Saariselkä is a place where fells, silence and active outdoor life meet. Arctic Villa Aava is located on the southern slopes of Kaunispää — surrounded by nature, yet close to everything.
Saariselkä
Saariselkä is known for its gentle fells, vast landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. The village offers a wide range of services, restaurants and shops within walking distance.
Saariselkä serves as a gateway to Urho Kekkonen National Park and draws hikers, skiers, cyclists and those simply seeking peace — in every season.
Kaunispää – To the Top and Down by Sledge
Kaunispää is Saariselkä’s most well-known fell and an easy destination on foot, on skis or by chairlift. From the summit, sweeping views open across the fell landscape — a view that changes with the seasons.
In winter, Finland’s longest toboggan run starts from Kaunispää, offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience for all ages. The toboggan run is a local classic and one of Saariselkä’s most beloved winter experiences.
Winter & Spring in Lapland
In winter, Saariselkä transforms into another world. The fells are covered in snow, the cold sharpens the air and at its darkest, the sky ignites with the northern lights — green, violet, sometimes red. The polar night brings its own quiet atmosphere: blue light, a sky full of stars and a silence you can almost hear. Ski tracks begin practically at the door.
Spring is something else entirely. The sun returns with force, the snow glows and light hits the fells from an angle seen at no other time of year. The snow still holds during ski season, but there is already that feeling in the air — that something is waking up.
Summer & Autumn in Lapland
In summer, Saariselkä offers hiking trails, crystal-clear swimming spots and the light of the midnight sun. In autumn, the fells glow in shades of ruska and nature invites quiet walks and gentle hikes. The closeness of nature and the sense of space make summer and autumn a particularly peaceful counterpoint to everyday life.
Ivalo, Inari & Northern Lapland
Ivalo serves as the area’s service hub and is home to Finland’s northernmost airport. Inari is the centre of Sámi culture, where the Siida museum and Lake Inari offer a unique window into northern life and history.
Those venturing further north can continue for a day trip to Nuorgam, Finland’s northernmost village, where the landscape opens towards the Teno River valley and the Arctic nature is particularly striking.
A Peaceful Base for Lapland Experiences
Arctic Villa Aava serves as a peaceful base for exploring Saariselkä and all of Lapland. After a day out, it is easy to return to the shelter of the fells, to silence and your own space — a place where the pace slows and nature is always present.
Explore accommodation at Arctic Villa Aava.