The award was presented this week at ITB Berlin, the world’s largest travel fair in Germany. Additionally, local entrepreneur Heidi Savolainen from Adventure Apes was honored for her pioneering work in accessible tourism.
Multiple Awards for Ruka-Kuusamo at the World's Largest Travel Fair
Ruka-Kuusamo has received the prestigious Scandinavian Outdoor Award Travel and is now officially the 2025 Outdoor Destination of the Year.
Published 6.3.2025
The Scandinavian Outdoor Award Travel is granted annually to destinations and tourism companies that have excelled in the development of outdoor and adventure tourism. The awards have five categories: two for destinations (outdoor and sustainability) and three for companies (product, transportation, and accommodation).
The purpose of the awards is to highlight the best Scandinavian travel destinations and development projects, attracting travelers from the DACH market—Germany, Austria, and Switzerland—to the North.
Ruka-Kuusamo Named 2025 Outdoor Destination of the Year
Ruka-Kuusamo was selected as the Outdoor Destination of the Year 2025 in the Outdoor Destination category. The winners are chosen by a German-speaking jury consisting of some of the most influential tour operators, journalists, and decision-makers from the DACH region.
"Ruka-Kuusamo is the ultimate year-round outdoor destination, offering thrilling adventures in every season. From skiing under the Northern Lights in winter to hiking, rafting, and wildlife exploration in summer, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With a strong commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly tourism, Ruka-Kuusamo ensures that nature and adventure go hand in hand — all year long!” states Matthias Aßmann, CEO of Mandel Consulting and jury moderator.
The award is a significant recognition of Ruka-Kuusamo's commitment to high-quality and responsible tourism.
“We are extremely proud of this recognition. Ruka-Kuusamo is a pioneer in nature tourism, and this award reinforces our position as a top destination worldwide. We have invested in year-round tourism for years, and one-third of our visitors come during the shoulder season!" says Janne-Juhani Haarma, CEO of the Ruka-Kuusamo Tourism Association.
The competition has been held annually since 2018 and has established itself as one of the most prestigious tourism awards in Scandinavia.
"This award will increase Ruka-Kuusamo’s visibility in the German-speaking markets and attract even more visitors to experience our region’s diverse, year-round outdoor activities”, Haarma adds.
As a prize, Ruka-Kuusamo will also receive a gift card of 4 000 euro, sponsored by Outdooractive, one of the world's leading outdoor and hiking platforms.
Local Entrepreneur Recognized as a Pioneer in Accessible Tourism
Heidi Savolainen, CEO of Adventure Apes, received a special award for her groundbreaking work in accessible tourism. The special Impact Prize was awarded to Savolainen in recognition of her leadership in promoting accessibility in adventure travel.
"The Impact price goes to Heidi Savolainen for her groundbreaking work in creating accessible adventures for people with disabilities. Heidi is a true pioneer in breaking down barriers, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to experience the outdoors through innovative and specifically designed activities. Her efforts are not only changing lives but are also raising awareness, making a lasting impact on inclusivity in outdoor recreation. Heidi's dedication and passion make her a powerful voice for those who are often overlooked. The jury thinks, she truly deserves this recognition for her outstanding contributions to accessible adventures", says Aßmann.
This award is a valuable addition to Sustainablity Ambassador 2025 title, granted to Savolainen by Visit Finland this year.
"I am truly happy that my work is being recognized internationally, as this helps raise awareness of accessible tourism. Everyone should invest in equality and make activities more accessible. It doesn’t really require anything more than an open-minded attitude—because people with special needs are not more demanding than anyone else. Travel experiences should always be tailored to individual needs, which is already common practice in the tourism industry”, says Heidi Savolainen, CEO of Adventure Apes.
