Self-guided Nordic skiing holiday in Finnish Lapland
In summary
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Sports
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Duration8 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationLapland / Finland
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AgeFrom 1 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions87.19 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
In the heart of Lapland's pristine landscapes , 250 km north of the Arctic Circle, the Kiilopää mountain center welcomes you for a complete immersion in an exceptional snowy setting. Just 30 minutes from Ivalo , this location is a paradise for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts, boasting exceptional snow conditions from November to May. Enjoy 300 km of perfectly groomed trails , both double-track and skating , or venture off the beaten path for a more rugged exploration. For an even more intense experience, activities such as snowmobiling and dog sledding are available at an additional cost. Instruction, primarily in English, will allow you to learn and progress while savoring the tranquility of the Far North . Whether you're a fan of skiing , winter hiking , or simply seeking an escape under the Northern Lights , this stay promises a complete change of scenery in the heart of unspoiled nature. Get ready for an unforgettable Nordic adventure!
The highlights
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A unique setting for cross-country skiing enthusiasts
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Unlimited access to saunas and outdoor baths
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Skiing trips under the Northern Lights
Photos
Sport
Level
Nordic ski touring
The expert's opinion
Several skill levels are available, from beginner to expert; good physical fitness is required. There are several ability groups; you can also ski alone or with friends. Classic or skating style is possible. The stable and cold snow conditions allow you to appreciate the glide of waxed skis, even if you're not an expert! Waxing at these temperatures is very easy and provides optimal grip and glide.
In figures
Nordic backcountry skiing
- Average duration/day: 4h
- Average daily elevation gain: 200 m
Management
Program
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Arrival at Kiilopää
- Transportation Minibus - 00h40 - 45km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Upon arrival in Ivalo, you will take a bus to Kiilopää (not included in the price of your stay). Once there, you will be welcomed at the center and shown to your accommodation, according to the package you selected. Dinner may be available depending on your arrival time, followed by an overnight stay.
Day 1 -
During your stay in Finnish Lapland
- Activity Nordic backcountry skiing
- Duration of the activity 4h per day
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Start your days with a self-service breakfast, featuring a generous Scandinavian buffet.
After a waxing session , set off to explore the 300 km of groomed slopes. You can choose between skiing independently or following a Finnish instructor for a guided tour of the area, alternating between groomed runs and off-piste terrain through the tunturi, the region's iconic mountains. Don't miss the information session at reception to find out about the week's activities.
In the late afternoon or evening, several activities are offered (at an additional cost): traditional sauna, swimming in a frozen lake, storytelling evenings, dancing or even pancakes in a Lappish hut.
For the more curious, excursions are possible: winter fat biking, ski touring, exploration of the snowy gorges or the forests of Urho Kekkonen.
End your days with a self-service dinner , where you can enjoy Finnish specialties such as salmon soup or reindeer stir-fry.
Days 2 to 7 -
End of stay
- Transportation Minibus - 00h40 - 50km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Your stay ends around 10am ( depending on your flight times ). You then take the bus back to Ivalo airport for your return flight.
Day 8
Accommodation
Kiilopää is a center where several types of accommodation are grouped around a central building offering food, a meeting point, etc. Whatever option you choose, you will be in comfortable and characterful accommodation.
Accommodation in a double/twin room is included in the price of the stay.
Access
► Start
Day 1 in Kiilopää
► End
The J8 at Kiilopää
Go to the starting point
✈️ Regular flights with Finnair (via Helsinki) or Lufthansa (via Frankfurt) to Ivalo Airport. From the airport, you can then take the bus to Kiilopää:
- Company: JM Eskelisen Lapin Linjat (also OnniBus on certain dates)
- Departure: in front of the Ivalo airport terminal (stop "Lentoasema")
- Arrival: Tunturikeskus Kiilopää station
- Frequency: approximately 4 departures per day, every day
- Journey time: approximately 55 minutes
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation in a 2-star hotel in a double room
- Half-board during the stay
- Access to the center's facilities
- The bed linen and bedding in the accommodations
The price does not include
- Practice equipment
- Supervision by instructors
- Lunch
- Personal expenses
- Drinks
- Bus transfers from Ivalo to Kiilopää: approximately €26 return per person
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website (https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/). If your flights have layovers with different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you will be transiting through. It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with all regulations, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return), visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. Don't forget to take into account any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country. ℹ️ Information may change up until your departure date, so remember to check official websites regularly.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Skating skis can be rented, but stock is limited and availability will depend on equipment availability at the time of your stay. Please contact us for details.
Equipment to bring
- A pair of cross-country skis ( width 38 to 44 mm )
- A pair of sticks ( with large washers )
- Warm cross-country ski boots
- 1L water bottle
- Sunglasses ( glacier type )
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Ski wax
Clothing to bring
- Cross-country ski equipment
- Over-trousers
- A jacket ( Gore-Tex style )
- A good pair of mittens
- Warm gloves ( 2 pairs )
- A hat or, better yet, a balaclava
- A thick wool mountain sweater or a fleece jacket
- A Gore-Tex jacket
- A down jacket
- Warm underwear ( bodysuits, tights )
- 3 pairs of good wool socks (avoid ribbed socks)
- A pair of jogging-style sneakers for the evening
- Change of clothes
- A toiletry bag
- A flashlight or a headlamp
- A camera
- A swimsuit
