Finland stands out as the ultimate winter getaway, particularly during the festive season. Whether your goal is to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights or to enjoy the tranquility of a snowy forest, this enchanting nation is sure to captivate you in all respects. Located in the heart of Finland’s unspoiled Lapland region, the Aurora Queen Resort is the latest luxury destination, promising a truly unique experience. Surrounded by snow-covered woods and beautiful frozen lakes, this remarkable retreat serves as a gateway to the Arctic’s most mesmerizing natural wonders and pristine landscapes.
The Aurora Queen Resort is positioned in Finnish Lapland, a region celebrated for its Arctic allure and untouched wilderness. Specifically, it’s located near the village of Saariselkä, at the northern tip of Finland. The resort is enveloped in dazzling winter scenery and is close to Urho Kekkonen National Park, a breathtaking reserve known for its rugged terrain and extensive opportunities to explore the Arctic environment.
Reaching the remote Aurora Queen Resort takes some effort, but the journey is certainly worthwhile. Travelers can arrive from anywhere in the world by first landing at the international airport in Helsinki. Following their arrival in the vibrant capital, guests can take a 90-minute connecting flight to Ivalo airport. The resort provides a paid shuttle service from the airport, or visitors can opt to rent a car for the roughly 40-kilometer drive. The stunning and isolated journey to the hotel sets the stage for the magical adventure that lies ahead.
Upon arrival, the Aurora Queen Resort immediately captivates you with its ethereal ambiance. The crisp air carries the subtle scent of pine, coupled with an assurance of excitement and exploration. One of the resort’s standout features is its exquisite, custom-designed glass igloos. Each igloo, crafted with Scandinavian minimalism yet focused on ultimate comfort, serves as a haven of warmth and elegance. The transparent walls provide uninterrupted views of the Arctic sky, turning your room into a prime viewing spot for the enchanting Northern Lights, making you feel immersed in a living snow globe. Picture yourself snuggled beneath cozy blankets as the sky lights up with vibrant greens, pinks, and purples (interesting tidbit: the owners personally alert guests when the Northern Lights make an appearance). As passionate nature enthusiasts, the husband-wife duo, Nina Rantanen and Pasi Sivonen, prioritized eco-friendliness in designing the 18 standalone accommodations. They chose geothermal heating and solid wood materials, ensuring that their guests enjoy a stay that balances luxury with environmental consciousness. The igloos are also equipped with technology to adjust the temperature conveniently from Pasi’s smartphone.
The hotel is filled with thoughtfully arranged details that enhance the magical experience. From an exclusive fashion collection available only on-site to leopard print details on the dining napkins, the resort artfully marries chic style with playful elegance. Formerly the owners of one of Helsinki’s top home goods stores, Nina and Pasi have turned the property into an artisanal paradise. The entrance features a charming assembly of plush pillows and furs, reindeer antlers, custom furniture, brass lanterns, and winter sports gear. Every aspect is carefully curated to amplify the enchanting atmosphere, ensuring your stay feels both exceptional and worthy of social media sharing!
The resort offers a range of carefully coordinated activities that guarantee every moment is filled with wonder. Guests can partake in daytime or evening reindeer sleigh rides, guided snowshoe excursions through the woods, exhilarating snowmobile safaris, or thrilling husky-led sledding (it’s truly an exhilarating experience!). For those seeking a deeper connection with the land, options include ice fishing or joining a traditional Sami storytelling session while warming up with cups of hot cocoa around a crackling fire.
Then comes the Aurora hunting—the experience that inspired the resort’s name. Knowledgeable guides take you to optimal viewing locations while sharing intriguing insights into the science and folklore surrounding the Northern Lights. Witnessing this celestial marvel can be a transformative experience if luck is on your side. However, as any seasoned Northern Lights enthusiast knows, sightings aren’t guaranteed, even during peak visiting times (November to March). On evenings when the conditions are less than favorable for seeing the auroras directly from the hotel, Nina and Pasi can organize an aurora hunt (using various modes of transportation like vans or snowmobiles), as conditions in nearby areas may differ significantly.
All this excitement is bound to work up an appetite, and the Aurora Queen caters to your cravings deliciously. The resort’s on-site restaurant, AQ, elevates traditional Nordic fare, ensuring your culinary experience is blissful. AQ features dishes crafted from local ingredients, including Arctic char, reindeer, and wild berries—some of the menu highlights. Be sure to enjoy the chef’s nightly fish specials, which promise to delight the palate and create ongoing anticipation. Dining at AQ is more than just a meal; it’s a tribute to Lapland’s rich culinary traditions.
For those in search of supreme relaxation, the resort’s spa offers a haven of Arctic tranquility, perfect for wellness amidst nature. The sauna experience includes a private steam area and outdoor hot tub, allowing guests to unwind beneath a snow-covered sky. Whether you’re indulging in a traditional Finnish sauna or meditating in serene silence, the spa services are designed to rejuvenate both body and spirit.
The new Aurora Queen Resort invites you for a magical stay in the breathtaking serenity of Finnish Lapland. A visit to Finland during the holiday season presents a unique kind of wonder. As your time here draws to a close, you may find it difficult to leave this Arctic paradise. Memories of sparkling auroras, the soothing warmth of a private sauna, distinctive igloo lodgings, and the untouched beauty of Lapland will stay with you long after your journey has ended. The Aurora Queen Resort is not merely a destination; it’s a tangible winter wonderland. Whether your goal is to chase the Northern Lights, embark on an adventure, meet Santa and his reindeer, or simply seek peace amid nature, this Finnish treasure guarantees an unforgettable escape.
Image Source: Aurora Queen Resort @ Instagram
