In an industry where terms like exclusivity and privacy are often diluted, a new retreat in Finnish Lapland is making a genuine claim to both. Octola III, opening in December, is a private lodge that accommodates only six guests—and access is strictly by invitation only, through a waiting list. Guests can book one suite, two, or the entire property.
Located 500 metres above sea level on the site of a former radar station within a protected Sámi wilderness area, the lodge is the latest addition to the Octola Private Wilderness portfolio. Designed by Finnish architectural practice UKI Architects under renowned Lappish architect Hannu Voutilainen, the retreat blends contemporary Nordic design with natural materials inspired by the surrounding landscape. Despite its remote setting, it is just a 20-minute private transfer from Enontekiö Arctic Airport.
“With Octola III, we are taking our established concept of ultra-private, quiet luxury to the literal top of the fells,” said Janne Honkanen, founder of Octola. “We have created an environment where guests do not just observe the Arctic; they are entirely enveloped by it. From the thousand-hectare wilderness views to the deep cultural connection with the Sámi people and the measurable purity of the air, Octola III represents an absolute boundary-pushing evolution of experiential travel.”
Panoramic Views and Arctic Spectacles
Perched on one of Lapland's highest fells, Octola III offers sweeping views across Finland, Norway, and Sweden. The elevated position also provides excellent opportunities to witness the northern lights, one of the Arctic's greatest natural phenomena. The retreat is part of a vast private wilderness estate with more than five kilometres of private roads, allowing guests to explore the landscape in complete privacy while remaining immersed in untouched Arctic nature.
Every stay includes a private chef and dedicated host. Wellness revolves around traditional Nordic contrasts between hot and cold: guests can alternate between a wood-burning lakeside sauna and a purpose-built ice swimming pond, then unwind in a private games den featuring billiards, darts, a stocked bar, and even an indoor area for practising suopunki, the traditional Sámi lasso technique.
Beyond the lodge, bespoke experiences are tailored to each group. Options include snowmobile and wilderness excursions, reindeer encounters, northern lights viewing, and visits to nearby Kautokeino, a cultural centre for the Indigenous Sámi people. There, visitors can discover traditional craftsmanship, local history, and gain insight into centuries-old reindeer herding traditions. Larger groups can also combine their stay with the nearby Aurora Radar Station, a highly classified site from the mid-1960s that was transformed into an exclusive Arctic retreat earlier this year.
This ultra-luxury offering comes as Europe's ultra-rich club grows, with Germany leading the increase. Octola III caters to this demographic, but its focus on Sámi cultural connection and environmental immersion sets it apart from other high-end retreats. The lodge's design and experiences are deeply rooted in the Arctic landscape, offering a rare blend of luxury and authenticity.
For those seeking a truly exclusive Arctic escape, Octola III represents a new pinnacle in experiential travel. Its invitation-only model ensures that only a select few will experience its blend of Nordic design, Sámi heritage, and untouched wilderness.
