Tailor-made design-led escapes in Norway’s island wilderness
Manshausen Cabins
@ Manshausen Cabins
@ Manshausen Cabins
Experience unique accommodation at the Manshausen Cabins over-hanging the Norwegian Sea. A joy for animal lovers, the 55-acre island where you will find Manshausen, is home to Europe’s largest colony of sea eagles, while the fjords are teeming with marine life. In summertime, the Midnight Sun creates a 24-hour surrounding of sun and light, while the winter experience affords unobstructed views of the Northern Lights through floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the Steigen Archipelago from the luxury and comfort of the cantilevered cabins.
Why Stay at Manshausen?
Floating between sea and sky in Northern Norway, Manshausen’s award-winning glass cabins invite you into nature, without leaving comfort behind. Designed by explorer Børge Ousland, this island retreat redefines what it means to go off-grid, combining architectural brilliance with raw, immersive beauty.
Your Island, Your Way
Let Off the Map Travel shape your stay to your flow, kayak at sunrise, hike to remote peaks, or simply lie in bed and watch the tide. With just a few guests staying there at any time, every experience is intimate, bespoke, and deeply connected to nature.
Expect:
- Striking, minimalist cabins with full-wall sea views
- Island atmosphere with rugged terrain and calm waters
- Guided or self-led outdoor adventures
- Chef-prepared meals featuring local seafood and foraged ingredients
Tailor-Made Experiences May Include:
- Kayaking, paddle boarding or snorkelling in pristine waters
- Private hiking routes mapped to your ability and desire
- Fishing, foraging, or sea-to-table meals, hosted by local chefs
- Aurora or midnight sun viewings from the warmth of your bed
Redefining Luxury in Coastal Norway
At Manshausen, luxury is elemental—crafted from glass, granite, salt air, and silence. With Off the Map Travel, we take that setting and shape it to your sense of wonder.
Itinerary Inspiration in Fjord Norway
We can personalise your stay and craft the perfect itinerary for you. Here are some examples of how we combine this accommodation with local experiences and give you a taste of the best.
Magical Arctic Adventure in Tromsø: Whales, Huskies and Sami Culture
Discover Tromsø in winter with whale watching, husky sledding, Sami culture and chances to see the Northern Lights on this magical Arctic adventure.
From Stockholm to Swedish Lapland
A luxury journey from Stockholm to Swedish Lapland combining Sámi culture, Arctic wilderness, Northern Lights and slow Nordic living.
The Arctic Hideaway
Secluded island cabins, sauna, kayaking, wildlife safaris and Northern Lights—discover The Arctic Hideaway for an intimate fjord escape.
Oslo and Tromsø Summer Sightseeing
From Oslo to Tromsø and Lyngen, discover Norway’s summer with fjord safaris, hikes, biking, local food and Arctic luxury stays.
Drive the Fjords in Norway
Highlights include a private boat cruise to Flatflesa Lighthouse and panoramic drives through the Sunnmøre Alps and a helicopter transfer.
A Michelin Keys Journey Through Norway’s Fjords Mountains and Culture
A luxurious Michelin Key journey through Norway’s fjords mountains and culture featuring private experiences gourmet dining and elegant hotels.
A Nordic Christmas Adventure from Oslo to Arctic Lapland
A festive Nordic escape from Oslo to Arctic Lapland featuring Northern Lights, Sami culture, snow adventures and an unforgettable igloo stay.
Oslo, Bergen and Lofoten Summer Escape
Norway luxury: Oslo design, Bergen fjords and mountain views, plus a private driver and spa experience in the dramatic Lofoten Islands.
Festive Fjord Adventure in Norway
With boutique accommodation, this holiday offers a blend of festive charm, winter adventure and tranquil fjord-side luxury in Norway.
Family Friendly Fjords Adventure in Norway
Family friendly journey through Norway’s fjords, forests and villages with scenic rail, cruises, farm visits and unique cultural experiences.
Scandinavian Capitals and Norwegian Fjords Escape
A stylish Nordic journey through Stockholm, Copenhagen and Fjord Norway with canal cruises, Viking heritage and scenic rail travel.
Iceland and Scandinavia Grand Discovery: Volcanoes, Fjords and Nordic Capitals
Discover Iceland and Scandinavia on a luxury journey featuring volcano tours, glacier hiking, Nordic cities, fjords and the Lofoten Islands.
Grand Rail Journey Through Denmark and Norway
A refined no fly Scandinavian rail journey through Copenhagen, Oslo, Bergen and Aurland with fjords, culture and Nordic wellness.
A Family Fjord Adventure in Norway
An active family journey through Norway with fjords wildlife cycling ziplining and unforgettable Arctic landscapes.
Autumn Fjords and Auroras
Fjord cruises, glacier walks and Aurora skies — this luxury autumn journey reveals the best of Norway from Oslo to the Lyngen Alps.
Luxury Fjords Travel Through Western Norway
A slow luxury journey through Norway’s fjords with private cruises, scenic railways, fine food and historic hotels.
Norwegian Fjords, Waterfalls and Flåm Railway
Norwegian fjord adventures, meticulously crafted for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
A Nordic Winter Escape Through Sweden and Norway
A winter journey through Stockholm and Norway’s fjords with ski touring wellness dining and unforgettable alpine scenery.
Luxury Ålesund and Fjord Hideaway
A luxurious journey through Oslo and the fjords with exclusive activities, iconic landscapes and premium boutique stays in Norway’s most scenic region...
Autumn Colours in the Nordics
Panoramic ocean views, explore hidden fjords by private boat, and unwind in an elegant hillside retreat.
Norway Fjords and Arctic Adventure: Oslo to Lyngen Alps Escape
Explore Norway from Oslo to the Lyngen Alps with fjords, food tours, rafting, kayaking and scenic rail journeys in one seamless trip.
Grand Norwegian Fjord Tour
Welcome to Bergen - the Gateway to the fjords!
Luxury Oslo Fjords Adventure
Luxury journey through Oslo, Bergen and the fjords with private hikes, gourmet picnics, boutique hotels and unforgettable scenic travel.
Norway Uncovered From Fjords to the Arctic Circle
A family adventure through Norway’s fjords and Arctic landscapes featuring scenic rail journeys, fjord cruises and Lofoten experiences
A Luxury Journey Through the Fjords in Norway
A luxurious journey through Oslo and the fjords with exclusive activities, iconic landscapes and premium boutique stays in Norway’s most scenic region...
Tromsø and Malangen Winter Escape
Explore Tromsø and Malangen by snowshoe, sled and snowmobile, with Arctic wildlife, Sami culture and Northern Lights at every turn.
An Adventure Beneath the Aurora: Norway's Fjords, Cities and Arctic Wilderness
Luxury Norway adventure featuring Oslo, Bergen, fjords, husky sledding and unforgettable Northern Lights experiences.
Luxury Norway Fjords Journey from Oslo to Bergen
Luxury Norway journey from Oslo to Bergen featuring fjord kayaking, glacier views, historic hotels and authentic cultural experiences.
Arctic Fjords and Nordic Flavours
An active family journey through Norway featuring fjords, wildlife, kayaking, scenic drives and historic stays from Lofoten to Bergen.
Norway and Sweden Summer Tour
Discover the richness of Scandinavian summer on this curated journey through Norway and Sweden.Explore More Options in Norway
Let us tailor your dream journey through Norway’s dramatic landscapes. From cruising deep fjords to staying in remote luxury lodges above the Arctic Circle, your tailor-made adventure could include dog sledding, sea kayaking, or riding the world-famous Flåm Railway. Combine natural spectacle with cultural depth – Viking history, Sami heritage, and local cuisine await. With our first-hand insight and passion for exploration, your Norwegian escape will be unforgettable.
Hotel Victoria, Stavanger
A sanctuary has never felt so comfortable and secluded, yet connected
Sommerro House
Cosy spaces, lavish suites, decadent rooms with rich art deco details
Hotel Charmante, Bergen
A Parisian Dream in the Heart of Bergen.
Juva Cabin
Experience the wilderness, with the spectacular landscape of Svalbard
Basecamp Hotel
Steeped in Svalbard heritage, a taste Arctic life with raw-edge charm
Hotel St Elisabeth, Tromsø
A unique, luxury hotel in the heart of Tromsø, premium comfort, with a rich history
The Thief
A sanctuary has never felt so comfortable and secluded, yet connected
Lindesnes Havehotell
At Havhotellet, every stay is shaped by sea air, sky and natural beauty.
292 Aurland
Boutique historic farm-hotel, mountains, waterfalls and fjord views
Radisson Blu Polar Hotel Spitsbergen, Longyearbyen
In the heart of Longyearbyen, majestic snowy peaks & glistening glaciers
Bergen Børs Hotel
Right in the heart of Bergen, with impressive painted vaulted ceilings
Malangen Resort
Malangen Resort on Malangen Fjord, where Arctic peaks and skies meet. A tailored Norwegian escape of adventure, wellness and calm.
Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel
The World's Northernmost Igloo Hotel, a once-in-a-lifetime experience
Solstrand Hotel & Spa
Boutique Spa Hotel Outside of Bergen, mountains, waterfalls and fjord views
Nusfjord Resort
A secluded valley stretching toward the sea, a quaint fishing village
Hotel Aurlandsfjord
Boutique historic farm-hotel, mountains, waterfalls and fjord views
Svinoya Rorbuer
The perfect base to stay while exploring the unique Lofoten Islands
Villa Efjord
Arrive in style by helicopter, and dinner curated by your private chef
Hattvika Lodge, Rorbuer Fishermen's Cottages
Historic fishermen’s cottages with views out towards the Norwegian Sea
Elva Hotel, Voss
Opus XVI
Immerse youself in the remarkable life of composer Edvard Grieg in Bergen
Scandic Narvik
Panoramic views of Narvik and the surrounding mountains from the sky bar
Storfjord Hotel
On Norways west coast, your gateway to unforgettable holiday adventures
Fjærland Fjordstove Hotel
Lake Suldalsvatnet, where architecture, local cuisine and Norwegian landscapes meet
Clarion Hotel The Edge
Northern Lights, whale safaris and the Arctic Cathedral on your doorstep
Lofoten Links Lodges
Facing North towards the Sea, midnight sun, northern lights, and sunsets
Vindlys Luxury Apartments
Luxury private apartments with 360° views of the mountains and fjords
Molja Lighthouse
Upstairs in the circular bedroom lie and watch the boats sail past
Amerikalinjen
A historic hotel at the heart of Oslo, charming contemporary design
Energihotellet
Mid century design hotel above Lake Suldalsvatnet, where striking architecture, local cuisine and dramatic Norwegian landscapes meet.
We really enjoyed our Norwegian adventure despite the -22 days! Unfortunately no real experience of viewing the Lights but we did capture a couple of images on our last night – too much cloud otherwise so lots of snow. We really enjoyed the husky lodge – not at all what we had tentatively imagined. Thanks for your assistance, maybe next time we will see the Lights in all their glory.
Andrew
Off the Map Travel was great! Alex helped us plan the most amazing 10 day honeymoon to Iceland. He gave us great recommendations and was so patient with us during the planning process!
Tori
The ease of everything stood out to me. All we had to do was be there at the right time. The dog sledding was the highlight for my daughter and sister. We had the best time! For me, Manshausen was the highlight. We were very lucky and the only guests there for the majority of our stay. The staff was amazing and the food was so delicious. We had moose steak and it was the best meal I’ve ever had.
The cabins were comfortable and we were so lucky to have 2 clear nights where we just sat and watched the northern lights. We were able to get some awesome pictures too.
I appreciate all your time and care with planning our trip! I won’t hesitate to use Off the Map travel for our next adventure.
Kelly
Amy planned a fantastic trip! Everything was very well-thought out. All transfers went smoothly, accommodations were amazing, great restaurant recommendations and the tours were once-in-a-lifetime, can’t book it yourself off the internet experiences. The guides were all fantastic. Communications were prompt and everything worked exactly the way it was supposed to. What a pleasure! Already working on our next trip.
Anonymous
Arctic Retreat was simply magical. Graham and his team were superb. Their entire focus was on ensuring we had an outstanding experience. The accommodation, setting and food were all excellent. The team, experienced professionals, each brought their own personal touch and local nuance. It was faultless. The dog sledging trip directly from Arctic Retreat was also superb. We would return to Arctic Retreat in a heartbeat.
George
I would thoroughly recommend this company. Their planning and advice was spot on. Alex responded to my calls and emails very promptly. I will definitely use them again for future trips.
Rosie
We have loved it so much here that we have extended our stay and will come back to Bjornfjell and stay in one of their cabins until Jan 3 then we are staying in the igloo hotel the night of the 3rd. 😊We added a few excursions this week – we did the whale trip on the RIB boat (wow!), toured the igloo hotel (which is why we decided to book the last night!) and did the reindeer sleigh at Sorrisniva. You were so right, the bonfire excursion was incredible!!It has been an absolutely amazing trip!
Kristen
Fantastic trip to Svalbard which delivered the true Arctic experience we were hoping for. The hotels were excellent and the activities – dog sledding and snowmobile expedition were lead by first class guides.
Top tip! The champagne tasting in the world’s most northerly wine cellar in the exceptional Funken Lodge is not to be missed!
Faith
What an amazing trip we are having. It is incredible. Many many thanks for arranging such an incredible trip.
Giles
Hello Lucy!! Kim and I had a fantastic time in Iceland! Probably one of my top 3 trips I’ve ever taken!
It was everything we asked for and you did a wonderful job coordinating it all so beautifully!!
Thank you very much and we will contact you again when we get ready to plan our trip to Norway and Lapland!
Doreen
Well-organized trip to Norway and Svalbard with great accommodations and activities. Gwen was communicative and responsive to requests. Highly recommend!
Russell Snook
We originally hired Off the Map Travel in 2020 to set up a trip to see the Northern Lights. That didn’t happen, thanks to COVID. But, we persisted and in March of 2023, we took a 16-day trip that included both Iceland and Norway. IT WAS MAGICAL! Off the Map took care of everything! We were pampered at every stage of our trip. The people they hired and the activities they planned added up to a trip that will set the standard for any we’ll ever take in the future. Alex and his team were fabulous! We recommend them without restraint!
Jim & Kris