Best Western Hotelli Sommelo

Kuusankoski’s best (and only) hotel

The opening of Hotel Sommelo – as far as I know around 1982 – must have made a huge impact in the small town of Kuusankoski: 89 bedrooms, bars and function rooms, all in a purpose-built structure built and equipped to a very high standard. In fact, so high was the quality of fixtures and fittings that many of them still seem to be in use today. Whereas most Finnish hotels renovate constantly and tirelessly, whether it's needed or not, Sommelo’s policy seems to be more ‘fix it when it breaks’. Of course this is good from an ecological perspective but it does mean that the decor is several decades past its sell-by date and, from time to time, things DO break (showers, TVs, lights, etc.). The hallway carpets are presumably kept for sentimental reasons, and they do pong a bit.

Having said that, I have always been very comfortable here and have greatly enjoyed my stays. Most of the rooms are of a good size and quiet; the beds are comfortable too. The staff are pleasant; breakfast is ample and compares pretty well with that available in much larger hotels.

The hotel regularly organizes evening entertainment, although much of it is best suited to people who (1) are profoundly familiar with Finnish popular culture and (2) have been claiming their old-age pensions for some considerable time.

Note: this hotel is no longer a Best Western, but is part of Avainhotellit.

Unique Quality: Sommelo’s situation on the banks of the Kymi river is just about an ideal location in Kuusankoski, adjacent to the Kuusankoski Hall (where most of the town’s events take place) and close to shops. There is plenty of parking space.

One serious omission for a modern hotel is the lack of in-room internet facilities - especially if the hotel aims to cater for business guests.

Advice: if you arrive late at night or on Sunday afternoon, make sure you have the entry access code because reception is then closed.

• Opinion of Price: N/A

Best Western Hotelli Sommelo Photo: Hotel Sommelo

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