Isokenkäisten Klubi, a stay in the heart of Lapland’s wilderness

Wilderness cottages in nature

The buildings of Isokenkäisten Klubi are covered in weathered grey pine boards. They stand on the shores of Lake Heikinjärvi, a wild lake with crystal-clear waters. Their construction follows local architectural traditions and respects the fragile surrounding nature.

Hotel Kortteeri

Comfortable accommodation located right next to the main building of Isokenkäisten Klubi. This accommodation is suitable for both individual travellers and groups.

Kortteeri Wilderness Hotel

• 8 double rooms
• Private shower and toilet in each room
• Separate drying room for outdoor clothing and equipment in the building

Dining

Private Klubi Restaurant

A culinary journey into the authentic traditional cuisine of Kuusamo.

Ingredients such as wild berries, herbs, and mushrooms are foraged from the surrounding forests, fish comes from local lakes, game meat is sourced from local hunters, and other ingredients are provided by nearby farmers.

In addition to high-quality local produce, all dishes are handcrafted in the Klubi kitchen according to carefully refined traditional family recipes.

Hospitality is a long-standing family tradition: at Klubi, the table is always generously set.

Meals can also be served in the Helekuta Lappish hut (maximum 15 people, advance booking required).

Activities

SNOWSHOEING 2hrs – Thursday

Today is a perfect day for a prebooked option or to join the guided snowshoeing tour in the area. The excursion takes place in the beautiful surroundings of Isokenkäisten Klubi.

Because of its location, the area is surrounded by untouched nature to explore. During the summer there are a few neighbours, but in the wintertime, it is very unlikely to meet anybody – the forest is yours to explore. A stop is made at a laavu for a rest and to enjoy some hot juice by the open fire.

SNOWMOBILE SLEIGH RIDE BY NIGHT 1,5hrs – Tuesday

Tonight, the experience takes place in nature after dark by sleigh ride. If the sky is clear, there is a chance to witness magical Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

The sleigh ride starts from in front of Isokenkäisten Klubi and ends at the kota opposite the street with warm drinks and stories by the open fire.

HUSKY RIDE 1,5hrs – Friday

Today it’s time for a husky ride. The huskies are located just opposite the road. An introduction to the equipment and how to drive a sled is provided, followed by meeting the dogs eager to get going.

The 12 km trail takes you through the forest and lakes and is easy to drive. A guide leads the way in front of the group on a snow scooter, ensuring everything runs smoothly and providing assistance if needed.

ICE FISHING 1,5hrs – Friday

It is time to try ice fishing. This is winter fishing in its most traditional form. On Finnish ice-fishing waters – wide open mid-lake areas or bay heads – anglers can experience a level of peace and tranquillity that is difficult to find anywhere else in the world.
This is a favourite pastime for many locals, sitting in the midst of beautiful scenery with no sense of rush or worry. A guide introduces the equipment and teaches the techniques of ice fishing. After drilling a hole in the lake and setting up the fishing jigs “pilkki”, it is possible to catch perch, whitefish or pike.

KLUBI SPECIAL DINNER – Friday

The dinner is a true feast. The Klubi Special dinner is plentiful, extended and traditionally enjoyed with special vodka. Starters play the leading role in the menu, following long-standing traditions.
The dinner consists of 4 courses, starting with a glass of sparkling wine (vodka is optional and available at an extra cost).

ARCTIC LUNCH 1,5hrs – Saturday

Today, a return to the basics with an Arctic lunch in the kota. A kota is a Lappish tee-pee style hut, resembling the dwellings of the Sámi people when they lived as nomads.

At the centre of the kota is an open fireplace. A delicious 3-course lunch is served by the fire, along with insights into local cuisine.

SMOKE SAUNA 1,5hrs – Saturday

By now you have probably noticed someone making several quick stop behind the smoking cottage next door – that is the smoke sauna being heated. The smoke sauna of Isokenkäisten Klubi is the pride and joy of family Kämäräinen. It takes up to 6 hours to heat, so you’ll have the chance to see how it’s done. The smoke sauna has been awarded with seven stars and offers aromatic heat and wellbeing for its visitors. When it is time for sauna, you will get some turf to pamper your skin with and a dip into the frozen lake will for sure get your adrenalin to rush!

SLEIGH RIDE TO KUNTIVAARA In the steps of Sir David Attenborough 2,5hrs – Sunday

Experience the breath-taking sceneries of Kuntivaara. The ride up to the hill is like a winter wonderland and once you reach the top the beauty is absolutely stunning.

On a clear day you can see kilometre after kilometre of gorgeous landscapes on both sides of the border.