FAQ
Questions and answers
Here are answers to the most common questions. If something is unclear, ask us directly – we reply ourselves.
Booking and payment
How do I book?
Pick your dates in the booking bar on a property page and you'll continue to our booking system (Moder) for live prices and payment. You can also call, send a WhatsApp message or email us – we answer ourselves.
How quickly do you reply?
We always reply within the same day. You'll hear from us, Sanna and Matti – we host both homes ourselves.
What is the minimum stay?
The minimum stay is usually 2–3 nights. In peak periods such as Christmas, New Year and ski holidays it can be longer. The booking system shows the minimum for your dates.
How does payment work?
For online bookings, 30% is paid at the time of booking and the remaining 70% no later than 90 days before arrival. Bookings made less than 90 days ahead are paid in full. Payment by online bank or credit card; the booking and handling fee is €25.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, in writing no later than 90 days before arrival. We then charge a €200 cancellation fee and refund the rest of the deposit paid. If the booking was defined as paid in full in advance, there is no right of cancellation.
Are bed linen and final cleaning included?
Only when your booking confirmation says so. Bed linen is required – ask us and we'll tell you the options.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed automatically. A dog is possible for a separate fee when agreed in advance – please contact us before booking to agree on the details.
The homes and location
Where are your holiday homes?
Utsuvaara Retreat is on Utsuvaara next to the slopes, about 8 km from Levi village. Sointuilevi Central is in Nuottirakka, about 500 m from the village restaurants and shops.
Which home should we choose?
Choose Utsuvaara Retreat for slopes at the door, fell-top calm, auroras from the terrace and room for up to eight. Choose Sointuilevi Central to walk to restaurants and shops – it sleeps up to six and has a fireplace.
Do the homes have a private sauna?
Yes, both have a private sauna. Sointuilevi Central also has a fireplace and a shared kota (fire hut) in the yard.
How many guests can stay?
Utsuvaara Retreat (66 m², 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms) sleeps up to 8 and Sointuilevi Central (57 m², 2 bedrooms) up to 6.
Do I need a car?
Not at Sointuilevi Central – the village and lifts are within walking distance. At Utsuvaara the slopes start at the door, but the village is about 8 km away, so a car makes getting around easier.
Skiing and winter
Is Utsuvaara Retreat ski-in/ski-out?
Yes. Slopes and trails start about 10 metres from the door.
Are lift passes included?
In the winter season, yes: bookings at both homes include two lift passes. They aren't personal, so everyone in your group can take turns using them.
When is the ski season in Levi?
Levi's ski season typically runs from mid-October to early May, depending on snow.
How cold is Levi in winter?
Winter temperatures typically range from −5 °C to −25 °C and can drop below −30 °C. Dress in layers and bring warm boots, a hat and mittens.
Northern lights
When can you see the northern lights in Levi?
In Levi the auroras are usually visible from early September to early April on clear, dark nights, most often between 9 pm and 2 am.
Can you see them from your homes?
From Utsuvaara Retreat's terrace you can see them directly on clear nights. They have also been seen from the forest-side yard at Sointuilevi Central on active nights.
Where can I check the aurora forecast?
The Finnish Meteorological Institute's aurora forecast and apps such as My Aurora Forecast. Cloud cover often matters more than activity.
Arrival
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 17:00 and check-out by 11:00. Other times can be arranged in advance, subject to availability.
How do I get the key or door code?
You'll receive arrival and key instructions by email once the booking is paid in full. They explain exactly how to get in on your arrival day.
How do I get to Levi?
The nearest airport is Kittilä (12 km from Utsuvaara Retreat). From the airport you can reach Levi village by airport bus or taxi; Utsuvaara by taxi or car. By train you can travel to Kolari, about 80 km from Levi, and Helsinki is about 1,100 km away by car.
Who can I contact during my stay?
Us, the hosts, directly: by phone or WhatsApp on +358 43 848 6827, or by email at [email protected].