Our Story
A Journey From Finland to the New Forest
Tucked away in the quiet woodlands, Suomi Cabins has a story woven through time, starting with a dream carried over the seas from Finland by Helena. As a child, Helena spent her summers in a simple cabin by a lake in Finland, a place she loved. After marrying Richard and settling in England, she continued to visit the cabin every summer, now with her son, Mark. Inspired by these peaceful times, she dreamed of creating a similar retreat in the English countryside. Her goal was to share the calm and simplicity of Finnish cabin life with others.
How A Dream Became A Reality
With her husband Richard and now adult son, Mark, Helena transformed her dream into reality, creating a place where others could also find respite from the world's hustle. The first of the Suomi Cabins to be built was Laatokka, constructed with authentic Finnish wood with the help of family and friends. Its very name, a nod to Lake Ladoga—once part of Finland—reflects the connection to Helena’s Finnish heritage and the serene waters that inspired her youth.
We're Mark, Sibylle, Janina and Niko
As the cabins grew, so did the family around them. After Helena and Richard passed, Sibylle and Mark took on the stewardship of the cabins, keeping the practices established by Mark's parents alive. You may also see their children, Janina and Niko, who contribute their support and enthusiasm to this place whenever they're home.
Living the Spirit of 'Suomi'
Here at Suomi Cabins, the essence of Finland is embedded in every aspect—from the gentle winds whispering through the leaves to the warm glow of the sauna. This is a place to reconnect with nature and discover the calm that comes from a simpler way of living.
A Place to Be, Not Just to Stay
We offer more than just a place to stay—we provide a place to be. Whether seeking solitude, adventure, or a peaceful retreat with loved ones, Suomi Cabins offers an authentic experience that reconnects you with the essentials: each other, nature, and a peaceful pace of life. Join us and create your own memories in this special place where every guest becomes part of our continuing story.
Welcome! We are...
Mark
"Having grown up visiting then living here by the forest, this place has become very special to me, a feeling that I'm glad to share with guests and hear them express. Having guests visit as children and return with their own children years later is very special."​
Sibylle
"One of the greatest joys of calling this place home over the last 20 years has been welcoming both first-time guests and returning guests to the cabins."​
Janina
​"One of the things I most appreciate about the cabins is to connect with friends and family in amongst the beauty of nature and the essence of Finnish rustic charm. Welcome to anyone visiting. I hope you love it here as much as I do."​
Niko
"My favourite thing about Suomi Cabins is seeing people experience Finnish traditions like the sauna for the first time. You might see me around every now and then so I can help with any questions or requests.​"
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