Our story – The Heart of Arctic Nest

We are Teemu and Míša, a Finnish-Czech couple who met during our university studies in Oulu. Life eventually led us to Helsinki, where we built careers in tourism and hospitality, but we always dreamed of creating something real together—something that would bring people closer to nature again.

In 2022, Teemu accidentally discovered a unique building from his home region up for auction—a former national environment sample bank. It was located deep in the ancient forests of Arctic Lakeland, far from the crowds and noise. The place had a special energy that immediately won our hearts. It felt quiet, raw, and authentic… a place where people could truly breathe again.

We were surprised and thrilled to find ourselves as the winning bidders of the auction.

That’s when everything changed. We left our life in Helsinki and moved to Puolanka.

Together with our two small children and Teemu’s family, we began rebuilding the place with our own hands. Teemu’s father and his twin brother, both lifelong builders, transformed the spaces into warm, welcoming rooms and cottages. His mother joined our kitchen, contributing her years of experience as a cook. As a family, we turned a scientific facility first into a home—and then into a hotel.

A place where people can disconnect from stress, reconnect with nature, and experience the warmth of Finnish hospitality.

Today, Arctic Nest is more than accommodation.
It is our life, our story, and our invitation:

Come as a guest. Leave as a friend.
Your authentic Arctic experience starts here.