Scandinavia’s sprawling forests and pristine scenery combine to provide the dreamiest of escapes for log cabin holidays. In this sparkling wilderness, whether winter or summer, there’s always a cosy lodge to return to to enjoy the feeling of nature, even indoors. Explore magnificent landscapes before returning to evenings spent by the fire or in lodges with hot tubs, tucking into local delicacies.
Traditional Scandinavian lodge holidays
If it’s rugged mountain scenery you’re after, look no further than Laktajakko. Tucked away in Sweden’s northwestern corner, bordering Norway, you’ll find Sweden’s highest lodge surrounded by breathtaking crags and crystal lakes. Enjoy delicious three-course meals in the middle of nowhere or pack some freshly made waffles for your day’s hike.
For that quintessential log cabin experience, you’ll have plenty of choice. One of our favourites for year-round activity holidays is Sweden’s Sörbyn Lodge, whose timber lodges offer perfect access to the area’s polar wilderness. You’ll be busy skiing, snowmobiling and dogsledding before heading back to roaring open fires and afternoons whiled away in the sauna. Wherever your travels in Scandinavia lead, you won’t be far from a luxury cabin. Even on Iceland’s remote south coast, lodging such as Hotel Rangá take full advantage of their natural surrounds with thermally-heated hot tubs and regional cuisine. Expect to be warmed by hearty stews and fresh salads.
Fjellborg Arctic Lodge, Swedish Lapland
Unique lodges in remote locations
On Spitsbergen – the largest and only inhabited island in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago – you can stay in a 1933 telecommunications outpost. Testament to the region’s expeditionary heritage, it’s reached by snowmobile and was partially destroyed in World War Two. Today, it’s been converted into a luxury lodge where top-class chefs serve smoked seal, whale and halibut all cooked in a range of gourmet European styles. You’ll also be treated to wildlife aplenty with the islands’ inhabitants outnumbered by polar bears.
Dining at Basecamp Isfjord Radio, Spitsbergen
In Greenland, there’s also the designer sensibilities of Ilimanaq Lodge. Here, UNESCO-listed iceberg views are taken in by ultra-modern cabins, all blonde-wood and private terraces. For something equally unique but a touch closer to come, consider Norway’s Malangen Resort. Here, stilted fishermen’s cabins are perched right over a remote fjord, offering a stylish idyll and truly stunning views. Throughout, you can also expect all the usual winter fun of dogsledding, snowmobiling and ice fishing, all under the Northern Lights.
Malangen Resort, Norway (David González Foto)
Luxury lodge holidays
Dotted throughout Scandinavia and the Nordics are a collection of ultra-stylish lodge perfect for that special getaway. And, one of our favourite offerings is L7 Luxury Lodge, tucked away in the wilds of Finnish Lapland. Limited to just seven exclusive rooms, you’ll return from days spent snowmobiling and cross-country skiing to full-board gourmet dining, cosy fires and soaks in a Jacuzzi under the Northern Lights.
L7 Luxury Lodge, Finnish Lapland
However, for the ultimate in heavenly seclusion, look to Swedish Lapland’s Loggers Lodge. Here, everything is private, from your cabin heated by a roaring fire to the saunas and outdoor hot tubs, where you can sip on champagne. Even your fine-dining meals are prepared by a private chef.
