H OT E L
Revıew
The Hotel Maria, Helsinki
The hotel introduces a new era of luxury Nordic hospitality to the Finnish capital
What’s it like? Blending old-world charm with modern design, the property is housed within four historic buildings, with original details preserved throughout. Owned by three-time Olympic
gold medallist Samppa Lajunen, it is protected by the Finnish Heritage Agency, Green Key certified and recognised by Sustainable Travel Finland. It is also part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ Legend Collection and Historic Hotels Worldwide. At first glance, Hotel Maria is
a sophisticated city hotel, but when further explored, a wellness destination unfolds. Located in Kruununhaka, Helsinki’s
upmarket residential district, it’s a ten-minute stroll from the city centre, Presidential Palace, Senate Square and must-visit Oodi library.
Rooms With 117 rooms, including 38 suites, each unique thanks to original features, it’s worth doing your homework before booking. Some suites offer saunas, steam rooms, terraces and Jacuzzis, and there are plenty of interconnecting room options. Just a heads up: some rooms have Queen beds, others have King- size. My Deluxe Room felt like a mini suite with a separate living area, sofa, TV, coffee table, minibar and safe. The en-suite had a walk-in rain shower, bathtub, double vanity and Bulgari amenities. Fluffy towels, robes and comfy slippers were a perfect touch, along with high-end linens and chic lighting – including a chandelier.
Facilities For Nordic and international cuisine, Garden Terrace
WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD
V E R D I CT Hotel Maria oozes Finnish-style
refined but relaxed luxury. It bathes you in light, cocoons you in warmth, and indulges you with gastronomic treats and wellness experiences.
The hotel suits all types of travellers and is a great base from which to explore the city’s highlights.
B E S T F O R
Wellness breaks and weekend getaways
D O N’ T MI S S
Spa time and drinks at Bar Maria – probably best in that order
PRICE
From £250 per night CONTACT
Mariankatu 23, 00170 Helsinki; +358 0 988600100;
hotelmaria.fi
is perfect for lunch or dinner, with courtyard seating in summer, while fine dining at Lilja fuses French and Finnish flavours. Don’t miss drinks at the cosy Bar Maria, where Finnish gin steals the show, while breakfast at Lilja is a treat too, with local berries and great coffee. Venue options include the light-filled Maria Ballroom (up to 100 standing), the
Valley room (seats 12), and the Lily room (up to four people). For relaxation and rejuvenation,
G OO D -T O -
K N OW The hotel
works with local farms to grow produce and rear reindeer
78 BUSINESS TRAVELLER
head to the Wellness Club’s fitness centre and The Maria Spa – arguably the hotel’s focal point. The serene spa reflects the Finnish tradition of wellness, offering a traditional sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, a hot tub and an experience pool. The centrepiece is a beautiful glass-roofed atrium with a fountain, daybeds and a fireplace, providing a calming atmosphere. The fitness centre provides a great mix of equipment, plus a mirrored studio for classes.
DECEMBER 2024/JANUARY 2025
IMAGES MIKKO ALA PEIJARI; MICHELLE CHAPLOW/HOTEL ESSENCE PHOTOGRAPHY; KRISTA KELTANEN
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