Explore our tips for the best experiences to enjoy together and keep smiles on everyone’s faces throughout the holiday.
Summer Fun for an Adventurous Family
Many families love both big and small adventures – and in Ruka–Kuusamo, there’s plenty of both!
The Whole Family to the Bike Park
The adventure begins as you hop on the Village Express chairlift and head up to the starting point of the Bike Park trails. Ruka offers suitable routes even for beginner families, and with the expert guidance of Ruka Bike School, it’s easy to fall in love with mountain biking.
You can also enjoy speed and thrills on Ruka’s alpine coaster and the Ruka Rally mountain carts.
When it comes to water‑based activities, must‑try experiences include family‑friendly white‑water rafting, the water park in Ruka village, and canoeing along Oulanka river in Oulanka National Park.
Little Bear’s Trail – Suitable for Children Too
If your children are already keen hikers and can comfortably walk several kilometres on their own, make sure to visit the Konttainen fell lookout (2 km) for breathtaking views and enjoy a picnic or sausage grilling at Valtavaara Pond.
The 12‑kilometre Little Bear’s Trail (Pieni Karhunkierros) makes a great day hike for families – just remember to take plenty of breaks and pack good snacks!
Accommodation with a Hot Tub
Ski‑Inn apartments in Ruka village and Ruka Valley are ideally located along key routes and next to play areas. For an extra surprise for the kids, book an apartment with a private hot tub or stay at Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki.
For those seeking a more nature‑centred summer cottage atmosphere, we recommend choosing a cabin from Ruka–Kuusamo’s wide range of accommodation options.
Quality Pizza on a Sunny Terrace
After an active day, a delicious burger at RUOK Burger in Ruka Village or a pizza on the sunny terrace of Pizzeria Ruka is just what you need.
Events for families
What Is the Land of National Parks, Anyway?
In Ruka-Kuusamo, iconic national landscapes, stunning national parks, and fun activities come together. Traditional nature‑based pastimes have been revived to meet the expectations of modern families: instead of traditional log driving, rafting is enjoyed comfortably on a rubber raft, and cycling takes place not on old courting trails but on the fast‑paced routes of Ruka Bike Park.
