Aurora Lakefront Cottage OTSOLA, 55 km from Rovaniemi

Everything, and the host was amazing.

Loved the location, it was nice and cozy and just what we were looking for. Merja and Jari were super nice and helpful which was lovely.

Nothing, everything was great!

THE BEST DECISION we made when planning our trip to Lapland was to stay with Merja & Yari in their gorgeous Saariniemi estate. We're constantly on the move and travel monthly BUT this place is truly unique, beautifully managed with respect to traditions and environment. Our adorable Otsola cottage, standing right on the shore of the frozen lake, with its nearby private sauna and outdoor fire place, was the source of great happiness and excitement to us. It had everything we could possibly need and made us feel at home from the moment we saw it. Merja & Yari are the kind of hosts that you want to meet on every day of your trip – they're caring and respectful, friendly and fun, so hard-working and talented that you feel inspired and honoured to have met them. They made us very happy. Look no further! The little world Merja & Yari have created deserves all your time, money and love! We're booking our return here next winter right now!

Everything was just perfect for the two of us! However some people might find it unusual to use the outdoor toilet (which was nevertheless very comfortable and heated!) or have no running water indoors (even though plenty of clean potable water is provided inside the cottage for washing and drinking). Let it not stop you from coming here to experience the authentic lifestyle of Lapland! This place is so much more REAL than any Rovaniemi resort.

It was the perfect window into traditional Finnish life. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, we were able to truly relax and appreciate the beautiful landscape that finland has to offer aswell as some interesting wildlife tracks and sign(the northern lights from our doorstep was easily the highlight !!). Merja and Jari went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable and were very knowledgeable about the area and its history. We would highly recommend booking to stay at Otsola.