Every winter, international visitors gather in Hossa and Kylmäluoma to experience the authentic Finnish winter. Upitrek organizes week-long ski and snowshoe treks as well as multi-activity winter weeks, where guests can join alone, with a friend, or as a group. Days are spent outdoors – with meals either prepared over an open fire or enjoyed in the lodges, taken care of by the Hossa–Kylmäluoma staff from breakfast to dinner.
“Our trips combine diverse activities with the peace of nature,” says Niina from Upitrek. “One day the guests go skiing or snowshoeing in the forest, the next they try fatbiking. Along the way, they learn new skills and share an adventure together as a group.”
The program also includes husky sled rides, ice fishing, igloo building and visits to reindeer farms. Evenings often end in a warm sauna – and for the bravest, a plunge into icy water. “A lunch cooked over an open fire, or simple tasks at a wilderness hut like carrying water and chopping firewood, stay in people’s minds just as strongly as the northern lights.”
Snowy trails through the forest offer a unique cycling experience.
Visitors from across Europe
Upitrek’s groups include many kinds of travelers: families, young people, outdoor enthusiasts, school groups, and even visually impaired groups. Most guests come from abroad – from the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, the Czech Republic, Belgium and France.
The age range is broad, but the majority are between 45 and 65 years old. Snowshoe treks often attract summer hikers, while ski treks appeal to more experienced skiers. “As a new option next winter, we are also organizing beginner ski treks, which have been in high demand,” Niina explains.
Sitting quietly on the ice and waiting for a catch – ice fishing is both calming and fascinating.
The strengths of Hossa and Kylmäluoma
Many visitors are looking for an alternative to Lapland’s busy resorts. “In Hossa and Kylmäluoma you can do the same winter activities, but the atmosphere is calmer and the environment more authentic. Forests, clear waters, pure snow and quiet trails always leave a lasting impression,” Niina describes.
After the sauna, a dip into icy water is often the highlight of the week.
The importance of cooperation
Upitrek’s activities rely on close cooperation with local partners. “Without the staff of Hossa and Kylmäluoma, we couldn’t organize our trips on this scale. They take care of accommodation and meals from breakfast to dinner, as well as equipment. The cooperation is smooth and flexible – that’s what makes the whole experience work.”
Treks often include visits to atmospheric wilderness huts in Hossa and Kylmäluoma.
Simple moments, unforgettable experiences
Many travelers say that the best memories come from simple moments: a lunch break by the fire, a night in a wilderness hut, carrying water or chopping firewood. The northern lights and ice swimming leave a deep impression time after time.
One visitor described their trip to Kylmäluoma like this:
“It may have been the best trip I’ve ever been on. Everything seemed to run like a well-oiled machine, and the guides looked after every participant. The atmosphere was warm and all the arrangements worked seamlessly.”
A hot drink indoors gives warmth and energy during a winter day.
Responsibility in practice
Upitrek encourages guests to use direct flights to Kuusamo whenever possible and has developed transfers so that groups can be combined efficiently. Direct bookers receive “10 sustainability tips” before their trip. Upitrek also participates in the international Travelife program for tour operators and has achieved Travelife Partner status, which requires meeting more than 100 sustainability criteria.
The most magical moments are often in the evening, when the Arctic sky glows green.
Warmly welcome
The Upitrek team welcomes all travelers to experience the winter of Hossa and Kylmäluoma. Many return again – either to the same trek or to try something new.
👉 You can easily book your own winter adventure directly on Upitrek’s website: www.upitrek.com
Trails and beautiful scenery invite both beginners and experienced skiers.Simple everyday tasks, like preparing firewood, are part of the adventure.
