Want to See the Northern Lights Without the Crowds? Visit One of These Private Island Retreats in Norway

The main building remains the social hub of the island, with its kitchen focusing on local seafood, lamb and reindeer, and a second-floor library overlooking the channel. When winter arrives, Manshausen has an advantage for aurora enthusiasts: The cabin’s floor-to-ceiling windows face directly onto the island’s clearest northern view, meaning you don’t have to step outside, or even sit down, to watch the colors spread across the sky. This place was designed by someone familiar with the polar night and feels purpose-built for viewing all that the Arctic sky has to offer.

Freinvar IslandsFordypningsrommet Freinvar

Freddy Pninslomet FreinvallPhoto: Patsy Aalto

Hidden among the rocks of Fleinvær, Fordypningsrommet is a playground built specifically for clear thinking and creative wandering. Created by composer Håvard Lund, the island’s eco-friendly wooden huts perch precariously on steel columns above the rocks and are spread out just enough to feel like an experimental village. One room for sleeping, one room for cooking, one room for bathing, one room for playing the electric piano, plus njala– A slender birdhouse-style tower inspired by Sami storehouses, built on tree trunks to protect the contents. Spark your imagination in the Sea Breeze Studio, wander the rugged paths, fire up the wood-fired sauna, or prepare a communal dinner in the kitchen to the soundtrack of eider ducks, otters and the occasional passing fishing boat.