Himos – Central Finland's winter tourism hub is growing and undergoing renewal

Elsi Ojala, the company's CEO, says that the story of Himos began in 1983 when the company was founded. The first slopes opened in December 1984, and since then Himos has grown into one of Finland's largest ski resorts – the fourth largest in terms of visitor numbers, after Levi, Ruka, and Ylläs.

Himos's significant strength is its location. Located in central Finland, the ski resort is only a couple of hours' drive from the capital region, which makes it possible to take day trips from southern Finland. According to Ojala, this is particularly attractive to families with children, who have been the company's core customer base from the beginning.

"It has been important for us to have slopes suitable for skiers of all levels. Everyone can spend the day skiing on slopes that suit their preferences and skill level and then get together during the day at one of the area's many slope restaurants or atmospheric lean-tos," Ojala describes.

Himos currently has 26 slopes and 17 lifts, the newest of which – a 4-seater chairlift – opened on the western slopes in December 2023. The slopes offer a wide range of options, from easy practice slopes and the Lumila area for families with children to challenging black slopes for more experienced skiers. In addition, snow parks offer opportunities for tricks and jumps.

Most visitors come from Himos is known for its reliable snow conditions and well-maintained slopes. The resort has efficient snowmaking systems, which often allow the season to start as early as the beginning of December. The peak seasons are from Christmas to Epiphany, the ski holidays, and Easter. Saturdays are clearly the busiest days in terms of visitor numbers.

Most visitors come from the capital region, but the number of international customers is also growing. Estonians in particular have discovered Himos, as good ferry connections and a short drive make it an easy option instead of more distant ski resorts. Estonians in particular have discovered Himos, as good ferry connections and a short drive make it an easy option instead of more distant ski resorts.

Himos's tourism offering is complemented by restaurants, rental shops, and extensive accommodation capacity. In recent years, new operators have entered the area, and cooperation with the Keskimaa cooperative will soon result in a new apartment hotel. Rinne entrepreneurs have long dreamed of a ski-in ski-out hotel where guests could access the slopes directly from the door. That dream will soon come true when the Break Sokos Hotel Himos apartment hotel opens its doors at the end of 2025.

Although there have been challenges along the way, such as those related to zoning, Ojala emphasizes the importance of cooperation: "It is important that different operators find common ground for developing the area. This creates the conditions for growth in tourism and new investments."

Himos-Yhtiöt has received numerous awards over the years. Last year, during its 40th anniversary celebrations, the company was also awarded the Central Finland Entrepreneur Award. Ojala sees the award above all as a thank you to the entire staff and their long-term work.

"The tourism industry is sensitive to many external factors, especially weather conditions and customer purchasing power. However, it has been empowering for us to see that our investments in the slopes, snow reliability, and customer experience have borne fruit," says Ojala.

Himos is getting ready for the upcoming winter season. When the first continuous frosts arrive, the snow cannons will start up. Every snowflake brings with it the promise of new experiences – and Himos is ready to welcome visitors.