The newly opened 5-star Hotel St. George in Downtown Helsinki, has emerged out of a striking former 19th century historic building originally designed by architect Onni Tarjanne, of Finnish National Theatre fame.
It is the latest venture by Finland’s Kämp Collection Hotels group, and there is no shortage of spectacular design features. Guests are greeted in the lobby by an unmissable multi-headed light sculpture, Tianwu, by contemporary artist and activist Ai Weiwei.
The seven-story building is close to the harbour and Design District which means easy access to the city’s art and culture scene.
Who for
Hotel St. George offers understated luxury, and couples will enjoy the beautiful rooms and spa/sauna experiences. It is ideal for business travellers too thanks to the great location and proximity to Helsinki airport (around 30 minutes by taxi).
Children are welcome at Hotel St. George, but you must be over 16 to use the spa and gym facilities.
Accommodation
(c) Lucy Woods
There are 148 rooms and five suites, with views of either the city or Old Church Park decorated in stylish tones of pale olive, tan and pearl. The artwork is created by renowned Finnish artists.
The beds are gloriously comfy with plump pillows, elegant furniture and Spanish marble bathrooms with L:a Bruket skin-care products. Rooms are also kitted out with flat screen TV’s, adjustable air-conditioning and a SodaStream to make your water bubble.
Upgrade to an Atelier room for the pleasure of a huge bathtub and King-size bed.
Facilities
The pool and spa at Hotel St. George (c) Mikko Ryhanen
The Romanesque-style spa at Hotel St. George features a pool, sauna, plunge pool and relaxation space. The playground gym is open 24 hours a day, and guests can also book a selection of skin care treatments and massages.
There are no parking facilities at Hotel St. George but guests can request a 20% discount voucher on check-out if they park at Erottaja Q-Park at Yrjönkatu 8–10.
Food and drink
The glass-ceilinged Wintergarden at Hotel St. George (c) Mikko Ryhanen
Breakfast is served in Andrea, a contemporary neighbourhood restaurant which though a separate business, is located on the lower ground floor. The menu includes authentic Finnish cuisine. There’s a fantastic hot and cold buffet serving such delights as freshly baked bread, smoked salmon and Finnish cheese. The in-room chef can also rustle up fresh omelettes, quiches and Shakshouka – poached eggs with tomato and chilli.
If you’re in a rush, the St. George Bakery offers a quick, delicious breakfast and coffee to go. The bakery is open every day and also serves freshly baked bread, pastries, salads and lunchboxes.
You can also relax in the glass-ceilinged Wintergarden in the hotel’s inner courtyard. The stylish living room serves a beautiful selection of cocktails and contains three nooks: a wine room, poetry room and dining room to host large meetings and special banquets.
Is WiFi available
Yes, WiFi is available throughout the hotel and is free of charge.
Room rates
Prices start at €230 per night (including breakfast).
What’s nearby
Take a stroll through Helsinki’s Design District, where you can explore a huge variety of galleries and shops selling artwork, chic clothing and beautiful tableware. The city is famed for its surplus of museums, and the newly opened Amos Rex Museum is not to be missed.
The hotel is also 10-minute walk from the harbour, where you can visit the Allas Sea Pool or take a ride on the Helsinki Skywheel.
READ ALSO: 24 hours in Helsinki
Getting there
Finnair connects passengers to Helsinki from over 100 destinations in Europe, 19 cities in Asia and seven cities in North America. This includes direct flights from London, Manchester and Edinburgh.
From Helsinki Airport you can either take a taxi or catch a train to Helsinki city centre.