For several summers now (and even at Christmas), we’ve had the pleasure of hosting Finnish families living abroad who return to Finland for their holidays. Through these conversations, we’ve gained a clear understanding of what a rental villa should truly offer. After all, during a long-awaited Finland visit—lasting anywhere from a week to several—most expats prefer not to spend the entire time hopping between relatives’ cottages. Everyone knows that… it’s not always the best idea.

First, families originally from southern Finland should choose a villa with convenient access. In other words: not on an island. When the goal is to meet friends and family, there will naturally be a lot of driving. On the other hand, it’s often wise to stay far enough away that relatives don’t end up spending too much time at your rented cottage. In that sense, Tammisaari is the perfect distance!

Second, the villa must be well-equipped. The outhouses and carrying water from childhood cottage trips are best left in the past. A proper holiday villa should be equipped like a modern home: electricity (of course!), heating, hot and cold water, safe drinking water, an indoor toilet, and a shower as basic requirements. With Finnish summers getting warmer, cooling—such as an air heat pump—is also highly recommended, especially when you’re used to air conditioning abroad. A good-quality outdoor grill is a must, but so are the small details: a full gas bottle, firewood, and everything ready to use. Holiday time in Finland is precious, and everything should work smoothly and reliably. Ease and comfort should come as standard.

Most importantly, the whole family should enjoy themselves—so much so that everyone wants to return to Finland again next year. At Villa Långstrand, for example, the private area available to guests spans over 15 hectares, and there are no neighbors nearby. Of course, thanks to Finland’s everyman’s rights, you can move freely elsewhere too—but it’s a special feeling to walk and explore a large private estate in complete safety and privacy. Privacy can be incredibly valuable, and it’s worth considering when choosing a holiday villa.

Even on a large property, children and teenagers will get bored if the only entertainment is an iPad. From experience, we can say that our guests’ children have truly enjoyed the chance to fish, play tennis and beach volleyball, row, and swim as much as they like. Some activities (like tennis) are shared between both villas, but you can also rent the estate so that no other guests are present during your stay.

And let’s not forget the highlight: the Finnish sauna. Both villas have large saunas, and you can also rent an outdoor hot tub. The Drop Pool hot tub on the terrace is a wonderful experience in any weather. This is not a difficult wooden tub, but a genuine design-class, electrically heated outdoor spa. Just enjoy!

Space certainly won’t run out in Villa Mustikka (3 bedrooms, 163 m²), and the yard also includes a modern guest cabin (25 m²)—perfect for friends who pop in for a surprise visit. Not quite comfortable enough for them to stay the whole week, of course.

Our second villa, Villa Pihlajanmarja (2 bedrooms, 113 m²), is located in its own peaceful area near the shoreline. This villa can also be rented in a Premium version, which includes exclusive access to the large beach area and seafront terrace.

All essential services—supermarkets, Alko, restaurants, and more—are a short 25-minute drive away in Tammisaari. A bit further is Hanko, offering an even wider selection of restaurants and beautiful long sandy beaches.

Get in touch and reserve your holiday week today.