Window to the Landscape Between the Pines: A Modern Version of the Lappish storehouse Offers a Luxurious Overnight Stay

Nestled among the central Finnish pines at Kivijärvi (Rocky Lake), a peculiar sight rises. This dark cabin, with its sleek Scandinavian lines, appears almost floating between the trees, suspended halfway between the roots and the treetops. A comparatively light-structured pillar supports this grand spectacle, evoking images of a majestic bird feeder. However, this cabin is much more spacious and functional, offering ample ceiling height and all the high-end amenities required for luxurious accommodation. Welcome to the modern Niliaitta!

Traditionally, a Niliaitta or an elevated storage hut was used to store equipment and food high up on a pole in a small cabin-like shelter to protect from predators and curious creatures possibly raiding essential supplies. Now, at Kivijärvi, humorously by the lake sharing its name, one can stay overnight in this protective structure’s giant, accommodation-designed version.

The Kivijärvi Niliaitta is as large as a substantial hotel room, accessed by gentle stairs. The dark cabin reveals little from the outside and climbing up feels thrilling. Beyond the door lies a small entry space, and inside the cabin, one can walk around a central area, forming two corridors along the walls. Along one corridor is a functional and compact mini-kitchen, complete with a real fridge, electric stove, and dishes.

Opposite, the shower and separate toilet are located along the other corridor, both matching hotel standards. Wow! Electricians and plumbers must have puzzled over how to run pipes and wires up the sole pillar to the attic.

Nearly half of the cabin is devoted to the “bedroom.” A wide, comfortable bed is positioned in the center, with a panoramic window the size of the entire end wall, offering unobstructed views down a gentle slope to the lakeshore. It’s delightful to relax in such a view, letting your gaze wander from the shoreline up to the treetops.

Kivijärvi Niliaitta is a magnificent, nature-close retreat for those who appreciate high-end accommodation. In its elevated solitude, there’s plenty of space to enjoy the scenery, regardless of the weather, and nearby areas like Salamajärvi National Park offer ample hiking and paddling opportunities. This culturally inspired adaptation of the Niliaitta heritage invites reflection on what else we might remember from the past or incorporate into practical use today.

Be Prepared:

• Equipment needed for hotel stays
• Equipment needed for independent hiking or day activities.