The large Säynätsalo Town Hall is on an island 10km southeast of Jyväskylä. It’s one of Aalto’s most famous works, the architect having won an international competition in 1949 to design it. The sturdy tower, brick steps and dim light of this ‘fortress of democracy’ recall a castle, but the grassy patio reflects a relationship with nature that is present in much of Aalto’s work. Two rooms (r €45) are available here; they are furnished with Aalto chairs and stools and named after the man and his second wife, who often slept here while supervising construction. They are singles (although extra beds can be put in), share a bathroom, and have simple kitchen facilities.
