If you’re seeking an escape that melds the tranquility of nature with the accessibility of Helsinki, look no further than The Barö Hotel.
During a recent press trip to Finland, I had the pleasure of experiencing The Barö firsthand. As a travel blogger focusing on European destinations, I typically find myself immersed in bustling city life complemented by day trips in the surrounding areas. However, this stay coaxed me into appreciating a more serene form of travel, a rhythm that encourages savoring life beyond the frenzy of urban centers—something I am eager to pursue more frequently.
Location
Strategically positioned, The Barö is just over an hour’s drive from both Helsinki Airport and the city center, with Turku Airport also within a two-hour reach. My journey began at Heathrow, flying with Finnair—feel free to check out my review of their business class experience.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Barösund in Inkoo, this hotel is an ideal starting point for those eager to immerse themselves in the breathtaking Finnish wilderness without straying too far from Helsinki’s grasp. The charm of this locale isn’t new; it has long been a favored retreat for both locals and visitors captivated by its serene beauty. Even renowned Finnish artists have historically gravitated to Barösund for summer respite, tracing back to the 13th century.
The Barö: An Overview
The Barö is a newly constructed hotel built with a keen eye on sustainability. Developers meticulously prioritized ecological impact from the outset, ensuring that the surrounding forest and landscape remained unharmed. The result is a stunning lodge that not only harmonizes with its natural setting but also offers a welcoming and personalized experience.
The hotel’s buildings feature Finnish heartwood logs, sourced within a 100-kilometer radius of the sawmill, emphasizing minimal ecological disruption. Embracing renewable energy sources, The Barö operates entirely on wind power, and in 2023, plans are underway to introduce solar panels that will further bolster its sustainable energy usage.
Recognition has followed The Barö for its commitment to both sustainability and inclusivity, earning accolades such as the Sustainable Travel Finland Label, Green Key, and We Speak Gay certifications.
Check-In
Our visit coincided with the low season, lending an intimate feel to The Barö, which made our stay even more memorable. The check-in process occurs in the restaurant, enhancing the cozy, familial atmosphere of the hotel.
Guests are escorted to their rooms to ensure they feel at home and understand the amenities. The seamless check-in was made easy with every detail communicated via email beforehand. We received a card outlining our pre-booked activities and private sauna and jacuzzi times.
The Rooms
The Barö features 18 separate lodges ingeniously integrated into the rock face, offering various room types. Some include shared terraces, while others boast private outdoor spaces, all interconnected by a charming wooden walkway.
Hykcklesund Rooms
I had the pleasure of staying in one of the Hycklesund rooms, ideally situated close to the restaurant and just a brief stroll from the sauna. Despite sharing a terrace, the ambiance in the room felt private and serene, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
The room featured a well-appointed bathroom stocked with fragrant toiletries. While my experience was seamless, a few fellow guests encountered intermittent hot water issues.
Additionally, each room includes a mini-bar with prices displayed on a tablet, adding a modern touch to the experience. Traditional Finnish coffee mugs and a selection of drinks were also available.
The Barösund Suite
For those in search of an extraordinary experience, the Barösund suite does not disappoint. This luxurious retreat features not one, but two elegant rooms interlinked by a private terrace. With a plush king-size bed, a cozy living area complete with a fireplace, and an outdoor sauna and jacuzzi, you’ll discover a slice of paradise during your stay.
At The Bergvala
Similar to the Hycklesund rooms, The Bergvala accommodations include a fireplace located conveniently in front of the bed—perfect for warming up after a day of exploration. These rooms also offer private terraces for leisurely evenings under the stars.
The Barölandet Mini Suite
This spectacular mini-suite features a king-size bed, a cozy living area, and a spacious terrace showcasing breathtaking views of the majestic valley.
The Barölandet
The Barölandet offers a plush king-size bed along with an expansive terrace. For those traveling in groups or with family, it’s also available in a twin configuration with easy access between rooms via a shared terrace.
Facilities and Services at The Barö
Complementing its stunning location, The Barö features a sunset terrace, sauna, and jacuzzi available for guests, along with an assortment of tours and activities to explore the area further.
Sunset Terrace, Jacuzzi, and Sauna
One of the highlights of a stay at The Barö is undoubtedly the sunset terrace, perfectly positioned beside the lake. The sauna is truly exceptional, featuring a spacious changing area equipped with towels and refreshments. Inside, you can enjoy sweeping views of the lake through expansive panoramic windows. The jacuzzi also overlooks the serene waters, making it the ultimate relaxation spot after a day of outdoor adventure. For the brave-hearted, a platform extends over the lake, inviting you to take a leisurely swim.
Guests can book the sauna and jacuzzi for private use as well.
Massages
For those wishing to unwind even further, The Barö offers massage services on request. I opted for a rejuvenating 30-minute back massage utilizing suction cups, which left me feeling utterly refreshed.
Outdoor Space
Exploring the natural surroundings is a must; hiking ranks as one of the top activities in the region. Our guided hike led us through the forest and along the lake, focusing on mindfulness and appreciating the beauty around us.
We learned about local berries, herbs, and bird species while tracing deer tracks and engaging with the local ecosystem. At one point, we took a moment to lie on yoga mats on the forest floor, allowing nature to envelop us fully.
The hotel can also organize a variety of activities with local partners, including:
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Electric Bikes
- Mushroom and Berry Picking
- Yoga
- Horse Riding
- Golf
- Picnicking
Food and Drink
The Barö features an on-site restaurant, The Berg, serving three delectable meals each day. My experience here was truly impressive, highlighted by their commitment to sustainability and support for local businesses. The restaurant carved out a special space in my visit, offering culinary delights crafted from regional ingredients that exemplify responsible sourcing. It was heartening to see a hotel so focused on making a positive impact on the environment while providing an exceptional dining experience.
The kitchen is adept at accommodating a range of dietary preferences. As a pescetarian, my meal choices largely revolved around delicious fish, and I appreciated the thoughtful swaps—like tofu in place of veal one evening and alternatives offered at breakfast.
Breakfast
Breakfast is a delight at The Barö, served in a charming wooden box featuring a bounty of mouth-watering options. Guests can also opt to enjoy breakfast in the comfort of their rooms. Highlights include the hotel’s own smoked salmon, fresh local bread, seasonal fruits and berries, and high-quality pork sourced nearby.
Self-serve delicious coffee and daily-changing juices round out this inviting morning feast.
Brunch
Weekend brunch is a treat, featuring an assortment of appetizers, a warm main course, and dessert, although I didn’t partake during my visit.
Lunch and Dinner
Lunch offers a filling three-course menu, while dinner elevates the experience with a four-course offering, with the option to indulge in up to seven courses for an extra charge. It’s an unforgettable culinary adventure awaiting every guest.
With an extensive wine list sourced from regions such as France, Italy, and Spain, and delicious cocktails crafted with care, dining at The Barö is an experience not to miss.
For a special dining occasion, the hotel hosts regular chefs’ table events featuring seven-course surprise menus. Visiting chefs also grace the menu on certain nights, providing a rotating showcase of fresh, seasonal cuisine led by esteemed sommeliers from Finland and beyond.
Room service is another option available from 5 PM to 7 PM for those wishing to dine privately.
Booking a Stay at The Barö
Guests can book directly through The Barö’s official website or via various booking platforms, such as Booking.com and Hotels.com. Rates start from €238.
Final Thoughts
My stay at The Barö was truly unforgettable. There’s something remarkably special about a retreat that so effortlessly connects you with nature while offering unparalleled comfort. It’s the perfect sanctuary for unwinding from the busyness of day-to-day life or exploring the enchanting areas surrounding Helsinki.
If our review piqued your interest in The Barö, explore more hotel assessments on our site. For those seeking convenient accommodation near Helsinki Airport, consider the Clarion Hotel, ranked among the top ten closest hotels offering a comfortable experience for both leisure and business travelers.