimate — the ideal destination for travellers seeking a premium yet understated Arctic experience, wrapped in the quiet magic of wilderness.
Saariselkä
Saariselkä sits at the edge of Urho Kekkonen National Park, one of Europe’s last true wilderness areas — a vast expanse of rolling fells, untouched valleys and big, open skies. This is Lapland at its grandest: endless horizons, crisp Arctic air and a feeling of space that releases the mind and invites adventure. This region is famous for its exceptional northern light conditions — wide, unobstructed views and minimal light pollution mean the aurora can appear like a curtain falling from the sky. Husky safaris, snowmobile journeys across the fells, snowshoe adventures and guided aurora hunts all draw their power from the surrounding wilderness. And for travellers seeking depth, Saariselkä offers meaningful cultural encounters, with easy access to Sámi heritage sites, traditional storytelling and the celebrated Siida Museum in nearby Inari. Saariselkä combines wilderness energy with comfort and ease, making it a destination where adventure and serenity flow naturally between each other.
Ylläs
Ylläs is a paradise for nature lovers — and for anyone who wants to experience Lapland with a sense of freedom and movement. Bordering Pallas–Yllästunturi National Park, Finland’s most beloved national park, Ylläs offers some of the purest air in Europe and a spectacular network of trails that stretch across forests, wetlands, open fells and sweeping valleys. The mood in Ylläs is open, airy and energising. The fells rise gently, the forests feel endless and the landscape invites you to explore at your own pace. Though guided activities will be added later, Ylläs already excels in self-guided experiences: breathtaking snowshoe routes, atmospheric forest walks, world-class cross-country skiing, aurora viewing spots with wide northern skies, and cosy fire huts dotted along the trails. Ylläs is the ideal destination for guests who love the feeling of discovering Lapland under their own power — step by step, kilometre by kilometre — wrapped in the quiet rhythm of nature.
Suomu
Suomutunturi is where Lapland becomes deeply personal — a place of lakeside silence, steady forests and a single graceful fell rising above the landscape. It offers a rare balance: easy access to classic Arctic activities and the peace of staying somewhere wonderfully uncrowded, wrapped in authentic Lapland stillness. One of Suomutunturi’s greatest strengths is its location. From here, you’re perfectly positioned to explore several of Lapland’s most breathtaking protected areas: Salla National Park – a pristine wilderness of fells and ancient forests Riisitunturi National Park – famous for its snow-laden “tykky” trees and open fell scenery Oulanka National Park – home to the legendary Karhunkierros trail and dramatic river canyons Korouoma Canyon – a unique gorge with spectacular winter ice formations These natural landmarks make Suomutunturi an exceptional base for travellers who love scenery, photography, hiking, snowshoeing and meaningful encounters with raw Nordic nature. At the same time, Suomutunturi connects effortlessly to husky safaris, snowmobile tours, reindeer visits and aurora adventures through trusted regional partners. The atmosphere remains peaceful: frozen lakes ideal for aurora watching, quiet forest trails for self-guided exploration and the kind of silence that settles into your memory. Many travellers begin their journey with a visit to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, making Suomutunturi the perfect next chapter — a gentle transition from festive excitement to the deep calm of the wilderness.
