The House of Northern Senses, Luxury Accommodation in Lapland

Located in the heart of Finland’s wilderness, just a stones throw from Ruka Ski Village and Kuusamo Airport, lies the House of Northern Senses. This beautifully preserved manor, once an old schoolhouse, has been transformed into an elegant haven for those seeking a luxurious yet nature-filled getaway. With its idyllic location in the tiny village of Virrkula, the well maintained accommodation offers a perfect mix of tranquillity, adventure and Finnish hospitality. Whether you are looking for a location for Christmas in Lapland or simply a year-round beautiful luxury accommodation in Lapland in the Ruka area, I urge you to consider the magnificent House of Northern Senses. I had the pleasure of being hosted by property owners Timo and Leena, during my stay, who gave me a wonderful taste of their magnificent property and the natural wonders offered in the region.

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At a glance

• Location: Virrkula, near Ruka Ski Village and Kuusamo Airport, Finnish Lapland
• Season reviewed: Autumn (September 2024)
• Best for: Large groups, couples, families, solo luxury travellers, bear watching and hiking enthusiasts
• Accommodation: 8 luxury rooms in a restored manor-style building – suits large groups or multiple couples/families travelling together
• Standout amenity: Lakeside woodfire smoke sauna with lake swimming or ice swimming
• Indoor pool: Yes, year-round
• Northern lights: North-facing front gate – magnificent viewing position from the front door
• Discount: 5% off when booking direct – email info@northernsenses.com and quote PARKERSFROMAUS
• Would I recommend it? Whole-heartedly

A unique stay in a manor-style setting

The House of Northern Senses features eight well-appointed luxury rooms, each designed to cater to various group sizes. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends, the accommodations provide comfort, style and a warm, homely atmosphere. The House of Northern Senses provides a wonderful large group style accommodation option or for those travelling with a number of couples or families. The shared dining and lounge areas create an inviting space for guests to connect, relax and enjoy their stay in the Finnish countryside.

Year-round amenities

Guests at The House of Northern Senses enjoy access to several year-round amenities, including an indoor swimming pool and a traditional Finnish sauna. The standout feature is the lakeside woodfire and smoke sauna, where you can unwind after a day of adventure and then cool off with a refreshing dip in the lake – whether during the warm summer months or after a chilly ice swim in the winter.

Seasonal activities

Virrkula and the Ruka region offers an array of outdoor activities to experience throughout the year, right from the doorsteps of The House of Northern Senses.

Summer

• As the snow melts and the land begins to blossom, the fresh and clear water lake becomes an oasis for swimming, picnicking by the lake and admiring the wandering reindeer that roam freely around the area.
• Hiking, mountain biking and fishing offer peaceful ways to enjoy the stunning landscape and the Finnish sauna experience remains a year-round favourite.
• In the autumn months, bear watching becomes a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to see Finland’s majestic wildlife in its natural habitat.

Winter

• Embrace the cold and take advantage of the provided equipment such as skis, snowshoes, sleds and helmets. The use of traditional kick-sleds is also available for those who want to explore the surroundings in an authentically Finnish way.
• For the more adventurous, ice fishing and ice swimming are must-try experiences, as well as walking across the frozen lake to House of Northern Senses private island.
• The magic of winter in Finland truly comes to life as you witness the northern lights present themselves in the sky. The House of Northern Senses front gate is north facing and the view from the front door is magnificent.
• Guests can also hike through the snow-covered forests or simply warm up in the sauna after a day spent outside.
• Ski at Ruka Ski Village or take on the local cross country ski trails direct from The House of Northern Senses.
• It is hard to go past a Lapland Christmas – a festive season at the House of Northern Senses would be one of the best white Christmas destinations in Europe.

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Explore Finland’s natural wonders

The House of Northern Senses is perfectly positioned for day trips to some of Finland’s most breath-taking natural sites.

• Porontimajoen Tuvat – located just a short drive or nice walk from the House of Northern Senses, this picnic and free camp is idyllically located on the edge of the river along the Bear Trail. From there you can continue walking to Konttainen Summit and back to House of Northern Senses for a 20km walk (approximately).
• Konttainen Summit – A scenic viewpoint that rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
• Riisitunturi National Park – Known for its rolling hills and spectacular views, this park is a hiker’s paradise in both summer and winter. Go here for Riisitunturi National Park tour experiences.
• Korouoma Canyon – Famous for its dramatic rock formations and frozen waterfalls in winter, it’s a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Go here for Korouoma Canyon tour experiences.
• Karhu Kuusamo – Get up close with Finland’s wildlife, including the chance to spot the elusive brown bear and soaring eagles. Go here for Karhu Kuusamo tour experiences.
• Oulanka National Park – With its rushing rivers, forested trails, and abundance of wildlife, this park offers a true taste of Finnish wilderness. Go here for Oulanka National Park tour experiences.
• Karhunkierros Trail – Also known as ‘Bear Trail’, it is one of the most popular hiking trails in Finland, this trail is 82km and weaves through Oulanka National Park.

**If you need help booking any activities from House of Northern Senses, contact Timo or Leena, your beautiful hosts, directly via the website.

From its cosy, well-maintained interiors to the vast, awe-inspiring surroundings, The House of Northern Senses offers a one-of-a-kind retreat in the heart of Finland. Whether you’re looking for an adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, this beautiful manor in peaceful Virrkula promises a truly memorable stay.

Eating out

Ruka Village offers a great range of bars, restaurants and cafes, including a fine dining experience at Tapio. For a traditional dining experience I can highly recommend Rukan Kuksa and for an authentic daytime experience, don’t look past Basecamp Oulanka at the main entrance of Oulanka National Park.

Booking DISCOUNT for the House of Northern Senses

I’m so excited to share that the lovely Timo and Leena have offered our readers and followers a 5% discount when you book directly via email:  info@northernsenses.com. Please quote PARKERSFROMAUS to get the discount!

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Page last updated: May 2026 – Written by Erin Parker, Finnish Lapland travel specialist and founder of Finnish Lapland From Australia for long-haul travellers. All accommodation reviews reflect personal first-hand experience and connections in winter and autumn seasons only.