Glass View Rooms & Igloos for the Northern Lights

Introduction

Finnish Lapland offers many reasons to visit but top of the list for many people is to experience the Northern Lights.  This ‘bucket list’ dream is now so popular, that in order maximize viewing opportunities the Finns have created some ingenious and rather unique accommodations across Finland – in fact it might be easier to list the locations where glass rooms are NOT available! 

These sought after rooms are designed with warmth and comfort in mind and have come a long way since the earlier days of tented domes and snowy treks to the nearest toilet!  New and improved with ensuite facilities, some now even boast a private sauna, glass rooms now offer a memorable experience for all the right reasons, whether you choose a stand-alone stay or combine your stay ‘under glass’ with more traditional styled accommodation.  

Most of our recommended hotels now offer glass rooms in some form or another, here we talk about some of our favourites. 

We discovered Nivunki Village during our trip to Finland in March 2025 and were immediately captivated by their uniquely designed Northern Lights Kotas. A kota is a traditional Sámi shelter, conical in shape and often portable, they were once used not only for protection from the elements but also as a place for gatherings and spiritual practices.  At Nivunki, this heritage blends seamlessly with modern comfort. Each Kota is thoughtfully equipped with ensuite shower and toilet facilities, a minibar, kettle, Nespresso coffee machine, and plush bathrobes, there is even complimentary Wi-Fi! The highlight, however, is the king-size bed, perfectly positioned beneath wide, sloping glass windows that face north, offering breathtaking views of the aurora as it dances across the night sky. 

Further north, the family- owned Wilderness Hotel’s group offers a variety of glass rooms at their various resorts dotted around the Inari region. At Nangu you will find small and simple floating Aurora Huts, frozen into Lake Inari during winter.  Although there is an eco-toilet, this is the only offering that doesn’t have running water, so shower facilities are located nearby.  If that’s a deal breaker, you may choose the more palatial Aurora Log Cabins, complete with ensuite toilet and shower facilities, the laser-heated partial glass-roof opens up to the northern sky, directly above the bed.  Wilderness Hotels Muotka, Inari and Nellim also offer Aurora Cabins with ensuite shower facilities where you can stay for the duration of your holiday or simply upgrade on your final night. 

With spectacular 360° views, Star Arctic Resort is located in a unique spot on top of Kaunispää fell near Saariselkä village, and taking full advantage of the views are the brand-new Aurora Sauna Suites.  Although technically there is no glass ceiling, they do have huge panoramic windows and a prime position on the edge of the south facing fell for front row views to the northern night sky from both the bed and from the warmth of the private sauna. If a glass ceiling is a non-negotiable, then opt for the unique and innovative Aurora Glass Cabins instead.  Once again, the apexed glass ceiling is positioned directly above the queen bed, offering perfect vistas to the heavens. 

We can’t talk about Glass Igloos without mentioning Finland’s most famous offerings at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.  Located in the Saariselkä fell area of Northern Finland, the glass igloo’s first made an appearance in 1999 and they were the first of their kind in Lapland! Over the years Kakslauttanen has expanded and now offers separate East & West Villages, both boasting igloos; small for 2 persons or large for 4 persons.  Perfectly formed and built from special thermal glass, you can spend a cosy night under the stars even in the depths of winter as you await the northern lights.  Every Glass Igloo has recently been upgraded to include an ensuite bathroom and a private sauna, offering an even more luxurious and relaxing stay.  For the ultimate indulgence Kakslauttanen also boasts Kelo Glass Igloo’s that combine the warmth and comfort of a traditional log cabin with the unique luxury and sensational views of a glass igloo bedroom.

Heading further south, but still 100km north of the Arctic Circle in the small village of Luosto, 10 beautifully designed Arctic accommodations offer panoramic views through the glass walls and ceiling in the grounds of Hotel Aurora.  The air-conditioned Premium Glass Igloos feature a private bathroom with toilet and shower and boast quality hotel amenities.  Available year-round these stunning rooms provide a unique opportunity to experience amazing auroras in autumn and winter and sleep under the Midnight Sun in the month months.

Close to Lapland’s capital, Rovaniemi, and brand new for winter 2025, Vaattunki Wilderness Resort have introduced Aurora Cabin Igloos to complement their existing Panorama Huts.  Located in a wilderness setting close to the Arctic Circle and within visiting distance of Santa Claus Village, the Aurora Cabin Igloo’s offer a blend of comfort, luxury and breathtaking views from the main bed which is positioned under the partial glass ceiling.  With ensuite shower and toilet facilities they are also roomy enough to offer a sofa bed for up to 2 extra people so you can even treat the kids!  

For the more budget conscious traveller, Iisakki Glass Village is a great choice.  In a countryside setting on the shores of Lake Rukajarvi and just 15-minute from Ruka Village, Iisakki Village offers just 10 Glass Villas, each equipped with a double bed, en suite bathroom and a small kitchenette.  The floor to ceiling windows and glass roof boasts stunning views to the outside world for the ultimate in aurora observation at a more affordable price. 

Last, but by no means least, Hotel Iso Syote boasts the crème de la crème of glass rooms in their unique Eagle's View Suite, nestled on top of Lapland’s southernmost fell.  The ultimate in luxury with stunning views, on the first floor of this spacious suite you will find a comfortable living room with cosy fireplace along with a private sauna in the luxurious bathroom.  Upstairs in the ‘nest’, a sumptuous bed and Jacuzzi are perfectly positioned under a glass ceiling and surrounded by glass walls.  The perfect choice for honeymooners and special occasions. 

So, if a night under the stars, and hopefully the northern lights, is on your holiday wish list, please get in touch and we will endeavour to find the right ‘Glass Room’ for you.