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Introducing Ruka
Finland's major ski resort, Ruka, is just 30km north of Kuusamo, in a beautiful protected nature area, with abundant wildlife. The centre buzzes during the winter, but has plenty to offer in summer, with enough services open and people about that it doesn't feel spooky. There are good deals on accommodation, from single-night stays to longer rentals. The resort itself has the usual ensemble of ugly buildings, but there are some great views westwards over the forest.
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Ruka makes a good place to start or finish the Karhunkierros trek because there are good bus connections from Kuusamo. Valtavaara hill, adjacent to the Ruka ski slope, is the best place in the region for bird-watching: around 100 species of birds nest here, and an annual bird-watching competition is held in the area in June.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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