In the heart of Finnish Lapland, where snow-covered landscapes and the promise of Northern Lights paint the sky, lies Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort—a destination that had long been on my bucket list. In January, I embarked on a journey to experience the iconic glass igloos, seeking a unique adventure amid the winter wonderland.

Lapland in January is a realm cloaked in darkness, where the sun makes a fleeting appearance before noon, casting a surreal glow on the pristine snow-covered landscape. The limited daylight, a consequence of the polar night, painted a canvas twilight, transforming Kakslauttanen into a fairytale haven.

Getting to Kakslauttanen

I boarded a two-hour flight from Helsinki to Ivalo airport, the closest major airport to Kakslauttanen, which boasts daily service on Finnair. The flight traversed the snowy expanse, landing me in the Arctic Circle, where the enchanting Kakslauttanen awaited. A pre-booked shuttle bus from the airport took us to the resort, split into east and west villages, showcasing the snow-covered countryside and setting the tone for the extraordinary stay ahead.

Kakslauttanen Accommodations

Divided into the East and West Village, Kakslauttanen offers a variety of accommodations, from traditional log cabins to the renowned glass igloos. The East Village, with its historical roots as a simple roadside café, exuded a traditional charm, while the West Village boasted a more adventurous spirit, complete with a uniquely designed celebration hall and a Santa Claus house.

Kakslauttanen Glass Igloos Experience

Our 2-nights stay in one of the glass igloos was nothing short of magical, even though the weather conditions thwarted our hopes of witnessing the Northern Lights. The igloos, while not opulent, provided a cozy retreat with odd zebra-print blankets and a distinctive touch of red in the interior design. However, it's worth noting that the lack of amenities like private showers in the igloos may surprise some visitors.

Activities and Excursions

Despite the absence of the Aurora Borealis during our visit, we filled our days with thrilling activities. Opting for a husky sledding excursion with a local provider, we marveled at the snowy landscapes, a stark contrast to the dark winter days where the sun made a brief appearance before noon.

Sauna Experience

The communal sauna, at the time being with a gender separation, turned into a unique bonding experience. We decided to share the sauna with another mixed group, turning an ordinary evening ritual into a memorable social event, showcasing the warmth not just of the sauna but also of the people we met.

Dining at Kakslauttanen

While the resort's food was basic, with a set three-course dinner included in the accommodation price, it didn't quite live up to the expectations set by the overall experience. Breakfast, a highlight of hotel stays for many, left much to be desired.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is a place where the simplicity of accommodations meets the enchantment of Lapland's winter landscape. Despite the lack of luxury and basic amenities, the resort's unique offerings and the chance to sleep beneath the Arctic sky make it an experience that lingers in memory. While the prices may seem steep, the sheer magic of Kakslauttanen ensures that it remains a dream destination, worthy of a return visit to chase the elusive Northern Lights and relive the Arctic adventure.