🇫🇮 Honka to build Finland’s largest CLT log hotel as Tornio-Haparanda rises as Lapland’s new hotspot

Honkarakenne Plc is developing Finland’s largest ever log hotel on the banks of the Tornionjoki River, a stone’s throw from the centre of Tornio. Tornio-Haparanda is fast becoming Lapland’s next travel industry hub: a direct train connection to Sweden, which may open later this year, would allow climate-conscious and international tourists to reach the city directly from Central Europe. The city’s hotels have been operating at near full capacity for several years, with occupancy rates exceeding 70% all year round. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

The planned log hotel will serve not only tourists but also business travellers who visit Tornio all year round because of the city’s thriving industrial sector. “There are four hotels in the centre of Tornio, but we lack a resort that is in keeping with the local style. Nowadays, international travellers want nature to be part of the accommodation experience and Honka’s modern architecture and CLT log material are ideal for this,” says Anni Lamomprom, Tourism Coordinator at Business Tornio. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Tourism in the Arctic area has expanded from traditional centres to new and attractive destinations, with Tornio, on the Finnish-Swedish border, being one of the emerging hubs of international tourism. The occupancy rate for hotels in Tornio is already exceptionally high for Finland, with notable increases in overnight stays for both Finnish and international travellers. A rail link to Sweden is slated for completion in 2026, enabling a direct connection between Tornio and Central Europe. The log hotel will be located a couple of minutes’ walk from Tornio railway station, further enhancing accessibility. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

The city’s economic vitality is supported by a diverse and strong industrial base, which in recent years has attracted significant investments to the region and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. Tornio’s attractiveness is further enhanced by its twin city, Haparanda, where visitors can experience both countries in a single trip and enjoy unique shopping destinations. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

The log hotel will be positioned as a pioneer in sustainable tourism. It will be located on the eastern banks of the Tornionjoki River, next to the historic Hannula Bridge, only 200 metres from the railway station and 500 metres from Tornio city centre. The design and consultancy company AINS Group has prepared an adaptable land use plan that can accommodate luxury, family, and business travellers alike. Further design plans include spa facilities, a traditional smoke sauna, and an outdoor pool in collaboration with future partners. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

When completed, the approximately 150-room hotel will be the largest log hotel ever built in Finland and will utilise Honkarakenne’s MultiStorey concept, enabling hybrid multi-storey construction from non-settling CLT logs. The concept offers excellent fire safety, acoustic performance, and healthy indoor air, combining durability with architectural design freedom. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Originally published on 20 January 2026 by Honkarakenne.

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