How to choose your perfect winter hideaway in the Nordics

The sensational Icehotel is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to amazing accommodation in the far north of Europe. With so many exceptional properties across Iceland, Sweden, Finland and Norway, it can be tricky to choose between them. We’ve compiled this guide to help you select your ideal bolthole for winter based on who you are travelling with and what you want to get up up to while away. One thing you can be sure of, is that all are in great locations for viewing the aurora should nature’s light show put on a display!

So, read on for our recommendations on great places to stay for families, explorers, style-lovers and those looking for a festive escape or coastal adventure this winter.

Icehotel, Sweden

Believe the hype! The Icehotel is quite simply one of the most unforgettable places you’ll ever spend the night. Not only is your bedroom a world-class art installation, but activities include everything from snowmobiling to ice sculpting, mushing your own team of huskies to ice dining. This is one of the world’s most iconic hotels and visiting is about adventure, wilderness, the northern lights and authentic Nordic cuisine.

We’re the Icehotel’s leading worldwide partner – talk to us about planning the ultimate Icehotel break.

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The Treehotel – eight magical grown-up treehouses including a mirror cube and a flying saucer grace this extraordinary arboreal retreat in Swedish Lapland.

Nellim Wilderness Hotel, Finland

Cosseted by the snow-cloaked forests of the Finnish wilderness on the shores of Lake Inari, Nellim offers a variety of cosy accommodation in a serene and peaceful setting. Choose a log cabin with private sauna or perhaps upgrade to an Aurora Bubble so you can gaze at the northern lights from the comfort of your bed. Full board and a programme of activities included ensure excellent value for money.

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Gulo Gulo Villas – the location directly opposite Ranua Wildlife Park makes these two-bedroom luxury villas in Finnish Lapland an excellent choice for a family getaway. Observe wolves, lynx and moose and even have the chance to help feed the polar bears! With winter activities available and plenty of time to relax, share precious experiences with family and friends.

Hotel Husafell, Iceland

This smart contemporary hotel tucked away in wild West Iceland features on our Northern Lights, Glaciers and Waterfalls self drive and combines Nordic style and superb food with those all-important dark-night skies for sizzling northern lights potential. The hotel also uses 100% pure energy. There’s an outdoor geothermal pool to relax in and plenty to do from visiting nearby Hraunfossar waterfall to heading inside an ice cave on Langjokull glacier where you can also snowmobile. Hit the hiking trails or head off on road trips to Snaefellsnes and the Golden Circle.

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Hotel Ranga – rooted in the Icelandic countryside this ranch-style hotel boasts vistas volcanoes, fine dining, outdoor hot tubs and a unique stargazing observatory.

Malangen Resort, Norway

An hour from Tromso and sitting on the waters edge, the beauty of this Norwegian retreat is that all of the its stylish rooms share the same incredible views of Malangsfjord. Choose a sleek and stylish hotel room or opt for a trendy stilted cabin. Combine with Tromso on a weekend escape in search of the aurora, enjoying a host of winter activities and relaxing with picture-perfect views from the hot tub and sauna.

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Brandon Lodge – this log-cabin hideaway on the edge of Sweden’s frozen Gulf of Bothnia, features 15 individual cabins scattered amongst the trees and facing the sea.

Muotka Wilderness Lodge, Finland

Located on Finland’s eastern Saariselkä fells, Muotka Wilderness Lodge, makes a fabulous choice for a magical Christmas escape. Cosseted by tranquil taiga forests, you can do as much or as little as you like here, with a range of activities including reindeer sledging, snowmobile safari and husky sledding. When night falls, cosy-up by the crackling log fireplace before heading outside to seek the northern lights. You may even choose an Aurora Cabin specifically designed for viewing the aurora in comfort.

Decorations and festive lights illuminate the property and there are traditional food and cakes to enjoy. For those travelling with young children, a visit by Santa on Christmas Eve is sure to delight.

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Grand Arctic Hotel – Stay in the charming town of Överkalix, tucked into Swedish Lapland’s beautiful snow-covered wilderness and capture the magic of Christmas with a family visit to Santa’s cabin. Festive fun for everyone!

Beana Laponia

Best make it a long weekend! You won’t want to leave this boutique beauty. Snuggled into the taiga forest of Finnish Lapland, Beana Laponia is a stylish, adults-only retreat, with individually designed rooms, cosy lounge and bar, private sauna and outdoor hot tub. Talk to us about an all-inclusive package with superb cuisine and a host of winter activities.

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Nangu Wilderness Lodge – this adult-only lodge sits on the southern shore of Lake Inari offering breathtaking views and a perfect spot for witnessing the northern lights. High quality accommodation, dining and thrilling winter activities complete the package.

Feeling inspired?

Get in touch with our team to secure your stay in one of these spectacular properties in Sweden, Iceland, Finland or Norway.

Send an enquiry, or speak to one of our Travel Specialists on 01737 214 250 today.