Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara stands on the forested hill of Ounasvaara, just outside central Rovaniemi, and is part of a Lapland hotel group that runs several properties in the region. The appeal is the setting. Instead of being in a street grid, you are on a hill with forest trails, ski tracks in winter and views that open over the rivers and the flat forest beyond. The town is close enough to reach by taxi or bus in a few minutes, but the atmosphere is different, quieter and more outdoorsy, with the feeling of a mountain stay in a country that has few mountains. For travellers who want to walk out of the door onto a trail, or to watch the winter sky without city lights, the location is a real advantage, and it keeps you close to the nature trail and the lookout.
Location and getting around
The hotel is on Ounasvaara, a few kilometres from the centre, and you can reach the town by taxi, local bus or a longer walk or ski. Tour operators generally pick up from hotels across the area, but check that your chosen operator serves this address, since the hill is slightly outside the central pickup zone. Santa Claus Village and SantaPark are on the other side of town, so plan a taxi or a tour transfer for those visits.
Rooms and atmosphere
The hotel offers modern rooms with a Lapland feel, and the best of them have views toward the forest or the town. Facilities typically include a restaurant, a bar and a sauna, but confirm what this property has and any extra costs. In winter, the hill has cross-country trails and a small ski area, and in summer there are walking paths and a lookout. On a clear, dark night, the position away from the town lights can help with aurora watching, though you will do better on a guided hunt.
Who it suits and good to know: couples, active travellers and families who want forest on the doorstep, and people who prefer a quieter evening to a busy centre. If you plan to eat out in town most nights, factor in taxi costs, and if you are arriving by train, plan how you will get up the hill with luggage.
Winter is busy, so book early for December, February and the Christmas weeks. There are other Lapland Hotels properties nearby, including chalets, so check that you are looking at the right one, and confirm the current policies on breakfast, parking, pets and cancellation before you pay.
Why stay here
- ✓Hilltop setting on Ounasvaara
- ✓Forest trails at the door
- ✓Winter ski and walking tracks nearby
- ✓Views over the rivers and forest
- ✓Quieter, outdoorsy atmosphere
- ✓Taxi and bus links to the centre
- ✓Close to the Ounasvaara nature trail
- ✓Part of a Lapland hotel group
Good questions
Where is Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara?+
It is on Ounasvaara hill, a few kilometres from the centre of Rovaniemi. Taxis and local buses link it to town.
Can I see the Northern Lights from the hotel?+
On a clear, dark night the hilltop position away from town lights can help, but a guided hunt outside the area gives better odds.
Is it good for winter sports?+
The hill has cross-country trails and a small ski area in winter. Check current snow conditions and rental options.
