Having started life as a power plant in 1909 before being repurposed as a police department half a century later, this unique property – designed by one of Finland’s top architects – is brimming with charm. But that’s not to say that it’s stuck in the past; a full 2012 renovation has brought fresh, contemporary design to this historic building. Boutique rooms feature chic furnishings while guests are greeted by the lobby’s polished marble floor, oversized fireplace and grand ebony statues.
Eat
The hotel’s Krog Roba restaurant showcases the very best in Nordic cuisine, using regional ingredients wherever possible. The fish is from the Baltic Sea and the meat from farms just outside Helsinki. What’s more, specialties from around Scandinavia are represented with their hometown origins detailed on the menus. Perhaps enjoy roasted salmon with Brussels sprout and roe sauce – a dish from coastal Norway – or Gothenburg’s fried witch flounder served in cauliflower and browned butter. Whatever you order, expect it to be immaculately presented in true gourmet fashion. And, between three course lunches and included breakfasts, all three meals are well looked after.
Sleep
Across all room types, you can rely on more of that cutting-edge design. Contemporary sensibilities are realised in Art Deco bathrooms and plush king-size beds dressed in Egyptian cotton linen. Hardwood parquet floors lined with plush area rugs round off the aesthetic while Bluetooth speakers, complimentary wireless internet and 47” flatscreen TVs ensure that you’re not without creature comforts. Consider upgrading for larger rooms, bigger TVs and movie theatre sound systems. Suites, up to 100 square metres in size, are particularly indulgent with bubble baths and views over Kasarmitori Square.
Do
Centrally located, you’ll have much of Helsinki’s top sights on your doorstep. Ferries depart from a next-door port to the Suomenlinna island fortress while the city’s famed art-nouveau museum squares are just a few minutes’ walk away. Just a touch further afield, the sweeping glass and steel curves of Kiasma are home to the best in international modern art. Back at Lilla Roberts, you’ll find an excellent bar whose menu runs from American reds to African cocktails. Burn off any excesses at the hotel’s gym, complete with free weights and a full range of cardiovascular machines.
