The family behind Sweden's Treehotel is opening Villa Äng, a private residence in Swedish Lapland offering Arctic activities such as forest bathing and dog sledding. Olivia Palamountain reports

Villa Äng, opening in December 2025, is a new concept from the Lindvall family, who pioneered Sweden's Treehotel back in 2010.

The concept represents a shift toward ultra-personalised Arctic experiences in the village of Harads, one hour from Luleå Airport, as the next generation takes the helm of the family business.

The villa features five double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, including a 25 sqm master suite, alongside generous lounge and dining areas offering panoramic views across open meadows and the winding Lule river."Villa Äng is more than just a place to stay - it's a personal invitation to feel at home in the Arctic," the family says. "We've designed every element with heart and purpose, creating a space where guests can truly connect with nature, themselves, and each other."

The concept marks a departure from traditional hotel accommodation toward ultra-personalised Arctic experiences, with each stay including round-the-clock service from a dedicated concierge and personal chef.

The property includes a sauna and outdoor hot tub, taking advantage of Swedish Lapland's pristine natural environment. Activities range from northern lights safaris and dog sledding to forest bathing and riverside dining.

The villa's name, meaning "meadow" in Swedish, reflects both its serene setting overlooking open fields and connection to the surrounding landscape near the Arctic Circle. Construction began in June 2025, with bookings available from autumn.

Annika Fredriksson, chief executive of the Swedish Lapland Visitors Board, views the project as representative of evolving hospitality approaches in the region. "Villa Äng is a great example of how the next generation in the hospitality sector dares to take new steps - while staying rooted in the local and with their heart in nature," she says. "It is precisely these kinds of initiatives that strengthen Swedish Lapland as an internationally attractive, year-round destination."

The move toward exclusive private villa experiences reflects broader trends in luxury travel, where wealthy tourists increasingly seek authentic, personalised encounters rather than traditional hotel stays.

Swedish Lapland has emerged as a premium destination for Arctic tourism, combining Indigenous Sami culture with luxury accommodation and unique natural experiences. The region's location above the Arctic Circle provides extended winter darkness ideal for northern lights viewing and midnight sun during summer months.

Photo credit: @Anna-Karin Landin