A Winter’s Break at Javri Lodge

There is something quite rewarding about that first warmth from your log-burning fire after an invigorating day of snow filled adventures, and my recent visit to Javri Lodge in Lapland promised a hearty mixture of the two.

Spotting reindeer

Exterior - Javri Lodge

Cosy and welcoming, this wonderful snow-draped log cabin in the frosty wilderness of Finnish Lapland was about to become home for the night, and I couldn’t have been more excited.

Javri Lodge is an incredible chalet style hotel with just 10 rooms and 2 suites. With an exclusive feel, it is the perfect place for couples wanting to get away for a wintery escape.  The lodge’s location means an arctic adventure is right on your doorstep with plenty of activities to choose from.  You can try your hand at cross country skiing, snow shoeing and ice fishing to name just a few.  With large windows looking out across the snowy landscape I quickly learnt that evenings here are best spent curled up on the sofa with a warm drink or a glass of wine, catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights if the weather is kind to you. The relaxing atmosphere at Javri Lodge provides a wonderful place to soak up the magical surroundings and a big plus for me was the swimming pool and sauna area, where you can really warm up in the traditional Finnish way.

Sauna - Javri Lodge

Suite - Javri Lodge

There is a strong focus on the food at Javri Lodge and the chef takes great pride in his delicious dishes which vary according to the local fishermen’s catches. We all sat together around a large table, regaled with outstanding local fare and adventures the day had brought. The lodge is family run with passion and the owners will do everything they can to make your stay extra special. A welcome surprise was the offering of chocolate cake after I’d been for a sauna and swim at around 11pm – this felt like the perfect indulgence and a lovely unexpected treat! It’s the little details like this which make Javri Lodge such a special place to stay.

Lounge and Dining area - Javri Lodge

Pool area - Javri Lodge

On the day of my departure, the owners invited me along on their brisk morning walk through the snow with their huskies, and this personal touch was to prove a lasting memory of an incredible experience. Half way through the walk it was as if they read my mind. They pulled out some toboggans and, regressing to our childhood, we all began charging up the slope to whizz back down again. The surrounding area is so atmospheric and you could just walk for hours trying to take it all in. Unrivalled Lappish experiences that will stay with me a lifetime.

Northern Lights

Snowy Saariselkä