Bordering the Urho Kekkonen National Park, this charming log-cabin lodge is tucked away among the vast taiga forests of northern Lapland. It’s ideally poised for catching a glimpse of the famed Northern Lights, and for walks through pine tree woodland, drooping low under the weight of fresh snow. Nearby, there are also plenty of opportunities for winter skiing and summer nature trail ambles.
Eat
It’s a point self-evident that seasons impact heavily on Lappish life. Bitter winters bring short days and heavy snowfall while summers contrast with nights lit up by midnight sun glow. And it’s not just the weather that features dramatic shifts as the Scandinavian diet changes with the seasons, reflected by Muotka’s kitchen. Here, chefs showcase the best in local ingredients on well thought out menus that span from regional delicacies to more recognisable classics. Rooms are booked on a full-board basis, meaning breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in the cost. Meals are either served in the cosy restaurant or out on excursions.
Sleep
Featuring just 26 rooms and suites, this is a truly intimate stay. All are decked out in true rustic fashion with varnished timber panels host to paintings of local rural vistas. For a larger group, considering booking into the two-bedroom suite, complete with living room, private terrace and a kitchenette. However, the Riverside Suites are a particular highlight, featuring private saunas, fireplaces and king-size beds framed by blonde log walls. Lastly, there’s the distinctive Aurora Cabins. Here, queen-size beds are positioned under domed glass ceilings, specially designed not to freeze or mist up. While winter winds whip up temperatures of –30°C, you can lie back to starry vistas and perhaps even a private view of the Northern Lights.
Do
This being Finland, you’ll have a choice between a veritable menu of saunas. While the main lodge features its own, there’s also a riverside offering along with a cosy smoke sauna as well. Although, with such a wide range of activities on offer, you’ll be spending most of your time out of doors on trips designed to offer you an authentic insight into life in Lapland. Perhaps take a snowmobile out to a nearby reindeer farm where you can enjoy sleigh rides, lassoing practice sessions and learn about the cultural importance of this age-old husbandry tradition. Then, continue on for fireside picnic lunches, husky safaris and cross-country ski treks. Round the day off with an evening Northern Lights tour.
