
OUR Story
A Family Business Rooted in Nature
Nature is part of who we are. It shapes how we build, how we welcome our guests, and how we live. Surrounded by the quiet forests of Rovaniemi, in the official hometown of Santa Claus, our resort was born from a shared dream: to create something beautiful, personal, and lasting.
Glass Resort is a family-run company, built and operated by us, Minna and Petri Palkinen, together with our children Eetu, Anna, and Kalle, who each take part in the company. As a family, we share a love of design, architecture, and nature. We spend much of our free time outdoors, enjoying the rhythm of the seasons and the quiet richness of nature. It’s how we stay connected to the landscape we call home.
Our roots here go deep. Petri’s grandparents and great-grandparents lived as so-called “forest Lapps,” earning their living by hunting, fishing, and gathering berries and mushrooms. A few reindeer were kept for work, not for herding, but survival. That connection to the land and its rhythms is still part of our family’s everyday life.
Over the years, our family has grown. Some of our staff have been with us since the very first winter season. Their dedication, skill, and heartfelt presence have become an irreplaceable part of the Glass Resort story. What began as working relationships have grown into bonds of trust and warmth. Relationships that have strengthened the spirit of our family business well beyond our own household.
Petri worked with architect Paolo Caravello to shape the vision and floorplans of Glass Resort, with a strong influence from traditional Sámi kota dwellings. The result is a modern interpretation of Arctic shelter formed by clear lines, steep silhouettes, and open spaces that frame the sky. The interiors, designed by Minna, bring beauty and calm through soft natural tones, warm lighting, and functional elegance that reflects the quiet beauty of Lapland itself.
We care deeply about what we’ve created. We renovate, maintain, and plan ahead, always thinking about how we can improve what we offer and keep it aligned with our values. For us, design is a continuous journey.
Above all, we want our guests to feel welcome. Every stay is personal. Whether we’re arranging a private transfer, a family celebration, or simply preparing the room with quiet care, we want each moment to feel relaxed, effortless, and genuine.
Glass Resort is more than a destination. It’s a reflection of our family, our values, and our love for this place. And we are proud to share it with you.


For more inspiration
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Our Commitment to Quality
Quality is at the heart of everything we do. From arrival to farewell, our goal is to create an experience that feels seamless, genuine and memorable.
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Glass Resort: Story of Craft and Calm
In the stillness of Lapland’s Arctic forest, where the air is the purest on Earth and the sky tells ancient stories in light, lies a place where nature, design, and craftsmanship meet in harmony.