As a local who’s lived in Ruka-Kuusamo for many years, I can tell you firsthand that this region in northeastern Finland offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and authentic Finnish experiences you can find anywhere. From the frosty winter wonderland to the long summer days filled with the midnight sun, Ruka-Kuusamo has something for every season, every adventurer, and every traveler.
Whether you’re coming for the incredible skiing, the stunning national parks, or the chance to experience true Finnish culture, this guide will show you how to make the most of your time here.
Getting to Ruka-Kuusamo
Getting to Ruka-Kuusamo is easy, but the journey is part of the adventure. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Kuusamo Airport, about a 30-minute drive from Ruka Village, the heart of the ski resort. Daily flights connect Helsinki with Kuusamo, and during peak seasons, you’ll find plenty of flights available. If you’re not in a rush, you can also take a bus or train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi (the capital of Lapland) and then connect with a bus to Kuusamo. But if you’re short on time, flying is the most efficient way to get here.
The journey to Ruka-Kuusamo is straightforward and scenic, with Finland’s endless forests and calm lakes creating a serene backdrop that sets the tone for your adventure.
Once you arrive, you’ll find that the main attractions are all within a short distance. Ruka Village is the center of the action, with the ski resort, restaurants, and accommodation options all just a stone’s throw away from each other. Whether you’re staying in a cozy cabin or a luxurious hotel, you’ll have no trouble finding a place to settle in and enjoy the stunning surroundings
Getting to Ruka-Kuusamo
Getting to Ruka-Kuusamo is easy, but the journey is part of the adventure. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Kuusamo Airport, about a 30-minute drive from Ruka Village, the heart of the ski resort. Daily flights connect Helsinki with Kuusamo, and during peak seasons, you’ll find plenty of flights available. If you’re not in a rush, you can also take a bus or train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi (the capital of Lapland) and then connect with a bus to Kuusamo. But if you’re short on time, flying is the most efficient way to get here.
Once you arrive, you’ll find that the main attractions are all within a short distance. Ruka Village is the center of the action, with the ski resort, restaurants, and accommodation options all just a stone’s throw away from each other. Whether you’re staying in a cozy cabin or a luxurious hotel, you’ll have no trouble finding a place to settle in and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Winter at Ruka-Kuusamo: Skiing, Snowboarding, and More
Winter is the time when Ruka-Kuusamo truly shines. The region transforms into a snowy playground, offering a wide variety of activities to suit all kinds of adventurers. From skiing and snowboarding to husky safaris and snowmobiling, here’s everything you can experience in Ruka-Kuusamo during the winter months:
Skiing and Snowboarding at Ruka Ski Resort
Ruka Ski Resort is the crown jewel of winter sports in the region. Offering more than 30 slopes and 13 ski lifts, Ruka caters to all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. The resort has a reputation for excellent snow coverage, with skiing available from late October to early May—a rarity in many European ski resorts.
What I love most about skiing at Ruka is the laid-back atmosphere. Unlike larger resorts in Europe, the slopes here never feel crowded, and the lines at the lifts are rarely long. You can easily spend your day gliding down the slopes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, which is a big reason why I enjoy skiing here so much.
The resort has something for everyone: well-groomed slopes for beginners, challenging runs for advanced skiers, and a fun snow park for freestyle lovers. For families, Rosa & Rudolf Family Park, Finland’s largest ski area for children and beginners, is a highlight. Located near Ski Bistro, it’s the perfect place for young skiers to learn and have fun in a safe and playful environment, making it a favorite spot for families visiting Ruka.
After a few runs, I recommend heading to one of the many cozy mountain cafes for a warm cup of hot chocolate paired with a korvapuusti (a Finnish cinnamon bun). If you’re at the summit, don’t miss the upcoming BASE Eat & Heat, set to open in December 2024. This scenic spot will combine delicious food with the unique experience of a sauna at the top of the fell. It’s the perfect way to relax and recharge before heading back out to enjoy more of what Ruka has to offer.
Other Winter Activities
Aside from skiing, snowboarding, and aurora watching, winter in Ruka-Kuusamo offers several unique outdoor experiences that let you immerse yourself in the Arctic wilderness. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a more peaceful retreat, here’s a rundown of the best winter activities to try:
Snowmobiling: A Thrilling Adventure Across the Arctic Wilderness
One of the most exciting ways to explore the snowy landscapes of Ruka-Kuusamo is on a snowmobile safari. If you’ve never ridden a snowmobile before, don’t worry! Our guided snowmobile tours are perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike. We’ll give you full instructions on how to safely operate the snowmobile before we hit the trails, so you’ll feel confident and ready to go.
As a local and guide, I can tell you—snowmobiling is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the wild, vast landscapes around Ruka-Kuusamo. You’ll zoom across frozen lakes, cut through dense forests, and enjoy views that are simply inaccessible by any other means. It’s an adrenaline rush like no other!
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to try a snowmobile safari, I highly recommend booking a guided snowmobile tour. Our Arctic Snowmobile Adventure will take you to some of the most scenic spots in the area, where you’ll get to explore hidden corners of the wilderness and enjoy some unforgettable views. Trust me, this is an adventure you won’t forget!
Husky Safaris: Mush Your Own Team
There’s something magical about being pulled through the snow by a team of enthusiastic huskies. These dogs are born to run, and their excitement is infectious. On a husky safari, you’ll glide through forests and across open snowfields, experiencing Lapland in a truly unique way.
You’ll also get to spend time with the huskies and their mushers, learning about the centuries-old tradition of dog sledding. If you’ve never driven a sled before, you’ll have the chance to learn—driving your own team of huskies is an experience you won’t forget.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: Explore at Your Own Pace
If you’re looking for something a little more peaceful, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are fantastic options. Ruka-Kuusamo is surrounded by stunning trails, many of which wind through the pristine beauty of Oulanka National Park. Picture yourself walking past frozen rivers and lakes, surrounded by silence except for the crunch of snow beneath your feet.
Snowshoeing is great for exploring off the beaten path, while cross-country skiing allows you to cover longer distances. Guided snowshoe tours are available if you’d like to learn about the local flora and fauna as you explore.
Visit Santa Claus: A Magical Experience
If you’re traveling with children—or are simply young at heart—a visit to Santa Claus in Ruka-Kuusamo is a must. While Rovaniemi is renowned as Santa’s official hometown, Ruka offers its own enchanting experiences. You can meet Santa himself, listen to his captivating stories, and even assist his elves with festive tasks like baking gingerbread cookies and crafting Christmas cards. These interactive activities provide a magical touch to your holiday, It’s a memory that will make your family trip even more special.
Reindeer Farm Visits: Meet Lapland’s Icons
No trip to Lapland would be complete without a visit to a reindeer farm. Ruka-Kuusamo is home to several family-run farms where you can learn about the traditional way of life and the role of reindeer in local culture.
During your visit, you’ll get to feed the reindeer, learn how to lasso like a herder, and even take a reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy landscape. It’s a peaceful, magical experience that feels like stepping into a winter fairy tale.
Chasing the Northern Lights
One of the most magical things about winter in Ruka-Kuusamo is the chance to see the northern lights. With the region’s clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution, Ruka-Kuusamo is one of the best places to witness the aurora borealis. On clear nights, you can see the lights dancing in the sky, painting it in shades of green, pink, and purple.
If you want to maximize your chances of seeing the lights, consider joining one of our Northern Lights tours. We’ll take you to the best spots, where you can relax around a campfire and wait for the show to begin. It’s a magical experience, and trust me, it’s worth staying up late for!
Exploring the National Parks Around Ruka-Kuusamo
Ruka-Kuusamo is surrounded by some of Finland’s most spectacular national parks, each offering unique landscapes and opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Oulanka National Park
Perhaps the most famous in the region, Oulanka National Park is a paradise for hikers, snowshoers, and nature lovers. In winter, the park is transformed into a snowy wonderland. Trails like the Kiutaköngäs Rapids trail are perfect for exploring the beauty of frozen rivers, snow-dusted forests, and icy waterfalls.
Oulanka is also part of the iconic Karhunkierros Trail (Bear’s Trail), which offers breathtaking views year-round.
Riisitunturi National Park
Known for its magical winter landscapes, Riisitunturi National Park is a favorite for photographers. The park’s snow-laden trees, known as “tykky,” create an otherworldly atmosphere that feels straight out of a fantasy novel. It’s a quieter alternative to Oulanka, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Hossa National Park
A bit further from Ruka-Kuusamo, Hossa National Park is a must-visit for its pristine wilderness and ancient rock paintings. In winter, the park’s trails are ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, taking you through untouched Arctic beauty and serene landscapes that feel worlds away from the hustle of everyday life.
Summer in Ruka
While Ruka is famous for its winters, summer unveils a completely different kind of beauty. The midnight sun bathes the region in endless daylight, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking trails like the Karhunkierros Trail (Bear’s Trail) offer breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and waterfalls. For water enthusiasts, paddling along the tranquil Oulanka River, casting a line in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kitka (Europe’s cleanest lake), or exploring the lakes by canoe provide unforgettable experiences. Thrill-seekers will love Ruka’s Bike Park and the exciting new alpine coaster and mountain carts, set to debut in 2025.
But summer in Ruka isn’t just about adventure—it’s also about slowing down. Stroll through forests filled with wild blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries, or relax in a lakeside cabin and enjoy the serene Arctic scenery.
We’ll dive deeper into summer adventures in another blog, so stay tuned for more tips and inspiration!
Where to Stay and Eat
Ruka Village offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets, from cozy hostels to luxurious log cabins with private saunas. Many options are ski-in, ski-out, so you’ll have easy access to the slopes and activities. For a more tranquil setting, lakeside cottages just outside the village offer peaceful retreats surrounded by nature, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Ruka. The dining scene combines hearty local favorites with refined options. Don’t miss the chance to visit Restaurant Tapio, which earned a Michelin star in 2024 for its creative take on Finnish cuisine using local ingredients. For a more casual bite, the cafes and bistros in the village serve comforting classics like reindeer stew and fresh berry pastries.
What’s New in Ruka-Kuusamo
Ruka-Kuusamo is constantly evolving to offer visitors fresh experiences. Highlights include:
- Finland’s First Alpine Coaster: Opening in summer 2025, this gravity-powered ride will offer a thrilling descent from the fell’s summit, giving visitors a new way to experience Ruka in the warmer months.
- Mountain Carts: Also debuting in 2025, these carts will allow adventurers to race down existing gravel paths, adding a dash of excitement to summer exploration.
- Upgraded Ruka Park: The revamped freestyle skiing and snowboarding park now meets international competition standards, featuring modern snowmaking systems and eco-friendly LED lighting.
These additions ensure Ruka-Kuusamo remains a top destination for year-round adventure.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
A trip to this Arctic wonderland is more than just a getaway—it’s an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and moments of pure magic. Whether it’s skiing down uncrowded slopes, chasing the northern lights, or meeting Santa himself, every experience here is as unique as the snowflakes that blanket the region.
If this sounds like the kind of adventure you’ve been dreaming of, take a look at our other blogs for more inspiration and insider tips. When you’re ready, let us help you plan your perfect getaway. Our tailor-made tours offer everything from thrilling snowmobile safaris to peaceful reindeer sleigh rides, ensuring every detail is designed with your adventure in mind.
So, what are you waiting for? Your Arctic escape is just a step away. Let’s make it happen!
