Scan Magazine, Issue 116, September 2018 by Scan Client Publishing

SEPTEMBER 2018 ISSUE 116 PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

RACHEL BRATHEN – THE WORLD’S FAVOURITE YOGA GIRL SWEDISH SPA AND WELLNESS SPECIAL A TASTE OF DENMARK DANISH AND FINNISH CULTURE SPOTLIGHT

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Enjoy some liquid guilty pleasures of the cocktail world, or join us in our hidden bar in the basement to ponder over world problems. (a percentage is donated to charity)

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Scan Magazine | Contents

Contents

COVER FEATURE 20

sustainable fashion to truly innovative eye health protection for children. While there, we took a trip to the mountains as well…

Rachel Brathen – The World’s Favourite Yoga Girl When Rachel Brathen first tried yoga, it was a slow enough love story. But once she moved to Aruba and decided to become Yoga Girl, it all happened quickly, and today she is one of Sweden’s biggest wellness profiles. Scan Magazine spoke to her about building the brand, combining motherhood with entrepreneurship, and the importance of sound mental health.

We dive head first into the world of Danish food and learn that you can expect more of this outstanding culinary nation than just smørrebrød and New Nordic Cuisine.

Design Gifts from Scandinavia From custom-made wooden furniture from Denmark to heavenly fragrances from Sweden, we list some of our current favourites on the Scandinavian design scene and help you find the perfect gift for the Scandi-lover in your life.

BUSINESS 86

SPECIAL THEMES 24

Swedish Spa and Wellness Special Eastern influences, stunning design and a keenness to kick back and relax all combine to create wonderfully peaceful and amazingly fun spa and wellness experiences all across Sweden. This guide ensures that you can get pampered this autumn – in simple silence or abundant luxury, whether with a gang from work or all on your own.

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Best of Norway This month, we are celebrating the pioneers that are taking Norwegian design to new heights: from

A Spotlight on Danish and Finnish Culture From the peninsula at the top of mainland Europe to the Nordic country of a thousand lakes right next to Russia, there is quality culture to enjoy. We list a few must-see destinations, including a legendary art gallery at the heart of Jutland and a spectacular dance theatre in Turku.

DESIGN 8

A Taste of Denmark

Innovation Spotlight From the Internet of Things (IoT) to kinetic energy storage solutions, the innovation coming out of the Nordic region abounds. We spoke to some of the passionate people behind the scenes.

CULTURE 116 A Culture-packed Autumn Karl Batterbee, aka Scandipop, may be reminiscing about sunshine with the help of summer bangers, but there is no need to wish away the present as there is no end to the exciting happenings taking place this autumn in the name of Nordic culture.

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 3

HIKING 10,000 YEARS OF ICE AGE HISTORY

THE ARCHIPELAGO TRAIL IN DENMARK STRETHCES 220 KM THROUGH ONE OF THE BIGGEST FLOODED ICE AGE LANDSCAPES IN THE WORLD

The South Fyn Archipelago consists of more than 50 small islands, most of which can be reached by small ferries. Photo: Moving Nature, Andreas MÃ¸rck

Hikers are welcomed by both hotels and private B&Bs, or can seek shelter for the night in their own tents or in these innovative shelters provided in several places along the coast. Photo: Visit Fyn, Mette Johnsen.

Follow the Archipelago Trail (Øhavsstien) to experience a varied walking tour all the way around the South Fyn Archipelago in Denmark. The trail is 220 km long and leads you through truly remarkable areas of countryside and fascinating cultural landscapes. The entire area makes up a typical and distinctive ice age landscape. You are sure to encounter meltwater valleys, lateral moraines and hat-shaped hills, as well as a stretch of sea dotted with around 50 small islands – all in all, one of the biggest flooded ice age landscapes in the world. The landscape bears witness to 10,000 years of human cultivation and culture, and it is the ambition that the area will have gained the status as UNESCO Global Geopark within three years. Here, the nobles built impressive manor houses and estates, while peasant farmers and fishermen toiled to provide for their families. From here, sailors put out to sea to explore the world and people dreamed of – and created – a better society. You will often find yourself walking the border between cultivated land and the coast. This is where the contrast between culture and nature is most remarkable, inspiring and thought-provoking. The Archipelago Trail is carefully sign-posted and welcomes all types of hikers. While robust footwear is a must, there are no steep cliffs to scale but only some gentle hills to ramble up and down. Nonetheless, the balanced mix of nature, culture, tranquil island environments and the fresh air of the sea will make most hikers return to the South Fyn Archipelago.

For more information about the trail, accommodation and transport, please visit www.thearchipelagotrail.com

The coastline is renowned for its seatrouts. Photo: Naturaaktiv.com

Several stretches of the trail consist of coastline; a demanding but unforgettable hiking experience. Photo: Naturturisme I/S

Dry feet are not a guarantee. Photo: Naturaaktiv.com

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, The back-to-school time can be one of excitement and clarity, as we settle into routines again and make plans for the school year ahead. But it can also be one of stress and anxiety, especially if the dark evenings play tricks with your mood and the mere thought of lunch boxes gives you palpitations. Perhaps this time of year, more than ever, we need to practise self-care and self-compassion. I found it fascinating that this month’s cover star, Aruba-based Swede Rachel Brathen, better known as Yoga Girl, committed to a new morning ritual and daily dedicated ‘me time’ after becoming a mother – for many people the time when self-care and privacy go out the door. But as a global yoga guru and blogger, and founder of the wellness platform oneOeight, she probably has a thing or two to teach us – not least about a holistic approach to yoga and mental health.

places to go in Norway to soak up stunning nature and to just get away from it all. I belong to the former aforementioned category: I thrive on routine and enjoy cosying up on the couch on a dark autumn evening, even if it is for a spot of nighttime work with the laptop. Whichever type you are, and whatever this autumn brings you, I hope you will remember what Rachel Brathen said: putting yourself last is never the healthy option. I wish you a caring, compassionate autumn – and an enjoyable read!

Linnea Dunne, Editor

This issue of Scan Magazine presents ample opportunities for everything from pampering to home-based self-care rituals. I feel relaxed and grounded just thinking about the fantastic spa resorts we have explored. But not everyone likes massages and hot tubs, so in order to cater for all needs we decided to also list some of our favourite food spots in Denmark, in addition to a few

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6 | Issue 116 | September 2018

PAGURUS SHELLFISH CUTLERY PAGURUS Shellfish diningSHELLFISH made easy; CUTLERY www.pagurus.no www.pagurus.no

Shellfish dining made easy; Norwegian design and innovation at its best. Norwegian design and innovation at its best.

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary… Time to begin the transition into cooler weather as autumn approaches. Go for darker colours like burgundy, blue, or green, mixed with earthy tones, and layer up for comfort. Anyone else now looking forward to getting cosy? By Ingrid Opstad | Press photos

This burgundy Oxford shirt is the ideal garment for autumn and its colder weather. Made from cotton in a regular fit, the Timothy shirt from Wood Wood features a classic collar, W.W. engraved buttons and a discreet tone-in-tone W.W. embroidery. Wood Wood, ‘Timothy’ shirt, £110 www.woodwood.com

Famous for their great denim and cool vibe, Stockholm based Cheap Monday know all about Scandinavian style jeans. A pair of these Sonic jeans is truly a wardrobe must-have. The unwashed darkblue finish in organic cotton and comfort stretch fabric is perfect for this time of year. Cheap Monday ‘Sonic’ unwashed jeans, £49 www.cheapmonday.com

Johnnylove combines a masculine touch with clean, straight lines. Inspired by the Norwegian unpredictable weather, their outerwear has hidden functionality. Combine the Jackson blue wool jacket with the Baker orange knitted sweater, to be protected from the weather while remaining stylish. Johnnylove, ‘Jackson’ wool jacket, approx £445 Johnnylove, ‘Baker’ sweater, approx £195 Johnnylove, ‘Freese’ beanie, approx £53 www.johnnylove.com

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The keywords for the Paul lace-up trainers are wearable and versatile. Crafted from bottle-green suede with a matching outsole for a monochrome look, they are a sartorial lifesaver that can be worn with anything at anytime. Vagabond ‘Paul’ bottle-green suede shoes, £85 www.vagabond.com

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary Fit right in with the changing colours of the new season by mixing burgundy, red and pale pink. We love the look of this comfy oversized knitted jumper, an item that will come in very handy in the coming months. Team up with a fun, textured skirt, like this one with a snakeskin effect. Selected Femme, ‘Hai’ knit jumper, approx £145 Selected Femme, ‘Stella’ skirt, approx £224 www.selected.com The Edith leather bum bag from Swedish brand P.A.P is the ultimate mini-bag as it is so versatile. Use it as a bum bag or a cross body bag depending on your needs that day. Great when travelling, at festivals, to accompany your casual outfit, or in a more formal setting. Available in a range of colours. P.A.P ‘Edith’ leather bum bag, approx £136 www.papsweden.se

Even though autumn is at the door, there is no need to pack away your summer dresses just yet. Just add a pair of tights and a cardigan to this silvery crepe twist dress by Ganni, and you are ready to face the cooler temperatures in style. Ganni silvery crepe twist dress, £170 www.ganni.com

Brighten up any outfit with a pair of red suede shoes. The Olivia from Vagabond ankle boot, crafted from soft, plum-coloured suede, is a real statement piece. With its pointy toe, sleek silhouette and sophisticated look, it is the perfect addition to your wardrobe this autumn. Vagabond, ‘Olivia’ red plum suede boots, £100 www.vagabond.com

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 9

Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this… Whether you need a gift for a friend’s birthday, an anniversary, a wedding, or you are just getting ahead of schedule with your Christmas presents, here are a few ideas we think are perfect for the Scandinavian-design lover in your life. Show them you care with something unique and special that they can treasure. By Ingrid Opstad | Press photos

For the Scandinavian-design lover who may already have everything, why not gift this beautiful four-piece set of small accessory objects by Copenhagen-based designer Kristina Dam? A source of continual inspiration composed of a circular paperweight in stoneware, a triangle bookend in marble, a wooden cone and an arc in brass. Great to rearrange and reposition in your home. Kristina Dam Studio desk sculptures, £116 www.kristinadam.dk

With its minimalist and artistic look, the Collar cocktail shaker and measuring cup is an absolute must-have for any Scandi lover who likes to throw a party. As a part of the popular Nordic series by Stelton, which represents the Scandinavian way of living with a ‘less is more’ attitude, this matte-coated black cocktail shaker has an elegant silhouette and comes with an integral sieve, brass-coloured lid and a beautiful measuring cup. Stelton ‘Collar’ cocktail shaker & measuring cup, £69.95 www.stelton.com

Say it with flowers... or, in this case, a flower vase! The Love Song vase from Kähler is a great way to show someone you love them. The vase is designed in raw and untreated earthenware material, contrasting with the warm and gentle words of love imprinted on it. Available in a range of colours and sizes, each vase is unique since they are all handmade. Kähler, ‘Love Song’ vase mini, £24.90; vase small, £39.90; vase medium, £49.90; vase large, £64.90 www.kahlerdesign.com

You can never go wrong with candles, especially in this lovely gift set titled ‘hjem’, widely recognised as meaning ‘home’ across Scandinavia. This box combines three of the most popular living-oriented fragranced candles from Skandinavisk, and is a great way to display the Scandinavian art of fellowship and cosiness within the calming sanctuary of home. Skandinavisk ‘Hjem’ mini gift set, £40 www.skandinavisk.com

This adorable wooden Monkey designed by Kay Bojesen for Rosendahl has become a famous Danish classic. The popular present can be found on many wish and wedding lists, but is also a great gift for all other kinds of special occasions. The hooked hands and feet mean the monkey is very versatile − you can find it hanging around in all sorts of places. Available in four sizes, with the mini version as the newest addition launched in 2017. Kay Bojesen, ‘Monkey’ mini, £60; small, £125; medium, £398; large, £1,474 www.kaybojesen-denmark.com

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Scan Magazine | Design Profile | THEGOODWOOD

Bespoke Danish furniture The sky is the limit when it comes to the creative solutions, astounding furniture and beautiful decorations that the Danish company THEGOODWOOD create on a daily basis for their clients. Their high-quality wooden furniture is sure to give any home or office an extra touch of splendour. By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: THEGOODWOOD

THEGOODWOOD ensure that compromises never have to happen, when it comes to the pieces you want. The bespoke furniture that they create for their clients is not only beautiful, but also provides a centre piece for the home or office. They collaborate closely with their clients, creating furniture that has a good story behind it.

“We often use 3D visualisation when working with clients, especially when it is for companies, as it often helps both parties to imagine what a space will look like. Throughout the production, we also send images to the client, so they can see what they’re getting. That way, we can make sure that you’re actually paying for something you truly love.”

Their customer service levels are high, and they take pride in the products that they make. “When a customer approaches us, we always start by trying to get into their heads, so that we can find out not only what they want, but also what they need,” says Jimmi Sørensen, founder of THEGOODWOOD.

From small to big

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THEGOODWOOD produces anything the heart can desire from small wall hooks and chopping boards to storage and flooring. They take a lot of care with the wood they use, ensuring that it is high-quality and the right type of wood for the purpose. They also use a lot of

reclaimed wood, that people may bring along with them and wish to upcycle into a new item for their home. “Everything is tailormade to the space, client and purpose. We’re always open to trying new things and pushing the limits. It’s incredible seeing how happy our clients are with what we make for them, and it’s lovely knowing that what we’ve made will stay with them for many years. It’s all about creating captivating furniture that people will love,” concludes Jimmi Sørensen. Sørensen. Started in 2013 by Jimmi Sørensen. Deliver globally. Web: www.thegoodwood.dk Instagram: @thegoodwood_dk Facebook: the good wood

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Hallbergs Belysning

SAS Lounge. Photo: SAS

Turn the lights on During three generations of artisanship, a unique sense for lighting and design grew in the family-owned business of Hallbergs Belysning. What first started in the small locality on the west side of the river Viskan outside Borås, is now shedding light all over Scandinavia.

in Sweden, with closeness to materials and competence, we have the possibility to not only provide a function, but a full concept too,” Rosengren says.

By Hanna Stjernström | Photos: Hallbergs Belysning

The business continues to grow while the company has remained true to its local roots and traditions of manufacturing in their factory in Viskafors. Together with the knowledge that has been gathered within those four walls, it is evident what makes Hallbergs Belysning so successful. Every lampshade made holds competence collected during decades. When they encounter the trends of today, there are endless opportunities in every room to become a little brighter. Little did Ture Hallberg know that the small business that he started in his kitchen over seven decades ago would one day light up rooms across the whole of Scandinavia.

The story about Hallbergs Belysning started over 70 years ago in a kitchen in Rydboholm, a small locality outside Borås in the southwest of Sweden. The first lampshade was handmade by Ture Hallberg for his own home and this was the starting moment of what would later become Hallbergs Belysning. The lampshades were made by home workers with locally woven material from the flourishing textile industry in Borås, also known as ‘the textile town’. With time, the demand for the custom-made lampshades grew higher and the company moved across the river to Viskafors, to a larger facility with bigger opportunities. Although the company changed location, it remains a family business with the younger generation’s Daniel

Rosengren and his uncle Sören Hallberg at the steering wheel. “We have enormous opportunities,” Daniel Rosengren says, when asked about what he is most proud of, and adds: “I usually say that there are no limits.” This optimism and drive have taken the company’s designs into several well-frequented rooms across Scandinavia, often as the interior piece that completes the room. Because Hallbergs build per order, the spectrum ranges from a circus-themed ceiling light in the Swedish restaurant Pinchos, to the 170-centimetre-wide lampshades in the airline SAS’s airport lounges across the world. “Thanks to our manufacturing

Web: www.hallbergsbelysning.se Instagram: @hallbergsofsweden

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 13

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | DOFTA

Heavenly fragrances from Sweden Rapidly growing Swedish brand DOFTA makes luxurious scented products: pure home and body fragrances for the ultimate sense of comfort and wellbeing.

and feel is more international, and we can see that our exclusive products are increasingly popular abroad.”

By Malin Norman | Photos: DOFTA

DOFTA has experienced strong growth since its foundation ten years ago, with constant development of new fragrances and coverage in popular blogs, press and on TV. All products and formulations are specially designed and made from scratch by creative director Anna Riller. DOFTA’s collections include perfumes, diffusers and scented candles, as well as body lotions and shower gels. Demonstrating its potential, DOFTA has been named one of the ten most interesting businesses in southern Sweden by Business Sweden, which is owned by 14 | Issue 116 | September 2018

the Swedish Government and aims to help companies expand internationally.

International look and expansion A lot is happening in the market and DOFTA continues to expand globally. Next up is a collaboration with a major player in Dubai, which holds extensive distribution across 19 countries. Following a revamp of the packaging a few years ago, the DOFTA look found its place. “We found our style with a more luxurious expression using elaborate packaging in white, black and gold,” says brand manager Carina Svensson. “The overall look

All DOFTA products are made by hand in Halmstad and come with a special quality guarantee. “This is Swedish craftsmanship,” confirms Svensson. “You can clearly

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | DOFTA

feel that the fragrances and raw materials are of the highest quality and with no added chemical substances. Our products are unique due to both their luxurious design and their pure quality – there really is nothing similar on the market.” One such example is the aromatic purifying lamps, which are based on patented technology that cleans the air on a molecular level. The lamps also gently release DOFTA’s signature fragrances from the specially developed purifying oils into the air. In particular, the lamp Fantasy Drop is like a work of art, made in beautiful hand-blown glass.

News in the DOFTA family Next season, DOFTA will launch more fragrance collections with a number of

new products. “We are focusing more on the premium segment,” confirms Svensson. “It all goes hand in hand, from the luxurious finish and sense of an exclusive product, to where we are seen and next to which other brands.” For instance, DOFTA is collaborating with Candle Room, the first shop to open its doors by the Arlanda Express platform at Arlanda Airport. Just in time for Christmas and an ideal gift for loved ones, DOFTA is also launching its Christmas Deluxe Collection in decorative red and gold packaging. “It’s a great collection with an amazing scent,” says Svensson, and continues: “Perfectly balanced, not too sweet. Those who have already had the chance to try it love it!”

The exclusive DOFTA range is available online and at selected retailers such as interior design and clothing stores, beauty salons, hairdressers and spas.

Web: www.dofta.com Instagram: @dofta

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 15

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | 8000c

8000c manufactures quality furniture for the retail and contract market.

Developing design Manufacturing all its products in Denmark, the Aarhus-located design company 8000c has created a large collection of stylish and functional furniture for the retail and contract market. The company’s close collaboration with designers and retailers means new products are continuously added, and older ones adapted to meet specific needs. By Signe Hansen | Photos: 8000c

Founded in 2007, 8000c supplies furniture for retail as well as restaurants, hotels, corporate headquarters and museums all over Europe. The broad focus requires the company’s designs to be both durable and beautiful, explains founder Søren Velling. “When I founded the company, I wanted to create furniture which would meet the durability requirements from the contract market, but would, at the same time, also live up to the retail market’s design standards.” Working with a number of Danish designers including Hee Welling and HolmbäckNordentoft, Velling has done just that; during the last decade, 8000c has supplied furniture and interior design to a wide range of clients, from Danish schools to major corporations. In recent years, a partnership with the London-based company Icons of 16 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Denmark, has led to an increasing number of large international projects. In each project, 8000c works closely with architects and clients, and their requirements and input have helped shape and expand the company’s collection. “Our starting point is the high-quality design which is our trademark, but we also let current market trends affect our new products. It’s important for us to listen to our clients, the architects we work with and the retailers who sell our products,” says Velling. “One of the strengths we have is that our relatively small size makes it easy for us to quickly adapt and change our collection, and that’s one of the reasons we have had the success we have.” When met with specific requirements from clients, 8000c can quickly test the viability of changes in production as all

furniture is manufactured locally. “Apart from the flexibility, we also believe a local production ensures a better and more consistent quality of our products, and pretty much all our products are tested at Danish Technological Institute to ensure that they have the durability needed for their purpose,” stresses Velling.

Web: www.8000c.dk

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Exclusive-living

Customers can design the stylish outdoor kitchens from Exclusive-living to match their individual requests.

All-year-round alfresco cooking Outdoor cooking might be something most people associate with a spattering barbecue, charred sausages and a handful of iceberg lettuce. But in Denmark, one of the world’s most barbecue enthusiastic nations, a new trend of exclusive outdoor kitchens is taking things up a notch – or ten. By Signe Hansen | Photos: fh-teknik

As a result of the growing interest in outdoor cooking, the Danish company fh-teknik has launched Exclusive-living, a new website offering exclusive outdoor stainless-steel kitchens. Having worked with barbecue equipment and accessories for years, the company started branching into more sophisticated forms of outdoor cooking when it noticed an increase in the sale of natural gas valves. Owner and partner in fh-teknik, Johnny Baun Hansen, explains: “For many years, we’ve been selling equipment for gas and barbecues, mostly for bottled gas. But as we noticed the increasing number of gas grill taps being sold, we began looking for alternatives. Natural gas is easier, cheaper and cleaner, so that’s what started it.” As fh-teknik started trading the traditional methods for natural gas, the company also experienced an interest in more ad-

vanced outdoor set-ups. Hence, Hansen began looking into the possibility of finding an outdoor kitchen that could match the Danes’ famous love of style and quality. He succeeded, and, today, his company offers its customers the possibility of creating their dream kitchen − outside. “What we offer is an outdoor kitchen built up the same way you would with your regular kitchen. We can tailor everything to the requirements of our client − how many drawers they want, what kind of table surface, fridge, grill, gas hob and so on,” explains Hansen. All kitchen elements are made in stainless steel and are 100 per cent weatherproof. This also includes the colours, which are worked into the steel surface during a two-day-long process, which ensures their longevity even in direct sunlight. So, when many choose to have their exclusive outdoor kitchen in a cov-

ered patio, it is not for the sake of the kitchen, but for them to be able to enjoy it all year round. “The people who choose to invest in this kind of kitchen want to use it as much as possible,” says Hansen, and rounds off: “It’s a great way for the family and friends to come together and take part in the cooking experience.”

Web: www.exclusive-living.dk

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 17

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | OJL Jewelery

Classic trilogy series diamond rings in different shades of gold, by OJL Originals.

Burmese ruby ring detail.

Burmese ruby ring, design by OJL Originals.

Kaleidoscopic designs Jewellery is, by definition, a personal statement. But the design philosophy of Finnish label OJL Originals takes matters a step further with products that can be mixed and matched for countless combinations to signify milestones, memorable occasions or special emotions. By Jo Iivonen | Photos: OJL Originals

Stories, shape and emotion form the foundation of OJL Originals, a Finnish jewellery label known for its awardwinning designs that celebrate life through extensive customisation options. “What sets us apart is our design DNA and a drive to enable the expression of personal stories,” says second-generation jeweller Olli Johan Lindroos. “Our products are a representation of something significant in the shape of jewellery.” Growing up as the son of a jeweller gave Lindroos early exposure to craftsmanship. “As a kid, I loved spending time experimenting in the jewellery lab,” he explains. “Now I get to do the same but with the addition of modern technologies like 3D design.” Technological expertise, however, is just one side of the equation. “The most important thing is creating something,” Lindroos adds. “I aim to help customers explore their story through jewellery.” 18 | Issue 116 | September 2018

The trilogy ring collections, known as ‘collectibles’, are a core element of the business. All are available with a choice of one to three rings. By using an online kaleidoscope, customers can create a combination of rings to suit any moment in time – or add to an existing ring to signify another occasion. “I’m fascinated by how jewellery can grow and shift with its owner’s life,” Lindroos summarises. The purity characteristic of Finnish nature is written all over the design DNA of OJL Original Collectibles. This is also evident in the names of the current collections LUMI (snow), SADE (rain) and KIDE (ice crystal). Another special edition collection, COLORS OF FINLAND, was created after Lindroos discovered a batch of rare sapphires in various pastel shades in Antwerp. “The colours were so Finnish, I basically had to create a collection around them.”

Next up, OJL Originals will roll out an emotion-driven collection. The ILO (joy) collection of rings will be launched next month as an addition to the trilogy series. Lindroos, who is known to have travelled the world in search of rare gems that signify something particular, is looking forward to the expansion. “It’s incredibly rewarding to get to create something as important and deeply symbolic to people,” Lindroos concludes. “For me, it’s all about expressing emotion through design and shapes.” Olli Johan Lindroos.

Web: www.ojl.fi

Scan Magazine | Design Profiles | CDLP

Leading the boxer rebellion Created in Stockholm, Sweden, merely two years ago, this forward-thinking underwear brand is disrupting the market by challenging the preconception of what underwear really means to men. Successfully catering for the conscious, modern man who refuses to compromise on style or quality, the brand can now be found at industry leading retailers including Bergdorf Goodman, Matchesfashion.com, MrPorter.com and Nordiska Kompaniet. The idea of CDLP came to life while best friends Andreas Palm and Christian Larson travelled the world together, sharing hotel rooms and so undoubtedly getting to know each other’s underwear wardrobes. What they saw was uninspiring, low-quality underwear that really filled no other purpose than to be disguised by trousers. “I thought, ‘is this really what we as men have to settle for?’,” says the brand’s now CEO Andreas Palm. Convinced that the answer was a resounding ‘no’, Palm and Larson set out to create products that would allow men to view underwear the same way women had already done for decades, something that would not just be functional, but also stylish and empowering.

The CDLP product range includes underwear, socks and swimwear, all made with diversity and modern masculinity in mind. The products are clean looking with discreet branding and are made from lyocell, an almost 100 per cent sustainable material that is environmentally superior to standard cotton, as it uses considerably less water when produced. “The environmental aspect of CDLP is actually not something we actively thought about,” says Palm. “I simply believe that brands today have a responsibility and that thinking environmentally should just come naturally.” By identifying the need for well-fitting and good-looking underwear that men can be proud of, CDLP have gained fans across

By Emma Rödin | Photos: CDLP

the world, including Sweden’s prime minister. It is fair to say that the brand’s success is nothing less than a boxer revolution!

CDLP makes high-quality underwear, socks and swimwear for the modern man

Web: www.cdlp.com Facebook: cdlp Instagram: @cdlp

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Rachel Brathen

20 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Rachel Brathen

Rachel Brathen

The world’s favourite Yoga Girl When Rachel Brathen graduated from secondary school, she left Sweden for Central America. Little did she know that, all these thousand miles away, she would find a love for yoga, a home for her future family, and the determination to start what would grow into a hugely successful global wellness brand. Scan Magazine caught up with Yoga Girl to talk about mental health, life as a mother, and yoga as a tool for healing and wellness. By Linnea Dunne | Press photos

It is 5am and completely dark. The kettle is boiling. Rachel Brathen’s daughter will sleep for another couple of hours, but Brathen herself is up, makes a cup of herbal tea and sits down on the terrace to meditate. As the sun starts to rise, she gets onto the mat for some yoga – and when she feels done, she makes coffee and breakfast. “I’ve always been a night-owl, so making this shift has been hard. I love staying up late, chatting and drinking wine,” says Brathen. “But since Lea was born, I’ve had the realisation that I always prioritise her above everything else and above myself. I end up at the bottom of the list. When she’s well and happy, when the house is clean and my husband happy and all the work done, then maybe I’ll get to looking after myself – it’s not healthy. Getting up early means I have this time that’s just for me, completely uninterrupted, and then when she wakes I have a whole new calm and can focus on her 100 per cent.”

Finding support But her morning routine is not the only thing that has changed since Lea Luna came along, now 17 months ago. Brathen was in her late teens when she went to Costa Rica, a keen meditator with scoliosis and other back problems. Yoga was for nimble, agile people, she thought – not for her – but when someone mentioned that it would suit someone who likes meditation and that it might help her back pain, she agreed to give it a try. It was not the kind of love at first sight that some yogis describe, she recalls, but the fact that it was the first form of physical exercise that had not made her back worse meant that she kept it up. A couple of years later, she was practising yoga daily and loving it, and when colleagues started asking her for advice and tips, she ended up teaching small classes among friends. “I wasn’t a teacher as such; I just talked and they followed,” she says.

and wanted to start a new chapter, and I thought, ‘yoga is the best thing I know – that’s what I want to do’,” she explains. “So I started training to become a teacher, and the rest sort of took off from there.” The rest, in that context, is a prosperous, global business based around her brand Yoga Girl, with close to three million social media followers and a reputation as one of Sweden’s biggest wellness profiles. Now boasting a successful blog, her own book, podcasts, a YouTube channel, a range of retreats and workshops and an entire platform of online yoga tutorials for all levels and purposes, it is already huge – and growing.

Then she moved to Aruba, and a new life awaited. “I had my boyfriend there Issue 116 | September 2018 | 21

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Rachel Brathen

“It kind of got a life of its own at the beginning, and for a number of years I felt like I could never really keep up. It all happened too quickly and I was always one step behind,” she says. “I’m not very good at delegating; I like control. But when I got pregnant, I realised that I wouldn’t be able to give birth and be a new mother and do everything myself, so that’s when I started planning in a more structured way – everything from setting clear goals for what the brand should be to recruiting new staff to support me.”

Building a community Perhaps motherhood was a blessing for Brathen in more ways than one. Her holistic approach to yoga and openness in social media about her own mental health ups and downs led to a huge number of people sharing their own struggles with her, sometimes at times of great need. “All these people 22 | Issue 116 | September 2018

started opening up about difficult things they were going through; young girls with eating disorders, people who’d lost someone close to them, all these extremely difficult situations. I’d be there at night googling suicide hotlines and psychologists and healers – it was a lot of pressure,” she says. Since then, much thanks to the online wellness hub oneOeight, which launched in 2015, she now has the support of everyone from eating disorder experts to bereavement counsellors and relationship gurus, making sure that all the online community’s needs can be looked after appropriately. “It’s become more like a Netflix for yoga now, but initially, my vision for oneOeight was for it to bridge that gap and make sure that all these people who needed support could be looked after. And I think we’re doing that really well now, while also building a community,” Brathen says, adding that

many of the people who join the network are there for nothing but daily yoga and a way to bring their practice with them wherever they go, be it hotel rooms or their own home. “In the past, I would’ve carried a lot of this on my shoulders, but now, say in the retreats I teach, it’s the group that supports the group. When we say goodbye, they keep in touch forever.”

Feeling lucky The life she lives now on Aruba, very much combining family life with running her business, she sees as a blessing; she mentions how her peers in the US would get six weeks of maternity leave before returning to ten-hour working days. She has instead, as she puts it, “taken the Swedish model to the extreme”, by which she means that she only relies on childcare in as much as it feels right for Lea, also having a baby room in the studio and allowing the lines between the world of family and work to blur.

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Rachel Brathen

Yet while that balance is reasonably new, she does not regret opening up the way she has been and still does, despite the difficulties that brought on. “Mental health is the most important part,” she insists. “Plus, I realised early on that the more genuine I am, the more I’m able to connect with people. Social media can get quite shallow and unintimate – the more I give, the easier it is to create real bonds. The body is a great tool, and we can work with it to heal emotional wounds, but yoga is just a means; a means available to young and old, including those who are stressed or injured – a means available to everyone.” Rachel Brathen’s tips for beginner yogis: - Find a teacher or a studio where you can go in person. Yes, you can take yoga tutorials online, but it is so important in the beginning that you have a teacher you can learn from, especially if you have given birth or are in pain. The community you get at a studio is a wonderful thing too, and then you can mix it up with homebased yoga. - Focus on how it feels, not what it looks like or what you think it should be like. If it feels right, it likely is. All these photographs of super yogis on Instagram – ignore all that! - Nothing is more important than learning to breathe. Much of what we do on the mat, we can apply to life off the mat. When you are having a bad day, you can return to your breath and stop things spinning. Nothing is more valuable than that. - Start at your own pace. Be patient and consistent. It is better to practise once a week and do it properly than do it five times and then drop it. Give it time, at least a month, and you will feel the benefits.

Follow Rachel Brathen on Instagram: @yoga_girl Read the blog and find information about retreats and talks: www.rachelbrathen.com Join the oneOeight community: www.oneoeight.com

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 23

H IS SS D E NE lT ia W c S ELL e Sp P S TO D W CT U E N TH S A ROD A P SP e:

m he

Yasuragi. Photo: Markus Crepin

Drowning? Go to the water Ever get the feeling that you are drowning in must-dos? Today it is harder than ever to find time to just be. Unwind. Relax. But we know that this is what we need in order to stay focused and in balance. By Sara Hellgren, head of marketing at the Association of Swedish Spa Hotels

People have been going to the water since ancient times. Many used to believe that drinking water from wells, ‘drinking the cure’, had a medicinal effect, but nowadays we see that it was probably as much about getting away, taking a break, a change of atmosphere. The word ‘spa’ is thought to be short for Salus Per Aqua – Health Through Water. When visiting any of the Association of Swedish Spa Hotels’ 41 spa facilities you 24 | Issue 116 | September 2018

will receive the benefit of going to the water – even today. However, you may choose to enjoy a glass of Champagne instead of spring water and salute the choice to treat yourself to a well- deserved and welcome getaway; some zero-pressure time, to regain balance and energy for demanding times ahead. Web: www.svenskaspahotell.se

Sara Hellgren. Photo: Johan Melander

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Top Swedish Spas and Wellness Products

Orbaden. Photo: Orbaden Spa & Resort

Strömstad Spa. Photo: Petra Björstad

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Hotel Tylösand Does walking through a spa with the likes of She’s Got The Look playing in the background seem like something you might only experience in the spa of your dreams? Well, at Hotel Tylösand you can do just that. The Swedish west coast hotel is one of the very few prize-winning resorts that give you both relaxation and entertainment.

say, classical music. We have big screens in our pool area, so our guests can watch a film while relaxing in the water. Later, towards the evening, we broadcast musicals or music documentaries.”

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Pamela Hanné

The activities are endless, but you do not have to do them all in order to have a fulfilling stay. “When you’re here, you’re here, and there’s so much to do. We have 50 coached sessions per week, but we want our guests to do everything at their own pace. They can take a walk, enjoy the spa, take a round at the golf course, or just enjoy our bars and restaurants,” says Haglund.

“I once heard one of our guests talk on the phone and he said, ‘This is not an ordinary hotel, this is something extra.’ That’s exactly how I want our guests to feel,” says CEO Elisabeth Haglund. Hotel Tylösand has something for everyone, a social spa that combines entertainment with pleasure, an art gallery with photos from some of the best photographers in the world, two restaurants 26 | Issue 116 | September 2018

with quality products, and music that leads the way throughout the resort. Haglund confirms that music and entertainment are what bring the whole experience together. “When our guests arrive at the spa they get to pick the music they want to listen to. We have created a list with a mix of familiar tunes, like Roxette mixed with Frank Sinatra, but you can also pick your own and only listen to, let’s

Hotel Tylösand wants their guests to enjoy the whole experience, including every

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

meal served at the hotel. The resort has two restaurants; Leif’s Bar & Grill and Restaurang Tylöhus, led by chefs Henrik Andersson and Andreas Niklasson. Leif’s Bar & Grill gives you rock ‘n’ roll in a rustic setting, whilst Restaurang Tylöhus invites you to enjoy Swedish flavours with a west coast view. Haglund elaborates: “We focus a lot on the food, where it comes from, and the quality. We keep developing our restaurants and want to offer the best meals possible.” The resort’s tagline is Be Inspired. Hotel Tylösand wants businesses, companies, and guests to feel the energy flow, and for ideas to come with it. Every business trip or conference is built around the guests. Some want a long day of team building, with a relaxing spa evening afterwards, whilst some guests want a break midday, to take a walk or maybe a session in the gym. “We want it to be relaxed, even the

meetings. Once we had a group that wanted their own zumba course. Another time we hosted a kubb tournament in the middle of their visit. We are happy to create an experience that fits our guests’ needs,” Haglund says. With so many activities and things to see and do, you might wonder how they stay so close to their guests and maintain a personal approach. Haglund explains: “It is important for us to see the guests, to know what they want and to help them reach it. Some guests want to relax and combine their spa visit with nature. Others like a lively meal and a night out. We are looking for the perfect combination for each and every guest. Our staff is also well educated and passionate about the services we provide.” The resort proudly boasts that their art gallery is the biggest in Sweden,

and displays photographs by artists such as Terry O’Neill, Mary McCartney, Henry Diltz, and Anton Corbjin. The art is then featured throughout the resort and combined with what you can see outside the window. “We have Sweden’s biggest art gallery, but we also have art outside the window. The nature surrounding our hotel is truly a work of art.” Hotel Tylösand’s vision is clear: to give you that holiday feeling, any time of the year. “It doesn’t have to be 28 degrees, sunshine and summer, for our guests to really get into the holiday mood. We have an outside Jacuzzi, and to sit there while the snow is falling is just as relaxing as watching the waves hit the beach. We want to take our guests away from reality, like only a holiday does.” Web: www.tylosand.se

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Yasuragi’s authentic Japanese design helps to relax and soothe both body and mind.

An oasis of mindful tranquillity Situated amidst the natural beauty of the Stockholm archipelago, Yasuragi, the Japanese bath and hotel, has undergone a complete refurbishment. Taking direct inspiration from traditional Japanese bathhouses, Yasuragi offers an authentic experience, with every detail carefully chosen to soothe, relax and re-energise the senses. By Liz Longden | Photos: Markus Crépin

Housed in a building originally designed by Japanese architect Yoji Kasajima, the hotel and Japanese bath has been helping guests to relax the Japanese way since 1997. In January 2018, however, Yasuragi opened to a complete redesign – the result of a two-week trip to Japan, during which CEO Sunniva Fallan Röd and a team of architects visited traditional bathhouses across the country. Gone is the large, standard pool and in its place are several smaller bathing areas and places to calm body and mind, including hot and cold springs, a Japanese footbath and a carbonated spring. There are also a 28 | Issue 116 | September 2018

number of saunas, including a salt steam sauna and ‘sleep sauna’, where guests lie on heated slabs, as relaxing aromas carefully chosen to calm the nervous system drift across the warm air. “The really interesting thing is that even if you only sleep for a short time, it is an incredibly efficient sleep. It really is fantastically relaxing,” Fallan Röd explains.

phy of well-being through simplicity and calm. Guests are encouraged to slow down and step away from the frequently frantic pace of modern life. On arrival, each is given simple bathing clothes, a traditional cotton ‘yukata’ robe and slippers, which they are asked to wear instead of their own clothes.

A life philosophy

“Some guests do find it very strange at first, but it’s fascinating how well and how quickly they all take to it,” Fallan Röd notes. “So much of our daily energy and effort is focused on how we appear to others, and what others might think of us, but if everyone is wearing the same clothes then you can just let go of all that and focus instead on relaxing. And that is actually really nice.”

While the décor and facilities offer a luxurious aesthetic, this is no mere Japanese-themed spa. Instead, Yasuragi promotes a genuine, holistic philoso-

Even the fact that guests must wear slippers is a way of encouraging a more meditative and relaxed mentality. “At Yasuragi,

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

you are allowed to take your time and, in fact, you have to, because you can’t run in slippers,” Fallan Röd laughs. “Occasionally we have guests who find it frustrating that they can’t move more quickly, and actually it’s great when they tell us that, because then we have the opportunity to explain to them that it is the stress in their bodies which is the cause of those feelings of frustration.” Needless to say, the bathing area is a digital-free zone and guests are politely requested to keep their mobile phones switched off.

Taking responsibilty The Yasuragi philosophy of encouraging harmony through simplicity also extends to the wider environment and, as part of the 2018 refurbishment, Yasuragi has paid particular attention to sustainability. Some of the most striking changes relate to the food on offer. In order to dramatically reduce the hotel’s carbon emissions,

The food Yasuragi offers is conceived with harmony and sustainability in mind.

a new, strictly vegan restaurant has been introduced, while meat has also been taken off the menu in the à la carte restaurant. In the Teppanyaki restaurant, where each table has its own chef to prepare food in front of the guests, red meat is no longer served. “It has certainly caused a bit of a stir among guests and that’s a good thing, as far as we’re concerned,” says Fallan Röd. She adds: “A few years ago, we stopped serving bacon and a lot of guests really reacted to that, but we love it when we get comments, because then we can engage with our guests and actually explain why we are doing this.” Fallan Röd points out that simply removing bacon from the menu produced a reduction in carbon emissions equivalent to 11,000 car journeys between Stockholm and Yasuragi. “It is incredibly important that we all start to take responsibility for the impact we

make on the natural environment and we want to take a lead in that and start spreading that message further.” If proof were needed that peace, harmony and sustainability can go hand in hand, it came earlier this year, when Yasuragi was crowned Europe’s best Luxury Resort Spa at the 2018 World Luxury Spa Awards. “We’re incredibly proud. It’s something we’ve been working towards for a long time, and I think it comes down to the experience that we create for our guests,” says Fallan Röd. “It’s completely genuine – everything we do, every choice of material, and all the food we serve is designed to positively affect the senses and nervous system to promote wellbeing from the inside out, and I think that is something quite unique.” Web: www.yasuragi.se

Sunniva Fallan Röd. Photo: Jonas Koel

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Unwind in a charming old monastery The ever so charming Vadstena Klosterhotel unites old and new. With a past as a glamorous palace and then later a monastery, it is now an excellent spa hotel. A place where you can switch off and relax – and perhaps even find yourself somewhat.

to Rome. The spa concept at Vadstena Klosterhotel is based on that pilgrimage heritage and follows a number of key values such as simplicity and restraint.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Vadstena Klosterhotel

sanctuary for relaxation and inner peace. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation, a peaceful spa and an excellent restaurant, plus stunning surroundings for every opportunity to unwind.

During the first half of the 14th century, Vadstena Castle housed royal parties so glamorous they were the envy of Europe’s entire aristocracy. In 1350, Saint Bridget of Sweden took the palace and transformed it into a monastery, a stronghold for quiet, Spartan living.

Embrace the inner journey

These days, Vadstena Klosterhotel is still a meeting place just like in the old times, for work and parties, and also a

Thanks to Saint Bridget, the patron saint of Europe, Vadstena is an important pilgrimage site and you can, in fact, take a pilgrimage all the way from here

30 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Spa manager Sofia Lindholm emphasises Vadstena’s heritage and the importance of inner peace. “The spa world is packed with trends and pressure on how we should look and feel. Instead, we want our spa to reflect our history as a monastery and we offer activities that fit with our past.” In line with its core values, there are no magazines or advertising with the latest updates on health trends in the spa. As expressed by Lindholm, “we certainly

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

don’t want our guests to be overloaded with and feel any kind of pressure due to current trends. It should be about human values and tranquillity and we make sure to embrace our peaceful setting, working with nature and appreciating our wish as humans to find our way home.”

honey. The idea of being steeped in the monastery heritage is a crucial aspect of the ritual. A herb garden on the grounds boasts herbs and medicinal plants cultivated by, among others, Johan Päterson, Sweden’s first known gardener and one of Saint Bridget’s squires in Rome.

Take the time for treatments

Lindholm also explains that in an effort to provide a stress-free environment for its guests, the spa no longer focuses on short treatments. “Our treatments are a minimum of 45 minutes now, as we believe in the need to slow down. And we really want our guests to actually gain something from the treatments.”

In the spa, both day guests and those who are staying at the hotel can enjoy the salt water pool, warm spring, Jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, steam room with aromatherapy, treatment room, resting room as well as the café and bar. The spa only opened a few years ago but has already won two titles from the annual Spa Awards: Best Spa Kitchen and Best Newcomer.

Enjoy the good things in life

One of the most popular spa rituals is a head-to-toe treatment with elements of everything from aromatherapy and hot baths to mindfulness and yoga with essential oils and the spa’s own sauna

The hotel’s own restaurant uses local produce and herbs from the garden in its cooking, and wedding guests like to gather for a toast in the picturesque, fragrant setting. At the less Spartan, more extravagant end of the spectrum

is the well-stocked wine cellar of 4,000 bottles and the breakfast experience in the 13th-century former palace vaults. “It’s important to have rest and relaxation of course, but also to enjoy the good things in life,” smiles Lindholm. “Our guests appreciate the peaceful setting and the opportunities for pleasure.”

Web: www.klosterhotel.se Facebook: Klosterhotellet Twitter: @Klosterhotellet Instagram: @klosterhotellet

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 31

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Gothenburg’s coolest summer hangout It is ten years since Sankt Jörgen Park first opened its doors and, in its jubilee year, the team which gave the world the spa ritual concept is not resting on its laurels. This year’s innovation was the opening of a stunning poolside beach lounge. By Liz Longden | Photos: Bert Leandersson

Sweden may have sizzled in temperatures of over 30 degrees Celsius this summer, but in Sankt Jörgen Park at least, life has been cool. Although the award-winning hotel, spa and conference centre is just ten minutes from the centre of Gothenburg, guests have been treated to an altogether more tropical vibe, as they relax by the poolside, surrounded by palms and chilled drinks. The poolside lounge, which opened in May, is the latest addition to Sankt Jörgen Park’s impressive facilities and 32 | Issue 116 | September 2018

comprises a large, L-shaped pool, surrounded by cabanas and an open-air bar. Shaded seating areas, a warm spring and a 15-square-metre TV screen, displaying rolling images of Caribbean idylls, complete the set-up. And when the sun finally goes down, beats from the DJ booth warm the cooling air of the long summer evenings. “We wanted to create the same feeling of when you go abroad and head out to a pool bar for the day – somewhere where you can just relax by the water, take it

easy, eat lunch and stay all day – while also maintaining the same feeling of luxury that fits in with our concept. And it’s been fantastic,” says resort manager Kia Andersson. “During the World Cup, we had the games on the big screen and people were sitting by the pool and in the pool, just hanging out together and enjoying themselves. The atmosphere was incredible.” As well as for conference and hotel guests, the poolside lounge is open to anyone who wants to come and laze in luxury just for the day. However, for those wanting to make a short break of the experience, there is the option of a ‘Pool Lounge Overnight’ package, which includes a night’s stay in a double room, three exquisite meals, and full use of

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

the poolside lounge, gym and sports facilities and spa.

Something for everyone The poolside lounge is a completely new concept for Sankt Jörgen Park, and adds another impressive string to its bow, in addition to its award-winning spa, 18hole golf course, gym, conference facilities and hotel, which was last year crowned Sweden’s Most Stylish Design Hotel by the World Luxury Hotels Awards. “We do offer a very wide range of experiences and activities, and that’s important for both our hotel and conference guests,” Andersson says. “We feel that one of the main reasons a lot of our conference guests choose Sankt Jörgen Park is because of what we can offer in the evening, when work is over. There’s the gym, there’s the spa, there is scope for group activities. We have a boules court, for example, because not every-

one wants to wind down with a spa or high intensity exercise. So there’s something for everyone.” The same philosophy applies to the food on offer, with guests able to choose between classic cuisine in the hotel’s Inez & Ernst restaurant, traditional Swedish cooking in the golf club’s Greenhouse Café, or nutritious raw food selection in the spa’s bistro. “Our raw food restaurant has been open for five years now, and we are developing it constantly,” Andersson explains. “We have a lot of people who come in from outside just to eat there, and often, if a company is staying with us for a few days, they’ll choose to eat there. It’s something that guests really appreciate.” And when it comes to experiences at Sankt Jörgen Park, it would be amiss not to mention the spa ritual. Now a staple at spas across Sweden, the experience, which entails hot and cold springs, sau-

nas, showers and baths, with a selection of carefully chosen products, began here. Andersson and her team have continued to develop the concept, introducing a one-year-only limited edition ritual every year. Past themes have been inspired by destinations – often coupled with charity initiatives, such as the ‘Ghana’ and ‘Rio’ rituals, which saw money donated to a Ghanaian school and a sheltered home for mothers respectively – or concepts such as the ‘Sparkling’ theme of 2013. In Sankt Jörgen Park’s tenth anniversary year, the spa offers a ritual with the theme of ‘Jubileum’, where guests can indulge with the spa’s signature series of luxury products, beautifully presented in a stylish bag. “We’ve added a touch of elegance in our jubilee year and we look forward to celebrating with our guests,” says Andersson. Web: www.sanktjorgenpark.se

Photo: Sankt Jörgen Park

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 33

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Pampered at Sweden’s glass art hotel Kosta Boda Art Hotel is not only an excellent hotel and award-winning spa, it also serves as a showroom for fantastic art by the designers at Kosta Boda glassworks. An explosion of colour and form awaits the guests, to stimulate both the mind and the body. By Malin Norman | Photos: Kosta Boda Art Hotel

Located in Kosta Boda with its almost 300-year-old history of glass blowing, it comes as no surprise that the town’s hotel also has something to do with glass. The glassworks was founded back in 1742 by Anders Koskull and Georg Bogislaus Staël von Holstein, two officers in Karl XII’s army. Today, Orrefors-Kosta Boda glassworks is one of Sweden’s most internationally known brands and the area is often referred to as the Kingdom of Crystal. Kosta Boda Art Hotel opened in 2009 and is now an acclaimed showroom for glass, 34 | Issue 116 | September 2018

a successful and highly praised concept. “Glass is the common theme at the hotel, with rooms individually decorated with glass art from our fantastic designers at Kosta Boda,” explains hotel manager Ulrica Olsson. “This is an exceptional environment and we are incredibly proud to carry on the tradition of the glassworks.”

Unique glass art Seven of Sweden’s most famous designers from Kosta Boda glassworks, which is located just across the street, have contributed with glass art and textiles for the hotel’s 102 guest rooms,

corridors and meeting facilities. They can also be found throughout the hotel, including in the Glass Bar and the Art Lobby Bar, in the Linnéa Art Restaurant, and even displayed at the bottom of the swimming pool. Clearly, the hotel is very proud of its collaboration with the artists, who have all added their own characteristic expression and created a unique environment for the guests. The list of prominent designers includes Anna Ehrner, Göran Wärff, Ulrica Hydman-Vallien, Bertil Vallien, Kjell Engman, Åsa Jungnelius, and Ludvig Löfgren. All in all, the hotel showcases art for around 50 million SEK (around 4.2 million GBP) and everything is for sale, including artwork and furniture, and even small details such as glass tumblers. “It’s easy

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

for our guests to see how the glass and artwork can fit into their homes. And as they buy pieces, or perhaps because the designers want to include their artwork in exhibitions elsewhere, we replace them with new ones. This is a living showroom, constantly changing.”

Five-star spa A must-do at Kosta Boda Art Hotel is a visit to the five-star spa, which also showcases the fantastic glass art in its pools and facilities. Guests can get pampered from head to toe with a range of popular treatments, such as Art Glass Feeling and Art Glass Escape, with warm glass used. Both treatments have been named Best Spa Treatment at the Spa Awards. “Our signature treatments with warm glass are incredibly popular,” admits Olsson. “And at the end of the treatment, you get an exclusive glass gift to take home as a memory.” New this year is Hot Glass Massage, another unforgettable experience. Kosta Boda Art Hotel has received numerous awards for its design and service,

for example TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence in 2016, 2017 and 2018, and thereby qualified for TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame. Amongst other prominent honours are Sweden’s Best Design Hotel by Hotel Specials and the Big Tourism Prize, which is awarded in particular for innovation, internationalisation, quality and sustainability in Swedish tourism. “We have had a fantastic journey so far,” says Olsson. “Our guests appreciate the individuality of the hotel and how we present the art. We have managed to put together a great mix of spa treatments, art and history from the area, in addition to excellent cuisine.”

New brasserie The hotel offers three different dining options for its guests: bistro, à la carte and fine dining. Last year, Kosta Boda Art Hotel introduced a modern brasserie with room for around 30 guests, who are welcomed to the rustic and intimate space by the crackling sound and warmth of an open fire. The brasserie also has an excellent wine cellar and an open-plan kitchen, where guests can watch the chefs at work.

Recently, Karim Khouani has been announced as head chef at Brasserie 1742. “It’s exciting for us to have Karim on board,” says Olsson. “He has international experience and his two most recent restaurants have achieved one star in the Michelin Guide. Karim will continue our focus on putting Kosta on the map as a destination for good food experiences.” The entrepreneurial spirit of Kosta Boda is evident in the hotel’s design, spa and innovative cuisine, but also in how the town has established itself as a destination. In addition to the famous glassworks, visitors can also explore nearby Kosta Outlet with 20,000 square metres of fantastic shopping opportunities. Kosta is a true hub for stylish glass and design, with plenty of opportunities to get pampered from head to toe.

Web: www.kostabodaarthotel.se Facebook: KostaBodaArtHotel Instagram: @kostaboda_arthotel

Photo: Joachim Grusell

Karim Khouani, head chef at Brasserie 1742

Photo: Joachim Grusell

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 35

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Check in, breathe out Bliss for the soul. This is how a stay at Vann Spa Hotel Conference is best described. The hotel, designed by famous architect Gert Wingårdh, offers well-deserved peace and quiet as well as some amazing views of Gullmarsfjorden. By Malin Norman | Photos: Vann Spa Hotel Conference

Vann Spa Hotel Conference is located 23 kilometres north east of Lysekil, in a beautiful nature reserve next to Gullmarsfjorden. “The setting is absolutely fantastic,” says CEO Susanne Åhlund. “We’re in the middle of the forest, yet right by the beach, and with spectacular panoramic views. This gives such a sense of peace and quiet, it’s pure bliss!” Opened in 2009, the hotel was designed by prominent Swedish architect Gert Wingårdh, who has successfully managed to reflect elements of nature and its colours throughout the building, for instance with the clever use of colours such as vibrant orange representing sea buckthorn, grey for the granite landscape and lush dark green for the nearby forest.

For an active life The hotel has 151 comfortable rooms and five suites, a conference facility for up to 300 people and a relaxing spa of 36 | Issue 116 | September 2018

1,000 square metres, with treatments and saunas. Indoors, guests can enjoy the large pool, which is divided into big and small tarns, separated by a fireplace, and five smaller pools with different themes, sounds and aromas – for instance, Forest Pool, Ice Pool and Devil’s Pot. Outdoors, a large swimming pool, open in spring and summer, plus two heated tubs, await guests. In addition to its many spa treatments, Vann Spa Hotel Conference organises plenty of activities on land and on water for body and mind. “We want to inspire movement, health and harmony,” says Åhlund. She recommends in particular the outdoor gym and mindfulness trail, and why not try forest floating with hammocks displayed amongst the trees? Also, this autumn offers various theme weekends including the opportunity to train with fitness coach Lovisa ‘Lofsan’ Sandström.

Following all the exciting activities, the restaurant offers a popular menu with freshly caught fish and shellfish, as well as high-quality meat and vegetables from the area. It is KRAV labelled and certified by Smaka på Västsverige (A Taste of West Sweden), and Vann Spa Hotel Conference also has its very own bakery, producing delicious bread and pastry – for yet another well-deserved treat. Next year, Vann Spa Hotel Conference celebrates its tenth anniversary, with updates to the spa, as well as a number of activities planned, throughout the year.

Web: vann.se Facebook: vannspahotellochkonferens Instagram: @vannspa

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Smögen: then and now Hotel Smögens Hafvsbad has a long history as a meeting place and health resort by the sea. For more than 100 years, guests have come to Smögen for relaxation and, just like in the former days, they can still enjoy that seaside atmosphere. By Malin Norman | Photos: Smögens Hafvsbad

The old fishing village of Smögen is one of the most famous spots in Bohuslän, attracting around one million visitors during the summer months. In the early 1900s, city dwellers travelled here for recreation by the sea after facing what was considered the intellectual challenges of winter. This is also the spot where famous poet and singer Evert Taube made his first official performance in 1918.

Folkesson, who also explains that some of the rooms tell the story of former guests who had a great impact on Smögen – famous people such as film director Torsten Winge, teacher Mamsell Helena Kullgren and Count Blankenhjälm, now certified as the hotel’s very own ghost.

Back in those days, Hotel Smögens Hafvsbad only had eight guest rooms and a beautiful dining hall. Today, it has 76 rooms, a fabulous seafood-themed restaurant, a relaxing spa with massages and other treatments, and conference facilities for up to 220 people – but with the same wonderful atmosphere and sea view.

A stay at Smögens Hafvsbad will naturally be focused around the sea and people’s relationship to water, then and now. For instance, guests can enjoy the traditional bathing ritual, but with modern-day products. The spa also features a range of treatments, a pool and Jacuzzi, and, of course, the opportunity to swim in the sea. After some well-deserved relaxation, guests can enjoy a lovely meal of freshly caught fish and seafood in the restaurant, with a view of the sea over dinner.

“We have kept the heritage and charm of the old days and mixed it with modern comforts,” says hotel manager Nils

Hotel Smögens Hafvsbad is open all year round, and Folkesson recommends a visit during the off-peak season. “The

winter months are incredible here, with a completely different atmosphere to the busy summer months. Smögen is ideal for hiking, with a number of different routes, and we have plenty of other activities and a variety of fantastic restaurants in the area.” One of the many autumn highlights is the lobster tours, starting in October, and the crayfish tours that run all year are also very popular. Later this autumn, the hotel will open its very own cooking studio to offer cooking activities for conference guests.

Web: www.smogenshafvsbad.se Facebook: smogenshafvsbad Instagram: @smogenshafvsbad

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 37

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Welcome to Sweden’s first spa Selma Spa in Sunne, Sweden, opened in 1991. The fitness trend was on the rise and they decided to combine this with the old European spa tradition. Today, the spa is still a great place for exercise, mindfulness and culinary experiences. By Malin Norman | Photos: Selma Spa

Selma Spa is a place where relaxation and refuelling go hand in hand. It offers plenty of exercise options in both the gym and the beautiful surroundings, treatments and relaxation in the spa and delicious food and wine in the restaurant – all with the base values centred around care and responsibility for our planet. The spa concept was created with a holistic view of the whole human in mind – good food and movement in combination. “What we did back then is part of our DNA today. We offered several classes 38 | Issue 116 | September 2018

per day, both mindful and cardio, as we wanted to leave room to recharge too. The difference now is that we focus even more on activities and the possibility to have an active spa experience in a modern and conscious way,” says Anders Pertun, CEO at Selma Spa.

Workouts and mindfulness When it opened, Selma Spa was the first spa in Scandinavia, and it is still one of the biggest in Sweden. The hotel has 184 rooms and a capacity for 400 beds, and the spa has nearly 40 different treat-

ments. Every day, there are up to ten exercise classes ranging from yoga to spinning and choreography, plus theme weekends with, for instance, training for the skiing or cycling season. New this year, is a bigger gym and a new spinning room with up to 26 bikes, plus a refurbished treatment area. “Both business and private guests like the opportunity for an active stay. They want to continue

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

with their exercise routines whilst travelling, and our combination of activities and recovery has been successful.” The spa’s old payoff, ‘Mjölksyra och Champagne’ (which translates as ‘lactic acid and Champagne’), is a tongue-incheek nod to the fact that you find all aspects of wellbeing here. “We are in many respects an active spa. But that does not mean that we want people to get lactic acid or indeed that everyone must drink Champagne either – but it is about workouts and rewards,” Pertun says, and adds: “We don’t want to work out now to get rewarded at Christmas. We can take a hard cardio class but want to get some form of reward pretty quickly. We give the opportunity to work out, go for a calm walk in the forest, enjoy a glass of Cham-

pagne or something completely different, like dinner or a good smoothie. So now we say: Selma Spa is a place where exercise and recovery go hand in hand.”

Sustainability and a rooftop terrace Guests at the spa should be able to enjoy their stay with a good conscience. The restaurant focuses on organic and local produce according to what is in season. In fact, Selma Spa has been named Sustainability Hotel of The Year at the annual Nordic Hotels & Resorts Awards. “We are working continuously to use local produce, to reduce our environmental impact, and to take responsibility for our local community,” says Pertun. When he started as CEO at Selma Spa in 2009, he spotted great potential in the roof

above the spa. His vision became a reality and the 546-square-metre-large Selma Spa rooftop terrace opened two years ago. It includes an outdoor kitchen, a bar and a green house, and has been very well received by visitors and locals alike. The idea is to make use of it all through the seasons. “I see myself standing up there giving the New Year’s speech or that we go outside to enjoy some mulled wine now and then in winter. Perhaps we’ll make holiday season door wreaths in the green house? It should very much be a venue all year round.” Web: www.selmaspa.se Facebook: selmaspa Twitter: @selmaspa Instagram: @selmaspa.se

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 39

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

A journey for the senses Luxury hotel Upper House offers up a superb mix of the highest quality tranquil space plus peace of mind. In addition to its fantastic views of Gothenburg from up high, this is a real hotspot for yoga enthusiasts and Michelin-star dining. By Malin Norman | Photos: Upper House

Upper House is conveniently located in the centre of Gothenburg and close to the huge indoor arena Scandinavium, as well as Liseberg, one of Scandinavia’s most frequented amusement parks. Many guests come to stay while visiting international exhibitions and events, or when having fun at the fair. Part of the tall building complex Gothia Towers, Upper House is an oasis sitting in the middle of the three towers, with its 53 stylish rooms spread across levels 21 to 40 | Issue 116 | September 2018

24. The floor-to-ceiling windows ensure plenty of light throughout and, of course, fabulous views. Opened in 2013, the small yet modern hotel Upper House has already won several awards for its excellence. For instance, it has been named Best Hotel in Sweden at the Trivago Awards 2017, and won in the categories Best Service Hotel, Best Romantic Hotel and Best Luxury Hotel at the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice

Awards. Most recently, it was named Best Guest Experience 2018 by Svenska Spahotell (Swedish Spa Hotels). “This is fantastic, as the award is based on guest recommendations,” says the hotel’s spa manager Jenny Hayward. “Our guests appreciate the exceptional service and feel well taken care of by our staff.”

Spa and yoga luxury up high In addition to the stunning vistas of Gothenburg, Upper House also features a fantastic spa. With oriental influences and inspiration from the west coast of Sweden, the tranquil interior is a mix of marble details and light wood. “We have developed the holistic concept further, including yoga classes and meditation,”

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

says Hayward, and continues: “Our spa is a place to get away from the hustle and bustle, somewhere to find peace and breathe for a while.” Guests can also try the hamam, a Turkish sauna with a traditional bathing routine, or they can book a massage and other treatments and go for a relaxing swim in one of the pools. During weekends, the spa offers a sauna experience consisting of a seven to ten minute ritual hosted by a sauna master. Hayward confirms: “This is a fantastic experience. The ritual is incredibly relaxing with the use of aromas and music. A moment to close your eyes and let your thoughts wander.” As Upper House Spa is attractive also to those who are not staying at the hotel, with a membership service, members gain access to the spa, gym and classes. All guests will get a guided tour of

the spa and they have the opportunity to buy exclusive spa products under the hotels’ own brand, UH by Upper House. This brand supports local production in Gothenburg and is based on Nordic ingredients − for instance, the lush shampoo, conditioner and shower cream with honey and sea-weed, and the luxurious body oil with sunflower oil and blackcurrant.

Michelin-star dining On the 25th floor is the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, Upper House Dining, with a fantastic terrace and the same light and airy atmosphere as the rooms and spa. Hidden away on the building’s roof, are two beehives – Sweden’s highest located – and a space to grow vegetables and herbs for the kitchen. Upper House Dining has received several prominent awards since opening and, in 2016, its very first Michelin star. The

talented culinary team is continuously elevating the creative work further with high-quality produce from carefully selected suppliers and by using its own honey and harvests from the roof garden. The gastronomic experience is based on local produce according to what is in season, combining unique flavours, playful presentation and heaps of passion, in addition to delicious wines picked by the trained sommeliers. Guests also praise the splendid hotel breakfast, which consists of homemade muesli, organic yoghurt, sliced fruit and freshly baked bread, and warm dishes can be specially ordered at the table and freshly prepared – for a great start to the day.

Web: www.upperhouse.se

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 41

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Mösseberg health resort offers guests contemporary luxury in a historical setting.

Timeless elegance and contemporary luxury Visitors have been coming to Mösseberg to relax and re-energise since 1867. While much has changed in the world in 151 years, the health resort originally described as Sweden’s most beautiful still dazzles its guests with an intoxicating combination of old-school elegance and the highest modern standards. By Liz Longden | Photos: Sebastian Streith

To stay at the Mösseberg health resort is to follow in the footsteps of generations of celebrities and members of high society. Royalty, diplomats, artists and entertainers are among those who have flocked to the natural waters of St. Erik’s spring to mingle, relax, see and be seen. And today, Mösseberg continues to attract high numbers of guests throughout the year, seeking to recharge their batteries in a unique setting. The hotel’s historic elegance is undoubtedly one reason for Mösseberg health 42 | Issue 116 | September 2018

resort’s enduring popularity, shining through in its striking period architecture and its magnificent ‘Jugund lounges’, which date from the early 20th century and boast Northern Europe’s largest collection of Art Nouveau furniture. There can be few health resorts where a sense of history can be felt so keenly. Yet the resort is far from a museum, and also offers attractive modern convenience. As hotel manager Ursula Frölin explains, the fact that everything is under one roof, and that the hotel is large

enough for guests not to feel cramped in, is one reason for its popularity. Another is its location, which offers a perfect balance between convenience and tranquillity. “We’re very close to Falköping railway station, so we’re very easy to get to and located very centrally. At the same time, you don’t get the feeling of being in a town centre – even if it does, in fact, only take a few minutes to get into town.”

Surrounded by nature The sense of being out in nature comes from the resort’s idyllic setting, which overlooks Mösseberg park, an area renowned locally for its natural beauty. In 1746, the botanist and ‘father of modern taxonomy’ Carl Linnaeus marvelled at the richness of Mösseberg’s flora, and visitors today will be similarly enchanted by the surroundings. Whether it be picking

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

a handful of wild cloudberries, enjoying a stroll or run through the park’s many footpaths, or climbing to the top of the viewing tower, which was built in 1902 and offers a breath-taking view of the local area, the park is perfect for those who enjoy winding down outdoors. Of course, the heart and foundation of the Mösseberg health resort is its natural spring water and hugely popular spa, and this is currently being developed and expanded. The renovation will broaden the range of facilities on offer and enable the spa to accommodate more guests – something made necessary by the health resort’s ever increasing popularity. “We have been very busy for the past few years and it doesn’t show any sign of slowing down,” Frölin explains. “By extending and enhancing our spa, we hope to be able to offer an even better experience and to even more guests.”

The new spa will open in November and, in addition to the two existing outdoor warm water pools, sauna, steam bath, foot bath and relaxation area, will also offer a heated indoor pool and shallow relaxing pool, where guests can sit and recline, immersed in the water. And, as always, the spa will continue to offer a broad range of luxurious spa treatments.

Authentic cuisine If a few hours in the spa or in the hotel gym leave you with a hearty appetite, the hotel restaurant offers a culinary experience that is unlikely to disappoint. As well as being one of the first businesses in Sweden to achieve the ‘Cittaslow’ certification as a champion of the ‘slow food’ movement, the hotel is a member of ‘Smaka på Västsverige’ (‘A taste of West Sweden’) – an accreditation scheme that recognises restaurants offering authentic, high-quality cuisine, using the finest

ingredients from local and small-scale producers. “We find that, more and more, guests would like ingredients to come from Sweden. But we try to go a bit further than that and, as far as possible, buy our produce from local farmers and producers, even down to the beer that we offer,” says Frölin. “From our perspective, it feels like the natural and obvious thing to do.” Something else that Frölin feels is natural and obvious is the investment that Mösseberg makes in its staff. “Our staff are extremely good and we take great pride in them. We know that if our staff are happy and enjoy working here, that will also be reflected in the experience that our guests have with us. And that, ultimately, is what we’re all about.” Web: www.kurortenmosseberg.se

Mösseberg health resort prides itself on using high-quality local produce wherever possible.

Those who enjoy exercising in beautiful natural surroundings will be in their element in Mösseberg park.

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 43

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Relax, recharge, reconnect Just a stone’s throw away from one of southern Skåne’s most beautiful beaches, you will find Hotell Mossbylund. This small spa hotel focuses on the local, genuine and familiar. Guests can relax in the new spa, recharge with some exercise, or get reconnected in the modern conference facilities.

mentally certified with Svanen,” explains Ingrid. “It’s our goal to care for our surroundings and we put a lot of love and effort into what we serve.”

By Malin Norman | Photos: Hotell Mossbylund

Located just 50 minutes from Copenhagen airport, 40 minutes from Malmö and Lund, and merely 15 minutes from Ystad, Hotell Mossbylund is near yet far from the routines of daily life.

The hotel’s owner and CEO since 2002, Ingrid Svensson, explains that despite its steady growth over the years, Mossbylund is still very much a welcoming and intimate place for its guests. “We listen to what our guests want and maintain our commitment to providing a homely and personal approach thanks to our fantastic staff. Whilst continuing to improve and providing a high level of professional service, we also embrace the homelike, informal and cosy atmosphere that our guests love.” In 2013, the hotel went through an expansion with additional rooms and a completely new spa. Since then, the restaurant and kitchen have also been refurbished 44 | Issue 116 | September 2018

and the spa has expanded further. The spa is purely intended for relaxation and there are no strict spa rituals to follow, but, of course, there are plenty of treatments to try. Ingrid admits that inspiration for the spa came during a trip to Iceland when she visited a countryside spa. “It’s important that a spa feels close to nature and has a beautiful view. Our surroundings are such a great source of energy, and we want to utilise this in our spa.” In the restaurant, talented head chef Christoffer Herbst and his team works with local produce from the many surrounding farms. “Our nature and environment is important for us and both our hotel and restaurant have been environ-

Web: www.mossbylund.se Facebook: Mossbylund Instagram: @hotellmossbylund

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Spa Sensations of Jämtland On the island of Frösön in Swedish Jämtland, Frösö Park Spa welcomes visitors to its 100 per cent ecological spa, devoted to sensations you only encounter in Jämtland. With stunning views over the mountain range and Lake Storsjön, it makes the perfect destination for nature lovers looking for spa experiences out of the ordinary. By Kristine Olofsson | Photos: Frösö Park Hotel AB

Frösö Park Spa forms part of Quality Hotel Frösö Park, a large hotel facility with conference, sport experiences and wellness at heart. Located in what used to be an area for military service, the facility is part of a converted regiment. Due to this, guests can nowadays enjoy spa treatments in a one-of-a-kind environment. “Frösö Park Spa is found in what used to be the canteen, and you can still feel the history in the walls,” says Jeannette Jansson, spa manager. “At Frösö Park Spa, you can sense the soul of Jämtland. Our identity is grounded in nature and all products used in the spa are ecological,” Jansson continues. “This is important for us and we are proud that we have whole-heartedly em-

barked on this ecological journey. Our skilled spa therapists and these great products allow guests to see great results, inside and out.”

A spa journey for body and mind The theme of Jämtland runs through everything in the spa, from the organic smoothie menu with names pronounced in Jamtlandic − the local dialect, to the thought behind the spa rituals. On the treatment menu, one will find products based on blueberries, cloudberries and lingonberries, the three signature berries from Jämtland, and to find a whole berry in a body scrub is not unusual. “Everything we do is connected to the surrounding nature, and we are extra

proud of our new spa ritual,” Jansson says excitedly. Before the ritual, participants receive products and instructions written on a wooden board. Rather than focusing on the outside, the instructions take you on a journey for both body and mind, through the forests of Jämtland with purling springs and dense fog. Locally produced music is present in the spa, with elements from the area such as birds, yoiking and sounds of nature. Guests may also discover different types of saunas, hot and cold springs and other natural treatments. “We can see a huge potential for Frösö Park Spa in the future,” Jansson tells us. ”The dream is to share this spa experience of Jämtland with visitors from all over the world!” Getting there: Three minutes from Åre Östersund Airport Web: www.frosoparkhotel.se Facebook: frosoparkhotel Instagram: @frosoparkhotel

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 45

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

In the heart of Hälsingland Orbaden is one of the most beautiful lakeside resorts in Sweden, located by the Ljusnan river and in the heart of Hälsingland. It is also home to Orbaden Spa & Resort, a tranquil spot to rest and recover with nature just around the corner. By Malin Norman | Photos: Orbaden Spa & Resort

Orbaden is often called the Riviera of Hälsingland and has long been popular for its fresh air and clear water. Back in the 1920s, the land hosted a restaurant, a campsite and a dance pavilion. Over the years, it has changed owners and the bed & breakfast later became a hotel. The spa opened in 2007 and its facilities have been continuously updated. It offers treatments with products from Kerstin Florian and packages such as yoga weekends. Both the sauna and the outdoor pool boast spectacular views of the Ljusnan river and the valley all the way up to Järvsö. In the restaurant, guests can enjoy healthy international cuisine with a local twist, and a tasty vegetarian menu. This year, Orbaden Spa & Resort won bronze in Best Guest Experience as awarded by Svenska Spahotell. It was 46 | Issue 116 | September 2018

also nominated in the category Best Independent Hotel at the Grand Travel Award. “Orbaden is a very special place,” admits general manager Helene Åkerström Hartman. “This is a creative spot with plenty of cultural heritage and activities, but it also breathes tranquillity. Hälsingland is not far from Arlanda Airport, yet very close to nature. This is a fantastic place to relax, it doesn’t take long to unwind.” Staying at Orbaden is a genuine Hälsingland experience, with local artist Mårten Andersson’s art on display throughout the resort and a number of celebrities having decorated the rooms. For instance, famous actor Peter Stormare is from the area and often returns home. He has designed a suite with Japan, LA and Hälsingland as inspiration. Other celebrities who have designed rooms for Orbaden are model and TV

host Victoria Silvstedt, athlete Carolina Klüft, and former model Carita Järvinen. Åkerström Hartman recommends that visitors explore the beautiful surroundings and attractions such as Hälsingegårdarna, the typical old farmhouses now protected by UNESCO. Other activities include cross-country skiing and ice-skating in winter, and hiking, cycling and canoeing in summer. For the brave, Sweden’s fastest zip line is close by, and beer lovers can check out local microbrewery Organic Smash. Actor Peter Stormare and his family at Orbaden.

Web: www.orbaden.se Facebook: orbaden Instagram: @orbaden

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: The Best Spas in Sweden

Photo: Strömstad Spa & Resort.

A luxurious stay on the ‘Swedish Riviera’ At Strömstad Spa & Resort, there is no need to choose between luxury comforts and the peace and beauty of nature. With its idyllic setting on Sweden’s west coast, topclass facilities and eye-catching design, the spa resort is the perfect destination for those who want it all.

a lot of guests comment on how international it feels,” she says. “The whole feeling is very cool, very relaxed. It feels much more like the French Riviera than a typical Swedish seaside town.”

By Liz Longden | Photos: Petra Björstad

“It tends to get overlooked. Even within Sweden, people often don’t realise what a fantastic destination Strömstad is.” So says Annika Fritzén, Strömstad Spa & Resort’s marketing and sales director.

enjoy everything the archipelago has to offer. Yet its first class facilities ensure that those who enjoy luxury will not be disappointed.

Situated on the Bohuslän coast, about 30 kilometres south of the Norwegian border, Strömstad is one of Sweden’s bestkept secrets. A vibrant town, open all year round, its seaside location offers not only natural beauty in abundance, but activities ranging from lobster safaris to exhilarating excursions on a RIB boat. The Koster Islands, an idyll renowned as one of Sweden’s sunniest spots, are also within easy reach of the town.

In addition to one of Bohuslän’s finest golf courses just 50 metres from the hotel, and a selection of restaurants offering fine dining and sea views, the resort has an extensive spa, spread over two floors. Here, guests can enjoy no less than seven different pools – including a saltwater pool and a circulation-boosting ‘kneippbad’ – an outdoor Jacuzzi with sea view, and four different saunas. As a Decléor flagship spa, it also offers an extensive range of luxury treatments.

Strömstad Spa & Resort’s prime location on the seafront, looking directly out on to the island nature reserve of Nötholmen, means that its guests can

It all adds up to an experience which Fritzén believes is close to unique in Sweden. “The hotel is fairly recently built, so it has a very modern, bold design and

Strömstad Spa & Resort’s location midway between Oslo and Gothenburg also makes it a perfect location for conferences and Fritzén explains that the resort prides itself on offering a service which goes beyond the typical. “It’s not just about providing a nice setting, but about working with our clients and putting everything in place to ensure they have the absolute best meeting possible.”

Web: www.stromstadspa.se

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 47

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: Our Favourite Swedish Wellness Brands

The secret to healthy skin, from the forest When the autumn and winter months are approaching, give your skin some love with organic skincare brand BARR. Its award-winning products are made from natural ingredients, for healthy and beautiful skin. By Malin Norman | Photos: BARR

Based in Strömsund in the region of Jämtland, upcoming Swedish beauty brand BARR makes exclusive organic skincare products from natural ingredients. Inspired by nature and developed to carefully help improve skin health, the products are made by the brand’s own recipes and only high-quality organic ingredients are used. “Here in Strömsund, we live in the middle of the countryside,” says co-founder 48 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Rikard Andersson. With coniferous forest just around the corner, Andersson and his wife started their own organic beauty brand in 2015 and decided to name it BARR, which is Swedish and means coniferous.

the best for our baby. A lot of products have strange ingredients, some of them are even harmful, and we wanted to find an alternative. We decided to try and make toxin-free products ourselves.”

Soul of Scandinavia

All BARR’s products are 100 per cent natural and include a high degree of organic ingredients. “We want to provide products that everyone feels are safe to use and can trust quality-wise. And we want to give a sense of Sweden and Scandinavia, through our design and our products.”

“It all started with love and focus when we had our son,” continues Andersson. “As parents, we became more aware of the products we used and only wanted

In less than three years, BARR has won several prominent awards that show the brand’s high quality and excellent prod-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: Our Favourite Swedish Wellness Brands

ucts. BARR’s very first product was baby oil, launched less than three years ago. As proof of its success, the baby oil was recently awarded bronze in the category Baby & Child at the Green Parents Natural Beauty Awards 2018 in the UK.

Award-winning snow oil The brand’s bestseller so far is Snow Oil, a body oil made especially for skin that needs extra nutrition and moisture. It also has a softening and calming effect, and is claimed to improve texture and tone. Andersson confirms, “the oil is rich and works really well on dry skin, without being sticky.” In only a couple of years, Snow Oil has won a number of prominent awards. For instance, it was named Best New Natural Product in the Pure Beauty Awards 2017 in the UK. “This was almost a bit unreal,” admits Andersson. “We were really sur-

prised to win this award as an upcoming brand, and of course we are incredibly proud of the achievement.” Snow Oil also won in the category Best Body Oil in the Swedish Organic Beauty Awards 2017, and was named Best Body Oil at Beauty Shortlist Mama&Baby 2018 in the UK. The praise also carries through to magazines, where Snow Oil was named Best Swedish Skincare Product 2017 by Aftonbladet’s beauty editors with the motivation, “Swedish organic skincare at its best. Clean, fragrant and moisturising.”

Scents from the forest Also popular is the Secret Forest Face Oil, a luxurious oil with a high level of vitamins and anti-oxidants claimed to prevent wrinkles and free radicals, and with a fragrance from the depths of the forest. This oil is ideal for all ages, for dry skin, and for unbalanced and stressed skin.

Andersson confirms that BARR is broadening its range at a steady pace, most recently with multivitamin facial cream, which is already a favourite for many customers. This cream is a combined day and night cream, which improves elasticity for healthier skin. Another new product is the multivitamin face mask, a nourishing facial mask that is deep cleansing and smoothes and balances the skin. As expressed by one customer on Instagram, “It’s cleansing and refreshing with everything your skin needs.” BARR’s range of products is available at selected retailers, including Whole Foods Market UK, as well as in the web shop. Web: www.barrsweden.com Facebook: barrsweden Instagram: @barrsweden

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 49

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: Our Favourite Swedish Wellness Brands

Ethical yoga products Yoga has long taken the world by storm, and with it come changes in fashion. Scan Magazine had a chat with Katarina Andersson, founder of Yogia – a web shop in Sweden specialising in yoga clothes, mats, and accessories from small distributors whose products are hard to find on the high street.

which are used for meditation and anxiety relief. They also stock bolsters and cushions for YinYoga, which has recently become another popular tool for combating stress.

By Sofia Scratton | Photos: Yogia

Colourful, trendy, ethical, and organic is how founder Katarina describes Yogia. They have a large range of yoga clothes, mats, accessories, and jewellery. Katarina spends a lot of time researching the market and aims to stock products that are ethically produced with organic, often recycled materials. “Our customers are after something different and something that looks and feels a little bit special. Perhaps they are going to a yoga retreat and want a pair of trendy, yet practical yoga pants. Or a fun, colourful yoga mat that they know has been ethically produced. High-quality, fashionable, ethical products and good customer service are at the heart of our business. We make sure each customer is seen and heard. I spent 20 years running a jewellery business, which taught me the 50 | Issue 116 | September 2018

importance of personal and professional customer service.” Katarina turned to yoga during a particularly stressful period in her life. Owning a successful, award-winning jewellery business with 25 employees, her life seemed perfect from the outside, but one day she decided that yoga needed to be a bigger part of it. She sold her jewellery business and set off to find her next adventure. She first trained as a yoga teacher but realised it was not for her. She wanted to create something where she could use her love for yoga together with her retail business expertise, and that is how Yogia started. Yogia’s website is in Swedish but they deliver worldwide. New for this autumn are Mala necklaces in different colours,

Web: www.yogia.se Facebook: yogia.se Instagram: @yogia.se

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: Our Favourite Swedish Wellness Brands

Photo: Organic Beauty Awards

Argan all the way With a Finnish mother and a Moroccan father, the founder and CEO of Loelle, Dominique Samir Guellouchi, embarked on the mission to bring quality argan oil from Morocco to the Nordic market. Today, Loelle is a growing company with awardwinning, organic beauty products. By Kristine Olofsson | Photos: Loelle AB

“I named the company after my second daughter, Loelle, and for me, this symbolises everything we stand for: family, passion and a healthy lifestyle,” the father of four tells us. “Loelle reflects kindness for the environment and people. All our products are completely organic, cruelty free and vegan-certified. We also work closely with a fantastic women’s cooperative in Marocco,” Guellouchi continues. “I visit several times per year and it is great to see women from poor backgrounds getting the chance to work and provide for themselves under fair conditions, while their children get to go to school.”

The secret ingredient Argan oil has been used since ancient times and there are no doubts of the popularity of Loelle’s products. “I am extremely proud of our Luxury Series con-

sisting of three products: the 2017 Organic Beauty Award-winning face serum, a hair oil that was awarded best product and hairstyling product last year, and a protective face oil,” Guellouchi continues. “Unique for these products are that they contain barbary fig seed oil, an ingredient we were pioneers at using in Sweden.” For each litre of this precious oil, you need one tonne of the cactus figs, but the reward is great. “Just like a cactus in the desert, the serum holds water, preserves moisture and evens out fine lines in the skin. There are many products doing the same thing, but most of them are chemical. This is a completely organic alternative,” Guellouchi says. The Loelle argan oil is nourishing, anti-inflammatory and protective against free radicals. “It is a great all-round product, easily absorbed and perfect for your face, body and cuticles.

Once you’ve tried it, you can’t be without it,” Guellouchi promises with a smile. “It’s perfect to use after our rosewater, which won at the Organic Beauty Awards in 2018 for best face water.” Extracted from rose petals, the rosewater cleans, resets the PH-balance and has anti-aging qualities. In a world where consumers are becoming more aware, Loelle continues to set examples with these types of products. “We will always serve our consumers organic, effective and kind products,” Guellouchi summarises.

Web: www.loelle.se Facebook: Loelle.Stockholm Instagram: @loelleorganicbeauty Contact: info@loelle.se

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 51

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Spa and Wellness: Our Favourite Swedish Wellness Brands

Turkish Bath, Sturebadet City, Stockholm.

Hamam, Sturebadet Marina Tower, Stockholm.

Kerstin Florian. Photo: Kerstin Florian

An anniversary of outer beauty and inner health With a new and fresh view on wellness and health, Kerstin Florian broke new ground when, in 1978, she opened her first spa business in Laguna Beach, California with one vision: outer beauty, inner health. This year, the brand Kerstin Florian celebrates its 40th anniversary and the Swedish wellness business continues to revolutionise its industry. By Hanna Stjernström | Photos: Sturebadet

The year is 1978 and Kerstin Florian, a Swedish-born aesthetician and spa manager, opens her first spa in California. “Spa was so much more than what it was known as at that time – which was basically a bubbling hot tub,” Kerstin Florian recalls, and explains the cornerstones behind her philosophy: “To me, spa was a lifestyle based on wellness living that encompassed proper nutrition, regular exercise, peace of mind, and care of face and body with natural resources.” This holistic approach to wellness became a success, and the four pillars that guided Florian in her first business laid the foundations for its continuous growth during the next 40 years.

and body care as well as treatments that have their origin in nature’s most effective ingredients. “I create products with natural ingredients that the whole family can use – husband, child, mother, sister – to feel good and healthy and to care for their skin for a lifetime,” Florian explains.

Today, the luxurious brand is present in more than 30 countries and offers skin

The initiative for further knowledge and development has taken Kerstin Florian

52 | Issue 116 | September 2018

This year marks a significant milestone for the brand as it celebrates four decades in a competitive industry. “My brand came from my passion for wellness, authenticity, positivity and a desire to find and learn from what nature and spa living have to offer,” Florian says, when asked about what she thinks is the key behind their long-term success.

from a small spa in Laguna Beach to being a world-renowned luxurious wellness brand. With the merits in hand, there are endless opportunities and possibilities for the next 40 years. “I am always creating, finding new ingredients and ways to use products, therapies and techniques to make people feel good and balanced. It energises me and feeds the brand in order to keep it expanding and evolving”.

Photo: Kerstin Florian

Web: www.kerstinflorian.se Facebook: kerstinflorianhudvard Instagram: @kerstinflorianswe

Made in Roslagen SWEDEN

www.alukin.se

Alukinboats:

Marinteknik i Norrt채lje AB - Tel: +46 (0) 176 22 44 40 - G채ddv채gen 9-11 Norrt채lje

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Clothing for an active and urban lifestyle With classical incisions for lasting pleasure, and qualities that have a silky feeling while being sustainable and fair, the Norwegian lifestyle brand Bjørk Studio creates multifunctional clothing inspired by yoga and the simple, Scandinavian expression.

body cool down more quickly, resulting in the wearer feeling fresh. That is why our collection is a perfect fit for any outdoorsy person,” says Eikerol.

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Bjørk Studio

Easy-to-carry, layered garments, that switch between chic and comfortable, urban and active, is the very essence of Bjørk. “I want to make quality clothes with a classic cut that you will love. Our focus is the ‘slow fashion’ principle and creating timeless pieces,” says owner Nina Eikerol. She established Bjørk in 2015, after a long background as a designer at Ghost Design and the clothing brand Lilleba & Herremann. Focusing on comfortable and authentic garments for the active and urban person who values fair trade and sustainability, Eikerol combines timeless 54 | Issue 116 | September 2018

style and quality with environmentally friendly materials. “Our collection consists of soft and lightweight to-and-from garments. Layers of flexible clothes that can be used for exercise, hiking, meeting friends in town or a yoga session,” she explains. A part of the collection has a mix of Tencel lyocell and merino wool, a unique combination that regulates both heat and moisture, while giving you a sense of well-being. This means that the garments can be worn under your windproof and waterproof clothing or just as they are. “Layering these warm, thin garments makes the

With a vision to create garments that integrate humanity and sustainability, it is important for the Norwegian lifestyle brand to practise good, sustainable qualities and to ensure that workers have good working conditions. All products are also produced and sewn in Europe. “It’s all about lifestyle. Don’t buy so much, but focus on having multifunctional clothing in your wardrobe that can be used for several occasions. Our clothes are made in cooperation with and respect for our suppliers and partners,” Eikerol concludes. Web: www.bjorkstudio.no

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Best of Norway

A passion for healthy eyes As one of the Nordic region’s largest suppliers of sunglasses, Mokki Eyewear has always had an eye for quality. Owner Moshe Ohana has been observing the Scandinavian needs closely over the last 25 years and, thanks to this knowledge, his latest innovation has been nominated for an award at an international trade fair for premium baby and toddler products. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Mokki Eyewear

“My goal has always been to make high-quality eyewear for everyone,” Ohana states. The Oslo-based brand aims to provide great design at affordable prices, with a focus on making good eye health the number one priority. Today, Mokki has become one of the best-selling eyewear brands in Scandinavia, selling over 30,000 pairs of sunglasses per year and obtaining 70 per cent of the children’s sunglasses market in Norway. Although Ohana is neither an educated optician nor designer, he has acquired sufficient knowledge during his career in the spectacle field. “I have built an incredible network by working with some of the foremost suppliers, and gained broad knowledge of which material choices are best to use in our products,” he says. Supplying designer glasses inspired by Norwegian nature with the midnight sun,

hypnotising northern lights and snowy mountains, Mokki adopts international fashion trends while embracing the Scandinavian feel.

two pairs for customisation − one pair of Everyday Blue Block glasses for everyday use, and a pair of Active Polarized glasses to use in the mountains or at sea. An addition of accessories allows parents to easily assemble the spectacles to suit whatever the current needs are,” Ohana explains, while adding: “Adults spend a lot of money on their own protection, but there are rarely good-quality alternatives for children on the market. This is what we want to do something about!”

The world of kids care Ohana is excited to announce that their baby and children’s sunglasses collection Click & Change is nominated in the World of Kids Care category at the Kind + Jugend Innovation Award 2018. “Our aim is to make the world’s best sunglasses for youngsters, and for the last year, we have worked on a new patent for children aged 0-3 years and 3-5 years,” he says. These new Norwegian design spectacles take care of the eyes of young children and are developed with the best interests of the child in mind. “I am very passionate about kids’ eye health. Our sunglasses have high UV protection, and each box comes with

Web: www.mokki.no

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 55

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Best of Norway

Sustainable fashion to protect from the rough Nordic weather Since 2008, Norwegian brand Fleischer Couture has designed fashionable and functional clothes for women to feel comfortable, warm and dry in, in the unpredictable Nordic climate. By Åsa Hedvig Aaberge | Photos: Martin Rustad Johansen

“Fleischer Couture was established with an aim to inspire women to enjoy the surrounding nature actively, no matter the weather. We want to empower women to both look and feel good, while being protected against the Nordic weather,” says Thea Sundhell, who runs the brand together with friend and designer Maja Fleischer. Ten years on, Fleischer Couture has grown into a brand featuring more than just down coats, which was the brand’s first product and now their signature piece. Worn by the likes of Sex and the City actress Sarah Jessica Parker and the Queen of Norway, Fleischer Couture’s repertoire includes collections of clothing in functional and delicate fibres such as cashmere, merino, silk and organic cotton, suitable for every season. “Our clothes should always make women feel stylish in cold weather, rain and 56 | Issue 116 | September 2018

snow. Our customer is the urban woman who values good fashion, high quality and functionality,” says Sundhell. All collections include active and sporty ready-to-wear fashion with a timeless and classy design. The top priority for Fleischer Couture is to be cruelty-free and ethical both in design and production. The brand’s speciality is down jackets and coats made of water-resistant materials and high-quality, cruelty-free down. The soft fur used on the hoods of the coats originates from alpacas in the mountains of Peru, that have died of natural causes. “To maintain ethical sustainability in the production chain is challenging, but it is important for us to spend time on it. Sustainability is constantly at the top of the agenda,” says designer and founder Maja Fleischer. Fleischer Couture aims for its customers to continue to wear the clothes for years and years, through every season.

“We have a strong desire that our clothes go on to have a long life,” says Fleischer. Ten years after the first down coats were made, Fleischer Couture continue to grow. This season, the brand launches a kids collection to celebrate the special anniversary. Fleischer Couture is available online at their web shop, and at selected stores in Norway and Denmark.

Web: www.fleischercouture.no Instagram: @fleischercouture

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Best of Norway

Cultural heritage

By Marte Eide | Photos: Britt Bakken Keramikk

For years, Britt Bakken dreamed of making a living working with ceramics. Now, she participates in arts and crafts fairs across Norway under the trade name Britt Bakken Keramikk, and has been awarded prizes for her design, influenced by Valdres. Born and raised in Valdres, Bakken has a lifelong attachment to its culture and heritage. “It is important for me that these elements are reflected in my work,” she says. A popular symbol is the carved rose hex symbol in white, adorning red barns all across Valdres. “I also made clay impressions from my daughter’s bunad, which I had embroidered by hand myself. My grandmother had the same one and it makes me remember her and the tradition,” Bakken explains. Britt Bakken Keramikk’s most popular items are ceramics with the traditional waffle symbol, a cultural heritage which all of Norway is fond of. “My clay impressions are from a waffle iron where the hearts have different patterns, another influence from my grandmother,” says Bakken, who dreams of making a full-time living out of her business. “Now I am working on my ceramics 50 per

cent of the time, but my dream is to do it all the time,” she says. Two years ago, she sold the cattle at the family farm and has since adjusted to having more freedom. With a degree in product design and with ceramics as the major subject area, Bakken knew that being more creative was something she longed for. “Life takes time! Despite the challenges there is something in me that wants to keep going and try my best to succeed”.

Facebook: Britt-Bakkens-keramikk Instagram: @brittjbakken

Feet on the ground

By Lisa Maria Berg | Photos: Fredriksens Fabrikk

In a tiny factory in Nissedal (directly translated as meaning Santa Valley − yes, sometimes Norway is just like in the fairy tales) sit two men and a part-time receptionist, each making sheep wool into insoles. Averaging at about 70,000 pairs per year, they are keeping a lot of feet very happy. “Something happened during the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer in 1994. We went there with a car full of insoles, but within days, it was empty.” Øystein Fredriksen takes us back to the beginning of the ‘90s and the start of his (tiny, he stresses again) insole factory adventure. Back then, they sold leathers out of the back of a car. Now, they retail to stores all over Scandinavia. What is it about his woollen soles? Scandinavians like their wool, and not without reason. “The wool has some natural qualities which makes it unique. Because it absorbs moisture it keeps you warm even though you get wet,” Fredriksen explains. For thousands of years, it has kept winter somewhat at bay for the Scandinavians. You find the insole everywhere. Whether you are a runner, a trekker, want to protect

Britt Bakken. Photo: Tuva Reboli Bakken

your feet at work or just want your favourite shoes to feel even better − a little bit of insole can get you there. Shoes and insole productions have, for the most part, been outsourced to countries outside of Norway. Fredriksen has kept his wool, however, in Nissedalen.

“Retailers appreciate that there is a short link from us to the product. People know what they are getting. We make a purely organic insole. It works just as well on a winter trek as in a summer shoe, keeping your feet comfortable and dry.” Øystein Fredriksen is only halfway through the year − so 35,000 insoles still to go then!

Web: www.fredriksensfabrikk.no

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 57

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Best of Norway: Autumn and Winter Experiences

Your starting point for amazing adventures Visit the northernmost budget-friendly accommodation in Svalbard to experience lodging with character, casual atmosphere, history and soul. Considered a cultural heritage site, this home away from home hosts people from all over the world, and serves as the perfect start for your arctic adventures. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Marcela Cardenas

Located at the top of the Longyear Valley in Nybyen, two kilometres away from the city centre, Gjestehuset 102 is a great spot to relax in. “We offer lodging with character, history and soul. The standard here is simple but pleasant, and we pride ourselves on being the northernmost budget-friendly accommodation,” says booking manager Olena Hindseth. From 1946 until 2001, the guesthouse was the home of the local miners, but in 1999, it was bought up by Arne Kristoffersen and made into accommodation for tourists. With 61 beds spread over two floors, the charming and cosy guesthouse conveys an informal and friendly atmosphere. If you are lucky, you can see polar foxes and reindeer walking by your bedroom window, a truly special sight. 58 | Issue 116 | September 2018

The staff will gladly share their knowledge of Svalbard and its history, and the aim is to be your home away from home. Here, you will easily get to know other residents of different backgrounds and nationalities while exchanging experiences and tips. “We have a kitchen and social areas for our guests to use as they please, whether that is cooking a meal or chatting with each other over a coffee,” Hindseth explains. Gjestehuset 102 is a great start for your arctic adventures. In collaboration with Svalbard Wildlife Expeditions, the guesthouse has a new winter campaign this season, offering up a three-day trip. “We want to help our guests to get outdoors in the beautiful nature. Our philosophy is that people should use their body as a machine, and we place a high value on providing environmentally friendly activi-

ties such as snowshoeing, hiking and skiing in the winter,” says Hindseth. Since the guesthouse is surrounded by two glaciers, steep mountains, coal mines, fjords and magnificent wildlife, you can experience a bit of everything when you visit. “During the darker season, you will see the beautiful starry skies, the moonlight and the impressive pink light during the polar nights. Catch the northern lights dancing across the sky, a beautiful and unforgettable phenomenon visible both day and night here,” Hindseth concludes. Web: www.wildlife.no Svalbardpanorama: A hiking trip to Platåfjellet, with a great view of Longyearbyen. Frozen: Explore a frozen world in the ice cave. Dark Season Campaign available from 1 October, 2018. Web: www.gjestehuset102.no

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Best of Norway: Autumn and Winter Experiences

Light in the dark

By Lisa Maria Berg | Photos: Tromsø Friluftsenter

Summer has pretty much left Norway now. With September upon us, the temperature drops, the green fades and the midnight sun is nothing but a faint recollection. As autumn unfolds, the north of Norway prepares for something else altogether: the impending arrival of winter. But high above the changing landscape, a spectacle is about to unfold. The northern lights, the aurora − dancing across the pitch-black sky. For the small Risvik family on Kvaløya (meaning whale island, as whales may visit the surrounding fjords between October and January), the aurora has become much more than just something pretty to look at; it is now their way of life. Their unique approach to the aurora and the surrounding wildlife was captured in the 2018 documentary Jakten på Nordlyset (The Northern Lights Chase), broadcast on the Discovery owned Norwegian channel, TV Norge, this year. “We want to share the uniqueness of this place with others − let them have an experience they can not find anywhere else,” says manager Trine Risvik. She has run the business together with her family since 2004, making her one of the first in the region to not only be a tour guide, but

to truly open her home to visitors from all over the world. “We believe in offering an intimate experience for our guests. Whether it is on an RIB boat to try and catch a glance of a whale or study the sea wildlife, or on a northern lights safari looking for that aurora magic, we always travel in small groups,” explains Risvik. The family use their family farm as a base and know that with venturing into nature also comes great responsibility. “We were the first in Norway to have boats carrying the blue flag − sustainability is one of our core values,” explains Risvik, on their proud use of the world-renowned eco-label. Web: www.tromso-friluftsenter.no

A homely mountain hotel

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Olav Storm

Venabu Fjellhotell is beautifully situated in the majestic mountains at the heart of the stunning Norwegian nature. Here, you can relax in a peaceful atmosphere while participating in a variety of real nature experiences. Located in the middle of an open plateau surrounded by rounded peaks and a view of Rondane National Park, this cosy hotel resort is the perfect setting for your unique Scandinavian autumn and winter experiences. Rent a charming room in the traditional Norwegian mountain lodge, or one of the private cabins situated close to the hotel. With its warm environment, friendly staff and homemade food, you can find peace and harmony while taking part in the many activities and excursions available right outside your doorstep. “Our focus is on Norwegian traditions and locally sourced food, something we are very proud to give our guests,” says Marthe Norbye Dybos. The hotel offers a variety of outdoor experiences such as ski safari, snowshoeing, horse-sleigh rides, dog sledding and ski-

ing lessons, while it is also possible to enjoy their sauna, fitness room and a nearby swimming pool. “Guided ski tours are our specialty, and we have something for everyone, whether it is beginners, families or those who want a challenge,” Dybos says. “This area is one of the best in Norway when it comes to cross country skiing. We are lucky to have 140 kilometres of marked and prepared trails in varied mountain terrain, with summits up to 1,400 metres,” Dybos explains. “I recommend visiting during Christmas and New Year, for an unforgettable and magical celebration in true Norwegian style.”

Web: www.venabu.no Facebook: venabu

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 59

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Plant Power Food. Photo: Plant Power Food

Conscious, sociable, and award-winningly tasty Smørrebrød and pølser? Think again. Denmark has much more to offer – including for those who would rather stick to greens only. Scan Magazine set off to explore the Danish culinary scene. As the true home of New Nordic Cuisine and a nation with proud maritime roots, it comes as no surprise that Denmark boasts an endless selection of mouthwatering eateries, from charming cafés and traditional inns to award-winning gastronomic establishments. Fish and seafood, unsurprisingly, are popular – es60 | Issue 116 | September 2018

pecially along the coastline – as are simple but consciously-created dishes made using locally sourced ingredients, just like the initiators of the New Nordic Cuisine Manifesto like them. But the Danish culinary scene is as multifaceted as its people, presenting colourful

dishes from all the corners of the globe as well as food haunts following the latest trends when it comes to lifestyle and dining out. In addition to traditional Danish eateries, we discovered everything from app-managed pincho-style social dining experiences to vegan pioneers and other sustainability geeks. Bring your taste buds for a ride. Denmark will surprise and wow you in more ways than one.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

The Fat Pike. Photo: Mikkel Bækgaard

Photo: Luckyday, Nordic Cookery

Photo: Robin Skjoldborg

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 61

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

A cosy place for a relaxing time Ribehøj has made a virtue out of creating a cosy and relaxing atmosphere for its guests. The hotel offers homely rooms with an eye for the personal touch, while the gourmet restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and innovative food. By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Ribehøj

Finding the time to let one’s hair down during a hectic everyday life can be difficult, but nonetheless, very much needed. At Ribehøj, they go the extra mile to make sure that you will feel welcome and relaxed from the moment you enter the premises. “We try to think about everything, and perhaps we do things a bit differently around here. Candles will be lit when you enter the room. We have five suites with a fireplace and six with a pre-heated Jacuzzi on a private terrace. Afterwards, you can go to our restaurant 62 | Issue 116 | September 2018

and try out our six-course meal in cosy surroundings. All of this hopefully helps you feel relaxed right away and ensures a warm welcome and positive stay,” says Kaare Byskov, who is the chef at Ribehøj − a hotel as well as a gourmet restaurant. Originally, Ribehøj was an old farm used for agricultural land, and the place has since then been passed on through generations. Carsten Kjær took over the place in 2002 and he quickly began to modernise the restaurant. In 2009, Kaare

Byskov became the chef at the restaurant after having started at Ribehøj as a dishwasher back in the day, and three years later, he joined Kjær in running the place. “It’s a family driven place and hopefully that gives the spot a familiar and cosy feeling as well. We try our best to spoil our guests and give everything from the rooms to the food a personal touch,” says Byskov.

A gourmet experience Other than the cosy interior design in the rooms, as well as in the lounge, the location itself also helps the guests at Ribehøj to relax. Situated outside the city, there is not much to do other than just sit back and relax. “Being an old farm and all, we want to take our guests

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

back to the good old days, when there seemed to be more time to enjoy life. It’s very calm out here as there is not much around to distract you,” says Byskov with a smile. Besides the relaxing sensation and the pampering, the guests also come for the food experience at the gourmet restaurant. Indeed, some guests come from far away just to get a taste of the innovative, yet traditional food served at Ribehøj, that they have heard so much about. “Just like our hotel should give you the feeling of having more time and being relaxed, we try to be true to our background and the local area when preparing the food. We want to get back to a time where people made everything

themselves. When you made extra food during the summer and stored supplies for the winter, and when you had to have a small garden where you grew your own vegetables. We have many local manufacturers that specialise in making strawberries, milk or potatoes, and we use their products to ensure quality but also to tell a story with our food,” says Byskov, and adds: “To ensure a complete experience for our guests who often spend a few hours eating, our chairs are a mix between a regular chair and an armchair, as it helps them to relax and feel at home.”

An innovative kitchen Although the food is very traditional in many ways, it does not mean that it is also old fashioned or boring. Quite the

contrary, actually. When people from all over the country decide to spend an evening trying out the restaurant’s sixcourse meal, they also come for the innovation that Byskov and Ribehøj have become so well-known for. “We approach our food with curiosity and innovation, as there are no dogmas that prevent us from experimenting with the ingredients. That being said, we don’t experiment just for the sake of it, and we don’t want the experience to become too weird. The taste is still the main thing and it has to taste well. We use the ingredients from our local surroundings and our neighbours, but we make a virtue out of presenting the food in an interesting manner.” Web: www.ribehoej.dk

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 63

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

The Fat Pike serves generous portions of fresh seafood from the Danish waters.

No-fuss seafood in memorable settings Set in a warehouse from the early 20th Century, the restaurant The Fat Pike combines a laidback atmosphere with tasty and inspiring seafood dishes. The nofuss restaurant is located just a mile from Copenhagen City Hall.

our guests feeling happy and at ease,” Klitbo says.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: The Fat Pike

As the founder of Cofoco, a restaurant franchise which, when Klitbo sold the company, consisted of around 20 restaurants, Klitbo is known in all of Copenhagen as ‘Mr Value for Money’. With restaurants such as Höst and Llama, both famous for their spectacular interior design and affordable, high-quality food, amongst his previous successes, Klitbo’s aim has always been to make memorable dining experiences accessible for everybody; The Fat Pike is no exception.

The neon sign on the rough walls outside The Fat Pike welcomes guests into a seafood restaurant that is anything but traditional. Once a warehouse for the supermarket chain Coop, the restaurant building used to contain a myriad of goods – from Kenyan coffee to classic Danish design furniture. The coffee and the Danish furniture are still present but in a very different setting. Established and owned by Torben Klitbo, the founder of Cofoco, The Fat Pike was 64 | Issue 116 | September 2018

created in March 2018, with an ambition to present all the best of Danish seafood in a simple, honest and inspiring way. In short, Klitbo wanted his latest restaurant to put an end to the idea that fish and seafood are equal to small portions, starched napkins and highbrow waiters. “Our approach to seafood is very unpretentious and genuine. We don’t care too much about the etiquette. What we really care about is the freshness of our food – and of course, we care about

‘Mr Value for Money’

Though The Fat Pike’s kitchen is based on Nordic ingredients and philoso-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

phy, the head chef, Israel Karasik, is American. Karasik has been cooking seafood in kitchens all along the east coast of the United States – from New England and New York to Florida. At The Fat Pike, his innovative and informal take on food is reflected in the generous servings of oysters, clams, lobsters and fish from the Danish waters. “You have the clue for the name of the restaurant in our servings – the belly of the pike is wellfilled,” jokes Klitbo.

A cocktail for your oyster – why not? The Fat Pike’s unpretentious concept also shines through in its drinks selec-

tion. There is no French Chablis to accompany the oysters; the classic wines typically found in seafood restaurants have been replaced with an innovative and creative drinks list. On it, guests will find Spanish and Latin American wines, wines with strong conceptual labels, as well as cocktails and Danish craft beer from small breweries. “We don’t try to influence your preferences when it comes to the food/drinks pairing. If you just love to have a beer or a cocktail to go along with your tuna tartare, or a glass of red wine for your turbot instead of a white, then you have

to have that! Because we would rather have happy guests than conform to some fixed idea about how things ought to be. We only recommend that your glass isn’t empty,” Klitbo says with a smile. Indeed, The Fat Pike aims to make guests feel at home in every way. This is also reflected in the interior of the old warehouse, which, with an industrial design combined with naval items and raw materials, creates a relaxed and urban atmosphere. In short – if you are looking for an edgy seafood experience a world away from the classic tourist spots, The Fat Pike is the place to go.

The neon sign outside The Fat Pike welcomes guests into a seafood restaurant that is anything but traditional.

What? The Fat Pike restaurant Where? Njalsgade 19 D, Copenhagen S When? Open Monday-Saturday (Sunday closed) How? Book a table on www.food8.dk/ the-fat-pike

The unpretentious atmosphere of The Fat Pike is reflected in an industrial and urban interior.

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 65

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

Beautiful and nutritious, Plant Power Food in Copenhagen has taken vegan food to the next level.

The beauty of plant-powered food Serving nutritious and beautiful plant-based meals, Copenhagen’s new vegan venture, Plant Power Food, has made veggie food more tempting than ever. Run by two dedicated vegans, athlete Casper Bilton and chef Neel Engholm, the restaurant has become a hit with both loyal vegans and curious first-timers. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Plant Power Food

When professional handball player Casper Bilton decided to try to adhere to a more plant-based diet four years ago, it was literally a game changer. Soon, the athlete started seeing improvements in not just his asthma but also in his performance on the court. The changes were also noticed by his coach and teammates, and gradually, Bilton became so convinced of the health benefits, that he decided to adopt a 100 per cent 66 | Issue 116 | September 2018

not getting enough calories,” explains Bilton. “We want to show people how to do it properly – even though the food is beautifully presented, it’s easy to look into and see how it can be done at home.”

Everyday gourmet vegan diet. Three and a half years ago, Bilton met his partner Neel Engholm, a dedicated vegan chef, and last year, the two decided to start Plant Power Food in Copenhagen’s vibrant Nørrebro neighbourhood. “We wanted to show people how to do vegan food the right way. A lot of people are interested in the lifestyle, but they don’t really know how to get started, so they fumble around and end up eating way too many green leaves and

Nominated as vegan athlete of the year twice, Bilton is, if anyone, a living example of the power of plant food. However, it is his girlfriend Neel, who is behind the recipes at Plant Power Food. “I have a passion for the nutritional aspect of vegan food, but I’m not the best chef, whereas Neel has great passion for, and lots of experience within, menu development. So it was sort of an obvious choice for us to start our own place together,” Bilton says.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

Having previously worked as head chef and menu developer in numerous vegan venues in Copenhagen and Barcelona, Neel has created a menu that presents powerful plant food in a beautiful, yet simple way. “There are lots of vegan places in Copenhagen, but what we felt was missing was a place that fully embodied the possible health benefits of vegan food,” explains Bilton. “At the same time, we wanted to create a more aesthetic presentation of the food than we saw in other places − a menu full of nutritious, filling and beautiful meals; it’s an everyday gourmet experience.”

A plant-based mecca Located in Nørrebro, Plant Power Food is right at the heart of a mounting plantbased movement in the Danish capital. “We chose Nørrebro for our location because we both love the place and its diversity. But also, we feel that it’s becoming a bit of a plant-based mecca in Copenhagen.

There’s a lot of vegan alternatives shooting up in the area, and that’s a movement we want to be a part of,” says Bilton. Since opening in November last year, Plant Power Food has gained a loyal following amongst dedicated vegans, but has also experienced many guests who drop in to try vegan food for the first time. The restaurant also offers beautifully presented food for events, something which is, says Bilton, popular with committed vegans who want to introduce vegan food to their friends and family. But, while Bilton and Neel are eager to spread the benefits of vegan food, guests do not have to fear being served a moral lecture with their dinner. “I feel the best way to promote vegan food is by promoting its health benefits,” says Bilton, and rounds off: “It’s a choice that you should make for your own sake; ultimately you have to take care of your own health before you can take care of anything else.”

In short: Plant Power Food is owned by chef Neel Engholm and athlete Casper Bilton. Casper Bilton has played many years of professional handball and also works as a personal trainer and dietician for other plant-based athletes. In 2016 and 2017, Casper was nominated as vegan athlete of the year. Neel Engholm has previously worked as head chef and menu developer in numerous vegan venues in Copenhagen and Barcelona including Simple Raw and Souls. Plant Power Food is located in Fælledvej, a 15-minute walk from Nørreport Station. Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 10am 10pm

Web: www.plantpowerfood.dk

Located in the vibrant Nørrebro neighbourhood, Plant Power Food is part of a growing vegan movement in the Danish capital.

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

Traditional Danish food at its best

By Louise Older Steffensen Photos: Bardur Mikladal

The town of Gilleleje has been a favourite holiday destination for stressed-out Danes for decades. The old fishing village at Sealand’s northern tip has retained the charms of its past, but the town’s beaches, bustling harbour and ample independent shops and restaurants make it a lively and dynamic spot today. One of the true mainstays of Gilleleje, however, is the harbour-side restaurant Brasseriet, which has served up delicious Danish classics to hungry Gillelejan souls for the past 40 years. Chef Berit Bjørnestad took over Brasseriet in 2017, having previously run two restaurants in neighbouring towns. “We haven’t changed the menu too much,” she says. “We serve up classic dishes like plaice and no less than eight types of tartar – it’s what Brasseriet has always done best, and those traditional favourites have an important place in modern Danish culinary culture too.” The evening menu is small and exquisite, with four mains options and a special, often based on the local fishermen’s catches. The extensive lunch menu, meanwhile, shows off the Danish institution of smørrebrød: imagine a plethora of open sandwiches consisting of hot or cold fish or meat, such as herring, paté or roast beef, paired with a

canonical set of toppings and condiments for each type of sandwich. The smørrebrød prepation is undertaken by Jytte Støvlbæk, an undisputed expert with 50 years of experience at Denmark’s best smørrebrød restaurants, whom Bjørnestad was lucky enough to get on board. Together, they are a jolly, unstoppable force in the kitchen. “I feel like I’ve come home,” Bjørnestad says. Born and bred in Gilleleje, she remembers the restaurant from her childhood. “I actually worked here 20 years ago, back when it was Restaurant Karan og Marie and I was newly trained,” she recalls. “The restaurant may have received an update, but we retain its commitment to honest, wholesome food and hospitality.”

Where the Danes go to eat

68 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Web: www.brasseriet-gilleleje.dk Facebook: brasserietgillelejehavn Instagram: @brasseriet3250

By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Cafe Lindevang

For a true culinary experience of Denmark, the classics have to be tried; everything from an open sandwich to a traditional pork or beef dinner. And there is no better place to try these than in Café Lindevang, a restaurant that has been serving the classics since 1938. Copenhagen has over the years become a culinary capital, but getting a taste of the traditional Danish dishes can actually sometimes be a bit difficult in the nation’s capital. So, at a place like Café Lindevang, there is good reason why 80 per cent of the diners are regulars; people just love this kind of food. “We took over the running of the restaurant in 2007, and one thing was clear to us − we weren’t going to change anything. Of course, some things have modernised over the years, but deep down we’re making the kinds of dishes that our grandparents would have made for us. It’s homely, comforting food,” explains Carsten Jensen, co-owner of Café Lindevang. Café Lindevang is a little snapshot of Danish culture, where a herring platter

Berit and Jytte.

served with snaps and beer is a must-try, or maybe an open sandwich with roast beef or breaded plaice for lunch. For dinner, there are even more classics to be had, with most traditional dishes having some kind of meat, potato and pickled cucumber or red cabbage. Simple and absolutely delicious. If you are looking for a true taste of the Danish classics, then Café Lindevang is worth a visit, not only for the food, but also the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Bus: 9A from the city centre. Bus stop: Folkets Allé (Peter Bangs vej) Open: Mon-Sat Lunch: 11.30am-3.30pm Dinner: 4.30pm-9pm Web: www.cafelindevang.dk

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

The app restaurant taking Scandinavia by storm Just a short walk from Nørreport station in the centre of Copenhagen, lies Pincho Nation, a restaurant where booking a table, ordering and paying is all done via their app. With small plates featuring food from across the world, colourful cocktails and a circus and Moulin Rouge inspired décor, Pincho Nation is sure to draw you in, whatever your taste.

making it an easy place for everyone to enjoy a meal together. Pincho Nation have created a new dining experience where a fun culinary experience is at the centre of everything.

By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Pincho Nation

And for those without a smartphone or with a low battery, Pincho Nation has phones and chargers you can borrow!

The first thing you are greeted by at Pincho Nation is a lion that roars at you, before you are then given a bag of popcorn from the popcorn machine and shown to your table. And thus, the show can begin. Pincho Nation makes eating out a fun experience, where the diner is in control.

from the varied and large menu, which has very reasonable prices. “We always suggest people start with three or four tapas, and they can always order more.” The dishes are ordered via the app and are then collected at the bar alongside any cocktails or drinks.

“Everything is controlled via our app, and we’re the first app restaurant in the world,” explains Flemming Christophersen, director and co-owner of Pincho Nation in Denmark. “The app is used to book tables, as well as for ordering when you’re in the restaurant. And if you pay through the app as well, you earn bonus points that can be spent on dishes.”

There is a general feeling of fun and happiness inside Pincho Nation, with the colourful décor and tasty and photogenic food, as well as the vibrant cocktails which are decorated with sweets. “We want to make it a place where people can have fun and relax. The food becomes the focus and there’s a relaxed atmosphere throughout the restaurant.”

Small dishes at small prices The dishes are served tapas style and each person creates their own board

Pincho Nation caters for all, with clear descriptions of ingredients, lots of vegan and vegetarian dishes and both classic cocktails and non-alcoholic mocktails,

Web: www.pinchonation.dk Facebook: pinchonationdk Instagram: @pinchonationdk

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

A unique shellfish restaurant in Copenhagen With fresh seafood, big portions, an authentic atmosphere and affordable prices, Ristorante L’imperatore will always go out of their way to give you an experience you will never forget. By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Ristorante L’imperatore

Stepping into Ristorante L’imperatore is like stepping into Italy. The walls are painted with images of Italy, paintings of Venice are plastered all over the restaurant, and in the kitchen, Sicilian-born chef Armando di Raffaele is preparing your course in true Italian-style, as he has been ever since he opened up the restaurant two years ago. “Authenticity is a keyword for us. There are a lot of good shellfish restaurants here in Copenhagen, but none with the same atmosphere that you’ll find here. 70 | Issue 116 | September 2018

The interior design makes a difference and so does the fact that I prepare the dishes on recipes I learnt when I was living and working in Sicily as a chef,” says di Raffaele, who grew up in a kitchen, so to speak. His father had a restaurant in Palermo and di Raffaele quickly became a big part of that restaurant. In fact, he was still just a teenager when he became the chef at the restaurant. Since then, he has only refined his recipes. And so the guests at Ristorante L’imperatore

are always guaranteed a spectacular food experience, which a guest made di Raffaele aware of not too long ago. “After he had finished eating, he came to me and asked if I was the owner of the place. I said yes, and he told me that he just wanted to pay his compliments for everything we had done throughout the evening. He said it really felt like being in Italy.”

A spectacular experience The restaurant’s signature dish is the Grigliata Imperiale, a lavish and exclusive shellfish plate with everything you can possibly imagine. “We have guests travelling from far away just to try this dish, as there is really nowhere else you can get such an extravagant dish at such an affordable price. You get differ-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

ent kinds of lobsters, shrimps and crabs, and everything is completely fresh. There is nothing that has been frozen before we serve it. The way it has been prepared gives it a unique taste and the way it’s served makes it lavish in every meaning of the word,” says di Raffaele. Another famous dish at the restaurant is the Piatto Royale with steamed lobster, shrimps, Fine de Claire oysters and their wellknown Vongole. It is a special kind of shellfish, which Ristorante L’imperatore prepares from an original recipe from Palermo, to give it a distinctive taste.

The happy hour concept has been a big success and di Raffaele hopes to have caught the attention of the Danes when it comes to eating shellfish in general. “It seems like Danes are still not used to eating shellfish when not in Italy, or oysters when not in France, but it’s improving. I hope that my restaurant can help open their eyes, so they realise that they don’t have to travel to Italy to eat shellfish of the highest quality, have real Italian wines or experience a real Italian atmosphere,” says di Raffaele, and adds: “Sometimes you might see one of our

waiters bring out a guitar and start singing ‘O Sole Mio. Not because they have to or because we are trying to force an atmosphere, but because it’s who we are. We have fun while working and we want to share that fun with our guests. When the guests leave our restaurant, we want them to leave with a ‘wow’ feeling; a feeling of having eaten the real Italian way.”

Web: www.limperatore.dk Facebook: LimperatoreCph

Happy hour and happy days Usually, eating at a shellfish restaurant can be relative costly, but Ristorante L’imperatore has managed to put together an affordable menu for everyone. In fact, there are happy hours every day from Tuesday to Sunday, where you can try out their fresh oysters. “It was a concept I first saw when I was in Los Angeles. I passed by this shellfish restaurant with a massive line in the middle of the day, because people wanted to eat oysters. I brought the idea back to Denmark, so now you can come here every day between 5pm and 6pm, and eat oysters for ten Danish kroner a piece instead of the 30 to 35 Danish kroner that you often have to pay if you want oysters,” says Di Raffaele.

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

A cultural house for everyone Huset HAVS is more than just a restaurant. It is a cultural place with an unpretentious vibe in unique settings, and everyone is invited. It is just two months since Huset HAVS opened its doors to what they hope will become a cultural epicentre for the residents in and around Løkken. “Everything is still relatively new, but we’ve had some very positive first months. Our guests really like the unpretentious vibe we have, where you can sit and eat while other guests are walking around looking at surf gear in our surf shop,” says Jonas Brix, who is the owner of the place together with his brother Kasper Brix and his wife Bella Brix, as well as Christian Middelbo and Jette Nielsen. A few weeks ago, Jonas Brix started talking to one of the customers in the restaurant, who had come in to eat.. “While he was waiting for his burger, he decided to try on a wetsuit, and after he had eaten, he went to the shop and bought it. That really says a lot

to me about what kind of place people see this as,” says Brix with a smile. An old fishing boat divides the house with the restaurant on the right and the shop on the left, where you can buy surf gear as well as paintings and clothing for all ages. The settings are so unique, that Huset HAVS have already received inquiries from people who want to celebrate weddings and birth-

By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Huset HAVS

days at their premises. In the future, the plan is to change the menu card every now and then, and arrange theme weekends, so that the place keeps changing and people keep coming back for more. “We want Huset HAVS to be known as a place with a lot of life, where it never gets stiff, and where everyone feels welcome,” concludes Brix.

Food at the heart of the community There is nothing that can bring people together the way food can, something that is definitely true of Nokken, a restaurant in Nykøbing Sjælland, Denmark. Nokken is run by the Noesgaard family and has given life and good spirits to the local community and its many summer visitors. By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Café Nokken

Nokken is run by Michael and Victor Noesgaard and their parents, all of whom have worked in the hospitality industry. The brothers wanted to make their mum’s dream of running her own place a reality. “We’ve really loved the way the locals have welcomed us from the beginning,” says Victor. The restaurant offers traditional Danish fare with something for everyone both in taste and price level. “Alongside the restaurant, the space is also used as a gallery showcasing Danish artists from across the whole of Denmark. The displays get changed on a monthly basis so there’s always something new to be discovered.” The gallery space can also be rented out for parties. 72 | Issue 116 | September 2018

“For many, the restaurant has become like a second home. There’s always a great atmosphere with people enjoying good food and a chat and a laugh across the room,” says Victor. In the summer, the population of Nykøbing Sjælland increases from around 5,000 to 50,000, with Nokken at the very centre of all that activity. Nokken is one of those delightful restaurants where you walk in and feel comfortable and at home. With a relaxed atmosphere and good food, it feels like you have been invited over for dinner at the Noesgaard’s. Facebook: Cafenokken

Facebook: husethavs

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

Lene Henriksen and Hanne Ovesen.

Denmark’s tartlet champions Hanne Ovesen and her wife Lene Henriksen had no experience whatsoever within the restaurant industry when they decided to open a café together in 2010. They relocated to the island of Alrø and decided to bring back the old Danish dishes tartlets and lemon mousse. Eight years later, Denmark’s ‘tartlet champions’ have served 108,315 giant tartlets to people flocking in from Denmark and beyond.

cord was a guy who ate five, but anyone should feel free to come by and beat it!”

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Cafe Alrø

In 2010, Lene had a career as a social worker and Hanne worked as a maths and physics lecturer in Horsens. “Oh, we just thought we could do with a bit of a change,” Hanne says, when asked about the reasons behind the switch in direction. “One day, we drove across the dam to tiny, idyllic Alrø and fell in love with this colourful old farm house. This place oozed old-style eccentricity; something we could deliver.” Lene is also an artist and has worked with locals to make a trail of stone sculptures scattered across Alrø, which tells visitors about the island. The café is a treasuretrove of homemade artworks and oddities, including a bottle-opener collection. “We must offer guests who come all this way a fun, nostalgic experience,” Hanne

explains. “What delicious food did our grandmothers make? That’s how we hit on tartlets and lemon mousse.” “We were young and naïve back then,” Lene chuckles. “I had a silly little 2.5litre saucepan; now the 20-litre one gets filled up many times a day!” Danish tartlets are savoury shortcrust or puff pastry shells, holding in thick, soupy fillings such as chicken and asparagus or salmon and prawns. Normally small enough to gobble up several, Café Alrø’s tartlets reach the size of about 400 grammes each: they are renowned as the biggest in Denmark and a whole meal in themselves. “We get Copenhageners, Germans, Swedes coming in to sample them, but also, importantly, the lovely locals,” Hanne concludes. “Our re-

Web: www.cafealroe.dk E-mail: cafe@cafealroe.dk Phone: + 45 2211 0338

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | A Taste of Denmark

Left: Café Genlyd is located in the heart of one of Bornholm’s most beautiful natural attractions, the Echo Valley. Right: Café Genlyd’s enormous patty shells with creamed chicken have become a bit of an attraction in their own right. Photo: Semko Balcerski

An echoing success Located in the stunning Echo Valley on Bornholm, Café Genlyd oozes quirkiness and charm. Famous for its homemade ‘grandma food’, fairytale-like beauty, and intimate concerts, the small café has become a bit of an institution on the small island. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Christian Froberg Dahl

It is not just that Ekkodalshuset and Café Genlyd are located in the heart of one of Bornholm’s most beautiful natural attractions, or that it serves delicious homemade food. The charm of the small eatery is rooted in something more intangible. Amongst Bornholm’s oldest continuously running eateries, the café is today run by husband and wife Joan and Christian Froberg Dahl. “I don’t know what it is,” explains Christian Froberg Dahl. “When we took over in 2013, it was just the two of us, but we quickly got really busy; now we’re 11 employees and we’re number one on TripAdvisor. And considering how many really brilliant restaurants the island has, that’s a bit crazy.” Having previously worked in the music industry, Froberg Dahl has managed to get a number of celebrated Danish musicians such as Allan Olsen and Big Fat Snake to come play at Café Genlyd. But while the small, intimate music events 74 | Issue 116 | September 2018

are undoubtedly part of the café’s appeal, what has defined it is, perhaps more surprisingly, its huge creamed chicken in patty shells. With a width of 16.5 centimetres, the patty shells have become a bit of a sensation, with a competition to see who could eat the most developing on social media. The shell was developed by Joan and local baker Jesper Dam. “Joan and Jesper spent most of half a year developing the recipe for the perfect shell – it’s not easy making a shell that is that big and still keeps its crispiness,” stresses Dahl. Today, the café sells 30,000 patty shells each year, the equivalent of 15 tonnes of creamed chicken cooked by Joan who heads up Café Genlyd’s kitchen. “The competition wasn’t started by us but it sort of went a bit crazy on social media, so we had to take over to mediate, and today it’s a competition between competitors from the different parts of Denmark,” explains Dahl.

The current record in the competition is four patty shells, the equivalent of 2.3 kilogrammes. Something which, stresses Dahl, is probably not advisable from a health perspective. However, as a treat for the soul, a standard visit to Ekkodalshuset and Café Genlyd is sound advice.

Web: www.ekkodalshuset.dk

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Between heaven and earth – a celebration of CoBrA art The Carl-Henning Pedersen & Else Alfelt Museum (CHPEA) is celebrating the 70th anniversary of CoBrA – an artistic movement rooted in Copenhagen, Brussels and Amsterdam – with not just one, but four new exhibitions. Exploring Henning Pedersen’s preparations for the redecoration of Ribe Cathedral, as well as Else Alfelt’s interest in Zen Buddhism, the exhibitions convey the width and originality of the two CoBrA artists. By Signe Hansen | Photos: CHPEA Museum

Known for its fairytale-like settings and outstanding collection of works by CoBrA artists Carl-Henning Pedersen and Else Alfelt, the CHPEA Museum in Herning is visited by fans of CoBrA art from all over Europe. Thus, it is only appropriate that the anniversary of the international CoBrA group’s foundation should be celebrated with a big ado. Under the headline Sans og Samling [a 76 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Danish term referring to the common sense that one loses when excited or drunk, but also directly translated as ‘sense and collection’), the celebration contains four exhibitions with works from Pedersen and Alfelt. Museum Director Lotte Korshøj says: “With Sans og Samling, we wish to celebrate the CoBrA movement by placing a renewed focus on the museum’s own CoBrA art-

ists, Carl-Henning Pedersen and Else Alfelt, so unlike other previous celebrations of CoBrA it’s not the artist group in its entirety that’s being explored. Instead, we highlight features of Alfelt and Pedersen’s work which reach right into the essence of CoBrA and mark their contribution to the multifaceted artistic movement that CoBrA was.” While all four exhibitions show work by Pedersen or Alfelt, each is very distinct. The first, Between Heaven and Earth, focuses on Carl-Henning Pedersen’s preparations for the redecoration of Ribe Cathedral; the second, Flower of the Universe, explores Alfelt’s fascination with Zen Buddhism; while the third, Volière/ Fuzzy, fuses the media of music and paint-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

ing presenting an electro-acoustic piece inspired by Pedersen’s paintings, created by Danish composer Fuzzy. Opening in late September, the fourth exhibition will, with work by Pedersen and Dutch painter Eugène Brands, explore the wider scope of the CoBrA movement.

A controversial affair It is fair to say that it caused quite a stir when, in the early 1980s, Pedersen was asked to redecorate Ribe cathedral, Denmark’s oldest cathedral. A heated debate on the church and modern art ensued, and, even today, the appropriateness of the murals is still disputed. Between Heaven and Earth presents a selection of the sketches and notes the artist made in his preparation for the work. Some of the sketches only recently reappeared and have never been publically exhibited before. “The rediscovery

of the sketches was a great surprise and joy – a quite unique find,” says Korshøj. “After Pedersen’s death in 2007, many works, including sketches, photos and notebooks, were accepted into the museum’s collection. We haven’t had the chance to study all the works yet, and these sketches just happened to pop up during the preparations for the anniversary exhibitions; it was an amazing discovery, almost too good to be true.” Carl-Henning Pedersen also left behind a diary containing his thoughts and concerns during the time of the Ribe decoration. “A church painter I will never be”, he writes in the diary. Nonetheless, as the exhibition demonstrates, the artist not only came well prepared for the task but also, as was characteristic for his way of working, worked from the inspiration of the moment.

Zen Buddhism, yoga and CoBrA A very different view of religion is explored in Elsa Alfelt’s exhibition Flower of the Universe. Inspired by the artist’s travels in Japan and her fascination with Zen Buddhism, the exhibition presents a series of colourful meditative paintings created by Alfelt in the 1960’s. The works are presented in a way that aims to encourage viewers to move into a meditative contemplation. “You can’t view the works of Alfelt in the same way that you would view a work by, for instance, Asger Jorn, or Pedersen. She has an altogether different approach, it’s almost a form of nature mysticism,” explains Korshøj. “She created 100 works all named Flower of the Universe and all almost identical. They’re all spirals of the same size and shape and that means that the meaning quickly runs empty. If you look at them looking for a

To celebrate the 70th anniversary of CoBrA, the CHPEA Museum is presenting four new exhibitions with art by Carl-Henning Pedersen and Else Alfelt.

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

The Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum in Slovakia is currently presenting a large exhibition of works from the CHPEA Museum’s collection. Photo: Ubo Pirko

story, you’ll be looking in vain. But if you look at them from a Zen Buddhist viewpoint, you’ll realise that the meaning of the work is not supposed to come from the painting itself, but from within you. It’s about using the image to access your own inner consciousness.” In line with this thinking, the museum will also offer a number of meditative yoga classes in the exhibition space, and the Zen garden created by Alfelt for her original exhibition is recreated so that visitors can create their own perishable artwork in the sand.

Beyond borders While the Sans og Samling exhibition is taking place at the CHPEA museum in Herning, CoBrA fans will also be able to enjoy works of Pedersen and Alfelt in new locations. Currently the museum is collaborating with the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum in Slovakia, where guest can enjoy a large exhibition of works from the CHPEA Museum’s collection. It is not the first time the museum has been creating international collaborations; in 2017, A Fabulous Encounter, an exhibition of bronze sculptures by Denmark’s late Prince Henrik, as well as the paintings by Pedersen, was exhibited in Spain, and later, the exhibition will be travelling to France, Helsinki and New York. “For the last three years, it’s 78 | Issue 116 | September 2018

very much been our ambition to create a greater focus on the fact that the CoBrA movement was an international movement with relevance beyond the borders of Denmark. It has taken some work to get that across, but we’ve succeeded,” says Korshøj.

One of the CHPEA Museum’s anniversary exhibitions is Flower of the Universe, a series of works inspired by Else Alfelt’s fascination with Zen Buddhism.

About the CHPEA Museum Carl-Henning Pedersen (1913 – 2007) and Else Alfelt (1910-1974), both renowned CoBra painters, met each other in Elsinore in 1933, and married soon after.

The Sans og Samling anniversary exhibition ends Spring 2019.

It was Else Alfelt who introduced Carl-Henning Pedersen to painting.

About CoBrA

The idea for the museum originated when, in 1966, Carl-Henning Pedersen offered to donate his entire collection to the Danish State.

70 years ago, the CoBrA artists got together in a new artistic movement with the agenda of creating more focus on play, creativity, and artistic freedom. CoBrA stands for Copenhagen, Brussels and Amsterdam. Following the Second World War, the artists in CoBrA wanted to return to the starting point for all art – the pure joy of sensual, artistic creation, something which, according to CoBrA, has been inherent in all humans through all times. Even though the group only existed from 1948-1951, it became a great artistic influence.

Web: www.chpeamuseum.dk

In 1976, the museum opened its door to a collection of 6,000 works by CarlHenning Pedersen and Else Alfelt. In 2015, the museum was extended with an underground hallway leading to Angli, where Carl-Henning Pedersen’s monumental frieze, Imagination’s Play around the Wheel of Life, is located. The Museum is situated in Birk Centerpark, in the eastern part of Herning. Birk offers a variety of cultural experiences including a sculpture park and The Geometrical Gardens. Museum opening hours: Tuesday Sunday, 10am - 4pm.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

The Cupola Hall and the adjoining reading rooms, designed by Engel in the 1830s, are one of the best-known examples of Empire style architecture in Finland.

The National Library of Finland:

The home of Finnish values, identity and culture Deep underneath Helsinki’s Senaatintori Square, carved into the solid rock, lies the archive of the National Library of Finland. The archive safeguards Finnish cultural heritage by storing printed and audiovisual materials, as well as collecting and preserving documents published on the internet. “The focus is on the future,” says Professor Kai Ekholm, the national librarian. By Anne Koski-Wood | Photos: Marko Oja

When Ekholm started his post as a national librarian at the National Library of Finland 17 years ago, he wanted to achieve a few goals: to renovate the 174-year-old building, digitise the library collections and lower the admission threshold to visit the library. Now, retiring from his post, he has completed 80 | Issue 116 | September 2018

his objectives. During his time, the world has changed and the growing traffic on the internet has created new challenges. One could ask: what is the point of storing printed materials, when a lot of it is available online anyway? Ekholm reminds us that most researchers will almost always want to see the original

pieces. Viewing an original item in real life is always an experience and might give an insight, which could be missed if only doing research on the internet. Ekholm does not see any competition between online archives and built archives. “We need them both.”

A book can change someone’s life “Books have a form of responsibility,” Ekholm states. “That’s why it’s so crucial to write them well!” He is happy that currently, Finland has many young writers who have a lot to say, but wishes authors had more back up both financially and in general.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

Ekholm is worried about screens taking over books. He calls the current age the ‘ephemeral era’: “Things on social media that are born in the morning, are dead by the evening. The aim of these different phenomena that appear on our screens is to block our memory and to keep us hooked, so that we can be sold more stuff we don’t need, while we are losing touch with cultural knowledge and inner truth. All that is left are some fragmented truths, from which we have to re-build our world.” The National Library, on the other hand, offers a point of connection, where culture is shared and moves from one generation to the next. “In the same way that nobody actually owns colours, no one owns culture either, but sharing it joins us as a nation. People want to be part of a culture.”

The real treasure: private collectors One vital aspect keeping the cultural heritage alive are the private collectors.

Detail from the north reading room.

Treasures, such as a book that used to belong to the so-called father of Finnish literature, Mikael Agricola, are mostly acquired via donations.

These collectors have dedicated their lives to their passion by collecting rare books, maps, and special editions. Plus, their donations keep the national heritage alive and constantly evolving. Ekholm calls these gifts and donations ‘success stories’, and they have enhanced Ekholm’s career along the way. He gives the example of a collector who had finally found and purchased some manuscripts by Jean Sibelius at Sotheby’s. “The package arrived in July, but I had to wait for the right moment to open it. Finally, the time arrived a month later, when I could hand over a pair of scissors to the collector and ask her to open it. That moment, when Sibelius arrived home, has forever stuck in my memory.” Web: www.kansalliskirjasto.fi Facebook: Kansalliskirjasto Twitter: @NatLibFi Instagram: @natlibfi

Kai Ekholm. Photo: Heini Lehväslaiho

The A. E. Nordenskiöld collection contains maps, geographical literature, travel accounts and book rarities. In 1997, the collection was included in the UNESCO Memory of the World registry. Photo: National Library

The National Library was designed by Carl Ludvig Engel in 1844.

The extension for Engel’s building, Rotunda, was designed by Carl Gustaf Nyström in the early years of the 1900s.

The rarest materials are available for study in the special collections reading room. Photo: National Library, Veikko Somerpuro

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 81

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

Left: Ovartaci. No title. Gouache on canvas. Right: Lars Waldemar: En voksende følelse af ensomhed (A growing feeling of loneliness) 2018. Mixed materials. Photo: Lars Waldemar. Below right: Ovartaci. Århusianernes forvandling (The transformation of the Aarhusians). Oil on Canvas. Bottom right: Bed room in the psychiatry exhibition.

Raw and unfiltered – the art of the mentally ill For a few months more only, visitors can explore Museum Ovartaci in its original settings at Aarhus University Hospital. The museum offers an encounter with one of Europe’s largest collections of art created by people suffering from mental illness, as well as an exploration of the history of psychiatry.

Museum Ovartaci will open in temporary locations in Katrinebjerg in Aarhus, in early 2019.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Museum Ovartaci

From November this year, Museum Ovartaci will be moving out of its current location in the psychiatric department of Aarhus University Hospital. Built by the renowned Danish architect Michael Gottlieb Bindesbøll in 1852, the beautiful building provides a unique setting for the museum’s captivating exhibitions. “Just the fact that the museum is located in an old hospital department shakes things up a bit,” explains museum director Mia Lejsted. “Since the 19th century, so many people have lived out their fates here and that has left a mark − there’s a special energy here from the building and its history.” Ovartaci, the man the museum is named after, was an artist and a patient at the hospital from 1929 until his death in 1985. But the art collection of Museum Ovartaci goes even further back, containing works from patients from all the way back to 82 | Issue 116 | September 2018

its treatment methods and patients are depicted through recreated patient rooms, medical equipment and illustrations.

1902, as well works by modern-day artists. The common denominator is that all artists have been affected by mental health disorders. Their art, combined with the museum’s historic exhibition on psychiatry, make for a raw and sometimes overwhelming experience, reveals Lejsted. “Both the art and history section of the museum tell some strong stories, and we haven’t glossed over anything; it’s raw and unfiltered, and sometimes it can be a bit difficult. But it can also be incredibly uplifting and inspiring − you move around the whole spectrum of emotions and learn a lot during a visit here.” The museum’s art collection contains more than 9,000 artworks, including everything from small wood cuttings from past patients to video installations by modern-day artists. Around 600 of those works are exhibited in the downstairs art museum, while the history of the hospital,

Web: www.ovartaci.dk

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

Left: Tiina Lindfors, performing in the production Callas. Middle top: From the piece HITtoCaBBAret. Photo: Ulla Andersong. Middle below: From the production Sinfonia. Right: Lassi Sairela and Eeva Soini, in the production Irralliset. Bottom right: James McNamara. Photo: Vesa-Matti VääräKuvastaja Oy.

Influential performances Making ambitious dance combined with theatrical stories, dance theatre ERI has been creating powerful performances since 1989. After nearly 30 years, the multiawarded ensemble’s productions, often focused on human rights and even political issues, are still moving audiences in Finland and abroad. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Matti Kivekäs

Founded in Turku, Finland, by highprofile Finnish dancer-choreographers Tiina Lindfors, Eeva Soini and Lassi Sairela, ERI quickly became known for its powerful and unique performances in Finland and abroad. “We’ll be celebrating our 30th year next year, which is no mean feat for an independent theatre group that started out from nothing,” says Lindfors. ERI is a play on the Finnish word for dance theatre, ‘tanssiteatteri’, and ‘eri’, which means different. “As our name suggests, we make theatre passed through the medium of dance. But we have always done things differently. We have held on to traditional dance techniques, and believe that high-quality skills are the key for deep interpretation in acting. We have a mutual understand-

ing of what dance theatre should be like: a balance between deeply emotional and thought-provoking performances,” Lindfors states. With 400 guest performances in over 30 countries under their belt, as well as a number of highlyesteemed awards on Finland’s art scene and abroad, ERI’s bold programme includes over 100 productions.

Maria Callas, written, directed and choreographed by Lindfors, and this autumn sees the return of ERI’s collaboration, Baila Afrika, with a music group from Benin. “We are constantly evolving. Each production is a standalone project, that develops throughout its journey; from the début performance all the way through to closing night,” she says. “In the words of Finnish ex-President, Mauno Koivisto: ‘An artist has to have something to say, and the ability to get the message heard’ – and we still have a lot more to say,” Lindfors concludes.

The themes are often human issues, and previous productions have covered stories surrounding minorities, topics such as ageism, and the importance of multiculturalism. “Art has a certain responsibility in society; it is our duty to speak out against injustice, and inspire our audiences,” Lindfors says. Recent productions include an impressionistic performance on opera singer

Web: www.eri.fi

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 83

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

A unique way to take in the views Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take in the city views from a sauna, 40 metres above the ground? Now you can find out for yourself, as SkyWheel Helsinki offers just that, plus much more. From regular Ferris wheel tours to special VIP experiences, SkyWheel Helsinki has been attracting tourists and locals alike since 2014. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: SkyWheel Helsinki

Situated in Katajanokka, in the heart of Helsinki’s city centre, the SkyWheel Helsinki observation wheel overlooks some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Uspenski Cathedral and UNESCO world heritage site, Suomenlinna. There are 30 climate-controlled gondolas that seat six to eight people comfortably, and the experience lasts around ten minutes, but extended special tours can be pre-booked, such as the New Year’s Eve experience, where visitors get a glass of champagne while they watch the fireworks over the city. SkyWheel Helsinki also offers visitors a Veuve Clicquot VIP Experience that in84 | Issue 116 | September 2018

cludes a bottle of Veuve Clicquot, a beautifully decorated private VIP-gondola with leather seats, relaxing music, air conditioning and even a glass floor. “From marriage proposals to business meetings, family days out and team building days, we can offer something for everyone. SkyWheel Helsinki makes a stylish and unique venue for different celebrations and corporate events such as conferences. We cater to individuals, small group and larger parties too,” says Jaron Duivestein, the company’s CEO. Perhaps the most unique aspect of the SkyWheel is the SkySauna, an experience that combines a sauna in the sky with an

amazing sea view and a relaxing hot tub at ground level, and includes a drinks package. “This is a truly unique experience, as it’s the only one of its kind in the whole world. The sauna can be hired for up to 20 people, and is ideal for evenings among friends, bachelor parties, and those looking for something different. We can tailor packages to suit individual needs and create the ultimate experience,” Duivestein explains. The SkyWheel was supposed to stay in its place only until this year, but they have just been granted an extension, for at least the next five years. “This is a testament to our popularity, and what a great attraction it is. It is a unique experience for tourists and locals alike, and we aim to provide everyone with a memorable visit,” Duivestein concludes. Web: www.skywheel.fi and www.skysauna.fi

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

The amazing art of e-game design From Pacman to Assassin’s Creed, many games have grown iconic over time thanks to their unique design and immersive worlds. Electronic gaming has been around for almost 50 years; yet the intensive, extensive design which goes into it has been overlooked as an art form. From September to February, Herning Museum of Contemporary Art (HEART) is changing that with Denmark’s first e-game museum exhibition, NEXT LEVEL, co-curated by TV gaming expert and somewhat of a national treasure, Troldspejlet’s Jacob Stegelmann. “We want to show off the history of computer game design,” HEART director Holger Reenberg explains. “Why does it look the way it does? How does it draw us in?” HEART has worked with well-known gaming companies and developers, setting up an in-depth and multifaceted exhibition. It is interactive, allowing visitors to try out the games, from the earliest arcade games to the newest in VR. “The average museum-goer apparently only looks at an exhibit for 17 seconds. We’re pretty sure that’ll be different here.” Visitors follow the evolution of technology and design from the classic arcade games and games consoles of the late 1970s and ‘80s, to modern VR and open

world games. “The amount of detail, love and attention that goes into making these worlds is extraordinary,” Reenberg says. Along the way, the exhibition looks into the painstaking processes of building up landscapes, interiors and characters and their development over time. “A character like Lara Croft is fascinating. She started out as this ridiculously well-endowed, very strong bimbo. Later, to appeal more to girls too, her physical assets were toned down, but so was her strength. Why?” HEART has investigated the relationship between art and industry since its opening in 1977. “Films and film technology have long been considered art,” Reenberg

By Louise Older Steffensen Photos: Courtesy of Microsoft

concludes. “I think it’s well-deserved that e-game design is finally being recognised as art as well.”

Halo 5.

Minecraft.

Web: www.heartmus.dk Facebook: heartherningmuseumofcontemporaryart Instagram: @heartmuseum

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish and Finnish Culture Spotlight

Scan Business Keynote 86 | Business Profiles 87 | Business Calendar 90 | Seminar of the Month 91 | City Profile of the Month 92

Business communication and the World Cup By Steve Flinders

I love football – its occasional grace and artistic brilliance, the atmosphere, the excitement and tension, the pantomime theatricals, the highs and lows of fandom. And I love the way victory on the pitch can be a microcosm of organisational success. A football club should not be too hard to run, so the frequently dysfunctional cultures and 19th-century management practices, in British football at least, can be endless sources of fascination to both business and sporting observers. So too, can trying to understand the elements which contribute to a beautiful team and to its eventual decline. This summer, and to my shame, I was distracted by cunning Mr. Putin from giving much thought to Oleg Sentsov on hunger strike in a Russian jail, while I gorged on football. On the other hand, I did think quite a lot about how the four Ps contribute to a team’s success. For a couple of decades, I’ve used Preparation, Purpose, People and Process to 86 | Issue 116 | September 2018

help me in my own business communication and my clients’. It’s a simple formula to apply to most businesscommunication contexts, including presentations, meetings, negotiating, writing, telephoning... even professional socialising. If you spend the right amount of time planning your communication (Preparation), if you are clear about the objective (Purpose), if everyone understands what they have to do (People), and if the rules and procedures are clear (Process), then communication has a good chance of succeeding. These worked for World Cup teams too. I would argue that those with the greatest mastery of the four Ps performed best on the field, including Sweden and England: bravo to both. Why did Argentina crash out? Their coach seemed to have little understanding of these basics. Now I want to add another P to my handy checklist, for Performance, to embrace qualities like Pogba’s drive and creativity, Mbappé’s flair, and Modric’s ´ command and belief.

Great football can be a joy, and so can great workplace communication. It is worth working on.

Steve Flinders is a freelance trainer, writer and coach, based in Malta, who helps people develop their communication and leadership skills for working internationally: steveflind@aol.com.

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | BaseN

Turning products into intelligent services BaseN, founded in 2001 in Finland, enables clients to turn their products into intelligent services by gathering data using smart metres and sensors. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: BaseN

“Traditionally, manufacturers lose control of their product when it has been shipped off. With our smart products, the journey is only at its beginning,” says Pasi Hurri, BaseN’s president and chief executive officer. Currently, BaseN’s clients include telecom operators, integrators and multinational enterprises. The company moves businesses into the digital service world. Data can be collected easily in real-time, giving clients full insight into the product’s life cycle. “For example, through sensor-equipped building components such as heat pumps and even roof tiles, we gather data on the various conditions inside and outside the building,” Hurri states.

Spimes are the future Spime, a term coined by author Bruce Sterling, is a contraction of the words space and time, and is used to refer to the digital replica of a physical item, that has all its essential information stored in the cloud. From the first energy-efficient

apartment building where residents pay for their actual energy use only, monitored in real-time, to providing a faster reaction-time to issues for telecom companies, BaseN is able to provide many traditional industries new ways of generating revenue through intelligent services. “We’ve currently digitalised the work of more than 150,000 construction employees, as well as spimed buildings from single family villas to large apartment complexes,” Hurri explains. “Spimes are needed everywhere, and the world around us is changing. Until now, spimes have been created for big things, such as buildings and ship engines – but they will soon be expanded onto everyday, mass-produced items, too. BaseN’s spimes will provide invaluable information to manufacturers, and they will be able to mass customise their products.” The spimes run on BaseN Platform, to which the company has full intellectual property rights. “Our platform is scalable,

and works seamlessly, without interruptions to the service. Our biggest strength is that we own all of the infrastructure, including our own data centres and servers, and are not reliant on third-party services. We are able to offer our clients a long-term, all-encompassing, self-reliant service, all from under one roof,” Hurri concludes.

BaseN president and CEO, Pasi Hurri.

Web: www.basen.net

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 87

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | Limo Group Denmark

When punctuality and quality are all that matters Limo Group Denmark has made it their ambition to deliver the best possible transport service on the market. Not just for big celebrities or the rich, but for businessmen and companies who wish to leave nothing to chance when it comes to the transportation of their employees or guests. By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Limo Group Denmark

Imagine the situation of a taxi that does not show up on time. That might result in a missed plane, which then leads to a missed meeting and altered travel plans, which can be a costly affair. For most companies and businessmen, punctuality is of the utmost importance, and with Limo Group Denmark, you are guaranteed to get exactly that. “When you book a car through us, you don’t have to worry about the car being late or not showing up at all. We will be there on time and that’s guaranteed,” says Søren Christensen, who is the own88 | Issue 116 | September 2018

er of Limo Group Denmark. The company was founded 23 years ago and has become the go-to name when it comes to transportation for both national and international companies who want to have someone or something transported from one place to another, without having to worry about anything. Limo Group Denmark has plenty of experience and they always insist on using that very experience to stay ahead of things. When they first initiated their online booking system, no one on the market could offer what they wanted, so Christensen decided to build the platform himself.

“Whatever we do, it always has to be easy and very simple for our customers to book our cars. The client can book the transportation needed online via our system, and the day before the booking, they can see the name and number of the driver, so that they can contact them directly if there are any changes. Right now, we are working on a system where the person who is being picked up, receives a text message when their plane lands to inform them of the name and number of the driver, so that they can call the driver, should there be any trouble with them finding each other at the airport.”

Details, details, details One of the reasons to why Limo Group Denmark has been so successful, is their observant eye to every little detail. You will never see a driver standing with a hand-written sign, and the signs will be

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | Limo Group Denmark

held up in the appropriate height, so they are easy to spot for the client. Everything simply has to be in order. “Because we deliver such high quality, and we use quality cars, people often think that it might be very expensive to use our services. But the truth is, that it’s not much more expensive than ordering a taxi. And when you think about what it can cost a company if a taxi is late or doesn’t show up, you have got to ask yourself, if it is worth the potential trouble,” says Christensen, who makes a virtue out of picking the right drivers for his company. “You can have excellent cars, but if the drivers don’t deliver, it reflects poorly on the company. The driver is your collabo-

rator and right hand during the trip, and they are the face of this company.” Limo Group Denmark has a total of nine cars, and is the only one of its kind in Denmark that is CO2 neutral.

Taking care of everything Most of what Limo Group Denmark does, is the transportation of people from one place to another, but they are also capable of arranging larger transport tasks if needed. They have a number of partners they can call upon, and they have experience with transporting more than 1,000 people at a time. “Sometimes, big football teams come to the country and they perhaps need a bus

for the players, a few buses for sponsors and VIPs, and another for all their equipment, plus a private car for their president. We vouch for our partners and it just makes it easy for the client, that they only need to contact one company in order to get the whole job done,” explains Christensen, and concludes: “We have done a lot of work for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, and they always say that it’s just so easy for them booking through us, because once we have accepted the job, they don’t have to worry about a thing. It just works!”

Web: www.limogroup.dk

Søren Christensen.

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 89

Scan Magazine | Business | Profile / Calendar

Reinventing renewable energy storage Positioning themselves at the forefront of innovation when it comes to energy storage solutions, Teraloop’s new technology could revolutionise utility scale storage.

with the right support,” the company’s CEO, Ted Ridgway Watt, concludes.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Teraloop

Teraloop believe they can unlock the full potential of renewable energy by producing the world’s largest, cleanest and most economical kinetic energy storage system for industrial users and power-grid operators. Teraloop, founded in 2014 in Helsinki, Finland, develops technology for largescale kinetic energy storage using scalable hubless flywheels. “Flywheels are an old invention, but we’ve given them a new spin. Our patented core technology is the most efficient and durable solution, with over ten times the capacity of any other flywheel technology in the world,” says Philippe Pépin, Teraloop’s chief operations officer. Teraloop provides a grid-scale solution to one of the biggest challenges facing the renewable energy sector: how to balance de-

mand and supply cycles, and turn them into smooth, seamless streams. Renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, is often available only in short bursts, but Teraloop offers a constant stream of energy, without interruptions, with minimised environmental impact. Backed by a number of university faculties in Finland, as well as Finland’s public innovation agency, which has matched every donation from abroad, Teraloop will be piloting projects with end-users in 2019. “Teraloop’s objective is to develop technology to help decarbonise the energy system. Our progress so far has been remarkable. From our roots in Nordic innovation excellence and our committed team, we can make that ambition a commercial reality

Engineers Markus Merilä, Juuso Pöllänen and Syed Kazmi inspect the rotor.

The company’s engineering team with representatives of Yaskawa, Teraloop’s investors.

Web: www.teraloop.org

Business Calendar

By Sanne Wass

Scandinavian business events you do not want to miss this month Discussing Brexit The Swedish Chamber of Commerce and Danske Bank UK will host their second event in a series of exclusive Brexit discussions, inviting large Swedish corporations in the UK to participate in open discussions and ask questions about the ongoing Brexit negotiations. Speaking at the event will be Torbjörn Sohlström, ambassador of Sweden to the UK, and Mikael Milhøj, Danske Bank’s UK economist. Date: 18 September 2018, 8.30-10am Venue: Danske Bank UK, 75 King William Street, London EC4N 7DT, UK www.scc.org.uk

Nordic Digital Business Summit Now more than ever, advances in technology are impacting every business, and the Nordics in particular are seen internationally as a hotbed of this sort of innovation. The Nordic Digital Business Summit is a platform to facilitate and drive opportunities in the region, inviting technology professionals from 90 | Issue 116 | September 2018

across sectors to network and hear from global thought leaders on subjects that are set to shape their industries. Date: 5 October 2018 Venue: Messukeskus, Messuaukio 1, 00520 Helsinki, Finland www.ndbsevents.com

Human Rights and Business Demonstrating respect for human rights is becoming increasingly important for businesses. Addressing this topic, the Norwegian Embassy and the Norwegian-British Chamber of Commerce invite attendees for an evening at which to discuss human rights and business, with speakers from the Norwegian Embassy, Equinor, the Institute for Human Rights and Business and the Rafto Foundation for Human Rights. Date: 11 October 2018, 6-9pm Venue: The Norwegian Ambassador’s Residence, 10 Palace Green, London W8 4QA, UK www.nbccuk.com

Cleantech Venture Day Cleantech, namely technology and business associated with clean energy or environmental and sustainable products and services, is drawing more investor attention than ever before. Organised by Cambridge Cleantech and the Nordic Innovation Accelerator, this event will bring together innovative cleantech companies with experienced fund managers, ‘business angels’ and corporate investors. The day will offer interactive speed-dating sessions, inspiring speakers and dynamic pitches from investment-ready cleantech start-ups. Date: 30-31 October 2018 Venue: KPMG Number Twenty, Grosvenor Street, London W1K 4QJ, UK www.cleantechday.com

Scan Magazine | Seminar of the Month | Denmark

Margård Gods’ beautiful spaces offer homely settings for private and exclusive seminars. The manor is surrounded by a large, beautiful garden perfect for walk-and-talks.

Seminar of the Month, Denmark

A seminar in homely, private, and exclusive settings With its serene and undisturbed location, Margård Gods offers the perfect settings for private strategy meetings and product presentations. The beautiful Funenlocated manor hosts events for organisations from all over Denmark. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Margård Gods

Built in 1745, the picturesque white main building of Margård Gods, offers both a homely and exclusive venue for seminars of all kinds. The manor is run by Dorthe Møller and her husband Per Bo Hansen. “The fact that the manor is also our home means that despite the classic and exclusive interiors, we have a very homely atmosphere, and that’s something a lot of our guests notice and enjoy,” says Møller, who manages the manor’s events while her husband runs the agricultural production. She adds: “Another benefit of our set-up, is the complete privacy – we only ever host one event at a time and our location is withdrawn, away from any passing traffic or people.”

As there is never more than one group at the manor at the same time, guests have exclusive use of the beautiful rooms and spaces available. The main room, Havesalen (the garden room), can host events such as concerts and lectures for up to 70 people, but it is mainly used for smaller meetings, explains Møller. “We host a lot of strategy seminars for ten to 12 people. They can then use the large hall, where we have all our technical equipment, for presentations and meetings, move on to the fireplace lounge for smaller group discussions, and then perhaps to the billiard room for a bit of a break and a drink. And for breakfast, coffee, lunch, and dinner, there’s the dining room.”

On top of the selection of beautiful rooms, the manor also includes a large scenic garden, perfect for walk-andtalks or a quick recharge in lush green surroundings.

Margård Gods is located between Odense and Bogense, a two-hour drive from Copenhagen, 90 minutes from Aarhus and 20 minutes from Odense. The manor can host events for up to 70 people, but specialises in seminars for up to 12 people. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are based on the earth-to-table principle with local ingredients served in down-to-earth modern Danish dishes.

Web: www.margaard.com

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 91

Scan Magazine | City Profile of the Monthh | Denmark

A long list of major international artists have performed at Jyske Bank Boxen, Herning’s famous multi-purpose arena. Photo: Jyske Bank Boxen

City Profile of the Month, Denmark

Herning still wants more Having just hosted the Ice Hockey World Championships, Herning, a Danish town with a population of just under 50,000, has affirmed its place as one of the country’s top event hubs. However, the town and its event makers are not resting on their laurels; they still want more. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Herning City

Adele, Paul McCartney, and George Michael are all amongst the major celebrities to have paid Herning and Jyske Bank Boxen, the town’s famous indoor arena, a visit. Ten years ago, it might have seemed unlikely that names of this calibre would have performed anywhere but in a major city in Denmark, but they are actually just a few of a long list who have done so. How has this come about? It is all down to hard work and a continuous wish to do more. City director, Allan Birk 92 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Kristensen, one of the driving forces in the town’s powerful event machinery, explains. “We have a reputation for making things happen in Herning, and that’s why we’re landing these kinds of major events. It is not for nothing that, after Bologna, we’re the town in Europe with the most motorway connections – all roads lead to Herning; it’s quick to get here and it’s quick to get home again. But it is also proof that we have some people here who have taken things up in central govern-

ment and managed to get things through, who are passionate about their town and about building something special.” This spring, the hard work resulted in Herning becoming the smallest town ever to have hosted the Ice Hockey World Championships. The championship was co-hosted with the nation’s capital and more than doubled the population of Herning for the two weeks the event took place.

A new town centre The transformation of Herning is not just reflected in the many major concerts, conferences, and sports events taking place in the town, but also in the blooming of Herning City, the town cen-

Scan Magazine | City Profile of the Month | Denmark

tre. During major events, the streets fill up with visitors out to make a day of their outing, and, with a just-finished 20 million DKK (around 2.5 million GBP) refurbishment and a new pedestrian shopping street, the town centre is ready to lift its weight. “It’s been a major project and it’s something which we can feel a new pride about amongst the residents. I can’t remember there ever having been so many people in the town centre before,” says Kristensen, who as a born and bred Herningeser is himself a proud ambassador for his hometown. “I’m one of the few people who have never really felt the need to live anywhere else other than Herning; I’ve spent most of my life

here, and today, I’m extremely proud of my town,” he stresses.

Lifting together When Herning has been able to land and successfully host major events like the Ice Hockey World Championships, and Giro d’Italia, it is not just thanks to the individual drive of people like Kristensen; it is because of their ability to collaborate and lift together. “Herning City is just one of the many players which sit at the table when there’s a big event. The Ice Hockey World Championships was the largest sports event to be ever held in Denmark – to pull something like that off, you have to pull out all the stops, and we did. We

had everyone from the taxi drivers to the municipality and the police force sitting around the table, and the team spirit was just incredible,” says Kristensen, and rounds off: “But, even though a lot of people look at Herning and are impressed by how we’ve managed all this, nobody, neither our local politicians nor people like me, are allowing themselves to rest on their laurels – we continue to want more.” Read more about Herning: www.herningcity.dk www.mch.dk www.visitherning.dk www.herning.dk

Director of Herning City, Allan Kristensen, in the town’s newly refurbished town centre.

In April and May 2018, Herning became the smallest town ever to have hosted the Ice Hockey World Championships (co-hosted with Copenhagen).

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 93

This is my house! Alfons Ă&#x2026;bergs Kulturhus (Alfie Atkinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cultural Centre) is a creative cultural centre for children and their adults. This is a place where curious children can play, get up to mischief, climb and discover a world full os exciting things.

Slussgatan 1, Gothenburg, Sweden

alfonskulturhus.com

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

Left: Hotel Marina provides a relaxing and affordable base for visitors to explore Djursland. Right: A stay at Hotel Marina includes access to its pool and wellness area.

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

A seaside getaway for everyone Surrounded by beach and forests, Hotel Marina makes an ideal base for exploring Djursland. With a view of Kattegat, its own wellness area, and flexible meeting facilities, the hotel offers something for everyone.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Hotel Marina

Founded in 1968, Hotel Marina has been welcoming travellers looking to explore and relax in the beautiful landscape of Djursland for decades. The hotel provides easy access to some of Denmark’s best beaches, as well as two popular golf courses. And, for those rainy days, an inviting wellness area with pool, Jacuzzi, fitness centre, steam bath, and more, offers the perfect ‘plan b’. “The ambition in the later years has been to create a relaxing and affordable base so that everybody can get a chance to come and enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the area,” says hotel manager Anita Hansen. Last year, Hotel Marina extended with six small hotel flats designed to accommodate the needs of the many families looking to explore the area and visit the nearby Djursland Sommerland. “Access

to our pool and wellness area is included in the stay and also includes a playroom for children. This means that in the school holidays we’re a very popular family destination; during the rest of the year, we have more couples coming, to enjoy each other and the area,” explains Hansen. “The couples come for the nature and peace; we’re situated next to five kilometres of beach, forests and long walking and mountain biking tracks, so there’s something for everyone.”

The hotel also offers flexible and spacious meeting facilities with sea views. Indeed, whether you are a family, couple or business looking for a base for your next getaway, Hotel Marina will welcome you with a smile,” says Hansen. “One of the things we get the most positive feedback on is our service; people are always met with a smile and a cando attitude.”

Hotel Marina is located in Grenå, just under an hour’s drive from Århus. Hotel Marina has 85 rooms. The hotel also includes a restaurant. The hotel’s meeting rooms can accommodate up to 400 guests. Access to the wellness area is free for guests; individual spa treatments can be booked separately.

Web: www.hotel-marina.dk

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 95

Scan Magazine | Hotel the Month | Norway

Lykkja Fjellgard is a place of history and tradition.

Hotel of the Month, Norway

Home is where the heart is

− visit the family-run farm and hotel in the Norwegian mountains Over the last ten years, three generations of the Haug family have relocated from the suburban town of Bærum outside Oslo, Norway, to the village of Skåbu, high up in the Norwegian mountains. There, they run a farm and a hotel with history, soul, and spectacular nature and surroundings. By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: Ansgar Valbø, www.ansgarvalbo.no

Located at 870 metres above sea level in the scenic mountains of Gudbrandsdalen, Skåbu is the highest village in Northern Europe. Surrounded by three nature reserves, breathtaking views and untouched wilderness, you can find Lykkja Fjellgard, a farm with a history dating back to the 1830s and with some houses that are even older. Since its humble beginnings, the farm has expanded, changed owners and been modernised, but has still managed to keep the soul and the charm of a typical mountain farm, with its 20 tra96 | Issue 116 | September 2018

ditional timber buildings circling a grassy yard. The Haug family runs the farm themselves, including a dog, a horse, and a heard of wild sheep and ram, the latter of which they sell the meat and skins of at the farm, and through outlets both in the local area and across Norway. In addition to this, the crafty family have recently opened a brand-new hotel nearby − Skåbu Fjellhotell. Using one of the historical houses in the centre of the village, and building on its history as a nat-

ural gathering point for the villagers, the building has been restored and now features 11 rooms and six apartments. The hotel puts a big emphasis on being a high-quality resort and aims to be a relaxing and cosy place that will feel like a home away from home for its visitors. It also boasts its own restaurant serving seasonal foods based on local produce and traditions. “Guests almost come into the kitchen to thank us for the meal, that’s how at home they feel at the hotel,” Jannicke Haug Doksæter says, making sure to point out that both guests and those only passing through are equally welcome to step inside for a meal. They also take bookings for weddings, company outings and parties, tailoring the stay to each individual booking.

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Norway

Adventures and experiences are waiting on the doorstep Visitors to the area also have a large range of activities they can choose between, should they want to venture outside the comfort of the hotel or do more than just relax and take in the scenery. The Haug family offers guided tours of their farm, and helps organise hikes and elk spotting in the surrounding area. “Skåbu is located right in the middle of the so-called elk-county, and every year, up to 700 elk walk past on their way from their winter pasture to their summer pasture and back again,” Haug Doksæter explains, a spectacular sight for tourists and locals alike. Skåbu has a long history of hunting and fishing; archaeological finds date elk hunting and human activity in the area as far back as 10,000 years ago, and the village is eager to keep the

tradition alive. So, should you want even more adventure and action, there are hunting and fishing outings in the autumn, randonee-skiing and dog sledding in the winter, and, during their gourmet trips, you can get a proper meal at the campfire after a long day of activities. With the whole local area contributing to activities and happenings, Skåbu has become a thriving place with a lot of heart and soul. There is the Peer Gynt outdoor play by Henrik Ibsen, which takes place every August; Gausdal Marathon, a giant dog-sledding event taking place in January; and Liv Lågå, an annual market and fair with food stalls and entertainment such as music and theatre. “It’s a very open and welcoming community,” Haug Doksæter says. “People appreciate visitors because there’s not a lot of us up here.”

Each December, there is a Christmas market in the village and the hotel hosts a Christmas dinner with local traditional meals. Should you want to take it even further and experience a proper Norwegian Christmas, the hotel stays open for guests all through the holidays. And with a white Christmas being the norm rather than an exception, you can expect torch-lit sleigh rides with reindeer skins and mulled wine keeping you warm and snuggly while enjoying the snowcovered surroundings and the starry nights. If you are lucky, you might even get to see the northern lights!

Web: www.skabufjellhotell.no and www.lykkjafjellgard.no Facebook: skabufjellhotell and lykkjafjellgard

Peer Gynt. Photo: Bård Gundersen

Jannicke Haug Doksæter with goat.

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Scan Magazine | Hotel the Month | Faroe Islands

Hotel of the Month, Faroe Islands

A Faroe-tale stay in one of the world’s smallest capitals More than 300 kilometres from the nearest land, between Iceland and Norway, the 18 rocky Faroe Islands defiantly jut out of the North Sea. Despite their desolate North Atlantic location, they have supported a hardy, creative and welcoming population for the past millennium. With its 20,000 inhabitants, Tórshavn is home to almost half the Faroese population and a millennium of rich, distinctive history. At the heart of the tiny capital, Hotel Hafnia ensures that you have ideal conditions from which to explore both Tórshavn and the rest of the beautiful, dramatic Faroe Islands. By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Hotel Hafnia

In 2007, a National Geographic survey of more than 500 sustainable tourism experts placed the Faroe Islands first out of 111 island destinations for being “authentic, unspoilt and likely to remain so”. Keen to share their gorgeous home with the world, normal Faroese citizens have worked hard to quite literally put the nation on the map and, in 2016, they 98 | Issue 116 | September 2018

began an amazing campaign: strapping cameras unto far-wandering sheep, they created Sheep View in an effort to entice Google Street View to record the splendour of their country (it worked). The government too has made sustainable tourism a priority, improving services, connections and facilities, but only in

ways which do not damage normal life on the islands. The Faroe Islands remains an authentic and unspoilt country, but it is highly modern too – and a much more comfortable, cheap and reachable destination than it was 20 years ago. Today, you can get there easily by air or by sea – the cruise ship Norröna is a popular way to experience both the Faroe Islands and their more tourist-laden northern neighbour, Iceland.

A place fit for the Gods Pætur Trónd Thomsen, general manager of Hotel Hafnia, recently returned to Tórshavn after years in Denmark and the UK. “It’s a great little city,” he says. “It’s got everything you expect of a capital – great shops and restaurants, but at the same

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Faroe Islands

time, everything is within walking distance. We’re surrounded by breath-taking nature on every side and we’ve got amazing historical sites like Tinganes on our doorstep.” Dating back to 825, Tinganes is the ancient location of the Faroese government (ting in ancient Norse), making it one of the eldest parliamentary locations in the world. Originally a neutral meeting place between disputing Viking clans, it gradually developed into a town and marketplace, and onwards into Tórshavn (‘Thor’s Harbour’). Situated metres from Tórshavn’s cathedral and a hammer’s throw from Tinganes and the harbour, Hotel Hafnia has been the home away from home for many of the Faroe Islands’ visitors since 1951. In 2015, the hotel underwent an extensive renovation and expansion to keep up with steadily rising tourist numbers. “We’ve now got 78 rooms of varying shapes and sizes,” Thomsen says. “We’ve sought to retain the building’s charms and quirks, and we’ve added little Faroese touches in the decoration. I think we’ve been quite successful; it looks and feels really lovely and inviting. And we’re expanding even further – we’ll have a second hotel with 130 rooms available by 2020.”

This year, the hotel added three little cottages to its line-up. The wooden cottages are built in classic Faroese fashion and measure one-and-a-half floors each. With their black exteriors and thatched roofs, they blend right in with the surrounding century-old houses, but come complete with modern amenities including a kitchenette and high-speed Wi-Fi. All guests staying at the hotel or in the cottages have access to the massive new Burn Fitness gym, which also includes a spa and sauna, and each room comes with complimentary breakfast at Restaurant Hafnia.

A taste of the Faroe Islands Restaurant Hafnia’s New Nordic-inspired breakfast and lunch buffets are homemade and delicious, serving up all the usual suspects garnished with Faroese additions such as berry shots and pickled herring (not necessarily to be enjoyed simultaneously). “Our piece de resistance, however, is our summer Tuesday seafood buffet, which shows off the best of Faroese cuisine with freshly caught fish and shellfish,” Thomsen reveals. “It’s what the Faroe Islands are famous for after all.” This is served in Panorama, the hotel’s top floor, which has been re-

dressed in floor-to-ceiling windows to exploit the 360-degree views of Tórshavn that diners and visitors can feast upon. As if the people at Hotel Hafnia did not have enough on their plates, they also manage the more informal Katrina Christiansen restaurant, which combines Faroese food with the Spanish tapas tradition in a cosy and beautifully preserved 18th-century wooden house that was once the home of author William Heinesen. Back at the hotel, Panorama also doubles as a fourstar, fully-equipped modern conference centre, with function rooms seating up to 100 people. Next to the lobby, Café Kaspar also serves more casual dishes 24-7, including pre-prepared packed lunches. “We know most tourists want to explore more than just the fabulous hotel facilities,” Thomsen concludes. “We just want to make it as easy and comfortable as possible for them to go out and explore our beautiful islands.”

Web: www.hafnia.fo E-mail: booking@hafnia.fo Facebook: hotelhafnia Instagram: @hotelhafnia

Photo: Faroe Photo

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Sweden

Restaurant of the Month, Sweden

Prized burgers and craft beer Stockholm’s hottest venue for burger and craft beer lovers is no doubt Barrels Burgers & Beer. Its monthly treats created by some of the world’s best chefs are nothing short of amazing, and as true aficionados, the owners are also regularly arranging festivals dedicated to tasty patties and great brews. By Malin Norman | Photos: Barrels Burgers & Beer

Co-founder Sharam Zeraaktar explains the concept: “We have a passion for hamburgers and beer, and really appreciated the growing trend with tasty burgers. But we found that the food scene in Stockholm was lacking something, so we decided to open our own burger and beer place. What we do is not rocket science, we use great ingredients and combine flavours.” The team uses only 100 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Swedish meat and organic products such as cheddar from Väddö Gårdsmejeri, and customers appreciate the high quality and clean flavours. The first Barrels Burgers & Beer venue opened in March 2015 in the heart of Gamla Stan, and became a big hit straight away. Positive reviews flooded in and it was even named Best Budget

Restaurant and Opening of the Year in the annual competition by Allt Om Stockholm (All About Stockholm). In June 2017, the second venue opened in the city centre and, as all good things come in threes, the team has just opened a third restaurant on Södermalm.

Monthly burger treats Its success has also travelled across the Swedish borders, and Barrels represented Sweden at Mr Hyde National Burger Day in London last year. This is an annual event with a number of British and international restaurants competing for the title of best burger. “The team from National Burger Day came to Stockholm

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Sweden

last summer to test the burger scene here, and they later invited us over to London to represent Stockholm and Sweden,” explains Zeraaktar. At Barrels, customers can choose from a number of tasty burgers, including the monthly burger, where some of the best chefs in the world add their own take on what is a great burger. For instance, Mathias Dahlgren created Rutabaga Burger, a vegan burger with black beans, smoked pepper, avocado, jalapeno, onion, coriander and lime. And Daniel Crespi came up with Bödeln från Salamanca (the executioner from Salamanca), with manchego cheese and serrano ham, pickled red onion, cheddar and romesco sauce.

Celebrating patties and beer Next door to Barrels is Tritonia Ölverkstad, a small bar devoted to craft beer

from micro and nano breweries in Sweden and abroad. In celebration of great beer, Barrels hosts Stockholm Beer Fest every year in August. The two-day festival is all about beer from some of the world’s best breweries, tasty burgers too, of course, plus live music and, above all, a great vibe. This year’s festival was organised in collaboration with breweries Omnipollo, Stigbergets Bryggeri, Kungsbryggeriet, Mikkeller, Dugges Bryggeri and Pilsner Urquell. Barrels also organises Stockholm Burger Fest, Sweden’s first dedicated burger festival. Run for the second time this year, it is certainly a tradition that looks like it is here to stay. During the two-day feast at the end of May, visitors have had the opportunity to try ice-cream burgers, vegan burgers, plus extra-special burgers, with dry-aged beef and secret sauces. And there are loads of other treats

on offer too, such as typical Swedish fika and specially brewed beer. This year, the burger fest attracted a whopping 6,000 visitors. And we already cannot wait for next year’s tasty celebrations of patties and beer! Barrels Burgers & Beer Gamla Stan Stora Nygatan 20 111 27 Stockholm Barrels Burgers & Beer City Smålandsgatan 22 111 46 Stockholm Barrels Burgers & Beer Söder Bysistorget 4 118 21 Stockholm

Web: www.barrels.se Facebook: Barrels.se Instagram: @barrels.se

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway

Monsun offers fresh and healthy ingredients, and clean and complex flavours.

Restaurant of the Month, Norway

Asian fusion with a twist Monsun Restaurant is the innovative Asian-fusion kitchen serving Oslo citizens steaming hot ramen, fresh and healthy vegan dishes and the intriguingly named Forbidden Sushi. With inspiration from several corners of Asia and a penchant for new flavours, founder and CEO Jana Le brings the world a little bit closer to the Norwegian capital. By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: jonmariusnilsson.no

With a two-part restaurant in the buzzing neighbourhood of Grünerløkka in Oslo, Monsun is rapidly becoming a go-to place for Norwegians with an appetite for Asian flavours and healthy foods. The more traditional part of the restaurant, Monsun Noodlebar, serves up quality meals based on fresh produce and tradition, albeit with a modern twist, whereas newcomer Streetcorner, has more of a street food approach to their menu. There, you will be able to try Taiwanese Bao with bulgogi and kimchi, Vietnamese pho, and their immensely popular rice bowls. 102 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Monsun first opened its doors in 2010, and today, eight years later, they have got 28 employees and even more expansions on the horizon. With a dedicated crew of people hailing from Slovakia, the Philippines, Thailand, Japan and Vietnam, Monsun has grown into quite an institution in the city.

A playful approach to food Originally intended as a noodle bar, Monsun’s menus have grown to include styles, directions and types of food from several Asian countries. Le says that

travelling the world is what inspires her the most, citing cities like Hong Kong as places from which to pick up new ideas. She feels that trying new approaches to food, playing with concepts and thinking outside the box is a fundamental part of the Monsun personality. “It’s all about an interest in and passion for food,” she states, “I love working with food, I love to travel and be inspired by people I meet out there in the world, and to bring those ideas and flavours back to Norway and develop my own recipes.” This is why, on an otherwise traditional menu, you can find items like Lady Dragon Roll, Snow White Roll and Darth Vader Roll. Forbidden Sushi is another unfamiliar take on a normally familiar food item. Made with unrefined black rice, Forbidden Sushi is a cleaner,

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway

healthier alternative to the standard sushi, chock-full of minerals, antioxidants and vitamins, originally reserved for the emperor alone − hence the term forbidden. Based on the clean eating concept, Forbidden Sushi is also free of sugar and other additives, as it is all rice, fresh fish and fruit. “We want our menus to be varied,” Le says. “You’ll find both fresh and fried foods, but as a person who loves working out, I know how important eating healthy food is. So we definitely like having those options as well. We’ve got the traditional sushi with lots of ingredients going into the rice, but also the black rice which is completely pure and clean. Monsun is also part of the growing number of restaurants offering an all-vegan menu. “It is immensely popular,” Le smiles. “More and more people are choosing to eat vegan.”

Keeping up to date on food trends Vegan food may well be a trend that is here to stay, but Le keeps an eye on other movements in the food industry as well, whether they are new and potentially long-lasting, or fun little fads that spice up people’s dinner tables and Instagram feeds. A couple of years ago, Monsun made headlines when they served socalled sushi-doughnuts as a pop-up concept: sushi made in the shape of doughnuts, where the rice served as the bun. Bao is another trend they have picked up, and during these past summer months, Vietnamese noodle salads and summer rolls seem to have been the food of choice for hip Norwegians. But despite the food being on trend, Le says that Monsun is a laid-back place for anyone who wants to stop by. It serves as a place both to return to every day for a low-key meal, or at which to book bigger

events or birthday parties. The spaces and menus cater to everybody, regardless of background, age or diet. With some of Oslo’s most innovative menus, visually stunning platters, the promise of fresh, healthy ingredients and complex and clean flavours, Monsun is a force to be reckoned with on the Oslo food map. Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 3pm - 10pm, Friday and Saturday 1pm - 11pm, and Sunday 1pm - 10pm Phone number: +47 4677 0040 Table reservation: reservation@ monsun-noodlebar.no

Web: www.monsunrestaurant.no Instagram: @monsunrestaurant

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Faroe Islands

Restaurant of the Month, Faroe Islands

History and gourmet food in the Faroese capital Futastova, Tórshavn’s old bailiff’s house, has been at the epicentre of Faroese history for centuries. Today, transformed into a gourmet restaurant with local chef Teitur Christensen in the kitchen, the picturesque turf-covered building welcomes guests into its historic interior with an enchanting mix of Faroese ingredients and classic French cuisine. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Beinta á Torkilsheyggi

For more than three centuries, Fútastova has played a central role in Faroese history. Located in the historic centre of Tórshavn, the Faroe Islands’ quaint capital, the traditional black-timbered building has been the home of many prominent historical figures. Originally built as the residence for the Danish King’s representative in the Faroe Islands, the building has since served as a long list 104 | Issue 116 | September 2018

of functions including school, embassy and church. Two years ago, Fútastova restaurant opened up in the building’s historically preserved but newly renovated interiors. “Entering into this old house and getting to sit down and dine in its historic interiors is definitely a big part of the experience,” says chef Christensen. “Combined with the special atmosphere, our guests get what I would call a classic,

not quite French but French with a modern twist, cuisine.” Since opening up in 2016, Fútastova has quickly become a popular choice for both tourists and locals enjoying the combination of historic settings, beautiful interiors and gourmet food.

From Copenhagen to Tórshavn 32-year-old Christensen, a native Faroese, left his home left his home at 19 to refine his professional skills and gather experience in the food mecca that is Denmark’s capital. In Copenhagen, he worked in a number of restaurants and, in partnership with two others, started up Nose2tail, a bistro focused on letting no part from

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Faroe Islands

an animal go to waste. Last year, he returned to the Faroe Islands, and when the position as head chef at Fútastova opened up, he did not hesitate. “I built up a lot of valuable experience working in different restaurants in Copenhagen and opening my own place,” he explains. “But when I had my second child, it seemed like the time to go home − to be close to my family and in a more peaceful and relaxed environment. To me, Fútastova seemed like the only place in the Faroe Islands that I could really continue my way of cooking, and, today, I have no doubt I ended up in the right place.”

Faroese produce and history The menu at Fútastova offers a set threecourse menu, as well as a tasting menu with specialties from local purveyors.

Classic international dishes such as foie gras and oysters make the restaurant popular not just with visitors to the island nation, but also with locals out for a special treat. “The international classics on our menu are not something you will find in a lot of places in Tórshavn, and because of that, we have a lot of locals who come to visit us because they want to try something new,” explains Christensen. “But we also use all the Faroese produce we can. That means that we often have a lot of fish on the menu, but we also have a lot of distinct Faroese products, which we use in classic dishes where we replace the traditional ingredient with a Faroese one. For example, we have a lot of migratory birds here which we use instead of importing poultry from, for instance, France.”

Indeed, the historic atmosphere, classic cuisine and Faroese specialities offer plenty of good reasons to stop by Fútastova when in Tórshavn. Name: Fútastova is Faroese for “bailiff’s house”. Location: Fútastova is located in the historic centre of Tórshavn, right next to the Faroese parliament and a two minutes’ walk from Tórshavn cathedral. Menu: The restaurant serves a threecourse menu at 495DKK (around 60 GBP) and a seven-course tasting menu at 750DKK (1,200DKK with wine menu). The restaurant seats 50 people.

Web: www.futastova.fo

Local gourmet chef Teitur Christensen worked in Copenhagen for many years before returning to Tórshavn and taking over the position as head chef at Futastova.

Located in Tórshavn’s old bailiff’s house, Fútastova welcomes guests with a raw but cosy Nordic interior.

Guests at Fútastova can enjoy a beautiful combination of Faroese ingredients and classic French cuisine.

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Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Finland

Experience of the Month, Finland

Experience Santa’s magic, all year round Santa Claus Holiday Village offers everything you could want from a dream holiday: high-quality accommodation, a wide range of activities, great food and drinks, shopping – and the chance to meet Santa Claus! The cottages at the holiday village are designed for families with children and active adult vacationers alike, and there is plenty of Christmas magic to go around − whatever the time of year. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Santa Claus Holiday Village

Located eight kilometres from the centre of Rovaniemi, Finland, Santa Claus Holiday village is an ideal destination for families and individuals looking for a unique holiday. Rovaniemi airport is only a few minutes’ drive away, and the holiday resort offers free airport transfers for all customers. The origins of the company date back to 1969, when the current managing director, Inga Pokka-Jääskö’s parents, founded the company. Santa Claus Holiday Village opened its doors in 1994 and is still 106 | Issue 116 | September 2018

run as a family enterprise by Inga and her husband and the holiday village’s general manager, Marko Jääskö. In addition to the holiday village, the company also runs a restaurant and coffee bar, as well as the Christmas House souvenir shop. “Santa Claus Holiday Village is aimed at anyone and everyone interested in Lapland’s nature, and the spirit of Christmas. From seniors to babies, there is something here for everyone. We have taken the needs of families travelling with children into account,

and paid special attention to them in the accommodation and the services we offer, as well as making sure the village’s infrastructure is adapted accordingly, making it easy for families to move around,” says Jääskö.

High-quality accommodation All of the heated cabins at the Holiday Village have private saunas, a kitchenette and a terrace, and they are all equipped with private bathrooms and televisions. “All our apartments have been built in the 2010s, which means they are exceptional in terms of quality and atmosphere. The needs of families with children have been taken into account very well, as the comfort of families is a matter we hold close to our hearts,” Jääskö says. There are three accommodation packages available: standard, classic, or ‘Santa Claus’, and

Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Finland

in November 2018, 24 additional suite rooms will open, taking the grand total to 144 rooms.

From sledging to husky safaris and elf school For those looking for additional activities, everything from reindeer, husky and snow mobile safaris to skiing and hiking is available. There are also boats, bicycles and fishing equipment available for rent on site. In addition to all of this, from December to January each year, the Santa Claus Holiday Village’s Gingerbread Club offers programmes for children; from arts and crafts to elf school, baking, sledging and skiing trips. “We want to create a magical experience for everyone, but especially for children. There are sledges available at the reception, and our guests can use them free of charge and

enjoy the thrill of sledging down from the nearby hills. The biggest draw for most visitors is that guests can meet Santa Claus himself, every day of the year. “He can also be invited to guests’ cabins to deliver gifts personally, which is included in our Santa Claus accommodation package without any additional charge,” Jääskö states.

Serving traditional food from Lapland and elsewhere The newly-opened Three Elves restaurant serves specialities from Lapland, as well as traditional Finnish and wellknown international dishes. The restaurant’s à la carte menu offers diners meals made from seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, wherever possible. The holiday village’s Christmas House restaurant also serves diners a wide range of family-friendly foods, including the

popular lunch buffet, which is available every day of the year. “Our aim is to cook good-quality, tasty food made from the best ingredients possible. We use domestic meat and fish, as well as seasonal vegetables and roots from local producers. The long summer nights mean that everything grown in the soil is especially flavoursome. We also serve beers from a local brewery,” Jääskö explains. “The feedback from our guests has been overwhelmingly positive, which is evident from our social media and online reviews, and it’s clear that we are onto something special. Catering to families and individuals alike, there is a whole lot of Christmas spirit and Santa’s magic for everyone to explore,” Jääskö concludes.

Web: www.santaclausholidayvillage.fi

All of the heated cabins have private saunas, a kitchenette and a terrace, and they are all equipped with private bathrooms and televisions.

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Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Attraction of the Month, Norway

Experience Arctic wildlife up-close and at its best If you are looking for genuine Arctic wildlife adventures like whale watching, snorkelling with orcas and puffins, or photographing the spectacular northern lights, then Sea Safari Andenes is the ideal place to come to. Surrounded by stunning coastal and Norwegian fjord landscape, you are invited to spend an unforgettable time and experience Arctic wildlife up-close and at its most stunning.

at their own level,” Bril explains, while adding: “With these kinds of boats, less than five per cent of people get seasick. They reduce the risk greatly compared to bigger whale watching vessels.”

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Marten Bril, Sea Safari Andenes

Something for everyone

At Sea Safari Andenes, you can watch whales, orcas, sea eagles and puffins from aboard safe and modern rigidinflatable boats. If you are lucky, you will also see other creatures, such as coastal seals, harbour porpoises and dolphins leaping in front of you. “We can’t promise that you will see a specific species since this is the wild. We can, however, guarantee one thing: you will never forget this close encounter with nature and the ocean as long as you live,” says 108 | Issue 116 | September 2018

owner and general manager Marten Bril. The Dutch wildlife and photography enthusiast has combined his passion with two Norwegian co-owners to provide a unique sea safari experience. Sea Safari Andenes uses three RIB boats, each with a capacity of 12 people, on their adventures. “In an RIB boat you are closer to the surface and closer to the whales, which provides a unique view of these huge, impressive animals

The ocean outside Andenes is very deep and productive, which attracts many different species of whales and fish. Not only can you join in on whale watching and observe these impressive animals at close range all year long here, but there are plenty of other exciting activities during the different seasons. “We have something for everyone who loves the arctic wildlife. Join our bird safari trips to watch white tailed eagles, gannets and puffins, among others. If we

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

are lucky, we might also encounter harbour seals, harbour porpoises, otters or minks,” Bril says. During these bird safari trips, the boats stop by Bleiksøy, one of the most famous bird colonies in Norway with about 25,000 pairs of nesting puffins, auks and guillemots, before heading to Forøy. During the winter months, a popular activity is to go snorkelling with the whales, while in the summertime, you can snorkel with the puffins. To watch these fascinating animals at close range under water is a once in a lifetime experience.

Learn how to capture the northern lights Because of its location under the Auroral Oval, Andøy Island has a greater Auroral activity than most other places in the northern hemisphere. Here, at 69° north you have a great chance of experiencing the amazing northern lights after a day out on the sea with the whales. Away from city lights and mass tourism, you can see the stunning aurora borealis from the end of August until the beginning of April.

At the evening photography workshop, it is possible to learn more about this natural phenomena. Bril will help with the best camera settings to capture the northern lights before you can put your new knowledge into practice.

Positive sea experiences With tourists coming from all over the world, Bril recognises a demand for unique outdoor ventures. “People are starting to notice how incredible this area is for experiencing whales the whole year. Of course it can be weather dependent in certain periods, but we are proud to offer tailored activities and focus on giving people a positive sea experience,” he smiles. “This means we do not go out if the weather is rough or the waves are too high. For this reason, we highly recommend that visitors allow for some flexibility during their stay, by adding a few additional days to better avoid disappointment during such circumstances.” A new winter activity planned for this year is a project in combination with a large boat further up north. “It will be a

six-day trip to see the orcas and to follow them while they are slowly heading down to our area,” Bril concludes. What kind of whales do you see in summer? In summer, you can observe sperm whales, which is the largest toothed whale in the world. There is also a chance to see pilot whales playing around the boat and chasing the waves, and sometimes, if you are lucky, you can see other kinds of whales and dolphins. What kind of whales do you see in winter? You can mainly see orcas, humpbacks and fin whales feeding on the herring in winter. They come around the beginning of January and by mid-February they leave, the orcas come back the first weeks of April. There are sperm whales here the whole year round.

Web: www.seasafariandenes.no Facebook: Sea-Safari-Andenes Instagram: @sea_safari_andenes

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 109

Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Finland

Fuzhou Strait Culture and Art Centre.

Architect of the Month, Finland

Creating uplifting experiences PES-Architects is one of the leading architectural design firms in Finland. Their innovative, sustainable and ambitious projects in Finland and China include transport, culture and commercial buildings. From airport terminals to opera houses and skyscrapers, the firm’s determination continually takes them to new heights.

have extended our operations there significantly, due to the endless potential, especially for cultural and commercial buildings,” Silvennoinen says.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: PES-Architects

In addition to these, the firm’s notable building designs in China include the sculptural Icon YunDuan tower in Chengdu, the ambitious Wuxi Grand Theatre, and the Fuzhou Strait Culture and Art Centre, located in Mawei New Town, by the Minjiang River. The building, designed by professor Pekka Salminen, founder of PES-Architects, is shaped in the form of the petals of a jasmine blossom, the city flower of Fuzhou, and includes an opera house, concert hall, multi-functional theatre, art exhibition hall, as well as a cinema centre. “It connects cities and communities along and over the Taiwan Strait. It also connects the Fuzhou New City Development and its waterways to the

Founded in 1968, PES-Architects’ continued success for the past 50 years is evident. This spring, the company held an exhibition at the Museum of Finnish Architecture to mark the occasion. Their repertoire is extensive: from complex public buildings such as theatres, airport and railway terminals to sport facilities, retail developments and office buildings. In addition to all of this, the company also specialises in interior design and urban planning, as well as refurbishment projects. Operating mainly in Finland and China, the company has also carried out pro110 | Issue 116 | September 2018

jects in the Gulf region, Germany and in Russia. “Part of our strength lies in our diverse and international design team of 70 employees, representing over ten different nationalities,” says Tuomas Silvennoinen, partner and chief architect at PES-Architects.

Endless potential and ambitious projects One of PES-Architects’ specialities is designing cultural buildings, including a number of theatres and opera houses in China. “We’ve been working in China since 2003, and opened our Shanghai office in 2010. In the last 15 years, we

Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Finland

Minjiang River and the natural environment. And, finally, it connects people to culture. People are always the focal point in everything we do,” Silvennoinen states. The culture centre will open its doors in October 2018.

Adding an emotional layer As well as cultural and commercial buildings, PES-Architects specialise in transport buildings, such as airport and railway terminals. Their most high-profile transport project is the Helsinki-Vantaa airport, where the firm has been responsible for a significant amount of the construction, as well as the design for over 25 years. HelsinkiVantaa airport has consistently been ranked among the world’s best airports, and recently, PES-Architects firm has been working on the airport’s terminal expansion, set to be completed in 2020. “We must be able to cater to the first-time visitor, as well as the seasoned traveller. First and foremost, the space must serve its users well. We pride ourselves on of-

fering functional, durable designs, that also provide a positive experience for the people that these designs are there to serve. Our buildings need to make people feel excited, and it is our duty to make their experience uplifting and inspiring; that is the true purpose of architecture. Mere rationality is not enough: you need to add an emotional layer to all architecture too – a form of rational poetry at its best,” Silvennoinen explains. Other recent transport designs include the new passenger terminal in Helsinki’s West Harbour, completed in February 2017. “The main aim was to provide optimised conditions for the ferry traffic between Helsinki and Tallinn, ensuring smooth, comfortable and fast traffic operations. Despite the focus on efficiency, the design is also focused around providing a high standard of quality and comfort. The public spaces are bright, comfortable and feel safe. The surface materials were chosen for wear-resistance so the building will retain its attractiveness throughout its life cycle,” Silvennoinen says. The ter-

minal has received several awards both in Finland and abroad, including a prize for steel construction of the year in Finland in 2017. At the heart of PES-Architect’s ethos are sustainable and durable designs. “We always aim to focus on ensuring the highest ecological, economical and architectural quality is maintained throughout our design solutions. We are constantly expanding our cooperative network of specialists in various sustainability and energy-saving engineering fields. There is an increasing demand for ecological solutions in consumer goods, and we believe the same should apply to architecture. We consider each project individually, to suit each client’s specific needs. Our multi-skilled team has a strong vision and endless talent, and we are able to provide cross-disciplinary and creative solutions to our clients,” Silvennoinen concludes. Web: www.pesark.com

Helsinki Airport, non-Schengen expansion.

West Terminal, Helsinki. Photo: Marc Goodwin

Icon YunDuan tower, in Chengdu. Photo: Marc Goodwin

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 111

Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Norway

House.

City.

Artist of the Month, Norway

Simplified and playful art Norwegian artist Barbro Maria Tiller takes inspiration from her surroundings to create simplified and playful art that invites the observer to add their own interpretation. As a part of the local art scene in Trondheim, she believes that the thriving community at Lademoen Kunstverksteder plays a big part in her creative growth. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Barbro Maria Tiller

objects and experiences around her. “The simple look invites the viewer to add their own interpretation of my pictures, I want people to associate my art with their own lives,” she says. In her early years, Tiller mainly worked with black and white charcoal drawing. “I always saw the colours, even though they were not there. Today my work is dominated by earthy and muted shades, where contrasts play a big part,” the artist explains.

Art has always been a big part of Tiller’s life, even from a young age. “Both my parents were artists, so you can say art is a part of my heritage,” she smiles. With a background at the Trondheim Academy of Fine Art, Tiller now considers herself a multidisciplinary artist. “My work consists of everything from painting, graphics, drawing, collages, installation and embroidery, to collections. I like to work with my hands and to have the control of the artwork, and do not want to restrict myself to one thing.”

Creative community

With a playful and almost naive expression, Tiller has always focused on a minimalist style and found inspiration from

Tiller has a studio at Lademoen Kunstnerverksteder (LKV), a historic creative centre housed in a former school building from 1906, near the centre of

112 | Issue 116 | September 2018

Trondheim. It consists of 40 studios for professional artists, as well as workshops and courses. LKV also has an international trans-disciplinary artist residency programme to facilitate international mobility and collaboration opportunities with the local art scene. “LKV is such a great addition to Trondheim city. As artists, we often stand alone and work all day. But here, we can meet colleagues and be inspired by each other, which further stimulates creativity,” Tiller says. This open and communal environment provides the artists with space to explore and develop their creativity, while also giving them access to their own artist-run space, Babel, for collaborative and interdisciplinary art events, exhibitions and projects.

Dream Pillows “For Christmas and birthdays during my childhood, I received pillowcases

Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Norway

as gifts from my grandmother. She had sewn all of these by hand with cutwork embroidery and a B, the first letter of my name.” Later in life, Tiller wanted to do something special with these pillowcases to remember her grandmother by, so she decided to use them in her own creative way. “On these pillows, I have now embroidered dreams I remember from my own childhood, and many of these dreams are referring to nightmares and things that have stuck in my mind,” she says. Tiller has been working on this project for about four years. The work consists of ten pillows, mounted hanging from the ceiling.

Persistent Flora Another interesting project she has in her portfolio is Persistent Flora, something that originated from Tiller’s daily walking route to her studio along a residential street in central Trondheim. “Eventually, I was fascinated by what grows in such a street, in spite of the fact that both residents and the people of the city fight to keep the weeds away. This gave me the idea of trying to collect, categorise and record which plants and how many plant species I could find in this inhospitable environment,” she explains, while adding: “I ended up with 91 different plants. All of these have been pressed and mounted on paper, where I have also noted the location and house number along with differ-

ent information about the plants.” This herbarium has become a wall installation and was first shown as a part of the autumn exhibition at Statens Kunstutstilling in 2012, as well as a variety of other exhibitions in Norway. Tiller has also published a book about the project. See and purchase Barbro Maria Tiller’s artwork: - In her atelier at Lademoen Kunstverksteder by appointment. Tel. +47 920 87 943 - Upcoming exhibition at Leidanggalleriet in Stiklestad, Norway (17 November 2018 - 27 January 2019).

Web: www.barbromariatiller.no

From her exhibition Dream Pillows at Buskerud Art Center, Drammen 2016.

Light-footed.

Left: Floor installation made from gloves Tiller has found or picked up from the street over three years and sewn together. Right: Persistent Flora project.

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 113

Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Finland

A cradle of fine sand, 2012, inspired by a poem by Finnish author Aleksis Kivi.

Shared joy, 2017.

Tygerwoods, 2017.

Sinikka Salmi.

Artist of the Month, Finland

Inspired by life Sinikka Salmi is a Finnish artist whose paintings burst with intense colour. Driven by an innate need to express herself, she draws inspiration from everyday experiences and her own past.

she experiences in life, only to later appear on the canvas. Life in itself becomes the subject matter.

By Hanna Heiskanen | Photos: Sinikka Salmi

Art is sometimes seen as difficult, but Salmi argues that we should not overcomplicate it. “I recently made painting onerous for myself, before it hit me how much of it is subconscious. You have to remove yourself from the equation in order for the painting to materialise.” From the viewer’s point of view, however, it is simply about their own personal interpretation and reaction to the piece. “Art doesn’t become art until others experience it,” Salmi concludes. “I want mine to be as close to other people as possible.”

For Turku-based artist Sinikka Salmi, it did not all start with paint. “I was actually supposed to study literature,” she reminisces. “But visual art quickly took over words. I enjoy the directness of expression that painting gives me, from my head and onto the canvas. Plus, I have too many things to say that can’t be expressed in words!” Even today however, literature does continue to be a lasting source of inspiration for Salmi. She is particularly drawn to the works of Marcel Proust and Virginia Woolf, as well as poetry. “Sometimes I see a pair of words that come across to me as a painting I simply must create,” she explains. Classical music is equally close to her heart, and her husband often plays the cello while she works. And, of course, colour is always very important for a painter. Salmi talks about the impact 114 | Issue 116 | September 2018

that our personal life experiences have on the way we perceive the same colours and their temperature. Her own childhood memories are full of colour, including a particularly vibrant shade of turquoise that she later spent three months trying to mix. “I still don’t think I got it quite right.” Salmi chiefly works with oil, although she is also interested in acrylic and, most recently, egg tempera as a non-toxic medium. “Oil is fantastic for reproducing strong colour,” she says. Some of her paintings depict faces, which she sees as mysterious and hard to pin down. If she experiences a break in creating, Salmi often looks to other artists’ work for stimulation – before soon realising that the painting she is searching for does not exist yet, and that it is up to her to make it happen. She describes her brain as the kind that stores and processes everything

You can purchase Sinikka Salmi’s paintings from the Taiteen verkkokauppa online shop at www.taiko.fi, or borrow them from Turun taidelainaamo, at www.turuntaidelainaamo.fi

Web: www.sinikkasalmi.fi

Scan Magazine | Humour | Columns

IS IT JUST ME…

By Mette Lisby

… who has been wondering whether Airbnb is all it’s made out to be? My husband and I travel a lot for work, so for the past few years, we have Airbnb’d our way around the world. Excited at first: no more impersonal hotel rooms. We would be living in other people’s homes! How charming! Eight out of ten times though, we have arrived to a messy home, clean but with stuff everywhere. There is a difference between two fancy magazines casually spread out on a coffee table and a whirlwind of books, papers and weeklies scattered around on every open surface. Decoration and mess are two very different things. Cupboards in the bathroom have no room for your stuff, because they are filled to the brim already with other people’s stuff - the charm of living in other people’s home! Recently, we were even welcomed into the home by the owner himself. He was super nice, showed us around the flat, which was surprisingly un-messy and really cosy too, with lots of plants and flowers. And he had a

couple of goldfish! Kind of sweet, right? But he was worried about who was going to look after them while he was away. You see where this is going? To cut a long story short, we ended up responsible for watering at least 18 pots and plants plus feeding and changing the water of two goldfish. We are nice people, what where we going to say? Who wants to be the d*** who refuses to look after a goldfish? What possible excuse could there be? Then, as a side note, he explained that he and his girlfriend had not had time to clear out any shelves in their wardrobe, so if we did not mind just keeping our clothes in our suitcases? And also, the floors were new, so if we did not mind taking our shoes off before entering the apartment? And who wants to be the d*** that ruins other people’s floors? So we spent the week sneaking around in socks, afraid of making marks on the floor, particularly careful when watering

Making friends Working from home can be a bit lonely, especially if, like me, you have moved to a city where you don’t know anyone. Deciding to be more proactive about my social life, I recently attempted to join a local friends group. This, I imagined, would be a good, easy way to meet new people. The Brits are, after all, a very sociable, easy-going bunch. I pictured turning up to a pub, to find a group of strangers crowding around a table, perhaps mildly awkward at first, resorting to British classics such as exchanging condemnations about the weather/public transport/local B-roads. Once common ground had been established, however, I was confident that I’d find myself surrounded by some highly socially-skilled individuals. I completed the online form, added a picture and a blurb about my interests, and sent it off for approval. As I waited for a response,

the plants and changing the water of the goldfish (twice a week, in case you wondered). It felt like we were house sitters, even though we had paid plenty to live there. That is another thing: the fact that you know that your eight-day stay is paying comfortably for at least two months’ rent. So, we are back at hotels now. No plants. No goldfish. I wear my shoes where I want to. Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish version of Have I Got News For You and Room 101.

By Maria Smedstad

say when profoundly disappointed – was not what I had in mind. It did not feel sociable and easy-going. In fact, it reminded me of something else entirely: the long email with the sober bullet points, the humourless telling me off, the dogged sticking to the rules. Could it be…? Astonished, I began typing a reply. ‘I don’t suppose…’ I paused, contemplating the likelihood. ‘…there is any chance that you are Swedish…?’

I felt nervous. What would the local scene make of my attempt to reach out? Not very much, as it turned out. A couple of days later I received a reply in the shape of a small essay, explaining how my chosen profile picture did not comply with the rules. It went on to say that once I had corrected my mistake, I was welcome to resubmit my application for friendship. I was stunned. This – as the Brits

Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. Maria writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 115

Scan Magazine | Culture | Music

Scandinavian music Perhaps it is indicative of a wider trend flaring up in pop music, or maybe it is just me gravitating towards a certain genre in an effort to make the summer last a little longer, but in September, I am listening to (and loving) a lot of sun-soaked sounds emanating out of Scandinavia. Ina Wroldsen is the Norwegian songwriter behind all of your favourite number one hits by the likes of Clean Bandit, Calvin Harris and Jess Glynne. And she is a recording artist in her own right too. Her latest single is Favela, a collaboration with Brazilian producer Alok. And while Rockabye – the huge hit she wrote for Clean Bandit, Anne-Marie and Sean Paul – was her tribute to single mothers everywhere, she is heralding Favela as her shout-out to “the incredible women of Brazil”. And naturally, she has complemented those lyrics with some warming Brazilian beats. La Mesa is the brand new single from Swedish artist Omar Rudberg. The Venezuelan-born, former member of the

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huge Swedish boyband FO&O, has released a deliriously catchy reggaeton number, performed in both Spanish and Swedish. Though regardless of your grip on either of those two languages, ‘DespaSweto’, if you will, is an española ear-worm that is not going to be leaving your head without a fight. Felix Sandman, Omar’s former bandmate, launched his own solo career at this year’s Melodifestivalen in Sweden, where he finished runner-up with the unrequitedlove-ballad Every Single Day. That song went on to become a 17-million-streamed (and counting) hit, and he now follows it up with new single Imprint. He is still pining for a love lost, bless him, but he has ramped up the tempo a notch, resulting in a radio-friendly sing-along toe-tapper. It is already on two million streams, so that is plenty of toes being tapped. Back to those aforementioned sunsoaked sounds though. French duo Ofenbach have gone and recruited the

By Karl Batterbee

very artist that beat Felix Sandman to win Melodifestivalen – Sweden’s Benjamin Ingrosso – to co-write and sing their new single Paradise. And as you would hope and expect from a song with that title, it is a bit of a holiday in itself, taking a listen. The all-inclusive, sleep-all-day, out-allnight kind of holiday. Web: www.scandipop.co.uk

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Girls in Airports. Press photo

Scandinavian Culture Calendar – Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here! Sounds of Denmark (20-23 September) Over four days and nine concerts in September, Sounds Of Denmark will celebrate the vibrancy and eclectic nature of the contemporary Danish jazz scene. Running in its third year, the festival will showcase six world-class jazz groups from Denmark, including the award-winning Girls in Airports, hip-hop trio Athletic Progression, Kathrine Windfeld’s Big Band and Janne Mark. PizzaExpress

Jazz Club, 10 Dean St, Soho, London W1D 3RW, UK. www.pizzaexpresslive.com

Elmgreen & Dragset: This is How We Bite Our Tongue (27 September 2018 - 13 January 2019) Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset have been working together since 1995. Through their uncanny installations, the Danish-Norwegian art duo explores

By Sanne Wass

social and sexual politics and unveils power structures embedded in everyday surroundings. This exhibition at the Whitechapel Gallery in London, is the first major overview of Elmgreen and Dragset’s work in the UK, combining a large-scale site-specific installation with six new sculptures and 29 works created over the past two decades. Whitechapel Gallery, 77-82 Whitechapel High Street, London E1 7QX, UK. www.whitechapelgallery.org Issue 116 | September 2018 | 117

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Finnish choir festival (29-30 September) In the last weekend of September, Finnish cappella choirs from around Europe will gather to bring Londoners a selection of songs from the sea. Hosted by Merenkurkut (‘Voices of the Sea’ in English), a Finnish choir based in London, the festival will also include other Finnish choirs and vocal ensembles from Hamburg, Glasgow, Uppsala, Brussels, Frankfurt and Amsterdam. Southwark Cathedral, London Bridge, London SE1 9DA, UK. www.eventbrite.co.uk

Paint The Scream (4-31 October) Hosted by PopUp Painting, this event is themed around Edvard Munch’s iconic The Scream painting. With a drink in one hand and paintbrush in the other, participants will be allowed to unleash their creativity while learning more about the famous Norwegian painter. Various locations in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds. www.popuppainting.com

Lemaitre and Dagny (18 October) Heaven Nightclub in London turns Norwegian for a night in October. Lemaitre, an Indie electronic duo consisting of Ketil Jansen and Ulrik Denizou Lund, will be joined by pop-princess Dagny for a bustling fiery show. 6pm, Heaven, Under The Arches, Villiers Street, London WC2N 6NG, UK. www.heaven-live.co.uk

Mew: Frengers (20 October) Danish trio Mew will be joined at the Barbican by a string ensemble, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of their remarkable album Frengers, featuring tracks from the record and other highlights from their catalogue. Released in 2003, Frengers (a combination of the words ‘friend’ and ‘stranger’) brings together influences from progressive rock, heavy metal and grunge, among other genres. 4pm and 8pm, Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS, UK. www.barbican.org.uk 118 | Issue 116 | September 2018

The Moderna Exhibition (20 October 2018 - 6 January 2019)

Nordic Craft and Design (until 7 July 2019)

Once every four years, The Moderna Exhibition – hosted by Sweden’s state museum for modern and contemporary art – presents a large-scale project with works of nearly forty artists connected to the Swedish art scene. Featuring both a major exhibition and a rich programme of performances, film screenings and talks, the artists will reflect on Swedish society today and look back at Swedish history and influential events. Moderna Museet, Exercisplan 4, 111 49 Stockholm, Sweden. www.modernamuseet.se

This yearlong exhibition at Manchester Art Gallery celebrates the major impact that Nordic design has had on contemporary design and lifestyle. Showcasing influential 20th and 21st century craft and design – anything from furniture, lighting and ceramics, to metalwork, fashion and jewellery – from 1930 to the present day, the exhibition will highlight the superb quality and creativity inherent in design from Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark. Manchester Art Gallery, Mosley Street, Manchester M2 3JL, UK. www.manchesterartgallery.org

Mew. Photo: Morten Rygaard

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Dagny. Photo: Michelle Mayer

Issue 116 | September 2018 | 119

Schackenborg craft beer is an homage to Schackenborg Castle. With its beautiful exterior, historical treasures and labyrinthine nooks and crannies, the castle is a living, breathing place shaped by international influences and proud traditions.

Schackenborg craft beer is brewed from carefully malted barley with added hops. The beers have in common a gorgeous golden colour and a rich, full-bodied taste. The Schackenborg craft beer series enables us to offer you an exclusive and varied assortment with something for every occasion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including fine dining. The two different types of bottles pave the way for both big and small experiences, and the 75cl bottles in particular can replace a good red wine as a dinner companion. The beers are brewed according to recipes steeped in tradition from De 5 Gaarde and in particularly from Schackenborg, each with its own distinctive flavours. The seriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; aesthetic expression is inspired by Schackenborg Castle: the stucco from the Winter Dining Room served as inspiration for the labels, while the slanted font is taken from the ceiling beams where owners, craftsmen and servants have carved their names into throughout the ages. Schackenborg Classic Pilsner 5.5% 33cl | Schackenborg Red Lager 5.6% 33cl | Schackenborg Dark Lager 6.0% 33cl Schackenborg Double Bock 8,5% 75cl | Schackenborg Imperial Stout 10% 75cl

F I N D O U T A N D R E A D M O R E AT W W W. D E 5 G A A R D E . D K

De 5 Gaarde Havnen 1 8700 Horsens Danmark +45 4282 0999