Remote Retreats: 7 Norwegian Cabins Embracing the Wilderness

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Norway’s expansive wilderness is home to many isolated cabins where you can escape life for a little while and find some peace. The cabins are often far from their nearest neighbor and remain somewhat true to the traditional style of a “cabin,” but with a few modern twists. Many keep the typical A-frame style in some form and modernize it with floor-to-ceiling windows and an updated interior.

The cabin used to be only for the survivalist living off the land, the weekend hunter or outdoorsman, or the family looking for a rustic getaway. With only the most basic necessities, these structures provided a place to sleep, keep warm and make a hot meal. Now cabins have become a chance for the owner to have a statement piece of modern architecture in a beautiful natural setting. They incorporate every modern amenity that we have grown accustomed to within reach of the great outdoors. Even if you aren’t necessarily fond of the outdoors, they offer a serene getaway from the struggles of everyday life without making you give up any conveniences.

The following seven cabins are an example of some of the cabins that are being built today in the Scandinavian wilderness. Most of the projects are small single-family homes that have been built as a retreat from the occupant’s usual home.

Cabin at Norderhov by AtelierOslo, Hønefoss, Norway

This cabin outside of Hønefoss is situated on a steep hillside and has beautiful views of the fjord below. Because it is relatively exposed to the elements, the architects carefully designed the shape of the house to protect its occupants in the interior and exterior spaces.

Atrium Cabin on Vardehaugen by Fantastic Norway Architects, Åfjord, Norway

This cabin is directly on the Fjord in Åfjord just 115 feet above sea level. It is designed as a retreat for the entire family and has panoramic views in all directions.

1100 msl – Bergsjø | Mountain Cabin by TAKTIL Arkitekter AS, Ål, Norway

Situated 3,609 feet above sea level, this cabin was made for a family that wanted to be as close as they could to the Reinskarvet mountain.

Cabin Vyby Jarmund/Vigsnæs Architects_ JVA, Norway

This project consists of a small, modern cabin in the traditional Norwegian building style. The construction is a prefab modular structure and can easily be placed wherever the user wants it.

Cabin 6by Logg arkitekter as, Balestrand, Norway

Cabin 6 is built with local, traditional materials that allow it to blend into the hillside and decrease its visual impact.

Vega Cottage by Kolman Boye Architects, Gladstad, Norway

The Vega Cottage stands on the small island of Vega close to the arctic circle. It takes its inspiration from the small fishing huts on the same island that have been built to withstand the harsh winter environment.

Rabot Tourist Cabin by Jarmund/Vigsnæs Architects_ JVA, Hemnes, Nordland, Norway

The Rabot Tourist Cabin is one of many DNT cabins that are located throughout Norway for hikers, skiers and trekkers who are traveling through the mountains on multi-day trips.

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