Manshausen

• Sleeps: 3 or 4 per cabin
• Bedrooms: 2 per cabin
• Bathrooms: 1 per cabin
• Minimum stay: 1 night

Manshausen is a unique resort and activity centre created by polar explorer Børge Ousland (the first person to reach the North Pole in a solo expedition), with a mission to discover “the harmony between people and nature”.

In these 55 acres that form part of the dramatic Steigen archipelago in Northern Norway, you will feel as though you’ve escaped to an invigorating new world. One filled with endless possibilities, played out on clusters of islands with white sandy beaches, clear light-filled crystal waters and majestic rolling mountains.

Manhausen’s seven modular sea cabins, created by famed designer Snorre Stinessen, have won several well-deserved architecture awards. Five of the cabins are nestled along an old stone jetty, while the last 2 are elevated on a natural ledge and hill, with beautiful views of the surrounding sea and mountains.

Each larch-clad cabin is a true work of art, constructed from natural materials and featuring floor-to-ceiling glass that extends from the island and over the sea, meaning you won’t need to leave the comfort of your dwelling to drink in all that striking scenery. Two bedrooms feature a double bed, a small double and an extra single, and each hut boasts a bespoke-designed bathroom and a corian-constructed kitchen.

Meanwhile, two mesmerising double-storey tower cabins – also created by Snorre Stinessen – take prime position on a beautiful stone pier, facing the shimmering waterfront. A full glass roof and frontage means you can laze in bed and watch the stars, and maybe Northern lights? while the east-facing French balcony is perfect for greeting the sunrise over coffee.

Head to the Main House, a freshly renovated building that originates from the 19th century, for breakfast, reading or simply some much-needed ‘me’ time. Here you’ll find a welcoming kitchen and dining area, together with a second floor library filled with owner Børge’s personal expedition collection…just in case you were feeling inspired! Grab your favourite tome and leaf through it from the comfort of the relaxing seating area, with its open roof and glass front that allows you to imagine everything you read in full colour.

If reading is a little too much effort, why not head for the large hot tub instead? Featuring steps that lead to a fresh saltwater dam, you’ll be able to cool off and heat up completely at will!

At a glance

• Seven individually spaced, award-winning sea cabins that each sleep up to four people, set within the Steigen archipelago in North Norway.
• Brand-new for 2023 are two double-storey tower cabins with full glass roofs, each sleeping up to three people.
• There is a separate house for reading, relaxation and dining if required (the cabins are self-catering), along with a 4-person hot tub and spa area.
• Fly from Heathrow to Bodø via Oslo. Ferries travel from Bodø to the island of Nordskot, where a Manshausen boat will transport you to your accommodation.
• Nordskot houses a small grocery store and a coastal museum, with shops and cafes also found on the surrounding islands.
• A wide range of activities, including sightseeing, skiing, hiking, sailing and climbing, can be arranged directly by the resort.

Features

• Family Friendly
• Hot Tubs
• Seaside Breaks

More information

Adventure lovers will indeed have found their Nordic heaven at Manshausen. Here you’ll find opportunities for skiing, hiking, climbing, snorkelling, kayaking, swimming and diving (to name just a few!), all of which can be organised directly by the resort. Knowledgeable guides are on hand to inform you about the myriad flora and fauna to be found on the islands, not to mention the swooping sea eagles you’ll meet along the way.

Fishing is of course a Manshausen staple, while history buffs will revel in the Viking-era and World War Two tours available, along with the coastal museum on Nordskot island. For an extra treat or celebration, gourmets can indulge in a seven-course tuxedo dinner on the nearby island of Grøtøy.

By night, return to your glorious sea or tower cabin to watch twinkling stars emerge in the cool, clear sky…and on some evenings you may even find the northern lights will make their stunning appearance. In spring and summer, you’ll be treated to ‘white nights’ instead, as from mid-May right through to July, night never falls at all!

In all, with such a heady mix of sea, mountains, beauty and tranquility to be found at Manshausen, you could well find that you have finally discovered paradise on Earth.

Things to note

There is a hot tub available for up to 4 people which can be rented. Boats, kayaks, bikes, diving equipment, fishing equipment, snowshoes can all be rented locally. No minimum stay, but to really experience Manshausen 2-3 nights minimum is recommended. In order to reach Manshausen, you should fly into Bodo (BOO) airport (via Oslo) and from there take a fast boat, which takes about 1h30 m to arrive to Nordskot. Upon arrival at Nordskot, Manshausen will pick you up for the short boat ride to the sea cabins.  Image credits:  Steve King