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How To

How to Visit Kotatieva – Everything You Need to Know

1. Getting to Kotatieva

Address

Ounasjoen itäpuolentie 828, 96900 Rovaniemi, Finland
GPS Coordinates: 66°35’49.7″N, 25°40’16.1″E
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Arrival by Car

Driving from Rovaniemi City Center:

  • Follow Road E75 north towards Ivalo / Kemijärvi / Airport (Route 82/81).
  • Take Exit 56 towards Kuusamo / Saarenkylä / Meltaus.
  • Turn left onto Kuusamontie (Route 81).
  • Turn right onto Ounasjoen itäpuolentie (Route 934) and drive 8.1 km.
  • Look for the Kotatieva sign, turn, and follow the road 2.5 km to the park entrance.

There are clear signs along the route — just follow Kotatieva signs.

Arrival by Shuttle (Daytime Service)

We provide a free shuttle service for guests with a valid A Day in Kotatieva or Kotatieva Experience ticket.

  • No advance booking is required for the shuttle.
  • Guests with pre-purchased park tickets have priority if the bus is full.

The shuttle runs between Rovaniemi city center, Santa Claus Village, and Kotatieva, three times a day.

Shuttle Timetable (Daytime)

To Kotatieva (via Santa Claus Village):

  • City Center → 10:00, SCV → 10:15
  • City Center → 11:00, SCV → 11:15
  • City Center → 12:00, SCV → 12:15

Return from Kotatieva:

  • Departs → 14:30
  • Departs → 15:30
  • Departs → 16:30

Transportation for Evening Programs

For evening experiences like Aurora Skating, sauna & hot tub, or private events, shuttle service is available for an additional fee (€100 per group, round trip). This must be booked at the same time as your evening program.

Organizing Your Own Transport

Rental cars or local taxis are both convenient options. Local taxis can be ordered via apps or by phone.

2. Parking

Free parking is available at Kotatieva for all visitors — right next to the entrance.

3. Opening Hours

Winter Leisure Park

Daily 10:00–17:00 (December to March)
For A Day in Kotatieva and Kotatieva Experience ticket holders.

Restaurant Kotatieva

  • 11:00–17:00 – lunch and café menu (for park visitors)
  • 17:00–22:30 (Sunday until 21:30) – à la carte dining open for everyone

Aurora Skating

Starts at 19:00 – available as an open event or private booking.

4. How to Prepare for a Day in the Winter Leisure Park

  • Dress warmly. Essential winter gear includes:
    • Thermal base layers
    • Wool socks
    • Warm winter jacket and pants
    • Good quality mittens or gloves
    • Warm beanie or hat
  • Bring a camera that can handle cold weather. You’ll want to capture these once-in-a-lifetime memories.
  • Bring a sense of adventure and an open mind. Get ready for fun, laughter, and the magic of Lapland’s winter!

5. Park Rules & Visitor Guidelines

  • A valid A Day in Kotatieva or Kotatieva Experience ticket is required for entry between 10:00–17:00.
  • All day activities are self-guided, but staff are always on-site to assist and guide.
  • Included activities: skating, sledding, carousel sled (hoijakka), snowshoeing, snow play.
  • All necessary equipment is included in your ticket.
  • Please follow safety instructions, signs, and staff guidance at all times.
  • Children must always be supervised.
  • Please, don’t bring food to park area, there is a cafe and a restaurant at your service

6. Equipment Information – What’s Included?

Skating

  • Ice skates are included in the day ticket and Aurora Skating ticket.
  • Helmet is provided free of charge – helmet use is strongly recommended.
  • Skating supports for beginners are available free of charge.
  • You’re welcome to use your own skates if you prefer.

Sledding

  • Sliding mats are included.
  • You don’t need to bring your own — we’ve got everything ready for you.

Snowshoeing

  • Snowshoes and sliding snowshoes are included.
  • Explore the snowy forest trails at your own pace.

7. Sauna & Hot Tub Guidelines

Walk-in Sauna & Hot Tub (Shared Use)

  • Available during park hours 10:00–17:00.
  • For day ticket holders only.
  • Pre-booking recommended but not mandatory.
  • Towel included.
  • Swimming gear is mandatory.

Private Sauna & Hot Tub

  • Available for private use either:
    • 13:00–15:00 (day) or
    • 19:30–21:30 (evening)
  • Must be booked at least 2 days in advance.
  • Max 6 persons per booking.
  • Towel included.
  • Swimming gear is mandatory.

8. Reindeer Ride Information

  • Available daily 11:00–15:00 (for park visitors).
  • Duration: 6–7 minutes ride + photos and safety briefing (total approx. 15 minutes).
  • Each sleigh holds max 2 adults + 1 child, or 1 adult + 2 children.
  • At least one adult is required per sleigh.
  • Infants (0–2 years) ride free on an adult’s lap.

9. Aurora Skating Information

  • Starts at 19:00 (open event or private booking).
  • Skate on natural forest trails lit with lanterns and the possibility of northern lights.
  • Includes:
    • Ice skates, helmets, and headlamps
    • Use of skating trail and natural ice rink
    • Skating supports available for beginners (free)
  • Can be combined with:
    • Private sauna & hot tub
    • Dinner at the restaurant
    • Cabin accommodation

10. Accessibility

  • Winter paths are snowy – good winter shoes are essential.
  • Most areas are accessible, but wheelchairs may require assistance in snow conditions.
  • Staff are happy to assist whenever needed.

11. Other Practical Information

  • The restaurant is open all day for warm drinks, pastries, snacks, lunch, and dinner.
  • Cozy fireplaces and fire pits are available for warming up.
  • Restrooms are located inside the restaurant and main buildings.
  • Lost & found items are kept at the reception.
  • Contact staff anytime for help — we’re happy to assist!

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need assistance:
info@kotatieva.fi
+358 40 162 0862

We look forward to welcoming you to Kotatieva – Your Winter Wonderland in Lapland!

💬