Helsinki sanctuary for the soul with Marja Putkisto
Welcome to the happiest country in the world - and a transformative itinerary rich in nature, wellbeing and simple luxuries that combines both tranquility and Club Avandra-style activity. This could just be the most enjoyable way to sleep better, stress less, and feel more energised. Led by Finland’s leading expert in body and movement management and founder of the Method Putkisto Institute Marja Putkisto, you’ll get under the skin of this fascinating city via its art, culture and some of it’s most inspiring women - and you might even tap into what makes Finns so consistently happy, too…
Bendier, livelier and even happier in just a few days? Yes, really… This unforgettable journey of self-care and rejuvenation promises to deliver all of this, with a healthy dose of fresh air, modern design, living history, arresting architecture, good food – and great company too, of course. Think of it as a sanctuary for the soul, Finnish style.
Your mornings start early with uplifting walks through Helsinki’s varied and picturesque landscapes. Each day’s route will differ, from intriguing strolls around the historic old city, its streets just awakening to the magical morning light, to gentle coastal hikes taking in lungfuls of the cleanest air and unspoilt views of the archipelago. Your one constant each day is gentle exercise – oh, and great coffee by the harbour, too.
Later, there is the chance to island hop around the archipelago and enjoy outdoor activities in Helsinki’s impressive parks. Marja will host an indoor Putkisto workshop, introducing new tools to rejuvenate, remove stress and redefine your beauty. If a seaside sauna or dip in the Baltic sea takes your fancy, be our guest – and the friendly local seals won’t mind, either. You can take in the city’s famous design shops, beautiful galleries, significant landmarks and its incredible architecture and meet some of the inspiring women behind its vibrant culture.
Come evening, indulge in Helsinki’s bars and restaurants and maybe even a spin on the dancefloor. In Finland the sun hardly ever sets, after all – so why not?
After three nights you will leave feeling refreshed, energised and inspired, with a toolkit to continue it at home – a true investment in your wellbeing.
Your trip gallery
Your host: Marja Putkisto
Marja Putkisto is a highly specialised wellbeing coach who splits her time between London and Finland, where she’s also something of a national treasure. She specialises in stretching and movement as a foundation of health, beauty and longevity. This belief led her to create the world-renowned Method Putkisto programme, a precise method of deep stretching, strengthening and breathing.
A naturally engaging storyteller, she delivers ‘the science bit’ of her programmes in a creative, fun and edgy way that is instantly relatable – and, you’ll be pleased to hear, easily adopted. Be prepared for your time with Marja to include stretching your mind as well as physical muscles you may have forgotten you’ve got. Expect the unexpected – and embrace it in her relaxed and empathetic company.
Method Putkisto
Method Putkisto is a precise method of deep stretching, strengthening and breathing. Described as going ‘deeper than Pilates’ by Harpers and ‘Finnish yoga’ by the Times, it helps you make in-depth improvements to your body shape and overall wellbeing including sleep quality, balance and stress levels.
A Natural Face Clinic, included in this trip, introduces you to face-lifting exercise that promises to not only have aesthetic benefits, but also reduce brain fog (neuro-plasticity of the brain, if you want to get scientific).
What’s not to love?
Hotel St George
Hotel St George is the city’s five-star centre of luxury and holistic care of mind and body combining sustainability, art and design. Within its 19th century surrounds you’ll find a state-of-the-art spa, award-winning bar and, of course, a bakery. Situated in the heart of the city next to the Old Church Park, the hotel is just a stroll from the city centre. ‘St. George Care’ spa is rather less clinical than the name suggests, offering guests a sauna, steam room, swimming pool, cold plunge pool, and a unique Neurosonic lounge. The hotel is home to an impressive collection of contemporary Finnish and Chinese art and you’ll find the Wintergarden bar a suitably stylish spot for cocktails. It’s all about balance, after all…
Your itinerary
Today’s highlights:
- Arrival!
- Welcome drinks
- Evening stroll
- Dinner at Olo
Private transfer to Hotel George.
18:00 Welcome drink in the Executive Lounge, with host Marja Putkisto who will talk you through the days ahead and the movement, mindfulness, and connection you can expect to experience.
18:45 Evening at leisure or light walk in the Esplanade park. Take a moment to breathe in the city, its unique blend of modern elegance and Nordic magic and some well deserved time for yourself.
20:00 Michelin-starred Olo showcases the very best of modern Nordic cuisine. Expect beautifully crafted tasting menus that celebrate seasonal Finnish ingredients from forests, lakes and coastlines, combining traditional flavours with contemporary techniques. Follow dinner with optional rooftop late drinks at Torni Hotel in the city.
Today’s highlights:
- Early morning city and harbour walk with Marja
- Helsinki design trail
- Lunch at Finlandia Hall overlooking Töölönlahti Bay
- Method Putkisto Body workshop with Marja
- Dinner at 10 Kerros
07:00 Early bird morning walk with Marja.
09:00 Breakfast at the hotel.
10:00 Discover Helsinki’s design treasures with visits to Katrin Atelier, Gullichsen shop and Helsinki’s Design Museum.
13:00 Lunch at Finlandia Cafe & Wine. Set within Alvar Aalto’s iconic Finlandia Hall, it is widely regarded as one of Helsinki’s most beautiful cafés. Overlooking the picturesque Töölönlahti Bay, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a light lunch while soaking up both the city’s architectural heritage and its stunning waterfront views.
14:30 Method Putkisto Body workshop at the George Hotel (1 hour) with Marja assisted by her team.
16:00 Spend the afternoon shopping with an optional visit to cult vintage store Urbani Legenda with a glass of fizz.
20:00 Dinner at 10 Kerros for contemporary Nordic cuisine, classic Finnish flavours and one of the best views in Helsinki.
Today’s highlights:
- Early morning city and harbour walk
- Morning harbourfront walk as the city wakes
- Esplanade browsing and Finnish design shoppin
- Market hall visit to pick up fresh local ingredients
- Private archipelago boat tour with swim stop
- Marja Putkisto workshop and reflection session
- Free time for Ateneum, Amos Rex or Oodi Library
- Seasonal dinner at Nokka with Nordic cuisine
07:00 Morning walk through the city streets and harbourfront as they come alive. Kickstart your day with more fresh air and outdoor exercise as you get to know more of Helsinki and its surroundings.
09:00 Return to the hotel for breakfast.
10:15 Browse Helsinki’s elegant Esplanade and discover iconic Finnish design brands, independent boutiques and stylish local treasures.
10:45 Shop for fresh local ingredients in Helsinki’s historic market hall to get all you need to enjoy lunch on the water.
12:00 Tour the archipelago by private boat, an unforgettable island-hopping adventure where you’ll have the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up the surrounding nature.
15:00 Marja’s Beautifying Meditative Workshop – a restorative workshop with Marja, combining mindfulness, beauty rituals and practical techniques to help you look and feel your best.
16:30 Enjoy some free time for art in Helsinki. Discover a cluster of inspiring venues just steps apart, from the classic collections at Ateneum to contemporary works at Amos Rex. Don’t forget to pause at Oodi, the city’s striking central library.
19:00 Reflect on the trip with Marja as she shares her key insights, the “big fat why”, and practical takeaways to bring home.
20:00 Seasonal dinner at Nokka, for an evening of Nordic cuisine with a modern twist.
Today’s highlights:
- Early morning walk
- Coffee at a charming waterside café
07:00 It’s your final chance to wake up alongside nature and explore more of Helsinki, this time on your own or with others from your group.
08:00 Breakfast at the hotel.
10:00 Farewell coffee at a pretty waterside café.
11:00 Private transfer to the airport, according to individual flight times.
Bid farewell to Helsinki and return to London, with a skip in your step, a renewed sense of vitality, and positive intentions.
Need to know
TRIP INCLUDES:
- Avandra host
- Welcome drink
- 3 x morning walk and outdoor stretch sessions
- 1 x 2.5 hour Method Putkisto Body & Face workshop
- Private boat tour of the archipelago and optional sea swim
- Private guided visit to a significant historical Suomenlinna
- Private vintage browsing and bubbly in Urbani Legenda
- Natural hydrotherapy in the Baltic sea
- Coastal saunas
- Happiness!
- Breakfast, lunches and dinners as specified.
TRIP EXCLUDES:
- International return flights to Helsinki
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance
- Meals not specified
- Gratuities
- Additional activities.
Are you ready for this experience?
£4,250 per person
Based on 10 members travelling
Email our specialist travel partner
Email one of our experienced travel advisors to create your perfect experience.
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Speak to one of our experienced travel advisors to create your perfect experience.
This trip is operated by Travel Seen. Itineraries subject to change and standard check in times apply. Please refer to full T&C’s here.