Santa's Igloos Arctic Circle

This unique accommodation offers a memorable Arctic experience, primarily known for its glass igloos that provide panoramic views of the sky, allowing guests to potentially witness the Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds. This makes it an ideal destination for sightseers and aurora hunters seeking a magical encounter with nature. The hotel is also well-suited for couples looking for a romantic and peaceful getaway, as well as families who appreciate the proximity to local attractions and the availability of kid-friendly amenities. Guests consistently highlight the friendly staff, the quality of the food, and the overall cleanliness of the property. To enhance your stay, guests recommend utilizing the in-room Northern Lights alarm system and taking advantage of the complimentary dinner main course offered.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's signature glass igloos are designed for an immersive experience, featuring panoramic glass roofs that can be heated to melt snow, ensuring clear views of the sky. Many premium igloos offer the luxury of a private in-room sauna or an outdoor jacuzzi, providing a unique way to relax in the Arctic environment. Guests appreciate the convenience of reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property, along with in-room amenities such as a mini-fridge, kettle, and complimentary coffee and tea sachets. A standout feature is the Northern Lights alarm system, which notifies guests via a tablet when the aurora is visible. Additionally, sledges are available for guests to use, making it easier to navigate the snowy paths, and outdoor fireplaces are often lit for a cozy ambiance.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the igloos to be very clean, well-maintained, and designed with a sleek, modern, and cozy aesthetic. The comfortable beds and high-quality linens contribute to a restful night's sleep. While most rooms are described as well-appointed, some guests have noted minor issues such as occasional cobwebs, a leaking hose in the bathroom, or a non-functioning mini-fridge upon arrival. The bathrooms are typically spacious and attached, though some are designed as wet rooms, which can lead to water on the floor. A recurring point of feedback is the limited hot water supply, which typically lasts for about twenty minutes before requiring a thirty-minute reheat time. Noise levels are generally low, but some guests in connected units have reported hearing sounds from neighboring rooms due to less-than-ideal soundproofing.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives high praise, with the breakfast buffet consistently described as very good, excellent, and offering a wide variety of options, including a popular DIY waffle station. Guests appreciate the selection of both traditional Finnish dishes and international choices. For dinner, the restaurant is noted for its delicious, high-quality, and well-prepared food, with specific mentions of dishes like elk, arctic char, and scampi risotto. While the food quality is excellent, some guests find the dinner menu to be somewhat limited, typically offering only a few choices for starters and main courses, which may not change daily. The dining service is generally efficient and attentive, though some guests have experienced confusion regarding the complimentary main course included with their stay.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location, being just a short five to fifteen-minute walk from the popular Santa Claus Village, making it highly convenient for guests to visit attractions without needing transportation. It is also well-situated near the Rovaniemi airport, typically a quick five to ten-minute drive away, and offers relatively easy access to the city center by bus or taxi. While the proximity to attractions is a major advantage, guests should be prepared for walking on snowy paths and potentially slippery conditions, especially when transporting luggage, as direct luggage assistance to the igloos is not always provided. Some guests also note that the light pollution from the nearby village can slightly impact the visibility of the Northern Lights from the igloos.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receive high praise for their exceptional helpfulness, friendliness, and professional demeanor. Guests frequently highlight their attentiveness, willingness to accommodate requests, and overall welcoming attitude, which significantly contributes to a positive stay. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and efficient, with staff often assisting with luggage transport to the igloos via golf carts. Specific services like the Northern Lights alarm system and assistance with booking tours are highly valued. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests have reported isolated instances of less-than-ideal customer service, including long waits during check-in, perceived unhelpfulness with specific issues, or misunderstandings regarding billing for the complimentary dinner.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that while the hotel offers a unique and memorable experience, the cost is often perceived as being on the higher side, with some guests feeling it is not always commensurate with the room size or amenities provided. It is important to clarify the details of the complimentary dinner upon arrival, as it typically covers only the main course, and misunderstandings have occurred. The hotel does not offer daily room cleaning during shorter stays, which some guests found surprising. For those seeking a truly immersive experience, the hotel provides outdoor fires where guests can gather, and it is recommended to bring marshmallows to enjoy this cozy activity.