Yllas Saaga Apartments

Lapland-Finland , Santa Breaks in Yllas

  • Family Holidays
  • Close to Lifts
  • Spa & Wellness
4.5/5
Inghams rating

We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official rating.

  • Iso-Ylläksentie 42, 95980 Kolari, Finland

Facilities

  • Gym/Fitness Centres
  • Indoor Pool
  • Spa Facilities
  • Hot Tub
  • Sauna/Steam Room
  • Bar
  • Family Rooms
  • Drying Closet
  • Free Wi-Fi

Santa Breaks in Ylläs at a glance

  • Finnish
  • Euro (EUR)
  • London Gatwick (LGW), Bristol (BRS), Manchester Int. (MAN)

Included in your Santa Breaks holiday to Ylläs

  • A special half-day visit to Santa's Elves Hideaway, an exclusive excursion, where you'll have a private meeting with Santa
  • Arctic thermal clothing and snow boots for all adults and children from 3 years to keep you cosy and warm in the snow
  • A Festive Feast to celebrate your time in Lapland, full of festivities, including fun and games
  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Experts
  • Access to Inghams Digital Resort Guide with useful information to enhance your holiday
  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation

About Yllas Saaga Apartments

Celebrate Christmas in true Lapland style with a stay at the Ylläs Saaga Apartments, offering a superb slopeside location and breathtaking views over the snow covered fells. Perfect for a festive Santa Break, you’ll be ideally placed to meet Santa in his magical Lapland home, with snowy adventures right on your doorstep. 

For those dreaming of a white Christmas filled with snowy activities, the Saaga Apartments offer ski-in, ski-out convenience. The gentle, floodlit slopes make skiing and snowboarding a magical experience even when daylight is limited. With the ski school and hire shop just steps away, it’s easy for families to combine festive fun with winter sports during their Santa Break.

The modern and spacious apartments are furnished in a cosy Nordic style, perfect for warming up after a day of meeting Santa or exploring the pristine snow. Each apartment includes a TV, fully equipped kitchen, drying cabinet, and private sauna — ideal for relaxing after your Christmas adventures. The apartments are set across different buildings, with one connected directly to the Ylläs Saaga Hotel and another just 300 metres away.

Add extra magic to your stay by pre-booking the optional 'Spa Package' and enjoy access to the Ylläs Saaga Hotel’s excellent spa facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and hot tub. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day filled with festive activities and Santa visits.

All facilities are situated in the Ylläs Saaga Hotel

Spa & wellness facilities

  • Spa with large indoor pool, children's pool & play area, saunas, hot tubs and steam room.  Add on the Spa Package, which includes 7 days entry to the Saaga Spa (pre-bookable or payable locally) 
  • Spa treatments and massages are available to book locally for a small fee
  • Fitness room (reservation required)

Additional facilities

  • Two restaurants: Biegga half-board buffet restaurant and à la carte restaurant Tsohka (pay locally)
  • Bistro Bar 
  • Lounge
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Fireplace bar
  • Lifts
  • Located next to the ski lifts, ski school and ski hire shop on the Ylläsjärvi side of the fell

Located on the Ylläsjärvi side of the fell, the apartments are a short bus ride from Äkäslompolo centre, with the ski lifts, ski school meeting place, and ski hire shop conveniently next door.

  • Virtually ski in/ ski out 
  • Gondola runs next to the hotel
  • Ski school and ski hire shop next door
  • Ylläsjärvi side of the fell
  • Apartments may be up to 300 metres from the hotel

The Saaga Apartments are self-catered apartments. You also have the option to upgrade to bed & breakfast or half board for an additional supplement.

Conveniently located within walking distance of a local mini-market, you can stock up on the essentials. Each apartment includes a small kitchenette, allowing you to prepare meals in comfort or explore the nearby restaurants.

Take the fuss out of meal times, and upgrade to either bed & breakfast or a half board. Meals are taken in the Biegga restaurant at the Ylläs Saaga Hotel (up to a 300 metre walk).

  • Each morning enjoy a varied breakfast buffet with a range of hot and cold options, served from 7am - 10am.
  • If you have upgraded to half board, you can enjoy a delicious three course meal with a choice of main, available from 6pm - 7.30pm. 

You receive a 30% discount for the Tsohka à la carte restaurant. Please inform the reception by 6pm the day before. Please note that the à la carte restaurant is not guaranteed to be open all season.

A Festive Feast, a Christmas celebration meal with games and music, is included on the final night of your holiday. Please note that the Festive Feast will replace your last half-board dinner. 

No of restaurants: 2

This property caters for the following special dietary requirements:

  • Vegetarians
  • Vegans
  • Gluten Free
  • Dairy Free

Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking. Catering for dietary allergies will need to be checked before booking. Allergies and intolerances not listed above cannot be catered for. All allergies and intolerances, even if listed above, are subject to confirmation by the accommodation. If one member of your party has multiple dietary requirements, these are subject to confirmation by the accommodation.

Board basis available: Half Board, Bed and Breakfast, Self Catering

One bedroom apartments are around 43m², sleeping one to four people. The apartments have one twin bedroom and a double sofa bed, suitable for one adult or two children, in the open plan living room and kitchen.

Two bedroom apartment are around 62m², sleeping two to six people. The apartments have two twin bedrooms and a double sofa bed, suitable for one adult or two children, in the open plan living room and kitchen.

There is a mid-week clean with towel and linen change. End of stay cleaning is included.

Annexes

Some apartments are connected to the Hotel Saaga, while others are a short walk (approx. 300 meters) from the main reception. 

Apartment facilities

  • Balcony or terrace
  • Sauna
  • Drying closet
  • TV 
  • Radio
  • Fully equipped kitchen with oven, microwave, dishwasher, coffee-maker, grill and toaster
  • Shower and WC
  • One linen and towel set included, per person per week
  • Final clean included 
  • Free Wi-Fi access in the hotel reception
  • Apartments which are not connected to the main building have Wi-Fi. Apartments connected to the hotel access have internet access via a cable suitable for laptops (free Wi-Fi in the lobby).

The Saaga Apartments will always try to situate our guests in the block connected to the hotel, however, guests may also be located in nearby apartment blocks, which are not directly connected to the hotel and are up to a 300 metre walk away.

General information

  • Check in: 4pm
  • Check out: 11am

Additional information

  • No. of rooms: 120
  • No. of buildings: 1
  • No. of floors: 4
  • Lift accessible: Yes
  • Lift serves all floors: No
  • Access ramp: Yes

Travel to Santa Breaks in Ylläs

Depart on: Wednesdays & Sundays

Fly into: Kittilä

Transfer time: approx. 40 minutes - 1 hour by coach

Check availability

Travel by Air

Direct exclusive charter flights to Kittilä airport departing on Sundays (for 3 or 7 nights) and Wednesdays (for 4 or 7 nights) from:

  • Gatwick 
  • Bristol
  • Manchester 

Flight supplements may apply.

Airport Transfer Time - approx. 55 minutes - 1 hour 15 minutes by coach

Please note that there may be a few minutes' walk to your accommodation due to access/regulations on where coaches can stop.

Inghams Rating: 4.5/5

We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official rating.

Discover Santa Breaks in Ylläs

Ylläs is an idyllic unspoiled area of Lapland above the Arctic Circle. It encompasses three villages, Äkäslompolo, Ylläsrinne and Ylläsjärvi, each with marvellous scenery and high-quality cosy log cabins dotted around the woods. This resort really allows you to appreciate the true beauty of nature that Lapland has to offer - the landscape is dominated by vast forests, crystal-clear lakes (which are ideal for spotting the magical Northern Lights) , and rolling fells (their equivalent to mountains) making this resort a haven for nature lovers. The region also has a rich indigenous Samí heritage, and you'll have the chance to learn about Samí culture, traditions, and history during your stay. 

Our Ylläs Santa Break trips allow you to enjoy an unforgettable short break in December to get the whole family well and truly into the festive spirit in the run up to Christmas!

More about Santa Breaks in Ylläs

Things to do in Yllas

Snowmobiles are one of the most exciting ways to explore Finland in winter, and you’ll have the chance to glide through vast, snow-covered forests and glistening fells on this magical snowmobile safari. Before setting off, you’ll receive full instruction on how to drive your snowmobile, ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the pristine Arctic landscape.

Children will travel safely in a sleigh pulled behind the guide, while adults can choose to share a snowmobile or drive solo. Along the way, you’ll stop at a traditional Finnish kota — a cosy wooden hut — to warm up with hot berry juice, surrounded by the sparkle of the snowy forest. Then it’s back on your snowmobiles to continue the festive journey through Lapland’s enchanting winter wonderland.

Duration: 2-2.5 hours (from Äkäslompolo)

  • All drivers must be 18 years+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
  • Children must be aged 11 years or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile; they must be able to touch the footrest when sitting on the snowmobile. Children under this height or aged 4-10 years will be towed in a sled or pod behind the guide. Infants (aged 0-3 years) can't take part in this excursion.
  • Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single-driving snowmobile if a shared snowmobile is not available.
Snowmobiles

Set off on a truly special festive adventure as you hunt for the magical Northern Lights on a thrilling snowmobile safari beneath the starry Arctic sky. On dark, clear nights, you may be lucky enough to witness this breathtaking natural spectacle dancing across the heavens — a true Christmas gift from nature!

Your guide will lead you through the snowy forests and sparkling fells of Ylläs to the best viewing spots. Along the way, you’ll stop to warm up beside an open fire with a hot drink, while your guide shares ancient tales and legends of the Northern Lights, adding a touch of Christmas magic to this unforgettable Arctic experience.

Duration: 2-2.5 hours (from Äkäslompolo)

  • All drivers must be 18 years+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
  • Children must be aged 11 years or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile; they must be able to touch the footrest when sitting on the snowmobile.
  • It is not possible for children under 11 years to take part in this excursion. 
  • Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single driving snowmobile if a sharing snowmobile is not available.
Snowmobiles

Visit a traditional reindeer farm, where you’ll meet these gentle creatures and discover their special place in Lapland’s festive traditions.

Snuggle up under warm blankets as you glide through the snowy forest in a reindeer-pulled sleigh, surrounded by sparkling trees and the peaceful Arctic landscape. Along the way, learn about the Sámi people and how they have lived in harmony with the native reindeer for generations. This truly special and authentic Lapland experience is perfect for creating unforgettable Christmas memories.

Duration: 1.5 hours at farm

Reindeer Rides

Feel the thrill of the Arctic on an unforgettable husky safari through the snowy landscapes of Finnish Lapland. Hold on as a lively team of huskies whisks you across frozen trails, surrounded by silent forests and sparkling white scenery – the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

Duration: 1.5 hours at farm

  • Children younger than 4 are only allowed on 2km husky safari.  
Husky Safaris

Step into a winter wonderland at the mystical Lainio Snow Village, located 200km above the Arctic Circle. Rebuilt each winter from over 400,000 kilos of ice and 45,000 cubic metres of snow, this impressive hotel features beautifully sculpted rooms, courtyards, an ice bar, restaurant, and even an Ice Chapel. Intricate carvings and designs inspired by Nordic mythology make each year's creation unique, offering a new experience every time you visit.

Duration: 1.5 hours at Snow Village (includes guided tour)

  • Available from mid December onwards. Visits that are booked before the public opening date, may not be have a completed Village to see. You will be able to have a more 'behind the scenes' visit and maybe see the artists working. The completion of the Snow Village is weather dependent.
Ice Activities

An opportunity for guests who have never skied before to try the wonderful world of skiing. Conditions are ideal for learning to ski with empty slopes and friendly English-speaking instructors.

Includes

  • Ski tuition for 1½ hours
  • Skis & boots hire all day
  • Free use of beginner lifts all day

More information

  • Ski Taster Package is for guests 6 years or older
  • Please note that adults and children will be split into separate groups for their tuition
  • If you have previously skied or had a lesson, you must book the ski saver package
Ski

Head out on a guided snowshoe adventure under the starry night sky in search of the magical Northern Lights. You’ll be guided through the pristine Arctic wilderness, under the snow-covered trees to the best spots in Yllas to witness this natural phenomenon.  Once you reach the halfway point on the trail you’ll stop for a warming drink in front of the campfire, where you will be told stories of Lapland and beliefs of the Sámi people as well as the scientific explanation of this magical light phenomenon.

Duration: 2 hours

  • Children must be aged 13+ to participate in this activity
Ice Activities

Snowshoeing in Ylläs offers a beautiful way to explore the breathtaking scenery in Finnish Lapland.  Venture out into the pristine arctic landscape on a guided snowshoe safari through the snow-covered forests. Halfway, you’ll stop for a warming berry juice in front of the fire, and as you explore the trails, your guide will tell stories about Lappish culture and the natural landscape that surrounds you. You may even encounter wildlife such as reindeer, arctic hares, and even the occasional fox or owl.  

Duration: 2 hours

  • Children must be aged 7+ to participate in this activity
Ice Activities

Enjoy a 2km husky safari through snowy Lapland trails, guided by an enthusiastic team of huskies. On this unique lapland experience, you'll drive your own team of dogs. After your magical ride, gather in a traditional Finnish kota where your guide will share fascinating stories about the huskies and their Arctic lifestyle. You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and learn more about these incredible dogs. Warm up with a cup of sweet berry juice and tasty biscuits, making this a perfect festive experience for the whole family.

Husky Rides

Santa Breaks activity packages

Perfect for a 7-night Santa Break in Lapland, this package has everything you need for an unforgettable Arctic skiing or snowboarding experience. It includes a lift pass for effortless access to the slopes, plus skis or snowboard and boots—making it easy to hit the runs and enjoy the snowy wilderness. When you’re not on the hunt for Santa, embrace the thrill of gliding through Lapland’s winter wonderland on your skis or board.

Includes

  • 6 day - Lift Pass
  • 6 day - Skis/Snowboard & Boots
Skiing in Lapland

Make your Santa Break truly magical by adding the big three Christmas safaris! Glide through sparkling snow-covered landscapes on a Husky Safari led by a team of eager huskies. Experience a traditional, peaceful Reindeer Safari sleigh ride, surrounded by twinkling winter forests. And feel the festive thrill of a Snowmobile Safari, racing across the crisp, frozen Arctic terrain. These unforgettable adventures are perfect for creating cherished Christmas memories on your Santa Break.

Includes 3 activities

  • 9km Husky Safari
  • 1.5km Reindeer Safari
  • 25km Snowmobile Safari

Available on 7-night Santa Breaks.

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