Don't be fooled – while we love the outdoors, from husky sledding to ice skating and nighttime treks to view the aurorae, what makes a wintry trip to Scandi really worth it is having a cosy, warm and friendly lodge to retreat to afterwards. Here are the five best lodges for restoring your energy in the middle of winter.
Sörbyn Lodge, Sweden
On the shores of Lake Vitträsket, Sörbyn Lodge cuts a dashing figure with its choice of hotel rooms or romantic log cabins, all tucked away in the heart of Swedish Lapland, far from distractions, noise and bustle.
'The lodge is comfortable, fresh & welcoming. Our room had a double aspect view of the frozen lake & forest - just beautiful! It is the staff that make this place special. They are friendly, informative & accommodating. Nothing is too much trouble - they go out of their way to make you feel special & at home. The food is delicious & beautifully presented - the young chef is one to watch out for!' – FleetNikki on TripAdvisor
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Nellim Wilderness Hotel, Finnish Lapland
Timber cabins and family-friendly amenities make Nellim a true wilderness retreat – many rooms come with their own sauna, as well, so you can warm up as the Finns do after a day in the snow.
'Furnished in typical Finnish Lapland style – think lots of pine wood and stuffed animals. Nellim Wilderness Lodge is located deep within a pine forest and its splendid isolation adds a frontier living vibe. The lack of light pollution also means this is a great spot from which to view the Northern Lights.' – Claire Newell on the Telegraph
Lyngen Lodge, Norway
One of the most luxurious options in famously practical Scandinavia, Lyngen Lodge only houses 18 guests at a time, and is built in traditional 'lafting' style so that the exteriors of the buildings blend into the environment.
'Stayed 3 nights as part of their Northern Lights package. Stepping into the lodge felt a bit like staying in someone's home -- well, a luxurious home with beautiful views overlooking the fjord that serves afternoon tea and has a 3-course gourmet dinner every night! The activities were varied and well-organized (I'd definitely recommend the dogsledding in winter). The staff at the lodge were fantastic: friendly, helpful, and passionate about what they do. They continually went above and beyond to help guests and make them feel comfortable. If you are looking for a unique Arctic experience, Lyngen Lodge definitely fits the bill. I'm looking forward to going back again one day.' – klavier_mann on TripAdvisor
Brandon Lodge, Swedish Lapland
The Lulea Archipelago is a fantastic base for outdoor activities, and the Brandon Lodge offers a large range – while also allowing guests their own cabins, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet as much as the companionship of other adventurers.
'The accommodation is a traditional-style Swedish lodge off the Lulea archipelago and the frozen sea and in the middle of the tranquil forest, and boasts 15 lodges for guests. Our lodge overlooks the sea and is warm and cosy – with extra blankets on the comfy beds. The main building is where the meals are served, and tonight a mouthwatering festive feast awaits us. From champagne and Arctic Caviar, to home-smoked moose meat and salmon, and dried reindeer meat. They also cater for vegetarians, including local cheeses, pickled local mushrooms, sour dough bread and local delicacies – which is just as well as there are no shops or restaurants for miles.' – Karin Ridgers on Mail Online
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Hotel Rangá, South Iceland
Pine and furs make the decor of Hotel Rangá luxe and stylish, and also true to the local area. But the real perk is to be found int he outdoor hot tubs here, owing to the hotel's location, you can often view the Northern Lights without catching a chill.
'You might catch the northern lights overhead at this high-end, cosy and intimate riverside hotel, which offers thoughtfully decorated suites and modern Nordic cuisine, an hour from Reykjavík. Beds are snug and many rooms have whirlpool baths and views of the active Hekla volcano.' – Belinda Maude on the Telegraph
Want to explore more? Then check out our full range of luxury lodges and log cabins.