Kultaranta: Presidential Summer Retreat

Kultaranta, meaning 'Golden Beach,' is the summer residence of the President of Finland, located on the island of Luonnonmaa in Naantali. The estate offers a blend of historical significance and scenic beauty, making it a unique destination for tourists. The main building, a granite manor house, was designed in the National Romantic style by Lars Sonck and completed in 1916. Originally commissioned by Alfred Kordelin, a wealthy businessman, Kultaranta was acquired by the Finnish government in 1922 and has served as the presidential summer residence ever since. The tower of the building provides magnificent views of Naantali and the surrounding archipelago. Kultaranta boasts over 40 buildings within its 55-hectare grounds, including 32 hectares of forest and 15 hectares of parkland. The formal garden, designed by Svante Olsson and his son Paul Olsson, is one of Finland's first and best-preserved architectonic gardens, featuring trimmed shrubs and neoclassical garden buildings. The garden also incorporates elements of Finnish nature, such as rocky slopes and old pine trees. A modernist section called Ketju (Chain), designed by landscape architect Maj-Lis Rosenbröijer, was added in the 1960s. While the interior of the manor house is not generally open to the public, visitors can explore the meticulously maintained gardens, which feature flower gardens, pergolas, gazebos, and fountains. Guided tours of the gardens are available during the summer months, providing insights into the history of the estate.