A tiny village far above the Arctic Circle, with glass igloos, wild fells and some of Finland's best odds of the northern lights. Here's what Saariselkä is like with the family, when to go and how long to stay.
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December brings Christmas, deep snow and only a little daylight, which is good for northern lights. January to March is colder, with more daylight for husky and snowshoe trips. September has autumn colours and the first auroras.
Sleep under a glass roof and watch for the northern lights from your bed.
Mush through the forest with a dog team, from short loops to full-day trips.
A quiet ride through the snow at a reindeer farm, which suits younger children.
A long sledging run down the fell beside the village. Sledges can be hired nearby.
Learn about the Sámi people and Arctic nature at Inari, about 40 minutes away.
Snowshoe or ski trails lead into one of Finland's biggest wildernesses, right from the village.
Yes, for families who want peace, snow and nature rather than a busy resort. It's small, safe and walkable.
Saariselkä is well north of the Arctic Circle, so on clear nights from September to March your chances are good. Nothing is ever guaranteed.
Fly to Ivalo, about 25 minutes away by transfer. Some winter charters fly direct from the UK, or change in Helsinki.
Yes. Several resorts and tour companies run Santa visits in December, though the village isn't as Santa-themed as Rovaniemi.
Put Saariselkä on standby with everyone's other ideas. You each spread your points in secret, get one veto, and the draw picks where you go.