If you’re dreaming of a winter getaway where pristine snow blankets the landscape for nearly two-thirds of the year, where the hushed beauty of the Arctic night is punctuated by shimmering northern lights, and where adventure and tranquillity live hand in hand, then Ruka-Kuusamo in Finnish Lapland beckons.
At the edge of the Arctic Circle, this remarkable region offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in one of Europe’s longest and most enchanting snow seasons. Ruka-Kuusamo embraces families and thrill-seekers alike, bringing together snow-capped forests, rugged national parks, and a warm community spirit that feels both intimate and invigorating.
Mark your calendars for January 9 to February 2, 2026, when the Polar Night Light Festival returns to Ruka village. Known as the world’s northernmost light festival, it transforms the stark midwinter darkness into a radiant canvas of colour and imagination.
Photograph by Simo Vilhunen.
Think glowing ski slopes where torchlit skiers glide through magical light displays, while the crisp evening air hums with the excitement of snow races and family-friendly snowshoe walks.
As you venture into the forests on the Aurora Glow walking route, the fusion of artful lighting and the natural northern lights composes a hypnotic symphony of light and silence—an experience that lingers long after the final sparkle fades.
Photograph by Veera Vihervaara.
Ruka Ski Resort, at the heart of Ruka-Kuusamo, stands as Finland’s largest winter playground, boasting 41 slopes and 22 lifts tailored to every level, from first-timers finding their rhythm on gentle beginner runs to seasoned powder hunters seeking challenging descents.
Families are especially catered for, with the Rosa and Rudolf family park offering playful learning zones, magic carpets, mini jumps, and welcoming ski instructors who turn every lesson into a joyful discovery for children.
Photograph by Salla Karhumaa.
When little legs start to tire, cosy firepits, indoor play areas, and delicious slope-side treats like rich salmon soup and warming hot chocolate provide a perfect pause.
For those chasing thrills beyond the ordinary, Ruka Park has blossomed into an internationally recognised slopestyle mecca within Ruka-Kuusamo. Since its launch in late 2024, this state-of-the-art premium park has drawn elite snowboarders and freeskiers eager to perfect their craft on meticulously groomed jumps and rails, with the Swedish national team coach praising Ruka for its unrivalled training conditions—even when the weather turns.
Beyond the slopes, the true jewel of Ruka-Kuusamo lies in the timeless allure of Lapland’s natural wonders. As 2026 heralds a peak in solar activity, expect the Northern Lights to paint the night sky with dazzling intensity.
Photograph by Eeva Makinen.
Imagine settling into a reindeer sleigh ride through snow-clad forests, gently drifting under stars that dance with elusive green and violet hues. Or embarking on snowshoe journeys through Oulanka National Park’s tranquil wilderness, punctuated by shared wild-food dinners and traditional sauna evenings—a Finnish ritual that rejuvenates body and soul.
Accommodation here mirrors the region’s blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Choose from quaint wooden cabins within Ruka-Kuusamo that wrap you in cosy warmth, sleek apartments with panoramic windows framing snowy vistas, or luxe chalets boasting private saunas where the crackle of firewood meets the whisper of the winter wind.
Ruka-Kuusamo isn’t just a destination—it’s a place where the Arctic’s quiet magic is woven into every experience. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of fresh powder, the cosy glow of firelit evenings, or the spellbinding spectacle of the northern lights, this corner of Lapland promises an unforgettable journey into winter’s heart.
Visit www.ruka.fi for more information and to plan your trip.
Lead image courtesy of All About Lapland.
Photograph courtesy of the Ruka Ski Resort.
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