The White Circus

Transcription

The White Circus

ENGLISH
No. 1 | 2011–2012
The
White
Circus
– Pride of the
Fell Village
Golf
under the
midnight sun
Cyclists praise Levi
Official Partners of Levi
Winter magic
Lapland mystique
Holiday fun
for the whole family
Media Partners
1 | LeviDays
Experience
the fantastic Lapland!
Book your holiday to snowy winter landscapes or experience
nightless nights and golf under the midnight sun!
Onl
i ne L
e
vi
Levi.fi
Levi Holiday Packages
Prices starting from
Autumn “Ruska” Holiday
First Snow Package
Christmas Holiday Package
T
Golf Package
ra
€ 405 / person
3 nights € 350 / person
3 nights
Including Christmas Eve’s Buffet Dinner
Winter Holiday Break
Easter Holiday
vel S h o p
€ 314 / person
3 nights
These sample prices include flights Helsinki-Kittilä-Helsinki, accommodation (2 sharing a
room) in a hotel and breakfast. Book your holiday now and save money!
Ask also for other holiday packages! You can choose to stay in a hotel, a holiday apartment,
glass igloo or even in a snow hotel! You can book all activities from us as well.
Levi Travel Ltd.
Myllyjoentie 2
FI-99130 Levi
T. +358 16 639 3380
levitravel@levi.fi
www.levitravel.fi
Wonderworld of Ice
Where snow and ice becomes
magical works of art!
ICIUM, Wonderworld of Ice, is a magical ice sculpture park
that combines Chinese mystique and Lappish enchanted.
Award-winning ice artists create ICIUM from the ground
up, transforming ice and snow into magnificent
ice sculptures.
• Opendaily12-20from
ChristmasuntilApril
• Ticketprices:adults15€,
children10€,
familytickets40€
• Freetransportation
withSkiBus
Situated in Levi, ICIUM is the
perfect complement to a holiday
in Lapland.
3 | LeviDays
www.icium.fi
Contents No. 1 | 2011–2012
37
LEVI – MY FAVOURITE FELL
34 A holiday without snow
is a pretence
37 Presenting Levi fell pistes
38 Nightlife on the slopes
39 Thomas Müller
– citizen of the world
Get to know your way around fell Levi’s slopes
SPEED UP OR WIND DOWN
WITH THE FAMILY
12
Things to do in Levi
27 Shamans and local legends
29 The soul rests in Nulituinen
45 Gear up!
48
Magical Christmas-Time
52 Icy material calls for a steady hand
74 Where to get a two-wheeler
74
Activities for summer
LEVI DEVELOPS AND GROWS
LeviDays | 4
FOOD & FUN
10
Itching to get going
11 Doughnuts – a staple for skiers in Levi
30 Serving up Lapland’s wilds
A co-driver for the competition slope
32
Levi delicacies by local chefs
18 Top international alpine skiers
58 Oompah, oompah…
19 Finnish alpine stars
60 Sunrise Avenue’s bowling champion
21
A win-win situation
22 Getting prepared for the White Circus
23 It’s easy to get to Levi
9
Putting on a face
for evenings and festive sun
16
”These kinds of things don’t even
happen in fairy tales…”
17 48
42 An Elan Brother – a tried and true
snowmobiler
63 The perfect swing under
the midnight sun
7
Levin Tori – a pedestrian’s paradise
64 Levi golf course
9
Your mobile phone is
your best friend in Levi
66 Two wheels are all you need
44 Supervision breeds results
68 Catch me if you can
50 A wintry wonderland meets
to Kalevala
69 Beads of sweat in the
early morning hours
70 Try a village bike
71
A challenging adventure!
HO-HO-HO! You might see Santa Claus in Levi at
Christmas-Time
Levi is developing at a dizzying rate
You are currently holding the official LeviDays magazine for
the 2011–2012 season. It is full of important information about
Levi and the wide range of services available at the centre.
Keep reading and, like us, you’ll be convinced!
Levi’s transformation into the leading tourism centre in Lapland has evolved at a dizzying rate. Just 30 years ago, the wintry landscape of Levi was described as being cold, distant and
dark. Today, all of those aspects have become our strengths.
The cold signifies the assurance of snow and a long winter
season. The airport, located only 15 minutes from Levi, guarantees that visitors from Europe can reach our centre faster
than many ski resorts in the Alps. Furthermore, the darkness
in Lapland is exotic with its Santa Claus traditions and Northern Lights, and the demand for such experiences is increasing
every year.
Jussi Töyrylä
CEO
Levi Tourist Office
Today, Levi provides its customers with adventure amidst one
of Europe’s last true wilderness areas, as well as a diverse holiday centre with top notch services and a highly functional infrastructure. The area’s 23,500 beds offer alternatives to suit
any taste, and 40 restaurants ensure that you will never go
hungry, whether you are craving fast food or gourmet dishes.
There are more than 50 activity companies looking to offer you
plenty of exciting and entertaining services.
Even though winter has brought fame to Levi, the region truly comes alive in summer as well. Numerous activities, from
golf to fishing and from cycling to weekly programmes, will
keep you busy throughout your entire holiday. The Ounas River flowing past Levi also provides a great backdrop for different water-based activities. At the end of the summer, wander through the wilds of the forests and gather ripe berries and
mushrooms.
I would like to personally wish you welcome to Levi, your holiday destination 170 km north of the Arctic Circle. I am sure that
you will take home countless memories and unique experiences gained in the beautiful Finnish Lapland.
publication info
PUBLISHER Levin Matkailu Oy EDITOR IN CHIEF Jussi Töyrylä MANAGING EDITORS Maija Palosaari / Levin Matkailu,
Teemu Kytövuori / Avalon Oy BOARD OF EDITORS Jussi Töyrylä, Ari Aspia, Maria Astrén-Riipi, Juha Laine, Markku Mäkitalo,
Jouni Palosaari, Päivikki Palosaari, Anja Keskitalo, Ari Vuorentausta ja Jari Laakso LAYOUT Avalon Oy PHOTOS Levin Matkailu and entrepeneurs, interviewees, Avalon, Halti, JKPromo / Patrick Forsblom, Juha-Pekka Laakio, Loiste Oy / Ahomäki &
Wiksted, Marcus Greber, Markku Hotti, Mikko Nikkinen, Paul Palmer, Per Lundström PRESS PunaMusta Oy PAPER Galerie Art Silk 200 g/m2 & My Brite Silk 90 g/m2. MEDIA SALES: Levi Tourist Office Ltd / Annika Anttila, t. +358 16 639 3327, email:
annika.anttila@levi.fi
FEEDBACK: toimitus@levi.fi
5 | LeviDays
The magazine is printed in 7/2011. All rights to changes reserved.
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LeviDays | 6
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Levin Tori
– a pedestrian’s paradise
Levin Tori Hotel and Business Centre is a popular rendez-
vous point for tourists and residents alike. Come and see
all that it has to offer!
Check out the many wonderful and unique
shops and boutiques, or pamper yourself or
your whole party by selecting the best options from the wide range of wellness services available.
Within a short walking distance, there are
also lovely cafés and restaurants waiting to
serve you. For your convenience, we have put
together some ideas and hints about great
places to visit while you are in the centre. The
best way to appreciate the lure of Levin Tori is
simply to experience it firsthand.
and salads, wok dishes, finger foods, desserts
and new grilled Asian delicacies.
3 Kultainen Poro
The Kultainen Poro, located at the Hotel Hullu Poro, offers a Scandinavian fine dining
experience. The kitchen combines modern
Lappish foods and Scandinavian flavours in
delicious, quality dishes that are put together with care. This is the absolute top choice
for important events and private occasions,
such as weddings.
1 Kiisa Restaurant Catering
Before and after skiing
1 Coffee House & Bar
The Coffee House at the Sokos Hotel Levi
serves you throughout the day from morning
coffee to lunch breaks to a relaxing evening
on the town. You can enjoy the delicacies on
offer within the relaxed and comfortable atmosphere of the Coffee House or you can opt
for take away to stay on the go.
The Sokos Hotel Levi has a bright 140-seat
restaurant hall that can also be easily adapted for conference use. The hall is also well
suited for different festive occasions.
4 Irish Pub Oliver’s Corner
Get into the Irish feeling in the world’s northernmost Irish Pub. Enjoy premium-quality drinks and the cozy atmosphere. In quieter hours you can shoot a round of pool, play
darts or enjoy parlor games.
2 Oluthuone Tsekki
The Oluthuone Tsekki is a high-standard restaurant with a Central European feel. The
restaurant sells many Czech and other foreign beers on tap, as well as more than 25
bottled brews, quality wines and warm
drinks. This is truly a relaxed, warm and carefree living room for those who enjoy great
beer and wine.
4
Club Dejavu
3 Asia Brasserie
4
Loco Norte Texmex
The Asia Brasserie is an Asian-style restaurant, whose menu includes exotic flavours
from Thailand, Japan, China and India. The
Asia Brasserie’s menu has been totally renewed! You’ll find a wide selection of soups
Food in TexMex style for every taste. Works
as a starting point for the evening, as a resting spot in between activities, or as the dining venue for the night.
The exotic pearl of Levi night life. A night club
that leaves no one untouched. Hot exotic
dancers, magicians and flairbartenders raise the vibes sky high in surprise evenings. Dejavu guarantees that the Northern Lights of
the frosty nights pale beside this entertainment.
7 | LeviDays
Be well and enjoy your life!
5 Hullu Poro Day Spa
This is the ideal place to give your wind-beaten face, suffering nails and tired body the
pampering break they need. At the Day Spa,
you can forget the hustle of everyday life, relax and treat yourself. The Hullu Poro Day Spa
is located in the Kide building at Levin Tori.
6 Hierontapalvelu Anette
In between Zero Point and the new Sokos
Hotel, you will find the massage service of
Anette Mäntylä. Relaxing and soothing moments for sore muscles.
3 Sushi Bar & Inteam
The Sushi Bar & InTeam is a classy and intimate restaurant that is open afternoons
and evenings. The establishment offers lava-stone grilled foods from all corners of the
world and a wide selection of beers. Simply
order a drink and sit on one of our comfortable sofas to enjoy good music, watch television or even read.
7 Studio Feel It
Day Spa Studio Feel It is quite a unique salon. It provides a range of wellness and beauty treatments that focus on the holistic care
of your mind, body and beauty.
reational hobbies to competitive sports. The
shop also operates a comprehensive rental service. City Sport provides whatever you
need for sport, recreation and camping.
9 Caramella
Levi is also in touch with the latest in women’s fashions. Vaateliike Caramella provides
its customers with comfortable, quality
clothing that is both timeless and trendy. The
shop sells blouses, shirts, sweaters, gowns,
dresses, skirts, slacks… whatever you need!
Caramella primarily carries quality brands
from Italy.
5 Shopporo
ShopPoro, located in the Shopping Gallery,
provides clothing for both men and women. Shop for yourself or for others as gifts, the
selection includes for example Guess bags,
jewelry and watches, NoBad recycling jewelry and Vogue tights.
Levin Tori is a true shopper’s paradise. Lovely
products made from genuine Lapland wood
can be purchased from the handicraft company Wood Jewel Design Kauko Raatiniemi
Ky. Souvenirs and gifts from Wood Jewel are
all made from quality Finnish wood.
2 Intersport
Levi is an oasis of winter sports, and springtime in Lapland is the perfect time to enjoy
the snowdrifts, slopes and sunshine. The joy
of year-round sport and outdoor recreation
is assured by the wide range of clothing and
equipment provided by Intersport.
9 City Sport
City Sport offers a select range of brand
names and services for everything from rec-
9 Kana & Kannu
This pub comes equipped with a relaxed and
easy atmosphere. When you want a break
from skiing or shopping, why not stop in to
enjoy some delicious crepes and cold drinks
by the pitcher. For some, the after ski festivities continue on into the evening on the large
outdoor terrace connected to the pub.
11
Porocks
This wildly crazy nightclub provides a splash
of metropolitan flavour from the other side
of the ocean. It has been specifically designed to appeal to adult sensibilities. The
coming season promises to be even wilder and more exotic in terms of both surprise
artists and performances.
other
6 Yeti Print & Photo
The cellar shop Yeti Print & Photo provides
its customers with a variety of photograph
and digital print services. In addition to traditional products, Yeti utilises the Xerox Photo Kiosk system to produce, for example, personalised products, such as photo books
and calendars from your own digital photos,
quickly and inexpensively.
12
Kafet
The perfect way to end your shopping tour is
the cafe where you can indulge yourself with
delicious bakery products.
12
Anár Souvenir Shop
Souvenir shop with a nice atmosphere
Bar Ihku
13
Looking for something to do?
8 Wood Jewel
el also has a pool table and Nintendo game
centre.
Lapin Koru- Ja Lahjapuoti
10
Goldsmith Veikko Pesonen creates unique
jewellery for all stages of life using yellow
and white gold, gems and beautiful designs.
Levi and Lapland are reflected in Veijo’s work,
both in his own jewellery stamp and his designs, in which you can clearly read his love
for the fells, the Ounas River and the rugged
nature of Lapland.
2 Levi Bowling
Two floors of entertainment. Karaoke, stand
up and live music.
14
Jänkhä Shop
Design gifts and handicrafts as well as souvenirs.
Elecon
15
The most comprehensive electronics store
offering a wide range of e.g. lights and household appliances.
Connected with the Holiday Club hotel, Levi
Bowling provides customers with a fulllength 8-lane glow bowling alley that will
entertain the whole family. As a matter of
fact, the cellar level of the hotel contains an
entire entertainment centre, since the bowling alley is adjoined by an 80-seat, fully-licensed restaurant, Kaatobaari, which serves
up snacks and finger foods. The cellar levKati Klaavuniemi • photos: Avalon, entreprenours
LeviDays | 8
You spent the day on the slopes and your
face was weather-beaten by the freezing
temperatures, your muscles worked hard
and your hair was squashed under a winter hat. And after all that, you are supposed to go out on the town and shine on the
dance floor? Help!
Niina Tuominen, an entrepreneur with Lapp
roots, knows exactly what I’m talking about
and offers to lend a helping hand.
“When you’ve been all day on the slopes,
it is wonderful to have the opportunity to relax before going out for the night. Our services and specialities include an infrared sauna,
Indian head massage, hot stone massages,
make-up and many other beauty treatments,” says Niina.
Day Spa Studio Feel It is a new type
of high-standard beauty salon located
right in the heart of Levi. Day Spa Studio Feel It is a comprehensive wellness
concept that comprises a wide range of
wellness and beauty services. The concept aims at holistic care for the mind,
body and beauty. The salon endeavours to create a harmonic atmosphere
through the combination of various elements, such as candles and aromatic scents.
Feeling good, alone or with company
For most, a moment of pampering is an opportunity to relax and focus on oneself, but it
can also be an occasion to meet up with others and enjoy the company.
“You don’t need a special reason, event or
large sums of money to pamper yourself. Life
is full of little pleasures just waiting for you to
take advantage of them. Many go on holiday
to celebrate a special occasion or to spend
quality time with girlfriends or a spouse. The
most important aspect of pampering is a leisurely attitude and the feeling of being master of your own timetable.”
“The objective is to create a holistic experience that allows the customer to relax
through all the senses,” Niina explains.
The salon offers an extremely comprehensive range of different massages. If you decide to have the wonderfully warm chocolate
body massage, you should also try the luxurious chocolate facial. Or, if you prefer, have
your facial and full body massage with caviar
or champagne instead of chocolate, and follow it up with a glass of bubbly to complete
your moment of luxury. The full treatment of a peel, massage and facial will
inevitably be something to remember.
The Day Spa also houses the M Room,
a barbershop designed specifically for
male customers, which operates without appointments. You can even conveniently book beauty treatments
at Day Spa Studio Feel It in advance
through the spa’s own website.
“Different types of natural Asian-style
warm aromatherapy massages, for example, are very popular choices for couples. After the massage, the husband can opt to have
his hair cut, while his wife is having glamorous lashes or glittering nails applied. Many
customers also come to try out the body sugaring hair removal services. Holidays are
definitely a time to pamper yourself,” Niina
states and warmly welcomes all those looking for a little luxury in their lives.
Kati Klaavuniemi • photo: Avalon
9 | LeviDays
Although Levi is a spectacular holiday destination for families, there are also plenty of enter-
taining options for night owls.
The party’s on at V’inkkari
V’inkkari is one of Levi’s most popular slopeside restaurants. This
café, located beside the slopes at the centre of Levi, has already
gained a reputation that extends as far as Central Europe. And this
is one place that definitely lives up to its reputation. After a great day
of hitting the slopes, visitors enjoy stretching their legs while dancing on the benches and tables on V’inkkari’s terrace. Beloved party
hits blast from the sound system while the DJ entertains the crowd
with his witty remarks.
In the afternoon hours, the queue waiting to get into V’inkkari
may stretch up to tens of metres long. The group already partying
on the terrace is rocking to the beat of the popular ‘Bob the Builder’ theme song – everyone knows or can quickly learn the seemingly required dance moves. Your throat may be hoarse from singing out
loud while the speakers pulsate with hits like “Hey! Baby”, “Den glider
in” and “Älä anna muille (Kun sä menet Lappiin)”.
A touch of the Irish
When V’inkkari closes, you can turn your dancing feet toward, for
example, the Irish pub Oliver’s Corner, where the atmosphere is
LeviDays | 10
through the roof. Located at the heart of Levi’s central square, Oliver’s Corner is the world’s northernmost Irish pub. The pub offers a
wide range of quality ales and other drinks. The pub itself recommends that you try the Irish staple, a pint of dark Guinness. The music is often provided by a live band, and during sporting events, one
might find the pub filled with enthusiastic fans that have come to
follow the games. In the pub’s quieter moments, customers can play
a round of pool, throw darts or enjoy a parlour game.
The night progresses and now is the ideal moment to drop into the
Spa Hotel Levitunturi to enjoy the relaxing warmth of Finnish saunas and the refreshing cool pools. If you are still up for it, the evening can continue with a delicious meal and a twirl on the dance floor.
Spa Hotel Levitunturi offers live music performances every night of
the year. All of the brightest stars of the Finnish dance music scene
have performed at the venue.
It is important to eat well, so that you have the energy to go on
partying the night away. In Levi, you can take advantage of the many
renowned restaurants and Lappish delicacies or cook for yourself in
your own holiday cottage. Often, it is also the trend to invite new ac-
Jelly doughnuts, sugar doughnuts, frosted doughnuts...
yum....all kinds for all types
quaintances to join you for dinner. Women,
in particular, seem to enjoy being pampered;
after all, they are on holiday and away from
their daily chores at home.
Doughnuts are an essential part of any active day outdoors. They are made from
sweet dough and deep-fried in fat or lard.
A doughnut is a sizeable but delicious energy booster, which makes any break rewarding.
In Levi, doughnuts are on the menu in
nearly every café. Ideally, they are fresh
and soft, but sometimes you might come
across a dry doughnut. If this happens to
you, you need only to select a beverage or
hot drink that will moisten and soften the
doughnut, enhance its flavour and salvage
your entire doughnut experience.
Milk is an especially good partner for a
doughnut. Coffee or cocoa are also well
suited as moisteners. Finnish traditions on
May Day include enjoying a sugar doughnut and mead, an undeniably great com-
bination. Sometimes doughnuts have even
been enjoyed with cider or beer, but it’s not
customary.
Mari Storhammar • photo: loiste
Where can I find these delicious doughnuts?
If you are on cross country skis,
for example, ski on over to Luvattumaa to feast on their homemade doughnuts. Another popular
ski-trail café can also be found at
Sammun tupa. The slopeside restaurants in Levi all offer mouthwatering doughnuts to slalom skiers – try them and you will see why
they are such a hit!
Let’s party like crazy
As the night approaches, let your feet lead to
the Rock Café Wanha Hullu Poro, where hit
songs will draw you onto the dance floor. The
atmosphere is intense and you will be among
friends in no time. In the smoker’s area in the
backyard of the café, if you are feeling daring, you can enter the karaoke hut, with its
long wooden benches, genuine tin drinking
mugs and the opportunity to grill sausages.
The Lapp hut-style room quickly enfolds you
in its cosy atmosphere.
The evening culminates, of course, with a
live concert in the famous Hullu Poro Areena.
The arena is large, but the atmosphere is intimate. The arena stage has hosted many big
Finnish names and none of the bands have
left the audience unsatisfied. This electrified atmosphere will make you itch to get going toward the dance floor. The service in the
arena is excellent, the fun is contagious and
you may even run into many of your new ’old
acquaintances’.
Mari Storhammar • PHOTOS: PAUL PALMER
11 | LeviDays
Sample of a seven-day programme
for the winter season
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Bookings mus
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Tourist Inform
(1st January–6th May 2012)
Aurora Safari. Starting at 7 p.m. from the centre of Levi. Come and experience the shimmering Northern Lights! The journey starts as darkness falls. In the wilderness, we may explore the
changing sky and, with some luck, we hope to
spot the Northern Lights. Duration 2 ½–3 hrs,
covering about 35 km. During the safari, warm
beverages will be served. Please note: the safari
is organized weather permitting. Price €110/person (1 person/snowmobile), € 85/person (2 persons/snowmobile), € 55/child (under 12 yrs).
Dog-sled safari with lunch. Departure
from Levi Tourist Information at 10
a.m. Duration about 3 hrs. This 15 km
dog-sled safari will take you through
snowy forests. You can drive your own
team of dogs or sit in a sled (2 persons/
sled). After the ride we enjoy a meatsoup lunch by the fire. Price € 130/
adult, € 80/child (4–11 yrs). Transport is
included in the price.
Reindeer and Ice Fishing. Departure
from Levi Tourist Information at 12
p.m. (midday). Duration about 3
½ hrs. Trip including a 3 km ride
in a reindeer sled. After the
ride, we try ice fishing and
enjoy salmon soup. Price €
76/adult, € 38/child (4–12
yrs). Transport is included in the price.
Snowmobile Safari to a wilderness
tepee (kota). Starting at 1 p.m. from
the centre of Levi. Duration about
1 ½–2 ½ hrs, covering 25 km. The
snowmobile route takes us through
the forests to our private wilderness
tepee (kota). There, we will enjoy a
hot drink. Price € 75/person (1 person/
snowmobile), € 60/person (2 persons/
snowmobile), € 30/child (under 15 yrs).
Icelandic Horse Trek in Levi. Departure from the Stables (on Kaarelantie, 2 km
from Levi) at 10 a.m. Duration about 2 hrs. Price € 65/person, including safety
gear. Transport is not included in the price.
Snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm.
Starting at 10 a.m. from the centre of Levi.
Duration 3–4 hrs, driving distance 30–60
km. The snowmobile route takes us via
lakes and forests to a local reindeer farm.
We will experience reindeer-led transport
for about 1 km, after which we will have
a cup of coffee or tea. Price € 132/person
(2 persons/snowmobile) or € 171/person (1
person/ snowmobile), € 66/child (4-14 yrs,
seat in a sled pulled by a snowmobile driven by the guide).
Panorama Snowshoe Trip. Start from the Gondola 2000 lift lower station at 12 p.m. (midday),
duration about 3 hours. If the weather permits,
we will reach the peak of Levi Fell and enjoy the
magnificent scenery. We will walk at a leisurely pace so as to admire the view, until we arrive
at View Restaurant Tuikku, where we will enjoy
coffee and a bun. Price €60/adult, €30/child (712 years). Price includes a gondola lift pass, coffee and bun, and snowshoeing gear. Transport is
not included in the price. Suitable for people of
regular fitness level.
Trek to a Pine Forest with Finnhorses. An experience in the fell landscape of the pure Lappish countryside. Departure from the Stables (about 5 km from the centre of Levi) at 10 a.m.
Duration about 2 hours. Price €65/person (both adult and child). Price includes safety gear,
LeviDays | 12 hot drink and cookies. Transport is not included in the price.
Please dress according to weather
conditions and events on the programme!
Various prog
ramme serv
ices can also
for any day of
be booked
the week.
Further info
rmation from
Levi Tourist
tion: tel. +3
Informa58 16 639 33
00 or levi.in
fo@levi.fi
Kota Tour with Reindeer. Departure from Levi
Tourist Information at 10 a.m. 3 km journey
with a stop half-way in a Lappish tepee (kota).
During the break, coffee and grilled sausages will be served. Duration about 2 hrs. Price
€ 50/person, € 25/child (4–12 yrs). Transport is
Night Experience Trip to Levi Fell. Departure at 8 p.m.
from Levi Tourist Information. Duration 2 ½ hrs. Price
€ 50/adult, € 25/child (8-11 yrs). Price includes snowshoeing gear, warm beverages and a light snack. We will get to
know the starry sky with the help of the guide and, with
any luck, we might spot the Northern Lights. Transport is
Rally kart – power slide on an ice track. Departure from Levi Tourist Information at 4 p.m.
Duration around 1 hour. The guests are supplied with complete winter gear (thermal
overalls, shoes, gloves, hoods and helmet). Warm drinks are served throughout the programme. Price € 50/person (both adult and child). Minimum
height 140 cm. Transport is included
in the price.
Trip to the Husky Park at Köngäs. Departure from Levi Tourist Information
at 10.30 a.m. A 2 km sled ride (sitting in
the sled) for € 37/adult and € 22/child
(2–11 yrs) or a 5 km sled ride (driving by
yourself) for € 62/adult and € 32/child
(2–11 yrs). Transport is included in the
price.
Snow Village Safari. Starting at 10 a.m. from the centre of Levi. We will drive
by snowmobile to Lainio Snow Village, where we will get to know the village,
snow hotel & bar, ice sculptures amongst other attractions. After the tour, we
will have the soup of the day for lunch and a cup of coffee at Lainio Krouvi restaurant. Duration 5–7 hrs, covering about 90 km. Price € 199/person (1 person/
snowmobile) or € 155/person (2 persons/snowmobile) and € 80/child (under 12
yrs). Children under 10 years may not participate.
Arctic Rides - with Huskies and Reindeer. Enjoy the highlights of your holiday during one trip. Departure from Levi Tourist Information at 1 p.m. Duration around 2 hrs. A thrilling husky ride and a peaceful reindeer ride await you.
Programme including a 2 km husky ride sitting in a sled and a short reindeer ride
(500 m) sitting in a sleigh; a light snack will be served. Price € 65/adult, € 35/child
(2 –11 yrs); family price € 190/2 adults + 3 children. Transport is included in the price.
Snowmobile Safari. Departure from Levi Tourist Information at 1.45 p.m.
Duration around 2 hrs, covering 40 km. This driving safari takes us along
easy routes near Levi. Price € 109/person (1 person/snowmobile) or € 79/
person (2 persons/snowmobile) and child € 35 (under 12 yrs), seated in a
sled. Transport is included in the price.
Snowmobile Safari to the Levi Ice Gallery. Departure from the centre of Levi at 10 a.m. Duration 2-3 hrs, distance around 35 km. Our route
will take us around Levi Fell to Luvattumaa.
We will visit the snow castle and the ice restaurant. Finally, we will take a break for coffee
and then drive back to Levi. The safari costs €
115/person (1 person/snowmobile) or € 85/person (2 persons/snowmobile); children (5–11 yrs)
€ 57 each, seated in a sled.
City Safari on Kick Sled. Departure from Levi
Tourist Information at 5 p.m. Duration around
2 ½ hrs. Have fun getting to know the town
of Levi by sled. We will also be stopping at a
kota tepee for grilled sausages and a warm
drink. The guide will tell you tales about Lapland. The tour costs € 45/adult and € 25/child
(4–11 yrs).
All programmes depend on weather conditions. We reserve the right to amend the programme.
13 | LeviDays
Your mobile
phone
is your best
friend in Levi
The ‘m.levi.fi’ mobile service in Levi
is a comprehensive service entity
aimed at travellers, company customers and local entrepreneurs. It
brings all the services in the area
right to your fingertips.
The Levi Digit project has developed and realised the mobile systems, m.levi.fi and
m.kittila.fi, for use in the Levi and Kittilä areas.
“The m.levi.fi service is a pioneer endeavour in Finland; I doubt that any comparable
systems exist anywhere else in the country,”
states Katja Kaunismaa, Project Manager.
“Today, people are equipped with extremely handy smartphones, which they can
use to access the Internet for their e-mail,
social media services and so forth. The mobile service provides up-to-date information directly to the user’s mobile phone, and
the m.levi.fi service is tailored specifically to
serve those looking for information about
what’s going on in and around Levi,” adds
LeviDays | 14
Minna Mikkonen, Project Employee at Levi
Tourist Information .
Services at your fingertips
Levi’s new mobile service provides its customers with completely new methods of accessing information, booking services and
planning their overall holiday in Levi. The
service’s electronic content is provided via a
multichannel system, so that with one feed,
information can be simultaneously trans-
ferred to the Internet, the new mobile service and Levi’s own Levi Channel TV service,
which is visible to 90 per cent of the area’s
overnight residents.
“Levi’s diverse service entity is packaged
into an easily-accessible, clear and modern
mobile interface, which works in numerous
different mobile devices. On the whole, Levi’s
mobile service was created to improve the
overall experience of consumers, to facilitate
the search for services and to provide new
Levi’s diverse service entity
is packaged into an easilyaccessible, clear and modern
mobile interface, which works
in numerous different mobile
devices. On the whole, Levi’s
mobile service was created
to improve the overall
experience of consumers, to
facilitate the search for services
and to provide new impetus
for one’s holiday
and book it easily by choosing the ‘click to
call’ option that puts them in direct contact
with Levi Tourist Information. Additionally,
they can request offers from Levi’s Central
Booking Office (Keskusvaraamo in Finnish)
through their mobile phone.”
impetus for one’s holiday,” Minna explains.
“Travellers in Levi now have an easy way to
get pertinent information about the slopes
and trails, overnight alternatives, traffic,
weather, restaurant options and lots of other fun events and experiences,” Katja adds.
No need to wait at the bus stop
Various maps of the tracks, slopes and locations of service companies are integrated, in
a mobile optimised fashion, into Levi’s mo-
bile service. The real-time information concerning lift and slope conditions, as provided by numerous slope cameras, ensures that
slalom services are running smoothly.
Guests can also check the progress and location of the Ski Bus in real-time before they
even walk to the bus stop. Levi has found a
great way to keep its guests effortlessly on
time and exactly where they want to be.
“Users accessing the weekly programmes
can select the programme of their choice
Levi also holds its own in social media
Social media is gradually becoming an even
greater tool for marketing. Companies are
beginning to lose interest in updating their
traditional websites and are, at least partially, turning their attention to media tools and
services, which can be combined with other
facilities.
“The majority of the public does not believe things that brands say about themselves. They believe what their friends and
acquaintances are telling them about these
brands. Companies need to be aware of the
fact that consumers are seeking out more
and more information about products from
their own social networks. Furthermore, social media is a handy tool, because it can be
easily integrated with other services,” Katja
points out.
“For example, Levi’s Facebook site already
has more than 30,000 fans. This tells us that
people are interested in Levi-related content
and Levi itself, even at times when it isn’t included in any immediate holiday plans,”
Minna states.
Kati Klaavuniemi • photos: Avalon
15 | LeviDays
“These kinds of things
don’t even happen in
fairy tales…”
LeviDays | 16
Tanja Poutiainen, what has been your best competition in
Levi?
“The World Cup in spring 2004. There are two reasons for that: it
was the first ever Alpine World Cup race to take place in Finland
and my first World Cup race victory. I remember thinking that
these kinds of things don’t even happen in fairy tales. It went
better than I could ever have planned.”
Do you still remember what it felt like when you passed
over the finish line?
“I still remember clearly, even specific details of the race. For instance, when I was in the lead after the first round, the crowd’s
enthusiasm, and the feeling when I finished the second round
and realised I had won. I still get goosebumps when I think
about it.”
What has been the most challenging race in Levi?
“In the years following my World Cup win, I skied well in Levi
but didn’t make it back onto the winner’s podium until 2009.
Maybe my slalom skills were not as honed then as they were in
2004 and as they are now. During those years, I just wasn’t able
to succeed at the same level.”
How do you avoid the extra pressure of home races?
“By ensuring that I have done my best. In other words, I have
had a good training season, my equipment is up to scratch and
I know that I am at the top of my game.”
When do you start to prepare mentally?
“One week before the race, I am already really focused. Strangers may not get a whole lot out of me during that time and I
may answer questions a bit mechanically (smile). It is such an
important race for me, because I really want to succeed in Levi.
I am a great deal more focused than I am for any other race.
Those close to me may notice a little tension, but it is only a sign
that I am looking to do my best.”
What are your goals for Levi in the future?
“I would like to win in Levi a second time during my career.
However, I am not putting any additional pressure on myself to
that end; I see it more as an opportunity. In the end, there are always 10 other women who also want to win.”
Which of the other competitors is a close friend of yours?
“We don’t really keep in touch outside of the season. During the
season, my closest friends are the other Finns: fellow skier Sanni Leinonen and physiotherapist Saija Määttä (Finnish women’s Alpine Ski Team). Saija is a great friend with whom I can talk
about anything while we are travelling. Of the foreign skiers, I
am close to Italian skier Denise Karbon, who is the same age
and has achieved a great deal during her career. I have known
her for 15 years.”
Do you have any tips for World Cup visitors?
“Bring your sports enthusiasm with you. It is truly a spectacular
event, and you should try to enjoy every minute. After all, you
will be seeing world-class skiing up close and personal. The atmosphere is something that you can only experience there. Be
sure to dress warmly!”
teemu kytövuori • photo:paul palmer
A co-driver
for the
competition slope
A Finnish alpine star of the World Cup at
Levi, Tanja Poutiainen, gives advice on how
to descend the famous Black slope.
Start
The start of the slope is more gentle than average, so try to use this
moment to find a good rhythm.
Take this section as fast as you can.
The Levi Black slope
Height difference: 180 metres
The icing requires 2.5 million litres of water
Steepest point: 52%
The competition course contains 57-62 gates = 120 poles
Competition slope: 2 km of fencing, 750 m of protection mattresses
The upper section and finish line area are iced over by 30 employees.
Due to the steepness of the slope, those working on it are forced to wear shoes
equipped with ice picks - they must walk leaning backwards or even altogether backwards.
Visit our online site to learn more about this unique event at Levi:
Worldcuplevi.com
Moguls
provide nice variation. Really concentrate in the moguls – you can’t gain a lot here, but you can lose tremendously. The mogul always signifies a change of
rhythm. Even a small error affects your performance
on the even sections.
On the brink of the steep section
Sharper than average. This section will make
you or break you mentally. Be careful when
approaching this point.
The bottom of the steep section
Once you hit the even surface at the end of
the steep, you should dare to let go and pick
up whatever speed you can still gain from
the steep slope before you find yourself on
the gentle part of the run.
Taking the steep slope
Keep your speed under control during
this section.
A sharp curve
Make the most of every turn! You must pay
sharp attention to the near hollow at the
base of the steep part of the slope. Don’t allow your skis to veer crossways at all or else it
may be difficult to recover your speed.
The final 10 gates
Give it your all right before the finish line.
Really push yourself to your limits right
up until the very end.
teemu kytövuori • photo: Avalon
17 | LeviDays
Top international Alpine skiers
Lindsey Vonn, USA
Born: 18 October 1984
Lindseyvonn.com
World Cup 10/11: overall World Cup #2,
09/10: overall World Cup #1
Olympics: downhill #1, Super G #3
Maria Hoefl-Riesch, GER
Born: 24 November 1984
Mariariesch.de
World Cup 10/11: overall World Cup #1, 09/10:
overall World Cup #2
Olympics: slalom #1, combined #1
During last season’s World Cup, Lindsey Vonn
lost the overall World Cup title by a mere
three points to Maria Hoefl-Riesch. At the
Olympics in Vancouver, Vonn grabbed the
gold in the downhill and bronze in the Super
G. This American superstar, who once made
a guest appearance on the popular television
series ‘Law & Order’, placed sixth in the opening World Cup race in Levi during the 2010201 season.
The tall and thin Hoefl-Riesch took the overall World Cup victory by only three points
during the 2010-2011 season. At Levi, the German skier came in second in both 2009 and
2010. In the last Olympic games, Hoefl-Riesch succeeded well and came home with
two gold medals.
Bode Miller, USA
Bodemiller.com
World Cup 10/11: overall World Cup #14
Olympics: combined #1, Super G #2,
downhill #3
Silvan Zurbriggen, SUI
Born: 15 August 1981
Silvanzurbriggen.ch
Olympics: slalom #12
Reinfried Herbst, AUT
Reini-herbst.com
World Cup 10/11: overall #30
This Swiss skier takes on all of the World Cup
disciplines and came out among the best in
the slalom and combined competitions during the season before last. Zurbriggen placed
sixth in both the overall World Cup and in the
Levi race in November 2010.
This slalom specialist was not at his best in
Levi during the 2010-2011 season. Despite his
rather poor results in the overall during the
World Cup last season, this Salzburg Skiclub
representative can surprise you.
It just wouldn’t be alpine skiing without Bode
Miller. This American skier may not be completely living up to his past performances,
but the three medals he brought him from
the Olympics in Vancouver definitely reflect
his abilities. At Levi, Bode is a favourite of
both the audience and the media.
LeviDays | 18
Marlies Schild, AUT
Born: 31 May 1981
Marlies-schild.com
Olympics: slalom #2
Marlies Schild was the queen of the opening
World Cup race in Levi in November 2010. In
the overall World Cup competition, the Austrian skier placed sixth. Schild brought home
the silver medal in the slalom at the Olympics in Vancouver.
Finnish alpine stars
Kathrin Zettel, AUT
Born: 5 August 1986
Kathrin-zettel.at
Under the strain of injuries, Zettel was naturally not at the top of her game this last season. An expert in technique is, however, always a formidable competitor. During recent
years, Zettel has traditionally been one of
Tanja Poutiainen’s toughest opponents.
Julien Lizeroux, FRA
Born: 5 September 1979
Lizeroux.com
Olympics: slalom #9, combined #18
Even as one of the top slalom skiers at the
World Cup, Lizeroux was unable to present a
challenge for Herbst, who took the title in the
season before last. During the 2010-2011 season, this talented Frenchman descended Levi
to come in tenth.
Tanja Poutiainen
Born: 6 April 1980 Rovaniemi
Club: Santa Claus Ski Team
Best placing at Levi: winner during
the 2004-2005 season
This Rovaniemi native took third place in
November 2010 on her home slope, and
thoroughly enjoyed Levi’s competition
slope. The home audience always shows
tremendous and wild support for Tanja
during her runs.
Kalle Palander
Born: 2 May 1977 Tornio
Club: Ruka Slalom
(joint)
Best placing at Levi: #11 in 2006.
Kalle’s injuries are now all behind him and
as long as his physical condition can bear
up to the challenge, Kalle has all the potential to once again rise to the top of the pack.
Kalle brings a splash of colour to Finnish alpine skiing and never leaves his audience
in Levi cold.
Sanni Leinonen
Born: 8 November 1989 Siilinjärvi
Club: Tampereen Slalom-Seura
Best placing at Levi: #21 in 2006
During the 2010-2011 season, Sanni
Leinonen did not make it through to the
second round at Levi. This determined and
talented young alpine star has recovered
well from her injury and is always ready to
bring it on for her fellow competitors.
Andreas Romar
Born: 4 September 1989 Mustasaari
Club: Vasa Skidklubb
(joint)
Best placing at Levi: #9 in the giant slalom
at the European Cup in 2009
The alpine star shine even more brightly
when this virtuoso races downhill. Andreas is a young talent who focuses primarily on the speed disciplines. Andy sped by in
a flash as he set the bar for the first splittime at the 2010 slalom at Levi.
19 | LeviDays
LeviDays | 20
Mikko Saarinen, Jouni Palosaari and Mikko Luukkaa, all members of the organisation committee, celebrate a successful event.
What attracts more than 200 million pairs of eyes to the television screen?
Answer: The FIS Alpine Ski World Cup event in Levi
When the first ever slalom World Cup
races were organised in Levi, Mikko
Saarinen, the Secretary General of the
organisation, was still studying at the
then Helsinki Business Polytechnic - Helia. Since that time, Mikko has worked
hard for the World Cup organisation,
first as event coordinator and, since
2007, in his current position.
“The competition already gathers
quite an audience in Levi, but we are still
looking to develop the event to encourage people to come well in advance of
the competition and enjoy all that Levi
has to offer,” Mikko states.
“We must be able to create enough
supplementary programmes to enhance
the overall competition experience.”
Its humble beginnings
Ideas concerning the organising of a
World Cup race in Levi began to circulate
at the end of the 1990s. In the minds of
the sceptics, the whole concept sounded
a bit utopian.
“The Finnish alpine skiing culture
took a giant leap forward during the
decade following the year 2000, when
both Tanja Poutiainen and Kalle Palander took several of the top places,” Mikko explains.
With a strict work discipline and innovative attitude, the arranging committee was finally able to attract the famous white circus to Levi in 2004.
Only two years after the first event,
the competition returned again to Levi.
At that time, Levi also got a position on the men’s competition
calendar. That year was significant for Levi in terms of investments as well; for example, major advancements were made
in the snowmaking technology.
“We also suggested to the FIS that the alpine skiing season
should begin in Levi. Nowhere else in the world do you find
comparable conditions,” Mikko emphasises.
The proposal came at the ideal moment, since the FIS was
under pressure to renew their competition calendar. The sixweek break between the opening competition and the next
race was too long a period. Levi got its chance.
“Everything was based on the fact that we organised the
first competition so successfully.”
Future direction and goals
In 2008 and 2009, Levi hosted very successful competitions.
The FIS shows great confidence in and appreciation for Levi.
“The first round of competitions was, for us, a sort of trial
run, but now we have the experience and competence to organise an international event of this calibre.”
The FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Levi is among the ladies’ races
the one getting the most TV-time around the world. The Levi
men’s race places eighth. The FIS has confirmed Levi’s participation in the World Cup for the 2014–2015 season.
“We now work in a more relaxed atmosphere in comparison
to those first years,” says Mikko.
There is no telling how alpine skiing will develop over, for
instance, the next decade. The World Cup in Levi seems to go
hand-in-hand with the Finnish alpine team.
“Just like the alpine racing team, our competition also calls
for the participation of Finnish slalom stars. Interest in the
sport is sustained and increased when the audience can also
come out to cheer on their own national stars.
“This is a win-win situation for everyone. We are fortunately in a position in which there is a clear need for the Levi competition, both in terms of its competition dates and geographic location.”
teemu kytövuorii • photo: paul palmer
21 | LeviDays
You should absolutely pack the following items when
getting ready to go to the Alpine Ski World Cup in Levi:
Technology
A camera & memory card = ensure that you can take
as many photos as you want
Binoculars/telescope = see the action up close and
personal
A smart phone = visit m.levi.fi
Two pens/markers + notepad = collect autographs
•
•
•
•
Attire
Supportive, comfortable and warm
footwear
Warm layers of clothing as person ally necessary
Good dancing shoes for the
evening parties
•
•
•
WC programme and public events 2011
Friday, 11 November 2011
Levi Centre, Zero Point
6.45 p.m. Opening ceremony
7 p.m. Public draw, women
7.15 p.m. Live artists on stage
Saturday, 12 November 2011
Levi Black
10.30 a.m. Pre Race
11 a.m. Slalom ladies, 1st run
2 p.m. Slalom ladies, 2nd run
3 p.m. Probably The Best
After Ski, public tent
Levi Centre, Zero Point
7 p.m. Award ceremony, women
7.15 p.m. Public draw, men
7.30 p.m. Live artists on stage
Extra
Fun company
The race magazine
+ LeviDays
Sporty and
light-hearted
attitude
•
•
•
Sunday, 13 November 2011
Levi Black
10.30 a.m. Pre Race
11 a.m. Slalom men, 1st run
2 p.m. Slalom men, 2nd run
Men’s award ceremony in the
finish area following the race.
All rights reserved as
concerns changes to
the timetable. Check out
Worldcuplevi.fi
teemu kytövuori • illustration: Avalon
LeviDays | 22
It’s easy
to get to Levi!
nearest airport or Levi is only as far as the
lead to your holiday.
train station. All routes
[ Travel tip #1 ]
If you are planning to be in Levi during the
summer season, remember to hire a free
village bike. You will have fun while also
doing your part to take care of our environment!
It is fun to plan a holiday, particularly
when you are assisted in the task by the
holiday specialists at Levi Travel. You can
check out the weekly programmes before
you ever even leave home. Jump into an
adventure – let’s plan the holiday of your
dreams!
The fastest way to reach Levi from Europe is to fly. From Paris or Riga, for example, there are straight flights to Kittilä. You
can also make your way to the area via
Helsinki, which can be reached from most
European airports. Furthermore, there are
also direct routes to Levi from e.g. Seinäjoki, Tampere or Vaasa. Once you have arrived at Kittilä Airport, it is only another
15-minute drive to the village of Sirkka in
the heart of Levi.
Driving through Europe
Motorists travel in accordance with their
own timetable. For example, a road trip
from Berlin to Levi is a distance of 2,300 kilometres, but there are surely many great
stops along the route. The drive should be
planned in advance to avoid any unnecessary detours, and a GPS navigation system
would be a huge help on the journey. Optimal routes can be found online from different map search systems. At the same
time, be sure to locate suitable service stations along your chosen route in order to
refuel both yourself and your vehicle.
Travelling by coach is also a handy way
to reach Levi. The nationwide network of
bus routes in Finland and the frequent
journey options ensure that you will get
where you are going when you want to
get there. Thus, you can easily plan in advance how best to combine a flight and
coach ride. Or you can come by ship to
Turku or Helsinki and continue from there
by coach.
The train is a fun and carefree way to
travel. The trains in Finland will carry you
all the way north to Kolari and Rovaniemi. The journey from Kolari to Levi is 80
km and from Rovaniemi approximately
170 km. There is always a regularly scheduled coach leaving Kolari upon the arrival
of the train, and the coach also runs from
Rovaniemi to Levi every day. Rovaniemi
can also be reached by aeroplane from
most European cities.
[ Travel tip #2 ]
You don’t necessarily need a car to get
around Levi, since, for example, the Ski
Bus travels all around the fell during the
winter season. Short distances within the
village of Sirkka are easy to manoeuvre on
foot. During the summer, a bicycle is the
handy way to go; quality bikes are available from several rental businesses in the
area. The Sokos Hotel Levi has a heated
parking garage for 170 cars.
Levi Travel
T. +358 16 639 3380, levitravel@levi.fi.
Timetables and price information:
Finnair.fi
Blue1.fi
Fc.fi
Airbaltic.com
VR, tel. +358 600 41900, vr.fi
Schedules of Rovaniemi–Levi coaches:
Matkahuolto, tel. +358 (0)200 4000,
Matkahuolto.fi
Cross-country coach from Helsinki
or Turku: Korsisaari.fi
Kati Klaavuniemi • photo: Avalon
23 | LeviDays
All in one!
by the Front pistes
Openbetween9a.m.and7p.m.duringthewinterseason
Everything that you need for the fell is available
under one roof
• Aspaciousrentalwhereyouwillfindequipmentfor
downhillskiing,snowboarding,cross-countryand
telemarkskiing.Alsoavailableforhirearehelmets,
sledges,blades,snowshoes,snowscoots,etc.
• 8skipasssalespointsfromwhichyoucanwalk
straighttothepistesandthelifts.
• AtCaféTanja,youcanenjoypastriesorforlunchsoups,
saladsandsandwichmeals.
• AtLevi.Shop,youcangetthelatestinternational
fashiondesignsbothforthepistesandforcasualwear.
"EasydaysbyLevi"isLevi'sowncasualclothescollec tion.TheLevi-mascotLeevitakesanadventureonprod uctsthatarespeciallydesignedforchildren.
• InadditiontotherangeofclothesintheTanjaPoutiai nenHaltiStore,youcanalsotakealookatourfirstWorld
Cupwinner'scompetitivecareer.
Skipassoffices,rentalsandLevi.Shopscanalsobefoundby
thelowerliftstationoftheGondola,theSouth(liftnr.8)and
Northeast(liftnr.6)pistes.
OfficialPartnersofLevi
LeviDays | 24
Set off down the piste
safely with ski school.
InLevi'shigh-qualityskischool,youwilllearn
newskillsorreviseoldonesinagrouporin
yourownprivatelesson.Downhillskiing,
cross-countryskiing,snowboardingandtelemarktuitiontakesplaceinthewinterseason
dailybetween10a.m.and6p.m.
Reservations by email skischool@levi.fi
• Levitunturi(Levifell)summitheight
= 531 m, vertical drop from top to
bottom = 325 m
• 45pistes,ofwhichthelongestis
2,500m(3black,23red,18blueand
1green)
• 17illuminatedpistes,
18withsnow-makingfacilities
• SnowPark,1half-pipe,1superpipe,
2streets,Kid’sLandandday-care
area "Tenavatokka"
• 26liftsand10freechildren'slifts
• liftcapacity:27,600peopleperhour
• freeskibuses
• 230kmofcross-countryskiing
trails,ofwhich28kmareilluminated
and9kmhavesnow-makingfacilities
• internationalFISandWorldCup
skiing centre
MediaPartners
Adventure Park
ThestationsandactivitiesinAdventurePark
provide the entire family and groups with an
almost endless series of exciting challenges
that require concentration, coordination
and the use of strength.
AdventureParkhas6trailsand65differentstations.Alongthetrails,youcanclimboverfences,
traveldownrockywallswithropes,andswing
onfootbridgessuspendedmanymetersoffthe
ground.There’satrailforkidsfrom4to6years,
andforthefearlessthere’sevenatrailthat’s9
metersofftheground.AdventureParkoffersrelaxation,adventureandfun.Try your courage
andyourskill!
Take a fast ride!
LeviBikeParkisthemostnorthernKonaBikePark!
TheGondola2000cabinliftcarriesbikersuptowhere
FreerideandDownhilltracksbegin.TheDHtrackisfor
expertsand2freeridetrailsareforeverylevelof
riderswhichmayalsogoaroundchallengingparts.
Freeridebikingtakesplacealongwidebankedtrails
totightandtwistysingletracks.Santa´sCabinis
designedformoreexperiencedbikersbutBlue
Groovesuitsalsoforintermediatebikers.Juniors
andbeginnershavetheirowntrailwithfuntasksat
lowerliftstation.TheheightdifferenceatBikePark
is310meters!
More information on www.bikepark.fi
TheLeviKonabikerentalsofferthefinestbikes
andsafetyequipmentforDH,freeride,mountain
androadbiking.Gondolarentalalsosellsand
servicesequipment.AnotherrentalatFront
pistes,middleofthevillage.
FamilieswillenjoyTrafficPark,SkatePark,
18-holesminigolf,9-trackdiscgolfandtennis courts .
Oy Levi Ski Resort Ltd, tel. +358 20 7960 200, leviskiresort@levi.fi
25 | LeviDays
Levi.fi
LeviDays | 26
When picking berries in the woods, should you take to your
heels if you happen to run into a strangely twisted tree stump?
There is plenty to be mystified
by in Levi: Northern lights, the
midnight sun, the halo phenomenon, Santa Claus and
his elves, and many other exciting things. And we must not forget
the shamans, gnomes, earth spirits, forest sprites and other secrets
of Lapland.
A native in Kittilä, Sini Siitonen has
seen to the enormous job of collecting
and studying mystical stories prevailing in the Kittilä area. Sini is a
spontaneous personality, and there is no need to be scared of her –
even though she is distantly related to the famous shaman Päiviö
of Kittilä. Studying her own family history inspired Sini to explore
deeper into Northern mythology.
“It appeared that our family in Kittilä is related to the great historical shaman, Päiviö. In addition, there were a few other shamans in
our family tree as well,” Sini explains with a friendly smile.
For some people, learning about a history of witchcraft in one’s family might have caused sleepless nights. Was Sini scared by her magical roots?
“Oh no, I took it quite calmly. As a local, I believe in signs and
omens: some people have the gift of seeing and reading surrounding auspices and auguries. But, of course, as a researcher,
I can put these things in the right perspective,” Sini says.
Kittilä is home to many ‘seita’ stones
Sini widened her studies to complement her degree studies at
the University of Lapland. Sini, who graduated with a Master’s
degree in Education, has collected an extensive amount of material concerning narratives about Lapp shamans, ‘seita’ worship
stones, fairies, elves, devils and nightmares from the Kittilä area.
She is thoroughly acquainted with the works of Juha Pentikäinen, T. I. Itkonen, Samuli Paulaharju and many others.
“I have more than 200 references to narratives listed in my study,”
Sini describes the results of her work.
The work is, however, not completed yet, and in the future, Sini
aims to further widen her studies. According to T. I. Itkonen’s sources,
it appears that there have been at least 14 known ‘seita’ stones in the
area around Kittilä.
Of these ancient worship places, the magnificent seita of Taatsi
has survived the best. It is located less than hundred kilometres from
Levi, so it is a good destination for a one-day outing.
Who dares to go there?
In ancient Lapland, the Sami people considered ‘seita’ stones and
other sacred places of worship as the actual dwelling places of the
mighty spirit.
“Usually, and so also in Kittilä, they were high places, such as cliffs,
rocky islands or capes, or a fell or hill as a whole.”
What advice has the local culture and myth
enthusiast to give to tourists visiting the ancient sacred places?
“First of all, you must respect the old beliefs
and everyone’s personal attitudes towards beliefs
in general. Second, you must respect the law protecting these historical monuments of antiquity,
so as to ensure their preservation for future generations,” Sini instructs.
”The ‘seita’ stones were places of sacrifice where,
for example, reindeer horn, wood, fish fat, blood or
bones were offered to the spirit. Also money, brass,
arrowheads, tobacco, iron and other valuable materials were worthy offerings.”
teemu kytövuori • illustration: sini siitonen, Avalon
27 | LeviDays
Taatsin seita
Located north of the village of Pokka, about 70
kilometres from Levi, there is a lake called Taatsijärvi. On its northern shore,
the Taatsin seita worship
stone stands preserved in
almost its original shape.
Legend: According to tradition, the old stone
man wore a four-cornered Lappish hat.
Kuivasalmen
kalaseita
The fish ‘seita’ stone is
located on the shore of the Kuivasalmenjärvi lake,
near Korteniemi and Päiviönkenttä. Legend: The
fish ‘seita’ spirit forbade fishermen from uttering
the name of any living creature – if you did so, the
seita would give you no fish at all.
Sirkkajärven seita
Located on the northern shore of the Sirkkajärvi lake, a flat stone stands in the Seitaniemi cape.
There used to be a large pile of horns beneath the
stone. Legend: According to the legend, this ‘seita’ stone was the home of very tough folks. In a fit
of range, an old man had once kicked the stone,
and as a result, he was punished by a nuisance of
a ghost.
Kelontekemäjärvi
Legends: 1. There is a
church bell sunk in the
lake, about one kilometre
off the Pulliniemi cape. 2. Underneath this two-bottomed
lake, there is an underground passage leading all the way to the Norwegian Sea. Shamans used to walk on the lake,
singing and falling into a trance before leaving to
visit people on the neighbouring sea. 3. They say
that the lake used to be inhabited by a prestigious
water sprite and his wife and cattle, as well as
the eldest of the fish. On sunny summer days, the
water sprite might rise to the surface of the lake,
sending great waves to the shores.
LeviDays | 28
Tired of the hustle and bustle, I decided to go to Levi in
search of peace and relaxation. As many others under
constant stress and pressure, I ended up in the gentle
care of the Shaman of Nulituinen.
The Shaman of Nulituinen, Veikko Siitonen, received us with a
warm welcome. He let us bathe in the tender heat of a smoke sauna, and prepared us for the ‘Lappish baptism’, a ceremonial dip in
the spring of youth. The delicious meal finally tamed even the most
doubtful guests. Veikko accompanied the meal by telling magical
stories.
Sitting in the Lappish hut and listening to the shaman’s drum was
a bit weird at first, but soon the sound of the drum made me relaxed
and I felt warmth descend upon me. I began to think that this old
man really knows what he’s doing, since in Nulituinen, my everyday
troubles suddenly turned into the riches of life.
At the end, the shaman instructed me how to treat my stomach
problems. How did he know?
The soul rests
in Nulituinen
New energy from a shaman
Veikko Siitonen received the shaman’s mission from Salkko-Niila in
a dream in 1985. It is generally known that a shaman uses the drum
to fall into a trance, that is, to travel to the world of spirits to bring
back information, healing or strength to an individual or community that has asked for it.
“The shaman’s most important task is to enhance people’s wellbeing. I gain spiritual resources from nature, and my task is to see
to it that visitors to Nulituinen will be relaxed and invigorated with
new energy when they leave. As a shaman, I intermediate between
man and nature. I also have the gift of healing with hands: I remove
pain and bad energy from people,” Veikko explains.
Nulituinen is visited by guests coming from all around the world.
“Nulituinen is an excellent place for people to focus on themselves
and receive new energy amidst nature. There is plenty of space for a
larger group to eat well, bathe in the sauna and simply rest.”
A good night’s sleep is guaranteed in the underground sleeping
chamber. Ninety per cent of the earth chamber is underground, and
there is a stone fireplace, so it is a warm and cosy place.
“A shaman is a wise man, healer, psychologist and guide on the
road of life. I have the gift of making people relax, even those who
come from foreign countries like Kuwait. All you people out there in
the world: welcome to Nulituinen for a unique rejuvenating experience!”
Kati Klaavuniemi • photo: interviewee
29 | LeviDays
Pekka Terävä is a michelin-star chef who has
become famous as a spokesperson for local
foods in Finland. He believes that Finns should
be proud of their heritage and emphasise pure
values in everything they do.
Serving
up
Lapland’s wilds
The best-known examples of Lapland cuisine
are undoubtedly reindeer meat, salmon and
cloudberries. The use of these ingredients extends back hundreds of years. Today, we can
still enjoy these Lapland treats, both in their
traditional form and in many new and inspired ways.
Pekka Terävä has extensive experience as
a respected cook, and he is one of the owners
of the restaurant ‘Olo’ and one of the country’s most esteemed chefs. He is thrilled that
Finnish values, such as naturalness and purity, are nowadays being increasingly associated with food as well.
“Whenever we talk about Lapland à la
carte, it usually involves reindeer. We could,
however, increase the discussion about Lapland’s wild mushrooms, birds and fish, such
as trout, arctic charr, powan and ruff. In other words, the purity of these local foods deserves to be further promoted.”
A culinary journey begins with a restaurant
Terävä has made one heck of a career for
himself. In 1995, he was named Chef of the
Year. Since then, he has worked in top restaurants in several Nordic countries, as the
Product Development Manager for shipping companies, as well as in France, Italy,
and many Finnish gourmet restaurants. The
cornerstones of the Olo Restaurant are local
foods, pure ingredients and careful preparation.
“Restaurants represent absolute competence in the foods industry and that fact
should show even more strongly in their operations – let’s do away with needless timidity! When we invest in the quality of our
ingredients, our supply chain and a local approach, we are able to serve the customer
food that comes nearly directly from nature
itself.”
Customers do not necessarily dare to be
brave and experiment on their own, but they
can easily be tempted to do so. Anyone can
fall in love with Lapland cuisine.
“You can always eat and drink well. Particularly here, among all of these natural treasures in Lapland, pure ingredients and careful
preparation can be combined to create a milieu that is part of the dining experience, and
one that cannot be realised anywhere else.”
Nature lends Lapland its life!
The Lappish culinary culture is more than
just delicious food. It is a part of the Nordic
quality of life and life force.
Lappish gastronomy has taken influences from both the West and the East. The Lapland kitchen thrives and is constructed in
accordance with the seasons and the natu-
ral bounty of local flora and fauna. Alongside
reindeer and salmon, fish from the pure rivers and mountain lakes, game from the forests, and aromatic mushrooms and herbs
have created a solid foundation for Lappish
gastronomy. In addition to the products provided by nature, sheep husbandry is on the
rise in Lapland, and the Lapland almond potato (Puikula) has received the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) stamp from the EU.
Traditionally, foods have been preserved
and prepared by salting, drying, smoking and
cooking over an open fire.
“All of these preparation methods are still
in use. We still take pride in making caviar
from lightly salted vendace roe, or in serving up raw-pickled powan and salmon, dried
and thinly cut meats, and roast reindeer
served cold or as a warm smoked entrée.”
Foods are also prepared by roasting over
an open fire or by grilling over live coals. A
few examples of such dishes include powan
roasted on the spit and salmon cooked over
an open fire or Lappish cheese toasted lightly
over live coals.
“Lappish gastronomy fosters traditions
and honours the use of indigenous ingredients.”
Kati Klaavuniemi • photos: Juha-Pekka Laakio
LeviDays | 30
Whenever we talk about Lapland
à la carte, it usually involves reindeer.
We could, however, increase the discussion
about Lapland’s wild mushrooms, birds
and fish, such as trout, arctic charr,
powan and ruff. In other words,
the purity of these local foods
deserves to be further promoted.
“
31 | LeviDays
Hints for home cooking from some of Levi’s finest chefs
Chefs have a great number of tricks and secrets that your average cooks would love to
know and use. Now, we will let you in on the secrets of some of the best chefs in Levi.
LeviDays | 32
Tiikku Liisu Mäkitalo made her home in Levi
already 30 years ago.
“In 1981, I came to work at the opening
for the Spa Hotel Levitunturi and I haven’t
looked back since. Back then, people still
travelled around the streets of Levi wearing Lappish nutukka boots. Internationalisation has brought new ideas and boosted Levi
to become a year-round travel destination.
Both my work and the natural surroundings
of Lapland have kept me and my now grownup son here in Levi.
In Levi, Tiikku is known as the relaxed hostess of Tiiku’s Tii Pii.
“Our service company has employed me
since 1995. Our objective is to create a fun
genuine Lappish experience for our customers while offering up great Lappish cuisine.”
What about those secrets?
“I never spice up my food, I simply enhance
the natural flavours with the help of wonderful herbs. My dishes are also always made
over a live fire.”
cated by the present Hotel K5 restaurant. The
business carried on a few years like that and,
at our peak, we had three Lapp huts, but finally in 2005, we moved indoors to establish
the Saamen Kammi underground restaurant.
How do you create a culinary delicacy? “I believe that a delicacy is the result of the
right choice of ingredients and the methods
with which they are handled. We primarily use our own association area’s reindeer,
handpicked cloudberries and traditional
preparation methods, such as cooking over
an open fire and smoking. A traditional Lapp
programme, a milieu that is rich with the
magic of Lapland, and a peaceful spot by the
fire to enjoy a delicious meal – these are the
things that give people a truly unique experience.”
Secrets? “My spice rack has nothing more than salt
and pepper. Reindeer meat is good as is, so it
shouldn’t be spoiled with spices.”
Anne Marjomaa and Niiles-Jouni Aikio are
the hosts at the Restaurant Saamen Kammi.
“At the turn of this century, we constructed our first Lapp huts in Levi. Together NiilesJouni and I brewed coffee for customers and
made reindeer dishes in a cloth Lapp hut lo-
Timo Nieminen is responsible, as Kitchen Operations Manager, for overseeing the
kitchen operations of Hotel Hullu Poro.
“Many know me as an excellent rowboat
fisherman while others know me as a pitiful orienteerer. I would hope, however, that
I am most known as a passionate developer of Lappish foods and as a nice guy. Well, it
would also be nice to be known as a fantastic
fly fisherman, but that dream probably won’t
be realised.”
What does Timo think is the forgotten
treasure of Levi?
“I found my treasure when I was at the
peak of Levi Fell in the company of French
chefs. The eldest of the pack took me aside,
spread his arms wide and said, ‘Timo, always
remember that this is your kitchen’ as he indicated all the rivers, forests, marshes and
lakes as far as the eye could see. He continued, a bit more seriously, by saying, ‘Don’t
ever forget that it is all you’ll ever need’. It
was such a sense-awakening experience and
I return to it again and again for inspiration.”
Sami Salonen is the Kitchen Manager for
Levin Ravintolakatu restaurants, and he
landed in Levi after work experiences in both
Spain and Tampere.
“I enjoy preparing food so much that I have
given it everything I have. I want to talk with
people and get hints about the small details
that make their dishes and their dining experience more enjoyable. A little love should go
into every dish – that is the secret!”
Levi delicacies
Tiikku’s Herb Soup
A pinch of herbs of your choice, such
as nettle or garden angelica.
• Lightly sauté the herbs in a pat
of butter (50 g).
• Add flour (2 Tbl).
• Mix and add water (approx. 5 dl) and
cream according to taste. Let it simmer.
• When you pour the soup into the serving
bowl, decorate the top with a slice of
karhurulla (below).
Karhurulla (bear roll)
Pancake:
3 eggs
8 dl of milk
1/2 tsp of salt
4 dl of flour
Filling:
1 jar of canned bear’s meat
1 package of unripened cheese
Mix the eggs, milk, salt and flour together by
whipping them. Spread baking paper on the
bottom of an oven tray and pour the dough
onto the paper. Bake the dough on the centre
shelf of a 200°C oven for about an hour or until the surface is golden brown.
Whip the cheese and the chopped bear’s
meat into a paste and spread it onto the
cooked pancake.
Roll the pancake into a log and cut slices of
approximately one centimetre thick.
Anne’s Fish Soup
100 g of powan
100 g of cold-smoked trout/salmon
100 g of carrots
100 g of swedes
100 g of leek
50 g of onions
Fish stock
Fresh dill
Boil the chopped root vegetables in the
fish stock until they are soft. Add the coldsmoked fish slightly before the fresh fish, so
that the stock will have a chance to take on
the flavour. When both types of fish are fully cooked, taste the soup and add salt if necessary. Add the dill just before the soup is
served.
This soup is great on a cold winter’s day or
as an appetizer. If you want your soup to be
more filling, add potato.
Reindeer Confit á la Timo
(serves 4)
1.2 kg of reindeer fore loin filet
800 g of ground reindeer fat
Salt, pepper
Place the meat and fat into an oven dish. Set
the oven on 130°C for an hour and then drop
the temperature to 60°C and let it stew for 72
hours. Strain the meat from the fat (save the
fat and let it cool). Flavour the meat with salt
and pepper. Then you can shape the meat by,
for example, pressing or rolling.
Heat the cooled meat in the strained cooking fat. Offer the meat with almond potato
puree, root vegetables and a game sauce.
Sami’s Love-infused Chocolate Cake
160 g (2 dl) of sugar
200 g of butter
4 eggs
2 dl of flour
1 tsp of baking powder
2 Tbl of cocoa powder
200 g of baking chocolate
Whip the butter and sugar together. Add the
eggs one at a time while whipping. Combine
all the dry ingredients and add the mixture
to the egg mix. When all the other ingredients are mixed well, add melted chocolate to
the mix. Grease the bottom and sides of your
baking pans. You can also use muffin tins (or a
cake mould, but note the longer baking time
– 25 min). Pour the batter into the pans and
bake in a 200°C oven for about 8 minutes. Allow the cakes to settle for a couple of minutes
before you turn them out of the pans.
kati klaavuniemi • Photos: interviewees,
paul palmer, per lundström
33 | LeviDays
A holiday without snow
is a pretence
LeviDays | 34
Levi Ski Resort Ltd provides comprehensive services
to ensure that holidaymakers enjoy their time with
speed, action, fun – and snow.
The services offered by Levi Ski Resort include
45 pistes on five slopes, 4 ski rental shops, 7
slope restaurants, a clothing store, and several other services.
“All elements must be in place for a ski
resort to be attractive,” emphasises Jouni
Palosaari, Managing Director of Levi Ski
Resort.
The main clientele of Levi Ski Resort are
tourists coming from all corners of the
world, and families are an especially important group. They are served in the best
possible manner with the principle ‘when
kids are enjoying themselves, everybody enjoys themselves’.
There are 26 lifts in the area, and 10 of
them are intended for children. Entry to the
slopes is free for children under 6 wearing a
helmet and accompanied by an adult.
Babysitting is also provided, if needed; for
instance, the Vilpuri Lastenmaa (Kids’ Land)
offers day care services.
If you’re just a beginner, you can improve
your skills at Levi Ski Schools, under the guidance of one of over 80 professionals. Instruction is provided in several languages.
“Levi Ski Resort will continue to invest in
services for families with children. The future
investments are primarily directed at improving the family-friendly Southern Slopes.”
Sliding skis
Levi Ski Resort also maintains the ski tracks,
snowmobile routes, and slopes. You can
check the condition of the tracks on the Levi
website or using your mobile phone. The
snow groomers used for maintaining the ski
tracks are equipped with a position tracker that transmits data on the newly dragged
routes to the network in real time.
Finland is famous for keeping the
slopes and pistes in excellent shape
at all times.
“With our superior technology and competence, our snowmaking capacity is excellent. Everything is automated and computer
controlled. We have about 200 snow cannons, six snow groomers for the slopes, and
additional special machinery for the maintenance of the more challenging pistes, such
as pipes. Finland is famous for keeping the
slopes and pistes in excellent shape at all
times,” Jouni emphasises.
In recent years, Levi Ski Resort has invested 5 million euro in more efficient snowmaking systems. The actual snowmaking is carried out in two months, and natural snow is
used on some slopes. All slopes are ready to
open in week 7.
The skiing folks are served by eight different slope restaurants; there is a place for
every taste and mood. The world famous after-ski restaurant, V’inkkari, is really worth
experiencing: that’s where people party, enjoy the sunshine and fresh outdoor air, and
even dance on tables and sing aloud.
Did you like the gear you rented?
Make them your own!
Levi is easy to access by frequent flights from
Europe and other parts of Finland. To make it
easier for the visitors to get around, Levi
Ski Resort provides free Ski Buses that
shuttle, during the season, between the
largest cottage villages and the slopes.
There is no need for you to drag along
your own skiing gear. At Levi, there are approximately 3,500 different sets of skis,
snowboards and other equipment for
rental – including the latest models.
“Today, the development of equipment is
extremely fast. To ensure an optimal downhill skiing experience for everyone, we only
rent new and modern equipment. There are
lots of different brands and models to choose
from,” Jouni Palosaari explains proudly.
If the snowboard or skis you rented feel
like they were made for you, you can buy
them. The price is adjusted to the degree of
wear and tear.
Levi has a wide range of different slopes
and pistes. Those looking for something extreme can try their skills on a pipe or street, or
why not, on the WC Black Slope. The Southern Slopes offer long, gentle pistes that are
suitable for kids and families.
The slopes are situated on all sides of the
fell and below the tree line, so there is always
a sheltered route available regardless of the
weather.
Kati Klaavuniemi, mari storhammar • photo: paul palmer
35 | LeviDays
south slopes
eastern slopes
northeastern slopes
GONDOLA area
FRONT SLOPES
levi centre
LeviDays | 36
Presenting Levi Fell pistes
Piste Manager Hannu Mäkitalo gives
his own tips for each of the five Levi slope areas.
FRONT SLOPES
– On the front slope, there are challenging
pistes that suit those who have mastered
the basic skills. It is easy to go from here, like
from the other main areas, to the other slope
areas.
Sompa
– A safe training and learning area for young
kids, beginners and first-time downhill skiers. When the temperature is below zero, the
weather may be milder here than in areas
lower in the fell.
NORTHEASTERN SLOPES
5.1
– A fun transition slope with great views.
Looking upon the Rakkavaara holiday home
area below adds a magnificent feeling.
5.3
– A gradual downhill with some steeper sections. The slightly narrower piste suits well to
those who are looking for a challenge. Spring
is at its best here. Great for speed enthusiasts
and anyone who has mastered cutting turns.
6.2
– This piste is suitable for any type of gear.
A broad, illuminated action piste that brings
you down fast. A popular piste with cannoned snow – proper speed is guaranteed for
even the most demanding skiers.
6.4
– An earthmoving area that is popular
among youth who enjoy making their own
jumps. For DIY skiing or snowboarding.
EASTERN SLOPES
7B.2
– A piste for a beginner or someone looking
for a pleasant downhill skiing experience
– suits practically everyone. Up to 50 metres
wide at some places.
7.3
– An excellent piste with cannoned snow; at
its best early in the morning.
8
– A transition route with fabulous fell vistas.
Especially suitable for skiers. Owing to the
flatness of the route, snowboarders need to
kick for speed!
SOUTH SLOPES
8.3
– Relaxed and easygoing downhill. There is
also a steeper spot along the slope.
8.4
– The classic among illuminated pistes with
cannoned snow. Connoisseur’s choice!
9.1
– This piste leads you to start your way down
from a bit higher position, offering a relaxed
feeling. Enjoy the unhurried feeling.
9.2
– A piste for speed and action. For a slightly
more advanced skier.
GONDOLA AREA
G.1
–A spectacular piste with natural snow, suitable for those seeking pleasure in downhill
skiing.
G.2
– The famous World Cup competition slope.
Everyone should first try this slope slowly
and carefully, and only then accelerate to full
speed. This is a great place to test your skills.
13.2
– A snow paradise for every trickster. Remember to wear protective gear!
teemu kytövuori
37 | LeviDays
When the slopes are closed for the night, an army of
snow groomers spreads over the Levi Fell.
Who are the guys operating these machines at night?
A typical working day of a snow groomer operator starts at 5 p.m. and
ends in the early morning hours, once all the slopes are ready for a
new day.
“We work with six machines and four of them are in use every
night. Additionally, our machinery includes two special groomers
for the snowmaking sections,” lists Hannu Mäkitalo, Piste Manager,
Levi Ski Resort Ltd.
If the weather is good, eight hours and six machines are enough
for the job. The operators working the slopes, however, must cope
with nature and different weather conditions.
“In the fells, the weather conditions vary. There can be fog, it can
snow, or it is freezing cold. Also, the job is done in the dark, so this
work calls for a calm and cool-headed personality.”
Snow groomers
• Top speed 18–20 km/h
• Single operator
• Working width 6 m; weight 10 t
• Winch weight 12.5 t
• Consumption 25–30 l/h
• Machine length 10 m and height 3.2 m.
LeviDays | 38
Hard-working specialists
For the past ten years, an almost unchanged group of eight men has
been in charge of maintaining the slopes at Levi. In summertime,
they work, for example, at construction sites or as truck drivers.
“Those in charge of the Snow Park and pipes do downhill skiing
themselves as well but, in general, knowledge of the local environment is the only special skill required. And it has developed over the
years while driving around the slopes.”
The World Cup competition slope calls for particular attention. It
is so steep that special equipment is needed for operating it. Moreover, the task requires solid experience and good nerves.
“We use a winch for this work. Its one-kilometre-long wire is first
attached to an anchor located on the slope side. Secured by the wire,
the groomer is then used to overhaul the steepest and iciest sections.”
Hannu describes the snow groomer operators as calm men who
enjoy their work in solitude. What is it like up there, all alone?
“In the night, the fell has a life of its own. The seasonal variation
opens in a totally different light up there. You can see wild animals
such as hare, fox, moose or even wolverines. Especially in the springtime, when the sun rises, the landscape is full of life,” Hannu describes the atmosphere.
Kati Klaavuniemi • photo: per lundström
marketing and service development of a
company.
“How can we expect to understand others if we don’t know where they come from
or what they are talking about?”
Thomas Müller
– citizen of the world
For German Thomas Müller, the world is his home. His actual home in Germany remains empty for the greater part of the year. Despite this fact, he returns every winter to Finland and Levi to work, staying here for up to five
months.
“I couldn’t even imagine winter without Levi
anymore,” states Thomas.
He first came to Finland by motorcycle in
1986.
“At that time, I never believed that, one
day, I might be speaking this strange language,” he says with a laugh.
Thomas has travelled all around Finland,
but he grew especially enamoured with Levi,
which was already quite the international
place in the early 1990s.
“My friend owned a snowmobile safari
company and since they had foreign guests,
they needed an interpreter. That’s how my
career in Levi got its start.”
Electrical installations and snowmobile safaris
Originally from Frankfurt, Thomas owns his
own electrical installation company. For a
self-employed man, work opportunities are
available in many countries throughout the
world.
“I have a licence to do electrical installations in England as well, and I have worked
as an electrician for Finnish companies,” recalls Thomas, who has also worked in the
summertime in Helsinki.
Thomas considers his work with tourists in
Levi to be more than just a job.
“I have customers who have repeatedly returned for snowmobile safaris since 1995, the
year that I started my seasonal work in Levi.
Year after year, customers arrive from England, the United States, Germany and Spain.”
“Many of the customers have become my
friends, and I have even visited them in their
own home countries.”
Thomas believes that personal contacts
and visits are the best ways to handle the
An interpreter of language and culture
Thomas serves as an interpreter for many
residents of Levi who regularly come into
contact with foreigners. In addition to his native language of German, he also speaks English, Spanish and Finnish.
“I studied Finnish on my own, without the
help of language courses or classes. When I
was finally able to communicate with Finns
using their own language, my whole world
changed.”
Thomas also advises his foreign friends on
how to understand Finns.
“My first guiding principle is always to remind them that although a Finn is quiet, it
doesn’t mean he or she is acting impolite or
angry. The biggest reason for his or her silence
is generally shyness. Once foreign guests
have gotten beyond the so-called observation phase, a new world awaits them. Here,
friends are true friends, and the verbal knot
will loosen once the friendship develops.”
The best winter
As a man of the world, Thomas could spend
his winters at any of the Central European
ski destinations, but for twenty years now, he
has always returned to Levi.
“There is a proper winter here and I love
winter. The winters in Central Europe have
changed, and they don’t have nearly as many
or as diverse a range of winter sport possibilities as one finds in Levi.”
When spring approaches and the international seasonal help and customers begin to
disappear, Thomas also heads south. This is
one fifty-year-old man who lives life to the
fullest.
“I want to enjoy my life now and not wait
until retirement.”
Presumably, when he reaches retirement
age, he will simply continue to travel all over
the world. “Life would be pretty dull without new
challenges and experiences,” Thomas explains as he plans his next departure, this
time to Austria.
Outi Hannuksela
Photos: The personal albums of Thomas Müller
39 | LeviDays
WR
E
N TE !
D
A
L
W OR
W
FUN IS
INCLUDED
SPA HOTEL LEVITUNTURI HOLDS
A SECRET WITHIN THAT MANY
ALREADY KNOW
Spa Hotel Levitunturi is actually much more
than just a hotel: it is an entire destination
with a variety of activities for every day of
your holiday. Residents can splash about
in the Spa Water World, keep fit in the gym,
play with the children in the Children’s
Playhouse or dance in the evening to a live
band on every night of the year. All this
LeviDays | 40unforgettable fun is included in the price.
ROOM
SUITED
TO YOUR
NEEDS
At the Spa Hotel Levitunturi, you can
choose a room according to your needs.
Our family rooms provide a comfortable
and efficient solution for families with
small children and include an alcove
and a small kitchen. In our newest hotel
building you will find luxurious superior
rooms for two and junior suites with a
separate bedroom and sauna. These new
rooms also have balconies and inside
access directly to the spa.
WONDERFUL WATER EXPERIENCE
Lapland’s biggest and most beautiful spa brings all the northern wonders to you as part
of a fantastic spa experience. The brand new Water World has 17 indoor and outdoor
pools of various sizes. In addition to the three outdoor pools there are saunas, a water
slide, an aqua jogging pool and a 20 meter pool that’s great for swimming laps or other
water exercise.You can pamper yourself in all different kinds of hot and cool pools as
well as water massages in Water World. The best experience, however, is in the outdoor
pools, where you can relax under the Lappish sky.
NEW CHILDREN’S
PLAYHOUSE
The whole family can enjoy the lower level of the spa.
The new and improved Children’s Playhouse is a
favourite spot for children of all ages and the older
kids can enjoy the bowling alley next to it.
RESTAURANT WORLD
The Lappish-style restaurant provides very popular
lunch and dinner buffet tables.
There are á la carte delicacies and pizzas are available
daily until midnight. You can also enjoy the dance
floor where you will experience couples dancing to
traditional Finnish dance music or downstairs at the
Joiku Karaoke & Bar you can watch the singers enjoying
themselves or of course you can join in the fun.
You can also get delicious hamburgers, pizzas and
salads for the Spa Bistro in the new spa.
FITNESS & WELLNESS
At Spa Hotel Levitunturi your vacation can be much
more than just relaxing and hanging around. We offer
high-quality alternatives for training and there are
dozens of different sports you can try. After all the
exercise, our wellness experts are available to
pamper you.
LEVI SPA BOWLING
The lower level of the spa has an 8-lane bowling alley
and Niila Sport Bar.
CONFERENCE AND
INCENTIVE TRAVELLER’S
DESTINATION
In this easy going environment, the flexibility enables
you to meet your objectives with your clients, partners
or staff and with full access to the spa hotel’s services,
the time between meetings will be quality time for all.
Your goal is our goal.
LEVINTIE 1590
99130 SIRKKA
TEL. +358 16 646 301
hotel@hotellilevitunturi.fi
www.hotellilevitunturi.fi
41 | LeviDays
His name is Pasi Koutaniemi: He lives in the village of Sirkka, currently owns his 17th snowmobile
and has been interested in the sport of snowmobiling for 30 years. Anyone planning their own
snowmobile outing would be wise to take some pointers from this experienced snowmobiler.
Pasi, who lives with his family next door to the Spa Hotel Levitunturi, has covered nearly 100,000 kilometres through his many years of
snowmobiling. Born and bred in Kittilä, he got his first snowmobile
at the tender age of 10.
“It was a black Ski-Doo Elan 250, model 1980. It was a really lightweight machine with a narrow belt,” Pasi recollects.
He actually still has a similar one in his possession, but the model is one year younger. It was purchased seven years ago and not just
for nostalgic reasons.
“There is an association named ElanWeljet (Elan Brothers) in Kittilä. In order to be a member of the association, you have to own a
genuine Elan and get the recommendation of an elder Elan brother.
The elder bears a responsibility for the younger member until the trial period is over.”
“In Kittilä, there was a huge Elan boom at one point and everyone
just had to have one. People went as far as Sweden and Norway for
certain models,” Pasi states with a laugh.
Exploring far and wide
A member of the Kittilä Motor Club, Pasi covers approximately 3,000
kilometres a season on his snowmobile. He actually has a hard time
remembering the period before he took up this hobby.
“First of all, this is an integral part of the upbringing here. The surroundings in Levi truly call out to snowmobilers, as the amount of
peace and limitless freedom is tremendous. The snowmobile enables one to move amidst nature in a totally different way,” he explains.
When a snowmobile enthusiast is faced with an endless network
of local trails, the way he or she is feeling often dictates the choice of
trail. If the plan for the day is to take a slightly longer journey, all one
has to do is turn the snowmobile skis toward Kumputunturi Fell.
“It is a magnificent place to go in good weather, since the view
from the top is amazing.”
For an even longer outing, Pasi suggests the Levi-Pokka-PuljuTepasto-Levi route. It makes for a great one-day excursion.
For a totally relaxing ride, try cruising around on the local trails
that criss-cross throughout the Levintunturi area. When it’s time for
a break, one might stop at, for example, Sammun Tupa or Lapinkylä
on the south side of the Fell or Luvattumaa on the northern side. Toward the top of the Fell, there is also Näköalaravintola Tuikku, a restaurant with a spectacular vista view.
If you are looking for an easy and flat snowmobile tour, you would
be wise to head for the Pöntsö route.
LeviDays | 42
“Along the route, you can always stop and turn off your snowmobile
at one of the break sites and, perhaps, have a hot cup of coffee and
a doughnut.”
Breaks are important for beginners
Those who have rarely had the opportunity to ride a snowmobile often get such a taste for the sport that once they get on, they never
want to get off.
“Test it out, get the feel and only drive short distances at a time. On
the first day, it is generally not wise to take off on any extensive journeys. Otherwise, you will find that your thighs will be really sore the
next day.”
“It is particularly challenging to come down stairs,” Pasi states
from experience.
Pasi Koutaniemi’s longer excursions take him all the way to Lake
Kilpisjärvi in the very northern reaches of Finland or Riksgränsen Ski
Resort in Sweden. More often though, his snowmobile is turned in
the direction of Lainio, about 50 kilometres from Levi, to the cottage
of the parents of Pasi’s co-habiting partner.
“You can, of course, also get the feel for speed on the snowmobile
safaris.”
Keeping it sensible in town
Pasi sometimes becomes annoyed with people who thoughtlessly
speed through the village on their snowmobiles. The speed limit in
and around the village is 30 km/hour.
“Anyone driving recklessly does a disservice and gives a bad name
to the entire sport. It is extremely important to drive slowly around
pedestrians and skiers,” Pasi stresses.
Speaking from the perspective of a local, Pasi would give a grade
of nine to the overall snowmobiling culture in Levi. The routes are
all well maintained and the process to develop them is ongoing. For
those looking to test their threshold for speed will even have their
own test track eventually.
“There are also enough refuelling stations that it is easy and relaxing to explore the landscape between stations.”
As a simple safety tip, this experienced snowmobiler shares his
advice:
“If you are planning a longer trip, it is always safer and more fun to
travel in a group. Or if you are insecure, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from a local guide.”
teemu kytövuori, Kati Klaavuniemi • photo: pauli hänninen
43 | LeviDays
Supervision
breeds results
The active supervision of the snowmobiling activities, as carried out by
the local police, is having its effect
on the Levi area.
The police are actively monitoring the area
of Levi to ensure safety. As a result of their efforts, the number of drunk drivers along the
routes, for example, has dropped dramatically.
“I believe that the information alone that
there has been an increase in supervision has
had a profound effect. Furthermore, nearly
all of the safari and snowmobile rental companies test their drivers for alcohol before
renting the snowmobile, which is a huge service to everyone involved,” states Police Inspector Veijo Anunti from Kittilä.
The police department invests a great deal
in varied forms of snowmobile supervision.
In addition to officers patrolling the terrain
by snowmobile, there are also support patrols cruising the roadways. All supervision
the police supervises snowmobile riders throughout whole lapland
and inspections are carried out through collaboration with co-operative authorities.
The authorities regularly review Levi‘s
safety issues together with local actors. Currently, a joint project is underway to build a
practice track in Levi.
“The practice track will enable inexperienced drivers, in particular, to gain invaluable experience and to become comfortable
with the feel of the snowmobile before going
out into the wilds on their own.”
Trust the
professionals
The safest way for a rider with little or no
experience to get acquainted with the
sport is by turning to one of the companies providing recreational services in
the area. There is a wide range of companies in the Levi area that offer snowmobile services:
www.levi.fi/en/home.html
Support Levi’s
snowmobile network
Speed limits for snowmobiling • In the village centre and high-risk
locations 30 km/h
• When transporting passengers
(e.g. in a sled) 40 km/h • On the trails and in the terrain
60 km/h • On frozen waterways 80 km/h Since the end of the 1990s, private snowmobilers have had the chance to purchase Levi snowmobiling stickers. The
proceeds from these snowmobiling stickers is used to ensure the maintenance and
safety of the area’s many snowmobiling
routes. The sticker can be purchased from
the snowmobile rental shops and Levi
Tourist Information.
• Sticker valid for winter season: €50
• Sticker valid for one week: €20
teemu kytövuori, Kati Klaavuniemi
• photo: markku hotti
LeviDays | 44
ress appropriately
and d
Enjoy your holiday
45 | LeviDays
Tanja Poutiainen in Levi wearing her own collection. The multifuncional DrymaxX jacket from Tanja Poutiainen collection for the most demanding female skiers that appreciate
quality and functionality. Jacket: Poutiainen 2011, pants: Poutiainen 2011. Mid layer jacket: Poutiainen Layer. Base layer: Mid Long Lady shirt and pants. Gloves: Poutiainen gloves.
Beanie: Tina beanie.
With proper layered clothing, you
create thermal insulation between
garments with layers of air that
both insulate and ventilate. This
makes exercising in different weather conditions comfortable. Here are
some tips from Halti Ltd.
Base layer
The purpose of the base layer is to keep the
skin dry and warm. Properly designed undergarments made of proper materials transfer
moisture from the surface of the skin to out-
LeviDays | 46
er layers of clothing and keep the dry feel to
them even when moist.
Suitable base layers are e.g. Arae shirt and
pants (women) and Mid Long shirt and pants
(men).
Adjust with Mid Layers
The thermal insulation of the clothing is controlled with the mid layer. Its most important task is to give warmth but it also has to
insulate the body from the cold and moisture
from outside.
Fleece, micro fleece and Arcty Stretch
products are most suitable as mid layers.
Finish the Protection with Shell Layer
The purpose of the shell layer is to block
wind and water. Suitable shell layer clothes
are made from materials that tolerate both
weather and wear, e.g. DrymaxX materials.
The shell clothing has to be loose-fitting so
that enough base and mid layer clothes can
be added depending on need and activity,
without hindering mobility.
Functional shell clothes are designed also
in a fashion that allows ventilation to be adjusted according to temperature with help of
mechanical vents.
When you dress appropriately, you ensure that you get the most out of your holiday! Tanja Pouti-
ainen shares her clothing tips:
Downhill skiing
• Put on a softshell jacket over your underlayer. Then put on your winter
coat – now you will stay warm no
matter what the weather.
• Carry a small backpack that won’t
impede your movement.
• Wear a helmet. In addition to ensuring
your safety, it will keep your head warm er than in a winter hat when you are
downhill skiing.
• Choose a ski jacket that has many
pockets.
Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or walking
• Same rules as for downhill skiing, but
you should forget about using the heavy
coat and trade the helmet for a wool
winter hat.
• Earbuds and good music.
Mountain biking
• Cycling pants, so that there are no
irritating trouser legs to get in the way.
• Cycling shirt with rear pockets.
Winter down jacket: Opps Down (stylish down jacket for outdoor activities). Mid layer jacket: Lieka jacket of Arcty Stretch material.
Base layer: Volantis shirt and pants (Seamless Actice Dry undergarment). Gloves: Palander gloves.
Layered clothing is the most
important thing also when
High quality equipment and suitable clothing
skiing. On top of base layer,
dress mid layer clothing
make winter activities more enjoyable.
that keeps you warm and
The first criteria when choosing good skiing
transfers moisture to the outer layer.
gear depends on your own level of activity.
For tougher activity, choose light and thin,
Cover the Top
for calmer ones thick and warm. It’s wise to
The most important thing with outer gargive special attention to under garments. If
ments is that they protect you from wind and
the base layer doesn’t breathe and transfer
cold. Breathing materials guarantee that the
moisture, cold and unpleasant feeling is sure
moisture from lower layers can be ventilated
to hit you.
out. A beanie covering the ears and resisting
wind as well as warm gloves covering the
wrists also belong to a skier’s outfit.
When body temperature drops the body
starts to protect its most vital parts that are
the inner organs and the head. At the same
time the genial regulation system of a human being leaves the less vital parts, e.g.
toes with less blood circulation. Surprisingly
big part of the body heat is lost through the
head, 40–50 per cent – in freezing temperatures as much as 75 per cent. As the old saying goes, if you feet feel cold, put your beanie
on.
teemu kytövuori, halti • photos: halti
47 | LeviDays
Soft, silent snowflakes descend in a glittering path to the ground. The quiet,
flickering lights of candles create a warm, yuletide atmosphere. Christmas
tables are decorated with the joyful faces of those awaiting the start of the
feast. Christmas sets our hearts aglow.
The Northern lights add a touch of festive
colour to an otherwise pure white landscape.
The freshly settled snow and twinkling stars
shine in a way that makes the forest appear
to be overlaid with diamonds. The peace is
broken when the freezing temperatures nip
at the tips of the dense spruce groves. Christmas is a magical time – especially in Finland.
Christmas is a time of rest and celebration. Time to relax, enjoy and rejoice – each in
his or her own way. Nature puts on her best
face for Christmas, and the forests, with their
host of animals, seem also to be celebrating. The whole holiday with its white snowdrifts, Christmas delicacies, reindeer, and
warm, genuine atmosphere is a time when
children serve as the privileged experts. The
Christmas tradition is at its finest in Finnish
Lapland, since that is the true home of Santa Claus and his elves and reindeer. Have you
ever met him face-to-face?
Christmas is a festive time for all
We can prove beyond a doubt that Santa Claus lives in Lapland. His workshop and
home, however, are cleverly disguised. No
one quite knows for sure where his true
home is located. We do know, however, that
he really enjoys visiting Levi, particularly
around Christmas time. How on earth can
Santa Claus remember the names and wishes of all of the children in the world? Easily,
because he is Santa Claus!
Santa knows who’s been naughty and
nice. The worldwide network of elves is busy
year round trying to monitor all children and
report directly back to Santa on whether they
are being naughty or nice. If, by any chance,
you happen to be afraid of Santa Claus, we
think you just might be a tad foolish. This
great man, whose true age has yet to be revealed, appears all in red and is generally the
most popular guest of the Christmas season.
At the end of the day though, it’s the children
that count, because without them, there
would be no Christmas for Santa Claus either. Christmas is truly a celebration for and
about children and families.
Kati Klaavuniemi • photo: paul palmer
LeviDays | 48
for Christmas time
Christmas Eve 24th Dec
Immelkartano / Restaurant Riihi
Christmas Eve´s dinner
at 6 pm
Green salad
Wild mushroom salad
Beetroot salad
Red caviar, onion & sour cream
Salted salmon
Herring á la Russe
Country style paté
Cold game meats
Rowanberry jam
Lappish bread
***
Ham gratinated with honey
Apple sauce
Carrot casserole
Swede casserole
Red onion compote
***
Omelette Surprise
Coffee/ Tea
Christmas Day 25th Dec
Hotel Levi Panorama,
Restaurant Okta
Christmas Festival Dinner
Hullu Poro, Kammi feast
Kammin Poropeijaiset menu
Smoked whitebait
Whitebait pâté in pastry crust
Smoked salmon terrine
Warm smoked salmon
Marinated whitefish
Roe jelly
Crayfish terrine
Baltic herring in tomato sauce
Mustard herring
Russian herring
Roast beef
Smoked reindeer
Wild boar pâté in pastry crust
Smoked duck breast
Orange marinated turkey breast
Spring chicken galantine
Green salad
Herring and beetroot salad
Wild mushrooms salad, Porcino jelly
Carrot - balck salsify terrine
Salmon roasted on open fire,
vermouth sauce
Lutfisk, Béchamel sauce
Christmas ham, plums, peas
Potatoes, vegetables
Christmas sausage and mustard
Sweetened potato gratin
Carrot casserole, Rutabaga casserole
Finnish clear whitefish soup
at 4 pm & 8 pm
at 6 pm
***
Traditional Lappish delicacies
prepared by the open fire:
Reindeer sausages
Reindeer roast smoked in tepee
Sautéed reindeer
Pork chops
Flamed salmon
Mash and baked potatoes.
On the side:
Salad of forest mushrooms
Lingonberries
Kammi’s pickled cucumber
***
Pancakes with selected jams
and whipped cream
49 | LeviDays
Bookings and further information : Levi Central Booking Office, t. +358 16 639 3300
meets the Kalevala
The Winterland Theme Park is an unbelievably realistic
fantasy world enhanced with incredible effects.
The park brings to life a magical world of Finnish mythology and
folk traditions from Santa Claus to the legendary Sampo and
Väinämöinen! All this and more is guaranteed once you step into
the Winterland located next to the eastern slopes of Levi.
“Feedback has been very positive. Everyone who has visited the
park has been captivated and gained a childlike enthusiasm in the
course of the experience,” proudly states Ville Selmgren, Managing
Director of Winterpark Levi Oy.
Visitors can enter the theme park either individually or in a group,
and they are shown around by either a gnome or an elf. The theme
park is an audiovisual adventure and something that you simply
must experience first-hand.
“We integrate light, sound and modern technology to create a
fantasy based on Northern mythology; in other words, to create a
place where a wintry wonderland comes face-to-face with the epic
tales of the Kalevala and Lord of the Rings,” Ville sums up.
The Nicholas North movie serves as global advertising
The theme park extends over an area of two hectares and is being
improved from season to season to become even more spectacular.
In all its final glory, Winterland Levi is expected to be one of the area’s most exciting attractions.
“The theme park will be an amazing experience for visitors. In the
future, the park will allow for visitors to more independently wander through the area and take their time enjoying the magical experiences that await.”
The park also offers an inspiring environment for professionals
working in creative industries. A famous Finnish rock band has already filmed one of their music videos in Winterland.
An even greater international advertisement for the park is the
film, Nicholas North, which is being directed by the music video
guru Antti J. Jokinen and is set to premiere in December 2012. In addition to the landscapes of Winterland Levi, the Hollywood actress
Julianne Moore can be spotted in the film.
“In the autumn, prior to the premiere of the film, we will also
share more about the future Nicholas North book trilogy,” tells Ville.
teemu kytövuori • illustrations: estar studios
LeviDays | 50
A taste of the park‘s mythical world
The journey starts with a short walk
up a path bordered by snow and
cauldrons of fire. The sounds of our
first destination grow nearer and
louder…
1. Mythological Village
This village is strongly influenced by the
Finnish epic tale, the Kalevala. In the centre
of this village is a lively marketplace. The
houses of the village are built in an ancient
fantastical style and are as realistic as possible, up to the smallest detail. 2. Sampo
Our journey continues on to the next stop,
also from the Kalevala. Here we see the
magic of the famous Sampo. This magical
machine can turn stones into gold and accomplish many other amazing feats. 3. Santa’s Fountain of Eternal Youth
This will be an enormous wall of ice rising
from a pond. One of the Santa’s best kept
secrets is unveiled here.
4. Santa’s House
This site will be located high above the rest
of the area, so that Santa Clause can look
down upon his “kingdom”. The final structure will be awesome!
5. The Homes of the Elves
Built three metres off the ground, these
houses will get your imagination going. You
can peek into the houses to see how Santa’s
little helpers live.
6. Elf Village
The biggest village in the area! Here you
can find Santa’s toy factory, Santa’s printing
press, a restaurant and a Christmas tree like
you’ve never seen before! Top it all off with a
warm and delicious traditional meal.
Tickets available from the gate or the Levi
Central Booking Office and Tourist Information.
Further information: Winterland.fi
51 | LeviDays
Elaborately sculptured snow and ice
constructions decorate the wintry
landscape. In and around Levi, there
are at least three areas with magnificent snow and ice constructions
that add that extra magic to your
winter experience and give you the
change to try out various activities.
Pure white magic
Snow Village, also known as the Lainio Snow
Village, is a true winter wonder world.
LeviDays | 52
Located beside the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, Snow Village is accessible by a
forest road. Yet, it is surrounded by the silence of the snow-coated nature of the fells.
“Thanks to the easy access, we classify
Snow Village as a civilized wilderness destination. The village is built amidst the wilderness, so even larger parties can come and
enjoy the peace and quiet here,” says Rami
Kurtakko, the entrepreneur running Snow
Village.
The village extends over an area of about
two hectares and includes fantastic structures that glimmer and sparkle long into the
spring.
“The snow castle covers an area of approximately 1.5 hectares. Inside the castle, there is,
for instance, an ice restaurant that seats 100
guests. Also, there is a snow chapel, which is
created by using a round igloo form with a diameter of 10 metres and height of 8 metres.”
The altar table is sculptured of ice, as are
the seats for the congregation. The atmosphere is further enhanced by ice artwork and
spectacular illumination.
A snow hotel with suites and double rooms
is part of the snow castle.
Snow Village (Lainio Snow Village)
Where? About 35 km from Levi
What materials are needed? 25,000 m³ of snow, approx. 450–500 m³ of ice
Reasons to visit: Snow castle, snow
chapel, snow hotel, ice restaurant, ice bar, log restaurant, activities, slide
and Snow Tube chute. Diverse accommodation options in cabins.
Open: Until 15 April (weather permitting).
Snowvillage.fi
53 | LeviDays
Icium isn’t far away
The nearest wonder world of ice is Icium, the ice sculpture park located in the Levi Gondola area.
After the structures and installations of the World Cup competition are dismantled, the Icium ice world starts taking shape in its
usual location. Managing Director Markku Kelloniemi, FutuVision
Technologies Ltd, remembers the attention drawn by the massive
construction work in the first season.
“It really turned the drivers’ heads as they passed our site where
different plywood forms were being filled with masses of snow by
large machines.”
Created by professionals, the ice artwork is elaborately finished
and spectacular.
“I remember the dispatch note listing, for example, one thousand
kilos of LED lights,” Markku laughs.
The sensational art sculptures are made in co-operation with artists from the town of Harbin, China, also known as the Ice Town.
Harbin is famous for its legendary Ice and Snow Festivals, which
have been arranged annually for 25 years.
“With slides and a labyrinth, Icium is also an excellent spot for activities,” Markku points out.
“The majority of the couples come from Britain, but we have even
had a Chinese wedding here. Finnish weddings are arranged at all
times of the year, but foreign couples get married here only in wintertime.”
“Our specialty is a suite where you can spend the night in a
warmed bed with luxurious satin bed linen,” Lea continues.
Luvattumaa
Where? 7 km north of the village of Sirkka
What materials are needed? Masses of snow, 350–450 m³
of crystal clear ice from the Ounasjoki River.
Reasons to visit: Snow castle, snow hotel, snow chapel,
ice sauna, ice restaurant, catering for groups in the Lapp hut
restaurant, riverside spa & saunas, the original “monotanssit”
(ski boot dance)
Open: Until 15 April (weather permitting).
Luvattumaa.fi
teemu kytövuori • photos: paul palmer
Icium
Where? Levi Gondola parking area.
What materials are needed? Approx. 13,000 m³ of snow,
700 m³ of ice from the Ounasjoki River, 1,000 kg LED lights.
Reasons to visit: Snow and ice artwork (some 40 pieces) by
world-class snow and ice sculptors. Souvenir shop.
Open: Until April (weather permitting).
Icium.fi
Romantic wonderland
Run by Lea and Pekka Jussila, the legendary Luvattumaa (‘Promised
land’) is a one-hectare area with a milieu of beautiful snow and ice
constructions.
The Luvattumaa area is known for its original “monotanssit”
where you dance with your ski boots on. A variety of new activities
were introduced during the 2010–2011 season. For example, Levi Ice
Gallery Bar & Hotel offers accommodation, in a suite, if you wish.
There is also a snow chapel in the area. The chapel and restaurant
seat about 150 people.
“Our Castle Cocktails are specially arranged for business groups.
The guests are first introduced to the ice sculptures on a guided tour.
Then, after enjoying some appetizers, the group goes to our Lapp hut
restaurant to enjoy the main course and entertainment,” Lea explains.
Luvattumaa is the promised land for romantics, and a popular
venue for weddings. In the snow chapel, “I do” is in most cases uttered in languages other than Finnish.
LeviDays | 54
Immelmökit
cabins
28 log cabins
Idyllic location, only a short walk
to the resort centre.
Immelmökit Cabins
Kätkänrannantie 3, FI-99130 Sirkka/Levi | Tel. +358 400 940163
immelmokit@levi.fi | www.levi.fi/immelmokit
Cosy apartments in the centre of Levi
with family-friendly prices!
Don't hesitate to contact us
to get an offer!
Experience the
magic of Lapland
Spend the night beneath the stars in a glass roofed igloo
or a luxuriously furnished kammi built into the ground.
And complement this unforgettable experience in a
hot tub gazing out at the Fell landscape.
Levilehto Apartments
Levintie 1625 - 99130 Levi
tel. +358 403 120 200
levilehto@levi.fi
Read more at: www.leviniglut.fi
T. +358 44 056 6334 | leviniglut@levi.fi
w w w. l e v i l e h t o . f i
Welcome to a supermarket that’s better than the rest!
y!
ry da
e
v
e
d
n
u
o
r
Open year-
Herkkutori includes selection of fresh fish and meat
delicacies, salads, warm grilled producs and
variety of gourmet-cheeses.
Wide range of groceries, Lapland’s own delicacies and
large variety of special goods. We have also plenty of toys,
household accessories, kitchenware
and small home appliances.
Holiday apartments available for hire in the
same ground (provided via Levi Tourist Information) and
we also haven a chemist!
Sekatavarakauppa is unique gift shop with wide and lovely range of decorative items,
SEKATAVARAKAUPPA souvenirs and gift items. Whether you’re looking for genuine Lappish reindeer hide, beutiful
GIFT SHOP
piece of jewellery of perhaps a digital camera - you’ll find it from Sekatavarakauppa.
Open 10(12) am. - 6 pm.
Welcome!
LeviMarket
OPEN mon-sat 8(9) am.-9 pm. sun 9(10) am.-9 pm.
info@levimarket.fi
55 | LeviDays
Get the perfect location
for your holiday at Levin Alppitalot
Gorgeous views to Front pistes right from
most of the holiday apartments of Alppitalo
and Alppitähti.They are built for comfort, from
the needs of two people to easy accommodation of 15 people. The reception room areas
of our biggest apartments are also suitable for
meetings.
The apartments are located right next to
the Restaurant Street, front slopes as well as
trekking and skiing routes are just on the other
side of the road - as well as all happenings at
Levi. Our staff warmly welcomes you to enjoy
your stay with us.
LeviDays | 56
T. +358 20 7866 433 | myynti@levinalppitalot.fi | Levinalppitalot.fi
Levi Spirit villas are a rare combination of Arctic nature and luxury. They offer comforts you won't find elsewhere. Modern
design, top-quality natural materials and exquisite amenities provide a pleasant and impressive décor. Our 24/7 Service Office
will be happy to assist you before you arrive and during your stay and will know your wishes when you come back next time.
Reservations:
tel. +358 (0)600 550 120 or vanajanlinna@vanajanlinna.fi
24/7 Service Office:
tel. +358 (0)600 550 124 or service@levispirit.fi
www.levispirit.fi
www.vanajanlinnagroup.fi
LEVI SPIRIT VILLAS - ARCTIC LUXURY
Four high-standard restaurants form our Restaurant Street facing the front piste at the Levi ski resort. The Bistro, Cantina,
Tango and Tsekki together with Gastro Catering offer visitors to Lapland unique experiences, each in its own way. Continental
delicacies, TexMex favourites, traditional steaks and pizzas - they're all on the menu.
www.vanajanlinnagroup.fi
ENJOY GREAT FOOD IN THE HEART OF LEVI
57 | LeviDays
Sales service tel. +358 (0)600 550 121 | myynti@ravintolakatu.fi | www.ravintolakatu.fi
Granpa wakes up and fishes his teeth from the water glass. Granma puts
her wig on and pats powder on her wrinkles. The afternoon dance is calling! This is how the story usually goes, at least, in the lyrics of the Eläkeläiset band.
The Eläkeläiset (literally ‘Pensioners’) are a
hugely popular dance music band of five
charming rascals from Northern Karelia.
They basically play all types of music with
the ‘humppa’ rhythm and sound, and spice
up their performance with dashing humour.
“We are a bunch of country bumpkins who
received a reckless sense of humour along
with our mothers’ milk,” explains Onni Varis,
the organist and vocalist of the band, as well
as its musical and intellectual leader.
The band is inspired by typical Finnish two-beat dance rhythms, known as the
‘humppa’ and ‘jenkka’, and by stories about
the everyday lives of pensioners, combined
with the band members’ crazy clothes and
unruly behaviour. Their lyrics crystallise the
very core of Finnish folklore in a humoristic
way.
LeviDays | 58
Most of the lyrics revolve around the same
theme, that is, the humppa.
“The same text is repeated some 200
times. We once started counting how many
of our songs tell people to “dance the humppa” or simply “let’s humppa”. Quite many do!
the less lyrics
there are,
the easier it is
for us to remember
the words.
But, the less lyrics there are, the easier it is for
us to remember the words.”
What might be the secret behind the popularity of the humppa?
“If I knew the answer, I would bottle and
sell it! Somehow we understand that Finns
love the humppa, but we cannot figure out
why it’s so popular also in Germany, Holland and Russia. In St. Petersburg, we presented our ‘senior citizen’ version of one of
Pelle Miljoona’s punk hits from 1980 and the
crowd jumped up and down just like 30 years
ago,” says Onni.
From a joke to huge popularity
The Eläkeläiset band originates from a sidestep project of a group of musicians, initially
meant to be a joke, but soon it became more
popular than anyone could have guessed.
International fan clubs
The band’s style is relaxed and easy-going. The instruments
are second hand, and the gig bus is not always systematically loaded for the road.
“We keep up a proper price-quality-ratio. Once at a festival in Germany, we tried to fix our electric organ with duct
tape and went around borrowing batteries and wires. That
time, the arrangers started suggesting that we should invest
a little bit more in our gear,” Onni laughs.
The Eläkeläiset band is followed by several active fan
groups, the largest in Finland is the group known as “Humpparetkut”.
“They are a group of seriously great-looking ladies who
make themselves ugly by wearing old women’s spectacles,
their hair in a bun and sloppy make-up. In Germany, the
most active fan group are the Humppa Jugend, and in Poland the Polish Humppa Team.”
Onni has many times visited Levi with, among others, a
group of Citroën 2CV enthusiasts.
“I love Levi. We even had a gig at Hullu Poro Areena, but
I have a feeling the audience hated us. With the warm-up
band, it was groovy, but then we took the stage and spoiled
the same songs. Nothing to boast of, I guess,” Onni says with
a short laugh.
Mari Storhammar • Photo: eläkeläiset
So much more than
just a bed for the night
New!
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Levi
Under the pressure from the audience, the ensemble started touring Finland in the early 1990’s. Their music suits both
young and old, and it works equally well at dance pavilions
and larger festivals.
The ensemble used to perform a widely varying range of
sets and themes. Their shows covered, for example, a set of
prison songs, lousy circus tricks with a cardboard stage setting, and they have even presented Black Sabbath on stage
– wearing brown capes with LED goggles and flypapers as
props. The band, Eläkeläiset, is a direct continuation of this
foolishness.
In 1994, Eläkeläiset made their first humppa record. A German fellow living in Finland took it with him to Germany
where it was played at a party for three days and nights in
row. Soon after that, a German record company contacted
them and invited the band to a tour in Germany.
“At first, we had gigs for some 10–20 people. Year after
year, the gigs became bigger and bigger, and suddenly we
had audiences of 300. We thought we were at the top of our
career. Surprisingly, our fame grew further, and for example, in Hamburg we performed for an audience of 800, and in
Berlin a hall for 1,000 people was sold out. And, yes, we perform at festivals where the crowds can total thousands of
people.”
The popularity of Eläkeläiset is guaranteed, and they have
35–50 gigs per year. Every year, the band heads out to Germany, where they have a steadfast host of fans.
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YLLÄS • SAARISELKÄ • LEVI • OLOS • ROVANIEMI • PALLAS • KILPISJÄRVI • HETTA • LUOSTO
59 | LeviDays
In Levi, Samu Haber, singer-guitarist for Sunrise Avenue, a Finnish band that has gained great popularity throughout Europe, experienced a critical moment in terms of his career.
LeviDays | 60
What happened?
”When I was young, I worked for Skimbaaja
magazine. We were in Levi and I saw Bon Jovi’s music video for the song ‘Bed of Roses’
for the first time. That’s when I decided that I
didn’t want to do anything else in my life except for music. So in a way, Levi is partly responsible for what the band is today (smile).”
What did you do the last time you visited
Levi?
”I was just relaxing and enjoying my holiday.
I spent time snowboarding and snowmobiling. Everyone in our band went downhill skiing. I also won our band’s bowling tournament with a total score of 258. I hung up the
scorecard on the wall for awhile.”
What kind of feeling were you left with after your last gig in the Levi Fell village?
”Levi has a slightly different audience than
your average club crowd. Not everyone has
necessarily come here only to see us. It is,
however, an added bonus to get the opportunity to showcase your music to new listeners.”
On your new album, you sing about the
Hollywood Hills; do you think that someday your band might write a song about
the Levi Fell?
”Why not? Inspiration is an interesting thing.
It hits when it hits… just like the spring flu. ”
Samu Haber’s cutting edge performance from the slopes of Levi.
act for an audience of 100,000. Variation
keeps it interesting.”
So, did it hit while you were in Levi?
”I did get song ideas while at the cottage in
Levi, since my head was in a happy place. After enjoying the sauna, good food, red wine
and pancakes, my mind was really racing.”
Do you ever miss Lapland when you are on
tour?
”Well, I always know I can come back here.
For the time being, they have let me pass
through customs (laugh). When I am on a
longer trip, I do start to miss the peace and
quiet. I usually visit Northern Finland when
I need a genuine rest, since it is my way of
leaving the hustle and bustle behind.”
Grand festival or intimate club?
”Definitely both! Last year, we played at a
company party for 50 people and as the main
When will you be performing in Levi
again?
”Hopefully as soon as possible.”
Children Of Bodom / Henkka T.
Blacksmith asks: What could be a
new tourist attraction in Levi for
the winter and summer?
A downhill ice racing event, where you skate down an icy chute and
see what you and everyone else on
the course is truly made of! Levi’s
race could be one part of a larger
tour.
teemu kytövuori • photos: sunrise avenue
61 | LeviDays
We have the perfect ingredients for a great golfing experience in Levi: fantastic
fell scenery, reindeer along the course, a long season and the midnight sun.
LeviDays | 62
The perfect swing
under the midnight sun
“Tourists, in particular, are often amazed that
the summer sun doesn’t set and you can play
golf all night if you want. When you play at
night, the objective isn’t necessarily to get a
good score, but to enjoy the bird song, the nature, the scenery and the silence. The course
is always open and accessible,” states Timo
Sattanen, Managing Director of Levi Golf &
Country Club Oy.
The northernmost full-length golf course
in the European Union is located approximately 170 kilometres to the north of the polar circle. The course, designed by Architect
Pekka Sivula (SAFA), was created amidst the
breathtaking natural landscape of the fells.
“The course is at harmony with the local conditions. The experience is further enriched by the sparkling waters of the nearby lake and famous Ounas River (Ounasjoki).
The landscape is such that you just have to
stop and admire the scenery,” Timo explains.
With some luck, the exotic side of Lapland
will expose itself in the form of four-legged
forest dwellers.
“The reindeers live on and around the
course and are not afraid of golfers. These
natural wonders of the arctic region can even
be used as caddies.”
The popular pride of Levi
Players describe this 18-hole pride of the Fell
Village as appealing while also quite challenging. The course has constantly increased
its popularity; for example, in summer 2010,
already nearly 11,000 rounds were played on
the course!
There is always something happening
on the course throughout the entire season. The local golf club, which has more than
600 members, is extremely active. There are,
for instance, many different golf events and
camps. The course is open from the end of
May until the end of September, when the
colours of autumn are at their finest.
“Our little golf club has grown into a highly
active group, which even has first-rate golfers among its youth in training. Our gratitude
goes out to the local who have facilitated all
this,” Timo praises.
During recent years, the golf course has
been listed among the 30 best in Finland, as
voted by the public. Up to 60 per cent of our
golfers come from areas other than the local
region. Norwegian and Swedish players are
regular guests on the course.
When you play at night,
the objective isn’t necessarily
to get a good score, but to
enjoy the bird song,
the nature, the scenery
and the silence.
The course is always open
and accessible
“Asians and other nationalities who seek
out exotic locations worldwide to play golf
also show up frequently on our course. The
course has also hosted Finnish sport and music stars, who are looking for a peaceful place
to play a round.”
New prices attract players
The course can be used by shareholders, who
are cottage owners, local hotels and private
owners. Playing rights are also extended to
tourists.
From now on, evening and night rounds
cost 30 euro. At the beginning of the summer,
when the course is not quite yet at its peak
splendour, the green fee is also 30 euro. During July-August, the daytime green fee is 45
euro, and during the peak of the autumn season in September, the green fee is 60 euro.
The Junior green fee is a 30 percent discount
off of the standard fee.
Levi provides very high quality equipment
rentals. Levi Golf & Country Club has ensured
that everything necessary for a great playing
experience is in order.
“We endeavour to ensure that no travellers need drag their own golf bags with them
into the aeroplane or car. By providing highstandard rental equipment, we have made it
even easier for everyone to get out there on
the course. Our customers have been very
satisfied and many have even stayed to play
for longer than they originally planned.
The Club facilities feature a new golf simulator that can be used by travellers, also in
the winter. Thus, you can play golf all year
round in Levi.
“The simulator is truly the newest of the
new. Come and give it a try,” Timo Sattanen
encourages.
Information about the events at Levi Golf
can be found on the online competition calendar of the Finnish Golf Union at Golf.fi.
For further information about Levi’s golf
course: Levigolf.fi and Levi.fi
teemu kytövuori, mari storhammar • photo: loiste
63 | LeviDays
•
•
•
•
Dr
1
174 m
18
Taalojärvi
•
2
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fairway descriptions 1–18
FAIRWAY 1 PAR 1
127 m from the club tee
Welcome to golf among the fells; this is
where it all starts. Clear fairway. Stream in
the middle, a bunker behind the green, Taalojärvi lake in the background.
FAIRWAY 2
PAR 4
Mild dogleg = fairway bends to the right
Uphill approach
Two ways to play: (A) Safe, sure swing up the
centre of the fairway. You will end up behind
the trees and there is still 160-170 m. to the
green. (B) If you have a handle on golf, take a
small risk. With Taalojärvi lake to your left as
you swing, cut slightly over the lake and you
will get further. The remaining distance to
the green is only about 100-110 m.
FAIRWAY 3PAR 4
Extremely tight (nearly 90°) dogleg to the left
Choose to swing with either a 2 iron or a 3
wood. A long launch places the ball in line
with the flag, so that the second swing has a
LeviDays | 64
4
)
•
•
)
The northernmost full-length golf course in the EU
Country Club course
A game season from May to October
(weather permitting)
Course pro: Batu Lempinen
Mosquitoes: occasional
Specialty: mountain scenery, midnight
sun, reindeer, the local reindeer rule,
Ounas River.
Total length of course:
• from the white tee: 6335 m
• from the yellow tee (club tee): 5943 m
• from the red tee: 5195 m
Ideal score: par 73
Most difficult fairway: No. 12
Record: 74 (Batu Lempinen, pro)
Hole in one: 3, fairways 1 and 5.
No. of golf club members: more than 600.
Levi Par clubhouse: Draivi restaurant, Levi
Pro Shop, Caddie Master’s office, Members’
Club facilities. Changing rooms and show er facilities. A driving range and short game
areas are located close to Levi Par
200 m
)
209 m
Levi Golf Course
distance of 130-150 m to land the ball on the
green. There is a bunker on the left side of the
green. Beautiful fairway, since the ball is hit
down the hill.
FAIRWAY 4PAR 5
Dogleg to the right, opportune fairway for
a birdie
Once again two options for the launch:
(A) Take a risk and launch the ball over the
woods. With long strokes, you may reach the
green on the second swing, thereby giving
you a shot at an eagle. (B) Play along the fairway to the slightly raised green.
FAIRWAY 5PAR 3
The pond is to your left as you swing. The
challenge on this fairway is the bunker to the
left and slightly in front of the green.
FAIRWAY 6PAR 4
A fairway that curves slightly to the left
The drive holds great significance if you are
looking for a good score. The second swing
should launch the ball downhill. The flag is
not visible from the tee.
FAIRWAY 7PAR 4
Opportune fairway for a birdie
For a sure thing, play the fairway from the
left side of the pond. A risk-taker may try to
drive the ball over the pond, but this requires
a drive of more than 200 m. This is one fairway where a risk, if successful, will definitely pay off. Once you get over the pond, the
green is only 80-90 m away. The short iron is
the club of choice here.
FAIRWAY 8PAR 5
Small dogleg to the right
A challenging fairway even for true golf enthusiasts. A beautiful fairway with demanding aspects. There is a stream across the fairway and a pond on the right side. If you use
the driver to launch the ball over the stream,
it gives you an opening of over 200 metres.
There is a danger that the amazing scenery
may relax your focus.
FAIRWAY 9PAR 4
Small dogleg to the left
You have already made it halfway – well
done! Now you just need a good drive and
)
17
8
199 m
174 m
)
)
ne
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tel
)
187 m 193 m
16
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)
l
tee
m
11
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7
197 m
189 m )
9
)
)
202 m
203 m
)
)
i
Lev
15
214 m
199 m
14
12
3
5
203 m
)
10
219 m
)
13
6
solid approach. If your second drive goes
long, the area behind the green takes a steep
turn downward – and the ball will roll down
into the woods. Keep your approach a slight
bit short to the front of the green. Remember
to approach the green from the right. There is
a deep bunker on the left side.
FAIRWAY 10PAR 4
Dogleg that bends slightly to the left
There is a pond on the left side. Clear, wide
fairway.
FAIRWAY 11PAR 4
Dogleg – bends mildly to the right side
This is a club player’s place to gain a good
score, since the fairway is not very long.
FAIRWAY 12PAR 4
Dogleg that curves uphill to the right
Congratulations! You have reached the most
difficult fairway on the course. Protected ravine on the left – you know what that means.
Play the fairway on the right and approach
the green from the right. Uphill approach.
Select a larger club, since the hill will eat at
your drive.
FAIRWAY 13PAR 3
Beautiful shorter fairway, which has bunkers on both side of the green. Swing downhill. The Ounas River flows beyond the green.
Take the wind into account.
FAIRWAY 16PAR 4
Nearly 90° dogleg to the left
Start with the driver and you have a possibility to reach the green with your second swing.
Slightly raised green. Clear fairway.
FAIRWAY 14PAR 5
Dogleg bends to the right
Your second drive should be more accurate,
otherwise you will be fishing your ball out
of the pond on the left. The fairway narrows
quite a bit before the third swing.
FAIRWAY 17PAR 5
Requires a solid drive. The fairway has bunkers on both sides at 210-230 m. Ideally, you
should launch your opening shot between
the bunkers and slightly to the left of the fairway. This will allow your second drive to give
you an opportunity to reach the green and
even put for an eagle. An average golfer will
approach the green in three strokes.
FAIRWAY 15PAR 4
Dogleg that bends slightly to the right
Golfers with a really long drive can reach the
green with their opening shot. Wise to start
with a 2 iron or 3 wood. Beware fairway bunkers. Use a short iron for the second drive. You
have a good chance at coming in under par
on this hole. The flag can be seen from the
tee. Clear fairway.
FAIRWAY 18PAR 4
The challenge in this fairway is the pond and
bunker in front of the green. A secure player
will play through the fairway. A long iron is a
sure first choice. A short iron is a good bet for
the second drive. This fairway appears easy,
because you can see the flag, but be warned,
it is far away!
65 | LeviDays
Cycling brings the whole family together for a condition-enhancing activity. The best thing is that, in Levi,
you don’t need to be a professional cyclist to hop onto
the saddle.
LeviDays | 66
Levi is home to the world’s northernmost Kona Bike Park.
Although favoured by young people, it is also an excellent place of recreation for the entire family. The youngest members of the family will be drawn to the mini park:
a great place for children who are able to cycle without
the assistance of training wheels.
For bigger boys and girls, the park houses the fastest
downhill trail in Finland, suitable for daredevils aged 13
and over. If you are interested in learning downhill biking, you can hone your skills on Bike Park’s two freeride
trails.
Cyclists can always go around the jumps and other challenging parts and thus get acquainted with the
sport at their own pace.
“The blue trail is the easiest, and is suitable even for
beginners. If skills or courage fail you, you can always
walk the bike down,” suggests local biking guru Jari
”Kide” Kiiskinen.
A low threshold to join in
Levi’s Bike Park has already gained international credibility within the biking community. It attracts downhill
bikers in particular from Sweden and Norway. They offer ample positive feedback – Bike Park provides a genuine challenge!
If you do not wish to put your own bike to the test,
suitable vehicles are available for rent at either Zero
Point at the heart of Levi or Bike Park’s rental shop in the
Gondola area.
Even the most inexperienced mountain biker will find
it easy to pick up a bike and begin exploring the terrain
around the Levi Fell.
“There are pleasant soft trails in the region, perfect for
getting acquainted with the sport. If you wish to get a
broader view of the fell environment on bike, you can always ride around the Kätkä Fell.”
“For the more demanding trails, you should always
bring along someone who knows the route and location
of suitable rest stops. You’ll get a much nicer start to the
hobby when you don’t constantly have to think about
your location,” Kide recommends.
Advice even for the pros
Kide runs a new outdoor recreation company, Kide Adventure, which offers guided cycling for travellers at all
levels of experience. The programme involves cycling
the 10-kilometre LEVI24 route in groups of 6 to 10 people,
with the added bonus of a ride around Lake Immeljärvi.
“The aim is to provide the average Joe and Jill with a
fun adventure. Activities don’t always have to be so extreme to gain great experiences.”
“We want to showcase the race trail to travellers, too, because it’s a
very versatile route that provides a good introduction to the sport,”
he continues.
Travellers can get Kide to guide them on the more challenging
and demanding trails. His expertise has also been sought out by Pia
Sundstedt, a successful competitor in the Mountain Bike World Cup.
Mountain biking in Levi is an experience. If you have
never tried it before, test it as soon as possible.
• Varied terrain for all ages
• A suitable biking destination for the whole family is Merkkisen kaltio, with two different routes to choose from. Both routes are
considered easy in terms of their level of difficulty.
• Those looking for a little more of a challenge should be satisfied
by a ride around the Kätkä and Pyhä Fells. It gives you a good
20 kilometres of exercise.
• Try riding along the ski tracks.One alternative is to ride the trail
of the LEVI24 mountain bike event. Along the 10-kilometre trail,
bikers will encounter a widely varied terrain.
• Follow the road to the Särkitunturi Fell, but remember to bring a good map!
Levi Bike Park Altitude difference 310 m • Three downhill trails: 1. Blue Groove =
freeride trail, difficulty level blue, 2. Santa’s Cabin = freeride trail,
difficulty level red, 3. Downhill = downhill trail, difficulty level
black • Skill Bill – slopestyle area • Junior trail – practice trail.
teemu kytövuori, kati klaavuniemi • photos: mikko nikkinen, per lundström
67 | LeviDays
To whom would you recommend Levi’s
biking possibilities?
“There are many different kinds of trails,
some easy, some difficult. I’m sure there’s
one for everybody.”
What’s next for you?
“The Trans Germany stage race begins in a
week. It runs around the Garmisch-Partenkirchen region, making a brief visit into Austria. Then it’s time for the European Mountain Bike Marathon Championship in Austria
and the World Championship in Italy. After
that, I plan on making a comeback to road
racing. I’ll be participating in international
competitions and collecting world ranking
points. I’ve got my sights set on the Olympics
in London.”
Introducing Pia Sundstedt
Pia Sundstedt is a Finnish cyclist and a seasoned Lapland enthusiast.
Let’s find out how mountain biking’s little beam of sunshine is doing.
“I’m fine, thanks! The sun is shining and my
bike keeps rolling. Everything’s coming up
roses, as the saying goes.”
You went for a short 100 km ride. Was it a
good trip?
“I took a little spin near my German home in
the Black Forest. It’s my favourite on-road
route. There are a couple of longer inclines
and fantastic views.”
That sounds nice. What kind of relationship do you have with Finland’s fells?
“It’s been a good one ever since childhood.
Especially when I was competing in crosscountry skiing, I’d always head out to test
the first snow. But my true interest in Lapland started with winter holidays with my
parents.”
“For me, Lapland and its fells signify a
means of relaxing while enjoying recreational sports. In Central Europe, the hustle and
bustle can get a bit excessive at times. Sitting in the middle of the wild, you can experi-
ence the silence. That’s what I miss and that’s
where I head on holiday. Lapland is truly
beautiful, and I enjoy its unique nature. The
fells are like beautiful rock piles compared to
the mountains of Central Europe. That’s my
beautiful homeland!”
Kide designed you a biking route in Levi.
How did he succeed in his task?
“Kide did a fantastic job! The days were incredible! Cycling in Lapland can be pretty
challenging. Sometimes you ride on difficult
trails, sometimes on duckboards. It improves
your technique and bike control.”
What should one consider when trying a
new route?
“It’s good to bring a GPS tracker and, of
course, a mobile phone. Personally, I always
take a map as well, because I like reading
maps. It’s always sensible to tell those “left
behind” where you’re going and when you’re
planning to be back.”
Born: 2 May 1975 in Kokkola, Finland
Nationality: Finnish
Trophies:
Road bicycle racing
Giro d’Italia, 3 stage wins
Giro del Trentino, overall winner
1997 and 2000 + 2 stage wins
La Coupe du Monde Cycliste
Féminine de Montréal 2000
Finnish Road Champion 1996,
1997, 2001 and 2002
Road World Cup, 2nd overall 2000
La Flèche Wallonne, 2nd 1998
and 2000
Mountain bike racing
Mountain bike marathon
European champion 2005
Mountain bike marathon
World Championship bronze
2007 and 2008
European Mountain Bike Marathon
Championship silver 2008
European Mountain Bike Marathon
Championship bronze 2010
Mountain Bike Marathon
World Cup, overall winner 2006, 2007 and 2008
Other
1979
Finnish champion in sand castle
building, children’s category,
Hailuoto
kati klaavuniemi • photo: marcus greber
LeviDays | 68
Challenge yourself and your team to
cycle for 24 hours in Levi’s magnificent fell terrain. Does that sound too
rough?
“The trail can be challenging at times, but
any reasonably fit person should be able to
manage it,” promises Mikko Saarinen, one
of the organisers of the event.
But what if you break a sweat?
“You certainly should! It only serves to
make the after bike party that much better if
you’ve done some pedalling,” the event planner laughs.
The LEVI24 mountain bike event is attended by 30–40 teams every year. The foundations of the event are, as usual, charity and
good team spirit.
You can certainly ride solo, but the participants are generally companies and groups of
friends. The teams ride the trail together for
24 hours, and the team with the most overall
kilometres wins.
“One member of the team is always riding.
Meanwhile, the rest of the team can chill,
cheer or enjoy the other event activities.”
The fun event is ripe with activities. Once,
the event area even included, among other
things, jamming bands. The cyclists will be
looked after well – one year featured a tent
in which two physiotherapy students sorted
out the participants’ calf problems.
LEVI24 mountain bike event: Levi24.fi
Series: • Solo: women & men • 2-person teams
• 4-person teams • Hobby max. 6 persons • Charity max. 8 persons
teemu kytövuori, kati klaavuniemi • photo: paul palmer
69 | LeviDays
Levi offers you
Try a village bike a challenging
adventure
Levi Adventure Park is located in the Gondola area, in the forest next
to the Levi Black piste.
Here you can experience a genuine mountain
adventure that’s completely safe. The Adventure Park has six tracks of different lengths and
levels, identified by color codes according to
the difficulty. This allows adventurers to choose
the ones that best suit their skills.
Most of the adventure takes place in the air,
several meters above ground level. Adventurers
make use of cables, as well as wooden and rope
bridges to move safely from one point to the
next, eventually conquering the entire track.
Official village bike rental shops
Safe and supervised
Practicing in the park requires balance, concentration, coordination and sometimes
strength as well. The Adventure Park is great
fun for families as well as work groups. Everyone does the tracks at the level that suits them
– or maybe just a bit more difficult!
Safety comes first at Levi Adventure Park.
All of our instructors have been trained by the
Finnish climbing association (SKIL). They instruct every adventurer on safety matters before getting on the track. Adventures wear a
helmet, gloves and harness through which they
are attached to the safety cables.
The Adventure Park has been built in a nature friendly way on a genuine, ruggedly beautiful northern landscape. So now it is time to
challenge yourself and join the club!
Track description
The track for children
The lowest and easiest track – runs at 50c m off the ground and is intended for 4 to 6 year olds (minimum height 100 cm). The track has
10 challenges, such as the Waving Trees, Monkey Bridge and Nepalese Bridge. Parents must keep a close eye on the child when he or
she is on the track.
Track 1 = for beginners
Orange track for beginners and children over 120 cm, set at 1.5 metres above ground level. All adventurers taller than 120 cm begin
Did you know that Levi has a reserve of 120 village bikes for travellers to use? They can be rented free of charge. This means of transport supports the idea of a car-free centre for the fell village and is a
part of the joint environmental co-operation efforts of Levi’s flagship
companies, more info on which is available in the Green Days section on Levi’s website.
“Village bikes are easy to recognise by their green colour. The wellmaintained village bikes won’t break down even if you fancy a ride
around the entire fell. Eco-friendly transportation provides a relaxing and pleasant way to get around,” praises rental boss Pekka Rajala.
LeviDays | 70
• Restaurant Draivi at the golf course
• Rental shop in the Gondola area
• Hotel Hullu Poro
• Hotel K5 (in September)
• Hotel Levi Panorama
• Spa Hotel Levitunturi
• Lapland Hotel Sirkantähti
• Levi Tourist Information
• Sokos Hotel Levi
• Zero Point
with this track and must go with an instructor through its 9 challenges, including plank
and mesh bridges and a cable slide, before
moving on to more challenging tracks.
Track 2 = 11 challenges
Green track for beginners and children over
130 cm, set 3 metres above ground level. 11
challenges, including Stairs, Cross Bridge and
Barrel, passed independently.
Track 3 = a bit trickier
This blue track has 12 challenges that are a
bit trickier, such as the Waving Bridge, Cable
Slide and Crevasses Bridge. The adventurer
has to pass five metres above ground level for
these challenges (minimum height 140 cm).
Track 4 = requires more strength
The red track requires more strength and
dexterity than the previous ones (minimum
height 140 cm). It offers 13 challenges, such
as the Flying Tree, Tarzan Leap and Pirate
Bridge. Adventurers wanting to get on this
track must practice on the green and blue
tracks first.
Track 5 = includes a 100-metre slide
At 9 metres off the ground, the black track
is the most challenging of them all. It is intended for the most athletic visitors (minimum height 155 cm) who want to test their
limits, mentally as well as physically. On the
11 challenges of this track, including Swinging Steps and Tarzan’s ropes, your strength
and balance are really put to the test. The
black track ends with a 100-metre slide, the
Flying Fox.
teemu kytövuori • photo: loiste
71 | LeviDays
FI - 99130 LEVI Tel. +358 (0) 16 6510 100
hotel@hulluporo.fi sales@hulluporo.fi
www.hulluporo.fi
Hotel Hullu Poro (Crazy Reindeer) offers
accommodation to suit all tastes. Choose
your favourite from a range of different
sizes of rooms, equipped with private
saunas, bath tubs or steam showers. Or
book your accommodation at the luxury
apartment by Levi Square or at our
country house Taivaanvalkeat located 8
km from the centre.
We are pleased to provide you with an
opportunity to pamper yourself at our
Wellness Center and Day Spa. Find a good
selection of relaxation possibilities such as
bath department with jacuzzi, luxurious
beautician treatments or infrared sauna.
Penthouse
Within the hotel your will also find Hullu
Poro conference facilities offering a
first-rate venue for meetings, seminars,
conferences, exhibitions or group events.
Hullu Poro Restaurants at your service
- ALL DAY AND ALL NIGHT
Hullu Poro is glad to welcome you to dining delights from Lappish delicacies to exotic Asian flavours. Sample
your favourites from the variety of our set menus: Feast of Reindeer at Kammi, Steakhouse menu or Taivas
dinner buffet. Or enjoy à la carte delicacies of Rock Café Wanha Hullu Poro, retro restaurant Ämmilä, Asia
Brasserie or Kultainen Poro. For groups Taivaanvalkeat and Tonttula on the bank of the Ounasjoki river is an
unforgettable experience.
After skiing, after shopping or before hitting the bright lights our cafés and take away bars serve you with
tasty snacks and refreshing drinks. Try the delicious crêpes of Kana & Kannu or a plate of sushi at Sushi Bar &
Grill InTeam. For season 2011-2012 we open a new Pub at Levi Tori where you can hear the hottest roomers
or relax at cosy atmosphere with a great pint of beer.
Hullu Poro's night life rocks. Legendary Rock Café Wanha Hullu Poro is the place you don´t wanna miss and
Hullu Poro Areena amazes you with top bands performing on stage. For private party or cocktail occasion you
can rent the Nightclub Porocks.
WELCOME!
LeviDays | 72
Päivikki Palosaari, Owner
Hullu Poro Areena
Reindeer f
feast of Restaurant Kammi
THE FAMILY-OWNED HOTEL
In the heart of Levi village!
With us you are never limited to
nts
just one restaurant, our 14 restaurants
offer new experiences and flavourss
for each day of the week.
73 | LeviDays
Where to get
a two-wheeler?
Thanks to the rental shops of Zero Point and Bike
Park, it’s easy and affordable to get acquainted
with the different disciplines of biking.
SAMPLE OF Weekly programme
for summer 4th June – 31st August 2012
Canoeing safari on the river Ounasjoki Canoeing
“Here, you can get your hands on a genuine top bike. All the necessary equipment can be rented. Safety is a top priority for us; we offer advice and help with any questions,” emphasises biking expert
Jari “Kide” Kiiskinen.
The bike selection is top quality, and it serves both younger and
older cyclists. In Levi, the number of downhilll bikes for hire alone is
nearly 30. The selection contains bikes that are suitable for any style.
The main brand at Levi’s rental shops is Kona. They have bikes for
all types of cycling, and the selection covers all ages from little kiddies to grown-ups. In addition to mountain bikes and downhill bikes,
it’s worth trying out a light racing bicycle and speeding around the
Levi Fell.
“Road bikes provide a very enjoyable ride. The tyres are so ridiculously narrow that it’s easy pick up speed.
Once the equipment is sorted, it’s time to get to business. Put your
helmet on, grab the handlebars and simply point your front tyre towards the target destination!
Levi’s bike rentals
LeviDays | 74
Zero Point rental shop XC, road and basic bicycles Open daily 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Hissitie 8, front slope T. +358 (0)207 960 206, Fax +358 (0)16 641 247
Gondola rental shop / Gravity rental Downhill, freeride, dirt and street bicycles Open daily 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. (4 June – 27 September 2012) Gondolitie 4 T. +358 (0)207 960 208
is a fun and easy way to traverse nature. The canoeing excursion takes us from Köngäs to Sirkka along the river Ounasjoki. On the way there are no actual rapids, just a few strong flows of water. Before starting off, the guide teaches us
the basics and how to handle the canoe. Suitable for beginners. On the way we will have a break to enjoy sausages fried
over the campfire. Possibility for swimming. Price € 30/person and € 17/child (6–12 yrs) including transportation from
Levi, canoeing equipment, tuition, refreshments. Duration
about 2–3 hrs.
Into the foaming rapids on a car inner tube Welcome to an unforgettable speed-filled experience; shooting
clear Lappish river rapids with a car inner tube. The tube
spins, the water splashes and laughing comes naturally. The
guide is with you all the time. We dress in appropriate gear;
wet suit, helmet, life-jacket, knee pads and flippers. A possibility to go into the sauna after the rapid visit. Please bring
your own bathing suite and towel! Price € 27/adult and € 17/
child (10–12 yrs). Participants must be at least 10 years old to
participate. Duration about 2–3 hrs.
Cycling in Bike Park Hit the free ride routes by bike
and enjoy Levi’s beautiful landscapes on a guided trip. Levi
Kona Groove Approved Bike Park has been built to the Western slope of Levi to the area of the Gondola. The program is
suitable also for beginners – children must be over 10 years.
Please note that there must be a written permission by the
parents for attendants under 18 years old. Price: € 27/person,
incl. transportation, bicycle, safety gear, Gondola lift ticket
and tuition. Please take your own drinking bottle with you.
Duration about 1,5–2 hrs.
These three programs are just an example of the wide selection of
programs for summer 2012
Best events
in Levi!
Visit our 3 different restaurants from traditional
Lappish to a high quality à la carte.
RESTAURANT
OKTA
in Hotel K5 Levi
in Hotel Levi Panorama
Saamen
Kammi
in Hotel K5 Levi
Tel. +358 16 336 3000
Golevi.fi is FIS
World Cup winner Tanja Poutiainen’s official
partner
Unique hotel in the heart of the Levi village - Hotel K5 Levi
Kätkänrannantie 2, FI-99130 Levi
The best view by the slope side – real ski in & ski out - Hotel Levi Panorama
Tunturitie 205, FI-99130 Levi
Excellent place for different kind of venues all year round - Levi Summit
Tunturitie 205, FI-99130 Levi
75 | LeviDays
A Relaxing Holiday!
The easiest way to book a Levi holiday is to reserve all
your accommodation and programs through our Central
Booking Office. We have the greatest selection on offer
– you’ll find the best chalets and holiday apartments in
and around Levi.
You can book all Levi programmes and services through
us from safaris to various experiences around the year.
Remember to check the seven-day programme from
Levi’s web site!
Book your holiday conveniently in the internet at Levi.fi
– our travelshop is at your service 24 h!
Remember to like us on Facebook and to follow us on
Twitter. Get also acquainted with our mobile services
at m.levi.fi
Easy days in many ways
LEVI CENTRAL BOOKING OFFICE AND
TOURIST INFORMATION • 99130 Levi, Finland
T. +358 16 639 3300 • Fax +358 16 643 469
levin.matkailu@levi.fi, levi.info@levi.fi
Levi.fi

The White Circus

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