Hotel Scandic Rukahovi, Ruka

One of the world's first resorts to allow you to book your lift pass over the Internet, Ruka is Finland's best-known resort. Right up in Lapland near the Russian border, Ruka opens in October, offering some of the earliest skiing in the world. There are even snow cannons to boost the already decent snowfall. This really is wilderness country and with short winter days, night skiing is provided to get the most out of your lift pass. The skiing provides for all levels (to a limited degree) and you can ski to your door, but there are many other winter pursuits in which to indulge. Going here isn't just a ski holiday- it is an Arctic experience. Après-ski is limited but lively, as you would expect for such an isolated destination, but there are 9 hotels and cabins to rent, so Ruka isn't totally off the beaten track.