Hotel in Apukka, Rovaniemi area, Lapland, Lapland
Apukka Resort
Apukka is an award-winning glass igloo and cabin resort on the banks of the Kemijoki River, just 20 minutes from Rovaniemi city centre. Guests can watch Northern Lights from their beds in private glass igloos and enjoy world-class dog sled tours from the resort.
Apukka Resort is an award-winning wilderness resort on the eastern bank of the Kemijoki River in the Apukka district, approximately 20 kilometres east of Rovaniemi city centre in Finnish Lapland. Accessed via a forest road from the main Rovaniemi–Sodankylä highway, the resort occupies a genuine wilderness setting on the frozen riverbank while remaining within easy reach of the city and Rovaniemi Airport.
The resort is best known for its glass igloos positioned along the river, each with a panoramic glass ceiling engineered for Northern Lights viewing. The igloos are heated to a comfortable temperature year-round and include a private Finnish sauna and a bed oriented toward the sky. In addition to glass igloos, Apukka offers riverside log cabins and forest cottages, giving flexibility for guests travelling as families or groups seeking more space.
The riverside location enables a range of activities closely tied to the landscape. Dog sled safaris — operated from the resort's own husky kennel — rank among the most popular, from short introductory rides to full-day expeditions into the Lapland forest. Ice swimming and sauna experiences on the frozen Kemijoki are available throughout winter. In summer, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on the river complement hiking and cycling in the surrounding terrain.
Dining centres on the main restaurant, which serves Lappish-influenced menus using locally sourced ingredients including Arctic fish, reindeer, and seasonal foraged produce. A riverside smokehouse barbecue operates during selected evening excursion packages, combining outdoor activity with a hot meal under the sky.
The resort's primary model is package-based: most guests combine accommodation, meals, and guided activities, and the service team is experienced in building bespoke Arctic itineraries for couples, families, and small groups. The combination of proximity to Rovaniemi city amenities and genuine riverside wilderness makes Apukka a strong choice for guests who want depth of experience without complete remoteness.
Amenities
- glass igloos
- riverside cabins
- sauna
- ice swimming
- husky safaris
- restaurant
- snowmobiles
Visit / Book / Contact
- Official website
- Phone: +358 40 830 0440
Location
Apukantie 56, 97130 Apukka
66.6033, 26.0667 — View on map
Highlights
- Heated glass igloos on the Kemijoki riverbank with sky-facing windows designed for Northern Lights viewing
- On-site husky kennel offering dog sled safaris from short introductory rides to multi-day expeditions
- Ice swimming and smoke sauna on the frozen river — one of Lapland's signature winter wellness experiences
- Only 20 minutes from Rovaniemi city centre and airport — wilderness without isolation
- Summer kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the Kemijoki River from the resort's own jetty
Tips
- Book glass igloos at least six months ahead for December and January; Aurora season accommodation fills first.
- The husky safari half-day option includes driving your own team with guidance — no prior experience is required.
- Ice swimming is weather-dependent; ask at reception about river ice conditions on arrival in early or late winter.
- Apukka's accommodation-plus-activity packages often represent better value than booking each element separately.
- Rovaniemi city restaurants and Santa Claus Village are 20–25 minutes by car, making day trips very straightforward.
FAQ
Is Apukka Resort suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the resort welcomes families. Reindeer sleigh rides, shorter husky safari rides, and ice fishing are among the family-friendly activities. The cabins and larger cottages accommodate families of four to six guests.
Can guests see the Northern Lights from the glass igloos?
The igloos are designed specifically for Aurora viewing, with glass ceilings oriented to the sky. Northern Lights are most frequent from September to March; the resort provides Aurora alerts when conditions are favourable.
What transfer options exist from Rovaniemi Airport?
The resort is approximately 20 km from Rovaniemi Airport. Transfer services can be arranged at the time of booking, or guests can travel by taxi or rental car in around 25 minutes.
Does the resort operate year-round?
Apukka Resort is open year-round. Winter season runs from November through April; summer activities such as kayaking and fishing operate from June through September.
Accessibility
The resort is set on riverside terrain with some uneven ground between accommodation units and activity areas. Accessibility for wheelchair users may be restricted in winter due to snow and ice. Guests with mobility requirements are encouraged to contact the resort in advance to discuss suitable accommodation and accessible pathways.
When to visit
October to March is the Northern Lights season and best for dog sledding and ice swimming. July and August offer midnight-sun canoe and fishing experiences on the Kemijoki.