Summer and Beyond

Hiking & Trekking

In the snow-free season, Ylläs’ nature invites you to go hiking. The fells, forests, lakes, and free-flowing rivers provide the perfect setting for unforgettable excursions. A vast trail network of over 300 kilometers offers a variety of routes for people of all ages and abilities.

Walk along boardwalks, listen to birdsong and babbling mountain streams, and admire the dramatic scenery. In spring, witness nature awakening; in summer, experience the magic of the midnight sun when the sun doesn’t set at all; and in late summer, pick berries such as blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries. The mushroom harvest delights hikers in early autumn. As August turns to September, the landscapes are dressed in stunning autumn colors, as green gives way to fiery hues.

Did you know? In the snow-free season, Ylläs offers a variety of excursions – for example, midnight sun photography trips and guided day hikes in the fells.

Fishing

The clear lakes and rivers of Ylläs offer excellent opportunities for fishing. A peaceful moment on the shore or in a boat adds relaxation to your holiday, and your catch might include grayling, trout, perch, or pike. The nearby Äkäsjoki River is known as one of the best fishing spots in the Ylläs area. It is home to grayling, trout, and whitefish, and is especially popular among fly fishers. With its versatile rapids and calm stretches, the river provides great conditions for different styles of fishing.

About a 30-minute drive from Ylläs flows the Tornio–Muonio River, the largest free-flowing river in Europe, where you might be lucky enough to catch salmon. You can rent a boat, for example, at Luttunen’s backwater and head out for salmon trolling. Good shore fishing spots along the Muonio River include the Äkäsjokisuu area and Pakamukka.

Fishing combines the tranquility of nature with a touch of excitement – you never know what the next cast will bring. In Ylläs, several guided trips are available for anglers of all levels. Try fly fishing or even a salmon trolling course on Europe’s best salmon river!

Did you know? In Lapland, fishing always requires the proper permits. They’re easy to purchase at eraluvat.fi.

Sauna & Swimming

Sauna is an essential part of any cabin holiday – also outside the winter season. At AuroraCottage, relaxation is guaranteed, as every cabin comes with its own sauna. Most cabins feature an electric sauna, but a few traditional wood-heated saunas are also available. In addition, some properties include a hot tub or outdoor jacuzzi.

For a refreshing dip in clear fell waters, head to the swimming beaches of Lake Äkäslompolo or Lake Ylläsjärvi – check out our tips for the best spots!

If you’re looking for a more complete sauna experience, visit Arctic Sauna World at Lake Jeris. There you can try several different modern and traditional saunas and cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Jeris – a true experience! Another unforgettable option is the traditional smoke sauna, which offers the most authentic sauna atmosphere.

Did you know? Ylläs is home to a unique gondola lift with a sauna inside – and you can book it for your own group!

Northern Lights

The northern lights aren’t just a winter phenomenon – the first green and purple hues appear as early as late August, when the nights begin to grow darker. The clear autumn skies often provide spectacular light shows, best admired from lakeshores or other open areas free from light pollution. Sometimes you don’t even need to go far – you might spot the auroras right from the yard of your cabin. In some of our cabins, large windows open up directly to the sky, letting you enjoy the magic of the auroras even from indoors.

The northern lights are most visible on clear nights, statistically most often around midnight and the hours leading up to it. It’s best to look toward the northern sky, where they most commonly appear. You can also make use of aurora forecasts and alert apps that give you an idea of when it’s worth heading outside. Don’t forget to charge your phone and camera beforehand and dress warmly – autumn nights can be crisp.

Did you know? If you switch your phone camera to night mode, you can capture much more vivid photos of the northern lights than with the default settings. A tripod will help you get even better shots.

Photo Credit: Markus Kiili/Visit Ylläs

Other Activities

In summer, you may encounter reindeer almost anywhere in Ylläs, as they roam freely across the fells. They can often be seen along the roadside and sometimes even wander into yards – watching them is fun for the whole family. Just remember to stay alert while driving to avoid accidents with reindeer.

Craving some culture? Visit Särestöniemi Museum in Kaukonen to dive into the colorful life and art of Reidar Särestöniemi. At Kino Kellokas, you can catch a variety of films, and in September KinoYlläs offers open-air cinema under the northern skies.

If you’re tempted by a forest walk and berry picking, late summer brings blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries, while autumn offers mushrooms waiting to be gathered.

On a rainy day – or whenever you want to relax – Ylläs offers plenty of indoor activities and wellness services. Take a yoga class, book a massage, or simply enjoy cozy moments at your cabin with board games. For swimming, head to the Ylläs Saaga spa. Fitness enthusiasts will find gyms at FitnessGym Ylläs, as well as at Lapland Hotels Äkäshotelli and Saaga. Families with children will appreciate the free indoor play area Peikonpesä.

Did you know?
Just over half an hour’s drive from Ylläs lies Levi, where you can spend the day at the Water World spa or experience action-packed adventures at Levi Activity Park with its adventure, traffic, and trampoline parks.