Iloranta, a coutryside tourism destination in Hauho, has proven that even a small Finnish travel company can succeed on a European level by offering authentic experiences and innovative services. The family-owned business earned the prestigious title of ‘Best Farm Accommodation 2024 – Southern Finland’ at the European Travel Awards, organized by EU Business News. The award is a testament to Iloranta’s long-term, high-quality operations in rural tourism. The level of the competition is also highlighted by the fact that last year, Moominworld was awarded as the best family vacation destination. See all winners of the 2024 European Travel Awards >>
Recognition elevates Iloranta to the forefront of rural tourism
European recognition places Iloranta at the top of sustainable and authentic countryside tourism in Finland and demonstrates its competitiveness on a European level. It emphasizes Iloranta’s commitment to quality services and unique experiences and strengthens the company’s position as a pioneer in Finnish rural tourism. Iloranta has successfully combined traditions with modern travel trends, showing that even smaller operators can gain international recognition by offering authentic, local experiences in a sustainable way while continuously innovating. This balance between respecting traditions and forward-looking development is the cornerstone of Iloranta’s success.
Iloranta’s entrepreneur Samu Lescelius commented on the award: “We are very honored by this recognition. The award we received shows that Finnish countryside tourism has great potential in the international market as well. We warmly thank all our customers, staff, and partners, some of whom have been part of our journey for decades.”
The award acknowledges Iloranta’s unique offerings, such as:
- Authentic Finnish farm experiences with a full-board concept
- Preserving and sharing local cultural heritage
- Exceptional hospitality spanning four generations
- Commitment to sustainable development and environmentally friendly practices
- Year-round activities showcasing the beauty of Finnish nature
This recognition not only celebrates Iloranta’s current success but also its rich history, dating back to 1937 when it first opened its doors to guests. Today, as a fourth-generation family business, Iloranta continues to combine traditional Finnish hospitality with modern comforts, offering an authentic rural experience just a 90-minute drive from Helsinki.
“The award motivates us to keep innovating while staying true to our roots,” adds Lescelius. “We are committed to providing unforgettable experiences where our guests can experience the beauty of nature, the uniqueness of Finnish culture, and find a unique space for relaxation and recovery.”
Iloranta – authentic Finnish rural experience with diverse learning
Located by Lake Iso-Roine in Hauho, Kanta-Häme, Iloranta is a family-owned rural tourism destination offering authentic farm experiences and full-board holidays. Over its 85-year history, Iloranta has combined traditional values with modern comforts. With the full-board concept, guests enjoy accommodation, authentic Finnish dishes and a variety of activities. The over five-hectare area of Iloranta uniquely combines traditional rural experiences with modern amenities. The area features attractions like a small viking village and a sauna world with traditional smoke sauna, as well as a modern gym and tennis courts.This versatile combination offers numerous activity options, from traditional farm experiences “The award motivates us to keep innovating while staying true to our roots,” adds Lescelius. “We are committed to providing unforgettable experiences where our guests can experience the beauty of nature, the uniqueness of Finnish culture, and find a unique space for relaxation and recovery.”to sports and forest and lake excursions.
Iloranta serves a wide range of customers from families to school camps and corporate groups, offering tailored experiences in a countryside setting. For both domestic and international educational travelers, Iloranta offers diverse opportunities to learn about Finnish nature, culture, and sustainable lifestyle in a practical way. Guests feel like they’ve arrived at grandma’s house, where the authenticity and warmth of old times offer a calming contrast to the busy pace of everyday life. At Iloranta, guests can enjoy the peace of nature, participate in various activities, and experience genuine Finnish culture with warm and friendly hospitality.
More information about Iloranta: iloranta.fi | sales@iloranta.fi | +358 50 343 7770
European Travel Awards highlights tourism innovations and sustainability
The European Travel Awards, organized by EU Business News, is a prestigious competition now in its third year. The competition aims to recognize and reward the most innovative, excellent, and dedicated players in the European tourism industry. It focuses particularly on companies that are innovating the tourism industry by offering unique experiences, advanced technology, sustainable development, and personalized services. The competition covers a wide range of tourism operators, such as hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, and transportation service providers. Participation in the competition is not self-nominated but happens through either external nominations or potential candidates identified by EU Business News’ research team.
Awards Coordinator Melissa Bramall has commented on the success of our winners: “We’ve seen growth year on year as the travel industry continues to grow at an exponential rate, and it’s a delight to recognise and award those who are dedicated to the longevity of such an important industry. Congratulations again, and we can’t wait to see what you all do next.”
Links:
European Travel Awards 2024 winners >>
European Travel Awards 2024 publication >>
EU Business Newsin article about Iloranta >>
EU Business News press release >>
More about European Travel Awards >>