LAPLAND HOTELS WINTER-SUMMER 2013-2014

LAPLAND’S NATURE IS

WONDERFUL ALL YEAR ROUND

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EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTIFUL

Northern lights

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LAPLANDATTRACTS Holidaymakers

2 I ❤ Lapland

Summer is also an incredible

time for those of us who

live here in Lapland. Just

think about it, 24-hours of

sunshine, a pleasant tempe-

rature of 20-degrees, as well as the lush

nature. Proven to have the cleanest air in

Europe, as well as the fresh water of the

mountain streams that is fit for drinking.

Various safaris and high-quality

skiing opportunities are unique raw

materials for a holiday, as well as first

class food that is prepared from the pure

and aromatic bounty of the local nature.

The raw materials in Lapland are uni-

que, as they grow in Lapland under the

midnight sun during the summer and

amidst the demanding conditions of a

long winter.

Our most recognised food products

are also based on these unique raw ma-

terials. Our Head Chef Tero Mäntykan-

gas is an award-winning, ambassador

of modern Lappish cuisine in Finland.

In every our restaurant, you can experi-

ence the slightly different tones of Lap-

land, we respect the special characteris-

tics of each of our fell locations.

More nuanced Lappish cuisine can

be enjoyed in the capital of Lapland in

Rovaniemi, in the panorama restaurant

of Lapland Hotel Sky Ounasvaara.

Our aim is to provide our guests with

an easily obtainable overall holiday ex-

perience. You can customize your own

holiday via our online store and even

choose a deferred Check Out, a Lapland

delicacy package may await in your ho-

tel room, packed lunches for days out or

just a great northern lights safari.

A good night sleep will provide the

strength to experience the wide range

of experiences on offer. Superior ac-

commodation is also an important part

of a memorable holiday in Lapland. In

addition to the hotel rooms, our range is

rich in high quality holiday apartments

and traditional log cabins. A sauna be-

longs as a natural component in living

well, so all of the apartments and many

of the hotel rooms have their own priva-

te saunas.

The number of our international

guests has increased well in recent yea-

rs, we have understood that the attracti-

veness of Lapland will last and we have

developed matters for the interests of

our customers.

This encourages us to continue along

our chosen path and further develop

the abundant range of rec-

reational activities con-

nected to our hotel and

make them easy to use.

Welcome to the

Lapland fairytale world!

Genuine holiday experiences in Lapland

I Love Lapland Winter-spring 2013-2014 CHIEF EDITOR Ari Vuorentausta, Lapland Hotels EDITING AND PRODUCTION Managing editor Kari Martiala, Tel. 045 6757122, Omnipress Oy/Suomen Lehtiyhtymä, Mäkelänkatu 56, 00510 Helsinki, www.omnipress.fi, LAYOUT Joonas Kavasto/Hank, www.hank.fi PRINTING PunaMusta Oy, 2013 ADDRESS SOURCE DIRECT POSTING Lapland Hotels customer register, Business Id 2043922-1, Rajantie 20, 99300 Muonio, Tel. 016 3232, info@laplandhotels.comCOVER PHOTO Antti Pietikäinen

ARI VUORENTAUSTA MANAGING DIRECTOR

Contents 3 Lapland just the way you want it ‒ Join the Lapland Club

4 Explore the nature of Lapland

6 You see more when you are active

7 A bright, beautiful spring in the north

8 Seeking Lapland’s traditions

9 Enjoy the soft steam of a sauna

10 Restaurants with genuine flavours. Breakfast tables adorned with Lappish delicacies

11 Blog: After fish on Lake Inari

12 Experience the beautiful northern lights

13 Northern lights adventures

14 Multi-faceted Lapland

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THERE are scheduled daily flights from Helsinki to various airports in Lapland – to Enontekiö, Kittilä, Rovaniemi and Ivalo. The flight time from Helsinki to the locations in Lapland is around 1.5 hours. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport has two terminals, which are located about 250 metres apart and are connected by a covered hallway. For flights to Lapland, the flight operators SAS and Air 100 use ter-minal 1, whilst Finnair and Norwegian use terminal 2.

The airport has several shopping areas and close to one hundred service points. In several comparisons, the airport has consis-tently been placed in amongst the best air-ports in Europe.

SCHEDULED FLIGHTSFinnair - www.finnair.com (Enontekiö, Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Ivalo)SAS - www.flysas.com (Kittilä, Ivalo)Norwegian - www.norwegian.com (Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Ivalo)Air100 - www.air100.fi (Enontekiö)Flybe - fi.flybe.com (Enontekiö, Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Ivalo)Blue1 - www.flysas.com (Kittilä, Ivalo)

MAJOR CHARTER-FLIGHTSTUI (Enontekiö, Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Ivalo)Monarch(Enontekiö, Rovaniemi, Kittilä)Thomas Cook Airlines (Enontekiö, Rovaniemi, Kittilä)LOT (Ivalo)Information: Finavia

All you need for a good HolidayVISIT the Lapland Hotels website and book a pleasant holiday. Our holiday store is open 24/7. Just select your preferred location, room or apartment, as well as any addi-tional services you would like.

SELECT THE LANGUAGEEnglishAuf DeutschEn EspañolEn françaisпо-русскиPå Svenska日本語

www.laplandhotels.com

LAPLAND CLUB is the best way to stay up to date with what is being offered by the most popular holiday destinations in Lap-land! Membership is free. As a club mem-ber, you will enjoy the benefits and offers that are most suitable for you. You will also receive information on current campaigns and upcoming events in Lapland before others.

Join the Lapland inner group today and take advantage of the accommodation benefits immediately when making a boo-king. You will receive a temporary mem-bership card during check-in at a hotel. We will post the official Lapland Club card about a month after registration.

Join and take advantage of the benefits:www.laplandhotels.com/liity

THE LARGEST hotel chain in Lapland will provide you with a Lapland holiday exactly how you want it to be! The selection of Lapland Hotels consists of ele-ven personal hotels, with high quality holiday apart-ments, as well as four down-hill ski resorts: On the side of Äkäslompolo, Ylläs, Olos , Pal-las and Luosto.

Our holiday centres are located in different parts of the most beautiful scenery in Lapland, which can be per-ceived differently in its northern urban landscape, vibrant fell villages, or in its

spiritual wilderness idyll. With us, your holiday will consist of comfortable accom-

modation, delicious dining options and your desired

program of events. There are outdoor

activities on offer, from individual pursuits to gui-ded safaris, a wide range of pampering tre-atments, indoor sports facili-

ties, as well as, of course, evening

programmes.If desired, you can

also take advantage of the services of our cooperation

companies- Lapland Safaris and Europcar ‒ conveniently under one roof.

Flights to locations in Lapland from Helsinki

Lapland Club brings more holiday convenience

Lapland just the way you want it

I ❤ Lapland 3Check

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Explore the nature

Lapland’s nature is located usually quite close to a hotel ‒ and is a safe environment to explore. Ask at the hotel about trekking routes. By exploring the nature, you will be able to experience the Finnish way to unwind. It is said that the forest is like a church to the Finns. It is a useful place to gather up energy and leave your worries behind. TEXT RIITTA KARHUSILTA

Clean air How can the nature of Lapland be experienced and seen? Start by bre-athing. Lapland has been proven to have the cleanest air. Even a short walk in the fresh air will refresh your wellbeing.

Eight seasonsThe seasons are clearly distinguis-hable in Lapland. Instead of four seasons, in Lapland, eight seasons are talked about, each of which has its specific chores. The seasonal names describe the weather and the time of events. The seasons are frosty winter, crusted snow spring, ice break-up spring, the midnight sun, harvest, golden autumn, the first snow and Christmas darkness. The differences are dramatic: during the summer, it is bright, both day and night, while during the polar night in the winter, it is dark around the clock. The temperature also varies dramatically during the dif-ferent seasons of the year. During the autumn, the seasonal colours enchant outdoor enthusiasts.

Natural characteristicsLapland’s special characteristics are fast flowing rivers, clear water lakes, extensive marshes and spectacular fells. By fells, we mean a mountai-nous area, free of trees. Evergreen conifers, pines and spruces, make up the majority of the forests. Light barked birch trees are at their most beautiful in the summer and during the golden autumn time.

During the summer, you may be surprised by the abundance of flo-wers and the chirping of the birds, as nature exudes during its short growing season. You will surely run across familiar species, but Lapland has many birds, mammals, fish and insects that only nest in Lapland. In addition, there are many species, a majority of which live in the north.

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Succulent berriesDuring the autumn, you will be able to taste Finnish berries directly from nature, actual vitamin bombs. Blue-berries and cranberries ripen every year in abundance, but the amount of the pride of Lapland, cloudberries that grow in the marshes, varies. The local residents guard the locations where they grow well and are loathe to tell outsiders.

Black crowberries are hardy plants, as a result of the northern conditions. It grows during the autumn, just like a carpet on the ground. The leaves of bearberries are highly noticeable during the golden autumn period, when their flaming red leaves dot the autumn landscape. Lapland’s aromatic ber-

ries are picked by both Finnish commer-

cial fruit pickers and those from as far away as Asia.

Lace patterned stonesLapland’s stones are particular-ly beautiful. Many observers have admired the lace-like patterns of the lichen growing on the stones, the beauty of the Rhizocarpaceae. Each stone is unique - and there are cer-tainly enough stones!

ReindeerMost visitors to Lapland probab-ly want to see a reindeer! Reindeer move around naturally, half-tamed. You may be able to see a reindeer from a distance, but do not try to stroke a reindeer, as it will be afraid of you. Each reindeer has its own owner, who can be identified by a mark notched on an ear. During the winter, their coats will keep the rein-deer warm during hard wintery con-ditions. The colour of the reindeer varies from greyish brown to, even, snow-white. Reindeer shed their ant-lers every year, so, with good luck, you may even be able to find some reindeer antlers in nature.

Long-distance migrationMost birds are migratory birds. Some birds, such as the Arctic tern, will make an incredibly long flight to be able to nest in Lapland for the summer.

Means of survival during the winterThe animals of Lapland have come up with ingenious ways in which to survive the occasional harsh condi-tions they will experience. Species have adapted to the cold winter, among other things, by growing thick fur or by sleeping under the snow, the environment of which is significantly warmer than on the outside. During the winter, it is fun to watch out for animal tracks in the snow and try to identify them. Start with, perhaps, a reindeer and even a hare, you will certainly find traces of these! Some of the animals also change the colour of their coats, according to the season. Grouse and hare are brown during the summer,

but in white, during the winter. The change in

colours helps the animals avoid the clutches of pre-dators.

No reason to remain indoorsEvery kind of weather is good weat-her to be outside- you just have to dress correctly. Finns explore and enjoy nature throughout the year; they just need more clothes as it gets colder. In return for the time spent outdoors, you will receive red cheeks, a vibrant mind and a good appetite.

Snow wondersDuring the winter, nature takes on a new look. When the snow falls, you should observe the snowflakes- if only it was possible to catch them. Each snowflake has six corners, but, otherwise, they are all unique. Snow varies in its structure- it can be as fine as flour or like sugar or it may even be hard-packed. Mother Nature conjures up an actual fairy-tale world, when the trees are laye-red with white frost. When it snows more, the snow that collects on top of the tree branches forms imagina-tive shapes and figures.

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Our holiday resorts are located in the middle of the most beautiful scenery in Lapland, and every location is guaran-teed to be unique.

You can reach nature directly from the doors of your hotel, and you might even get to meet a reindeer right in the yard. The best way to familiarize yourself with the unique Lappish nature is by partici-pating in one of our many activities, take a ride on a snowmobile, husky or rein-deer, far away from settlements, deep into the Arctic landscape. We arrange colourful peripheral programmes, and during the autumn and spring seasons, many of our hotels also have their very own “holiday guru” to serve holidayma-kers. Lapland Hotel Äkäshotelli in Ylläs and Saariselkä’s Lapland Hotel Riekon-linna offer a variety of pampering and wellness treatments and indoor activity facilities. In addition, one of our coope-ration partners, the largest programme service in Lapland, Lapland Safaris, offer outdoor activities, from individual pur-suits, to guided safaris.

EXHILARATING SNOWMOBILE SAFARIS.Experience the excitement of driving a snowmobile; join a safari trip far away from all inhabitations, over frozen rivers and lakes. Snowmobiles ge-nerally move along on snowmobile routes, where their use is both safe and comfortable.

Lapland Safaris’ range of services inclu-des a number of snow-mobile safaris, ranging in length from two to six hours. Safaris are perfect for anyone holding a driver’s license or motorcycle card. All safaris are supported by professional guides, so that you can safely experience an unforgettable experience in the bre-athtaking nature of Lapland.

You could also select a thrilling snow-mobile safari, with a focus on the driving and enjoying the Lapland nature or go ice-fishing on a wilderness lake. Some of the best ice fishing lakes are easiest to get to by snowmobile. While you make a hole in the ice and try your luck, the gui-de can prepare a meal at a campfire. We

can even go by snowmobile to Santa Cla-us Village! However, perhaps one of the

most exotic and invigorating experi-ences is to driving under the

moonlight, on a snowmo-bile trip under Lapland’s

stars on the Northern Lights excursion.

TRAVELLING WITH ANIMALS IN NATURE.

Follow in the footsteps of the Sami people by tra-

velling in a sleigh pulled by reindeer. A reindeer excursion

is a peaceful way to travel through the quiet nature of Lapland.

A husky Safari is a really exciting experience, especially if you have the opportunity to act as a driver and gui-de your own husky team. Experience the excitement of the dogs, when they are passionately waiting to pull a sled through the breathtaking Lappish na-ture.

You can also connect a snowmobile safari to a husky or reindeer farm visit and enjoy meeting the arctic animals and riding in the nature.

Take a trip deep into unique nature

Spend your holiday in a completely different arctic town landscape, a vibrant fell village or, even, enjoy peace in the wilderness.

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March and April are also the dry seasons, when the clouds are often scar-ce and the

sun shines from early morning until late at night. April is the best time to try to get an early tan in the north.

During the spring, the sun warms sweetly and the weather is mild , ge-nerally the frost is only a few degrees, and in some places, the temperature rises up to a couple of degrees. The overnight frost, however, ensures that the snow does not melt . The sunniest places may also have snow-free spots.

Many people agree that the best way to explore Lapland’s nature is to go on a cross-country skiing trip. Near the hotel, there are superbly cared for tracks for you to choose a suitable length and difficulty level, according to your own expertise.

In April, you can also experience a variety of activities. You could even try snow-shoe walking in the beautiful snow-covered nature, and experience silence in the middle of a forest. Or even depart further away on a snow-mobile, check out the arctic nature and its characteristics. Whilst on safaris, you can also hear about the unique sto-ries of life in the north.

A particularly memorable excursion is to go on a dog or reindeer- sled ride and travel through the nature with the animals.

Finns prefer to take their holiday during the springSpring is a great time in Lapland. When the snow has already melted in the south and nature is waking up, the snow cover in Lapland is at its greatest in early April and will only melt in May.

”During the spring,

the sun warms sweetly and the weather is mild.”

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Lapland events calender 2013-2014

Lapland’s best eventsWe have picked the most interesting events that will take place in Lapland. The same events will take place year after year, only the dates will change.

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31.5.2013-4.5.2014 Aurora Borealis. Science and stories of the northern lights. Rovaniemi, Arktikum buil-ding.

4.10.2013-2.2.2014 The hornhat and other headdresses – exhibition presents a variety of Sami woman’s headdresses, as well as changes to these that have taken place. Nature Centre Siida. INARI.

24.10.2013-29.1.2014 Aves Ouluen-sis. The beauty of northern natu-re and birds. Rovaniemi, Arktikum building.

NovemberFIS Ski World Cup Levi. The world cup season in slalom opens at Levi. The world’s elite male and fema-le slalom skiers will attack Levi’s black- slope- led by the Finnish national team!

Add the Olos FIS-ski competitions here, a large cross-country skiing event involving the world’s best skiers.

Kaamosjazz 2013, A jazz event that will be arranged in the area of Saa-riselkä-Tankavaara for the 33rd time. Concerts at Riekonlinna 22.11. 21.-24.11.

Rovaniemi’s Christmas opening. Santa Claus Village, Arctic Circle. 23.11.2013

DecemberSanta Claus is coming to town. San-ta Claus Village, Arctic Circle. Come and wish Santa Claus a safe journey around the world! 23.12.2013.

JanuaryArctic Lapland Rally, Rovaniemi. 23.-25.1.2014.

Ylläs Jazz Blues, hot rhythms in the mid-winter cold, jazz and blues in the darkness. 30.1.–2.2.2014.

FebruaryArctic Design Week. Rovaniemi. 17.-23.2.2014.

MarchReindeer Cup (gold bell races), Rovaniemi. 1.-2.3.2014.

Saint Mary’s days. Annual Sami cultural event in Enontekiö. Hetta. 21.-23.3.2014.

Arctic Horse Race Levi. 22.-23.3.2014.

AprilReindeer King’s Cup Race in Inari. 5.-6.4.2014.

Rovaniemi Reindeer Sprint Race. Street races with the fastest reindeers in Rovaniemi city centre. 11.4.2014.

Hetta’s Music days. High class clas-sical music festival. Enontekiö, Hetta. 14.-21.4.2014.

JuneKilpisjärvi exercise midsummer. Legendary fitness event in Finland’s wildest terrain, organised since 1946. 27.-29.6.2014.

Jutajaiset – Folklore Festival, Rovaniemi. 25.-29.6.2014.

Levi’s Midsummer. 20.21.6.2014.

JulyKittilä’s traditional summer fair. 3.-7.7.2014.

Lapin Kullan Kimallus –festivaali (Lapland’s Glittering Gold- festival), Rovaniemi. 10.-12.7.2014.

AugustHarvest festival, Rovaniemi. 8.-9.8.2014.

Rovaniemi’s Old Market. 15.-17.8.2014.

SeptemberRuskamaraton (Autumn Marathon), Levi. 6.9.2014.

RuskaRock & Culture –music event, Olos. Dates tba.

Staalon Theatre festival. Levi. 25.-28.9.2014.

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A sauna stove, a hot pile of stones, is used to heat up a sauna. The stove holds sto-nes, which store the heat. When water is thrown onto the hot

stones, it is converted into hot steam. This steam rises upwards towards the upper sections of the sauna room and, therefore, the sauna rooms also have sauna benches that are installed up towards the ceiling. The sauna stove can be heated by electri-city or wood.

Prior to sitting in the sauna, it is best to wash yourself, so that the sauna remains clean, whilst the steam feels at its most pleasant when it is in contact with moist skin. The use of a towel to sit on increases the hygiene levels and separates the heat of the hot benches from the skin. A suitab-le sauna bathing temperature is a matter of taste, but in general, a temperature between from 70 to 90 degrees C is favou-rable at head height. At the beginning, it is good to warm up in the sauna, thus, sweat will be able to calmly rise to the surface of the skin. After this, water should be

thrown onto the stones, a little at a time. When taking a traditional sauna, some bathers like to whip themselves calmly with birch twigs, to increase the effective-ness of the cleansing process. At the same time, the twigs spread a wonderful aroma around the sauna!

SAUNA AS A SOURCE OF HEALTH. In Finland, a sauna has long been considered to be a traditional cure for many diseases. Every Finn knows the popular Finnish saying: ”If a sauna, liquor or tar does not help, the disease is fatal.” Sauna bathing relieves aches and pains, as well as impro-ves the quality of sleep. It is said that after a sauna, a woman is at her most beautiful!

Many Finns believe that a sauna clean-ses the soul. During the winter, as the freezing temperatures and chilly draughts arrive, it is pleasant to retreat into the warmth of a sauna. On the other hand, during the summer, nothing beats the soft steam of a wood-burning sauna, followed by a dip into the water of a lake. A healthy person can safely go to the sauna as often as they like.

In the old days, in rural areas, a sauna

was a place for both births and deaths. Newborns received their first washes there, whilst bodies were also washed and cleansed there after death. Saunas have a very special bathing meaning during celebratory days, such as Christmas and Midsummer’s eve. A sauna is for calming down and relaxing. It is not allowed to talk loudly or use bad language in a sauna. In Finland, it is common for the whole fa-mily to bathe in a sauna at the same time.

HEATING A HOTEL ROOM/COTTAGE SAUNA. There is normally an on-site guide to assist in the heating of a sauna. Please read these instructions carefully. Two control adjustments are required. First of all, select the time, how long the sauna is to remain warm. And secondly, select the desired temperature. The time control may also have a timer, in the event that you only want the sauna to be heated at a later time. It usually takes about half an hour to heat up a small sauna. If the benches higher up begin to feel too hot, bathers should move to thebenches lower down, where the sauna will be a little cooler.

Finnish SaunaWhat could be more Finnish than a sauna? Enjoying a sauna is about much more than just bathing. TEXT RIITTA KARHUSILTA

Restaurants with genuine flavoursThe kitchens of the Lapland Hotels plan their menus for the enjoyment of holi-daymakers, providing genuine flavours of Lapland, the best fish dishes, domestic classic dishes, as well as the best parts of European cuisine.

The kitchen manager of the largest hotel chain in Lapland, Tero Män-tykangas, is aware of his responsibility in maintaining and pro-moting Lappish food

culture. The restaurants of Mäntykangas serve food that is authentically Lappish, clean and fair.

A key factor in a Lappish kitchen is the raw ingredients, their freshness, purity and authenticity. Reindeer meat is grown in the nearby fells, char is fis-hed from the deep and clear waters of Lake Inari, salmon in the restaurants is brought from the Arctic Ocean. The ho-me of Lapland lefse is also in the neigh-bouring area, not to mention almond potatoes or Kaski turnip.

‒ Our restaurants provide authentic Lappish food that is pure and fair.

If the menu reads wild arctic char from Lake Inari, then this is what it will be. The fish cannot be, for example, far-med salmon.

‒ We also do not mix, for example, ethnic flavours in reindeer fillets, but we try to ensure that the portions maintain their own taste. We only flavour meat with salt and butter.

There is a great deal of talk about food and the customers are well infor-med, they can, according to Mäntykan-gas, appreciate freshness and authentic flavours.

LOCAL FEATURES ARE DISPLAYED ON MENUS. Each Lapland Hotel is diffe-

rent, individual. That is also why every restaurant has its own distinctive menu, their own classic dishes that remain on the menu, regardless of fluctuating trends.

‒ The reputation of the wild fish of the north and the supplies of the Arctic Ocean has spread far and wide, and for good reason. Our contract fishers have good knowledge of Lapland’s clear water lakes, the fishing locations of Inari, Mie-kojärvi and Lokka. The surging Arctic Ocean harmoniously complements the genuine tastes of our servings.

Northern fish live in cold, clean wa-ters, thus, they differ from their sout-hern relatives. For example, Arctic char is one some of the most popular raw ingredients.

‒ Sautéed reindeer, cheese bread and local cold cuts, of course, are always on the list.

Dining nowadays is largely based on mental images. Food achieves a new dimension, when its origin is described in detail.

‒ The tables of our restaurants have a presentation, which states that, for

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example, our honey comes from Tornio, a Sea Lapland landscape, in which it is pro-duced by the Matti Mykkälä’s honey farm, consisting of 50 hives.

RAW MATERIALS FROM REAL LOCAL FOOD. Mäntykangas tells us that the restaurant pur-chases its raw ingredients from small farms in Lapland.

‒ We get our asparagus, for example, from Pello Teerijärvi - Finland’s northernmost as-paragus fields, Mäntykangas says.

‒ For us, it is also important that our rein-deer meat comes from Hannu Lahtela’s reindeer farm in Salla. The reindeer herding area of Salla in Eastern Lapland is well-kno-wn for the fact that the reindeer are wild, and have come to terms with being hidden away in the forests.

Anneli Tahvonen ’s farms vegetables for Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara, such as mi-ni- root vegetables, edible flowers and onions.

‒ Anneli has a garden in Tapionkylä and we are continually involved in its develop-ment. She also collects spruce buds, birch lea-ves, lichens and other natural supplies for us.

After fish on Lake Inari 6.11N 68 ° 50.058 ’E 27 ° 22.588 ’. Wind blowing at 9 ms / NE and the mercu-ry thermometer on the boat displaying zero.

Some parts of Lake Inari have already been covered in ice. The wind blows from the north, as fisherman Tapio Aarnipuro determinedly dri-ves his boat between the islands, where nets have been lowered. Enough wind had blown that the nets have had to be lowered in a more sheltered location.

Tapio is a professional fisherman. During periods when the ice has melted, he may spend a hundred days out on the lake. Alongside fishing, Tapio is also involved in reindeer husbandry. Also accompanying him on the fishing trip is reindeer processor Mika Hindström, to whom Tapio’s reindeers will end up. Mika is a former chef, so a common language can be found immediately.

There are around a dozen or so professional fishermen on Lake Inari, with more recreational fishermen. To the delight of restaurants, there is an abundant amount of lavaret. Arctic char and brown trout have, however, already been lost to Lake Inari for several years. Not even Tapio is able to give a reason for this. 200 metres of nets up, hands covered with ice and noses running. A hat must be raised to these gentlemen. Yes, it is easy for cooks to warm up when bustling around a kitchen. Ahti will eat this time scarcely, as the fish will be heading towards the evening’s fish soup. Fortu-nately, there was a warm cabin, sauna, and a bottle of Marski to warm the mind and the soul.

Lake Inari is Finland’s third largest lake, the deepest section is 95 meters deep and the lake has 3318 islands. A little knowledge, just in case the conversation at a bar turns towards the lakes of northern Finland.

TERO MÄNTYKANGAS,

KITCHEN MANAGER OF THE LAPLAND HOTELS

Lappish delicacies on breakfast tablesMany guests are pleasantly surprised by the breakfast tables at Lapland Hotels, when in addition to a tradi-tional hotel breakfast, the breakfast tables are also provided with Lap-pish delicacies.

There is, for example, cold-smo-ked pike, juniper berry flavoured Lokka lavaret, Ice cellar salmon, Kitka’s wise whitefish from Kuusamo, Lappish honey from Tornio, as well as genuine Potato lefse.

So, how is it then that the whi-tefish are so wise? Small whitefish living in the Kitka waterways are cal-led Kitka’s wise, since they have cho-sen to remain in the Finnish waters, even thought it would be possible for them to swim into foreign waters without a visa.

Northern lights blaze in LaplandA green light dancing through the night sky would charm just about anybody. The northern lights have always been mysterious and unpredictable. Both residents and visitors in Lapland are in the fortunate position to be able to observe this magnificent yearly spectacle. TEXT RIITTA KARHUSILTA

To view the northern lights, it must be suf-ficiently dark and the sky must be as cloud-free as possible. Observers must move away from the lights

of residential settlements, towards darker areas, to scout the northern sky. The best time for viewing the northern lights are the hours on both sides of midnight. The displays of the northern lights generally culminate between 22- 23.30, i.e., the so called, magnetic midnight. However, the northern lights can also be observed during evenings. During the early morning, the amount of occurrences of the northern lights decreases once again.

STORIES AND BELIEFS. The Finnish word for the northern lights, “revon-tulet”, refers to a fox. The story goes that a fire fox rubbed its side on a fell, whereupon sparks flew off into the sky as northern lights. According to a se-cond version, the tail of a fox swept the

northern lights up from a snow drift into the sky. The glow of the northern lights often resembles flames or the sweep of a fox’s tail. According to Si-berian folklore, a child born under the light of the northern lights will have a happy and long life.

WHAT VARIATIONS OF NORTHERN LIGHTS ARE THERE? Each and every burst of the northern lights is a little bit different. The most common form is, however, a yellowish-green arc in the northern sky. It becomes clearer over time, will start to churn and can even, for a moment, cover the entire sky. In addition, a purple colour can be seen, sometimes even red. A northern lights corona may be talked about, when the northern Lights open up di-rectly above the observer, lighting up in a radial manner from a single point, resembling an umbrella.

SUBSCRIBE TO A NORTHERN LIGHTS ALERT. The scientific name for the northern lights is aurora borealis. The

frequency of the northern lights is dependent on the activity of the sun, which varies in cycles that are about 11-years long. The most recent sunspot maximum has just taken place, while the longer-term space weather is ex-pected to abate in Northern Lapland. The northern lights, however, can still be well seen. The light of the northern lights is generated in the stratosphere, at an altitude of about 100-200 km.

The Meteorological Institute main-tains a free alert concerning the nort-hern lights. It sends an email message to those who are interested in the matter, informing recipients of when the Northern Lights are likely to be the most noticeable. You can join up with the northern lights alert list via aurorasnow-feed@posti.fmi.fi.

Auroras Now! is a space weather service, which facilitates the observa-tion of the northern lights in Finland. The service includes magnetic field detectors, as well as near real-time ca-mera images of the northern lights.

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Aurora Borealis adventure by snowmobiles at YlläsEnjoy the nice accommodation at Lap-land Hotel Äkäshotelli or Ylläskaltio and experience Aurora Borealis safari by snowmobiles. Learn facts and fic-tion about the Northern Lights. With a bit of luck, the Northern Lights will dance across the skies above you.

A memorable snowmobile ride through wintry woodlands after sun-set. Learn facts and fiction about the Northern Lights beside a campfire while enjoying a hot cup of coffee. With a bit of luck, the Northern Lights will dance across the skies above you. Duration approx.3 hours

Aurora dinner: Roast arctic char from Lake Inari OR reindeer fillet, Matsu-take risotto, vinaigrette with dill and wasabi. The Aurora Borealis parfait, berries from Lapland and Coffee.

Package includes accommodation 3 nights with breakfast, Aurora Alarm telephone during your stay, Aurora din-ner for one day, sauna, swimming, gym and Aurora Borealis Safari one person.

Snowmobile adventure to kota dinner at LuostoEnjoy the nice accommodation at Lapland Hotel Luostotunturi and feel and enjoy the traditional sleigh ride drawn by snowmobile to Kota dinner. Kotadinner will be set by the open fire. Perhaps the Aurora Borealis –The Northerm Lights –will appear to you.

Experience traditional Kota din-ner by the open fire! Enjoy the Arctic

night by sitting comfortably in a sleigh drawn by snowmobile. Sli-de through the snow-covered forest under a bright sky lit by the moon and the stars. Perhaps the Aurora Borealis – the Northern Lights – will appear to show you the way to near-by forest kota! Relax by the open fire and enjoy the flavour of Lapland! Return back to Safari Club. Duration 2,5-3 hours

Aurora dinner: Roast arctic char from Lake Inari OR reindeer fillet, Matsu-take risotto, vinaigrette with dill and wasabi. The Aurora Borealis parfait, berries from Lapland and Coffee.

Package includes accommodation 4 nights, breakfast, Aurora Alarm telephone during your stay, Amet-hyst spa, gym and snowmobile sleigh ride to Kotadinner by the open fire. Snowmobile sleigh ride starts at 19:30. Duration 2,5-3 hours. 

Northern Lights trail experience at LuostoEnjoy the nice accommodation at Lap-land Hotel Luostotunturi and partici-pate to the Northern Lights trail expe-rience.

Experience traditional Kota din-ner by the open fire! Enjoy the Arctic night by sitting comfortably in a sleigh drawn by snowmobile. Sli-de through the snow-covered forest under a bright sky lit by the moon and the stars. Perhaps the Aurora Borea-lis – the Northern Lights – will appear to show you the way to nearby forest kota! Relax by the open fire and enjoy the flavour of Lapland! Return back to Safari Club. Duration 2,5-3 hours

Aurora dinner: Roast arctic char from Lake Inari OR reindeer fillet, Matsu-take risotto, vinaigrette with dill and wasabi. The Aurora Borealis parfait, berries from Lapland and Coffee.

Package includes accommodation 4 nights with breakfast, dinner, Auroa dinner for one day, Aurora Alarm telephone during your stay, Amethyst spa, gym and program.

Aurora Borealis adventure at SaariselkäEnjoy the nice accommodation at Lap-land Hotel Riekonlinna and feel and enjoy the Aurora Borealis adventure. With a little luck, if the sky is clear, the moon, stars and even the Northern Lights may show you the way.

This safari is heading to the Igloo site by minibus. There you have the possibility to roam around the forest nearby the igloos, and watch a Nort-hern Lights -show inside the igloo. With a little luck, if the sky is clear, the moon, stars and even the Nort-hern Lights may show up. During the trip your guide will build an open fire and you can enjoy a snack by the fla-mes. Duration 3 hours

Aurora dinner: Roast arctic char from Lake Inari OR reindeer fillet, Matsu-take risotto, vinaigrette with dill and wasabi. The Aurora Borealis parfait, berries from Lapland and Coffee.

Price includes accommodation with breakfast 3 nights, Aurora dinner for one day, Aurora Alarm –telephone during your stay and safari.

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TEXT KARI MARTIALA IMAGES KARI MARTIALA & LAPLAND HOTELSClos e to n at u re

Kilpisjärvi A GATEWAY TO THE ARCTIC SEA

Come and explore the real Lapland, Finland’s last untouched wilderness area, on the border of three count-ries. Large fells, such as Kilpisjärvi’s unforgettable Saana or Malla that guards over Finland ’s oldest nature reserve, are part of the Finnish natio-nal landscape. The region of Kilpisjär-vi is the location of all 40 of Finland’s mountains that are more than one kilometre in height. When skiing, you can get to the Three country cairn, from which there are wonderful views of the high fells of Sweden and Norway’s Pältsa and the Paras - high fells.

Whilst at Kilpisjärvi, you can also make a day trip to the coast of the Arctic Ocean, 50 km away, to the Ski-botn fishing village or the ”Paris of the North”, in other words, the city of Tromsø.LAPLAND HOTEL KILPIS is a base for adventurers, winter and summe-rtime fishermen, as well as trekkers, surrounded by Finland’s highest peaks, very close to wonderful “alpi-ne scenery”. Our hotel is located in wonderful scenery, by the side of Kil-pisjärvi, close to Saana.

Hetta A GENUINE SAMI VILLAGE

The Enontekiö parish village of Hetta, is located on the shoreline of Ounasjärvi, leading to the Norway Kautokeino junc-tion. From Hetta, towards the south, the Pallas-Yllästunturi national park opens up. When in Hetta, you can experience a day trip to Kautokeino, Norway, or visit the Nature and Culture centre Skierri in the village, providing the opportuni-ty to explore the nature of Lapland and the history of tourism. In March, during Annunciation day, Hetta is filled with a colourful Sami celebration, along with organised programmes.

LAPLAND HOTEL HETTA, favoured for peaceful, conference organizers and outdoor activity enthusiasts, is located in the parish village of Enontekiö, on the coast of the beautiful Ounasjärvi, amidst vast wilderness areas, with excel-lent opportunities for outdoor recreatio-nal pursuits.

Muonio BY THE SIDE OF TORNIONJOKI

Muonio is located on E8, or alongside the Kilpisjärventie road, by the beautiful Tornionjoki river passing between Fin-land and Sweden. Pallas and Olos are a personal cluster of fells and the nature has been proven to be the cleanest in Europe.LAPLAND HOTEL OLOS, suitable for active holidaymaking and high quali-ty conferences, is located at the foot of Olostunturi. Olos has everything you need for your stay; privacy, company, well- groomed slopes, the best cross-country ski trails and routes, as well as world-class accommodation in holiday apartments and suites. The hotel has

magnificent views over the Pallas fells.Pallas is the truest and most tradi-

tional downhill ski mountain and a real paradise for enthusiasts.LAPLAND HOTEL PALLAS is a classic tourist hotel, an authentic wilderness hotel on the mountain slopes. In particu-lar, Telemark enthusiasts have taken the place as their own. A holiday in Pallas is encapsulated in an unhurried and rela-xed time together, outdoors in the fresh mountain air.

Lapland has a great deal to offerThe 11 personal hotels of the Lapland Hotels chain are located in close proximity to city culture, ski resorts, large wilderness areas or on the edge of rugged landscapes.

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Levi A GENUINE LAPLAND ALPINE VILLAGE

Levi is a year-round, international tourist centre in Fell Lapland. The versatile ser-vices of the area, as well as the envi-ronment, create the conditions for a holiday, in which each day can provide wonderful experiences in the Lappish fell scenery. The super fells of Lapland will provide enough activities, even during snowless periods, as well as pro-grammes and experiences for visitors of all ages. Why not visit a wilderness studio, the well-known Lappish painter

Reidar Särestöniemi’s artist ’s home in Kaukonen in Kittilä.LAPLAND HOTEL SIRKANTÄHTI, with its diverse accommodation options, is located in an ideal location at the heart of the Levi fell village - we live amidst the centre of events, and its only a short trip to take part in activities. Why not round off your holiday with a snowmo-bile safari on Levi’s spectacular routes- you can even depart directly and conve-niently from the yard of the hotel.

Ylläs EMBRACED BY THE SEVEN FELLS

Äkäslompolo is a genuine Lappish vil-lage, which is located, embraced by the seven fells, at the foot of Yllästun-turi. All services are close by and the gorgeous outdoor terrain starts right outside the hotel. Ylläs is known for its particularly good hiking opportu-nities. When considering the number of slopes, the slope kilometres and altitude differences, as well as their diversity, Ylläs is the largest ski resort in Finland. LAPLAND HOTEL ÄKÄSHOTEL-LI offers everything that is needed for a good and active holiday in Äkäslompolo, in an authentic villa-ge atmosphere. The day’s moment of pampering can be enjoyed with health treatments, a sauna and swim-ming pool, as well as, to crown the evening of, the dance and dining res-taurant Pirtukirkko.

The Family favourite LAP-LAND HOTEL YLLÄSKALTIO offers uncomplicated accommodation in non-smoking rooms with saunas, easy transport to a wide variety of slopes and hearty meals from a buffet table. For children and young people, the hotel has its own games’ room and a playroom for the family’s little ones.

Rovaniemi THE CAPITAL OF LAPLAND

Have a holiday close to a city, but surrounded by nature. Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, where you can combine the many possibilities of a city and a real snow holiday. Whilst at Rovaniemi, you can pop out on a date with Santa at his grotto and visit the Santa Claus Village that is open all year round. Arktikum, in turn, con-tains science and culture under the same roof, more experiences can be provided in the grand Korundi House of Culture or the Arctic Circle Husky Park.LAPLAND HOTEL SKY OUNASVAA-RA is located in a fantastic location, high on the top of Ounasvaara, with an unobstructed view across the Lap-pish wilderness. The hotel is a parti-cularly popular place for conferences, providing a surrounding landscape to break free from the daily grind. The hotel’s restaurant has been ranked in the top 20 restaurants in Finland.LAPLAND HOTEL BEAR´S LODGE is only a half hour drive from the city of Rovaniemi. The wilderness hotel provides an easy setting to find your own peaceful relaxing vacation, a successful meeting or an important celebration.

Saariselkä LAPLAND’S GOLD VILLAGE

Saariselka is a classic fell resort, Lapland’s genuine gold village. Saari-selkä tourist centre is located in Nort-hern Lapland, in the municipality of Inari. On all sides, northern Europe’s largest fell plateau opens out, whe-re the natural purity, beauty and the silence of the fells provide the oppor-tunity to relax and cool off.

Regarded as a high standard holi-day destination, LAPLAND HOTEL RIEKONLINNA is located only a day trip from the Arctic Ocean, amidst the services of Saariselkä. Riekon-linna offers high quality services for the entire family. Accommodation options include new, high-quality apartments. Our new restau-rant serves the best Lap-pish game delicacies and exotic Arctic Ocean Sea-food, with international flavours.

Luosto

From Rovaniemi, it is just over an hour’s drive to Luosto, a unique sil-ver pine village offering a genuine Lapland environment. Pyhä-Luosto National Park is known in particular for its 35 -kilometre-long fell ridge and the magnificent sights from the Amethyst Mine that can be found at Lampivaara, in the centre of the national park. Luosto certainly has enough to do for a holiday. Whether you want to cross country or downhill ski, play, swim, or have fun with rein-deer and huskies – you will be able to find it all here.LAPLAND HOTEL LUOSTOTUNTURI is known for its amethyst spa and the area’s wide range of restaurants. The hotel’s star guests and popular dan-ces are well known nationally.

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THE ATMOSPHERE OF A SILVER PINE VILLAGE

NORWAY

SWEDEN RUSSIAFINLAND

Kilpisjärvi

Hetta, Enontekiö Saariselkä

Pallas, MuonioOlos, Muonio

Levi

Ylläs

Luosto

Rovaniemi

KITTILÄ

ROVANIEMI

HETTA IVALO

HELSINKI

LAPLAND HOTELS DISTRICT

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