Saariselka

Travel Guide

A snowy landscape with a clear blue sky, snow-covered trees, and a sledding track.
A snowy forest with a clear path.
A snowy forest with a clear path.
A vast lake surrounded by dense forests and multiple islands.
A ski lift at sunset with a snow-covered landscape.

Stay in Saariselka to explore ski slopes, panoramic views, and local architecture while enjoying nearby adventure spots.

Saariselka is an ideal destination for adventure and ski travelers. You can explore the Kaunispään Tower for panoramic views, visit the Pyhan Paavalin Chapel for a glimpse of local architecture, and experience the skiRun at Poro. For skiing, the Saariselkä Ski & Sport Resort Ltd offers extensive slopes, while several ski lifts, including Tuolihissi, Ankkurihissi 3, and Sompahissi, provide access to the snowy terrain. For relaxation, consider visiting the Aurora Spa & Pools to unwind after a day of activities.

While you're in Saariselka, take some time to explore nearby areas known for their outdoor experiences. Tankavaara is recognized for its adventure opportunities and is home to the Gold Prospector Museum and the Koilliskaira Visitor Centre. Another nearby place, Kakslauttanen, also offers a range of outdoor activities. Ivalo, known for its ski experiences, features the Ivalo River Beach and Ivalo Church, adding to the diverse experiences available in the region.

The best time to visit Saariselka is from June to August, when the weather is cool and mostly dry, with temperatures ranging from 51 to 57°F. Demand tends to remain steady throughout the year, but you may find it busier from November to January. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during April to June, when the crowds are lighter and the natural beauty is still very accessible.

Holiday Club Saariselkä Apartments

Holiday Club Saariselkä Apartments

4 out of 5
Saariseläntie 7 Saariselka
$194 nightly
The price is $220 total per night from Nov 13 to Nov 14
$220 total
Nov 13 - Nov 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Saariselka. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Saariselkä Ski ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (196 reviews)
"Fantastic find! The location is perfect and has easy access to a grocery store, transportation, and activities. Everything is in walking distance. The accommodations were very comfortable, very clean, and very well maintained. The restaurant food was INCREDIBLE, and the staff were exceptionally friendly ..."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Holiday Club Saariselkä Apartments
Holiday Club Saariselka

Holiday Club Saariselka

3 out of 5
Saariseläntie 7 Saariselka
$86 nightly
The price is $98 total per night from Nov 25 to Nov 26
$98 total
Nov 25 - Nov 26
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Saariselka. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Saariselkä Ski Resort and Aurora Spa & Pools ...
7.8/10 Good! (942 reviews)
"The hotel is undergoing major building repairs but this wasn’t explained when booking. amenities wise this meant there was only massage available. It could all do with an overhaul but perhaps that’s what’s happening. Breakfast was average. All Staff were excellent, friendly, helpful and ..."

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2026

Holiday Club Saariselka
Lapland Hotels Riekonlinna

Lapland Hotels Riekonlinna

4 out of 5
Saariseläntie 13 Saariselka
$137 nightly
The price is $155 total per night from Nov 14 to Nov 15
$155 total
Nov 14 - Nov 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this ski hotel in Saariselka. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Popular attractions Pyhan Paavalin Chapel and Aurora Spa & Pools ...
Lapland Hotels Riekonlinna
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Holiday Club Saariselkä Apartments

Holiday Club Saariselkä Apartments

4 out of 5
Saariseläntie 7 Saariselka
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Saariselka. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Saariselkä Ski ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (196 reviews)
"Fantastic find! The location is perfect and has easy access to a grocery store, transportation, and activities. Everything is in walking distance. The accommodations were very comfortable, very clean, and very well maintained. The restaurant food was INCREDIBLE, and the staff were exceptionally friendly ..."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Holiday Club Saariselkä Apartments
Holiday Club Saariselkä Superior Apartments

Holiday Club Saariselkä Superior Apartments

4 out of 5
7 Saariseläntie Saariselka
Stay at this aparthotel in Saariselka. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Aurora Spa & Pools and Saariselkä Ski Resort ...
Holiday Club Saariselkä Superior Apartments
Moitakuru a18 by Interhome

Moitakuru a18 by Interhome

Inari
Stay at this vacation home in Saariselka. Enjoy a sauna, laundry facilities, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Saariselkä Sport Resort and Saariselkä ...
Moitakuru a18 by Interhome
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Saariselka attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Saariselka worth visiting?
Saariselka is worth visiting for its unique attractions, providing travelers with distinct places to explore. Highlights include the impressive Kaunispään Tower, offering views of the surrounding area, and the serene Pyhan Paavalin Chapel, a peaceful site for reflection. Travelers can discover these specific points of interest during their visit.
When is the best time to visit Saariselka?
The best time to visit Saariselka is from June through August, when the weather is typically mildest. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good option, offering a chance to experience the destination during its cooler, snowy season.
What is Saariselka known for?
Saariselka is known for Kaunispään Tower, which offers travelers panoramic views from its setting in the Maanselkä. Travelers can also explore the historic Ruijanpolku trail and visit the serene Pyhan Paavalin Chapel. These sites provide a unique experience.
What is a good itinerary length for Saariselka?
A good itinerary length for Saariselka is two to three days to see highlights like Kaunispään Tower and enjoy a Northern Lights viewing. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can also explore Pyhan Paavalin Chapel and Ruijanpolku, plus take a Full-Day King Crab Safari to Norway. See Saariselka Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Saariselka?
Saariselkä offers thrilling arctic adventures and unique natural phenomena for travelers to experience:

  • View the Northern Lights and capture stunning photographs.
  • Embark on a full-day King Crab Safari to Norway, including lunch.
  • Go hunting for the Northern Lights by snowmobile.
  • Visit a husky farm and enjoy a husky safari.
  • Experience skiing and other winter sports at Saariselkä Ski & Sport Resort.

How do I plan a trip to Saariselka?
To plan your Saariselka trip, book flights, hotels, and a rental car early. Secure activities like Northern Lights viewing or a King Crab Safari in advance. Always have indoor backup plans for outdoor activities to ensure flexibility with changing weather, and consider visiting landmarks such as Kaunispään Tower or Pyhan Paavalin Chapel.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Saariselka?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Saariselka by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Saariselka with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Saariselka trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Saariselka?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Saariselka can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Saariselka trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Saariselka trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Saariselka trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Saariselka trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Saariselka?
If it's your first trip to Saariselka, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Saariselka hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Saariselka hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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