If you’re dreaming of wide-open slopes, untouched nature, and magical Arctic experiences, Ylläs Ski Resort in Finnish Lapland should be at the top of your list. Known for having Finland’s largest ski area (63 slopes), Ylläs combines world-class skiing with bucket-list winter activities — all under the glow of the Northern Lights.
❄️ Reliable snow from November to late April !
Here’s exactly how I got to Ylläs, where I stayed, and the winter activities I experienced, so you can plan your own trip.
How I Got to Ylläs, Finland
I flew to Kittilä Airport, which is the closest airport to Ylläs and serves direct winter flights from several European cities. From the airport, Ylläs is about a 40-minute drive, and transfers are straightforward.
I chose a pre-booked bus transfer (17€), but renting a car is also a great option if you want flexibility.
Getting Around
For activities without included transfers, we used a local taxi, which cost around €25 for a 5-minute ride for up to 6 people — affordable when shared.
For most booked activities like reindeers safaris or Northern Lights tours, hotel pick-up was included, which made things very easy. Because of this, it’s best to decide before your trip what transportation you want to rely on.
You’ll need some form of transport in Ylläs to get to restaurants, shops, and between villages, especially in winter. We found that combining guided tours with occasional taxis worked good.
Where I Stayed in Ylläs
I stayed in Ylläs Chalet 8208, and honestly, it was was everything we needed: a comfortable apartment with a kitchen and a private sauna. It also had a ski storage box, which made it easy to store our skis after a day on the slopes. For skiing and sharing with friends, it offered great value for money.
If you’re looking for more comfort or hotel-style services, you can also stay at the Lapland Hotels Saaga.
Skiing at Ylläs Ski Resort
You come to Ylläs for the skiing — but you stay for the views. Fluffy snow blankets everything, the forests feel endless, and there’s a deep sense of peace and natural beauty everywhere. Skiing here isn’t just about the runs; it’s about moving through silence, space, and some of the most beautiful winter landscapes I’ve ever seen.
I was really impressed by how well-maintained the slopes were. We visited in late January to early February, a quieter period, and there were no queues at all — skiing felt calm and effortless. The runs are wide, long, and surrounded by forest, which makes the whole experience even better.
Temperatures were cold, mostly between –25°C and –15°C, so dressing properly was essential. I’ve written a separate article on what to pack for skiing in Lapland, which you can read here if you’re planning a similar trip.
The slopes are generally open from 10:00 to 17:00 or 19:00, depending on the day. We paid around €170 for a 5–7 day ski pass (there was an offer at the time of our visit), which also includes access to the ski bus connecting both sides of the mountain — super convenient and easy to use.
Winter Activities I Did near Ylläs
One of the best things about winter in Ylläs is that skiing is only part of the experience.
Northern Lights Hunting
Seeing the Northern Lights in Finland was high on my list, but it’s important to know that they’re never guaranteed. We only saw them briefly, and very faintly. Before going, I didn’t fully realize how much weather conditions matter — things like fog, cloud cover, and even a full moon can seriously affect visibility.
I’d definitely recommend checking the forecast in advance to maximize your chances. Even though we didn’t get a full aurora show, we still managed to take some really cool night photos, which made the experience special in its own way.
We went with a guide from Safartica (about €120 / person), who was very nice, making the experience even more enjoyable. He even took some pretty photos of us with a laser.
Reindeer Farm & Sleigh Ride
We booked our reindeer farm and sleigh ride with Northwind Lapland (about €170 / person), and it was such a wonderful experience! Our guide was very nice and helpful, and you could tell they were truly passionate about reindeer.
The animals were absolutely adorable, and we even got to feed them, which made the experience extra special. Gliding through the snowy landscape in the sleigh while learning about traditions was peaceful, magical, and a lovely contrast to the skiing days.
Snow Village in Ylläs
We also visited the Snow Village, which was full of amazing ice and snow sculptures, and even had a slide made entirely out of ice — so much fun! The entrance ticket was €26, and it was definitely worth it. Walking through the frosty halls and seeing all the detailed sculptures made it feel like stepping into a winter wonderland. It’s a great activity for both kids and adults, and perfect for capturing some unique photos.
My Favorite Restaurant
One of my favorite spots in Ylläs was the restaurant Otso. The atmosphere was cozy, and the food was amazing. I especially loved the reindeer burger paired with a hot red berry juice — all for about €25 in total.
If you’re visiting Ylläs, I’d definitely recommend stopping by Otso for a meal after a day on the slopes.
Conclusion: Why Ylläs Is Worth Visiting
Ylläs is more than just a ski resort — it’s a place to experience peaceful snowy landscapes, magical winter activities, and Finnish Lapland charm, nothing like I’ve experienced before. From skiing on well-maintained slopes, exploring the Snow Village, meeting reindeer, to chasing the Northern Lights, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s very doable. I stayed for 7 nights, skied, and did three activities, all for under €1,500, including flights, accommodation, and food. Whether you’re chasing adventure, nature, or just a serene winter escape, Ylläs offers an unforgettable Arctic experience.
I can’t wait to come back here soon!
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