Explore the charming manors of the Finnish countryside
If the words ‘manor house’ conjure up visions of quintessentially English properties of a bygone era then think again. Finland’s manor houses are being restored and converted and attracting tourists. Be it noble families or industrial magnates, Finland’s wealthy have left a legacy of impressive estates in bucolic locations that are now open to all.
Katinen Manor, Hämeenlinna
This hotel is located in a beautiful, early 20thcentury red brick building, which originally served as a cowshed with the public spaces and restaurant located in the original manor building. The interior of the rooms is simple with a strong Nordic style and flair contrasting to the grandeur of the original manor building with its impressive chandeliers and wall coverings. Just 2km from the centre of Hämeenlinna and an hour’s drive from Helsinki the location is perfect for those wanting to relax and enjoy the lakes situated nearby.
Rates start from €138 per night per room including breakfast. katistenkartano.fi/en/katinen-manor
Haikko Manor, Porvoo
Located only 50km from Helsinki, Haikko is one of the oldest and best-known manors in Finland, with history dating back to the 14th century. It’s also just five km from the historic, wooden, coastal town of Porvoo which is perfect for a day trip. The rural setting is complemented by a spa offering a traditional wooden Finnish sauna by the sea and wellness pools and a ‘freezing room’ where the -110?c temperature is supposed to promote deep sleep, release tension and boost circulation. The most scenic route to Haikko is the waterway from central Helsinki on the M/S Runeberg.
Rates start from €118 per night per room including access to the manor’s spa and breakfast. haikko.fi/en/home.php
Svartå Manor, Mustio
An hour’s drive from Helsinki, on the west coast for Finland Svartå Manor was built between 1783 and 1792 and is the largest non-ecclesiastical building in Finland. The original staff quarters have now been converted to accommodation and the restaurant prides itself on fresh, seasonal and local flavours served in the Old Coach House. The five historical buildings of the grounds all have their thrilling stories, including “The White Lady” ghost story.
Rates start from €147 per night per room including breakfast. mustionlinna.fi/en/welcome
Wiurila Manor, Salo
Since the 15th century, a manor has stood in Wiurila, 50 km from Turku no the west coast of Finland. The current main building was designed in the 19th century by famed Finnish architect C. L. Engel, and it is one of the most elegant country club buildings in Finland. The hotel boasts an 18 hole golf course that is known for its wide and varying fairways but for non-golfers there is horse riding available and a horse carriage museum to explore.
Rates start at €70 per night per room including breakfast. wiurilankartano.fi/
Vuojoki Manor, Eurajoki
Arriving at Vuojoki, which is located between Rauma and Pori in the west of Finland is a somewhat surreal experience: The manor was designed by the renowned Finnish architect, C. L. Engel and strongly resembles Helsinki’s Senate Square but relocated to the middle of an idyllic Finnish West Coast country landscape! The Orangerie that once produced the northern most pineapples and peaches has now been converted to a relaxing space housing a sauna and the accommodation is modern and nods to the original style and decor.
Rates start from €99 per night per room including breakfast. vuojoki.fi/tmp_vuojoen_kartano_site_0.asp?sua=2&lang=3&s=221
