Rauhalinna: A luxurious retreat in the Finnish countryside

Nestled in the forests of southern Finland on the shores of Lake Saimaa, Rauhalinna is a historic estate with a rich cultural heritage, located just a few hours’ drive from Helsinki. Brought back to life by passionate private owners, the estate offers opulent accommodation and facilities, including a large lakeside sauna and terrace, a smoke sauna, and a private pier. At Rauhalinna, elegance, modern comfort and history coexist harmoniously.

Originally built in the 1900s as a dacha, or summer residence, for Russian nobility, Rauhalinna later fell into disuse. Under the careful watch of the current owners, the villa underwent a period of historically respectful renovation from 2019-2023, guided by Finnish heritage conservation specialists and expert artisans. They restored the estate to its former glory, with the added advantage of modern conveniences.

Guests come to Rauhalinna seeking privacy and tranquillity in an authentic Finnish setting. “Many use the space for family gatherings, wellness retreats, or meetings and executive workshops,” says Susanna Nevalainen, a representative of Rauhalinna. “Others want to unwind in comfort and style.” The alluring atmosphere and stunning lake views make it an ideal venue for bespoke experiences, such as weddings and other private celebrations.

Rooms at Rauhalinna are thoughtfully designed throughout the main villa and the guesthouses. “The main villa features grand rooms with historical splendour, while the annexes offer cosy, comfortable spaces,” says Nevalainen. “All accommodation is furnished with high-quality furniture, premium bedding, and state-of-the art amenities.” The villa includes luxuries such as a games room, professional kitchen, billiards hall, and banquet hall.”

The cuisine at Rauhalinna focuses on local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients such as lake fish, foraged mushrooms and berries, and artisanal cheeses. The estate follows a farm-to-table approach that ensures fresh flavours and support for the regional economy. Chefs create menus that cater for guests’ preferences, from classic Finnish cooking with a twist to international fine dining. “Every meal is memorable,” says Nevalainen.

The area around Rauhalinna offers a wealth of activities, from forest walks in the pristine nature surrounding the estate to cycling, swimming and boating. Sauna and wellness services including yoga and massages are also available. During winter, guests might try snowshoeing and ice swimming, or relax by the fireplace. Tailored excursions such as wine tastings, tours and creative workshops can be arranged on request. Nearby towns are known for their charm and world-class cultural events such as Savonlinna Opera and Mikkeli Classical Music Festival.

Rauhalinna is well-equipped to manage the needs of all visitors, from families to guests with special assistance requirements. “Our goal is to establish Rauhalinna as one of Finland’s most sought-after luxury estates,” says Nevalainen. “We hope to be known for our authenticity and the personalised service we offer.”

Web: www.rauhalinna.fi
Instagram: @villarauhalinna