About Ruka

Ruka is part of Kuusamo Lapland and is known as the gateway to Lapland.  Set just below the Arctic circle and close to the Russian border, Ruka has all the magic of a Lappish resort and becoming more popular with holiday makers and tour operators.  UK Operators bring tourists for skiing include: Inghams, Crystal and Thomson.

Both the summer and winter seasons offer a diverse range of activities and scenery.  Ruka is one of Finland's top ski resorts offering extended ski seasons.  While the summer enjoys the midnight sun and raw natural beauty.

Ruka highlights

240 days downhill skiing

Ruka's ski  season normally begins in the middle of October and lasts until June, thanks to 70 snow guns. During the past 5 seasons the slopes have remained open for an astonishing 200 - 250 days!

Cross Country Skiing

Kuusamo offers no less than 500km of cross-country tracks, of which 40km are illuminated.  Kuusamo is also home to the "border to border" skiing excursion - the longest in the world (440km).  The route starts in Kuusamo and ends in Haparanda, just across the Finnish-Swedish border.

Ice Climbing

Run by local safari companies, your guide will take you to cliffs made of ice for you to climb.  At the Korouoma ravine, a canyon 20km and 100m deep, you can enjoy the best ice climbing in the whole of Finland.

Ice Karting

Go karting, but with a chilly difference.  Speed becomes obsolete as technical skill is required to keep the car on the track.  Suitable for all ages.

Snowmobiling

Rent a snowmobile (driving licence required) or go on a guided excursion to enjoy 500km of snowmobile routes through snow-covered Arctic wilderness.

Husky Safaris

Get to know these beautiful dogs as you speed through the snow capped forest on one of the many safaris available from local companies. 

Santa

Located in the area that is home to Santa, it is possible to spot this most famous resident of Lapland in Ruka.  Santa has also been known to spend his summer holidays in Kuusamo.

Oulanka National Park

In 2002 three Pan Parks (Protected Area Networks) were founded in Europe. Oulanka National Park was one of them. The park is a superb hiking destination and features a variety of rare bird and plant species. 

Rafting

Numerous safari companies provide relaxed family trips to the rapids of the River Kitkajoki, while the rapids of the River Kuusinkijoki offer something for white knuckles. 

Fishing and Ice-Fishing

The summer season starts in early June at the many rivers surrounding Ruka and Kussamo, including fly-fishing.  Suitable for novice and expert fishermen or women.  Throughout the winter you can also partake in ice-fishing on local lakes.  Equipment is available from safari companies and no permit is required.

Golf

Play a memorable game of golf at 2am, with the reindeer and under the midnight sun at RukaGolf.  Winter golf is also available (with orange balls!)

Karelian villages and nature in Russia

From Ruka you can easily continue over the easter border of Kuusamo Suopara to Russia (requires VISA).  Here you can visit original Karelian villages and continue to explore the national park on the other side of the border.

In Summary

• Fantastic Winter destination
• Every form of summer and winter sport activity
• Shops, bars and restaurants
• Indoor and outdoor leisure facilities
• New hotels, restaurants and cabins planned
• Only 30minutes form Kuuasmo airport
• Regular flights from UK and Europe
• Easy transfers from airport
• Surrounded by nature
• Close to National Park
• Northern Lights

• Lower property prices than other resorts

Ruka Village Centre