Skýra Retreat in Lapland Offers a Nature-Inspired Luxury in Finland, Blending Nordic Heritage and Wellness by Lake Norvajärvi

Published on November 20, 2025

Opening in December 2025, Skýra Retreat will be a truly unique retreat in the heart of Finnish Lapland. Located on the serene shores of Lake Norvajärvi just outside the Arctic city of Rovaniemi, this ultra-exclusive retreat offers time to disconnect from the demands of modern life and reconnect with the rhythms of nature.

Designed around a philosophy centered on elemental design, Nordic heritage, and the natural rhythm of life, Skýra Retreat offers an immersive experience where every detail is crafted for both authenticity and wellness. Anchoring the retreat is the meticulously restored village schoolhouse of the 1950s, set amidst ancient forests and pristine landscapes. It is a unique property, offering guests the rare opportunity to slow down, indulge in contemplation, and experience the Arctic in its pure beauty.

A Commitment to Authenticity and Wellness

Founder Susanne Hulbekkmo brings a deep commitment to authenticity, wellness, and understated luxury, which has shaped the entire concept of Skýra Retreat. Alongside her, Marjo Saarinen, owner of Design Saarinen, adds a nuanced approach to colour, materials, and nature-inspired aesthetics, ensuring the interiors are as immersive and grounded in nature as the environment itself. Every space, from the restored schoolhouse to the new log suites and spa, is designed to provide both a sense of comfort and a deeper connection to the surrounding wilderness.

The architectural direction by UKI Arkkitehdit, one of Finland’s foremost practices, led by Johannes Jutila and Enni Hukka, brings the retreat’s vision to life. The integration of contemporary design with the original schoolhouse structure showcases the best of Finnish craftsmanship, combining tradition with modern luxury. The carefully selected local talent has not only ensured the building maintains a deep sense of heritage but also reflects a new wave of Finnish design, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a luxury retreat.

A Place Where Finnish Heritage Meets Modern Luxury

The architecture and interiors of Skýra Retreat showcase a beautiful dialogue between Finnish heritage and modern luxury. Drawing inspiration from the mid-century period when the original schoolhouse was built, the rooms, spa, and main building incorporate materials and shapes that evoke both classic and contemporary interpretations of Nordic design.

Wood, a staple in Finnish design, features prominently, creating warmth and connection to the surrounding forest. At the same time, playful patterned wallpapers—an authentic nod to Finnish interiors—bring life to the spaces, especially within the Old Schoolhouse. This space celebrates the Finnish resourcefulness of the post-WWII era, when log construction was often concealed beneath layers of cardboard and wallpaper. Today, the exposed logs stand as a testament to the country’s creative spirit and design ingenuity, offering guests a living example of Finnish heritage.

Exclusive Accommodation for an Intimate Experience

Skýra Retreat offers a small-scale, intimate experience with just four distinct room categories. The design of each suite is inspired by Nordic traditions but elevated with the comforts of modern luxury.

• Grande Suites: Located within the historic schoolhouse, these suites feature hand-restored log walls, private saunas, and freestanding bathtubs. The bespoke details, like the champagne button for spontaneous indulgence, make these suites perfect for those seeking ultimate relaxation.
• Log Suites: Inspired by the classic Finnish cabin tradition, these contemporary villas offer a fireplace lounge, sauna, and a private terrace with direct access to the forest. The lofted spaces are ideal for yoga or quiet reflection, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outdoors in.
• Teacher’s Chambers: These four unique apartments were once the school’s staff quarters and have been reimagined as warm, characterful suites. Guests can unwind with a curated selection of books, enjoy cozy reading corners, and gather in the spirit of the past.
• Private Lakeside Villa: The ultimate in privacy, this three-bedroom villa sits on the edge of the lake, offering breathtaking views. With its own lakeside sauna, private host services, and the option for a personal chef or concierge, this villa is perfect for those seeking an exclusive retreat experience.

Culinary Excellence Rooted in Finnish Tradition

Dining at Skýra Retreat is an experience defined by the principles of Nordic simplicity and seasonality. The retreat’s culinary philosophy blends French techniques with a deep respect for local ingredients. Menus change with the seasons: in winter, the focus shifts to preserved goods, while daily selections of fish and meat are sourced from nearby producers.

The retreat’s chefs emphasize Finnish resourcefulness, turning fruit peels into cocktail bases and crafting syrups in-house. Every dish tells a story, such as the reimagined blueberry pie, which pays homage to the tradition of children picking berries from the forest and bringing them to the school cook for a late-summer treat. The focus on local sourcing and sustainable practices ensures that every meal is an authentic expression of place.

Wellness in the Arctic: Skýra’s Spa Experience

The spa at Skýra Retreat is a sanctuary that draws inspiration from the Finnish thermal cycle—a journey through heat, cold, and rest. The spa features a variety of thermal experiences, from panoramic saunas and heated outdoor Jacuzzis to invigorating cold plunges and wild lake swims, all designed to rejuvenate and restore balance.

For those seeking an authentic Finnish experience, the Private Folklore Sauna offers a deeply cultural ritual, led by a sauna host. This experience includes traditional incantations, the ceremonial greeting of the löyly (steam), and practices like birch-whisking or a guided cold plunge.

Embracing Nature with Adventure and Exploration

In addition to wellness, Skýra Retreat offers immersive activities designed to connect guests with the natural world. From morning yoga and forest bathing to creative workshops and sound baths, every aspect of the retreat is geared towards enhancing the connection between guests and the wilderness. Guests can also book bespoke adventures, such as snowmobiling or reindeer safaris, through trusted local partners.

Tourism Impact: Enhancing Lapland’s Appeal as a Luxury Destination

The launch of Skýra Retreat is expected to have a significant impact on tourism in Lapland. As a new luxury destination in the Arctic region, Skýra Retreat will attract high-end travelers looking for unique, nature-based experiences. Its intimate, small-scale accommodation and focus on wellness and Nordic authenticity will help diversify Lapland’s tourism offerings, which have traditionally focused on winter sports and wildlife experiences.

Additionally, the spa and wellness offerings at Skýra will introduce new opportunities for the Finnish wellness tourism market, which continues to grow. By weaving local traditions and modern wellness practices into the retreat’s offerings, Skýra Retreat will contribute to the global rise in wellness tourism, positioning Finland as a premier destination for luxury wellness retreats in the Arctic.

A Unique Arctic Escape with a Sustainable Tourism Vision

Skýra Retreat represents a whole new kind of luxury: one deeply connected with nature, Finnish heritage, and body and mental well-being. This retreat in Lapland, intimate in scale, thoughtfully designed, and bound to the Arctic landscape, will no doubt be a truly unique destination for authenticity, tranquility, and a deeper connection to nature and with oneself. Opening in December 2025, Skýra Retreat is positioned to reset the dynamics of luxury travel in the Arctic, creating lasting impacts on the local economy and the future of Finland’s sustainable tourism.