Sustainable, sleek and incredibly stylish – for those seeking a new Arctic experience, stay in a new cantilevered cabins hanging over the seas of Northern Norway.
The brand new experience, based at the Manshausen cabins, offers a perfect opportunity for visitors to experience the region in both the Arctic summer under the Midnight Sun, and winter to enjoy the Northern Lights. Gaze at the sky through floor to ceiling windows, which look out over the Steigen Archipelago from the luxury and comfort of the cabins.
“Whatever season, the cabins give you a direct connection with the wilderness of this spectacular region,” says Jonny Cooper, founder of Off the Map Travel, the company behind the exciting experience. “There is no better way to feel a part of Northern Norway than watching the spectacular views and wildlife, from your front row seat.”
They’re also perfect for connecting with nature. The 55-acre private island is home to the continent’s largest colony of sea eagles, whilst the fjords are teaming with marine life – providing guests with spectacular location to enjoy the rural surroundings.
The seven cabins, three of which jut out over the water, were the brainchild of polar explorer Børge Ousland. The first person to reach the North Pole in a solo and unsupported expedition, his vision was to create a space for exploring the harmony between people and nature.
Through a strong emphasis of natural materials, the cabins deliver a modern home, -yet equally feel as though they have grown from the earth on which they are sat.
“Manshausen had several owners until I bought the island in 2010. What I fell in love with is the nature, protected islands, islets, beaches, high mountains, midnight sun in the summer and northern light in the winter,” Børge told us. “My background is polar exploration and being relatively active throughout my life a lot of what I like to do can be done here.”
The clean lines and natural design have since seen Manshausen’s cabin designer, Snorre Stinessen, win several prizes at the Architizer A+Awards in New York for the island’s cabins. Constructed, and assembled on site, the prefabricated structures were designed to limit the impact on the pristine environment and highlight the beauty of the landscape.
The island is also home to a restored 18th-century farmhouse, converted into an open kitchen and dining lounge for guests with an expedition library stocked with books from Borges’ personal collection. Luxury travelers can also unwind within two relaxing hot tubs, as well as a salt water pool and a private beach – if the endless wilderness isn’t enough entertainment.
If you’re seeking your next rural travel gem, this is certainly it.
The 4-day 3-night Manshausen Island Adventure itinerary costs from £1495 per person, based on 2 adults travelling on a B&B basis. This includes boat transfers to the Island, accommodation at the Manshausen cabins, snorkeling, rock climbing, hiking, sailing with fishing. Not including flights. To find out more, visit offthemap.travel; call +44 (0) 800 566 8901.