Why Tahko is the best family-friendly ski destination in Finland: a complete winter guide

Looking for the perfect family winter vacation? Forget Austria or France and visit Finland. The past winter break, we traveled to Finland for the fourth time in Finland family winter holiday. This time we discovered the Finland’s Lakeland, and I can already say that we had a blast. So keep reading and discover why Tahko is the best family-friendly ski destination in Finland. From beginner slopes and ski school to après-ski and many winter activities, this complete winter guide covers everything you need for a memorable family getaway.

Why families love skiing in Tahko, Finland

Nestled in the heart of Eastern Finland, Tahko is one of the country’s best family-friendly ski destination and winter adventures. With 20 km of skiable slopes, Tahko is the third-largest ski resort in Finland, ranking just behind Ylläs (53 km) and Levi (38,5 km). Despite its impressive size, Tahko remains a hidden gem offering 25 diverse slopes, a dedicated beginner area, snow parks and a top-rated ski school. It’s the perfect place for both first-time skiers and seasoned enthusiasts. Families can enjoy child-friendly lifts, broad slopes, and exciting off-slope activities, from Finland’s longest zipline and snowshoeing to cozying up in lakeside cabins. It offers a safe, welcoming, and fun atmosphere.

Tahko is conveniently located: just 60 km from Kuopio, making it an easy getaway. Positioned almost halfway between Helsinki (435 km) and Rovaniemi (495 km), it offers the perfect balance of accessibility and authentic winter charm. Despite its location, the slopes remain uncrowded, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable skiing experience without long lift lines or packed runs which it is perfect for families. We were there on week 8 (one of Finland’s ski holiday weeks) and the most that we waited for a lift was five minutes.

The parking areas are just in front of the lifts, and by that I mean that you just walk 100 meters from the car to the lift. With kids, this is something I value a lot. I always have extra clothes and snacks in the car, so having it close to the lift is great. And let’s be honest, who wants to walk far with three pair of skis at the end of the day?

The best beginner and family-friendly slopes in Tahko

Tahko Ski Resort offers a total of 20 km of skiable slopes, divided into 10 km of blue slopes, 8 km of red slopes, and 2 km of black slopes. The 25 slopes are spread across two main areas: the Front Slopes and the West Slopes.

The Front Slopes feature most of Tahko’s black runs, catering to experienced skiers. However, this area is also home to the beginner-friendly Mini Mountain, designed for first-time skiers. Mini Mountain includes a carpet lift, a button lift, and three gentle slopes, making it the perfect place for newcomers to start their skiing journey. This area offers a reduced ski pass: 25€/day or 15€/2 hours for both children and adults. During the sky holiday weeks, competitions for young skiers are also hosted here.

For families with kids who have skied before, the west slopes provide a great mix of blue runs and an easy snow park, ensuring a fun and accessible skiing experience for all skill levels. One day ski passes start at 49€ for adults and 32€ for children, but there’re as well options for 2 or 3 hours, evening, multiple days and even a skipass for Tahko and Vuokatti.

Ski school & lessons for kids and beginners in Tahko

Whether you or your children are beginners or want to gain some extra confidence, the Tahko Mountain ski school has you covered! They offer guidance in alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, telemark, and adaptive skiing for all skill levels.

If your kids have never skied before, I would recommend private lessons for them. The lessons start at 60€/person for 50 minutes, with an additional 20€ for each extra person. For two kids, it would be 80€ for 50 minutes or 210€ for 150 minutes, and the price includes the ski pass during the lesson (something that’s not always the case at other ski resorts).

If your kids can already ski and have different skill levels, like our kids, I would choose group lessons. While Mika, our youngest, is very cautious (even fearful while skiing), he can ski on a blue slope, while Liam, our oldest, can ski on red slopes and learns very quickly. He’s fearless but also very skillful. You can imagine that taking a private instructor for both of them together wouldn’t be the best idea. That’s why only Mika participated in the 2-day Werneri blue course. Liam didn’t participate in any course because we used the time Mika was in ski lessons to try ziplining (Mika is too light for it) and to go ice karting.

Werneri Ski School is a concept created by the Finnish Ski Centre Association, focusing on teaching kids. All ski resorts in Finland follow this method and use similar levels. If you complete a course at one ski resort, you can continue with the next level at a different ski resort. In Tahko, Werneri courses are held at Christmas and New Year, during the winter holidays (weeks 8–10), and at Easter. The course takes 100 minutes each day, which I think is perfect: not too short, but also not too long, and you can choose between a 2, 3, or 4-day course.

If you’re wondering about the language, we don’t speak Finnish, but that wasn’t a problem: Tahko’s ski instructors speak English. Mika is shy, but his instructor, Eriika, was lovely. You could tell she had a lot of experience with kids and made sure Mika felt part of the group. Every day, she took the time after the lesson to talk about where they had been and how Mika was progressing.

One remarkable fact about the ski school in Tahko is that during the course, lift rides are included in the price, but also kids participating in the Werneri courses can buy a ski pass at a special price of €30 for a 2-day course, €45 for a 3-day course, €60 for a 4-day course, and can rent equipment at a special price of €15/day from SkiMac Tirol. Just do the math: a 2-day Werneri ski course, 2-day ski pass, and equipment rental costs 155€, while a 2-day ski pass and equipment rental alone cost 109€.

Beyond skiing: fun winter activities for families in Tahko

The reason we love going on a winter vacation to Finland is that, in addition to skiing, there are a lot of fun winter activities. We usually combine two or three days of skiing with other winter activities like snowshoeing, visiting reindeer farms, fat biking, ice fishing, and more. There are so many possibilities that one week won’t be enough to do it all. Below are some of the best winter activities for families in Tahko. You can book a lot of experiences on tahko’s website.

TIP: Plan which activities you want to do and book them in advance, especially the husky safaris.

Tahko’s zipline: the longest zipline in Finland

In addition to skiing, one of the highlights of our visit to Tahko for our oldest, Liam, was the Tahko’s zipline. Stretching almost 1,100 meters, it’s the longest zipline in Finland. Starting at the top of the mountain, it operates year-round, offering a thrilling ride at speeds of 60 to 70 km/h. It’s the perfect way to take a break from skiing and experience the breathtaking views from above.

In winter, the easiest way to reach the zipline start platform is by taking the T-bar lift 4/5 and skiing down to the launch area, or you can take the scenic chairlift and walk about 1,2 kilometers. Alternatively, you can hike the Huutavanholma Trail, which is 1,6 kilometers with a 140-meter ascent from the Huutavanholma gate to the zipline’s upper station.

If you’re skiing, you’ll leave your skis at the upper station, and an ATV will bring them down for you. In our case, we were the only ones there, and at the bottom station, they kindly offered to drive us back to the top, so we could ski down the black slope. Liam was thrilled when I said he could do so while I picked Mika from the ski lesson! He gave the experience a solid 15 out of 10 after flying down the zipline, riding up in a snow car, and skiing down his first black slope.

The zipline costs 49€ per person and can be enjoyed by anyone weighing between 40 kg and 120 kg. Unfortunately, Mika, who weighs 25 kg, couldn’t join us. Liam, at 38 kg, was just over the weight limit with his ski gear, but they added an extra 3 kg for safety.

Ice karting in Tahko

Another highlight of our visit to Tahko was ice karting. I had hoped that Liam (1.40m) would be able to drive, as he had just been a few centimeters too short at a kart park back home. But to our surprise, Tahko 1ce karting has smaller karts, including one that fit Mika (1.25m)! You can imagine the kids excitement when both were allowed to race!

The three of us gave it a try, and it was an incredible experience. Driving on ice means you can slide, drift, and pull off cool tricks. And if you go off track? No worries, the soft snow stops the kart safely.

Normally, you need to book a group race in advance, but they also offer non-stop races between groups. When we visited, they had several open time slots where you could just drop in and enjoy a 10-minute race for 20€. The ice track is located next to the Tahko bridge, right by the end of the Tahko Zipline, so if you see the track being prepared or karts in action, it’s worth stopping by to check availability!

Super Corner Tahko

Besides all the exciting outdoor activities, Super Corner Tahko is a fantastic indoor adventure park packed with fun for all ages. It features different activity zones, from air track tumble mats and trampolines to a hockey radar, a street hockey and basketball court, and even a pedal car track.

It’s the perfect spot when you want to enjoy some active family fun, escape bad weather, or simply let the kids burn off some energy (if you have boys, you know what I mean!). We spent an entire evening here because our kids love trampolines, and SuperCorner Tahko had a great variety—including one with a bungee harness to make tricks easier!

My favorite part was SuperBall, a fast-paced game where you score points by throwing balls at a target on your opponent’s side while defending your own. Meanwhile, the kids had a blast playing street hockey with other children, making new friends in the process!

SuperCorner Tahko offers various ticket options, from 2-hour passes to full-day family tickets. Once you purchase a ticket, you’ll receive a wristband, allowing you to come and go as you please throughout the day.

Reindeer safaris

Reindeer are mostly found in Lapland, but you don’t have to travel that far to meet them! Tahkon Porosafarit is a small reindeer farm in Tahko, home to five friendly reindeer. Visitors can feed them (you can buy lichen on-site) or enjoy an unforgettable reindeer sleigh ride.

And the best part? In Tahko, you get to drive the sled yourself! When we arrived, I was surprised when the herder started explaining which reindeer were easier to handle. But it all made sense when she handed us the sled ropes and began teaching us how to steer. She led the way, walking ahead while we followed on a track across the frozen lake.

The experience was magical. By the time we reached the halfway point and had gotten used to steering the reindeer at a steady walking pace, the herder taught us how to go a bit faster. The kids couldn’t stop smiling, they were having the time of their lives!

Since we were short on time, we opted for a short ride around the lake (~15 minutes, €17.50 for kids, €25 for adults), but there are also longer options through the forest or even rides that include a campfire coffee experience.

Husky safaris

If you’ve ever dreamed of dashing through the snow on a husky-pulled sled, Tahko offers the perfect opportunity! Here, you can meet these incredible dogs and experience the thrill of a husky safari.

Whether you want to ride through snowy landscapes, cuddle with the huskies, or take them for a walk, there are several options to choose from. You can check out the different experiences available on Tahko’s website and book the one that suits you best.

No matter which activity you pick, spending time with these energetic and friendly dogs is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience!

Northern Lights in Tahko

Watching the Aurora dance across the night sky has become one of my favorite holiday experiences in Finland. While Tahko is in central Finland, it’s still a great spot for aurora hunting, and in my case, I had a 100% success rate! We spent two nights in Tahko, and on both nights, the Northern Lights put on a magical display.

One of the reasons Tahko is such a good place to see the auroras is the lack of light pollution. Plus, with the area being surrounded by a lake, you can easily get an unobstructed view from the shore of the lake.

Since my kids were sleeping, I simply enjoyed the breathtaking show from our doorstep.

Snowshoeing & winter hiking in Tahko

Another of our favorite winter activities in Finland is snowshoeing. It’s a fantastic way to explore the untouched beauty of the snowy forests and discover some truly breathtaking spots. Tahko has incredible spots to be discovered by snowshoeing, like the stunning Mäkiautio Gorge and the scenic observation tower, both of which provide unforgettable winter landscapes.

You can rent snowshoes and venture out on your own, but joining a guided tour comes with extra perks, like learning about the local nature, hearing fascinating stories, and even enjoying a hot drink in the middle of the wilderness.

Cross country skiing in Tahko

Tahko offers 67 km of cross-country skiing trails, winding through scenic winter landscapes. Of these, 20 km are illuminated, allowing skiers to enjoy the trails until 9 PM.

With a range of well-maintained routes, cross-country skiing in Tahko is easily accessible for all skill levels. Many trails start directly from accommodations and parking areas, making it convenient to get out and explore. Along the way, you’ll find rest stops and essential services to ensure a smooth skiing experience.

Spas

After a day on the slopes, there’s no better way to recharge and warm up than spending the evening at one of Tahko’s inviting spas. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly experience or a peaceful retreat, there’s an option for everyone:

• Tahko Spa, a great choice for families and traditional spa lovers, featuring pools, jacuzzis, and activities for all ages.
• Forest Spa, located at the top of the slopes, this adults-only spa offers a tranquil escape with an outdoor hot tub surrounded by nature.
• Tahko Rooftop Spa, situated on the top floor of Break Sokos Hotel Tahko, this spa features 180-degree panoramic views overlooking the ski slopes, perfect for a relaxing soak with a view.
  

Best family-friendly accommodation in Tahko

With over 8,600 beds and nearly 1,000 accommodations options, Tahko offers a wide range of places to stay, whether you prefer a cozy cottage, a hotel, or a modern apartment.

During our visit, we stayed at Koivulankaaaria 5, a fantastic semi-detached log house that had everything we needed, from a fireplace and sauna to a drying cabinet and fully equipped kitchen. Staying in a cottage with kids is a great choice, as it allows you to prepare snacks while the kids relaxed in their PJs watching TV after a long day outdoors, wash and dry your ski clothes and use the sauna as a family at any time or just by yourself when the kids are asleep.

This log house was perfect for families, offering two bedrooms with twin beds, plus three more beds in the loft. It also had a TV, radio, WiFi, and a washing machine, making it feel like a home away from home.

For breakfast, we had the luxury of going to the buffet at Break Sokos Hotel Tahko (€19.90/adult, kids 4–12 years: €1 per year of age). It was the perfect way to start the day before hitting the slopes, and since it was just a short drive away, we could pack up, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and be ready for adventure in no time.

What we loved the most about Koivulankaaria was how spacious and spotless it was, as well as the huge windows in the living room. I could just sit there and watch for the Northern Lights, and to our surprise, we saw them both nights we stayed!

The cozy fireplace, the large sauna, and the convenience of two showers made it the perfect place for families. After a day on the slopes, it was pure bliss to relax by the fire or unwind in the sauna. Comfort, warmth, and unforgettable views, this cottage had it all.

Dining options for families in Tahko

As I mentioned earlier, you can start your day with a relaxing breakfast at Break Sokos Hotel Tahko. The buffet had a wide variety of options, including warm dishes, fresh fruit, vegetables, yogurt, cereals, an extensive selection of bread and pastries, and even gluten-free products. To my kids’ delight, there was also ice cream, and yes, they had some for breakfast (after eating something more substantial first!).

If you arrive just before the slopes open, expect it to be quite busy with families (we weren’t the only ones with this idea). However, if you come just 30 minutes earlier, it’s much quieter.

We enjoyed the food so much that we also came back for the lunch buffet at Hillside Restaurant. In Finland, many restaurants offer affordable lunch menus, sometimes as a set menu and other times as a buffet. At Break Sokos Hotel, the daily-changing lunch buffet was available until 3 PM, which was perfect since the ski lessons ended at 1:40 PM, just in time to refuel for the afternoon. It costs 15,90€ for adults and 7,90€ for Kids (4–12 years). It includes water, mixed juice, coffee/tea, and a small sweet dessert.

Just an example, the buffet had one day: meatballs in creamy tomato sauce, burgundy chicken roast, mashed potatoes, balsamic beetroot, creamy salmon soup, pancakes with strawberry jam & whipped cream.

For dinner, we tried Kotipizza, which had a great selection of tasty pizzas, a perfect casual meal after a long day outdoors. But there were many more options to choose from.

Après-ski in Tahko

Unlike many ski resorts in Finland, Tahko actually has après-ski options! One of the most popular spots is Hophaus, where you’ll find evening activities for families during the ski holidays, such as bingo and mini disco. The venue is also home to Tahko Distillery, where they produce organic gin and rye whiskey. If you sit at the bar, you can watch the distillery through a glass window.

For a ski resort in Finland, Tahko stands out with its variety of après-ski spots, making it a great place to unwind and socialize after a day on the slopes.

How to get to Tahko

There are several ways to get to Tahko, depending on your preferences. The nearest airport with a direct connection from Amsterdam is Kajaani, with flights operated by TUI once a week during the winter season. We paid 200€/person for a round-trip flight. While the flight is technically direct, it’s worth noting that on the return journey to Amsterdam, there is a brief stopover in Kuusamo. From Kajaani, you’ll need to rent a car and drive 165 km to reach Tahko.

If you prefer not to rent a car, you can fly into Helsinki and take a train to either Kuopio (where you can spend a few days) or Siilinjärvi, then continue your journey to Tahko on the free ski bus.

For those planning to visit during the Christmas holidays, another option is to drive with your own car to Travemunde in Germany, take the Finnline’s ferry to Helsinki, and then drive the remaining 435 km to Tahko.

In any case, I’m sure you will enjoy Tahko and its winter wonderland. Whether you’re skiing down its diverse slopes, enjoying the family-friendly activities, or simply soaking in the stunning snow-covered landscapes, there’s something for everyone. With its perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unique experiences, Tahko is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, plan ahead, and get ready to make the most of your winter escape to Tahko!