Levi Ski Resort
Lappi
Levi Ski Resort, situated in the village of Sirkka within Finnish Lapland, is the largest ski resort in Finland and a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Located at a latitude of 67.8° north, approximately 170 km above the Arctic Circle, Levi offers a unique Arctic experience with reliable snow cover and opportunities to witness the Northern Lights. The fell peak reaches an elevation of 531 meters, with 43 ski slopes catering mostly to beginners and intermediates, alongside three expert black slopes. The resort features 27 ski lifts, including two gondolas-one of only four in Finland-chairlifts, T-bar lifts, and magic carpets for children. Levi is renowned for hosting early-season FIS Alpine Ski World Cup slalom races, with a distinctive tradition awarding the women's slalom winner a reindeer, though none have taken the prize home. Beyond alpine skiing, Levi offers extensive cross-country skiing with 230 km of illuminated tracks and snowmobiling trails spanning 886 km. Family-friendly areas such as Kids' Land and Leevilandia provide recreational activities and beginner slopes with dedicated lifts and play areas. The resort's long season spans from October to mid-May, supported by snowmaking facilities. In summer, Levi transforms into a tranquil base for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and golf amidst pristine nature. Nearby attractions include the Levi Ice Hotel & Ice Gallery and the Snow Village Lainio, featuring ice architecture and unique dining experiences. Levi's blend of modern ski infrastructure, Arctic wilderness, and cultural events makes it a remarkable year-round destination.
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Tip: For the best skiing conditions and to experience the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup events, visit Levi from October to mid-May. It is advisable to purchase ski passes and book accommodations in advance during peak winter months. Families can enjoy dedicated children's areas like Kids' Land and Leevilandia, which offer beginner slopes and recreational activities. Utilize the frequent ski bus service connecting the town center and ski areas for convenient access. Visitors interested in seeing the Northern Lights should plan to visit during clear winter nights. Summer visitors can explore hiking, mountain biking, and golfing opportunities while enjoying quieter surroundings.
Interesting facts
- •Levi hosts early-season FIS Alpine Ski World Cup slalom races, unique for awarding the women's winner a live reindeer as a prize.
- •Levi is one of only two locations in Finland with gondola lifts.
- •The resort has 43 ski slopes with 17 floodlit for night skiing.
- •Levi offers 230 km of cross-country ski tracks and 886 km of snowmobiling trails.
- •The skiing season often lasts from October to mid-May, one of the longest in Europe.
- •Levi's latitude north of the Arctic Circle provides excellent chances to see the Northern Lights during winter.
- •Family areas like Kids' Land and Leevilandia include magic carpet lifts and traditional Lappish shelters for warming and socializing.
History
Levi began attracting fell skiing enthusiasts in the mid-1930s, initially accessible by horse carriage from Kittilä.
Post-World War II, domestic tourism grew with small lodgings in the village of Sirkka.
In 1964, the municipality of Kittilä acquired land to develop the first ski slope and lift, marking the start of Levi's transformation into a ski resort.
The 1980s saw rapid expansion with new lifts, accommodations, and the opening of Kittilä Airport in 1982, improving accessibility.
Levi Hissit Oy was founded in 1976 to manage ski lifts and trails, and in 2000, Levi opened Finland's first gondola lift.
Since then, Levi has grown into Finland's largest ski resort and a regular host of international ski competitions, including the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup.
Place Guide
Gondola Lifts
Levi features two gondola lifts, providing scenic and efficient ascents to the fell's summit. These lifts are among only four gondolas in Finland and are integral to the resort's accessibility and appeal.
Kids' Land and Leevilandia
Dedicated family zones offering beginner-friendly slopes, magic carpet lifts, sledding hills, and recreational activities such as snow tubing and campfires. These areas include traditional Lappish shelters (kota/goahti) for warmth and socializing.
Levi Ice Hotel & Ice Gallery
Located 8 km from Levi center, this unique attraction features ice architecture, an ice gallery, and an ice restaurant, offering visitors a chance to experience art and hospitality in a frozen environment.
Contact
Phone: 020 7960200
