Niehku Mountain Villa

Niehku Mountain Villa Review | Hotels Above Par

"A boutique luxury lodge set on the site of an early 20th-century roundhouse on the Sweden–Norway border more than 120 miles north of the Arctic Circle, this intimate 14-room property blends historic structure and contemporary design—think semi-circular roundhouse walls, natural materials, beiges and soft grays, and a former greasing pit transformed into a glass-ceilinged wine cellar visible from the restaurant. The rooms feel like understated luxury: spacious layouts, soft robes, large showers with strong water pressure, and exceptionally comfortable Hästens mattresses (noted by the reviewer as the best sleep in years); suites add a separate sitting room with an impossibly comfortable couch. Dining is a highlight, with elaborate, multi-course dinners showcasing Kalix löjrom, moose, berries and mushrooms from the Torne Valley, reindeer and grouse from the mountains, and fish and shellfish from the Lofoten Islands, plus a lavish breakfast buffet and thoughtfully packed lunches (ham and focaccia, warming chicken soup, homemade energy bars) for days out. Amenities include a cozy bar for pre-dinner cocktails, a well-stocked and spectacular wine cellar with generous pours, a gym, a restorative sauna, an excellent massage therapist, and curated summer hiking retreats led by knowledgeable guides (the reviewer specifically praised a guide named Andreas for his expertise and pacing). The small size fosters highly personal service—staff are attentive and accommodating, the vibe is homey yet sophisticated, and the location provides direct access to hiking in summer and skiing and northern lights viewing in winter. Practical details: five-star rating, starting rates around SEK 6,795 (~$503) per night, and the closest airport is Kiruna Airport about two hours away by car."