Just 20 minutes from Tampere’s center, Nolla Cabins on Viikinsaari island offers an eco-conscious retreat that blends wilderness with comfort. Five zero-emission A-frame cabins feature panoramic windows framing either lake views or dense forest vistas.
Powered entirely by renewable energy, these mobile cabins provide a low-impact escape where guests can disconnect from daily life while immersing themselves in a protected nature reserve covering 71% of the island. The site is a vital ecological habitat, home to rare flora and fauna.
Their story
Nolla Cabins was developed in 2018 by Finnish designer Robin Falck as an ecological travel concept, aiming to create zero-emission accommodations in pristine natural settings. The project began in partnership with Neste’s Journey to Zero initiative, focusing on renewable energy and minimal environmental impact.
The tent-like A-frame cabins were intentionally designed to blend with the landscape and inspire a camping mindset.
Today, Nolla operates in multiple locations across Finland and beyond, with each site selected to preserve local biodiversity and foster environmental awareness through education and conservation partnerships. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- Nolla Cabins operate on a zero-emission principle, powered entirely by renewable energy through solar panels.
- Designed to encourage conscious consumption, the cabins omit modern amenities, offering a minimalist, camping-style experience.
- The cabins sit within a protected area, where 71% of the land is designated as a nature reserve and home to rare plant and bird species.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The cabins use solar panels for electricity and rely on Neste MY Renewable Diesel to power stoves and heaters.
Pioneer in waste management
- They encourage guests to travel light and follow a “pack-in, pack-out” ethic by taking all personal items with them when they leave.
- The cabins use eco-friendly disposable dishware and utensils to limit waste and follow strict protocols for recycling and responsible disposal, preserving the integrity of their natural surroundings.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The facilities use eco-friendly cleaning products, organic materials, and biodegradable disposable dishware.
Actively protects nature and community
- Nolla Cabins support environmental organizations by donating €5 from every night spent to the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation.
Most Popular Activities Near Nolla Cabins
- Swimming at the beach with sauna facilities.
- Hiking the nature trail around the island with 14 educational signposts.
- Meditation path experiences in the grove.
- Canoeing, kayaking and SUP boarding around Pyhäjärvi lake.
- Fine dining at Restaurant Viikinsaari, Finland’s oldest island restaurant.
- Summer theatre performances and cultural events.
- Customized picnic experiences with local delicacies.
Best Time To Visit Nolla Cabins
- Nolla Cabins are only open between 30 April and 30 September.
- The best time to visit Nolla Cabins in Viikinsaari is when there is a regular boat service and all island amenities are fully accessible, which is between 22 May to 25 August. Check out boat schedule here.
- Peak season runs from June to August, offering optimal weather for swimming, kayaking, and exploring the nature trails.
- May and September provide quieter experiences with pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery.