t doesn’t get much more remote and nature-immersive than at this uber-luxe lodge in more than 300 hectares of pristine Arctic Circle forest in Finland. Few places are more ideal for unplugging your devices and switching off entirely.
As if that wasn’t enough wholesomeness right there, the resort has its own cutting-edge spa and health clinic with wilderness views, where you can sink into a state-of-the-art, Finnish-designed ‘cold pool’ as you would a hole in a frozen lake (a ritual that is part of a traditional sauna bathing session). The space also has also a custom-built swimming pool with a resistance current like that used by Olympic athletes, an alfresco hot tub, treatment rooms, a traditional log-lined Finnish sauna, and a cabin for fireside relaxation and yoga sessions.
Your stay at the lodge is on a fully bespoke basis, so you can decide exactly what you want your escape from the world to look like. A private chef is part of the package, as are some drinks, butler service, and daily housekeeping. Again, food will be tailored to your needs, but expect full-on Arctic cuisine based on ingredients that grow naturally in the region, hand-selected by the chef.
The blissfully secluded setting deep in pine forests makes Octola the perfect option for those who like being fit and active in the great outdoors. An itinerary may include Northern Lights hunting with your guide (there’s a good chance of spotting them between the end of August and April) and a guided mental health walk, followed by a yoga session with meditation and singing bowls, and a classical massage in the spa.
Other winter activities include snowshoeing, off-piste and cross-country skiing, sledging, ice swimming in the private lake, and e-snowbiking. After all that, you’ll probably want to seek sanctuary in front of the flickering hearth in the lodge’s deliciously cosy Karhu (‘Bear’) Bar, built with forest stones, with hand-carved wooden walls, fur-lined seating, and a menu of soothing comfort food that will keep your serotonin levels high. Your two-bedroom villa is also a glamorous nest, with its own sauna and outdoor Jacuzzi and a prime position for spotting the Aurora Borealis through its picture windows.
Lastly, you’ll get the feel-good factor from Octola’s environmental and social sustainability credentials – this is no less than the first accommodation in the Arctic and Nordics to have a negative carbon footprint thanks to its use of wind-generated electricity, geothermal heating, water from its own spring, and locally sourced food.
To book your wellness break at the Octola Private Wilderness, call your Travel Counsellor today.
Swap everyday routines for sunshine, lakeside swims and easy family days with this 14 night summer escape to Lake Garda in northern Italy. Based at the popular Bella Italia Resort in Peschiera del Garda, this holiday is designed for families who want plenty to do and flexibility to enjoy each day at their own pace.
Two weeks, two of the world's best resort destinations, and a trip that works for every age in the family. This itinerary covers Disney World and Universal Orlando back to back, with flights from Dublin and park tickets for both included. If you've been thinking about Orlando, this is the one to do.
We understand that recent developments in the Middle East may be causing uncertainty if you are travelling or planning on travelling to, from, or via the region. Your safety and wellbeing remain our priority. Our support teams and Travel Counsellors are monitoring the situation closely and working directly with airlines and suppliers to support anyone affected. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions. We’ll continue to add to these as the situation develops, to ensure we're providing you with the most up-to-date information and support.
