41 minute read
Sweden’s Hidden Gems and Weekend Getaways
HIDDEN GEMS & WEEKEND GETAWAYS Special Theme:
Harbour of Gothenburg. Photo: Göran Assner
A road less travelled: Sweden’s top hidden spots to discover this summer
This month, we’re getting under the skin of Sweden’s summer offering. Northern Europe’s largest country boasts a staggering variety of cosmopolitan cities, untouched wilderness and world-leading arts, culture and business opportunities – but the best-kept secrets are off the beaten track. Read on for our picks of the best hidden gems and weekend getaways to discover on your next trip to Sweden.
By Lena Hunter | Photos: imagebank.sweden.se
June is a fantastic month in the Nordics. The long winter has receded, taking with it the dark, candlelit nights, and ushering in a summer of cobalt skies, vivid urban energy and lush green wilderness. The southern region of Sweden is rich in stunning nature and peppered with historical sites, with a trove of hotels, restaurants, resorts offering local cuisine and off-piste experiences to help you unplug and unwind. At this time of year, the rolling hills of Skåne are carpeted with yellow canola, while the spectacular southern coastline is a summer holiday favourite.
The vibrant city of Malmö – just over the Öresund strait from Copenhagen – is bursting with art and culture venues and events for locals and visitors alike. The centuries-old streets have the heady, melting-pot energy of a city packed with hidden gems, played out beneath a jaw-dropping modern skyline.
From June onwards, Malmö’s world-class Nordic dining scene is flooded with the Swedish summer’s best farm-to-table produce and local seafood, while its thriving ecosystem of seasonal conferences, festivals and summits proves, again and again, why the city is one of Scandinavia’s favourite business destinations. Meanwhile, Sweden’s second-largest city of Gothenburg offers fascinating urban history and world-leading cultural
experiences, in an archipelago locked and loaded with outdoor adventures and breathtaking views.
You’ll find the mildest weather in the south of Sweden, but the entire country enjoys warm summers, with famously long, sun-drenched days that fade into short, turquoise nights. In this edition of Scan Magazine, we’ve curated some of the best hidden gems and weekend getaways to make the most of Sweden’s glorious summer months. Digging beneath the ordinary, our June offering includes a slew of off-the-beaten track hotels, homestays and country lodges, city escapes and wild pursuits, suitable for quick trips and slow stays alike.
For information about travel, accommodation, attractions and more, visit: www.visitsweden.com and www.sweden.se
Photo: Emelie Asplund Visby
Kayaking. Photo: Henrik Trygg
Photo: Tina Axelsson
An escape from the ordinary
A stone’s throw from Gothenburg, somewhat hidden in the forest, lies Öijared Resort. Unassuming yet majestic, this serene hotspot is a firmly-cemented haven for golf lovers and weekend revellers alike – with tonnes more to offer throughout each season of the year.
By Emma Rodin | Photos: Öijared Resort
Easily accessible for both city escapes and international visitors, Öijared Resort is a mere 35 minutes from Gothenburg and 25 minutes from the closest airport. It’s a parallel world where there’s plenty of room to relax and recharge – whether it’s walking the grounds around the resort, enjoying me-time at the spa or practicing swings at the golf course.
Indeed, there’s golf on offer (and a lot of it). “Golf has been played here for over 60 years, it’s become part of our DNA”, says Sandra Taranger Eberstein, managing director at Öijared Resort. “We have the biggest golf centre in Sweden with three 18-hole courses, plus a multi course for golf, football golf and disc golf,” she adds.
And if it’s not the fantastic variety that players come for, it may be to see the architectural wonder that is the golf club house. Designed to live side by side with nature, this building offers great views over the grounds – and even doubles up as the first tee for one of the golf courses.
Great golf aside, Öijared Resort is also home to a stunning hotel and inspiring conference space, hosting both private guests and business meetings. With a range of package deals to choose from, guests can easily make the most of their visit. For instance, the Weekend Package includes accommodation, dinner at the resort’s restaurant, activities and entry to the relaxing pool and sauna.
“Öijared Resort really is the place for anyone looking to enjoy themselves,” says Taranger Eberstein. “We have several great hiking trails surrounding the resort, with package deals including guided tours with food, plus entry to the spa. It’s simply the best of two worlds,” she adds.
The magnificent scenery around the resort is incredibly beautiful, with a sense of peace and serenity that brings instant calm. Perhaps you’ll visit to gain new energy or let some go. Perhaps you’re seeking an inner journey, to reach new heights or to ground yourself. Whatever it is, Öijared Resort can work its magic in many ways – only you decide how.
Web: www.oijared.se Instagram: @oijared_resort
Summer vibes at a dreamy destination in the archipelago
Beautifully located in the archipelago, Hotel Vår Gård Saltsjöbaden has a long history, Sweden’s most fascinating art collection, and delicacies by award-winning chefs and bakers. Recent developments include new rooms and a relaxation area, a wine café and bakery, and a fabulous cocktail bar in the pipeline.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Vår Gård
For almost 100 years, Vår Gård has served as a hotel and meeting place for companies and organisations in the scenic archipelago in Saltsjöbaden, only 15 minutes from Stockholm. The beautiful old buildings were constructed by industry tycoons such as Thiel and Wallenberg over a hundred years ago. Eventually, the estate was purchased by the Swedish Co-operative Union (KF) in the 1920s, and became an educational hub for its many employees. Over the years, tens of thousands of people have come here for training courses.
During the past two years, like many others in the hospitality industry, the hotel has faced some challenges and has had to adapt in what’s sometimes been a stagnant business. Vår Gård took the opportunity to realise some long-awaited plans. So far, the hotel has built a new bakery and wine café, added new rooms with stunning sea views, and opened a new relaxation area, in the hope of more curious visitors finding their way to the hidden gem in the archipelago.
A wine café and bakery, and a new chef In 2020, a brand-new bakery and wine café replaced the old lobby on the entrance level, perfect for Sunday breakfast with the family or for stopping by for lunch or a wine in the evening with a group of friends. “Our ambition is to create an inviting and popular place for both locals and visiting guests. The new bakery and wine café is the start of this ongoing journey,” says Kadi Upmark, CEO. “Our desire was to create a soothing con-
nection to nature, the place and sustainability through Scandinavian craftsmanship with a focus on details. There is a real sense of pride here.”
Another new addition is head chef Magnus Karlsson, appointed in 2021. Karlsson has a clear forté and passion in terms of cooking, sustainability and overall dining experience. “I have worked with many different styles, but I am comfortable in the Swedish-French cuisine,” says Karlsson. “It’s my foundation where I feel at home. I am passionate about working with good raw materials and local produce. But food is so much more than just food. The best thing for me is to go out into a dining room and hear the positive sounds from the guests; to feel the pulse. Food brings people together.”
Fabulous cocktail bar due to open An exciting new project is underway in the old 19th-century villa Skärtofta: a new cocktail bar will take shape and complement the beautiful banquet hall and restaurant. “We have a dream of developing our business and creating even better guest experiences. During the pandemic, several projects could be realised and now the work on Skärtofta’s new cocktail bar has finally begun,” confirms Upmark. The idea is to capture the historic character, but also create elements of modern design in a tasteful way. “We hope to attract both locals and long-distance hotel guests who want to enjoy late cocktails and festive dinners in an atmospheric environment.”
In addition to the spectacular setting and nothing-but-delicious cuisine, Vår Gård has one of Sweden’s best art collections, and guests can explore the works during art tours around the estate’s buildings and park. Here, you can find art by famous Swedish painters such as Olle Baertling, Axel Törneman and Lisa Larsson. And there is plenty more to keep guests active, too, with outdoor adventures, sauna and options for recreation, plus tastings and much more.
Web: www.vargard.se Facebook: Vargardsaltsjobaden Instagram: @VarGardSaltsjobaden
Infinity pool.
Escape to an extraordinary hilltop oasis
The Lodge has become a hub for pleasure seekers, food lovers and spa fanatics near and far. The resort offers more than just a night away; it’s an experience for all the senses. Its unique location, in combination with spectacular food, drinks and surroundings built in a New England style, sets the perfect scene for a unique getaway that brings guests back again and again.
By Nina Bressler | Photos: Ulrika Olsson
The spa and resort is located on Romeleåsen, a hillock where the view is nothing short of spectacular: an unobstructed vista all the way to Malmö, 40 kilometers away, and the Öresund bridge, approximately 50 kilometers away. The location was originally home to a small hunting lodge, the Romele hut, which drew visitors keen to explore the unique nature.
The Lodge was founded by three Swedish friends and adventurers who travelled the world together. It was after an inspiring trip to the North American east coast that they realised they wanted to start a business back home, incorporating the New England style into their venture. They were given the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take over the Romeleåsen location, and The Lodge was born, receiving its first guests in 2006. 16 years and multiple awards later, it remains a top choice for innumerable food and wine lovers looking for a relaxing weekend away.
Find your home away “The Lodge is not just offering a hotel, spa and restaurant as separate entities. Our wholehearted focus is on delivering an experience where everything is connected through wholesome choices. Our restaurant, Heaven, serves a four or eight-course meal of world class standard, where unique flavours are at the centre, meticulously paired with the wine. We use local produce to create dishes that are inspired by our surroundings, the Skåne fields and forests, a landscape that has so much to offer. It’s so peaceful here and we want to offer a relaxed exclusivity,
Spa and hotel in New England style.
a luxurious getaway for every person who seeks a break from the ordinary,” says Camilla Persson, commercial manager at The Lodge. The 22 double rooms are divided in two areas: the Treetop Lodge with a spectacular suite; and the Cabins, connected to the restaurant and spa via wooden-clad walkways that are illuminated during the evenings, bringing another magical touch to the resort.
Aloha! Honulele Spa – a little slice of Hawaii Welcome to Honulele Spa – the most recent addition to the Lodge, a blend of Polynesian treatments, tropical ambience and organic products. Despite its novelty, the spa has already won the World Luxury Spa Award two years in a row. “We haven’t misspelt Honolulu, contrary to what many people believe, but it’s named Honulele because of its Hawaiian meaning: it means the jumping turtle that, according to legend, would lead sailors back home. We want to guide our guests in the same way, back home through recovery and enjoyment in our spa,” says Persson.
It’s located right atop the hillock, overlooking a steep drop and offering breathtaking views over the landscape below and a gorgeous sunset every evening, weather permitting. A tropical atmosphere envelopes the facilities, where hotel guests along with day guests are treated to rejuvenating, restoring and relaxing activities. An eye-catching infinity pool, 12 metres long with a consistent temperature of 38 degrees, in addition to a cold bath and sauna, provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and let deep breaths flow through both body and soul.
Relaxing treatments Are you looking for serious relaxation? Then Honulele Retreat is your answer, where their Aloha Spa Ritual offers 90 minutes of pure restoration through seven different treatments, inspired by Polynesian knowledge and unique techniques. A dedicated host offers guidance throughout each treatment, and afterwards, all guests are welcomed into the VIP section for relaxation in the pool and spa facilities.
Food and drinks can be enjoyed with a relaxing backdrop of the panorama view across the billowing fields below. “The location of this place is quite simply something else. We are located in one of the rare, elevated spots in an otherwise flat province, giving us that viewpoint many other facilities lack. Sitting on our restaurant terrace, watching the sun slowly dipping behind the horizon, is incredibly soothing and, in combination with the spa, food and our comfortable lodges, a visit here is simply something out of the ordinary: an escape to another world,” says Persson. This hidden gem, nestled into the lush, enchanting province of Skåne, welcomes you.
Culinary experiences. Infinity pool.
Four or eight-course dinner and spa day is included in all hotel bookings. Guests without hotel bookings are also welcomed for day visits to the spa and restaurant. Less Ordinary company meetings can also be arranged.
Web: www.thelodge.se Instagram: @thelodgeresort Facebook: The Lodge Resort
Experience food like nowhere else.
Spa weekend with a view.
Your next adventure awaits
Challenge your comfort zone in the adventure park, with high-altitude courses, escape games, team challenges, and much more.
The first Upzone Adventure Park opened in 2009 in Borås based on an idea by German entrepreneur Tamara Christmann Olofsson, who saw a gap in the Swedish market. Over the years, Upzone has grown into a major player with franchises in ten cities.
Here, you can swing between treetops on high-altitude courses, find your way out of escape games, test your archery skills and try a slew of group activities for families, friends or company events.
“At Upzone, you can experience adventure, play and outdoor activities beyond the ordinary,” promises Clara Olovsson, park manager. “There are so many fun things to do, but quality and safety is always at the core, and we’ll ensure your nature experience is a memorable adventure.”
The fun activity, Escape Game, involves solving complex puzzles before time runs out. In Combat Archery Tag, players are assigned a bow and soft arrows and the goal is to hit the opponents. Or, bring your colleagues or friends and test your teamwork in one of the cool team challenges. Hen parties or stag dos are popular too, with exciting group activities and special challenges available.
Regardless of experience, safety comes first and all guests will receive assistance with the equipment. You will learn to climb
By Malin Norman | Photos: Upzone
and secure yourself in intro-zone courses, before you can go free climbing. In all parks, guests climb with a full-body harness and CliC-iT® carabiners for maximum safety. An experienced instructor will supervise activities and provide coaching, so you can relax and have fun whilst also challenging your comfort zone.
scribed with a quote from the Swedish author Björn Ranelid: “Havet och himlen är Kiviks äldsta vänner” (The sea and the sky are the oldest friends of Kivik). It’s the perfect spot for wedding vows or a simple stroll with a stunning sea-view.
As the seasons change, so does the cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. With locally-sourced quality produce, it offers guests a carefully crafted menu, an oyster bar and wine tasting with a selection that would impress Bacchus – the Roman god of wine – himself.
Whether you book a weekend package with spa, go for a hike, take an art tour, book your wedding or a conference here, the emphasis is on a relaxed experience, smoothly curated by the welcoming hospitality of the team at Kiviks Hotell.
Web: www.upzone.se Facebook: officialupzone Instagram: @upzoneofficial
A getaway by the sea, open all year around
On a hill overlooking the Baltic Sea on the south-eastern coast of Sweden, the historic Kiviks Hotell Conference and Spa has welcomed guests for over a century.
By Lotta Lassesson | Photos: Kiviks Hotell Konferens och Spa
The hotel is rich in history: a statue of the author Fritjof Nilsson Piraten welcomes you in the lobby, and the Swedish Prince Eugen came to stay in the 1930s. The main building stems from 1908 and today has 32 rooms, divided into three villas which have been carefully renovated over time.
The in-house spa offers a variety of treatments and their own line of spa products. A new gym is in the works, with sea-facing glass walls. “Guests are always astonished by the nature and the panoramic coastline here,” says marketing manager Annelie Swan.
Old meets new In 2011, the garden was transformed into a renaissance-inspired oasis, with over 30 kinds of roses and a stone monument inWeb: www.kivikshotell.se Instagram: @kivikshotell Facebook: kivikshotell
Explore Sweden by timber rafting down Klarälven
The wilderness of Värmland has a lot to offer: deep forests, windswept fields and the flowing Klarälven – ‘the clear river’. And if you visit Klarälven, you can take part in the unique experience that is timber rafting.
By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Vildmark i Värmland
Timber rafting at Klarälven is organised by Vildmark i Värmland, and it starts with the participants building their own rafts which they take out on the river for the adventure of a lifetime.
“Our timber rafting experience really invites you to enjoy every twist and turn of the river. It can be calm, peaceful and meditative. But the next minute, it can start raining, or the raft can get stuck between rocks. Our guests always come back and say how proud they are for making it. It really is more challenging than you might think!” says Ing-Marie Junler, manager at Vildmark i Värmland.
To build your own raft and then push it out on the river is the ultimate bonding experience, and the perfect getaway for a family, friend group or company.
“It is the perfect trip if you want teambuilding or a way to get closer to your family. You have to work together, and you can’t escape anywhere,” says Junler.
The timber rafting experience is a part of Sweden’s ecotourism quality grading, which guarantees high quality in activities entailing nature conservation.
“Our mission is to support our local community and to preserve the nature that we are so fortunate to have, and we have been working for this since we first started in 1980,” Junler explains proudly.
Web: www.vildmark.se Facebook: Vildmark i Värmland
Heart and harmony in Swedish nature
Picture Kullaberg, one of Sweden’s most magnificent nature reserves. Wild, dramatic and with striking sea views, it’s not only home to a significant number of plants and animals – but to Kullagårdens Wärdshus too.
By Emma Rodin | Photos: Kullagårdens Wärdshus
This popular inn has ties going back to the 16th century, with numerous owners over the years. Today however, Kullagårdens Wärdshus is a family business, run by a husband-and-wife duo. “We both had busy office jobs and wanted a change in pace, so when the inn was up for sale back in 2019, we went for it,” says co-owner Malin Sandström.
With a lot of past travels between them, the pair has used their experience of countless hotel stays to re-shape the inn into a modern country house – while still respecting its history. Harmony is key, and so is care and a personal approach throughout. “The idea is for guests to feel like they’re in someone’s living room with that homely feel,” says Sandström.
Another brand pillar is a sustainable way of working. For instance, its restaurant serves traditional Swedish cuisine with a French touch – all made with local produce including fish and game, always leaving minimal waste. “We bake most bread and pastries ourselves and source some from a local bakery. We also provide vegan and vegetarian options made from scratch in our kitchen,” explains Sandström.
Additionally, free still and sparkling water is served in carafes to help minimise single-use items. “We’re proud to be a certified sustainable partner of Europarc Federation whose network of protected areas Kullaberg is part of,” adds Sandström.
Those who visit Kullagårdens Wärdshus are spoiled for choice when it comes to activities. The inn sits on the grounds of Mölle Golf Club and offers a golf package for keen players. With a backdrop of such natural beauty, the inn offers even more adventure around the corner. There are caves to be explored among the rocky cliffs, kayaking and trails for cycling, and guided walking tours of the reserve can be booked with a packed lunch included. The inn has also partnered with a local porpoise safari, giving guests early access to fast-selling tickets.
The team at Kullagårdens Wärdshus is passionate about providing an all-round experience – with incredible nature, great service and delicious food and drink – of the highest quality, for guests from all corners of the earth. So, when do you fancy going?! The doors to Kullagårdens Wärdshus are always open.
Web: www.kullagardenswardshus.se Facebook: Kullagardenswardshus
Good local food, wines to die for
Sydkustens at Pillehill is regarded as one of the best wine destinations in southern Sweden, with a fabulous restaurant and a wine bar with an award-winning wine list. Plus, you can stay the night in the cosy four-star countryside hotel.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Sydkustens at Pillehill
Sydkustens at Pillehill is a restaurant, a wine bar and a small hotel on the south coast of Sweden, set up in 2015 by Jannike Briesenland-Lister and Johan Lister. “We have a passion for wine and food in combination, and decided to go all in,” says Briesenland-Lister, with a smile. She is the CEO but also head chef and sommelier, setting the menus and deciding the recipes, using wines as the base.
From the outset, the founders have focused on the combination of fabulous wines and tasty food, locally produced if possible and with ingredients picked from their own garden. The dream of developing a true wine destination is well on its way to reality, with an award-winning wine list, a continuously-developing wine cellar with high-quality wines, popular tasting events, and even vines growing outside the window.
Food and wine destination with local produce The restaurant has a set menu that varies based on the seasons – sometimes on a daily basis, depending on what is available from local suppliers. The chef bases the menu and recipes on the wines, which is quite unusual: “You can cook food in so many different ways and add a wide range of spices and herbs, but you can’t change the flavour of the wine. That’s why I use wine as a starting point and go from there.”
Local produce is clearly important, also when it comes to wine. What many might not know is that despite the cool climate, Sweden has been an official wine country since 1999. These days there are some 60 commercial wine producers, focusing mainly on white wine, sparkling wine and rosé. “The types of green grapes cultivated there are aromatic and have high fruit acid, resulting in refreshing wines with green notes, which pair really well
Pillehill has received Gavelinwine’s award Best Wine List 2022 with Swedish Wines.
with spring specialties such as asparagus and rhubarb.”
Pillehill was nominated for the Special Jury Prize 2022 by Star Wine List, a guide to the best wine bars and restaurants, and their extensive list of Swedish and international wines is considered one of the best in the country. In fact, Pillehill has just received Gavelinwine’s award Best Wine List 2022 with Swedish Wines, for its focus on locally produced wines. “Working with Swedish wines came naturally for us and even though we have amazing wines from around the world, we are extra proud to show what Sweden can offer.” Cosy four-star hotel with breathtaking views One of the highest situated estates along the southern coast, Pillehill has stunning views of the surrounding rapeseed fields, and the sea is only two kilometres away. The restaurant’s terrace has an ambiance of being in a southern-European wine region, and the greenhouse is a calm oasis where you can relax with a glass of wine.
The idyllic Pillehill combines a peaceful countryside setting with activities related to the world of wine and food. Wine enthusiasts and gourmands from near and afar come for dinner or tutored wine tastings with friends, but this is also a popular destination for romantic getaways, small, intimate weddings, and company events such as conferences and team meetings.
Guests will be able to experience a little something extra in cosy, individually decorated rooms, suites and guest houses on the estate. And Pillehill is pet-friendly too, so pooches are welcome in most rooms and in the restaurant.
Web: www.pillehill.se Facebook: sydkustensatpillehill Instagram: @sydkustens_at_pillehill
Inhale, exhale and enjoy the westernmost outpost
With 365 islands, one for each day of the year, The Weather Islands make up Sweden’s westernmost outpost. This is a place where people come to just be, surrounded by crystal-clear sea, stillness, seals and porpoises. In other words: a destination to add to your bucket list.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Pia Wind
“It’s like nowhere else,” enthuses Pia Wind, who runs the inn on Storö, the main island. “There’s no TV, no radio – it’s like stepping right into a mini ecosystem where everything you need is right here. You could be standing in the pilot’s lookout with 360-degree views as the wind howls all around. We embrace nature – we’re right there at the heart of it.”
And at The Weather Islands, they walk the talk. They have their own recycling and water treatment plant. There’s no fresh water on the island so they desalt it themselves, adding some minerals for a pure, refreshing flavour. “You don’t just leave the taps running here,” Wind insists. “It brings an awareness: there’s a desperate scarcity of drinking water on this planet, and we’re going to look after it.”
In fact, The Weather Islands have been pioneers in responsible tourism for a long time. Everything is done with a longterm perspective, and the next goal is full self-sufficiency, including electricity. “We’ve got sun panels, we fish for our own seafood... We’ve got no one to rely on but ourselves and that’s, in a way, what makes being on the island so unique.”
Microclimate and wildlife Currently, there are 19 guest rooms ranging from family rooms to a number of small, en-suite rooms with west-facing terraces, perfect for watching the magical sunset. One of the little dwellings, an old historic pilot house next to the inn, has
been renovated and now includes three bedrooms with en-suite, available to rent on a weekly basis. Another nearby pilot house will be ready this autumn.
When guests reach the main island by boat, a host greets them and helps them settle in, adding to the welcoming, personable experience. “People hear about us through word of mouth, and they come here to get away from beeping phones and to just sit in the stillness, perhaps meditating or even only breathing in the clean air,” Wind explains. “Our motto is that when you come here, you can just inhale, exhale and enjoy.”
The Gulf Stream passes to the east, bringing a warm micro climate, and The Weather Islands have incredible wildlife, including Sweden’s biggest seal colony. With crystal-clear water, this is also a great spot for diving – what many might not know is that a coral reef was discovered here just a few years ago.
Bucket list item for all seasons Summertime is peak season at The Weather Islands with the sea full of sailing boats, speed boats and swimmers, and people sunbathing on the cliffs. But the unique environment makes for an unforgettable trip, no matter the season – whether you end up crayfish or lobster fishing, exploring the walking trails, bird watching or just relaxing in the hot tub. “We have it all, from taking part in morning yoga on the cliffs or just enjoying the silence, to seeking shelter from the stormy sea in the warm and cosy restaurant during winter.”
While conference guests are provided with all technical necessities, there is no open wireless network for other guests. “Everyone, teenagers included, is offline – you won’t be streaming movies. But no one ever protests – it becomes more of a simple fact,” concludes Wind. “A 14-year-old boy came asking for the WiFi some time ago. I said that we didn’t have one, and he said ‘OK’ and walked off to play a board game instead.”
The Weather Islands is open all year round. Fly to Gothenburg Landvetter Airport, where you can continue by car, bus or train, or book The Weather Islands’ own shuttle bus.
Web: www.vaderoarna.com Facebook: vaderoarna Instagram: @theweatherislands
Fine dining and storytelling in Österslöv
It seemed the old starch factory in Österslöv, Skåne was beyond repair until 1999, when Richard Nilsson bought the building and turned it into a dynamic restaurant, conference space and hotel. Now, it’s been thriving for 21 years. Although the concept has changed over time, Nilsson and his staff have always strived to share one particular feeling with their guests: cosiness.
By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Bykrogen Österslöv
“We live for cosiness! The original brick walls are complemented with interior textiles like white tablecloths and sofas that invite you to curl up with a good book. We have fireplaces and candles everywhere, and the rooms are small, personal and really cosy,” says Nilsson.
He continues: “Last weekend, one of our chefs baked cinnamon buns, and the gorgeous smell spread throughout the building. Our guests were beyond happy! And you know what goes well with cinnamon buns? A cognac in the sun!”
Another of the establishment’s themes is storytelling – and this is what Nilsson believes makes Bykrogen so special. “We love storytelling; it runs through our whole business. For example, the produce we use in our food is locally-sourced, and our menu shifts with the seasons. This means we can always tell our guests where their food is coming from. Our corn provider (yes, we have one of those!) is a man in a pick-up truck who wears a cowboy hat. His farm is only a couple of kilometres away, and he will roll up with his truck and his corn, which we then cook with truffle and butter. So easy, but so special, because we know exactly who brought it to us!” Nilsson enthuses.
On top of the restaurant and its extensive tasting menu, the conference rooms, and the hotel, Bykrogen offers activities such as wine, beer or whisky tastings, and workshops where guests can cook with their well-travelled and experienced chefs.
“We have two kitchens where we host cook-alongs with our chefs, and this is a great way to bring some team building into, for example, a conference trip. We also have two sommeliers who host wine, beer and whisky tastings. I’m not an expert myself, so I make sure to employ experts who are really skilled within their fields to create these experiences.”
Expertise, cosiness and storytelling are the three words that define Bykrogen – and they are inviting you to join them this summer for great food, a cosy atmosphere, and plenty of stories: both old and new.
Web: www.bykrogen.nu Instagram: @bykrogenosterslov Facebook: Bykrogen Österslöv
A combined table length of almost a kilometre, full of crayfish and side dishes on opening night. Photo: Pierre Ekman
Let the summer festivities begin
Northern Europe’s oldest city festival is gearing up to gather over a million visitors over eight festive days this summer. With a packed programme of over 1,000 scheduled events, there’s something for everyone at Malmöfestivalen.
By John Sempill | Photos: Malmöfestivalen
“We finally have a summer to look forward to,” says co-project organiser David Östberg. “We’ve released our first batch of artists and we can already sense the enthusiasm. We hope it will be a big celebration for Malmö and its visitors in August.”
The first festival was organised in 1985, taking inspiration from the world of sailing. “I wasn’t even born then so I don’t know what it was like,” says Östberg with a chuckle. “What I do know is that the politicians of Malmö had a study trip to the German sailing event Kieler Woche, and said: ‘let’s do something similar in Malmö, in our own way’.”
The idea took off and they’ve already established several traditions. One is the crayfish party on opening night. A combined table length of almost a kilometre on Stortorget square will host a feast of traditional crayfish and sides. “Invite your friends and loved ones, bring a load of crayfish and we’ll provide the entertainment on stage,” explains Östberg. “You don’t even need to book a table.”
Experienced guests know the tables are set in the early hours. “People start arriving at 7am, and the party doesn’t start until 7pm!” he adds.
With some 70 eateries to choose from, you may have a hard time deciding. However, the festival is eight days long; why not try them all? “They all contribute in displaying Malmö’s international tone,” says Östberg. “We have a broad food culture - something our visitors appreciate a lot.”
Another much-loved element is the variety of Swedish and international music artists. Östberg proudly tells us that Denmark’s biggest band, The Minds of 99, will play on Saturday: “It will be their first show overseas. It’ll be a wonderful evening.” Great music and mouth-watering food aside, did you know that the festival area is the size of 90 football pitches? Or that several shows are interpreted for the hearing and visually impaired? The festival has even been awarded several prestigious European awards for its environmental focus and work.
If you find yourself in Malmö between 12 and 19 August, pop by, and share your memories using the hashtags #malmöfestivalen and #mf2022. And did we mention the festival is free, too?
An aerial shot from Stortorget square, capturing the masses watching Swedish artist, Timbaktu.
Web: www.malmofestivalen.se Facebook: malmofestivalen Instagram: @malmofestivalen
An authentic barbecue outpost in southern Sweden
It all started with a longing for something not yet available in Sweden: Americanstyle smoked meat, barbecued for many hours until perfectly tender and tasty. This inspired Holy Smoke BBQ and its fantastic community.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Holy Smoke BBQ
In 2014, Johan Fritzell and Johan Åkerberg opened Sweden’s first authentic American barbecue experience, Holy Smoke BBQ in Bräcke, outside Nyhamnsläge in Skåne. Born from a backyard hobby and a passion for smoked meat, it has become a mega-hit – one of the largest restaurants in Sweden, in fact, with up to 1,500 guests per day.
Holy Smoke is located in a wonderful rustic environment, in the middle of the countryside. “It’s like an outpost, you can even say it’s a bit of Texas in some ways,” says Johan Fritzell. “This is authentic American barbecue, the real thing. We have five smokers working 24/7 and last summer, around 65 staff were making sure that everything was running smoothly. It’s like hosting a festival, every day!”
Backyard hobby turned popular outpost The five smokers are set up to barbecue for up to 24 hours, depending on the type of meat and its size. Guests can choose between different types of protein such as brisket, short ribs, pulled pork, chicken, sausages, plus classic sides like coleslaw and pickles.
Even though Sweden has a long tradition of smoking meat, Fritzell explains that this was for preservative purposes only – so as not to spoil the food. In the US, barbecuing is almost like a religion and the cooking process is different. With lower temperatures, slower and more careful cooking, the result is something quite different; a crispy surface and soft, juicy meat that simply falls off the bone, flavoured by the smoke.
Inspired by culinary trips to Texas in the US, the two founders had built up a great interest in smoking and American-style barbecuing. After smoking meats and
Johan Åkerberg and Johan Fritzell, founders of Holy Smoke BBQ.
hosting barbecues for friends and family in the backyard for a number of years, the idea of opening a restaurant was born.
“It was a challenge as I come from graphic design originally – a completely different industry – so I’m pretty much an autodidact in barbecuing and running a restaurant,” smiles Fritzell. “But thankfully it turned out well and our guests love it.”
Meat crusaders and barbecue community The community is a big part of Holy Smoke and its guests are diverse. Side by side, families with children, bikers and hipsters enjoy the barbecue at long communal tables. They eat, drink beer and socialise, while the children barbecue marshmallows over the open fire. “The community is for real and our smokehouse is like a big workshop, open and on display so that people can see everything that’s happening.”
People usually wonder how it all started and if it is possible to barbecue American-style at home. This inspired the book Holy Smoke - No Smoke But Meat. “We experienced a welcoming and transparent community during our trips to the US, both around the method and the cooking. This was an important guiding light for us when we wrote the book.”
Holy Smoke also offers classes, barbecue courses, cook-a-longs and seminars in its Academy. “We want to share our passion for fire and smoke,” says Fritzell. “So, we invite barbecue legends and pitmasters from the US to lead our classes. They have dedicated their lives to the art of smoking meat. It’s a great hangout and participants will learn about the four pillars of barbecuing; wood, fire, meat and time.”
Cooking class 27-28 June: Take the opportunity to learn from the masters. Ernest Servantes of Burnt Bean Company, the fourth-ranked barbecue restaurant in Texas, will team up with Leonard Botello, owner of Truth Barbecue, the third-ranked barbecue restaurant in Texas. In the class, they’ll share how they smoke brisket and ribs, craft their special sausages and create the most unique barbecued dishes.
Opening hours: From Easter, open Saturday-Sunday for lunch, 11am-5pm Midsummer to mid-August, open every day, 11am-9pm
Holy Smoke BBQ is located on Kullahalvön, one hour north of Malmö and around 1.5 hours from Copenhagen in Denmark.
Web: www.holysmokebbq.se Facebook: holysmokebbqsweden Instagram: @holysmokebbqsweden
Enjoy a night away in comfort. Enjoy the spa and pool at Elisefarm.
Relax in luxurious, rustic comfort
Elisefarm is a spa and hotel whose rustic environment has become a haven for people seeking idyllic relaxation. The hotel offers the best of every world – an outdoor jacuzzi, comfortable rooms, a world-class restaurant and a golf course ranked as one of Sweden’s best.
By Nina Bressler | Photos: Elisefarm
Not far from the big city in the southern province of Skåne, lies a country estate, transformed from an old farm to a charming spa resort. The resort offers worldclass luxury in an intimate environment. “The first thing you encounter at Elisefarm is our tree-clad driveway, leading up to the hotel area. There’s a serenity and calm that welcomes you the moment you enter our premises,” says Ingrid Linné, founder of Elisefarm spa and hotel, together with her husband.
“We’ve taken great care in restoring the existing buildings to keep the old farm feeling intact, while introducing new and modern design and amenities. Despite its proximity to the city, and with Lund and Malmö nearby, it offers such peace – an entryway to an entirely different world,” she says.
In addition to the spa, where the outdoor jacuzzi, indoor swimming pool, sauna and treatment facilities are designed with meticulous attention to detail, the resort comprises hotel rooms, a restaurant based on seasonal, locally-sourced produce, and a golf course ranked among one of the 20 best courses in Sweden.
By ensuring that old details and building structures are preserved and incorporated into their existing facilities, the founders keep a hold on Elisefarm’s history, while looking ahead with an ambitious vision. Thanks to the ample amount of space, they plan to build an entirely new neighbourhood just off the golf course, complete with a gym, school and shops, but within easy reach of the peaceful nature and spacious fields. 700 new homes are in the works.
“Elisefarm is the perfect getaway from a busy lifestyle, where top-class facilities meet the serenity of the Skåne countryside. Our team is incredibly welcoming and we know how to create the best experience for our visitors. We’re moving forward while keeping our roots, with an unwavering focus ahead: to offer relaxation and enjoyment for all senses whether you come for the food, golf, spa or simply a night away,” concludes Linné.
Top class golf course.
Dine in their renowned restaurant.
Web: www.elisefarm.se Instagram: @elisefarm
Photo: Hendrik Zeitler
Röda Sten Konsthall is a creative, urban destination with a fascinating historic past, in close proximity to beautiful nature. Located under the Älvsborg Bridge, it could be said that it feels a bit like being in New York.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Ellika Henrikson
Röda Sten Konsthall is a popular recreational area in Gothenburg for tourists and locals including graffiti artists, skaters, dancers, sunbathers, strollers, families with children and senior citizens. “Röda Sten Konsthall is a magic meeting place for people of all ages,” confirms Mia Christersdotter Norman, director. “Here, you can experience exhibitions and performances by Swedish and international contemporary artists, in an exciting location under the Älvsborg Bridge. You can also visit one of Gothenburg’s most stunning outdoor restaurants for a tasty meal or a fika!”
The place is loaded with history. Here, you can find remains from the Stone Age and also medieval remains from the old Älvsborg fortress. The 18th-century East Indiaman was moored and keeled here, and enterprising Scots established a community in the 19th century, with their own church and school erected around Carnegie sugar factory and porter brewery. The art gallery sits in an old boiler house built in 1940, which served as a heating plant for nearby industries. The heating plant was closed in 1957, in connection with the closure of the sugar factory.
Inside and outside, you can see traces of the 1980s and ‘90s rave parties, as well as the graffiti painters, who were active here after the heating plant was shut down. In the early 1990s, the building was threatened with demolition; however, a group of people came together and formed an association to save it.
Röda Sten Konsthall has grown into an important art institution and nowadays is a well-known destination for international contemporary art. Across the art gallery’s four floors, you can experience both new and emerging, as well as established, artists. The place offers exciting perspectives from the past and a taste of what the future of art will look like.
Photo: Hendrik Zeitler
Extensive programme of summer activities Since 2004, you will have been able to find one of Gothenburg’s legal graffiti walls, Draken (The Dragon), outside the art gallery. The two-sided 41-metre wall was created by artist Per Agélii, and anyone can explore their own creativity on the wall. “A lot of people come here to watch the artists or might try themselves,” says Christersdotter Norman. “The graffiti wall and the skate plaza add to the atmosphere of being in New York and, at the same time, it’s in a historic place.”
At Röda Sten Konsthall, you can see everything from painting and photography to performance, video and sound art. There is a wide range of screenings, talks, lectures and creative workshops for all ages, inspired by the exhibitions’ expressions and issues. An important part of the activities is for children and young people. Ung & Skapande is aimed at people between the ages of 12–25, and for younger children there are workshops on Saturdays and Sundays during summer. Röda Sten Konsthall also offers activities for school classes during semesters, as well as workshops aimed at adults.
Upcoming exhibitions 2022:
11 June–14 August This summer, the gallery is hosting a new exhibition with Hillside Projects, Arijit Bhattacharyya and Julia Schuster. The title, dhakdhakho-humaheekff iiiie, takes inspiration from one of the artworks in the exhibition, exploring the transformation of thoughts in time and space, as well as the concept of movement of ideas and bodies.
3 September–20 November Also showing at the gallery will be an exhibition with Gabriela Pichler, Johan Lundborg and Pilvi Takala. Pichler and Lundborg are well-known filmmakers with works such as Eat,Sleep, Die and Amateurs. Takala is a Finnish artist, who was chosen to represent Finland at this year’s Venice Biennale.
During the summer exhibition, screenings are offered every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Take the opportunity to participate in a tour with one of the dedicated educators. The screenings are free and included in the entrance ticket. Summer activities at Röda Sten Konsthall:
15 June–11 August, Wednesdays and Thursdays Workshops for those interested in graffiti and street art, who are between 12-19 years old. A chance to paint, print, spray, roll and test different methods.
18 June–14 August, Saturdays and Sundays Explore various artistic expressions and materials with inspiration from ongoing exhibitions together with art educators. Open for children from 3 years old, and adults.
Web: www.rodastenkonsthall.se Facebook: rodastenkonsthall Twitter: @rodasten Instagram: @rodastenkonsthall
