History of Saariniemi Estate

A Rare Living Legacy in Lapland

Saariniemi Estate is one of Lapland's hidden treasures — a peaceful lakeside estate where the past whispers through old log walls and tradition lives on in every detail. The estate was originally founded in 1862 for a forest ranger, and over the decades it witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in Finnish history: the birth of independence, the Civil War, and the devastation of World War II. During the Lapland War, much of the region's rural heritage was burned to the ground — but by a stroke of luck, Saariniemi survived. Charred floorboards in the main house still bear witness to that time.

Yet survival did not mean preservation. For 18 years, Saariniemi stood empty — its buildings weathered, its spirit quiet. When we arrived in 2017, we saw more than just a run-down property. We saw soul, stories - and a rare chance to bring something unique back to life.

We are Merja-Leena and Jari, the caretakers of Saariniemi and the founders of Lapland Deluxe. Our background in education shaped our belief that meaningful experiences grow from authenticity. That's why we chose to restore the estate by hand, using traditional building methods and honoring the original structures — some over 150 years old.

The work has been challenging, but the result is something we cherish: a place that radiates peace, beauty, and deep cultural roots. Our restoration has been nationally recognized, and today Saariniemi welcomes guests from around the world to experience something real.

Our restoration work has been nationally recognized with: 

We live here year-round with our animals, by the forest and lake. Every season brings something new — snow-covered silence, sunlit nights, berry-filled forests. But the feeling remains the same: this is a place where time slows down, nature comforts, and history breathes.

Welcome to Saariniemi Estate.

Welcome to a rare kind of Lapland.