Before traveling, I find it extremely important to read up on reviews of the specific location I will be visiting. Trip Advisor is typically the most useful site that I have found. In regards to Hotel Kakslauttanen, there have been numerous different beliefs and reviews. Some have loved their experience whereas others complained about the food, service and weather.
TRIP ADVISOR COMMENTS AND CONCERNS
- We visited Kakslauttanen in Feb 2010 and traveled with my partner and his Mother. I had read mixed reports about this place on Trip advisor particularly wrt price, food and service, but I must say our holiday went like clockwork. I regularly stay in 4 / 5 star hotels with work and was not disappointed with Kakslauttanen at all!!.
- We had arranged pick up / delivery to and from Ivalo airport by Kakslauttanen which I would recommend as I certainly did not see any TAXI's at this small airport.
- We then also spent 1 night in a glass igloo, which was extremely warm (even though it was -32'C outside) and worth doing for one night.
- We did 2 husky safaris, reindeer safari and snow mobile safari. I would recommend the 4 hour ones as they are an experience to remember. Husky safari is by far the best, followed by snow mobile. All arrangements made by the hotel for these excursions were excellent, but you do need to check the notice board in the reception area daily for times etc.
- Food was excellent every day of our 8 day stay. There is a set 3 course meal every night which is good home cooked food. We had no complaints and never felt the need to choose off the a la carte menu. We had superb soups, salmon, steak, Thai Pork, fish, reindeer and a variety of desserts from chocolate mousse to pancakes.
- The staff were extremely friendly and always went out of their way to help. They spoke pretty good English such that language was never a barrier. They certainly delivered service with a smile!!
- Best way to get around the area in on the bus (incl Ski Bus) - make sure you go to Huippu as you get a great view of the area, supermarket and gift shops at Saariselka.
- To top it all off we saw amazing Northern lights on 2 nights - to give you an idea of the level of service one of the waitresses ran 10 minutes across the site to our cabin at 9.30pm at night to tell us that the sky was full of Northern lights!!
