Finland is a country of breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and untouched wilderness. With over 500,000 rental cottages, holiday homes, and villas, staying in a cozy Finnish cabin is an experience like no other. While hotels offer comfort and convenience, a cottage stay provides something far more special—authenticity, privacy, and a connection with nature.
If you’re planning a trip to Finland, here are seven compelling reasons why renting a cottage beats staying in a hotel any time of the year.
1. You Don’t Need to Worry About Dinner Reservations
Eating out at restaurants every night can quickly drain your travel budget. Most rental cottages in Finland come with fully equipped modern kitchens, allowing you to prepare meals just like at home. Cooking with friends and family isn’t just a way to save money—it’s also a fun way to bond and experience local ingredients.
Many cottages are located near supermarkets or small local grocery stores, making it easy to pick up fresh ingredients as you need them. Plus, forget about tedious chores—just load the dishwasher, relax, and let technology do the work while you enjoy your holiday.
2. You Don’t Need to Share the Sauna with Strangers
Sauna is an essential part of Finnish culture, and experiencing it at least once is a must when visiting Finland. However, if you’re new to the Finnish sauna tradition, the idea of going naked into a public sauna with strangers might feel intimidating.
While hotels usually offer saunas in shared wellness areas, nearly all rental cottages in Finland come with a private sauna. This means you can relax in peace, enjoy the heat at your own pace, and even take part in Finnish sauna rituals—without an audience.
After a few sauna sessions, you might even feel confident enough to try a public sauna like a true Finn!
3. You Will Have a Private Beach for Line-Free Tanning
With almost 200,000 lakes and over 46,000 kilometers of coastline, Finland is a paradise for beach lovers. Many cottages come with a private lakeside or seaside area, offering stunning views, direct water access, and a chance to enjoy line-free sunbathing.
If you’re visiting in winter, having a private beach allows you to try winter swimming—a refreshing dip in an ice hole, followed by a warm sauna session. If this sounds intimidating, you can start with the easier version: rolling in the snow during a sauna break!
This level of privacy and freedom is something no hotel can offer without extra charges.
4. You’ll All Be Able to Stay Together
Traveling with family or a group of friends? Cottages in Finland can accommodate up to 15 people, providing plenty of space for everyone to stay under one roof.
In hotels, families and groups often have to book multiple rooms, sometimes even on different floors. This means less time together and more hassle coordinating activities.
At a cottage, you can:
✔️ Cook and eat meals together
✔️ Sit by the fireplace and chat for hours
✔️ Stay up late without worrying about disturbing other guests
It’s the perfect accommodation option for quality time with loved ones.
5. You Can Have a BBQ Anytime You Want
There’s nothing better than a barbecue under the open sky, especially in summer when Finland enjoys the Midnight Sun. Nearly all cottages have a designated BBQ area, whether it’s on a terrace overlooking the lake or in a cozy, covered hut that allows you to grill even in rainy weather.
Some high-end cottages even feature full outdoor kitchens, so you can cook and dine al fresco no matter the season. How many hotels can offer this experience?
6. You’re Guaranteed to Have Nature Around You
While some hotels offer scenic views, rental cottages are always surrounded by nature. Whether located by a lake, deep in the forest, or on a small island, cottages provide direct access to Finland’s pristine landscapes.
No need to drive to a national park—just step outside your door and enjoy:
🌲 Hiking trails through ancient forests
🦌 Wildlife spotting, from reindeer to rare birds
🍄 Berry and mushroom picking in late summer and autumn
In winter, simply put on your skis or snowshoes and explore the snowy wonderland right outside your cottage.
7. You Get to Live Like a Local
A hotel stay is just that—a stay. But renting a cottage gives you a glimpse into the everyday Finnish way of life.
✔️ Chop firewood for the sauna
✔️ Make coffee the Finnish way with a Moomin mug in hand
✔️ Push a boat into the lake and try fishing for your own dinner
✔️ Sit on the terrace at night, watching the northern lights or the endless daylight of summer
Some cottages even come with boats, fishing gear, or bicycles included in the rental price—amenities no hotel can provide without extra fees.
Final Thoughts: Why Choose a Cottage Over a Hotel?
If you’re looking for a more private, relaxing, and authentic experience in Finland, a rental cottage is the way to go.
🏡 More space, privacy, and comfort
🔥 Your own sauna—no need to share
🏞️ Direct access to nature—beaches, forests, and lakes
🍽️ Cook your own meals and save money
🎣 Live like a local—fish, boat, and BBQ
So, next time you’re planning a trip to Finland, skip the hotel and book a cozy cottage instead. It might just be the best travel decision you ever make!
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