From Hawaii to California and Florida, I’ve had the pleasure of staying in some stunning Preferred Hotels & Resorts around the United States. Recently, I chose one of their international properties in Finland! While Finland is known for the northern lights and being the home of Santa Claus, the capital city of Helsinki should not be overlooked. Their innovative art, culture, and architecture are just three reasons why you should add Helsinki to your list. And while you’re there, Hotel Lilla Roberts is the perfect place to rest your head right in the city center’s vibrant design district. 

Location:

One of the reasons why I loved staying at Hotel Lilla Roberts was their fantastic location. The most interesting places to explore and dine in Helsinki are only a short walk away. For example, you’re a 5-15 minute walk from the famous Design Museum, Esplanade (near all the luxury shops), Helsinki Observatory, SkyWheel, both Upsenski and Helsinki Cathedrals, Vanha Kauppahalli (an historic indoor market by the waterfront) and so much more. 

The hotel’s building dates back to 1908 and was designed by one of Finland’s top architects, Selim A. Lindqvist. For most of the 20th century, these were the head offices for Helsinki’s Energy Works and housed an electrical substation that provided energy for the city center. Nowadays, this historic gem is Hotel Lilla Roberts with its 1930s Art Deco interiors and impressive art collection. In other words, the building now beautifully reflects the ultra-cool design district it is in.

A Lux Room:

I checked into Hotel Lilla Roberts in the later evening and was greeted by the friendly front desk staff who were quick to offer me bottled water. I was very excited to check into my Lux Room after my long travel day. The high ceilings and hardwood floors were a welcome sight and not something you see very often in hotel rooms. The chic and quirky decor, such as an animal print love seat at the foot of the bed and an elephant lamp, perfectly complimented the style throughout the hotel. Thankfully, as stylish as the furniture is, it is just as comfortable too (especially the king bed and Egyptian cotton duvet). 

In the morning, I found out how much I appreciated the three large windows in my room as the natural light was abundant and created a whole different mood to the room. The desk space next to the sitting area was large and I know many business travelers would appreciate this. The black and white bathroom interiors were sleek and sparkling, with a deep bathtub to relax in as well. Overall, after exploring the city for hours each day, my elegant yet cozy room at Hotel Lilla Roberts provided a perfectly luxurious, home-away-from-home. 

Dining:

Downstairs, you can enjoy the impeccably decorated lounge next to check-in, as well as a fabulous bar. Bar Lilla e. is known for classic cocktails but with a creative, Nordic twist. You can sip these by their cool fireplace, or lounge on the couches while bopping to DJ music every other Friday night. Speaking of gastronomy, you do not have to wander far to find Hotel Lilla Robert’s delicious restaurant: Krog Roba.

I loved everything about Krog Roba, from the uniquely tiled floors to the warm jewel tone furnishings, and of course, the food. Firstly, this is where hotel guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet every morning. While booking a room, there is an extra charge for breakfast which can often be avoided or discounted if you book their Advance Payment Rate or Preferred Bed & Breakfast rate. No matter what, this breakfast is absolutely worth every penny. 

Not only is it extremely convenient to walk downstairs every morning and have breakfast ready for you, but the several beautifully set up buffet stations offer everything you could want from a Finnish breakfast. You can choose from healthy options such as natural yogurt, raw porridge, fruits, nuts, vegetables, warm smoked salmon, boiled & scrambled eggs, and even a Finnish forrest berries juice shot. Or, like most, you can indulge in freshly baked breads, Karelian pasties, crispy bacon, home made cheeses, Finnish pancakes and so much more.

Krog Roba also offers lunch which we didn’t have the chance to enjoy, but we did book a table for dinner one night – a great decision! Every table is lit by candlelight which creates a very romantic atmosphere. I highly recommend their three course menu for 49 euros as it’s an excellent value with delicious Nordic offerings. I loved starting with the seasonal Jerusalem artichoke soup with apple, followed by Pike-perch with pike Wallenbergare, celeriac and dill gravy. One of the highlights was their unique, slightly deconstructed, carrot cake with cream cheese and roasted almonds. Everything from the flavor to the portions and presentation were superb.

Lastly…

Like always, Preferred Hotels & Resorts never disappoints and Hotel Lilla Robert is a place I’m confident to recommend to anyone who’s planning a trip to Helsinki! And because of Preferred’s portfolio, I highly suggest joining their rewards program which is absolutely free to join, and they do NOT bombard you with unnecessary emails. I have personally been an I Prefer Rewards member for years now and I love all the perks such as welcome drinks, early check-in and late check-out, room upgrades, free internet, and so much more. Being able to earn points that are redeemable for free hotel stays is also a huge plus for someone who travels as much as I do.

Please note: I was a guest of Preferred Hotels & resorts, but all opinions are my own.