Located 25 km north of the small town of Kuusamo, Ruka is Finland’s largest and most modern ski resort. They offer dog sledding, snowmobiling, and a large indoor pool. The ski season lasts from October to May. Therefore, Ruka ski resort is popular with tourists, independent travelers and sportsmen.
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About the recreation center
The slopes of the resort are located on four mountain slopes, where more than ten lifts operate. More than half of the slopes are illuminated until 19:00 at night. This makes it possible to ride in the evening, after sunset. Ruka Ski Resort is the official training ground for the Finnish snowboard team. International freestyle skiing teams practice here. Don’t forget the world-class ski stadium, home to the World Skiing and Cross Country Championships every year.
The peculiarity of the resort lies in the snow cover, which, with the help of special equipment, can remain on the slopes until June. The purpose of building Ruka as a ski resort was to create a place for summer training for Finnish local skiers. Trainings are held on the slopes every year in May and June.
Features of the recreation center:
- the possibility of training, developing skiing and snowboarding skills for amateurs and professionals;
- several types of trails and descents – for professionals, beginners;
- you can choose a place of residence – a hotel room, a guest house;
- many restaurants, cafes, hotels provide meals – breakfast or full board.
The disadvantage of the recreation center is its remoteness from the big cities of the country. You cannot come here for one day and then return to another settlement. However, the season lasting 200 days a year covers this minus of the recreation center in Finland.
Description of slopes and structure of the resort
A popular facility is the Freestyle Center, which is used for training teams and individual skiers. It is located in the center of the resort, in the western part. The pistes are 225 meters long with a height difference of 106 meters. The slope is 53% or 29°. There are two slopes that are well viewed from the terrace of the local restaurant.
You don’t have to be a good skier to enjoy a trip to the Ruka Ski Resort. The recreation center has the largest specialized ski area in Finland. And beginner skiers and snowboarders will be able to ride on gentle slopes with small areas of vegetation – trees, bushes.
There are several dozens of ski lifts and saddle lifts at the resort. Beginners can order the services of instructors. It is suitable for children and beginner skiers. There are several trails for skiing on the gently sloping snow floor.
Additional Information
Ruka is a 25-minute drive from Kuusamo Airport. It can be reached by car or bus. The resort hosts entertainment events – competitions, concerts, competitions between professional skiers and amateurs. Alternative entertainment – snowmobile trips, dog sledding. For relaxation after a busy day, you can visit the Finnish sauna.
Children aged six and under receive a free lift ticket and a free helmet. There is a children’s ski area on both sides of the mountains, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for learning to ski and toboggan. Ski lifts are easy to use rope lifts and tow structures. The indoor indergarten is available in ages two to seven. Here young tourists can have a good time.
There is a free outdoor snow area with a ski lift next to Rukakhovi Hotel and the main ski lift. Children can only visit if accompanied by their parents.