Helsinki
Finland might not seem like the most inviting place to visit during the cooler months of the year, but 2017 marks a particularly significant year for this Nordic nation.
Celebrating its independence from the Russian Republic, Finland will turn 100 in the New Year and will mark this milestone with a yearlong party; kicking off the first with a bang on New Year’s Eve in the Töölö Bay area and at Kansalaistori Square in central Helsinki. Through marking its centenary of independence, Finland and its vibrant capital Helsinki have become some of the most talked about destinations to visit in 2017. Helsinki has long been regarded as a hub for artistic innovations and even has its own design district which houses many fashion boutiques, vintage stores, interior design showrooms, galleries and inventive high end dining options. The city’s architecture is diverse and mixes a signature simple ‘Nordic’ style with elements of Neoclassicism, Art Nouveau, Modernism and Contemporary, making the different districts of the city a real historical maze. An ideal destination to visit year round – and particularly during the winter months – Helsinki links travellers with the rest of the country’s raw and untamed landscape.
STAY
Klaus K Hotel | Bulevardi 2-4, 00120
Located in the heart of Helsinki, Finland’s first Design Hotel Klaus K is housed in a historic building. The host of many fashion shows, art events and cultural activities, Klaus K has been a under the Design umbrella since 2005 and provides the perfect backdrop for guests to explore the cultural heart of the city.
Hotel Kämp | Pohjoisesplanadi, 29, 00100
Part of The Leading Hotels of the World’s portfolio of luxury properties, 125 year-old Hotel Kämp has provided a residence for Finnish artists, ruling elite and intelligentsia for over a century, making its history colourful. One of the most technologically advanced hotels of its time – it was the first to operate a lift – Hotel Kämp quickly established itself as the centre stage of the political and cultural scene of Helsinki. Today it welcomes visitors from all over the world for its touch of bygone luxury.
EAT
Ragu | Ludvigsgatan 3, 00130
Nordic flavours and seasonal raw materials are paired with a fine selection of Italian wines at this Helsinki gastronomic hotspot. The creative menu combines elements of modernity, traditional tastes and raw materials with the culinary ethos of Italy. Here diners find intense and long stewed meat dishes: Ragu meaning a ‘long brewing’.
Kuurna | Meritullinkatu 6, 00170
Bohemian decor makes this tiny venue all the more charming and worth the visit to experience some of the locally sourced and seasonal dishes innovatively created by the kitchen at Kuurna. The 11 seats are located close to the venue’s open kitchen; diners are kept intrigued by the noises and smells coming from the kitchen. Located a little off the beaten track of the usual restaurant strip in Helsinki, this venue and is worth the detour as it embraces all things modern European, just don’t expect to go as a large group.
Island Near Helsinki
DO
Kotiharjun Sauna Oy | Harjutorinkatu 1, 00500
There are indeed a number of sauna options in Helsinki, some more luxury and international than others, particularly those located within its larger hotels. If however you wish to ‘go native’ and experience an authentic and traditional public wood-fired sauna, Kotiharjun Sauna Oy dates back to 1928 and is one of the oldest operational saunas in the city. Separated between men and women, steam seekers can also book to enjoy a traditional scrub down and message.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort | Kakslauttanen, 99830 Saariselkä, Finland
Take a flight from the capital and visit the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. Just over an hour away from Helsinki you are in the heart of Finland’s glacial wilderness. Stay overnight in a Kelo-Glass igloo for a glimpse of the iconic Northern Lights or take a reindeer safari. Sleeping up to six guests and featuring a private sauna, fireplace, kitchen and one bedroom with a stunning glass roof, the Kelo-Glass igloo allows you to take in the enchanting beauty and Lappish wilderness from the comfort of your own private hideaway.
For travel arrangements and flights please contact us
December 8th 2016