PAN – a masterpiece among the trees

Nestled in the vast forest region of Finnskogen in East Norway, deep pine woods, placid lakes, and dramatic landscapes surround PAN’s three, immersive, treetop cabins. With its visionary Scandinavian design, native wildlife, and rich heritage rooted in ancient folklore, PAN offers guests one-of-a-kind, off-grid luxury living.

Image credit: Even Baardseth

Founded by couple Kristian Rostad and Christine Mowinckel, PAN is set among their private forest estate, by the idyllic Gjessåsjøen lake. Connected to their own farm, PAN was born from a desire to connect others to the tranquility and restorative power of Finnskogen – the storied ‘Forest of the Finns’ – offering modern luxury that coexists harmoniously with nature.

The trio of treetop cabins are set in an elevated position eight metres above the forest floor. Designed by celebrated Norwegian architect Espen Surnevik, the vision was to create a structure that would blend effortlessly into the landscape, leaving the surrounding nature largely uninterrupted. Its impressive design allows the cabins to be anchored to the forest’s natural, rocky ground atop four pillars, preserving the woodland and securing them for any weather condition – able to withstand the force of more than two hurricanes. The design took inspiration from the forest itself while also drawing from North American A-frame lodges, modern power-line structures, and the whimsical architecture of the Moomin houses.

With sustainability at its core, the cabins are carefully positioned to follow the path of the sun, featuring large glass facades that maximise natural light & warmth, while minimising energy use. Blending seamlessly into the environment, the cabins are intentionally non-intrusive – designed so they could be removed without leaving a trace, allowing guests to experience nature responsibly.

Each cabin, sleeping 4-6 guests, is equipped with modern comforts such as heated floors throughout, a kitchen, fireplace, sleek bathrooms with wellness products from Elm Organics, as well as electric car charging and parking. Interiors feature sustainably sourced Scandinavian materials, floor-to-ceiling windows that let an abundance of natural light pour in, and a warm, cocoon-like atmosphere where nature becomes part of the interior ambience. Each cabin has its own dedicated outdoor area and firepit, where guests can take in the fresh forest air and, season depending, glimpse the famed Northern Lights.

For the exclusive use of guests, an outdoor hot tub is located in the forest within PAN’s House with Three Walls, a specially designed forest pavilion where a heated hot tub opens to the sky, framed by three architectural walls, creating a private and meditative space to connect with nature.

One of the greatest luxuries at PAN is silence. In Finnskogen, you can truly disconnect through PAN’s forest bathing experience. Inspired by the Japanese practice Shinrin-yoku, the session allows you to take in the stillness of nature, be present in the moment, and rediscover yourself. Spa treatments can also be arranged with skilled therapists, using only organic and natural products, for the ultimate relaxation in the most peaceful setting.

The project has won numerous international accolades for its unique cabins – including the main prize at the 2019 prestigious European Steel Design Awards – which make an impactful, architectural statement while complementing the surrounding wilderness, reflecting PAN’s commitment to sustainable architecture that both respects and enhances its environment.

Image credit: Even Baardseth

The forest location takes its name from the Finnish group who settled the area in the 1600’s, shaping both its ecology and lore. Known as the “Forest Finns,” these settlers introduced unfamiliar customs, such as ‘slash-and-burn’ agriculture – a method that required deep knowledge of nature’s intricate balance. To local inhabitants, who farmed the land using more conventional practices, this approach was viewed as strange and almost supernatural. Mysticism has therefore always been a part of daily life at Finnskogen, with the art of healing and supernatural powers closely linked to local culture. Guests at PAN are invited to uncover the local area through many carefully curated experiences available throughout the year that connect guests to the unique environment and cultural heritage of Finnskogen.

Eastern Norway lies within the world’s largest continuous forest belt, the Taiga, also known as the boreal or snow forest, which forms the largest terrestrial biome on Earth and stretches across much of the northern hemisphere. In Finnskogen, visitors are immersed in the heart of this vast ecosystem, a place unlike anywhere else in Norway for experiencing rich and varied wildlife, from elk and deer to capercaillie, as well as wolf, bear, and lynx, alongside countless other species and birdlife.

Main image credit: Even Baardseth