Invisible Forest Lodge & Spa: A lodge to remember in Arctic Finland

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Invisible Forest Lodge & Spa

Located deep in the forest yet only a seven-minute drive to the city of Rovaniemi, Alon and Olga Robacha’s stunning yet cosy Invisible Forest Lodge & Spa is a one-of-a-kind destination. Incorporating a spa, restaurant and lounge, and a variety of boutique accommodation options nestled on their own Arctic property, the lodge allows guests to experience exceptional peace surrounded by Finnish nature.

Having run various tourism companies in Lapland since 2016, such as Polar Explorer Icebreaker cruises in the Bothnian Sea, the Robachas decided that it was time to create a venue closer to home. “The idea was to create something that was very Instagrammable, but also relaxing,” says Alon. “Many of our guests are nature lovers, so we wanted a place that blended well and almost melted into the forest – so that the trees were emphasised, not taken away.”

As Rovaniemi, known for Santa Claus and Christmas, does not normally have adult-only spaces, the lodge has become a haven for grownups. From mid-June to mid-November, the couple welcome family visits, but from mid-November to mid-March, it becomes a place for adults to unwind and have a break.

Invisible Forest Lodge & Spa: A lodge to remember in Arctic Finland

Waking up to a view of the forest.

Phenomenal spaces for taking it easy

Invisible Lodge offers a variety of luxury accommodation. There are thirteen bijou Invisible Suites, each with their own sauna and hot tub, private deck, room for up to four people, and a cosy sitting area and fully equipped kitchen. One of the most exciting aspects of the suites are their mirror glass walls, which allow the occupant a full view of the surrounding forest, even from the sauna. “With the positioning of each private house, nothing interrupts your view,” assures Olga.
The Aurora Hut is a floating igloo hotel set on a peaceful river, which blends comfort and innovative design. With a private deck complete with fire pit and a panoramic skyline view, the Aurora is perfect for relaxing and enjoying views of the midnight sun.

Invisible Forest Lodge also offers comfortable log cabins made of dried silver pinewood. Featuring a sitting area for up to four, a fully equipped kitchen and dining table, it offers stunning views out of panoramic windows facing the forest and river. There is also a private terrace furnished with lounge chairs and a grill for your enjoyment.

An invisible suite with its iconic mirror glass walls.

Delicious food in a restaurant unlike any other

Besides exceptional places to stay, Invisible Forest Lodge also houses a fantastic restaurant and bar, complete with sauna and hot tub. Guests can begin their evening in the sauna and lounge area, heading out to outdoor hot tubs to refresh. They can then walk straight into the dining area, wearing bathrobes if they choose, to enjoy local delicacies such as reindeer and salmon cooked on hot lava stone. “This is a highlight for many, where guests can cook their own meal right at the table,” explains Alon.

There are vegetarian options as well, also making use of locally foraged ingredients, like chanterelles and berries. For those wanting to enjoy the lodge for an evening, transportation is arranged from Rovaniemi to visit the lounge and restaurant before returning to the city. This makes it especially attractive to larger groups who wish to visit for a party or conference.

A hot tub overlooking the river at Invisible Forest Lodge & Spa.

Unforgettable activities

Invisible Forest Lodge creates extraordinary Arctic experience packages for guests to enjoy, with a thoughtfully curated list that meets a wide variety of interests. Many of the activities involve the outdoors, such as husky dog sledding, snowmobile tours, the Northern Lights, a reindeer safari, and even an icebreaker cruise. Others centre around the lodge itself, like private dining in their glowing dome nestled in the forest, or a visit to the spa for lunch.

The walls of the invisible suite allow a private but uninterrupted view of the surrounding forest.

Above all, Invisible Forest Lodge wants visitors to enjoy the peace and calm that the area has to offer. “People are often surprised by how close we are to the city,” says Alon. “When they arrive, they are amazed by how quiet it is. That’s one of the wonderful things about Finland, and Lapland especially; you’re never far from nature.” Alon and Olga also have a personal investment in their guests’ enjoyment. “The lodge is situated within what is essentially our own backyard. It’s important for us that everyone feels welcome in our space.”