A top-class Arctic experience Praised for its welcoming atmosphere, spectacular igloo-like cabins and excellent service, Star Arctic Hotel in Saariselkä, Lapland, is the perfect place for a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime holiday. The peace and calm of the surrounding Arctic wilderness help the guests to relax, and the breathtaking view from the top of the fell to the surrounding nature leaves a great impression on everyone.
is plenty of that peace and quiet that so many come looking for. “Here at the top of the Kaunispää, you get to enjoy spectacular views and a feeling of calmness and space,” Muotka smiles.
By Mari Koskinen | Photos: Johannes Wilenius
Aurora borealis, the northern lights, is on many people’s bucket lists, and here you can often experience this stunning phenomenon right at the hotel area. “If necessary, we arrange aurora hunts, where we take the guests to the best spots by cars, snow mobiles or huskies,” Muotka promises.
Passion for Lapland is the driving force at Star Arctic Hotel. “Our guests come here from all over the world for an unforgettable holiday, like a honeymoon or anniversary,” says general manager Juha Muotka. “We meet them already at the airport and want to make sure to exceed their expectations from start to finish.” Muotka is originally from western Lapland himself, so truly the perfect guide for a tour around the hotel. Star Arctic Hotel is located at the top of the Kaunispää fell, 270 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. Here, the Nordic modern civilisation is perfectly inte76 | Issue 131 | December 2019
grated with Lapland’s own traditions and culture, which are surrounded by pure, untouched nature in a beautiful and unique Arctic landscape. The hotel was opened on 6 December 2017 – the same day Finland celebrated 100 years of independence. They were fully booked on the following day and have been busy ever since. The location of the hotel is perfect: Saariselkä Ski Centre, as well as the newly built 1.2-kilometre-long sledding slope, are just a one-minute walk from the hotel, and there is direct access to the ski slopes from the hotel. Yet there
Everything in one place “We have everything here that the guests need for a great Lapland experience,” Muotka continues. The hotel has 57 modern rooms, where wood is used to create a soft and cosy atmosphere. All rooms boast amazing views, and there are 15 exclusive Aurora Glass Cabins featuring innovative igloo-like glass