Throughout this journey in Finland, I stayed everywhere from luxury hotels in the heart of Helsinki to remote retreats in the archipelago. Hanaholmen became the final stop of my stay and, fittingly, one of the most memorable. It was also the venue for the welcoming dinner that opened Fashion in Helsinki 2026, making it one of my first introductions to Finnish culture during the trip.

Hanaholmen is much more than a hotel. Established in 1975 as a cultural centre promoting cooperation between Finland and Sweden, it brings together hospitality, gastronomy, art, and architecture in one remarkable destination. Built on a small island surrounded by the Baltic Sea, the property itself is considered a significant example of Finnish modernist architecture. It feels deeply rooted in its surroundings while remaining timelessly contemporary.

Outside my window stretched the calm waters of the Gulf of Finland and the scattered islands of the archipelago beyond. Although Helsinki's city centre was only a short drive away, the atmosphere felt entirely different quieter, slower, and somehow more connected to nature.

Inside, the hotel is filled with Nordic art and design. The architecture retains the character of the 1970s while being thoughtfully updated for modern travellers. Every room faces the sea, creating a constant connection to the landscape and reinforcing the feeling that nature is always present.Yet despite all of this, the highlight of my stay was something else entirely.

The Glass Sauna. To be honest, I had already experienced several saunas during my time in Finland. After all, sauna culture is impossible to ignore here.

But Hanaholmen's Glass Sauna was different. It completely redefined my idea of what a sauna experience could be. A short walk through the forest leads to a small mirrored structure hidden among the trees. From the outside, it reflects the surrounding landscape so perfectly that it almost disappears into nature.

Inside, however, the experience is entirely different.The mirrored glass allows guests to enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views while remaining invisible from the outside. Sea, forest, sky every direction offers a breathtaking view. The result is an extraordinary sense of immersion.

Opened in 2025, the Glass Sauna was designed to allow visitors to experience the Finnish archipelago while enjoying one of the country's most beloved traditions.

As I sat in the warmth, gazing out across the sea, my sense of time slowly disappeared.Stopped checking the clock and forgot about my phone.For a while, there was nothing except breathing, silence, and the surrounding landscape.

Perhaps this is what sauna was always meant to be.
Having experienced countless saunas in Japan, I can honestly say that I had never felt this level of immersion before. It wasn't because of luxury amenities or elaborate facilities. It was the combination of nature, architecture, and complete stillness that made the experience unforgettable.It felt priceless.Stepping outside after the sauna, the sea was only moments away. The cool breeze sweeping across the archipelago gently cooled my body, creating that unmistakable feeling of total reset.

I even experienced the traditional Finnish plunge into cold water, which delivered what was, without question, the most intense and satisfying "löyly" experience of my life.My mind felt clearer than it had in months.

For the first time, I felt I truly understood why Finns regard sauna not as a trend or leisure activity, but as an essential part of everyday life.What makes Hanaholmen special is that it never tries to impress through luxury alone.Yes, the architecture is beautiful.The food is exceptional.The rooms are comfortable and thoughtfully designed.But the real luxury lies elsewhere.It lies in the proximity to nature.You don't need a packed itinerary here.You don't need activities.Simply watching the sea.Sitting quietly in the sauna.Taking time to do absolutely nothing.These moments become more fulfilling than any scheduled experience.

That, perhaps, is the true meaning of Nordic wellbeing.Throughout my journey in Finland, I came to realise that the country's approach to fashion, design, and culture is deeply rooted in the same values: coexistence with nature, simplicity, and a more human centred way of living.Hanaholmen was one of the first places where I truly felt those values.

If you ever find yourself in Helsinki, I encourage you to make the short journey across the water and experience it for yourself.And above all, experience the Glass Sauna. Because beyond the guidebooks and travel itineraries, this is where you may discover a different kind of richness one that Finland understands exceptionally well.Thank you, Hanaholmen.

I already know I'll be back.
Merci.

Hanaholmen

Located on a small island near Helsinki, Finland, Hanaholmen is a hotel and cultural center established in 1975 as a hub for cultural exchange between Finland and Sweden. The property seamlessly blends modernist architecture with Nordic art, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Finland and its beautiful archipelago from every single guest room. Its true charm lies in this unique, special environment—surrounded by rich nature and profound tranquility, yet remaining easily accessible from the city center.In 2025, the hotel introduced a new Glass Sauna that offers 360-degree panoramic views, allowing guests to indulge in an authentic Finnish sauna experience while gazing out over the sea and forest. Highly acclaimed not only for its beautiful architecture and exceptional service, Hanaholmen stands out as a premier destination where guests can truly experience Nordic wellbeing and embrace "the luxury of doing nothing."

Address:Hanasaarenranta 5, 02100 Espoo, Finland
Website: Hanaholmen
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