Four unique places to stay this summer in Finland

Are you yearning for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Look no further than Sviskär, a 28-hectare private island nestled in the Åland archipelago, offering the ultimate in seclusion and serenity.

The island features a charming "hermit's cabin" that comfortably accommodates up to four guests, designed in the traditional style of historic fishing villages found in Finland's outer archipelago. With no electricity on Sviskär, you'll have the opportunity to completely disconnect and immerse yourself in the tranquil sounds of nature.

Days can be spent leisurely strolling along the island's pristine shores and through its lush forests, where wild mushrooms and berries await foraging enthusiasts. In the evenings, cosy in the warmth of the traditional log cottage, illuminated softly by a paraffin lamp. For an authentic experience, indulge in a sauna session in the island's wood-fired sauna, followed by a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea.

Discover the serenity of Finland's largest lake, Saimaa, with a stay at Uhkua, a family-owned floating raft accommodation. Crafted from recycled materials and accessible by rowing boat, this distinctive nature retreat offers lodging for up to three guests amidst stunning lake vistas.

Begin your getaway with a revitalizing swim in Lake Saimaa, then unwind in the floating sauna or the traditional log sauna on the shore. Adventurous souls can rent a canoe to explore Lake Saimaa's hidden gems, including ancient rock paintings at Astuvansalmi.

Hosts Asta and Ilkka provide personalized service and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a memorable and peaceful stay at Uhkua. Escape the pressures of daily life and reconnect with nature in this exceptional floating accommodation on the serene waters of Lake Saimaa.

Discover Villa Berg, an exceptional accommodation at the Pellinge Marina boutique resort in Porvoo. Aptly named "Villa Rock", this modern villa is a tribute to the region's maritime heritage, meticulously excavated from the rare black rock of the Pellinge archipelago over a decade ago and completed in early 2024.

Perched atop a cliff, Villa Berg offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea through its expansive windows. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Pellinge archipelago, with activities ranging from fishing trips and jet ski safaris to visits to local museums and art galleries.

Literature enthusiasts will delight in the area's connection to Tove Jansson, creator of the beloved Moomin stories, who spent summers nearby. Guided tours exploring Jansson's favourite spots in Pellinge or visiting her summer haven on the nearby island of Klovharun are available during open house weeks.

Experience a one-of-a-kind stay in the Finnish countryside at Ilmatar Airplane Lodge, located just 30 minutes from Jyväskylä. The journey began when a group of young entrepreneurs acquired a decommissioned passenger airplane at auction and transformed it into a remarkable lodging destination. After transporting the airplane to its picturesque countryside setting and completing necessary renovations, Ilmatar Airplane Lodge opened its doors to guests in June 2024.

The lodge offers a private accommodation complex accommodating up to eight people, featuring three distinct lodging options: a private jet, a villa inspired by an air traffic control tower, and the Skyline granary room. Beyond its quirky accommodations, Ilmatar provides guests with a well-appointed kitchen, a cosy lounge for movie nights, and a terrace perfect for relaxed barbecue evenings with friends or family. Traditional Finnish yard games add a local flair to the lodge's unique holiday experience.

For relaxation, guests can enjoy two distinctive saunas and an outdoor jacuzzi. Unwind in the wood-burning sauna nestled in the air traffic control tower or experience the airplane sauna, ingeniously integrated into the fuselage of the decommissioned plane.