Ruka Ski Holiday Resort

Ruka sits 80km south of the Arctic Circle, close to Kuusamo airport and the Russian border, in a region known for abundant and enduring snow.  A lively, upbeat resort with a newly developed pedestrian village offering good but widely spread cabin lodging served by the ski bus.

One of Finland's premier ski resorts, with the largest beginner area in the country, and a huge selection of activities on offer, Ruka is perfect for families. The slopes are quiet - even late in the afternoon you can take your pick of freshly groomed runs. The lifts stay open late, meaning you don't have to take a day off from skiing if you want to try other activities.

The slopes sit on two sides of a single low hill, with a mix of open and forest terrain, most floodlit and with snowmaking coverage. None is particularly steep and the vertical very modest - though there is a new FIS racing piste; as well as a terrain park and snowcross course. The cross-country scope is vast: 500km, of which 40km are floodlit.

Downhill skiing is mainly suitable for beginners and early intermediates although there are some steeper reds and blacks on the western side of the mountain.

At the base of the main slopes is car-free Ruka village where you'll find bars, restaurants and good quality hotels. Just outside the village centre are traditional log cabins, with wood fires and private saunas.