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The moment you step onto the snowy grounds of Kittilä Airport, your ultimate winter adventure begins. Welcome to Finland, a land where Lapland reveals its most magical side. The air is crisp and pure, the landscape blanketed in glistening white, and a serene silence surrounds you, broken only by the gentle crunch of snow underfoot. In the heart of Finnish Lapland, Levi and Ylläs await, two destinations where winter wonder, wellness, and adventure come together. Here, it’s all about immersing yourself, savoring every moment, and simply relaxing: from the first snowflake to the comforting warmth of a traditional Finnish sauna.
Why Levi and Ylläs belong on your bucket list
Imagine a world where forests, hills, and endless white plains shape the view. Here, winter is long, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are high, and the atmosphere is simply indescribable. Thanks to the direct KLM flight from Amsterdam to Kittilä Airport (Finavia), this dreamlike world is surprisingly within reach.
Lively atmosphere in Levi
In Levi, winter truly comes to life. The village radiates a cozy charm, with quaint streets, twinkling lights, and the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon buns filling the air. Everything is within easy reach, from trendy coffee bars to excellent restaurants and shops offering local specialties. But the real adventure begins the moment you step outside. Not only can you enjoy fantastic skiing and snowboarding on the illuminated slopes, but you can also choose from a wide range of winter activities in Levi. And after an active day? A warm sauna or luxurious spa awaits, where you can melt away the cold and fully unwind.
Peace, space and pure nature in Ylläs
Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi are the most well-known villages in Ylläs. Here, it’s all about peace, space, and nature. You’ll gaze out over vast landscapes, frozen lakes, and quiet forests. Ylläs borders the impressive Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, where you can enjoy endless hiking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. Experience wellness in a pure and authentic way by staying in wooden cabins with a private sauna, taking a dip in an outdoor plunge pool, and visiting a traditional smoke sauna that heats up slowly. In charming Ylläs, it’s easy to unwind and simply enjoy the tranquility.
Top activities for an unforgettable winter in Lapland
If you book a winter getaway to the north right now, what unique experiences await you? Let us show you!
1. Skiing and cross-country skiing (for all levels)
In the village of Levi, you can fully enjoy the charmingly illuminated slopes, catering to both beginners and experienced skiers. In Ylläs, you’ll find the largest cross-country skiing paradise in Finland, with hundreds of kilometers of trails winding through magical, serene forests.
2. Snowshoeing and husky safari
For those who truly want to connect with nature, nothing compares to a snowshoe hike through the fairytale landscapes of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park or a husky safari across the pristine white wilderness. All you hear is the crunch of snow beneath your feet, you breathe in the fresh Lapland air, and with a bit of luck, you might spot reindeer or other wildlife. In our opinion, these are the experiences that make your Lapland adventure truly complete.
3. Snowmobiling, ice-karting and more adventure
Craving action? Experience the thrill of a high-speed snowmobile safari, test your skills on the ice with ice karting, or try your hand at ice fishing on a frozen lake. And for the true adventurers, Levi even offers winter swimming – an icy, unforgettable experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.
4. Finnish enjoyment in the sauna
After a day in the cold, nothing feels better than warming up in a sauna – and Finland is, of course, synonymous with them. In Levi, you’ll find luxurious spas and wellness centers, while Ylläs is famous for its authentic wooden saunas. The contrast between the icy outdoors and the soothing warmth offers pure relaxation and the ultimate laid-back Lapland experience.
5. Taste the local gastronomy
Eating in Lapland is an experience in itself! Be surprised by local specialties such as tender reindeer meat, freshly caught fish from the clear lakes and sweet berries growing in the forests in summer. Many chefs in Levi work with local farmers and fishermen, so you always taste the pure flavors of the region. Tip: end your day with a Lapland drink by the fireplace or discover cozy après-ski in one of Levi's vibrant bars.
Ylläs' small village restaurants and wooden cabins are all about hospitality and homemade food. Think hearty stews, traditional fish soup and freshly baked bread, often served with a smile by the locals. Here you not only taste the food, but also the warmth and hospitality of Lapland itself. An evening dining out in Ylläs is an experience that takes you into the local traditions and flavors.
6. See the northern lights with your own eyes
From December to March in Lapland, your chances of witnessing the magical Northern Lights are high. The vast, dark landscapes around Levi and Ylläs provide the perfect backdrop for this dancing, colorful spectacle. Sometimes, you don’t even have to step outside – with a bit of luck, the enchanting green lights may appear in the sky right from the comfort of your cozy accommodation!
Practical tips for your Lapland adventure
A trip to Levi and Ylläs is a little different from a typical winter sports vacation, but that makes the adventure all the more fun. Book your KLM flight to Kittilä on time, as there is only one direct flight per week from Amsterdam (on Sundays). Since Levi and Ylläs are relatively close to each other, you can easily combine them for a varied trip full of new impressions.
Pack smart: layers are your best friend in Lapland! Thermal underwear, a warm sweater, waterproof jacket and padded boots will ensure that you are always comfortable on the trail. Many accommodations offer a private sauna, so don't forget your bathing suits for a relaxing moment after a day in the cold. Don't have everything you need at home for such an ultimate winter experience in Lapland? Everything can be arranged locally, and often the rental of extra protective clothing is also included in the tours.
Reserve popular activities, such as husky safaris or wellness, to avoid disappointment (especially in high season, it can be crowded). And finally, take the time to enjoy the peace, space and hospitality. After all, Lapland is all about relaxing and really experiencing!
Discover more travel inspiration for an unforgettable vacation to Finland
Curious about other seasons and regions in Finland? Then check out our other articles full of travel inspiration:
Autumn in the Finnish Lake District and Lake Saimaa: discover the fairytale fall colors, pick wild berries and enjoy wellness in Lakeland.
Winter in Lake Saimaa: a unique winter experience: yoga on the ice, snowshoe hikes and traditional Finnish saunas in winter.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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