8 Truly Unique Stays In Lapland That You’ll Love

Planning a trip to Lapland? The region’s endless forests, glittering snowfields, and shimmering auroras already feel magical on their own—but the right place to rest your head can turn a good adventure into an unforgettable story.

You can find incredible places to stay no matter if you’re traveling as a family, as a couple, or on a tighter budget.

Whether you’re dreaming of a tiny wooden cabin tucked deep in the woods, a night under a glass‑roofed sky, or even a private island surrounded by pristine waters, Lapland offers a range of one‑of‑a‑kind accommodations that won’t necessarily empty your wallet.

We’ve handpicked 8 of the most unique stays in Lapland that we think you’ll absolutely love—each one offering something different, from deep relaxation to bucket-list adventure.

⭐ Pro Tip—Shoulder-Season Savings: November and March/April still give good aurora chances, but rates drop 20–40% versus the Christmas rush.

1. Aino Private Island – Rovaniemi

Best for: Deep relaxation, couples‑only retreats, and anyone craving total privacy
Budget range: $$$$ – luxury experience
Where: Just outside Rovaniemi, on a secluded private island

If you’ve ever dreamed of having an entire island all to yourself, this is your chance. The Aino Private Island near Rovaniemi offers the kind of exclusivity you rarely find in the Arctic. Accessible only by boat (or snowmobile in winter), this stay is designed to make you feel like Lapland belongs entirely to you and offers complete privacy in a breathtaking setting.

What makes it unique

The accommodation here is intimate and adults-only—making it especially perfect for couples or travelers seeking peace.

Interiors are tastefully done, mixing rustic Lapland charm with modern touches. Meals (both breakfast and dinner) are included, and the menu is built around local Finnish ingredients, so you can expect warming dishes after a day in the cold.

What makes this truly special is the pace of life. Days here are slow and intentional.

You can take part in classic winter activities like snowshoeing and ice fishing or simply cozy up by the fire. And because there’s no light pollution, northern lights viewing from the island feels like your own private show.

But the real luxury is simply slowing down. With no neighbors, no traffic, and no distractions, you can fully disconnect.

Practical tips

• How to get there: Fly into Rovaniemi Airport and arrange transfers directly with the property—they’ll organize the final boat or snowmobile leg.
• Best time to visit: Winter (December–March) for snowy landscapes and auroras or summer (June–August) for the midnight sun and peaceful lake views. Bear in mind, the resort was closed in the summer of 2025 for full remodeling and is opening again on 1. November 2025
• Booking tip: Because it’s small and exclusive, it books up fast. If you want to enjoy the luxury at a discounted price, think about booking in November or March-April.

Cons

The exclusivity comes at a price, so it’s definitely on the higher end of the budget scale. Also, if you’re someone who prefers lots of activities, shops, and nightlife nearby, the remoteness might feel too quiet.

2. SkyView Igloos Resort—Rovaniemi

Best for: luxury seekers, architecture aficionados, and anyone who wants a private sauna and jacuzzi under the stars.
Budget range: $$$$$—high-end luxury
Where: Perched on a hill overlooking the Arctic Circle, 10 minutes from Rovaniemi’s downtown

If you’re after a unique stay with a touch of extravagance, the SkyView Igloos in Rovaniemi are hard to beat. They are two-storey, 50 m² glass-roof suites designed for Northern Lights viewing.

What makes it unique

The SkyView Igloos combines avant‑garde design with indulgent amenities. Its most striking feature is the transparent dome roof that offers an open view of the sky—perfect for aurora spotting without ever leaving the warmth of your suite.

The floor-to-ceiling glass walls and unique architecture make you feel part of the landscape.

The igloo’s interior features reclaimed driftwood furniture, soft fur throws, and ambient LED lighting that mimics the natural rhythm of the Arctic twilight.

Each igloo also features a private spa area consisting of a private sauna and jacuzzi on the second floor, next to the bedroom. The jacuzzi is placed on the balcony, allowing you to soak under the night sky.

Each morning, a gourmet breakfast basket (fresh pastries, smoked fish, berry compote, and hot coffee) is delivered directly to your suite.

Guests often describe the experience as “sleeping in a snow globe”—luxurious, intimate, and utterly unforgettable.

It’s the kind of place where every detail feels designed for indulgence. Watching the northern lights from your jacuzzi? Yes, please!

Practical tips

• How to get there: Just a short drive from Rovaniemi Airport. Taxis or arranged transfers are easy.
• Best time to visit: December–March for auroras, though autumn is quieter and still beautiful.
• Booking tip: SkyView Igloos are very popular during peak aurora season (December–March), so book well in advance if you want specific dates.

Cons

It’s definitely pricey and sells out quickly during the Christmas season. But for a splurge, it’s unforgettable.

⭐ Pro Tip—Plan a Mid‑Week Stay: Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are 15–25% cheaper than weekend nights, and the resort is less crowded, giving you more privacy on the balcony.

3. Kelo Resort – Levi

Best for: Northern lights and nature lovers
Budget range: $$$—upper mid-range to luxury
Where: Yli-Kyrö village, close to Levi, near Kittilä Airport

Levi is one of Finland’s most famous ski resorts, known for skiing and nightlife, but Kelo Resort offers something different: a retreat in the middle of an ancient forest.

It is tucked away in the small village of Yli-Kyrö, right at the border of one of Finland’s largest national parks. The resort is surrounded by vast fell landscapes, peaceful forests, and traditional Lapland villages that feel like they belong to another time.

Here, there are no crowds, no rush—just nature, silence, and space to breathe. In fact, Kelo Resort is the only hotel of that caliber in the area, making it a truly unique place to stay.

What makes it unique

Kelo Resort is particularly famous for its surroundings. Imagine towering snow-covered trees, clear skies without light pollution, and a front-row seat to the northern lights.

⭐ Pro Tip – Aurora Forecast App: Download the “AuroraAlert!” App. The resort also checks the KP‑index nightly and can ping you when conditions are prime.

At the heart of the resort’s story is the kelo pine itself. A kelo is an ancient pine tree that has stood for centuries, slowly transformed by the Arctic winds and the midnight sun into a silver-gray sculpture of wood.

Kelo Resort embraces this tradition. The hotel is built with natural materials and designed to blend into its surroundings, offering a cozy and atmospheric interior while keeping the focus on the stunning views outside your window.

Each room is a peaceful retreat—the kind of place where you wake up, look out, and instantly feel connected to the wilderness.

What makes staying here extra special is that you don’t need to go far for adventure—it’s all on your doorstep. The resort organizes a wide range of activities like snowmobile or husky safaris and Northern Lights tours.

The resort also offers different packages depending on what you’re looking for. Some include full board (so all meals are taken care of), while others are tailored for travelers seeking pure adventure or, alternatively, total peace and quiet.

Whichever you choose, free airport transfers are always included, so arriving is stress-free.

Practical tips

• How to get there: The nearest airport is Kittilä. Free transfers to and from the airport are included in your stay.
• Best time to visit: Winter (December–March) is magical for snow activities and northern lights, while autumn (September–October) offers colorful “ruska” scenery and quieter trails.
• Booking tip: Packages vary widely, so think about what kind of holiday you want—active adventure or peaceful retreat—and book accordingly.

Cons

Because it’s the only hotel in the area, dining and entertainment options are centered on the resort itself. If you’re after nightlife or shops, this isn’t the place—but if you’re after nature and authenticity, it’s exactly what you’re looking for.

4. Northern Lights Village – Levi

Best for: Aurora spotting under the stars
Budget range: $$–$$$
Where: Levi, tucked away from town

This is one of the most famous stays in Lapland—and for good reason. At Northern Lights Village, you sleep under heated glass roofs designed for maximum sky-gazing.

What makes it unique

The cabins combine the coziness of a log cabin with the thrill of sleeping under the night sky. The glass is heated so it never frosts over, meaning you can stargaze in comfort. And since the resort is set away from Levi’s lights, your aurora chances are high.

Meals are included, and you can book plenty of activities like husky safaris, snowmobiling, or reindeer rides right from the reception. But honestly, the biggest activity here is simply lying in bed and watching the sky.

Practical tips

• How to get there: Levi is about 15 minutes by taxi from Kittilä Airport. The resort can arrange transfers.
• Best time to visit: December–March is peak aurora season, though autumn (Sept–Oct) can also be stunning.
• Booking tip: Choose a half-board or full-board package so you don’t have to worry about meals—options in the area are limited.

Cons

This is a popular resort, so it can feel less private. Prices can vary depending on the season, and in peak aurora times it can be quite pricey.

5. Yurt District – Rovaniemi

Best for: Authentic wilderness experiences, solo travelers, and those who love a touch of nomadic charm.
Budget range: $–$$—more budget-friendly
Where: Hilltop near Rovaniemi

If you’re drawn to experiences that feel personal, quirky, and a little adventurous, Yurt District near Rovaniemi is a wonderful choice.

This boutique glamping spot is proudly local and independently owned, offering a small-scale, intimate atmosphere that couldn’t be further from mass tourism.

What makes it unique

The Yurt District uses authentic Mongolian gers (yurts), handmade in Ulaanbaatar and adapted for Arctic conditions.

Each yurt is insulated, heated, and decorated with a modern Scandinavian–Lapland style. Some even feature glass roofs, letting you stargaze or watch the northern lights while lying in bed.

There are just a handful of yurts here, which means every guest gets personal attention. The owners pride themselves on creating a sense of place that blends Lapland heritage with a spirited, modern vibe.

Guests can also purchase some of the décor items directly from the yurts—so if you fall in love with a blanket or lantern, you can take a little piece of Lapland home.

You can choose between two different types of yurt experiences:

Riverside Yurts

• Located by the Ounasjoki River with peaceful Arctic Circle views
• Cozy, fully insulated, and decorated with Scandinavian charm
• Glass roof for stargazing and aurora watching
• Shared new shower and toilet block nearby
• Outdoor open fire grill area for cooking and socializing
• Optional wood-heated sauna (extra cost)

Hilltop Yurt

• Perched on a forest hill in the middle of wilderness—accessible only by ATV or snowmobile
• Extremely quiet and secluded, surrounded by pure nature
• No shower or toilet (a true wilderness stay!)
• Cozy and warm interior with modern Scandinavian touches
• Optional wooden sauna experience (5 km away, transfers included in the sauna price)
• Phone and WiFi available if you need to connect with the outside world

Practical tips

• How to get there: Both yurt options are about 25 km from Rovaniemi. The Hilltop Yurt requires ATV or snowmobile transport, which is arranged by the hosts.
• Best time to visit: Winter (December–March) for a magical snowy adventure and northern lights, though summer has its own charm with long days and riverside evenings.
• Booking tip: Decide first whether you want more comfort (Riverside) or more wilderness (Hilltop). The Hilltop is best for adventurous couples; the Riverside is more versatile for friends or small groups.

Cons

The yurts are rustic by nature—don’t expect luxury amenities. The Hilltop Yurt in particular has no bathroom facilities, which isn’t for everyone. But if you’re looking for a unique, offbeat Lapland experience, Yurt District delivers it in spades.

6. Kotatieva Resort – Rovaniemi

Best for: Families and anyone who loves a true forest escape.
Budget range: $$—mid-range, family-friendly
Where: Located on the outskirts of Rovaniemi, where the paved road literally ends amid dense pine forest.

⭐ Pro Tip—Use the Free Shuttle: Skip renting a car; the complimentary shuttle runs daily to Rovaniemi city center and Santa Claus Village.

If you’re traveling with kids (or if you’re just young at heart), Kotatieva Resort is one of the most magical places to stay near Rovaniemi.

Imagine cozy wooden cottages tucked in the forest, paired with an entire playground of winter activities right outside your door.

What makes it unique

The cottages are tucked deep into the forest, so you really feel like you’ve reached the end of the road—quite literally.

But what makes Kotatieva stand out is its winter leisure park. As a guest, you also receive one full-day ticket per person included in your stay.

One of its highlights is the 500-meter natural skating trail through the snowy forest—a true Lapland fairytale.Skating along winding paths surrounded by frosted trees feels like gliding through a scene from a winter storybook.

The resort also offers optional activities like guided snowshoeing tours or a traditional wooden sauna experience.The accommodations feel homey and welcoming, with everything you need to warm up after a day outside.

What’s more, Kotatieva makes logistics incredibly easy. Free airport transfers are included, and there’s also a daily free shuttle for cabin guests to Rovaniemi city center and Santa Claus Village.

That means you can skip the rental car if you prefer—everything you need is either onsite or just a shuttle away.

We love that you get the best of both worlds here: peaceful nature and lots of fun. Plus, Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village are still just a short drive away if you want more activities.

Practical tips

• How to get there: Kotatieva is about 20 minutes from Rovaniemi Airport and Rovaniemi city center, and with the free transfers, you don’t need a car.
• Best time to visit: December to March for winter activities
• Booking tip: Reserve early for school holiday weeks—families love it here, and it sells out quickly.

Cons

It’s a family-friendly resort, so it can be lively and full of energy. If you’re after total solitude, this might not be your best match. But for families or groups of friends, it’s absolutely perfect.

7. Wilderness Hotel Inari – Inari

Best for: Remote, off‑grid adventures, nature photographers, and anyone who wants to truly disconnect.
Budget range: $$–$$$
Where: Set on the banks of Lake Inari, accessible via a short flight from Helsinki to Ivalo Airport followed by a scenic 45‑minute drive.

If you’re looking for a truly remote Lapland experience, head north to Inari. The Wilderness Hotel Inari is part of a small chain of ultra‑remote lodges scattered across the far north.

Each property is built from local timber and stone, blending seamlessly into the tundra landscape.

What makes it unique

Set on the shores of Lake Inari, this hotel feels like a true escape. In winter, the lake freezes solid—perfect for snowmobiling or aurora chasing across the ice. In summer, it’s peaceful and bathed in endless daylight.

Despite its remote feel, you can reach Inari fairly easily via connections through Helsinki.

The hotel offers a range of accommodation types—from cozy log cabins to glass-roof aurora cabins.

Activities like reindeer safaris, snowmobiling, or cross-country skiing are available.

⭐ Pro Tip – Bundle Activity Packages: The hotel offers different bundles. Buying a bundle (e.g., Culture + Reindeer Safari) is usually 10–15% cheaper than purchasing separately.

You can also join cultural experiences with the Sámi people, which adds depth to your trip.

Because the hotel is remote, the staff often act as personal guides, helping you plan everything from husky‑sledding routes to photography workshops.

Practical tips

• How to get there: Fly to Ivalo Airport, then take a 45-minute transfer north to Inari. Direct flights connect Ivalo with Helsinki daily and year-round. The hotel can arrange your transfer.
• Best time to visit: For auroras, November–March. For cultural activities and hiking, June–August.
• Booking tip: Combine your stay with one of their activity packages—it’s often cheaper than booking everything separately.

Cons

Because of its remoteness, there are limited transport options once you arrive. Food and activities are mostly centered at the hotel, so you won’t have much variety outside of what they offer.

8. Arctic Snow Hotel & Glass Igloos – Rovaniemi

Best for: A one-night bucket list experience
Budget range: $$–$$$
Where: Rovaniemi

If you’ve ever wanted to sleep on ice, here’s your chance. The Arctic Snow Hotel in Rovaniemi is rebuilt every year entirely out of snow and ice—from the walls to the beds to the decorations.

What makes it unique

Step into a world where walls, beds, and even the bar are sculpted from pure ice. The Snow Hotel offers ice rooms (no doors, no en‑suite bathrooms) that maintain a constant -5 °C (23 °F) temperature—cold enough to keep the ice solid but warm enough for a comfortable night’s sleep with proper thermal gear.

The hotel offers different amenities, but some of the most memorable ones are the Ice Sauna and the Ice Bar, where you can sip a cocktail from a glass also made of frozen water.

You can also have dinner in their Ice Restaurant. While the food isn’t Michelin‑starred, the novelty of dining on a table of ice while your beer stays perfectly chilled adds a memorable twist.

Most guests stay just one night in the Snow Hotel, then move into the glass igloos in the same resort. The igloos have ensuite bathrooms, heated glass roofs, and much more comfort—so you get the novelty of ice and the coziness of glass.

They give you the northern lights experience without the chilly toes.

The Snow Hotel is especially popular for couples looking for a “once‑in‑a‑lifetime” night, as well as groups wanting a quirky photo backdrop.

Practical tips

• How to get there: About 30 minutes from Rovaniemi Airport; transfers are available.
• Best time to visit: December–March (the Snow Hotel melts in spring).
• Booking tip: Book one night in the Snow Hotel, then a few nights in the igloos for balance.

Cons

The ice rooms lack privacy (no doors) and require thermal sleeping bags. The snow restaurant is atmospheric, but the food isn’t as special as the setting. Prices for meals and drinks can be steep compared to regular restaurants.

How to Choose the Right Stay for Your Lapland Adventure

1. Define Your Core Goal—Are you chasing the Northern Lights, seeking family fun, or craving total isolation?
2. Consider Travel Logistics—Some locations (like Inari) require extra flights or longer drives, while others (Kotatieva, Snow Hotel) are easily reachable from Rovaniemi’s airport.
3. Set a Budget Ceiling—Most properties fall between €110 and €480 per night; remember to factor in meals, activities, and transportation. Consider traveling during the shoulder season (November, February-April) if you are on a tighter budget.
4. Check Seasonal Availability—Peak aurora months (December–February) fill up fast, especially for glass‑roofed or ice‑based accommodations.

By matching your priorities with the unique strengths of each stay, you’ll create a Lapland itinerary that feels tailor‑made for you.

Final Thoughts

Lapland’s magic isn’t just in its snowy landscapes or dazzling auroras—it’s also in the places you call home for a night (or several). From secluded islands that whisper serenity to glass‑capped igloos that bring the heavens inside, each of these seven stays offers a distinct flavor of Arctic hospitality.

Pick the one (or a combination) that aligns with your travel style, book early—especially for the glass‑roofed and ice‑based options—and prepare for a journey that will linger in your memory long after the snow melts.

Happy travels, and may the Northern Lights guide you to the perfect stay!

Frequently Asked Questions About Unique Stays in Lapland