Nestled beside the breathtaking Valtavaara National Park in eastern Finland, Ruka and Ruka Valley combine the thrill of Arctic adventure with a warm, festive atmosphere that children and adults alike will cherish long after they return home. With husky safaris, reindeer sleigh rides and a very special private meeting with Santa himself, this is among Finland's most magical winter destinations.
2 Night Trip
Adults from £1,200pp
3 Night Trip
Adults from £1,470pp
4 Night Trip
Adults from £2,090pp
6 Night Trip
Adults from £1,975pp
Ruka and Ruka Valley lie in the east of Finland, snuggled beside the picturesque Valtavaara National Park at the very heart of Santa's homeland. This versatile area blends a ski village centre with peaceful forest retreats, giving families the flexibility to choose between Ruka's restaurants and shops or the quiet seclusion of log cabins deep in the snow-laden woods.
With Kuusamo Airport just 25 minutes away, it’s one of the quickest transfers of any resort – meaning more precious time in the snow and less time travelling. It is an ideal choice for families seeking a full Arctic experience.
One of the shortest transfers – just 25 minutes from Kuusamo
A wide choice of accommodation, from cosy log cabins to central hotels
A resort centre with restaurants, shops and après-ski atmosphere
Set on the edge of Valtavaara National Park – stunning wilderness scenery
Ruka and Ruka Valley are brimming with festive wonder and exhilarating Arctic pursuits. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to rediscover the magic, every day brings something truly unforgettable.
Feel the rush of speeding through pristine Arctic forest on a fast-paced husky sled, guided by expert mushers. One of the most thrilling experiences this spectacular location has to offer.
Drift gently through snow-covered forest on a romantic reindeer-drawn sleigh. A timeless tradition, perfect for all ages and especially cherished by younger children.
The highlight of every Canterbury Travel holiday – a private, personal audience with Santa himself in an enchanting festive setting your family will never forget.
If you are on our New Year Arctic Adventure tour, you will enjoy a full snowmobile safari as you ride across the frozen tundra and through ancient wilderness. During our Christmas short breaks, children and adults will attend Speedy Sam's driving school for a short drive of the snowmobiles. Fun is guaranteed for the whole family.
Explore the National Park on snowshoes or simply enjoy tobogganing, snow games and building snowmen – endless festive fun for little ones.
On clear winter nights, Ruka's skies come alive with the Northern Lights. Wrap up warm, step outside and watch nature's greatest light show unfold above you.
Flight time: Approximately 3 hours from the UK
Transfer time: Approximately 25 minutes from Kuusamo Airport
Time zone: GMT +2
Language: Finnish
Currency: Euro
Arctic winter temperatures typically range from around -8 °C in November, to -15 °C in December, and -18 °C in January. Snow cover is reliable from November through to April. Proper thermal clothing is essential – please refer to our guide on wrapping up warm before you travel.
Canterbury Travel provides courtesy transport between selected accommodations and restaurants for meals, so there is no need to worry about distance even if you are staying in the forest cabins on the edge of the resort. The ski village centre, with its shops and bars, is easily walkable for those staying centrally.
Ruka village has a good selection of shops, bars and restaurants in its lively centre – one of the most well-served resort villages in Finland. The Scandic Rukahovi Hotel lies right at the heart of the village for those who want everything on their doorstep.
While facilities in Ruka Valley are more limited, there is a well-stocked supermarket for essentials.
The resort sits right on the edge of Valtavaara National Park, meaning wilderness is never more than a few steps away. Yet Ruka village itself offers a full range of amenities, giving your holiday a relaxed, unhurried feel.
The short transfer from Kuusamo Airport – just 25 minutes – is one of Ruka's most practical advantages, making it especially appealing for families travelling with young children. Add reliable snowfall, a full programme of Arctic activities and the magic of a private Santa experience, and it is easy to see why this remains one of the most popular destinations year after year.
All Canterbury Travel Ruka and Ruka Valley Christmas holidays include ATOL-protected return flights, transfers to and from Kuusamo Airport, full-board accommodation (with all meals), and all activities as listed in your chosen itinerary. There are no hidden extras.
Absolutely. This area is an excellent choice for families with young children. The short transfer, wide range of accommodation styles and gentle activities such as reindeer sleigh rides and snow play make it very family-friendly. The private Santa experience is especially magical for little ones.
Yes – Ruka village has a good selection of shops in its centre, making it one of the better-served resorts for day-to-day essentials. Accommodation further out in the forest is served by our courtesy transport.
From cosy log cabins nestled in the Valtavaara forest to centrally located hotels and spacious lodges for larger groups, Ruka and Ruka Valley offer a wonderful range of accommodation to suit every family and budget. Our courtesy transport ensures that even the most secluded properties are easy to reach for meals and activities.
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