4 Boutique Hotels in Finland for That Christmas Magic

4 Boutique Hotels in Finland for That Christmas Magic

With Finland joining the growing list of Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) countries, it’s time to book that year-end Christmas trip. Beyond idyllic mountains and lip-smacking Karelian pies, Finland is also home to a host of boutique, bucket list-worthy hotels that make every trip a little more magical.

Here are the top 4 hotels we've handpicked for you.

Wilderness Hotel Inari

If catching the Northern Lights from the comfort of the hotel bed sounds like a good idea, then check out Wilderness Hotel Inari. Nestled in one of the best Aurora hunting territories in the world, the resort offers an experience well-beyond its price tag.

Travelling with the family? Fret not.

From the cosy glass-roofed Aurora Cabin to the spacious Wilderness Room with a kitchenette, the resort boasts a wide selection of rooms that cater to groups of any size. Wish to get a taste of Sami culture? Inari village is just a short 5-min drive away. Those who wish to remain in the comfort of the resort can fill their tummies at the Lappish-themed restaurant that overlooks the breathtaking Lake Inari.

When it comes to activities, there are several “must-do”, such as reindeer farm visits, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. At the top of our list is the Husky Safari, where you’ll have the opportunity to be taken through the winter scenery on a sledge by a group of excited huskies. For those intrigued by the past, step into the world of Lappish tradition by signing up for the one-of-a-kind dinner activity designed to bring travellers through history via Finnish folktales and a delightful three-course meal.

Address: Inarintie 2, 99870 Inari, Finland

To make a booking, click here.

Arctic Treehouse Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Arctic nature, Arctic Treehouse Hotel weaves modern comfort into the wilderness of Rovaniemi. Marrying Lappish tradition and Scandinavian design, each room is fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that boast a panoramic view of the verdant forest and Arctic skies. Imagine waking up to pine trees and glistening snow, breakfast in bed will never be the same again. Come night time, the windows stretch the room into a blanket of stars. If you’re lucky, you might get to enjoy the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun from the comfort of your bed.

For activities, Arctic Treehouse Hotel is located within walking distance from Santa Claus Village and the famous SantaPark, an underground amusement park where it’s Christmas all year round. While adults may prefer Santa Village, a trip to SantaPark will be the perfect Christmas treat for the little ones. Earn a diploma from elf school, snap photos with fascinating ice sculptures, or decorate your very own gingerbread stars in the cosy kitchen of Mrs Gingerbread!

When it comes to food, Arctic Treehouse Hotel’s very own Raka is an award-winning restaurant helmed by chef and artist Petteri Luoto. Serving dishes made from the freshest Arctic ingredients, Raka is the place to dine in for a full Lappish experience.

Address: Tarvantie 3, 96910 Rovaniemi, Finland

To make a booking, click here.

Glo Hotel Art

Located in the heart of the design district, Glo Hotel Art is within walking distance of transport connections, vibrant shopping, and a plethora of dining spots. Constructed in 1903, the refurbished stonewalled castle offers a truly unique hotel experience.

While Glo Hotel Art may not have the secret passageways and ever-shifting stairs of Hogwarts, every corner in this Art Nouveau castle exudes an old-world charm that transports you into a world beyond our own. From vaulted ceilings to stony stairwells, right down to the heavy wooden tables and leather armchairs, Glo Hotel Art is the dose of medieval fantasy every trip needs. Want a complete experience? Opt for the Glo Suite, which comes with a spacious sitting area, a walk-in rain shower, and a Nespresso machine for that morning cup of joe.

Address: Lönnrotinkatu 29, 00180 Helsinki, Finland

To make a booking, click here.

Hotel Katajanokka

While the word “prison” rarely paints a picture of comfort and luxury, that can’t be said about Hotel Katajanokka. As a hotel under the Marriott Tribute Portfolio brand, Hotel Katajanokka’s storied history and indie spirit make it a stay unlike any other. 

Constructed in 1837, the building served as Helsinki county prison up till 2002, and reopened its doors as a refurbished hotel in 2007. Under the protection of the Finnish National Board of Antiquities, the main hallway, exterior shell, and surrounding red brick walls serve as the last vestiges of a bygone era.

Each room is meticulously reconstructed from original cell blocks and designed for maximum comfort. Metre-thick brick walls and triple-glazed windows block out all city noise, turning your room into a serene urban sanctuary.

Travellers eager to sink their teeth into the rich history of Helsinki can spend an afternoon at the nearby Helsinki Cathedral and Helsinki City Museum.

Address: Merikasarminkatu 1 A, 00160 Helsinki, Finland

To make a booking, click here.

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