Guided Tour of Castle Hotel
1 / 12

Imatran Valtionhotelli

4.2
·2k reviews·Imatra, Finland

Historic castle-like hotel by Imatrankoski rapids, offering grand architecture, nature access, and a touch of local ghost lore.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Crisp air, fall colors

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Guided Tour of Castle Hotel

Imatran Valtionhotelli

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Crisp air, fall colors

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic castle-like hotel by Imatrankoski rapids, offering grand architecture, nature access, and a touch of local ghost lore.

4.2
(2k reviews)

"Spot on location and nice architecture especially on the old part. Great breakfast and nice views."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Pack comfy walking shoes

Essential for exploring Kruununpuisto park's many stairs and trails.

👻 Be open to ghost stories

The hotel is rumored to be haunted; embrace the spooky tales!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Valtionhotelli Building

The Majestic Valtionhotelli Building

A stunning, castle-like structure dating back to 1903, exuding historical charm and architectural beauty.

Kruununpuisto Park Trails

Kruununpuisto Park Trails

Explore scenic forest paths, rocky outcrops, and charming streams in this expansive, free-to-enter park.

Imatrankoski Rapids

Imatrankoski Rapids

Witness the impressive power of the Imatrankoski rapids, especially during scheduled water shows.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Grandeur (and Ghost Stories!)

Imatran Valtionhotelli, a historic castle-like hotel, offers a unique blend of grandeur and local lore. Be prepared for potential paranormal encounters, as some guests report ghostly sightings! TikTok+1

Location & Nature Await

Nestled beside the powerful Imatrankoski rapids and surrounded by the lush Kruununpuisto park, this hotel is a nature lover's paradise. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the park's trails and stairs. TikTok

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Crisp air, fall colors
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Long daylight, nature
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

S P O T 🫦 #imatra #valtionhotelli #fpvdrone #fpvlife #fpv #suomi
@valkeafpv
830 likes • 25.9K views

👟 Pack comfy walking shoes

Essential for exploring Kruununpuisto park's many stairs and trails. TikTok

👻 Be open to ghost stories

The hotel is rumored to be haunted; embrace the spooky tales! TikTok+1

#lmatra #finland🇫🇮 #финляндия🇫🇮 #спуск #водапад #valtionhotelli Valtionhotelli#flypシ #хочу #suomi #kaupunki #замок #отель
@katrikouru
121 likes • 4.4K views
Imatran Valtionhotelli näyttää linnalta ja on avattu 14.10.1903. Käytävällä voi kohdata rakkaudessa pettyneen Elsin, jonka väitetään kummittelevan käytävillä. Puistohotelli on valmistunut 1980-luvulla ja on kaunis oman aikansa rakennus. Hotelli sijaitsee aivan Imatran kosken vieressä ja ympäröivässä puistossa voi seurata koskinäytöstä vaikka paviljongissa. #imatranvaltionhotelli #imatra #hotelli #...
@tarizti
11 likes • 1.7K views

🚗 Free parking available

Convenient for those arriving by car. TikTok

🍽️ Enjoy the on-site dining

The restaurant offers good food with nice views. Reddit

Yöpyessä Imatran Valtionhotellissa saattaa saada karmaisevan herätyksen 😱 #mystistäpodcast #mystistä #podcast #yliluonnollinen #paranormal #aave #imatra #suomitiktok
@mystistapodcast
400 likes • 28.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Pack comfy walking shoes

Essential for exploring Kruununpuisto park's many stairs and trails. TikTok

👻 Be open to ghost stories

The hotel is rumored to be haunted; embrace the spooky tales! TikTok+1

🚗 Free parking available

Convenient for those arriving by car. TikTok

🍽️ Enjoy the on-site dining

The restaurant offers good food with nice views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests praise the beautiful architecture and prime location of Imatran Valtionhotelli, especially its proximity to Kruununpuisto park and the Imatrankoski rapids. The breakfast and restaurant also receive positive mentions. However, some visitors have noted the lack of air conditioning in rooms and occasional issues with amenities like the TV and gym.

"A beautiful building. The rooms are comfortable. Sadly, there is no A/C or room service. Maybe the new owners will fix that."

Pete Di Santis

"Spot on location and nice architecture especially on the old part. Great breakfast and nice views."

Juho Äännevaara

"Rooms don’t have AC. Tv didn’t work. Gym is a joke. No take away breakfast. Staff not serviceminded."

Patrik Göransson

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Great location
Good breakfast

What People Dislike

No AC in rooms
Gym is basic
No room service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Imatran Valtionhotelli is easily accessible by car, with free parking available. TikTok Public transport options include buses and trains to Imatra, followed by a short taxi or local bus ride to the hotel. The nearest major airport is Lappeenranta (LPP), about a 40-minute drive away.

While the hotel is centrally located, it's best to check local bus routes for direct access. Many visitors opt for taxis from the Imatra train or bus station for convenience.

Kruununpuisto park is right next door and perfect for walking. TikTok For exploring further afield, consider renting a car or utilizing local bus services to discover nearby attractions in Imatra.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The hotel itself is a functioning accommodation. While you can visit the grounds and admire the architecture, staying overnight requires booking a room. Entry to Kruununpuisto park is free. TikTok

As a hotel, it's open 24/7 for guests. The restaurant and bar will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late evening.

No, Kruununpuisto park, located adjacent to the hotel, is completely free to enter and explore. TikTok

Yes, the Imatrankoski rapids are a major attraction. Water shows are often scheduled, especially during peak seasons. Check local schedules for timings.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and a sauna. Some guests have noted the absence of air conditioning in rooms. Reddit

Yes, there is a fitness room available for guests. However, one review described it as 'a joke,' so manage expectations. Reddit

One guest mentioned bringing their dog, suggesting pets might be welcome, but it's always best to confirm directly with the hotel. TikTok

The atmosphere is generally relaxed and grand, with a touch of historical mystique. Some guests have reported experiencing paranormal activity. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Kruununpuisto park offers beautiful nature walks, and the Imatrankoski rapids are a must-see. The town of Imatra also has local attractions.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The hotel has a restaurant that is well-regarded for its food and views. Reddit Breakfast is also provided and generally receives positive feedback. Reddit

Yes, complimentary breakfast is a standard offering at Imatran Valtionhotelli. Reddit

While specific menus aren't detailed, most Finnish hotels offer a range of options. It's advisable to inquire with the restaurant staff upon arrival.

According to one review, room service is not available. Reddit It's recommended to dine in the restaurant or enjoy the bar.

Reviews generally praise the food, with the restaurant being a highlight for many guests. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The grand architecture of the hotel itself is a prime subject. TikTok The surrounding Kruununpuisto park offers scenic views, especially with the rapids in the background. TikTok+1

One TikTok video showcases impressive FPV drone footage of the hotel and its surroundings, indicating it's possible. TikTok Always check local drone regulations before flying.

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, will offer beautiful lighting on the historic building and the natural landscape. TikTok+1

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial or professional shoots might require special permission. Always be respectful of guests' privacy.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the hotel's grandeur and the expansive park. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the rapids or wildlife in the park.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Imatran Valtionhotelli offers a unique experience for families, combining historical intrigue with natural exploration. The vast Kruununpuisto park is perfect for kids to run around and discover nature, with plenty of space for picnics and games. TikTok While the hotel itself is grand, it's worth noting that some rooms may lack air conditioning, which could be a consideration during warmer months. The hotel's proximity to the Imatrankoski rapids also provides an exciting, albeit supervised, natural spectacle for children to witness. TikTok

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the supernatural, Imatran Valtionhotelli is a must-visit. The hotel is famously rumored to be haunted by the ghost of Elsi, a woman scorned in love. TikTok Guests have shared their experiences of eerie occurrences and unexplained phenomena during their stays, making it a prime destination for ghost hunters. TikTok Embrace the spooky atmosphere and perhaps even try to capture your own paranormal encounter during your visit.

🚶‍♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers

The hotel's location adjacent to Kruununpuisto park makes it an ideal base for nature lovers. TikTok Lace up your hiking boots and explore the park's diverse trails, which wind through forests, along streams, and offer stunning views of the Imatrankoski rapids. TikTok The park is a fantastic place for photography, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the tranquility of Finnish nature. Remember to bring water and snacks for your excursions.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Hauntings

Imatran Valtionhotelli, opened in 1903, is a magnificent example of Art Nouveau architecture, designed to resemble a grand castle. TikTok Its historical significance is palpable as you walk its halls. However, the hotel is also steeped in local folklore, with tales of a heartbroken spirit named Elsi said to wander its corridors. TikTok This adds an intriguing layer of mystique for visitors, with some guests even reporting unsettling experiences during their stay. TikTok

Beyond the main hotel building, a charming 'Park Hotel' was added in the 1980s, offering a different architectural style while complementing the historic ambiance. TikTok The hotel's location right beside the powerful Imatrankoski rapids further enhances its dramatic setting, making it a destination that appeals to history buffs and those with an interest in the supernatural alike.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Kruununpuisto

Adjacent to the Valtionhotelli lies Kruununpuisto, Finland's oldest nature reserve, offering a serene escape into the Finnish wilderness. TikTok This expansive park is a haven for walkers and nature enthusiasts, crisscrossed by well-maintained trails that lead through forests, alongside streams, and over rocky outcrops. TikTok Visitors are advised to wear good walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and involves numerous stairs, particularly if you venture to higher viewpoints. TikTok

The park provides stunning vistas of the Imatrankoski rapids, a truly awe-inspiring sight, especially when the water is flowing strongly. TikTok+1 The natural beauty of Kruununpuisto, combined with its proximity to the historic hotel, makes it an integral part of the Imatran Valtionhotelli experience. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in nature, enjoy invigorating walks, and witness the raw power of Finnish waterways, all without an entrance fee. TikTok

Recent Ownership and Future Prospects

In recent times, Imatran Valtionhotelli has seen changes in ownership, with news highlighting its acquisition by the Palokari family's hotel chain. TikTok This transition has been met with a determined spirit, as the new leadership aims to overcome challenges and ensure the hotel's continued success. TikTok

While the hotel boasts historical charm and a prime location, some guests have pointed out areas for improvement, such as the lack of air conditioning in rooms and occasional issues with amenities like the TV or gym. Reddit The hope is that the new ownership will address these points, potentially enhancing the guest experience and modernizing certain aspects of the property while preserving its unique historical character.

You may also like