Anthony Verlaine

Anthony Verlaine is a 40 year old professional explorer and entrepreneur. His career has taken him on expeditions all over the world, crossing the Amazon rainforest, kayaking in Alaska and crossing the Kalahari desert to mention a few adventures.

Anthony was primarily scouting the outbacks of Canada, Alaska and the Midwest in the US for his dream remote place, but he couldn’t find a perfect fit.

How did you find Ånge?

– During one of my expeditions in the Namibian desert in 2009 I met and became good friends with Patrik from Sweden. One winter’s day in 2022 Patrik called me and said that there were two islands for sale in a lake outside Ånge. Two days later I was in Ånge and not long after that the deal was closed.

Anthony has since then had Ånge as his base and spent all his savings, passion and spare time converting the islands to his home and a remote adventure destination. In the summers Anthony has attracted groups of volunteers to come and help him build this paradise home.

As of 2026, both islands are bookable destinations. Marketed as The Haven Islands, this is a place for visitors who want to experience complete silence and live in harmony with nature. All buildings on the islands are integrated in the trees and you can borrow canoes, fishing gear or skis and skates.

So, what makes this place so special?

– At the Haven Islands I can live in harmony with nature and just enjoy being in the present. I love taking care of the little things, like boiling water, fishing and taking care of the garden. During the summers I can enjoy the midnight sun and winter time the aurora lights. It is amazing!