Octola Sets Global Benchmark by Monitoring Clean Air

Octola Private Wilderness, one of the world’s most exclusive ultra-luxury retreats, located in the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland, has become the first destination globally to monitor ultrafine air particles using research-grade technology. Installed on its private estate, this advanced system provides guests with a rare, measurable insight into the purity of Arctic air, long regarded as some of the cleanest on Earth. The technology delivers continuous, research-grade air quality data, a standard typically reserved for academic and governmental monitoring stations.

This represents an evolution of Octola’s founding mission to offer experiences deeply rooted in the healing powers of Lapland’s pristine air and untouched nature. It is a quiet yet powerful reaffirmation of what Octola’s beloved guests have long sensed through their breath and presence each time they return.

A New Standard of Accountability

By actively monitoring and reporting this data, Octola sets a new benchmark for environmental responsibility and guest care.

“Our surroundings have always offered a rare purity. Now, we have the data to prove it,” says Octola’s founder, Janne Honkanen. “Our guests come here to reconnect with nature in its purest form. By measuring ultrafine particles — some of the smallest and most harmful air pollutants — we’re able to affirm the quality of our environment and share this reassurance with our guests in a meaningful, transparent way.”

Octola collaborates actively with leading researchers connected to its unique location, including Northern Lights scientists such as Dr Esa Turunen. Situated in one of the world’s most active aurora zones, where the Northern Lights are visible on over 200 nights a year, Octola offers not only rare and memorable experiences for its guests but also an ideal setting for ongoing scientific research.

This pioneering initiative will extend across the new Octola II, opening in December 2025, with the full Octola Collection committed to enhancing the guest experience while supporting long-term environmental research. Octola, already the ultimate off-grid destination with more than 1,730 acres of private wilderness on the Arctic Circle and bespoke experiences, Octola II offers near-constant silence, natural serenity, and some of the world’s most spectacular aurora borealis displays or, during summer, the surreal glow of the Midnight Sun.

The all-new Octola II Lodge houses five ensuite bedrooms, an in-house spa and three different saunas, in addition to a children’s playroom, a gym, staff rooms, and a Northern Lights-viewing area with glass ceilings and walls. The Octola II Supersuite Villa includes two large ensuite bedrooms, both with their own sauna, bath, and outdoor hot tub.

Introducing Respiro OctolaⓇ — A Key to Longer Lifespan

As an extension of this commitment, Octola is launching a new health & wellbeing programme: Respiro Octola. Respiro Octola invites guests to connect deeply with themselves and their surroundings through a curated set of experiences rooted in the purity of the Arctic environment. Breathing in some of the cleanest air on Earth, guests are immersed in conditions that have been shown to contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Earlier research by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Värriö Research Station / University of Helsinki found that spending just a week in Värriö, Lapland, can increase lifespan by up to around 27 hours for someone from India; three hours and 18 minutes for those from Milan, Italy; and 42 minutes for residents from London, England.

“Scientific studies show that air pollution reduces global average life expectancy by roughly two years — and in the most polluted regions, even by a decade. Breathing in air as clean as that found in Lapland can support respiratory recovery, enhance overall wellbeing, and statistically may even contribute to a longer life,” said Professor Mikko Sipilä, Atmospheric Sciences, University of Helsinki.

The experience is bespoke and entirely tailored to each individual. The programme will include a range of practices including guided breathwork, sauna experiences, yoga, ice swimming, and other natural treatments that awaken the senses, restore inner balance and support long-term wellbeing. Many of these practices have been shown to reduce stress and improve resilience. Each element is crafted to reflect Octola’s unique setting and philosophy, offering guests not only untouched nature but the tools to truly absorb its healing energy.

A Living Promise to the Arctic

This is part of a broader, ongoing effort by Octola to support sustainable practices, safeguard the surrounding wilderness, and raise awareness of Arctic purity. By integrating advanced environmental monitoring within its private estate, Octola strengthens its role not only as a destination but as a guardian of what makes this region truly unique.

“The purity of our air is something guests often describe as healing, almost otherworldly,” said Honkanen. “With this monitoring in place, we can ensure we protect it and hold ourselves accountable to the highest possible standard.”