Lapland, Finland
Lake Jerisjärvi uncovered: where to stay, eat and play in Finnish Lapland’s best-kept secret
Bespoke partnership with Lapland Dream Villas
Experience Lake Jerisjärvi to the max
Hidden away in the northern wilderness in Finland, Lake Jerisjärvi feels like Lapland’s best-kept secret – a place where nature unfolds in its purest form. Here, adventure and stillness coexist. In winter, the frozen lake invites you to snowmobile across its surface, snowshoe through silent forests or gaze at the Northern Lights. When summer arrives, the landscape comes alive with opportunities to hike rugged trails, paddle across the tranquil waters or fish in the crystal-clear lake. We feel that Lapland Dream Villa’s trio of lakeside houses, all on the same road and tucked along the shoreline, offer the perfect base for exploring this region (and if you’re still unsure, check out their impressive Tripadvisor reviews). Here’s our guide to experiencing everything this hidden gem has to offer.
Top photography courtesy of Discover Muonio
Overview: Lake Jerisjärvi’s best stays
Where is Lake Jerisjärvi and what makes the area unique?
Tucked deep in Finnish Lapland, Lake Jerisjärvi sits quietly on the edge of the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, a place that’s been left largely untouched by time. It’s a lake steeped in history: locals have fished here for centuries and the nearby Jerisjärvi village is one of Lapland’s oldest, with roots going back to the Sámi people who lived off the land long before tourists arrived.
The best Northern Lights chasing
One of the fascinating aspects of this area is that the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park itself dates back to 1938, making it one of Finland’s oldest national parks, yet it remains wonderfully unspoiled. The park is known for its exceptionally clean air, with scientific studies showing that the air quality here is among the best in the world. If there’s anywhere left where you can breathe easy (literally), this is it – though the same can’t be said for your snowshoeing efforts through waist-deep powder. Lake Jerisjärvi also happens to sit under one of the best Northern Lights zones on the planet. Here, the Aurora Borealis lights up the winter sky roughly 200 nights a year.
Remote but accessible
Lake Jerisjärvi may not be on everyone’s radar, but that’s part of its charm. It’s the kind of place that makes you wonder why you waited so long to visit, and whether you can get your hands on a snowmobile for another lap around the lake. How to access this secret winter wonderland, you wonder? Luckily, reaching Lake Jerisjärvi is easier than you might think. The nearest airport is Kittilä, about an hour’s drive away and with 14 flight routes from cities like Manchester, Milan, Paris, London, Munich, Düsseldorf, Zurich, Tallinn, Riga, Vienna, Frankfurt and Hamburg, getting there has never been more convenient.
From Kittilä, you can hire a car (fitted with winter tyres, of course – this is Lapland, after all) or arrange a transfer to take you deep into the heart of the wilderness. Despite its remote feel, the roads are well-maintained, offering sweeping views of endless forests and snow-covered fells. Once you arrive, it feels like you’ve crossed into another world – one where the only traffic jam you might encounter is a herd of reindeer casually crossing the road.
Stay
Villa Borealis
Villa Borealis is part of the Lapland Dream Villas collection and feels like your own slice of lakeside paradise. With its own private beach, this 135 square metre (1,453 square feet) the villa’s decor emphasises neutral tones, featuring Finnish-designed furniture, pillows, and blankets. Design buffs will love the inclusion of pieces by renowned designer Alvar Aalto. Inside, the cosy living room, anchored by a traditional Finnish soapstone fireplace, invites you to relax after a day in the wild. The villa comfortably sleeps six guests across three snug bedrooms, each equipped with plush bed linens, towels and bathrobes. The fully stocked kitchen, complete with a Nespresso machine, raclette grill and fondue set, lets you cook up meals with ease. After dinner, unwind in the spacious sauna with a Jacuzzi or curl up with a movie on the flat-screen TV. Whether it’s gliding along the private ski trail in winter or paddling in the summer sun with the villa’s canoe, Villa Borealis offers a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation.
Villa Borealis
Jerisrannantie 20
Rauhala
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Lapland Dream Villas
Villa Tuulia
Just down the road, the 135 square metre (1,453 square feet) Villa Tuulia, part of the Lapland Dream Villas collection, offers a serene retreat that’s equal parts comfort and adventure. Set along the tranquil shores of Lake Jerisjärvi, this villa is the perfect base for exploring the pristine wilderness. Imagine returning from a day of cross-country skiing on your own private track, snowshoes crunching in the fresh powder, to relax in your private sauna with a view of the snow-covered trees. Inside, the living room is warmed by a Finnish soapstone fireplace, creating the perfect spot to relax with loved ones. With space for six guests, the villa’s bedrooms are kitted out with soft linens, towels and bathrobes. The kitchen is fully equiped, from a Nespresso machine to a raclette grill – everything you need for cosy dinners after a day out. In the summer, the provided bikes, canoe and barbecue make it easy to enjoy the endless Midnight sun.
Villa Tuulia
Jerisrannantie 18
Rauhala
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Lapland Dream Villas
Villa Ruoho
Villa Ruoho, also on the same street, is the jewel of the Lapland Dream Villa’s collection, offering more space (151 square metres/1,625 square feet), more amenities and the ultimate level of comfort for up to six guests. Located along a quiet stretch of Lake Jerisjärvi, this villa feels like a hidden gem, complete with its own private beach and lakeside sauna. Inside, you’ll find an airy living area centred around a soapstone fireplace, perfect for cosy evenings in after an active day. The three bedrooms are decked out with high-quality linens and bathrobes, while the spacious kitchen. Unique to Villa Ruoho is the extra space – two showers and two separate toilets – ideal for families or groups. In winter, enjoy the villa’s ski track, or spend summer days canoeing, cycling or simply lounging by the lake. Villa Ruoho delivers.
Villa Ruoho
Jerisrannantie 10
Rauhala
Finland
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Photography courtesy of Lapland Dream Villas
Eat & drink
Lake Jerisjärvi restaurants, bars and cafés
For a true taste of Lapland, the dining options around Lake Jerisjärvi offer an enticing mix of rustic charm and local flavours. At Takka Ravintola in Olos, the open kitchen and central fireplace create a cosy atmosphere, while reindeer and Arctic char dishes highlight the region’s culinary traditions. Over at Lapland Hotels Pallas, you’ll find a log cabin setting with signature dishes like creamy salmon soup and a relaxed bar for après-ski drinks. Jeris Lakeside Resort’s restaurant, with its views over the lake, blends history and hearty meals, while Ravintola Kammari serves up local ingredients in a welcoming, homely setting. Don’t miss Tunturiporo Säilykekauppa for reindeer delicacies and local treats to take home.
Photography courtesy of Ravintola Kammari
Wild foraging
Anyone even remotely familiar with Nordic cuisine will know that wild foraging is at the heart of its essence. Most Nordics have a basic knowledge of what’s edible in nature, but if you don’t, Arctic Frontier is your expert guide. As you explore the pristine forests around Lake Jerisjärvi, the air thick with the scent of pine and fresh earth, you’ll collect wild mushrooms, berries and herbs, guided by seasoned foragers. Their Snow, Fire & Feast (in winter) and Forage, Fire & Feast (in summer) experiences bring you closer to nature’s bounty. After foraging, gather around an open fire to cook and savour the day’s harvest, embracing the flavours of Lapland’s wilderness.
Gastronomic workshops
The Wild Food Cooking Workshop, arranged by Arctic Frontier, offers a deep dive into the flavours of Lapland, where seasonal ingredients are the stars of the show. You’ll work with locally foraged foods like wild mushrooms, lingonberries and nettles, crafting traditional Finnish dishes with a modern twist. Think elk meatballs with burnt butter sauce, wild mushroom dumplings, or smoked whitefish soup – each recipe rooted in Lapland’s culinary traditions. The workshop lasts around four to five hours and can be hosted in local kitchens or your own accommodation, making it ideal for groups of up to six. Dietary needs like vegan, gluten-free or dairy-free are easily accommodated with advance notice.
Shop
Local crafts and foods
If you are looking to shop for local crafts and foods around Muonio and Lake Jerisjärvi, there are a few interesting spots to explore. At Muonion Shoppi, you’ll find a range of locally made yarns and gifts, perfect for anyone seeking authentic Lappish souvenirs. Muonion LuoTu is a great place to pick up natural products, including local food items like wild berry jams and herbal products.
Photography courtesy of Discover Muonio
See & do
Northern Light chasing
Let’s be honest – the main reason we’re all trekking to Lapland is spelled A-U-R-O-R-A. Arctic Frontier’s Aurora Chase™ departs from the town of Levi, taking you deep into the snow-covered wilderness with local experts who know exactly where to find the most breathtaking views. As you leave the lights behind, the Arctic sky begins to transform – ribbons of green, purple, and pink stretch across the horizon. It’s just you, the crisp stillness of Lapland, and the magic of the Northern Lights. There’s no rush – just the quiet thrill of watching nature’s most mesmerising show unfold, far from civilisation, under one of the clearest skies in the world.
Photography courtesy of Discover Muonio
Snowmobile safari
Safaris often conjure images of sun-scorched plains, but in Lapland, it’s all about snow and speed. A snowmobile safari with Lapland Dream Villas offers an exhilarating way to explore the untouched winter landscapes of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. This private, three- to four-hour adventure takes you through frosted forests and across frozen lakes, all on the latest eco-friendly Ski-Doo Grand Touring snowmobiles. With thermal gear provided and an expert guide leading the way, you’ll experience Lapland’s remote beauty up close. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or just stunning scenery, this personalised tour promises an unforgettable ride through one of Europe’s most pristine wildernesses.
Photography courtesy of Discover Muonio
Husky safari
A husky safari is the quintessential Lapland experience, offering an exhilarating ride through the snow-dusted forests and frozen lakes of the region. You’ll be pulled by a team of eager sled dogs, their energy palpable as they race through the wilderness, guided by skilled mushers. Nearby farms like Doghill Huskys and Maglelin offer authentic and personalised tours. Feel the cold air rush past as you take in the stunning winter landscapes, making for an unforgettable adventure that connects you with the raw beauty of Lapland’s untouched nature.
Reindeer safari
Fun fact: It’s estimated that in Finnish Lapland, there are almost as many reindeer as people – around 200,000 reindeer to 180,000 residents. A reindeer safari offers a chance to dive into this rich cultural tradition. At Hunter of the North, you’ll meet local herders and experience the deep bond between them and their reindeer. Embark on a peaceful sleigh ride through snow-covered forests, where the only sound is the rhythmic clatter of hooves on snow. This authentic experience, deeply rooted in Sámi culture, offers a serene way to take in Lapland’s wintry beauty as your sleigh glides silently through the wilderness.
Downhill skiing
Lapland is a haven for downhill skiing enthusiasts, with ski resorts like Pallas with its well known off piste experiences, family-friendly Olos, Ylläs, which is one of Finland’s largest ski resorts and the happening resort of Levi, offering a variety of downhill ski terrains, from beginners to seasoned pros. These resorts, all located around Lake Jerisjärvi, feature well-groomed slopes and beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness. Whether you’re after gentle slopes or more challenging runs, you’ll find a range of options perfect for exploring the stunning snowy landscapes while skiing or snowboarding. Pallas is particularly known for its natural snow and laid-back atmosphere.
Photography courtesy of Discover Muonio
Cross-country skiing
For those who prefer to stay away from the slopes, cross-country skiing around Lake Jerisjärvi offers a peaceful yet exhilarating way to experience Lapland’s winter beauty. With over 200 kilometres of groomed trails in the Muonio region, many of which begin right at your doorstep, you’ll have access to one of Finland’s largest cross-country networks. The trails connect seamlessly to Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, where you can ski through ancient forests and over rolling mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, you can glide across the frozen lake, follow private paths through untouched wilderness, or challenge yourself on routes leading to Finland’s cleanest air and panoramic views of the Arctic.
Photography courtesy of Discover Muonio
Snowshoeing
Did you know snowshoes date back over 4,000 years? They were invented to help humans walk on snow without sinking into it, and today, they’re the perfect way to explore Lapland’s untouched wilderness. Snowshoeing around Lake Jerisjärvi and Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is all about moving at your own pace through soft, powdery snow. With each step, you’ll sink just enough to feel connected to the landscape, surrounded by silent forests and sweeping views of the mountains. The trails literally start right at your doorstep.
Photography courtesy of Discover Muonio
Fishing and ice fishing
Lapland’s lakes, including Lake Jerisjärvi, offer a true Arctic fishing experience, whether you’re after Arctic char, trout or perch. In summer, the fish bite easily, but winter adds a bit more challenge – there’s a thick layer of ice to drill through before you can cast your line. Ice fishing is a quiet, reflective way to connect with the wilderness. Local guides know the best spots and will show you the ropes, making it perfect for both first-timers and seasoned anglers. With the frozen landscape all around, it’s a peaceful, immersive way to experience Lapland’s wild beauty.
Photography courtesy of Discover Muonio
Bathing and winter bathing
Few experiences capture the essence of Finland like the combination of sauna and cold-water bathing. At Lake Jerisjärvi, whether in summer or winter, this ritual offers a powerful connection to nature. In winter, a private ice hole is cut into the frozen lake, ready for a bracing dip after your sauna session – a practice deeply rooted in Finnish culture, where it’s said the colder the water, the better the effect. For a deeper dive (pun intended), Arctic Sauna World offers themed saunas, allowing you to alternate between hot and cold therapy while surrounded by Lapland’s pristine wilderness. It’s a centuries-old tradition, promoting relaxation and revitalisation year-round.
Photography courtesy of Visit Finland
Spas
After a day exploring Lapland’s wilderness, the local spas around Lake Jerisjärvi offer the perfect retreat for relaxation. Arctic Sauna World at Hotel Jeris is a true highlight, featuring four saunas inspired by the elements – Earth, Water, Fire, and cheekily, Northern Lights. For a more extensive wellness escape, Levi Hotel Spa provides a range of pools, saunas and Arctic-inspired treatments, including massages using local herbs and oils to rejuvenate tired muscles.
Photography courtesy of Arctic Sauna World
Canoeing
Canoeing on Lake Jerisjärvi during the summer is a peaceful way to experience the beauty of Finnish Lapland. The lake’s crystal-clear waters provide a serene backdrop as you paddle along, surrounded by untouched wilderness and framed by the rolling mountains of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. Whether you’re looking for a calm, relaxing paddle or a more adventurous route, canoeing offers an intimate connection to the landscape, with wildlife often spotted along the shoreline.
Cycling
Cycling around Lake Jerisjärvi is a fantastic way to explore the area’s diverse terrain. While the region is best known for mountain and gravel biking, the scenic routes cater to all levels of riders. You can pedal through forests, across open landscapes or take on more challenging trails in the nearby mountains. Whether you’re a casual rider or an avid cyclist, the region’s network of paths and gravel roads makes for a rewarding outdoor adventure.
Photography courtesy of Sanni Vierelä and Discover Muonio
Hiking
For hiking enthusiasts, Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park delivers some of the best trails in Lapland, ranging from easy forest walks to tougher routes over the mountains. While lakeside paths around Lake Jerisjärvi are limited, the park’s raw beauty makes up for it. One standout hike is the trail to Keimiötunturi mountain, where you’re rewarded with sweeping views of vast wilderness from the summit. For those looking for something less demanding, shorter trails through ancient pine forests are perfect for soaking up Lapland’s tranquillity at a slower pace, allowing you to take in the unspoiled beauty that surrounds you at every turn.
Golfing
Who would have thought golf made its way this far north? Levi Golf Club, Finland’s northernmost 18-hole golf course, offers a truly unique experience for golfers. Set between the Levi mountain and the Ounasjoki River, this course allows you to play amidst the breathtaking beauty of Lapland’s wilderness. During the summer months, you can even tee off under the midnight sun, with 24 hours of daylight stretching your game into the late hours. In autumn, some have even played under the Northern Lights. Now, that’s a story for the grandchildren!
Photography courtesy of Levi Golf Club
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