Best Luxury Hotels in Finland
Lapland, the forested lakelands, coastal towns and the capital Helsinki (known also as the Nordic hub of design) are all popular destinations in this peaceful country. A nation with a strong maritime history, water plays an important role in Finnish culture – and makes up a large part of the national geography. Its coast is home to the world’s largest archipelago and three of Finland’s seven Unesco World Heritage sites. Whether planning a tour of Scandinavia, a city break in Helsinki, a trip to see the northern lights (and midnight sun), or a sustainable vacation, here are some of our suggestions for the country’s finest accommodations.
Western Finland, Tampere
Lillan Boutique Hotel & Kök
(4 stars)Found in the pretty garden district of Viinikka, just a mile and a half from the centre, this wooden building dates from 1927. Its 11 bedrooms offer true Scandi style, with a slightly vintage feel. The airy onsite restaurant creates its nutritious dishes using local producers’ ingredients from forests, lakes and gardens, using Finnish childhood flavour memories as inspiration for the menu. Breakfast/brunch are included in the room rate and offer an elegant spread with the likes of smoked salmon mousse à la Lillan and overnight oats. There’s also a lounge and summer terrace for bites and drinks.
Lapland, Rovaniemi
Arctic Light Hotel
(4 stars)Once Rovaniemi’s City Hall, the Arctic Light Hotel became Nordic Lapland’s first premium hotel back in 2015. Themed to reflect the local landscape and the hotel’s partnership with the WWF, the family-owned brand seeks to raise awareness of global warming. With 57 rooms (some boasting private saunas and starlight headboards), it displays a modern sumptuousness. Guest dine in the Arctic Boulevard restaurant, where the emphasis is on regional and healthy fare; the breakfast menu is world-class and comes from a celebrity chef. However, further eateries, shops, bars, the riverfront and tour meeting points are just a few minutes away on foot.
Southern Finland, Helsinki, Kluuvi
Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna
(4 stars)Located in the very heart of Helsinki, this elegant hotel boasts an authentic 1950s style, while each guestroom offers the best that Nordic contemporary design has to offer. the rooms that are located on the ninth floor of the hotel are particularly choice as they come complete with large balconies, while the furniture is perfectly in keeping with the hotel’s ‘50s theme. In the summer months, guests will want to take a seat on the huge dining terrace where they will be treated to a huge selection of Finnish tapas dishes and stunning views of the city.