With animal prints and bright cushions, the igloos are made for the ‘gram. Vanessa O’Hanlon
If you’ve seen the pictures, you likely dream of staying here. It’s safe to say it deserves a spot on your travel bucket list, and for very good reason.
Nestled under a canopy of twinkling stars, 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, lies the enchanting Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.
Stepping into this world feels almost like wandering into a magical realm, a stark contrast to a typical wilderness retreat set in the heart of Lapland, Finland.
My journey begins with a three-hour bus ride from the capital, Rovaniemi. As I approach Kakslauttanen, I find myself embracing the near-24-hour winter darkness, now a familiar companion. Although it’s only mid-afternoon, I’m already yearning to settle into my cozy retreat.
Seeing this procession of glass igloos for the first time is enough to make your heart skip a beat. Vanessa O’Hanlon
And then it happens—my heart does skip a beat. The sight of the igloo village, glistening under the stars, is surreal. Among the towering pine trees, beams of light illuminate rows of glass igloos, which look precisely as magical as the images I’ve admired for months.
As I step inside, I’m greeted by a tiny bathroom, complete with a toilet and sink. For the intrepid, a shower block lies just outside, inviting those willing to brave the snowy path.
The domes are heated—and hard to leave. Vanessa O’Hanlon
A modest pull-around curtain is the only barrier separating us from fellow igloo dwellers. However, instead of eavesdropping, we’re all gazing skyward, hoping to catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis—all from the comfort of our heated glass bubbles, complete with remote-controlled adjustable beds to boot.
The interior design seems to cater to photographers and Instagram enthusiasts alike, decorated with a stylish zebra-patterned rug and vivid red pillows.
Here at Kakslauttanen, you can choose your adventure—or embrace complete relaxation. Thrill-seekers might try their hand at cross-country skiing, embark on a dog sledding experience, or visit one of the charming reindeer farms. For now, I decide to pursue the latter, even as the temptation of curling up in my transparent sanctuary is enticing.
Adventure seekers can try cross-country skiing, dog sledding, or visit one of the many reindeer farms. Vanessa O’Hanlon
Reluctantly, I brave the chill to make my way to the dining area, where the warmth of a log cabin awaits, alongside a delectable three-course menu. The meal begins with a steaming broccoli soup, followed by fish and crepes—all perfectly complemented by a glass of fine Argentinian wine.
As I settle in for the night, I find it hard to distinguish whether it’s the coziness of the igloo or the magic of the wilderness that lulls me into one of the best nights of sleep I’ve ever had. I wish I could remain nestled in my bubble forever.
Vanessa O’Hanlon is the face of Nine News Regional Southern NSW and ACT.