The history and stories of Haikko

The history of Haikko Manor dates back to the 14th century

In 1362, the Haikko Manor belonged to the Dominican Monastery of Vyborg. Jöns Olavinpoika later purchased the estate, and the Stenbock family held ownership of the manor for the following 400 years.

Although the estate remained under the Stenbock family for four centuries, surnames changed over time, as the manor was often inherited by daughters. From 1853 to 1871, the manor was owned by the Wallenius brothers. Their half-sister, Aurora Karamzin, was not only a prominent socialite but also a noted philanthropist, best known for founding the Helsinki Deaconess Institute.

In 1871, the manor was sold to General Sebastian von Etter, who served in the army of Emperor Alexander II. Under von Etter’s ownership, the manor entered an era of grandeur and elegance. If its walls could speak, they would surely reveal the secrets of many notable guests. Visitors included members of the Russian imperial family, Marshal Mannerheim, poet J. L. Runeberg, and artist Albert Edelfelt. Enchanted by Haikko’s seaside landscapes, Edelfelt built a small summer studio near the manor. He returned from Paris each summer to paint many of his most significant works there.

1871–1966

The von Etter era

In 1871, General Sebastian von Etter—distinguished for his service in the Russo-Turkish War—purchased Haikko Manor. The estate remained in the von Etter family for nearly a century. During this era, members of the Russian imperial family were frequent guests at Haikko. The photo shows Manor residents engaged in social gathering.

The Romanov visit

In 1917, amidst the turmoil of the Russian Revolution, Grand Duke Kirill Vladimirovich fled to Haikko Manor with his wife and daughters. That same year, their son was born in Porvoo and christened Vladimir at the Manor. He would later become the head of the Romanov family, which had dispersed across the globe. Vladimir returned to Haikko for a visit in 1991.

Fires through history

Haikko Manor’s history has also seen its share of drama. Over the centuries, the Manor was destroyed by fire five times. The first blaze was set by the Danish navy in 1508, and Russian forces were responsible for three more, including during the Great Northern War in the early 18th century. The most recent fire occurred in 1911, caused by a drunken stablehand who had been dismissed from service.

The present Manor House

The current main building of Haikko Manor was designed by Professor Armas Lindgren and dates back to 1913. In 1965, Satu and Leo Vuoristo purchased the Manor, which was then in poor condition. The following year, in 1966, it reopened as Finland’s very first manor hotel. Original architectural drawings were discovered in the archives, and the Manor was restored to its former glory in accordance with the original plans.

Stories of Haikko

There are many interesting stories circulating about Haikko Manor due to its long history.

1973–2023

Satu continues alone at the helm

Leo Vuoristo passed away on 17.7.1973 after a period of illness. After recovering from her grief, Satu Vuoristo took over as CEO of the family company. She also held positions of trust in numerous social and cultural organizations. In 1977, she was awarded the honorary title of Kauppaneuvos (Commercial Counsellor) in recognition of her contributions.

Opening of the Spa Hotel

The spa hotel was completed in 1974 and inaugurated with great ceremony in the presence of President Urho Kekkonen. The Congress Center was inaugurated in 1983, with an expansion added in 1989. In 1999, a Japanese-inspired Yorokobi pool area—featuring jacuzzis for adult relaxation—was opened.

Veikko Vuoristo becomes CEO

In 1975, Satu met Mika Tiivola, CEO of Union Bank of Finland, and the two later married. Satu, now Satu Tiivola, continued to lead the family business. The couple enjoyed their life together until Mika’s passing in 1994. They shared many interests, including a passion for exercise and wellness. When Satu Tiivola turned 90 in 2014, the staff gifted her a rose garden on the manor grounds.

The Vuoristo children, Katriina and Veikko, also worked for the family company. In 1983, Veikko Vuoristo was appointed CEO and later purchased Katriina’s shares in the business. Satu Tiivola continued as Chair of the Board well into the 2000s and remained actively involved with the company as late as 2022.

Villa Haikko is completed

Many still remember the large event tent that once stood in Haikko Manor Park. In 2008, it was replaced by the elegant seafront Villa Haikko, now used for celebrations and corporate events. That same year, a multi-purpose outdoor sports area called Haikko Arena—with a mini stadium—was also built. In early 2009, hotel renovations added 46 stylish superior rooms to the spa hotel, designed to meet the needs of even the most discerning guests.

Renovation of the Manor rooms

In spring 2013, the manor’s guest rooms and public spaces underwent a comprehensive renovation. The luxurious, updated manor rooms and suites quickly gained popularity among business travellers and guests attending special occasions.

Spa Hotel refurbishment

In 2015, the Spa Hotel’s rooms were upgraded, the lobby received a modern redesign, and the Spa Shop was expanded. A new Lobby Bar was also opened, enhancing the guest experience.

A new owner for Haikko Manor

On 30.10.2023, North European Invest Oy—owner of Lapland Hotels, Finland’s largest private hotel chain, and Lapland Safaris, the Nordic region’s largest activity service provider—acquired all shares of Vuoristo-Yhtiöt Oy, the company operating Haikko Manor. Ownership of the property company Haikon Kartano Oy also changed hands at the same time.

Today, the 211-room hotel is best known for its diverse restaurant, conference, celebration, and spa services. The change of ownership will not affect day-to-day operations, and guests can continue to expect the same high standard of hospitality.

Satu Tiivola (1924–2023)

Satu Tiivola, founder of Hotel Haikko Manor, passed away on 7.12.2023. The hotel was like a child to her. She personally designed the interiors and travelled throughout Europe in search of the 1830s-style furniture she so admired for the hotel’s public spaces.

At its peak, the hotel employed over 170 staff, whom Satu considered like family. She guided them with meticulous attention to detail and hospitality. Remarkably, she visited Haikko the day before her fatal stroke, delighted by the beauty of the surroundings and the cheerful atmosphere. She gave several interviews about the business sale shortly before her passing.