Glass Igloo Lapland: An Honest Kakslauttanen Review

That picture you’ve seen of a cozy glass dome under a sky swirling with green light? Chances are, it was taken at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. They practically invented the glass igloo hotel concept, and for years, it has been the go-to dream destination for travelers chasing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of a warm bed. It’s an icon of Lapland, and we locals appreciate how it put our home on the bucket lists of so many people around the world.

But here in Lapland, things change. New places open, travel styles evolve, and what was once the only option is now one of many. We often get asked: “Is Kakslauttanen really the best place for a glass igloo experience?” The honest answer is… it depends. It’s a fantastic place, but it's not the perfect fit for everyone. So let’s break down what a stay here is really like—the good, the bad, and the brilliant—so you can decide if it's the right choice for your Lapland adventure.

What Exactly is Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort?

First, let's get our bearings. Kakslauttanen isn't in a town; it’s a sprawling, self-contained resort located about a 30-minute drive south of Saariselkä, deep in the wilderness and right next to the beautiful Urho Kekkonen National Park. This remoteness is a huge part of its appeal.

The resort is massive, split into two main sections: the East Village and the West Village. The West Village is the newer of the two, while the East Village is the original site. They are a few kilometers apart, connected by a resort bus (or a long, chilly walk). Each village has its own reception, restaurants, and activity centers, so it’s important to know which one you're booked into. This size means it can feel busy, especially during the peak winter season from December to February.

The Famous Glass Igloos: What Are Your Options?

This is why you’re here! Kakslauttanen offers a few different types of igloo accommodations, and the differences are critical.

1. The Classic Glass Igloo (2-person): This is the original, iconic dome you've seen in photos. It's small, cozy, and purely for sleeping and aurora-gazing. The key thing to know is that these small igloos do not have a shower or a toilet. You get a private toilet, but showers are in a separate shared building nearby. For a one-night novelty stay, it's fine. For a longer stay, trekking to the shower building in -20°C can lose its charm quickly.

2. The Kelo-Glass Igloo (up to 6 people): This is our recommended choice for most travelers. It’s a brilliant hybrid: a traditional Finnish kelo log cabin attached to a glass igloo bedroom. You get the best of both worlds—the rustic, warm comfort of a private cabin with its own fireplace, kitchenette, and sauna, plus the incredible views from the attached glass dome. It’s the perfect blend of cozy Lapland charm and modern aurora-hunting luxury.

3. Other Accommodations: Kakslauttanen also offers traditional log cabins, a traditional Lappish house, and even a Queen Suite for special occasions. These are great, but the glass igloos are the main draw.

How Much Does a Night in a Kakslauttanen Igloo Cost?

Let's be direct: staying at an iconic resort isn't cheap. Prices fluctuate wildly based on the season, day of the week, and how far in advance you book. Here's a realistic price range during the main aurora season (September - March):

• Classic Glass Igloo (2-person): Expect to pay between €500 – €850 per night.
• Kelo-Glass Igloo (4-person): These larger, more luxurious options typically range from €700 – €1,200+ per night.

These prices almost always include a buffet breakfast and a three-course dinner. While the initial cost is high, remember that food is included. Dining out in this remote part of Lapland is expensive anyway, so having your main meals covered is a significant value-add. Flights, airport transfers, and activities are extra.

The Northern Lights: Will You See Them from Your Igloo?

This is the million-euro question. Staying in a glass igloo gives you a front-row seat, but it does not guarantee a show. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that depends on solar activity and clear skies. We've had guests stay for a week in peak season and see nothing, and others who saw a spectacular display on a random Tuesday in September.

Kakslauttanen is located far north, well above the Arctic Circle, which is great for aurora-chasing. However, being a large resort, there is some internal light pollution from pathways and buildings. For the best experience, turn off every single light inside your igloo to let your eyes adjust. The resort also offers an "aurora alarm" service that will buzz in your room if a good display starts, so you don't have to stay awake all night.

The best time to visit for auroras? The season runs from late August to early April. We love September and October for the chance to see them reflected in unfrozen lakes. For the classic snowy wonderland, aim for late February and March, when the days are getting longer, but the nights are still dark and the snowpack is deep.

Beyond the Igloo: Activities and Dining

Kakslauttanen is a full-service resort with a huge menu of winter activities. You can book everything directly through them. Popular choices include:

• Husky Sledding: A thrilling and essential Lapland experience.
• Reindeer Safari: A gentle, quiet ride through the forest, perfect for learning about Sámi culture.
• Snowmobiling: For an adrenaline rush across frozen landscapes.
• Ice Fishing and Smoke Sauna: A classic Finnish combination.

Local Tip: Book these activities well in advance! During Christmas and New Year's, they sell out weeks, if not months, ahead. Be aware that resort-booked activities are often more expensive than booking with independent operators in nearby towns like Saariselkä or Ivalo, but you're paying for the convenience of on-site pickup.

Dining is centered around the two restaurants in the East and West Villages. They serve a mix of Lappish specialties and international fare. The food is generally good, but the menu can feel repetitive if you're staying for several nights.

Getting There: The Journey to Saariselkä

Kakslauttanen’s remote location is part of its magic. The nearest airport is Ivalo (IVL). Finnair and Norwegian fly here daily from Helsinki. From Ivalo Airport, it’s a 30-minute drive.

The easiest way to get to the resort is via the airport shuttle bus, which you should book in advance. The bus meets most arriving flights and will drop you right at the reception of your village (East or West). Renting a car gives you more flexibility to explore the region, but be sure you're comfortable driving in potentially icy and snowy conditions.

The Honest Truth: Pros and Cons of Kakslauttanen

So, let’s put it all together.

Pros:

• The Original: It's the iconic, world-famous glass igloo resort.
• All-in-One: You can book your stay, meals, and a vast array of activities all in one place.
• Location: Situated in beautiful, remote wilderness near a national park.
• Kelo-Glass Igloos: These are genuinely fantastic accommodations that offer comfort and magic.

Cons:

• Price: It's one of the most expensive options in Lapland.
• Size and Crowds: It's a very large resort, and it can feel busy and less personal than smaller hotels.
• Aging Facilities: Some of the older parts, particularly the classic igloos and shared facilities, can feel a bit dated.
• Lack of Showers in Classic Igloos: For the price, having to walk to a separate building for a shower is a significant drawback for many.

Smart Alternatives: Other Glass Igloo Hotels in Lapland

If Kakslauttanen doesn't sound quite right, don't worry! The glass igloo scene in Lapland has exploded, and you have some incredible alternatives.

• Levin Iglut - Golden Crown: Located on a fell-top near the bustling ski resort of Levi, these igloos feel more modern and luxurious. The views over the valley are spectacular, and every igloo has its own bathroom and shower. It’s a more boutique, high-end experience.

• Arctic TreeHouse Hotel: In Rovaniemi, right next to Santa Claus Village, these are not igloos but stunning 'nests' on stilts with one whole wall made of glass. They offer incredible design, comfort, and amazing forest views. It's a great choice if you also want to visit Santa.

• Wilderness Hotel Inari: Further north and situated by the vast Lake Inari, this hotel offers smaller 'Aurora Kabins' with glass roofs. It's in a prime location for aurora hunting and deeply connected to Sámi culture.

Practical FAQ

Is there a shower in the classic Kakslauttanen glass igloo? No. The small, two-person glass igloos have a private toilet but no shower. You must use the shared shower facilities in a separate service building.

What's the best month to visit Kakslauttanen for the Northern Lights? For the highest probability, visit between September and March. For deep snow, choose December-March. For fewer crowds and autumn colors, September-October is wonderful.

Is Kakslauttanen worth the high price? It depends. If you want the 'original' experience and the convenience of an all-in-one resort, and you book a Kelo-Glass Igloo, it can be a magical trip. If you prioritize modern luxury or a more intimate setting, one of the alternatives might offer better value for your money.

Can you see the aurora from the igloo with the lights on inside? No. To see the Northern Lights properly, you need complete darkness inside and out. Turn off all the lights in your igloo and let your eyes adjust for at least 15 minutes.

Do I need to book activities far in advance? Yes, absolutely. Especially for popular activities like husky sledding and during peak season (December-January), we recommend booking at the same time you book your accommodation.

Buddy's Take

We have a soft spot for Kakslauttanen. It showed the world the magic of sleeping under the Arctic sky. Staying in a Kelo-Glass Igloo, with your own sauna and fireplace, is a truly special Lapland experience. It's a well-oiled machine that delivers a comprehensive, albeit expensive, Arctic holiday. However, it's no longer the only game in town. Today, Lapland offers a rich variety of glass-roofed accommodations, from luxurious fell-top igloos to designer treehouses. Our advice is to look at what matters most to you—is it the iconic name, modern luxury, intimacy, or proximity to other attractions? Whatever you choose, spending a night under the stars and (hopefully) the Northern Lights is a memory you will never, ever forget.