Arctic Fox Igloos: Glass-Roofed Accommodation Beside Lake Ranuanjärvi

The Arctic Fox Igloos puts you front and center at a view of Finland’s sky, where an aurora is a possibility rather than a guaranteed nightly display. Located right on the shore of Lake Ranuanjärvi, you are met with a dome-like structure that features a double bed and small kitchenette.

There is also a timber box-like structure which houses a private sauna and bathroom.

One can also participate in several other activities being offered such as an arctic safari on snowmobiles, fatbike tours of the Ranua forest in summer, husky drawn sled or reindeer, meeting local polar bears or canoeing across the scenic lake.

The room frames a changing sky

A glass roof changes the relationship between a room and its surroundings: the sky becomes part of the view even while the guest is indoors. The lakeside setting gives the photographs another open surface, making the small interior feel connected to a much larger scene.

That architectural idea does not guarantee a particular night’s display. The activity list and accommodation details describe what was offered in 2019. The photographs are useful for understanding the design; current booking information and weather-dependent experiences require current information rather than the promise of a permanent nightly show.

The room’s frame is more dependable than the weather

The Arctic Fox Igloos photographs show an architectural relationship with sky and lake. The transparent roof makes the changing view part of the room, while clouds and auroral activity remain outside a booking promise. Historical amenities and excursion descriptions should be checked with the operator before they are used as current travel information.

Getting there and what each igloo offers

The igloos stand in Ranua, in Finnish Lapland, about an hour’s drive from Rovaniemi; transfers can be arranged. Lake Ranuanjärvi was chosen for its low light pollution, which makes it a good place to watch for the northern lights. Each igloo is secluded, and heated glass panels melt the snow that falls on the roof so that the view stays clear. Behind each one, a separate wooden building holds a living area, a bathroom and a sauna. Nearby Ranua Wildlife Park keeps Arctic animals in tundra habitats and is one of the few places where the Finnish Arctic fox can still be seen.

Sources: Wanderlust, 11 December 2018: Dream sleeps: Arctic Fox Igloos, Finnish Lapland