Winter Magic: The World’s Most Beautiful Snowscapes
From the snow-covered forests of Finnish Lapland to Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, these exceptional retreats offer a more secluded vision of winter, where extraordinary design, private adventures and exceptional hospitality become part of the experience.
OCTOLA Private Wilderness
Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland
Deep in the forests outside Rovaniemi, OCTOLA Private Wilderness offers an unusually remote interpretation of Lapland. The entire experience is centred around a secluded wilderness retreat, with bespoke Arctic adventures including husky sledding and Northern Lights excursions. Here, the appeal lies in having the vast winter landscape almost entirely to yourself, returning afterwards to the warmth and comfort of an exquisitely designed private sanctuary.
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland
Suspended among the pine forests on the Arctic Circle, Arctic TreeHouse Hotel combines contemporary Scandinavian design with an extraordinary sense of place. Its signature suites are designed around floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a cinematic view across the snow-covered forest and, on fortunate nights, the Northern Lights. Arctic activities can begin directly from the hotel, making it an elegant base for experiencing the landscape without sacrificing comfort.
Deplar Farm
Troll Peninsula, Iceland
Remote and atmospheric, Deplar Farm sits within Iceland’s dramatic Troll Peninsula, surrounded by mountains and open wilderness. It is particularly renowned for heli-skiing, but the experience extends well beyond the slopes, with a geothermal pool, expansive spa and outdoor adventures including hiking, horseback riding and snow activities.
Treehotel
Harads, Sweden
In the pine forests of Harads, Treehotel turns the simple idea of a woodland retreat into something altogether more extraordinary. Each treeroom has been created by leading Scandinavian architects, from the mirrored geometry of the Mirrorcube to the dramatic 7th Room by Snøhetta. In winter, the surrounding forest becomes a world of snow and silence, while Northern Lights excursions and guided wilderness experiences provide another way to discover the landscape.
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
Grindavík, Iceland
For a different interpretation of the Arctic winter, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is built directly into Iceland’s ancient lava landscape. Its 60 suites, subterranean Retreat Spa and private lagoon create an unusually immersive experience, with some suites offering direct access to the mineral-rich waters. Add Michelin-starred dining at Moss and unlimited access to the Retreat Lagoon and spa, and the dark Arctic skies of winter become an opportunity for complete restoration.
