Ruka-Kuusamo, Finland’s leading ski and outdoor destination, is coming to London to mark the launch of new direct airBaltic flights from London Gatwick and Manchester to Kuusamo. The destination is inviting UK travel trade to an evening event on the 7th of October in London.

AirBaltic will operate direct services from London Gatwick and Manchester to Kuusamo Airport on selected dates this winter taking just over three hours, while Finnair's greatly expanded network of connections via Helsinki brings Kuusamo within reach of British travellers up to seven days a week from three UK departure points, with journey times from as little as five hours 20 minutes from Manchester and five hours 35 minutes from London.

A long, reliable ski season. Ruka's 41 slopes are served by 22 lifts, including a scenic gondola, with Friday night skiing from December to mid-April. The resort also runs Finland's largest ski school, with 180 instructors, which suits families and first-timers.

Much more than downhill. There are nearly 450km of cross-country trails and 400km of marked snowmobile routes. Around 40 safari operators run husky, reindeer and northern lights programmes. Oulanka National Park is on the doorstep.

A world-class event on the calendar. Ruka will host the MoonPay X Games League Winter Season Championship from 9th-11th of April 2027.

New luxury accommodation options. Infinity Ruka, an eight-bedroom ski-in/ski-out estate with an infinity pool, opened last month. Lumo Lakeside Lodges, with private saunas and hot tubs; and glass-roofed Aurora Suites at Arctic Lumo Resort (launching in December).

At the event, trade guests will meet the Ruka-Kuusamo team and four of the destination's leading businesses, all ready to work with UK operators on the new routes:

– Ruka Ski Resort
– Ruka Safaris and Lapland Boutique Resorts
– Rukapalvelu Tailored Adventures
– Tiera Resort

Those interested in attending the London event are invited to email Ruka-Kuusamo’s UK agency via amanda@welcometoama.com. Spaces are limited.