This unique accommodation not only offers a luxurious stay but also has a fascinating history dating back to the 1800s.
History and Atmosphere
Hotel Kakola is located in the former Kakola prison, which operated from 1853 to 2007. This historic building has now been given new life as a hotel, while still preserving the architecture and atmosphere of the old prison. Stepping inside feels like a journey back in time, but with all the comforts of a modern hotel.
Room Types and Their Uniqueness
Hotel Kakola offers a variety of rooms, ranging from stylish standard rooms to luxurious suites. The rooms are tastefully decorated with attention to detail. Each room feels like it has its own story to tell. We visited with our furry friends, so we were placed in the Pet Wing.
In the room, our dogs were greeted with their own treat package, water bowl, and a ball to play with.
The rooms were newly built, with sleek, fresh bathrooms. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the room had all the essentials. The only downside was the air conditioning, which was at the wrong temperature for our taste and couldn’t be adjusted.
Hotel Kakola’s Restaurant Ruben, Bar Hilarius, and Riviera Summer Terrace
Hotel Kakola also features its own restaurant, Ruben, as well as the Riviera summer terrace, which is said to serve some of the best pizzas in Turku. We didn’t get a chance to try them, but if you do, please let us know how they taste! The hotel bar, Hilarius, was very cozy and inviting, and naturally, they served beer from their own brewery.
Kakola Hill and Its Services
Kakola Hill itself is an experience worth visiting, even if you’re not staying at the hotel. In addition to the famous Kakola Rose, you’ll find a charming tap room, a sourdough bakery, a gift shop, and, of course, their own brewery. There’s also a museum, and you can join guided tours of Kakola daily.
Kakola Spa and Kakola Rose
Kakola Spa offers a variety of treatments and saunas, a dream for sauna enthusiasts. You can choose between traditional Finnish saunas, a steam sauna, and an infrared sauna, each providing a unique relaxation experience. The Kakola Spa menu offers a range of massages, facials, and other pampering treatments, all in calm and quiet treatment rooms.
A special mention goes to the spa’s restaurant service, operated by the award-winning Kakola Rose. This brings a touch of luxury to the spa experience, both in terms of staff and the food and drink menu. We enjoyed champagne and oysters at the pool bar—an experience I’ve never had at any other pool bar in Finland! The oysters were incredibly fresh, delicious, and of high quality, as you would expect from Kakola Rose.
Unfortunately, we don’t have any photos from the spa, as photography is prohibited there, which also adds to the intimate and cozy atmosphere.
You can visit Kakola Spa even if you’re not staying at the hotel.
Breakfast Treasures at Hotel Kakola
My morning at Hotel Kakola began with a delicious breakfast, featuring a wide selection of local treats. Meals are served in the hotel’s former prison dining hall, which still retains its original atmosphere. Enjoying breakfast here feels like stepping into local history. Coffee and juice are served in prison-style metal cups.
There’s a wide array of local pastries, fresh berries, and local cheeses. A special mention goes to the hotel’s homemade jams, which make your bread an unforgettable taste experience. The breakfast spread also includes a variety of fresh fruits, yogurts, and health-boosting options to ensure an energetic start to the day.
There’s a great selection of gluten-free and vegan options for those with special dietary needs.
All in all, Hotel Kakola is a true gem on Finland’s hotel map. It skillfully blends the past and present, offering guests an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a hotel that’s more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience.
Photos by Finding Finland photographer Elina Engberg
Text by Titti Myhrberg
