Billnäs Gård – a seamless blend of wellness, creativity and adventure

Billnäs Gård has been a meaningful and dream project for its owners since the renovation of the property began in 2021. Applying a sustainable approach has been a priority throughout, using natural materials and making long-lasting aesthetic choices to save this cultural landmark for future generations.

Image credit: Billnäs Gård

Dating back to 1912, the property features six bespoke guestrooms each with a private bathroom, accommodating up to 12 guests in total. During the summer months guests can spend the night in a cosy cabin by the river, offering a more private and rustic experience. A lush garden boasts a heated saltwater pool providing a picturesque setting for complete relaxation and rejuvenation at the rivershore. A subterranean spa-cum-meditation space features soft heated concrete benches, a sauna, and a herbal bathtub housed within a candlelit historical structure – all vibrating as a binaural healing soundscape.

The programme of holistic experiences provides guests with support to slow down, reconnect with themselves and enhance their wellbeing. The aim is for guests to come away from this holistic space feeling better equipped to face the challenges of daily life.

Image credit: Billnäs Gård

The property presents a harmonious blend of sustainable Finnish design principles delivered in natural colour schemes and materials. A mix of vintage and second-hand pieces is complemented with modern furniture classics. William Morris wallpapers juxtapose Alvar Aalto design icons, while locally woven rugs and fabrics lend a soft feel. Contemporary Finnish designer Pasi Kärkkäinen-Tunkelo contributes unique brass glass lighting that casts a soft glow across living spaces. Bedroom mattresses are handmade in Finland from natural materials such as local wool.

Owners Taina Snellman-Langenskiöld and Chris Langenskiöld have lovingly restored Billnäs Gård with a view to keeping as much of the original details as possible. Natura room’s bathroom was designed around a pre-existing fireplace. Blue room has been designed with children in mind and features a small playroom, pre-loved toys and a kitchenette in vibrant colours. The Nest room, with its river view, private balcony, and bathtub overlooking the garden, exemplifies the property’s commitment to aesthetic and sensory delight. Taina firmly believes that creating beauty through living spaces can make us feel happier and help us achieve our best.

Healthy, home-style Finnish-French cuisine makes use of local and seasonal produce for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Chris and Taina’s philosophy of ‘simple is beautiful’ focuses on using clean, pure ingredients and flavours that celebrate the essence of the region.  Cooking courses are available to help guests savour the slow life and appreciate the joy of each bite in the property’s sun-filled dining spaces. Additional healthy flavours are available seasonally, from wild herbs via tea made with foraged leaves and a chaga morning shot.

Image credit: Billnäs Gård

Billnäs Gård goes beyond the traditional hospitality concept by incorporating design into both the property and its curated guest services like The Life Academy programme (Livsakademi). This unique holistic initiative spearheaded by Chris also works in collaboration with his wide network of experienced wellbeing professionals from different fields. Through events, retreats, rituals, and life design tools, The Life Academy promotes mindfulness, harmony and sustainability with immersive experiences such as yoga, horse riding, art and design.

Image credit: Billnäs Gård

Throughout the seasons life at Billnäs Gård centres around immersive, nature-focused experiences, from forest walks and golf to backcountry skiing just five minutes away. Take time for mindful walks through the village, or stand-up paddleboarding along the river; explore nearby hiking trails or partake in outdoor activities like picnics and fishing. The property is also home to two beloved donkeys, Lugn & Ro (Calm and Peace), adding to the charm of the surroundings, plus an old fire station currently being restored, and stables across the road where guests can engage in art classes, craft workshops, and gardening sessions.

During the booking process, guests can fill out a survey to help the team understand their personal development needs in the pursuit of holistic balance and wellness. Based on their responses, guests can cherry-pick up to three recommendations regarding nutrition, movement, treatments or workshops.

Main image credit: Billnäs Gård