Oy Levi Ski Resort, commonly known as Levi, is the true winter sports capital of Finland. Located in Kittilä, Lapland, the resort offers an impressive 44 ski runs served by 28 lifts. Levi stands out from other Finnish resorts not only for its size, but also for the quality of its infrastructure. The trails are perfectly groomed and suitable for different levels of skiers, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced skiers.

It is interesting to note that Levi regularly hosts World Cup alpine skiing competitions, a testament to the high standard of the trails. Local legend has it that Mount Levi is home to Ukko, the Finnish god of sky and thunder, who guards skiers from danger. Locals believe that it is his presence that makes snow conditions in Levi so unique and stable.

One of Levi's hidden treasures is the possibility of night skiing. When darkness falls, some of the trails are illuminated, offering an unforgettable experience of skiing under a starry sky, and if you're lucky - also under the magical aurora borealis. For those looking for a break from traditional skiing, Levi also offers a snow park with obstacles for snowboarders and cross-country skiing trails with a total length of more than 230 kilometers.

Rukatunturi, also known as Ruka, is Finland's second flagship ski resort, located in Kuusamo, near the Russian border. Ruka boasts 35 slopes and 21 lifts, but what really sets the resort apart is its exceptionally long ski season - often lasting from October to May, making it one of the longest-running resorts in Europe.

Ruka's history is fascinating - the first skiing competitions were held here as early as the 1950s, when local residents began organizing races on the natural slopes of the mountain. Today Ruka is a modern resort, but still cherishes its rich history. At the local ski museum, you can see the original skis made of wood, used by the Finns hundreds of years ago.

Ruka's unique attraction is the 'First Snow Route' - a specially prepared section that opens as early as October, regardless of natural snow conditions. This is made possible thanks to the previous season's snow storage technology, an example of Finnish innovation in winter sports.

Comparing Levi and Ruka, it's worth noting that Levi offers more trails and lifts, which can be an advantage for those looking for variety. On the other hand, Ruka boasts a longer ski season and wilder, more natural scenery. Price-wise, both resorts are in the mid-range category, although Levi, due to its popularity, can be a bit more expensive during peak season. In terms of accessibility, Levi has an advantage thanks to its proximity to Kittilä airport, while Ruka has to be reached from Kuusamo airport.

Ylläs Ski Resort, located in the picturesque village of Ylläsjärvi in the municipality of Kolari, is the third of Finland's great ski resorts to impress with its natural beauty and authentic atmosphere. Ylläs boasts the longest slopes in Finland - the longest of which is as long as 3 kilometers. In total, the resort offers 63 runs served by 29 lifts, making it the largest in terms of the number of runs in all of Finland.

Ylläs has a fascinating history - the first traces of settlement in the region date back to the Stone Age, and the local Saami people used primitive skis for hunting thousands of years ago. According to local legend, the name Ylläs comes from the name of a giant who inhabited the area and whose silhouette resembles the shape of a mountain visible from afar.

One of the most unique aspects of Ylläs is its approach to environmental protection. The resort has pioneered eco-friendly solutions in the ski industry, using renewable energy to power the lifts and employing advanced water-saving techniques for snowmaking on the slopes. For cross-country skiers, Ylläs offers an impressive network of trails totaling more than 330 kilometers, making it a paradise for enthusiasts of the sport.

A little-known attraction of Ylläs is the 'Snow Village' - an igloo complex where you can stay overnight, experiencing a true Arctic adventure. The temperature inside the igloo remains constant at around -5°C, but special thermal sleeping bags provide warmth and comfort.

Saariselkä Ski & Sport Resort, located in the heart of Lapland, is a resort that offers a unique combination of winter sports and cultural experiences. With 15 slopes and five lifts, Saariselkä may seem smaller than its competitors, but what it loses in size it makes up for in authenticity and proximity to wild nature.

Saariselkä's history is closely linked to the gold rush that swept the region in the 1920s. The first skiers in the area were actually gold prospectors who used skis as a means of transportation in the deep snow. To this day you can visit the gold museum in nearby Tankavaara, where tools used by prospectors, including primitive skis, are on display.

A unique feature of Saariselkä is its location - it is the northernmost ski resort in the European Union, which guarantees excellent snow conditions from October to May. The resort is also famous for the possibility of observing the aurora borealis during night skiing - special trails are illuminated in such a way as not to interfere with the visibility of this amazing phenomenon.

Saariselkä's hidden treasure is 'Kaunispää Fell' - a peak that offers a panoramic view of the boundless Lapland landscape. On clear days, even the territory of Russia can be seen from here.

Comparing Ylläs and Saariselkä, one can see that Ylläs offers far more trails and lifts, making it a better choice for those looking for variety. On the other hand, Saariselkä provides a more intimate, authentic experience and better conditions for aurora watching. Price-wise, Ylläs is slightly more expensive, especially during peak season, but it also offers more amenities. Saariselkä, despite having fewer trails, attracts wilderness enthusiasts and those who appreciate peace and quiet away from the crowds.

Pyhä Ski Resort, located in Pelkosenniemi in Finnish Lapland, is a unique ski resort whose name in Finnish means 'holy'. And this is no coincidence - Pyhätunturi Mountain has for centuries been a place of worship for the indigenous Saami people, who believed it to be a gateway to the spirit world. This mystical atmosphere is still palpable today, making Pyhä a place not only for winter sports enthusiasts, but also for seekers of spiritual experiences.

The resort offers 14 slopes served by eight lifts. While these numbers may seem modest compared to giants such as Ylläs or Levi, it is the intimate nature of Pyhä that is its greatest asset. The slopes are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed ride and a deeper experience of connecting with nature.

The history of skiing in Pyhä dates back to the 1960s, when local entrepreneur Kaarlo Kurttio installed the first ski lift. According to local legend, Kurttio received a blessing from a Saami shaman who prophesied that Pyhätunturi Mountain would bring joy to people for many generations.

One of the most unique aspects of Pyhä is its location on the edge of Pyhä-Luosto National Park, which gives skiers the opportunity to explore unspoiled terrain off the marked trails. For freeride enthusiasts, Pyhä offers special zones where you can safely enjoy deep powder snow.

Pyhä's hidden treasure is the 'Mysterious Valley,' a trail that leads through a narrow canyon where, according to local beliefs, the whispers of ancestral spirits can be heard. Whether or not you believe the stories, driving through this scenic gorge is an unforgettable experience.

Comparing all five of the ski resorts in question, there are distinct differences that make each one unique:

Levi stands out as the largest and most developed resort, ideal for those seeking a full package of services and entertainment. With 44 trails and 28 lifts, it offers the greatest variety for skiers of all levels. Price-wise, it ranks in the medium to high category, especially during peak season.

Ruka is known for its exceptionally long ski season and more natural, wild surroundings. With 35 runs and 21 lifts, it is the second-largest resort. Price-wise, it is similar to Levi, although slightly cheaper lodging options can be found.

Ylläs boasts the largest number of trails (63) and the longest runs in Finland, making it a paradise for long, leisurely downhill enthusiasts. It is also a pioneer of eco-friendly solutions in the ski industry. Price-wise, it is comparable to Levi and Ruka.

Saariselkä, despite having fewer trails (15), offers the most authentic Sami experience and the best conditions for aurora watching. It is also the northernmost ski resort in the EU. Price-wise, it is slightly cheaper than larger resorts, making it an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget.

Pyhä, with 14 trails, is the smallest of the resorts discussed, but stands out for its mystical atmosphere and proximity to the National Park. It is ideal for those seeking tranquility and a deeper connection with nature. Price-wise, it is the most affordable, which, combined with smaller crowds, makes it a hidden gem of Finnish skiing.

All of these resorts have one thing in common - an authentic Finnish approach to winter sports, where skiing is not just an activity, but a way of life and part of a cultural heritage. Whether you're a beginner skier, an experienced snowboarder or simply a lover of winter landscapes, Finnish ski resorts offer experiences that will remain in your memory long after the last snow has melted.