Despite their location above the Arctic Circle, getting to Ylläs and Levi is easy. Kittilä Airport, just 15 minutes from Levi and 30 minutes from Ylläs, offers direct flights from Helsinki and several major European cities such as London, Paris, Düsseldorf, and Zurich.

For a slower and more scenic journey, the overnight train from Helsinki to Kolari or Helsinki to Rovaniemi, followed by a bus transfer, provides an immersive experience through snowy Lapland. From Rovaniemi, a direct bus (2 to 3 hours) or a rental car also allows easy access to the resorts, with roads winding through forests and hills, offering a first glimpse of the Arctic landscape.

Located in Finnish Lapland, 160 kilometers north of Rovaniemi, Ylläs is Finland’s largest winter sports resort. It spreads around Mount Ylläs, which rises to 718 meters. A scenic road connects the villages of Ylläsjärvi and Äkäslompolo, providing easy access to the ski slopes on both sides of the mountain.

While Levi attracts many visitors with its modern facilities and lively atmosphere, Ylläs charms travelers with its authenticity and pristine wilderness. Featuring Finland’s largest ski area and extensive cross-country skiing trails winding through forests and fells, Ylläs offers a more intimate experience, closer to nature.

Less crowded than Levi, it guarantees a peaceful atmosphere – perfect for watching the Northern Lights away from light pollution. Enthusiasts of off-the-beaten-path winter activities – snowshoeing, dog sledding, or Nordic skiing – will find Ylläs an ideal destination to combine sport, relaxation, and a deep immersion in the Arctic world. Moreover, the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, Finland’s third largest national park, is located nearby.

Experience one of the most iconic adventures in Finnish Lapland with a husky sled excursion in Ylläs. During a 10 km ride, let a team of enthusiastic huskies guide you through postcard-perfect snowy landscapes. After a briefing on driving techniques and safety instructions, you’ll have the chance to alternate between the musher’s position – standing at the back of the sled – and that of a comfortably seated passenger.

At the end of your adventure, you’ll of course have the opportunity to give the dogs some well-deserved cuddles as a thank-you. Be warned – you might not want to leave, as these dogs are simply irresistible! We highly recommend booking in advance to ensure your spot, as husky sledding is always in high demand.

Discover the magic of the Far North with a reindeer sleigh safari in Ylläs – a traditional and authentic experience not to be missed in Lapland. On a 2 to 4 km route, you’ll sit comfortably in a sleigh gliding silently through snow-covered forests and Arctic landscapes.

Slower-paced than dog sledding, this activity offers a unique opportunity to fully enjoy the peace of the Nordic wilderness. Guided by a local herder, you’ll learn more about reindeer husbandry and their historical role in Lapland’s way of life. Did you know that, in the past, they were used to deliver mail in the Ylläs region?

Whether you’re travelling as a family or a couple, this tour is a must-do winter experience in Ylläs. And just like dog sledding, be sure to book in advance to secure your spot!

Travelers from all over the world come to Lapland to witness the fascinating spectacle of the Northern Lights. In Ylläs, the chances of seeing them are particularly high thanks to the village’s location on the southern edge of the auroral oval and the naturally dark surroundings. To enhance visibility, streetlights are even turned off each evening from 10 p.m., from October to March.

Sometimes, you don’t even have to go far to see this phenomenon – you can admire it right from your own yard. However, for the best views and stunning photos, it’s better to head to an open space with a clear view to the north. Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi Lakes are particularly popular spots, as are the nearby fell summits.

To maximize your chances of witnessing this unique moment, there’s nothing like going with a guide. With their expertise and knowledge, they’ll take you to the right place at the right time.

Want to know more? Check out our article: Where and When to See the Northern Lights in Lapland?

The SnowVillage in Ylläs is a must-see attraction to experience the magic of Finnish Lapland. Each winter, this ephemeral hotel, built entirely from ice and snow, features hand-carved rooms and unique artistic decorations that change every year.

The visit allows you to explore the ice and snow artworks, admire the artistic details of the sculptures, and discover the ice bar – all in a magical setting in the heart of the Arctic wilderness. Located close to ski slopes and snowshoeing trails, the SnowVillage offers a unique and spectacular experience, perfect for a family outing or a trip with friends.

The Ylläs National Park, one of the largest and most pristine in Finland, is a true playground for nature and adventure lovers. Moreover, the air you breathe here is considered the purest in the world! From the top of Ylläs’ seven tunturis (fells), Arctic landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. You can easily set out to explore these hills by following trails specially designed for snowshoeing. Snowshoes are a great option for a winter hike, as they provide support in soft snow where regular shoes would sink in. Snowshoeing is easy and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.

And there’s nothing better than going with an experienced guide to venture beyond the usual paths – they will share insights about the local wildlife and flora in an utterly wild setting.

Ice fishing is much more than just a winter activity – it is a tradition deeply rooted in the culture of the people of northern Finland. For generations, Lappish communities have relied on frozen lakes for food and family gatherings, making this practice an essential part of their lifestyle and heritage.

Accompanied by a local guide, you will drill a hole in the ice of a frozen lake and try to catch your own fish – with a little luck, you might land perch or whitefish. This activity allows you to discover traditional fishing techniques while enjoying the silence and beauty of the Arctic landscapes. It’s an ideal experience for those looking to combine adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery during their stay in Ylläs.

Staying in a traditional wooden chalet in Ylläs offers a warm and intimate setting surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Picture yourself in your cozy log cottage, warming up by the fireplace – or even better, in your private sauna! Indeed, the sauna is the perfect way to relax after a full day of outdoor activities. With around 3 million saunas for a population of 5.5 million, it’s clear that this is a deeply rooted tradition in Finnish culture. And if you’re brave enough to step out onto the terrace for some fresh air between sauna sessions, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights (weather permitting, of course!).

Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends, enjoy our package in a traditional chalet, just a stone’s throw from Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. Private guide, a full program of activities, and seamless logistics – everything you need to make your holiday in the heart of Finnish Lapland truly unforgettable! More info at this link.