ホテル コルビカルタノ

Just got back from an amazing 7 day stay. The staff are welcoming, friendly and very knowledgeable and go all out to make your stay as good as they can. The free use of the skis, snow shoes and sledges make for a very good experience allowing you to go and do your own thing when not taking part in one of the many activities on offer. The activities are fantastic and these ranged from snow fun (learning the skis, snowshoes etc), snow shoeing and snow mobile in the dark, ice fishing and finally culminating in the Husky sled we would advise to do as much as you can you won’t regret it. The food is locally sourced and was very good. Various options at breakfast, normally soup at lunch and a 3 course meal in the evening. The meal is a set menu but mention to the staff any allergies, don’t likes etc and they will go out of their way to accommodate you. We had a studio room which was warm and cosy, due to the under floor heating. It had a small kitchen area including a kettle. We did take some extra coffees but there was no need to, there is free coffee and tea 24/7. The bathroom included shampoo and conditioner and a hair dryer. The lake is a minutes walk away and is perfect for watching the Aurora. We took a couple of kick sledges and went out onto the lake approx 200- 300 metres away from the hotel and lights etc. The sledges make it easier than walking and also provides a seat with no need to sit on the ice while you wait. We were lucky and and had 2 nights where the weather broke and we could see the lights. A tip is not to just keep looking in one direction, we were looking north and they appeared behind us at first before dancing around right above us. You do get some winter clothing to use, overalls, mittens boots etc. which are very good. We wore some of our own winter clothing underneath and these along with hand warmers kept us warm while we were either sat watching the lights or participating in the activities. The nearest town, shops etc are approx 35km away so you are literally in the middle of nowhere. If you go to the Sami museum you do get chance to do a bit of shopping. We would certainly recommend this hotel and hopefully in the future we will go back

This place is stunningly beautiful. It is very remote indeed. About 75 minutes from Ivalo Airport. The hotel is basic - more like a hostel - but the staff are brilliant - they know what they are doing and they are very helpful and friendly. Food doesn’t operate on a menu system - you have what is there, but it is plentiful and well cooked. Good quality cold weather gear is supplied - and you are likely to need it! We went out on the frozen lake on Snowmobiles last night and it was -26 by the time we finished. Unless you’re used to it, that is seriously cold. But we did get a good display of Northern Lights, so no complaints!