Star Arctic Hotel & Activities

The hotel offers a memorable Arctic retreat, distinguished by its hilltop location that provides breathtaking panoramic views, making it an exceptional spot for Northern Lights viewing and offering direct ski-in/ski-out access. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff service, the wide array of well-organized activities, the comfortable and clean accommodations, and the high-quality dining experience. This makes the hotel an ideal destination for aurora seekers, winter sports enthusiasts, couples desiring a romantic and adventurous getaway, and families looking for a magical winter experience. To ensure a seamless stay, it is advisable to book activities in advance due to their popularity, and consider renting a car for greater flexibility in exploring the surrounding area.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the convenience of various on-site amenities designed for comfort and adventure. Many rooms feature a private sauna, providing a perfect way to relax after a day in the cold, with some suites also including a jacuzzi. The hotel provides comprehensive thermal suits, boots, gloves, and socks for all guests, ensuring warmth during outdoor activities, complemented by a useful drying cupboard in the rooms. For recreation, free toboggans are available for guests to enjoy the nearby slopes. The reception operates 24/7, and a dedicated excursions desk assists with activity bookings. Some accommodations are equipped with a small kitchenette, featuring an induction hob, microwave, fridge, and coffee machine, allowing for light meal preparation. The main building offers a spacious and cozy reception and restaurant area, which includes a bar.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel rooms are consistently praised for their cleanliness and overall comfort, described as spotless, well-maintained, and modern. Accommodations range from compact yet functional spaces to more spacious suites, all designed to be cozy and warm. Most guests find the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some have noted issues with uncomfortable mattresses or separate mattresses that can create a gap. In-room amenities include a coffee maker, minibar, safe, and a convenient drying cupboard. Underfloor heating keeps rooms toasty, and toiletries are provided. While many rooms offer stunning valley views or sky views through floor-to-ceiling windows, some guests in glass cabins noted light pollution from outside lights could affect aurora viewing. Bathrooms are generally modern and well-equipped, with some featuring private saunas, though a few found the wet room design could lead to water spreading. Noise levels are generally peaceful, but some guests occasionally heard neighbors or wind. Many rooms feature steep stairs leading to loft beds.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives high praise, particularly the breakfast buffet, which is described as generous, delicious, and offering a wide variety of high-quality options. Guests appreciate the fresh selection, including various breads, cold meats, cheeses, eggs, bacon, sausages, and hash browns, along with cereals, fruits, and desserts. While the breakfast spread is extensive, some long-stay guests found the options could become repetitive, and a few noted that coffee quality could be improved. The restaurant offers excellent dinner options, often featuring a set menu with a choice of two main courses, focusing on high-quality, tasty local cuisine like fish and reindeer. The dinner is often described as a fine dining experience, though some guests wished for larger portions or more international dishes. Lunch is typically provided during activities, often consisting of a hearty soup and salad. The restaurant's atmosphere is enhanced by its spacious layout and stunning views.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a prime hilltop location, offering unparalleled views and serving as an excellent vantage point for observing the Northern Lights. Its direct access to the ski slopes and the start of Europe's longest toboggan run makes it highly convenient for winter sports enthusiasts. The ski lift is also within easy reach. While the hotel's remote setting provides tranquility, it is a considerable distance from Saariselkä town, requiring a 45-minute walk downhill or a short, albeit expensive, taxi ride. A ski bus operates during the day, offering limited service to town. Parking is available on-site, though guests should be aware that the steep access road may require a four-wheel-drive vehicle in winter conditions, and cars can ice up overnight. The hotel also provides convenient airport transfers, typically a quick 20-30 minute journey from Ivalo airport.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives glowing reviews for their exceptional helpfulness, friendliness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go above and beyond, providing valuable advice and support for various needs. The check-in process is generally described as quick and smooth, with staff often accommodating early arrivals or late departures. Specific services that stand out include assistance with navigating emergency situations, arranging special requests like aurora viewing after an injury, and providing to-go meals. Staff are also praised for their gracious handling of room changes and their responsiveness to requests for towel or coffee refills. The team is noted for their professionalism and excellent English communication skills, ensuring that all guest inquiries are addressed promptly and effectively, contributing significantly to a positive and memorable stay.

Additional Information
The hotel offers a comprehensive range of activities that can be booked directly, with many guests opting for all-inclusive packages that cover lodging, board, and excursions. These activities are well-organized, and guests are provided with all necessary winter gear. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, welcoming dogs in the reception and bar areas. While daily room cleaning is available, guests have the option to decline it. A unique amenity is the provision of free toboggans for guest use, allowing easy access to the nearby toboggan run. Some guests noted the hotel's structure, comprising individual cabins and a main building, requires walking outdoors between them. While the hotel is generally well-maintained, some areas are still undergoing development.