Polar architectural outpost
Glass-fronted cabins turn a remote Arctic island into a front-row seat for shifting tides, midnight sun, and northern lights.
“cabins with window walls provide uninterrupted views of the 55-acre islet and surrounding Grøtøya Strait.”
What it’s good at
Remarkable
Snorre Stinessen designed glazed timber shelters engineered against Arctic tides and winds.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Also in Wallpaper* and AFAR.
These pared-down larchwood-and-glass structures perch right at the water’s edge, affording vertiginous views through full-length windows from living rooms furnished with mid-century reproduction furniture.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
The 55-acre private island sits in the Steigen Archipelago, surrounded by white sand beaches and sea eagle nesting grounds.
1 of 4
The rooms
Sea cabins cantilever over old stone quays, with glass on three sides framing the open water.
The sauna
A reclaimed slate sauna sits beside a tidal seawater pond with direct steps for cold plunges.
At the table
Angled glass in the historic main house looks toward the water during communal meals of fresh Arctic seafood.
the hotel’s four cabins are faultlessly perched on a series of listed old stone jetties on the quayside, with sweeping views of the island’s rugged landscape…
How it began
Polar explorer Børge Ousland bought the 19th-century trading outpost to create an adventure base in the Arctic Circle.
The app
Like this one? There are so many more.
Swipe any city’s hotels and heart the ones you love. The app gets your taste.
Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.