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- The Skyview Igloo Resort in Rovaniemi
- The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
- The Northern Lights Village in Levi
- The Northern Lights Village in Saariselkä
- Seaside Glass Villas in Kemi
- Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi
- Wilderness Hotel Muotka & Igloos
- Apukka Resort in Rovaniemi
- Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
- Pyhä Igloos in the Rovaniemi area
- Golden Crown – Levin Iglut in Levi
- In conclusion
Come on, let’s be honest, who has never dreamed of spending at least one night in these ice domes and watching the northern lights from the comfort of their bed?
It’s the kind of experience you want to have once in your life (well ok, even more than once, but it does come at a certain cost!) and Finnish Lapland is the perfect place for it. Why? Because the weather there is generally very favourable! Since it gets very, very cold, the sky is dry and barely cloudy. So you can fairly easily watch the northern lights.
On top of that, Finnish Lapland has huge flat open spaces, exactly what you’re looking for to set up this kind of property. Because in Norway, with all its mountains, let’s admit it’s harder to have enough room to put up the igloos!
Hence Finnish Lapland! And honestly there’s quite a bit of choice, more and more small and large properties are taking the plunge on this type of experience. They also provide all the must-do activities in winter such as dog sledding, ice fishing, snowmobiling… Your Lapland experience won’t stop at watching the lights from your bed, and thank goodness! These igloos are much more than just beds. They’re insane settings, usually tucked away in the spruce forest to make the most of nature.
As I was saying, there are quite a few candidates, especially since there are plenty of towns and villages to visit in Finnish Lapland. But here’s a little selection of 11 that are safe bets, you won’t regret it. I’ll put the others on the map of Finnish Lapland in the accommodation/igloos and ice hotels section.
Alright, off we go!
The Skyview Igloo Resort in Rovaniemi
It’s brand new, piping hot and seriously gorgeous! These luxury igloos were created by aurora hunters Lorenzo Mirandola and Lu Schaffner, so let’s just say they know what they’re doing by offering you these igloos tucked away in the forest north of Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland.
Unlike some others, here you’re in a real cocoon, it’s luxurious, super comfortable, spacious. And on top of that, the bed sits right under the ice dome.
Let me go on (because it sounds amazing!), inside your accommodation you also have a spa and a sauna! The true Finnish paradise experience!
It’s really brand new, you’ll get that new-build smell in the rooms.
For the practical side:
- the bed is in the dome so you’re under the lights!
- the igloos are 50m² with a living room, kitchenette and a superb bathroom
- there’s room for 4 people, so it works as a family!
- breakfast is included
- and of course parking and wifi are included!
So if you want to be pampered under the northern lights, this is the place!
The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Set in the wilderness of Saariselkä, you definitely know these igloos. Because they’re the most famous, the best known at least visually. You’ve all already seen that photo of the many little igloos lost in the winter forest. So this is your chance to learn more!
First of all, I think they have the best location. Saariselkä is extremely well situated, much further north than Rovaniemi, so right under the auroral oval. Even when the lights are faint, you’ll still get them! It gets really cold up there so the sky enjoys excellent weather. And the airport isn’t far!
I won’t hide it from you, the resort is huuuge, but the bubbles are nicely spread out! Because everything is set well apart so you really feel like you’re out in nature.
I say it’s huge because there are several types of accommodation, and I’d say that’s what makes the place so strong:
- small igloos (with a toilet and sometimes a bathroom)
- large igloos with a sitting area
- but also gorgeous wooden chalets of different sizes, all ultra cosy.
The igloos are grouped with the igloos, the chalets are set apart in another section. It’s well thought out!
- there’s a sauna included
- breakfast and dinner are included
- wifi and parking, of course
- and loads of activities offered by the centre!
Prices start at around €400 for the igloos, and much less for the chalets.
The Northern Lights Village in Levi
Set out in nature in Levi, the Northern Lights Village is one of the great classics if you dream of sleeping in a glass igloo. It might not be the oldest or the best known (hello Kakslauttanen), but it’s clearly one of the highest quality and one of the nicest for watching the lights.
For one, the location is great: Levi is one of the liveliest resorts in Lapland, with a small centre full of restaurants, bars and activities, while the complex itself is hidden away in the forest. The result: you’ve got the buzz 10 minutes away, and total quiet when you step out of your bubble. And of course, the location under the auroral oval is perfect to maximise your chances of seeing the lights.
You’re really outside Levi, in true quiet as you can see in the photos. Levi is a very lively resort as I was saying earlier. For me, it was a surprise to discover that and I’ll admit it’s not my favourite Lapland resort. That said, here you get the perks of the town as well as the quiet of the village!
On the accommodation side, the focus is on comfort and modernity. Here, no “mini-igloos without a shower”, but straight away well-equipped Aurora Cabins:
- a heated glass roof that doesn’t frost over (essential!)
- a double bed facing the sky
- a small private bathroom
- and very cosy Nordic decor.
You’ll also find larger family cabins, perfect if you’re coming as a group.
The services are all there:
- breakfast and dinner included in the price
- an on-site restaurant with a wood-fire atmosphere
- a sauna, obviously (we’re in Finland!)
- free wifi and parking
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and above all a whole host of activities offered directly from the village: snowmobiling, dog sledding, reindeer, guided aurora hunts…
Budget-wise, count on between €300 and €400 a night for an Aurora Cabin, with meals included. Not cheap but not among the priciest either. The experience is magical and ultra comfortable.
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The Northern Lights Village in Saariselkä
The Northern Lights Village in Saariselkä is another must for glass igloo stays in Lapland. Located well to the north, in an area that’s perfect for watching the lights, it’s a place that combines wild nature and modern comfort.
What sets it apart from Levi? Here you’re more remote, quieter, with a real “end of the world” feeling. Saariselkä is a pleasant little resort, but the complex is set off to the side, in the forest, with no light pollution. A dream setting for looking up at the sky as soon as night falls.
Personally, I have a preference for Saariselkä because it’s further north and quieter. And I love their dense forests. That said, Levi being the most popular resort in Finland, it has plenty of advantages, especially if you want a bit of social life like bars and restaurants!
The accommodation is designed to make the most of this spectacle. The famous Aurora Cabins all come with:
- a heated glass roof that stays nice and clear
- a large bed facing north
- a private bathroom
- woody decor, with a Nordic chalet feel.
There are also more spacious family options, ideal if you’re coming with kids or friends.
Service-wise, you’ll find the same quality as at their “cousin” in Levi:
- breakfast and dinner included
- restaurant with local cuisine and a panoramic dining room
- sauna, of course (tradition demands it!)
- free wifi and parking
- and a range of activities offered right on site: husky safari, reindeer, snowmobiling, snowshoe hikes, guided aurora hunts…
Budget-wise, again count on €300–400 a night for an Aurora Cabin meals included.
Seaside Glass Villas in Kemi
A complete change of scenery with the Seaside Glass Villas in Kemi. Here, no snowy forest but… the frozen sea of the Gulf of Bothnia! Yes, you literally sleep facing the pack ice, with the chance to see the northern lights reflected on the ice. It’s a truly unique setting in Lapland, very different from the classic igloos.
The location is rather exceptional: Kemi sits on the coast, not far from the Swedish border, and above all just steps from the famous Sampo icebreaker and the SnowCastle, the huge ephemeral ice castle. Suffice to say that if you’re after an original winter experience, you’re in the right place.
That said, Kemi is located well to the south, further south than Rovaniemi, so I’d say it’s not the most perfect spot for the northern lights. If they’re really strong, you’ll have them right overhead, otherwise you’ll get them to the north, on the horizon. But the setting of Kemi and the Gulf of Bothnia is quite stunning!
The villas are modern and glazed on the sea side, with:
- a large panoramic bay window
- a double bed facing the ice and the sky
- a small fitted kitchen (handy if you want a more independent stay)
- a private bathroom
- understated, contemporary decor.
The big draw is obviously the view: pink sunrise over the pack ice, lights dancing above the frozen sea, or even the chance to see the icebreaker boats passing nearby.
On the services side:
- wifi and parking included
- breakfast served nearby (or the option to cook in the villa)
- access to the SnowCastle restaurant
- activities offered just steps away: cruise on the Sampo, snowmobile outing on the frozen sea, ice fishing…
For the budget, count on around €300–350 a night for a villa. It’s more affordable than the igloos in Levi or Saariselkä, and above all a different experience, focused on the sea and ice rather than the forest.
Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi
The Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos is the perfect combo of two polar experiences: sleeping in an ice hotel sculpted every winter and spending the night in a glass igloo under the northern lights. No need to choose, here you get both in the same place!
Located about twenty kilometres from Rovaniemi, on the shore of a frozen lake and far from the city lights, the complex is ideal for enjoying a clear sky. You’re out in nature, yet with the capital of Lapland within easy reach.
On the accommodation side, two atmospheres:
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The Glass Igloos: modern, comfortable, with a heated glass roof, a double bed facing the sky, a private bathroom and adjustable heating. Ultra cosy, especially when it’s -20°C outside.
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The SnowHotel: made entirely of ice and snow, with sculpted, illuminated rooms, each with a unique design. A constant indoor temperature around -5°C, but extreme-cold sleeping bags provided (and the pride of saying “I did it!” when you wake up).
The services are a real plus:
- wood-fired heated outdoor sauna and jacuzzi (perfect after an icy night!)
- 3 on-site restaurants, including an Ice Restaurant and an Ice Bar
- breakfast included
- free wifi and parking
- a variety of activities: husky excursions, snowmobiling, ice fishing, aurora hunting…
Budget-wise, count on around €350–400 for an igloo with breakfast, and slightly less for a night at the SnowHotel. Many people actually choose to spend a night in each to live both experiences.
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Private photo excursion in Riisitunturi National Park to photograph the snow-covered monster trees, with a wood-fired barbecue.
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Wilderness Hotel Muotka & Igloos
The Wilderness Hotel Muotka & Igloos is the perfect address if you’re after the balance between total immersion in nature and warm comfort. Set in Inari near Saariselkä, in the heart of the taiga, it’s a far more intimate place than the big resorts, with a real “end of the world” atmosphere.
What strikes you here is the absolute quiet. No big resort nearby, just the forest, the snow, and the boreal sky above your head. Suffice to say that for watching the lights, the spot is ideal: no light pollution, often very clear weather and a simply perfect location (far to the north, under the auroral oval).
On the accommodation side, the property offers several options:
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The Aurora Cabins (glass igloos): modern, cosy, with a heated panoramic roof, a double bed, a private bathroom and understated Nordic decor.
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The rooms and suites of the Wilderness Hotel: a woody feel, chalet style, some with a private sauna.
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The chalets: more spacious, perfect for families or those who want an isolated cocoon.
The services aren’t left behind either:
- sauna (tradition demands it!) and the option of Nordic baths
- breakfast and dinner included in the stay
- free wifi and parking
- a warm restaurant with a fireplace
- a wide choice of activities offered directly by the hotel: huskies, snowmobiling, reindeer, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, guided aurora hunts.
Budget-wise, igloo prices start around €200 with meals included, and less for the classic rooms. So it’s an excellent balance between an unusual experience and Scandinavian comfort, in a far more intimate setting than the big resorts.
Apukka Resort in Rovaniemi
The Apukka Resort is something of the ultimate base camp for experiencing the magic of Lapland without straying far from Rovaniemi. Located about ten kilometres from the centre and the airport, it offers the perfect combo: unspoilt nature, northern lights overhead, and all the typical activities of the region, with no complicated logistics.
What makes it unique is its unusual accommodation. Here, not just classic igloos:
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Aurora Cabins: small modern cabins with a glazed roof to watch the sky from your bed.
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Aurora Wagons: mobile cabins that can be moved into the forest or by the lake, for maximum privacy.
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Komsio Suites: inspired by traditional Lappish cradles, with a large panoramic bubble above the bed.
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And also wooden chalets and more classic rooms for those who want a cosy experience.
Service-wise, everything is designed for a polar immersion:
- breakfast and dinner included
- several saunas and outdoor Nordic baths
- an on-site restaurant blending local cuisine and a friendly atmosphere
- free wifi and parking
- a wide range of activities organised directly by the resort: dog sledding, reindeer, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and of course aurora hunting (they even offer an “Aurora Alert” so you don’t miss a thing).
Budget-wise, it starts around €350 a night with meals included. The unusual options like the Komsio Suites are a bit pricier, but the experience is truly unique.
Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
In the heart of Santa Claus Village, just above the Arctic Circle, you can also sleep in charming glass igloos. Here, the main draw is clearly the location: you step out of your bubble and you’re right in Santa’s village, with its reindeer, its shops, its attractions and of course the home of the man in red.
The igloos are modern and cosy, perfect for a polar experience while staying right next to the action. Each unit includes:
- a heated panoramic glass roof to watch the starry sky and, if you’re lucky, the northern lights
- a comfortable double bed
- a private bathroom
- understated, typically Nordic decor
The services offered:
- breakfast included
- on-site restaurant and all those in the Village within walking distance
- free wifi and parking
- activities right from the village: husky safaris, reindeer, snowmobiling, aurora hunts…
It’s a practical and magical option for those who want to experience the magic of Santa Claus while enjoying the boreal night under the stars.
But there are other types of accommodation in Santa’s village. You’ll find some really nice chalets at more affordable prices and above all the Glass Resort with luxury igloos in an insane setting!
Pyhä Igloos in the Rovaniemi area
If you’re looking for a more intimate spot, away from the big tourist resorts, the Pyhä Igloos are made for you. Located at the foot of Pyhä-Luosto National Park, about 1h30 from Rovaniemi, they offer a nature-focused atmosphere, much calmer and more authentic. Here, no crowds: just the forest, the hills and the Arctic sky.
The igloos are modern and well equipped:
- heated anti-frost glass roof
- comfortable double bed facing the sky
- private bathroom
- understated Scandinavian decor, cosy without the fuss
Their location is great for nature lovers: snowshoe hikes, cross-country skiing and walks in the national park all start right from the doorstep. And when night falls, it’s one of the quietest spots to watch the lights, far from artificial lighting. On top of that, the property is genuinely right at the foot of the slopes!
On the services side, you have:
- breakfast included
- sauna on site (of course!)
- free wifi and parking
- activities organised with local guides: dog sledding, snowmobiling, hikes, aurora hunting
The big advantage of this place is its price, far more affordable especially before the peak winter months, with prices starting at under €200!
Mind you, the “igloo” label is stretched a little here, as these are apartments with a wide view of the sky, but they’re not separate bubbles spread apart as we’ve seen before. Hence the more reasonable price, but if you look at people’s reviews, everyone is extremely satisfied!
The Pyhä Igloos are therefore the perfect option for those who want the experience without the crowds, in the heart of one of the most beautiful national parks in Lapland.
And quite honestly, even though I find it low in latitude compared with Saariselkä, my first time in Lapland was in Pyhä and I really loved it: the nature, the ski area, it was great!
Golden Crown – Levin Iglut in Levi
Set on a hill overlooking Levi, the Golden Crown – Levin Iglut probably offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views in Lapland. Here, the igloos are arranged facing the valley, with a completely clear horizon. The result: when the lights show up, it’s a grand spectacle.
The accommodation ranges from the small standard igloo to the premium igloos with a private jacuzzi. All are fitted with a heated glass roof, a double bed facing the sky and a private bathroom. The decor is modern, understated, with a touch of luxury for the higher categories.
On the services side:
- breakfast included
- the option of a gourmet dinner at the Utsu restaurant (panoramic view)
- free wifi and parking
- classic activities offered (huskies, snowmobiling, reindeer, guided auroras)
Budget: from €350 a night for an igloo, more for the versions with a jacuzzi. A genuine “wow” spot. And quite honestly, between the panoramic view and the price, it’s an excellent option! Especially as it’s ideally placed for the lights. Heads up, a real favourite!
In conclusion
So yes, it’s something that comes at a certain cost. No, we’re never 100% sure of getting the northern lights and the weather that lets us see them. That said, in Finnish Lapland these risks are very limited thanks to the quality of the sky, the surrounding nature, and a little nudge from the sun that means in Finnish Lapland you regularly see the northern lights.
But Finnish Lapland is generally a trip you make once in a lifetime (well, then again, once you get a taste of the far north…) so it would be a shame not to give in to this unique experience! By the way, you can take a look at the interactive map of Lapland to plan your stay.
Here are other articles from the blog that might interest you (heads up, there should be more in the coming weeks!):
- everything you need to know about Finnish Lapland
- The best activities to do in Finnish Lapland
- dog sledding in Lapland
- how to see the northern lights in Finnish Lapland
- Sleeping in a chalet in Rovaniemi – a little chalet lost in nature, fancy that?
- discover Kilpisjärvi in Finnish Lapland
- Want to go dog sledding in Rovaniemi? I give you the essential tips
- Planning a holiday in Rovaniemi – in this complete guide, I give you all the information you need for your visit!
