story Behind the name
Hankasalmi, one of Southern Finland’s darkest spots, is a stargazer’s dream. During winter, the Northern Lights (Revontuli in Finnish) dance across the sky on average every other night.
Hankasalmi’s connection to this celestial display is deep, having hosted Northern Lights research since 1975. The Finnish Meteorological Institute has a research station there, and the amateur-run Hankasalmi Observatory is breaking new ground. They’re pioneering research into the elusive sounds of the aurora—a mystery yet to be solved. As a guest of the Revontuli Northern Lights Resort, you’ll have a unique opportunity to explore the Hankasalmi Observatory and its fascinating work.
Our story
In 1993, Markku Kinnunen, undeterred by his family’s doubts and the motel’s troubled past, purchased a roadside inn in Hankasalmi. He renamed it Revontuli - Finnish for Northern Lights – a timely choice, as aurora research flourished.
Though two of his daughters pursued other paths, Tiia, after exploring her own career options, returned to the family business. Alongside Markku and veteran employees Aila and Jukka, she embraced a ”philosophy of grandeur,” expanding the resort with cabins, saunas, a golf course, and more.
Today, Tiia leads Revontuli, welcoming guests from around the world. She deeply appreciates her parents’ support: her father’s entrepreneurial inspiration and her mother’s invaluable help with family. Tiia acknowledges the ongoing learning process of leadership and service, while striving for balance. Both she and Markku credit their dedicated team for Revontuli’s success and its ”House of the Best Service” award. The Revontuli team warmly welcomes you.
Environmental policy
Family-run Revontuli Resort offers unforgettable experiences year-round in the heart of Finland. Committed to sustainability since 1993, we’re Biosphere Certified (2024) and hold the Sustainable Travel Finland label (August 2024).
Visit Finland’s Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) program empowers tourism businesses to embrace sustainable practices. The prestigious STF label, earned through the program, recognizes businesses meeting stringent criteria, assuring travelers of their commitment to responsible tourism.
In the spirit of equality and inclusion, Revontuli proudly supports the We Speak Gay community, standing against all forms of discrimination. We believe travel should be accessible and welcoming to everyone, and we strive to create safe and affirming experiences for all our guests.
The Biosphere Certificate, an internationally recognized mark of sustainability, guides businesses and destinations in aligning with global sustainability goals. It certifies their commitment to rigorous environmental, social, and economic standards, fostering continuous improvement.
Revontuli welcomes cyclists with open arms and the ”Welcome Cyclists” badge, supporting eco-friendly travel. Easily accessible by bike, or via a short ride from the bike-friendly Hankasalmi train station (just 4km away), Revontuli makes exploring by bicycle a breeze.
Visit Jyväskylä Region, Central Finland’s official tourism organization, champions local businesses and showcases the region’s beauty. Revontuli partners with them to understand modern travelers’ desires, connect with fellow operators, and craft authentic, enriching experiences.
A UNESCO-recognized treasure, Finnish sauna culture thrives at Revontuli’s Sauna World, a proud Sauna from Finland member. Experience the authentic warmth and diverse traditions of this cherished ritual.
Examples on our sustainable acts
1.
Revontuli Northern Lights Resort heats its properties with renewable energy and is transitioning to a low-emission vehicle fleet, including electric golf carts.
2.
Revontuli Northern Lights Resort heats its properties with renewable energy and is transitioning to a low-emission vehicle fleet, including electric golf carts.
3.
Revontuli Northern Lights Resort heats its properties with renewable energy and is transitioning to a low-emission vehicle fleet, including electric golf carts.
4.
Revontuli Northern Lights Resort heats its properties with renewable energy and is transitioning to a low-emission vehicle fleet, including electric golf carts.
5.
Revontuli Northern Lights Resort heats its properties with renewable energy and is transitioning to a low-emission vehicle fleet, including electric golf carts.
6.
Revontuli Northern Lights Resort heats its properties with renewable energy and is transitioning to a low-emission vehicle fleet, including electric golf carts.
Our next sustainability goals
1.
We have started measuring our carbon footprint with a GHG-protocol acknowledged indicator. We aim to have the result from year 2021 soon. Carbon footprint will be measured yearly and we are committed to make actions to reduce it constantly.
2.
We are determined to reduce the use of water. We have measured water flow (L/min) in our taps. We are going to renew necessary taps to water-saving taps. We also recommend the customers to consider water-efficiency.
3.
We aim to add the percentage of renewable resources in our heating energy consumption.
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