Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi operates just 3.5 months annually but maintains year-round profitability through strategic planning and technology that works in sub-zero temperatures.
The Sustainable Travel Finland programme has certified 431 companies since 2020, with 214 labels awarded specifically to hotels and accommodations.
Skýra Retreat, an exclusive new destination in Lapland, is set to welcome its first guests in December 2025 on the shores of Lake Norvajärvi, just outside Rovaniemi, Finland. This intimate retreat invites guests to experience a new vision of luxury - one rooted in elemental design, Nordic heritage, and a pace of life guided by nature. With its carefully restored 1950s village schoolhouse at its heart and surrounded by ancient forests, Skýra Retreat offers the opportunity to slow down and reconnect, surrounded by the Arctic's beauty.
Waldorf Astoria makes its Nordic debut, unveiling a new era of luxury in the heart of Helsinki. Owned by M&L Group and operated by Hilton under the Waldorf Astoria brand, the landmark property spans four beautifully preserved historic buildings, designed by Finnish architects Evert Lagerspetz and Armas Siitonen. Waldorf Astoria Helsinki features 116 elegantly appointed rooms, including 32 suites, inviting guests to experience timeless elegance, Nordic sophistication, and the kind of personalised service that has defined the brand for over a century.
In an exquisite fusion of old-world elegance and contemporary comfort, Finland's first grand hôtel, Hotel Kämp, introduces 22 completely new rooms and suites. Located within the historical Helander House, the expansion into the new space celebrates Kämp's enduring legacy, taking inspiration from the aesthetics of the Finnish Golden Age.
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has announced today the signing of a management agreement with M&L Group for The Hotel Maria in Helsinki, which will be re-branded as Waldorf Astoria Helsinki. This marks the first hotel to operate under the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand in Finland, introducing the brand's legendary service and award-winning hospitality to the Nordics.
Scandic is continuing to grow its Scandic Go offering in Finland by establishing a new hotel in Turku. The new centrally located 138-room hotel will strengthen and complement Scandic's existing offering in the region, which is expected to show strong growth within tourism, business and culture.
Located in a historic property in the heart of the Finnish capital, the new NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa offers a unique blend of rich heritage and modern hospitality.
Scandic has signed a long-term lease agreement with property developer SRV for a new 144-room Scandic Go in Oulu, Finland. The hotel will be centrally located in northern Finland's largest city and is expected to open during the second half of 2025.
Bob W Kamppi, secured in collaboration with real estate partner Slättö, sits in an area of Helsinki that is known as the heart of the Finnish music scene where more than half of the city's live music venues are situated. Kamppi is a cultural melting pot of creativity and is home to many museums, record companies and music festival headquarters - the Urho Kekkosen Katu stretch has even been nicknamed 'Rock and Roll Street'.In keeping with a growing trend in the repurposing of commercial buildings, Bob W Kamppi is a former office block that will be transformed into stylish apartments set around an inner courtyard with a rooftop sauna lounge, in a prime location. Office to hospitality conversions are bringing new life to cities, a movement that Bob W is a true advocate of with projects such as Kamppi and others across Europe.Opening in 2025, Bob W Kamppi's mixture of studios and one-bedroom units will have an interior concept designed by local design agency KOKO3, uniquely merging the building's 70s raw architecture with modern Finnish design. A colour palette inspired by the local neighbourhood blends with statement design pieces, while locally sourced artworks, a signature of the Bob W brand, capture Kamppi's essence. Collaborations from renowned contemporary Finnish designers Vaarni & Basta feature in coworking spaces, in the rooftop lounge and in the sauna facilities, showcasing a mix of nostalgia and modernity.As a climate-neutral hospitality provider, Bob W's extensive renovation of this office building has the environment at its core. In partnership with renowned sustainability experts Avarrus Architects, a firm that was shortlisted for Finland's highest architectural award, the vision for Bob W Kamppi is to preserve the building's original 1970's essence, while significantly elevating its sustainability credentials and functionality. Refurbishment plans include advanced, eco-friendly HVAC systems, energy efficient windows replacements, roof repairs, a renovated parking deck and the integration of solar energy solutions, all aligning to achieve LEED gold certification, the highest sustainability standards in the green building rating system.
Bob W Turku City Centre is a purpose-made development in one of Turku's landmark buildings at Eerikinkatu 12C known as 'Vanun Talo' or the Cotton Wool House. The property was named after its longest-standing tenant, a fully female-led textile company 'Oy Turun Vanu' occupied it until the 1950s. Recently referred to by locals as 'Queen of the Marketplace', Bob W Turku City Centre is situated in the bustling market square next to excellent transport links - a perfect position for exploring the area.Hand picked by Bob W, Turku was chosen for its historical charm, modern vibe and wide selection of vibrant stalls, cafes and restaurants (Turku is known as Finland's food capital) as well as big name shops, malls and department stores. In the summer, the city of Turku really shines. A walk along the Aura River gives views of traditional medieval buildings such as the Turku Cathedral and Castle, and the river boats turn into cosy pubs anchored alongside outdoor eateries, while regular music festivals, such as the internationally acclaimed Ruis Rock add to the atmosphere.Constructed in the 1920s, this historical jugendstil building showcases unique architectural features including the varying floor levels and the recent restoration of the building's facade. Inside, local designers and artists have created a warm, authentic atmosphere inspired by the laid-back browns and greens of the Aura River. Muted tones are accented with shades from Turku's iconic landmarks including the city's official mascot Posankka (it's Pigduck!), bringing a splash of pink. Inspiration is drawn from the functionalism of the 1920s and 30s, where comfort takes priority and every corner feels like home.
The heart of Helsinki welcomes a new chapter in luxury Nordic hospitality today with the opening of The Hotel Maria. Proudly joining Preferred Hotels & Resorts' prestigious Legend Collection, this urban sanctuary seamlessly melds contemporary elegance with the echoes of its storied past in the city's historic Kruununhaka district. Featuring 117 rooms, including 38 lavish suites, two restaurants, a grand ballroom, serene chapel, state-of-the-art spa, and a destination boutique showcasing jewelry of Faberge and esteemed Finnish designers, The Hotel Maria is without a doubt one of the most anticipated launches of 2023 and the year ahead.
Santa’s Official Post Office1 in Rovaniemi, Finland, is expected to receive over 30,000 letters daily from children and adults around the world this year. In a bid to attract novice elves, a magical cabin stay has been listed on Airbnb for guests – free of charge – to roll up their sleeves, lend a hand with the backlog of letters and experience the joy of the holiday season from the Arctic Circle.
Scandic Hotels has signed a long-term agreement with landlord Exilion to extend the agreement and rebrand the Holiday Inn City Centre in downtown Helsinki. Since acquiring Restel in 2017, Scandic has operated the hotel under a lease agreement with Exilion and a franchise agreement with IHG. From 2025, the hotel will be operated under the Scandic brand.
The first Radisson RED hotel has arrived in Helsinki, the green capital of the world's happiest country. Situated in a new, modern building in the city's oldest park, Kaisaniemi Park, the new hotel offers inspiring art and contemporary design in the beating heart of Helsinki.
Owner and operator of diverse portfolio of hotels and resorts to add second property in the Nordic market Project sees the refurbishment of two historic buildings in collaboration with Ylva Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor with more than 530 hotels in 56 countries in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe, South America and North America, announces the upcoming launch of its first property in Finland - the five-star NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa - as part of its expansion plans in the region.
Scandic Hotels has signed a long-term lease agreement with landlord Projekti GH Oy for two hotels with a total of 459 rooms in the unique Garden Helsinki, a multi-functional event arena in Helsinki, Finland. The agreement includes one Scandic Go hotel with 232 rooms and a 227-room Scandic hotel that are expected to open in 2028. The new hotels will be established in one of Scandic’s key destinations where the company sees growing demand from both corporate and leisure travelers.
Tech-powered short-term rental operator Bob W, announces further growth with expansion in Helsinki. Located in the heart of the city's lively Kaartinkaupunki area, the brand has secured an iconic hotel property — the former Hotel Rivoli Jardin building.The addition of Bob W Kaarti to the portfolio will see the innovative brand operating 32 properties across 20 cities in nine European countries, expanding the reach of its pioneering approach to 21st-century hospitality.
The Hotel Maria will redefine Nordic hospitality when it opens its doors in the heart of Helsinki on December 15, 2023 as a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts' prestigious Legend Collection. Nestled in the historic Kruununhaka district, The Hotel Maria is a destination in its own right with 117 spacious rooms, including 38 luxurious suites, alongside two elegant restaurants and bars, a ballroom, chapel and state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities, as well as a destination boutique featuring esteemed Finnish designers. Meticulously reimagined for the discerning modern traveler, the hotel seamlessly blends contemporary grace with distinctive elements from its historic past. The Hotel Maria is the ideal gateway and home base for memorable Nordic adventures of all types, whether guests are immersing themselves in traditional Finnish sauna culture or exploring the vibrant attractions of Helsinki. Reservations can now be made for stays starting December 15.
Laura Tarkka is a well-known name within the Finnish business sector and her most recent position is CEO of Finland's largest electronics chain, Gigantti. Prior to this, she worked for several years in the hospitality industry as CEO of Kämp Collection Hotels and held management positions within the Fazer Group.