Where to Ski And Snowboard - Finland back for Crystal

Finland back for Crystal

13th March 2011, by Chris Gill

Ruka, Finland

Family-friendly Finland is regaining interest among British tour operators, with the announcement that Crystal Ski has introduced Ruka and Iso-Syöte to their 2011/12 programme.

Both resorts are in Finnish Lapland, a region popular with families for its all-round winter holiday experience. Think log cabins, reindeer, santa and sleigh rides and you pretty much have a picture of what it’s like; along with cross-country and uncrowded downhill skiing. Lift pass prices are also lower than in the Alps. Crystal also lists various activities that guests can try, from ice-fishing to husky or reindeer safaris; outdoor skills or relaxing in a Finnish sauna.

Crystal’s season starts on 13 December 2011, but finishes early – the last departure from Gatwick to Kuusamo is 19 February 2012. So, this is very much a festive or early season choice if you want to go there.

Ruka is north of Kuusamo and close to the Russian border. It is considered the main ski resort in the area. Small, at only 20km of pistes; but with plenty of kids’ activities and other entertainment. Prices are from £445 per person for 7 nights (based on six sharing a 2 bedroom apartment) in the four-star Ruka Suites including flights from Gatwick and transfers, self catering, departing on either the 8th, the 15th or the 22nd January 2012.

Iso-Syöte is south of Kuusamo. It is a small ski resort with 21km runs suiting beginners and intermediates best. The hotel and cabins sit at the top of the fell. Prices are from £465 per person for 7 nights (based on six sharing a 2 bedroom cabin) in the Iso-Syöte Cabins including flights from Gatwick and transfer, self catering, departing on the 8th, the 15th or the 22nd January 2012.

Last but not least, Lapland has one final surprise up its sleeve. The farther north you go, the more likely you are to catch the Northern Lights. These twinkling red and green ribbons regularly drape the sky on clear nights.

The Crystal Ski 2011/12 first edition brochure is out now.