Ruka Ski Resort
Situated in the unspoilt beauty of the natural wilderness some 60kms south of the Arctic Circle and 20kms west of the Russian border lies Finland’s premier ski resort of Ruka. Ruka has guaranteed snow from October to May offering some excellent skiing on well groomed and uncrowded pistes. Cross-country skiers will relish the challenge of trying to cover the total of 200kms of trails amongst fantastic scenery and which are suitable for levels. In early season, days are shorter but more skiing is possible until 7pm as 23 out of the 28 slopes are floodlit and this is great fun. When the sun goes down, it is not pitch black as you will experience the atmospheric blue polar light and if you are lucky, catch a glimpse of the amazing Northern Lights (mainly between December and February). Later in the season, days are longer than in central Europe with lots of sunshine.
Beginners
A great resort in which to learn to ski as the slopes tend to be uncrowded. The Ruka ski school offers a “Learn to Ski” package and new recruits will learn quickly under the expert guidance of the friendly, English speaking instructors and should be skiing on most of the runs on the mountain by the end of the week.
Intermediates
The immaculately groomed pistes in the whole area provide plenty of scope to work on technique, ideal for the established skier with beautiful tree-lined runs and no lift queues. You will particularly enjoy the challenges of the red runs on the western side of the mountain.
Advanced
Expert skiers will have fun on the steeper red slopes and the black runs on the north and western side of the mountain. There is also a freestyle area, mogul field and some exciting off-piste though the trees.
Snowboarding
In addition to the pistes, enthusiasts can also ride on the three half pipes and a variety of jumps, hand rails and snow boxes in the snowboard park. Ruka was the host to the World Cup Snowboarding Championships in 2005.
| Approx Transfer Time |
25 minutes |
| Village Height |
295m (965ft) |
| Highest Lift |
496m (1,612ft) |
Apres Ski
When it comes to having a good time, the Finns are no slouches and Après ski is always a lively affair, with plenty of music. Try Ski Bistro, the Hotel Rantasipi’s après ski bar or the Riipinen Game restaurant.
Activities
Learn the technique of telemark skiing or take part in the activities organised by the local nature and adventure team. You can try a snowmobile safari across the frozen lakes and through the forests, reindeer safaris, husky dog sledding, ice fishing or even visit Santa Claus.
Other Amenities
The Ruka Club complex has a gym, four squash courts, indoor tennis and badminton, a golf simulator, saunas, Jacuzzis, solariums and a nursery. The nearby Kuusamo Tropikki has a fantastic range of pools and whirlpools to help relax any aching muscles.