Arctic Equinox:
7-Day Yoga Retreat in the Finnish Lapland
with Liza Higbee-Robinson
Join Liza for an early fall yoga retreat and one-of-a-kind adventure in Finnish Lapland, 400 kilometers above the Arctic Circle, where vast tundra, rugged fells, and expansive northern skies invite us to slow down, linger in awe, and return to what is most essential within.
This retreat coincides with the Autumn Equinox, a time when light and darkness meet briefly in balance. Against the brilliant colors of ruska, Lapland’s fleeting autumn, we’ll explore our own relationship with change and transformation processes, recognizing not only the invitation to release, but the possibility for renewal that comes with letting go and carrying on.
Daily yoga and contemplative practices will be interwoven with time outdoors, nourishing meals, rest, and community. As the week unfolds, our practices will invite us into deeper relationship with the rhythms of fall within and around us.
Kilpisjärvi, Finland
September 19 - 25, 2027
7-Days / 6-Nights
Starting at $2,675
What’s Included
7 days / 6 nights accommodation at Cahkal Hotel in Kilpisjärvi, Finland
Yoga programming led by Liza, offered twice daily except on arrival and departure days
(3) meals per day inspired by local, seasonal Arctic cuisine
Onsite sauna access
Round-trip group transfer between Tromsø Airport and Cahkal Hotel when traveling within the recommended arrival and departure windows
15 continuing education hours available for yoga teachers; hours may be applied toward BYC’s 300-Hour Advanced Yoga Studies Program or Yoga Alliance continuing education requirements
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8:00 am: Breakfast
9:15 - 10:30 am: Morning Practice: Strong & Slow Vinyasa Flow
Free Time: Hike, sauna, rest
1:00 pm: Lunch
Free Time: Hike or bike ride (trails are accessible from Cahkal and bike rentals are available), enjoy the onsite sauna, head out on an excursion, or rest
5:00 - 6:15 pm: Evening Practice: Flow & Restore Yoga
6:30 pm: Dinner
7:30 pm on: Possibility of Northern Lights viewing!
*This schedule may be subject to modification to support your ability to enjoy place-based and cultural excursions
About the Property
Our home for the week will be Cahkal Hotel, an intimate wilderness hotel in the village of Kilpisjärvi in Finnish Lapland, approximately 400 kilometers above the Arctic Circle.
Near the meeting place of Finland, Sweden, and Norway, Cahkal is surrounded by sweeping tundra, rugged fells, clear northern waters, and endless sky. In early fall, the surrounding wilderness transforms into ruska: a brief and vivid season of gold, amber, crimson, and rust. Nearby trails provide an opportunity for you to explore this colorful time for yourself.
Cahkal offers a warm, contemporary refuge within this wild landscape. Cozy gathering spaces provide room to linger over meals and conversation or to appreciate a quiet moment between activities. Meals are seasonally inspired, bringing Arctic ingredients and recipes to the table. Cahkal’s sauna offers a quintessentially Finnish way to warm and replenish yourself.
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-Guided Evening Wilderness Hike with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights 125 Euro PP
-Three-Country Border Tour: Experience the unique opportunity of standing in three countries at once on this unforgettable excursion to the famous Three Country Border, where Finland, Norway and Sweden meet. The journey begins with a scenic 30-minute boat ride to the beautiful Koltalahti shore. From there, set out on a guided hike through the peaceful northern wilderness toward the historic border monument. Upon reaching the iconic Three Country Border cairn, you'll have the rare opportunity to visit three countries in just 30 seconds by simply walking around the monument. After taking in the scenery and stories of this special location, we hike back to Koltalahti shore, where our boat awaits for the return journey. 225 Euro PP
-Arctic Ocean Hike in Norway: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Arctic landscape on this unforgettable mountain adventure overlooking the Arctic Ocean. The journey begins with a scenic transfer from Cahkal Hotel to the charming village of Skibotn, Norway. From there, we set out on a stunning mountain trail that gradually reveals spectacular views of rugged peaks, deep fjords, and the endless Arctic Ocean. This hike involves a significant amount of ascent and descent, making it a rewarding challenge for active outdoor enthusiasts. While the terrain itself is generally straightforward, a good level of fitness is required due to the elevation gain. Along the way, we take plenty of breaks to soak in the magnificent scenery, capture photos and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Arctic wilderness. Around halfway through the hike, we'll stop for a delicious outdoor lunch surrounded by some of the most impressive coastal mountain views in Northern Scandinavia. 295 Euro PP
-Sámi Reindeer Farm Visit: Step into the heart of Lapland and discover the authentic traditions of the North. Visit a nearby local reindeer farm and meet a reindeer herder whose family has cared for reindeer for generations. Get up close to these gentle arctic animals, feed them by hand and learn about their important role in local life and culture. As you spend time with the herd, your host will share fascinating stories about reindeer herding, everyday life in the Arctic and the rich heritage of the indigenous Sámi people.This intimate experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with local traditions, Saami Culture and reindeers. 120 Euro PP
*Participation in excursions is entirely optional. You are equally welcome to take your free-time for yourself to rest, reflect, sauna, explore nearby trails, or otherwise enjoy the beauty of the Lapland. The listed excursions above will be available at an additional cost and more information will be provided upon registration/closer to the trip
Accommodations
Each room has exquisite mountain views. The tall windows let you feel the surrounding nature pouring into your room. All rooms are equipped with en-suite bathrooms, drying cabinets, hair dryers, kettles, complimentary coffee & tea and free Wi-Fi. To maximise comfort, the rooms also have bathrobes & slippers, blackout curtains, air conditioning and soundproofing acoustics to minimise external sounds.
Shared Room — $2,675
Shared room accommodations are ideal for friends, couples and solo travellers wanting to be paired with a new friend.
Private Room — $4,675
Private rooms are perfect for the solo traveller wanting to retreat to a quiet sanctuary.
Prices displayed above are per person and do not include flights, gratuities for retreat staff, or additional spa services/activities.
To reserve your space, you must complete and submit a registration form, retreat agreement & liability waiver, and $600 non-refundable deposit. Once your form & deposit have been received, we will follow up to confirm your accommodation selection and provide additional retreat details. Before submitting a registration form, please read the payment terms & cancellation policy here.
NOTE: After submitting your registration form and agreement, you will be redirected to complete your deposit through Kenko, our booking platform. Your space is not reserved until both your signed agreement and deposit have been received.
Retreat Details
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Fly into Tromso airport in Norway Sept 19th. If you fly into the airport during recommended travel times you will be transferred from Tromso airport to Cahkal Lodge. The drive is approx 2 hours 15 minutes with a scenic route with mountains and fjords.
Travel windows for included shuttle:
Fly in Sept 19 before 12pm (TBD Coming Soon)
Fly out Sept 25 after ____ (Coming Soon)
If you choose to travel outside of recommended arrival and departure windows retreat transportation will be at an extra expense.
We encourage you to plan your arrival to Tromso at least one day before the retreat begins, if your schedule allows. Arriving early gives you time to adjust to the time difference, settle into your surroundings, and account for any unexpected travel delays or flight disruptions. A little extra time can go a long way toward helping you begin the retreat feeling rested, grounded, and ready to enjoy the experience.
You might want to rent a car if you want to explore the area more than the provided retreat excursions.
Check-in is available starting from 2:00 p.m. on September 19.
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The following expenses are not included in the total retreat cost:
Airfare
Transportation is not included IF you travel outside of airport shuttle pickup windows
Travel Insurance (not required but highly recommended)
Gratuities
Additional spa services, activities or excursions
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Prices are per person + add 3.5% processing/admin fee for credit cards
Payment methods: cash, check, or credit card (make checks payable to Bellingham Yoga Collective)
Payment plans available!
Secure your spot with a $600 deposit; to be paid in person or online. Once you place your deposit we will email you to confirm your preferred room choice.
Final balance due 120 days before start of retreat.
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Please be sure you will be able to attend before you submit your deposit. All deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Payment is due in full 120 days prior to the start of the retreat. If you cancel 120 days or more prior to the retreat start date, you will be issued a refund, less your $600 non-refundable deposit.
Due to retreat centers’ refund policies, we cannot offer any refunds, transfers or credits for cancellations for any reason within 120 days of the retreat start date. Thank you for your consideration with this policy as so much time and heart go into planning retreats for you!
Ready to book? A completed registration form, retreat agreement & liability waiver, and $600 non-refundable deposit are required to reserve your space! After submitting your registration form and agreement, you will be redirected to complete your deposit through Kenko. Your space is not reserved until both your signed agreement and deposit have been received.
Due to retreat centers’ refund policies, we cannot offer any refunds, transfers or credits for cancellations for any reason within 120 days of the retreat start date. If you cancel 120 days or more prior to the retreat start date, you will be issued a refund, less your $600 non-refundable deposit. Thank you for your consideration with this policy as so much time, liability, studio resources and heart go into planning retreats for you!
About Liza
Liza Higbee-Robinson (E-RYT 500, YACEP, M.A.) is a weaver of movement, breath, and heart themes drawn from the ancient wisdom teachings of Yoga, made relevant to us in the world we inhabit now. She encourages her students to explore through all layers of their aliveness, from the still, spacious depths, to the most mundane and surface level thinking, feeling, and doing. For over a decade, Liza has devoted herself to sharing her love of practice with others as an asana instructor, mentor, trainer, and retreat leader.
Questions?
Please email Claire@bellinghamyogacollective.com for more information about payment plans and with all other general retreat inquiries.
