With winter now in full swing, many of us are planning an escape to sunnier climes and a lavish break away from the stresses and strains of modern life – but if you’re one of those who, on the contrary, loves cold weather and embraces it with open arms, then you might be considering a jaunt somewhere scenic, snowy and a much shorter hop away instead.
Finland is quickly becoming known as one of the best winter holiday destinations in the world for wealthy travellers, so if you’re looking for an intriguing destination to visit where you won’t have to compromise on luxury, then this small Nordic nation might just be it. And its vibrant capital city, Helsinki, is the perfect place to enjoy a last-minute winter city break.
Those with money to burn can enjoy some incredible activities during any stay in the city – with Finland a country blessed with some truly breath-taking natural scenery and unspoiled wilderness for those eager to venture a little further afield.
From skiing and hiking through nature reserves to luxuriating in opulent spas and enjoying decadent fine dining experience, whatever you’re hoping to get out of your getaway, Finland has got you covered – and it’s all reachable in under three hours by plane from the UK if you take a direct flight from London to Helsinki.
Where to stay
You may have heard that Finland is home to some of the most prestigious hotels on the planet, and its reputation for luxury is in part thanks to the Kämp Collection Hotels, some of which have existed for more than 100 years and are located in Helsinki. Properties include the Hotel Kämp, Hotel St. George, and Hotel Haven – all of which are obvious choices when it comes to travellers searching for a lavish five-star experience.
Offering elegant and sophisticated accommodation to visitors to the Finnish capital, check in at a Kämp property and you can expect top-notch service and a wide range of luxurious amenities to guarantee a dreamy stay.
Hotel Kämp is an historic property that has been completely renovated to offer guests the ultimate in extravagance and comfort. Featuring an array of spacious guest rooms and suites, many offering beautiful views of the city, it also boasts a fully equipped fitness centre, sauna, and full-service spa for keeping up your fitness regime or relaxing after a busy day of exploring the city.
Hotel St. George, meanwhile, is another luxurious option that won’t disappoint, having been referred to as a Marriott-style establishment by Miles to Memories. Located in the heart of Helsinki and exuding a unique blend of traditional Finnish design and contemporary elegance, the hotel features 89 sumptuous rooms and suites, all of which are decorated with a mix of classic and modern furnishings. Guests can relax in the hotel’s sauna and indoor pool, or enjoy a fine dining experience at the hotel’s restaurant, where decadent cuisine is served up daily.
Large hotels aren’t for everyone, however, so if you’re seeking a cosier and more intimate base for your time in Helsinki then head straight to the Hotel Haven – a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of capital. Featuring just 40 rooms and suites, all of which are decorated in a modern-day style, it’s less than half the size of the Hotel St. George, but still offers all of the key amenities you’d expect to find in a top-of-the-range five-star hotel. Highlights include the terrace, which affords guests beautiful, sweeping views of the city, and a restaurant that serves up delicious food and drinks throughout the day.
The Kämp Collection Hotels appeal to wealthy travellers because of their reputation for high-end luxury, excellent service, and prime locations and are perfect for travellers seeking a deluxe and sophisticated experience whilst enjoying the best that Helsinki has to offer. So, if you’re not yet acquainted with this esteemed hotel brand, then now is the time to get to know it.
Where to eat
Foodies will be delighted to know that there are some incredible fine dining options in Helsinki, Olo being one of the standout eateries you simply must experience during your time in the city.
DinnerBooking notes how ‘everything at this gourmet establishment reflects joy’, with the restaurant holding a variety of accolades for its contemporary Finnish cuisine, including two coveted Michelin stars.
Some other unmissable spots include Grön and Demo, which serve up innovative Nordic cuisine and modern European fare respectively – but be sure to book a table well in advance, as reservations for these sought-after dining options fill up fast.
What to do
If you’re looking for some more excitement after the sun goes down, then you’re in the right place, as Helsinki is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. The Grand Casino Helsinki is the most exclusive gambling house in the country and is open every day of the year, regularly attracting high-rollers from across the globe – and for players in search of variety, it boasts more than 1,000 slot games and 30 tables on its expansive casino floor.
It’s not the city’s only casino; in fact, Finland is home to 87 land-based establishments overall. If you don’t feel like leaving your hotel room then there are also a vast array of options for playing your favourite games online, with Norppa Casino considered one of the best. Featuring a broad range of games that are enjoyed by players across the country, you’ll find dice games and Deuces Wild alongside popular classics like Blackjack and Roulette – which is not too dissimilar to what you’d find if you stepped into the Grand Casino Helsinki.
Entertainment options for big spenders in the country don’t stop there, as Finland is also home to several world-class theatres and concert venues. These include the Finnish National Theatre and the Helsinki Music Centre, which host a wide variety of performances including plays, operas, and concerts throughout the year. The latter is considered to be one of the most important cultural venues in the country, because it’s home to several orchestras and ensembles known around the world, such as the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Sibelius Academy, and the Tapiola Sinfonietta.
