Hotel in Inari, Lapland, Lapland
Hotelli Inari
The best-positioned hotel in Inari village, directly overlooking sacred Lake Inari with views across the vast water to the fells beyond. An excellent base for Sámi cultural exploration, lake boat tours, and Northern Lights hunting in one of Lapland's darkest locations.
Hotelli Inari stands as the most prominent lakeside accommodation in the village of Inari, positioned directly on the shores of Lake Inari (Inarijärvi) — one of Finland's largest and most spiritually significant bodies of water, held sacred by the indigenous Sámi people for millennia. The hotel's address at Inarintie 40 places it at the heart of Inari village, which serves as the administrative and cultural centre of Finland's Sámi population, home to the Siida Sámi Museum and Nature Centre, the Finnish Sámi Parliament (Sámediggi), and some of the most pristine wilderness in all of northern Europe.
The building presents a low-profile lakeside architecture that maximises views across the 1,100-square-kilometre expanse of Lake Inari toward the fells of the Hammastunturi wilderness reserve on the far shore. Inari village sits at 69°N latitude, making it one of the northernmost permanently inhabited settlements in Finland. The darkness of the Arctic night provides exceptional Northern Lights visibility from late August through April.
Guest rooms at Hotelli Inari range from standard doubles to larger family rooms, oriented to take advantage of the lake setting where possible. The lakeside terrace is the hotel's social centrepiece in warmer months, while the sauna offers the essential Finnish restorative experience year-round.
The hotel restaurant is considered one of the finest dining destinations in northern Lapland, drawing on local ingredients including freshly caught Arctic char and lavaret from Lake Inari, reindeer from Sámi herders, and seasonal Arctic berries. The restaurant's views across the lake complement the quality of the food, making it a destination in its own right for those travelling through the region.
The hotel operates boat tour services on Lake Inari, including trips to the historic island churches and fishing grounds of this vast archipelago lake. Guided fishing excursions allow guests to catch Arctic fish in a deeply traditional Lapland setting. The hotel can also arrange Northern Lights tours, snowmobile excursions, and connections to Sámi cultural activities.
Amenities
- lakeside terrace
- restaurant
- sauna
- boat tours
- fishing services
Visit / Book / Contact
- Phone: +358 16 671 026
Location
Inarintie 40, 99870 Inari
68.9000, 27.0267 — View on map
Highlights
- Unrivalled lakeside position directly on the shores of sacred Lake Inari with fell views to the far horizon
- Gateway to Sámi culture — steps from the Siida Museum, Sámi Parliament, and indigenous heritage sites
- Hotel restaurant renowned for Lake Inari fish, locally sourced reindeer, and Arctic berry desserts
- Boat tours and guided fishing on Lake Inari, one of Finland's most pristine and storied wilderness lakes
- Exceptional Northern Lights visibility from one of Lapland's darkest and most remote locations
Tips
- Reserve a room with lake view — specify when booking, as not all rooms face the water
- The Siida Museum is an essential half-day visit; it is walkable from the hotel and covers Sámi culture and the natural environment of northern Lapland
- Northern Lights are best viewed from the lake shore or from fell viewpoints accessible by snowmobile — hotel staff can advise on conditions
- Fishing trips on Lake Inari must be arranged in advance through the hotel; a valid Finnish fishing permit is required
- Winter driving between Inari and Ivalo can be hazardous in storms — check road conditions with hotel staff before setting out
FAQ
How far is Hotelli Inari from Ivalo Airport?
Ivalo Airport is approximately 40 kilometres south of Inari village, around 40 minutes by car on Highway 4. Taxi services operate between the airport and Inari, and the hotel can assist with transport arrangements.
Can visitors participate in Sámi cultural activities from the hotel?
The hotel is ideally positioned for authentic Sámi cultural experiences. The Siida Museum is within walking distance, and the hotel can arrange visits to traditional Sámi reindeer herding operations in the surrounding area.
Is Lake Inari frozen in winter and can visitors walk on it?
Lake Inari freezes solidly between late November and May in most years. Snowmobile trails cross the lake's frozen surface and ice fishing can be arranged through the hotel. Guests should not venture onto the ice independently without local guidance.
Does the hotel have sauna facilities?
Yes, Hotelli Inari has sauna facilities available to all guests — a standard amenity in Finnish hotels and an essential experience in this Arctic setting.
What wildlife might guests see around Inari?
The Lake Inari area is home to golden eagles, whooper swans, and ospreys in summer. Reindeer roam freely on the surrounding fells year-round, and brown bear and wolverine inhabit the wilderness areas, though sightings typically require guided expedition.
Accessibility
Hotelli Inari has ground-floor accessible rooms and step-free access to the reception and restaurant areas. The lakeside terrace has some uneven surfaces. Guests with mobility requirements should confirm specific needs when booking.
When to visit
September through March for Northern Lights and winter wilderness; June and July for the midnight sun and boat tours on the lake. October brings vivid autumn colours across the surrounding fells.