This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Akaslompolo.
Akaslompolo, "The Village of Seven Fells," is a small village in the region of Kolari in Northern Finland, approximately one hundred fifty kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. It is inhabitated by only a bit over four hundred permanent inhabitants but is a very popular winter destination because of the excellent skiing facilities -- the fells of Yllästunturi, Kuertunturi, Kukastunturi, Pyhätunturi, Kesänki, Lainiotunturi, and Kellostapuli offer great slopes and the valleys between them have altogether more than three hundred kilometers of ski trails. Akaslompolo is also a favored destination for snowmobiling.
The summer in Akaslompolo is very quiet, though the Ylläs Soikoon music festival attracts crowds. In addition, both children and animal lovers enjoy a visit to the small Konijänkä Zoo and the midnight sun is an unforgettable experience for anyone living south of the Arctic Circle.
Connections from Finnish major cities to Lapland are frequent, including a night train to Kolari and a direct flight from Helsinki to Kittilä. Without an own car, Akaslompolo can be reached by shuttle buses which are running from the bus station, Kolari railway station, and the Kittilä airport to the Ylläs Ski Resort. Shuttle buses do not usually require a reservation but it is wise to check it in advance.
Thanks to the location next to one of the biggest ski resorts in Finland, there are plenty of accommodation choices in Akaslompolo and around, from hostels to rustic cottages and upscale chain hotels. The hostels in Akaslompolo are likely to provide a Wi-Fi and some of the properties have even a Finnish sauna, which should not be missed.
Written by local enthusiast for Akaslompolo hostels
Lotta Kauppi
