Hotel in Saariselkä, Lapland, Lapland
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
The world-famous glass igloo resort in Saariselkä wilderness offers the ultimate Northern Lights viewing experience from the warmth of your private igloo. The resort also features traditional log cabins, a giant snow igloo restaurant, and world-class husky and reindeer safaris.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is one of Finland's most iconic wilderness destinations, located near Saariselkä in Lapland, approximately 250 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. The resort's global fame rests on its thermal glass igloos — heated, transparent domes with curving glass ceilings that allow guests to observe the Northern Lights from the warmth of their beds. The igloos are arranged across a vast pine and birch forest, set well apart for privacy, with Saariselkä village just a few minutes' drive away.
The resort pioneered the glass igloo accommodation concept in the 1970s, setting a benchmark that has since inspired imitators around the world. Beyond the iconic igloos, the property offers traditional Finnish log cabins, smoke saunas, and the extraordinary snow restaurant — the world's largest, carved entirely from snow and ice each winter season and seating hundreds of guests beneath ice chandeliers. Accommodation options range from standard glass igloos sleeping two to premium log suites with private saunas.
Dining at Kakslauttanen centres on the snow restaurant during winter, serving traditional Finnish and Lappish dishes such as reindeer, Arctic char, and cloudberry desserts in a setting unlike any other. In warmer months, the main restaurant building takes over with a seasonal menu rooted in Lapland's larder.
The resort is the departure point for a broad range of Arctic activities. On-site husky safaris range from short introductory runs to multi-day wilderness expeditions. Reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile safaris, and ice fishing are also offered. In summer, the property borders Urho Kekkonen National Park, and guided hikes and wilderness excursions run from spring through autumn.
Service is tailored to international guests seeking a complete remote experience. Staff are multilingual and the resort operates its own activity booking and guiding services, removing the need to arrange third-party operators. The remote Saariselkä location makes the resort particularly suited to guests seeking genuine wilderness immersion rather than a resort-village atmosphere. Temperatures around Saariselkä regularly drop below −20°C in winter, and the dark skies provide excellent conditions for Aurora Borealis displays from September through March.
Amenities
- glass igloo
- log cabins
- restaurant
- husky safaris
- reindeer safaris
- sauna
- snowmobile tours
Visit / Book / Contact
- Official website
- Phone: +358 16 667 100
Location
Kakslauttanen, 99830 Saariselkä
68.1717, 27.0858 — View on map
Highlights
- World-famous thermal glass igloos with curved ceilings for Northern Lights viewing from bed
- The world's largest snow restaurant, seating hundreds beneath ice sculptures and chandeliers each winter
- On-site husky kennel with dog sled safaris ranging from short runs to multi-day wilderness expeditions
- Direct access to Urho Kekkonen National Park for summer hiking and winter snowshoeing
- Traditional Finnish smoke saunas and ice swimming for authentic Lapland wellness rituals
Tips
- Book glass igloos 6–12 months in advance for peak Northern Lights season (December to March) as they sell out very quickly.
- Request an igloo positioned on the far side of the resort for the darkest skies and best Aurora visibility.
- Bring high-rated thermal underlayers — temperatures in Saariselkä regularly drop below −20°C in winter.
- The snow restaurant only operates from December through April; confirm availability when booking for late-season travel.
- Summer visitors should pack insect repellent and a headnet as mosquitoes are persistent in July and August in the Saariselkä wilderness.
FAQ
Can the Northern Lights be seen from inside the glass igloos?
Yes, the thermal glass ceiling is designed for Aurora viewing from bed. The best chances are during dark nights from September to March; resort staff can alert guests when an Aurora display begins during the night.
Are the glass igloos available year-round?
The glass igloos operate from August through April and close in summer due to continuous daylight. Log cabins and suite accommodations are available year-round.
How far is the resort from Saariselkä village and Ivalo Airport?
The resort is approximately 5 km from Saariselkä village and 35 km from Ivalo Airport. Resort shuttle transfers from the airport can be arranged at the time of booking.
Is a reservation required for the snow restaurant?
Yes, the snow restaurant fills quickly and advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during the Christmas and New Year period. Reservation can be made through the resort's activities desk.
Accessibility
The glass igloo cabins are reached via snow-covered forest paths between units, which may present challenges for wheelchair users. The main restaurant and reception areas have level access. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the resort directly before booking to discuss suitable accommodation options and pathway conditions in the snow.
When to visit
Peak Northern Lights season runs from December to March, when dark nights and clear skies combine. September and October offer early Aurora displays with fewer crowds and good hiking conditions.