Lapland Hotels Ounasvaara Chalets – Your Private Riverside Retreat in the Heart of the Arctic
🏠 Private saunas in some chalets | 🌊 Stunning riverside location | 🎿 Direct access to Ounasvaara ski trails | 🍴 Traditional Lappish dining | 🎅 10-minute drive to Santa Claus VillageOverview
Nestled on the peaceful banks of the Kemijoki River at the foot of Ounasvaara Fell, this 4-star getaway offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and rugged nature. You’ll be just a short distance from the bustling Santa Claus Village and the Arktikum Science Centre, making it easy to balance adventure with relaxation. The unique layout allows you to step directly from your terrace into the crisp Arctic air, providing a front-row seat to the dancing Northern Lights or the magical Midnight Sun.
Rooms
Your stay is defined by the cosy, high-quality timber chalets that provide a true home-away-from-home experience. Each chalet is designed with a focus on Finnish tradition and modern convenience.
- Private Finnish sauna in some rooms
- Fully equipped kitchenette with stove, microwave, and fridge
- Private terrace with river or forest views
- Flat-screen TV and wireless internet
- Twin beds with comfortable bedding
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Shower and hair dryer
Dining
Savour the authentic flavours of the north at Restaurant Thulia, where the menu is inspired by the pure ingredients of the Lappish wilderness. You can start your day with a hearty Scandinavian buffet breakfast featuring local berries and fresh breads. For those on a Half Board plan, evening meals offer a sensory journey through the Arctic, with dishes like flame-grilled salmon or reindeer served in a warm, wood-accented atmosphere. Dine just steps from the refreshing river breeze as you enjoy a glass of wine by the large windows overlooking the water.
Pools and Spa
While the hotel does not feature a traditional swimming pool, the wellness experience is deeply personal. You can enjoy the luxury of your own private sauna in some of the chalets, allowing for a tranquil end to a day of exploring. For a more traditional experience, the hotel offers a larger riverside sauna and a hot tub located right on the banks of the Kemijoki River. Please note that the use of the riverside sauna and any specific wellness treatments may be subject to additional charges.
River Location
The hotel is situated directly on the banks of the Kemijoki River, featuring a small, sandy riverside area that is perfect for a refreshing dip during the summer months. Access to the riverbank is within walking distance from all chalets and offers a peaceful spot for a picnic or to watch the water flow by.
Sport and Entertainment
Whether you are visiting for the winter snow or the summer greenery, there is no shortage of activity. During the winter, you can enjoy ski-in access to the Ounasvaara ski tracks or try your hand at snowshoeing and husky sledding. In the warmer months, the fell becomes a haven for mountain biking and hiking. After a day of thrills, the evening atmosphere is calm and inviting; you can relax by the lobby fireplace or enjoy a quiet drink on your private terrace while keeping an eye out for the Aurora Borealis. Activities may be subject to additional charges.
Family Amenities
Families will find plenty of space and excitement here. The spacious chalets are ideal for keeping the family together, and children will love the outdoor playground located within the hotel grounds. The proximity to the river and the surrounding woods provides a natural playground for little explorers to discover the wonders of the Finnish forest safely.
Attractive Location
- Kemijoki Riverbank: just a few steps away
- Ounasvaara Ski Centre: within walking distance (approx. 500m)
- Rovaniemi City Centre: approx. a 5-minute drive (3km)
- Santa Claus Village: approx. a 10-minute drive (7km)
- Rovaniemi Airport: approx. a 10-minute drive (7km)