This January, we celebrate two milestones: the beginning of a new year, and the 150th issue of Scan Magazine. Their coincidence feels auspicious, and we’re kicking off 2023 with a sense of energy, prospect and curiosity.
Speaking of milestones, our cover star, trailblazing Danish chef Rasmus Kofoed, has hit plenty as of late. Last year, his three-Michelin-star Copenhagen restaurant Geranium boldly defied convention by dropping all meat from its menu, in a move that Kofoed described as ‘liberating’. A few months later, Geranium was awarded first place in the prestigious World’s 50 Best Restaurants rankings. Though already a leader in the Scandinavian food scene, Kofoed saw his international renown climb to new heights overnight. In our conversation, he shares his new-year perspectives on risk, change and reward, and we ask what’s next, when you’re the world’s best?
In the spirit of challenging convention, our special theme Ten Destinations to Visit in Sweden in 2023 proposes a more adventurous approach to Nordic travel, this year. We’re not going to
Stockholm, Gothenburg or Malmö – we’re heading to the stomach-churningly high sea-cliffs on the southern High Coast, and discovering pilgrim routes on the banks of the sprawling Lake Vänern in the heart of the country. Likewise, in our Top Experiences in Finland theme, we’re not taking a city break in Helsinki, but embarking on a silent restorative retreat deep in the pine forest, with a lakeside sauna and woodland cabins. For more on saunas, dig into the rich myths and history behind the favourite Scandi pastime with our feature on the health benefits of sweating it out. Elsewhere, we’re profiling some of the Nordics’ most explorative business ventures, from interior design made from moss, to the rare art of hand-engraving.
Plus, unearth new names in Nordic fashion in our monthly Fashion Diary, tunes in our roundup of hot new music, and events in our comprehensive Scandi culture calendar. It’s a new year, with new possibilities – let’s find out what’s in store.
Lena Hunter, Editor
34 Trailblazing chef Rasmus Kofoed: On top of the world, where to next?
Rasmus Kofoed’s career reached a crescendo last year, when his Copenhagen restaurant, Geranium, was awarded the global top spot at the annual World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards. We caught up with the visionary Danish chef to talk winning accolades, meat-free fine dining and the year ahead.
6 January style guide and Nordic design spotlight
This month’s Fashion Diary is wrapped up warm with snug styles for cold weather, while our design column has dry January covered with six of Scandinavia’s best waterproof accessories. Elsewhere, we’ve profiled some of the Nordics’ most exciting names in modern design, from sleek kitchen fitters to precious-metal hand-engravers and even a Finnish company turning forest moss into bespoke interior decorations.
24 On sauna magic, Korean and Finnish cosmetics, and 2023 drinking predictions
We trace the history of sweating it out in the sauna, from their role in ancient survival to the myriad of health benefits we know of today. Then, we speak to the only cosmetics store in the Nordics that stocks Korea’s hyped K Beauty and ElishaCoy collections, to find out what all the fuss is about. Over in Finland, we introduce you to a natural home products company so luxurious, that people are hiding it from their partners. Plus, beer expert Malin Norman looks ahead to the boozy trends we can expect this year, and our sustainability columnist Alejandra Cerda Ojensa lays the fast fashion industry bare. 42
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Visit a restorative retreat on the banks of Lake Saiima and discover the moreish local pastries stuffed with potato and egg-butter in Karelia, Finnish Lakeland, a region with no less than four stunning national parks. While you’re in the area, pay a visit the historical Pulsa Station – a piece of railway history that has been transformed into a beloved local boutique bed and breakfast. Plus, get to know the Finnish-made electric snow scooter that’s bringing the arctic wilderness into easy reach.
48 Ten destinations to visit in Sweden, 2023
We’ll introduce you to three refreshing breaks on the east-coast – a stretch dotted with historical villages but renowned for its modern, airy and lively metropolises. Then we’re sweeping down to three more must-visits in the extreme south, where the High Coast – arguably the most idyllic archipelago in the country – lies. Plus, we visit two south-west coastal towns, where you’ll find vineyards, cycling trails, pilgrim routes and historical bathing spots, and two picturesque escapes on the banks of the colossal Lake Vänern in the heart of the country.
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In this mini theme, we meet three beloved Norwegian businesses that have mastered their niche. We get to know the distillery making Norway’s best gin, the crisp company behind Norway’s favourite snacks, and the brand of authentic wool sweaters that every Norwegian has in their closet.
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What’s new in Scandi music? Resident music columnist Karl Batterbee has the lowdown, with his selection of the new releases you will be listening to, this January. Meanwhile, illustrator Maria Smedstad recalls the Swedish ‘80s, as she traces the wool fashion trends of today. Plus, look to our monthly culture calendar for your guide to the hottest tickets in the Nordic arts scene.
Let’s hit the slopes! You might not be the fastest or best downhill skier, but you can for sure be the best-dressed one. Embrace winter’s finest adventures dressed up and snug wearing the season’s on-trend colours and most versatile, convertible styles.
By Åsa H. Aaberge | Press photosThe quilted Nebraska parka is like wearing a stylish cloud. It’s cosy and warm, made from lightweight recycled materials, and filled with reused down and feathers. Plus, it has a detachable hood, sizable pockets and adjustable ties at the waist, so you can personalise the fit.
Nebraska Down Parka, €650 www.axelarigato.com
Wakayama is an all-around retro-inspired ski glove, functional and warm both on and off-piste for the stylish skier. They are made from leather with outseams along the fingers, which provides a distinct look while optimising freedom of motion and grip, while the removable wool liner keeps you warm. The gloves come in five colour options, and in a mitten style, if you prefer.
Wakayama 5-finger, €135 www.hestragloves.eu
The fashionable resurgence of the balaclava from a few seasons ago is showing no signs of waning this winter, with more designs and new shades on the market. The unisex version from the Norwegian brand Holzweiler is made in smooth cashmere and comes in a range of colours. We love this in light blue!
Trin Balaclava, €205 www.holzweileroslo.com
The Winter Muck boots from Norwegian Amundsen Sports are handcrafted in wool loden and suede leather, with insulated gaiters for warm and comfy protection against freezing toes. Plus, to ensure you do not slip on snow and ice, the boots have a hardy Vibram Arctic Grip outer sole. They come in eight hues, from winter white to navy and beaming red.
Winter Mucks, €350 www.amundsensports.com
It might be freezing, but you can still look cute. Top off your outfit with a little beret and you are good to go. The dazzling blue of this mohair beret from Danish label Ganni will immediately elevate your winter look. On far-below-freezing days, we suggest donning a hood or balaclava underneath, with the beret on top. Double the warmth, double the style.
Mohair Beret, €80 www.ganni.com
The lightweight design filled with compact insulation makes these cotton candy pink pants excellent for long days outside in cooler weather. The wide silhouette and soft matte finish of pink nylon make the pants both adorable and applicable.
Snow Padded Nylon Pants, €275 www.rains.com
This chunky half-zip sweater featuring a Fair Isle pattern is knitted in a comforting wool and cashmere blend, and the boxy fit allows for layering underneath when worn on-piste. It is also an excellent option for snuggling up by the fire after a long day outdoors in the fresh winter air. It pairs perfectly with these base layer pants and ski gloves, also in delicate cashmere and wool.
Ski Fair Isle, €385
Ski Base Layer Pants, €185
Ski Gloves, €65 www.softgoat.com
Fingerless gloves are an amazing way to keep warm without sacrificing your dexterity. This pair is rib-knitted in soft alpaca wool, and made in Norway. The orange hue adds a perfect touch of colour to your outfit, be it for the slopes or for a brisk, chilly walk.
Bonus: they come in enamel and black, too!
Kate Fingerless Gloves, €59 www.oleana.no
It’s snowing in the Fashion Diary, but it’s raining over here. In Scandinavia, Norway typically sees the most rainy days in January, with 12.57 days of downpours, while Sweden sees the fewest, with 10.62. Don’t let the wet weather dampen your spirits – take the opportunity to flash your best waterproof design. Here, we’ve selected six of our favourite Scandinavianmade items to outsmart the weather forecast.
By Lena Hunter | Press photosRecyled tote by Grundéns
Grundéns, from the west coast of Sweden, is a through-and-through fishing brand. We’re talking GORE-TEX bibs, rubber deck-boots, scalloping aprons, high vis commercial fishing jackets, knives and tool-belts. But this tote bag, though!
Constructed from PVC/PU blend material upcycled from scraps from their bib production, the Shoreman Tote Bag transcends fishing gear and knocks this look out of the park. The high-contrast, branded straps are trés cool, and the petite logo has an almost Hermes style typeface. Available in black and orange, too, this piece of shoulder candy is as robust as they come and fully waterproof.
Shoreman Tote Bag in White, €50 eu.grundens.com
Norwegian Rain’s Gdansk Unisex jacket was designed according to the seven defining traits of Japanese Shibusa: simple, implicit, modest, natural, everyday, imperfect and silent. The fabric is near-black – creating a softer look that avoids the severe Matrix-aesthetic that darker overcoats can convey. Meanwhile, muted detailing like quilt-stitching, leather button loops and a short sash at the waist set it apart from garden-variety raincoats.
Gdansk Unisex, €1,090 www.norwegianrain.com
Unisex jacket by Norwegian Rain
OK, don’t be mad: galoshes. Yes, those slip-on rubber overshoes. Johan Ringdal founded his Scandinavian label SWIMS in 2006 after strolling the rainy streets of Manhattan, and thinking: what if I redefined this shoe? And redefine it he did. SWIMS Classic Galosh protects dress shoes from wet weather, with a restrained, utilitarian design. And really, who else is making modern galoshes? SWIMS has even exhibited at Pitti Uomo in Florence, Italy, one of the most important men’s trade fairs and runway events for emerging designers in the fashion calendar. You heard it here.
Classic Galosh in Black, €80 eu.swims.com
This folding umbrella in Pantone’s joyous 012C yellow shade is a ray of sunshine. If you’re feeling peachy, go for Light Pink (182C). Or stay classy with Black (419C) and Cool Grey (9C). There are more to choose from, and there’s something strangely satisfying about unfolding a beaming hexagon of paint-palette red above your head when the drops start to fall.
PANTONE Umbrella in Yellow 012C, €40 www.copenhagen.design
Danish RAINS’ waterproof cap is a PU-fabric take on the classic baseball cap, with a six-panelled design held in place by an adjustable strap and buckle. This is a lifesaver worn under a hood when cycling to protect your eyes from lashing rain, and you can simply shake it off when you get inside.
Cap in Navy, €42 www.rains.com
Danish Mismo’s padded M/S Pouch in waterproof Italian hard-woven nylon easily accommodates a 14-inch laptop, A4 documents or magazines. It’s pragmatic luxury at its best, with a dark brown leather trim and solid brass hardware coated in gold. Meanwhile, the uncompromising material quality ensures this case will maintain its stylish look for years.
M/S Pouch Large in Navy/Dark Brown, €150 www.mismo.dk
Laptop case by Mismo
Cap by RAINS
Bucks and Spurs designs stylish wooden fronts for IKEA kitchen frames. With the wooden fronts as a base, you can easily play around with other materials, structures and colours.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Bucks and Spurs
Swedish brand Bucks and Spurs was set up by Marina Dahlblom and Helena Wendt in 2013, with the idea of creating an interior concept with flexible kitchen modules. Shortly thereafter, the duo launched Railway Kitchen, a modular kitchen solution.
Railway Kitchen, with its fusion of sleek, modern Scandinavian design and rustic American ranch feeling, was awarded Kitchen of the Year 2015 by the ELLE Decoration Awards. The same year, Railway Kitchen was nominated for Guldstolen by Architects Sweden, thanks to its classic yet innovative design language and playfulness.
“We have a passion for wood, craftsmanship and long-lasting design,” explains co-founder Helena Wendt. “All our products are designed and manufactured in Sweden, with genuine craftsmanship knowledge and an eye for detail. Wood, as a sustainable material, is the base, but we also encourage customers to consider, for instance, counter tops in local stone.”
The two founders are celebrating 20 years as female entrepreneurs. They started out in the advertising industry, running an ad agency together, and eventually moved into interior design. “We had an interest in design and wanted to create something based on our own preferences,” says Helena. For us, this means a mix of Scandinavian design, clean and simple lines, natural and beautiful materials.”
The duo certainly did something right, garnering a warm welcome and plenty of attention. “At the time, white kitchens were trendy, so perhaps we were a bit ahead of our time with our wood kitchens,” says Helena, with a smile. “But we truly believe that wood can easily be combined with other materials for a modern look. And it turns out that people love that cosy, warm and beautiful base that we provide for their homes.”
In 2019, Bucks and Spurs launched its first premium wooden front for IKEA kitchen frames, called Raw Oak. As Helena explains: “The design has been refined from our original solution, but we have kept the craftsmanship and the beautiful details, thanks to a close dialogue with our carpentry workshop. We don’t want to compromise on quality, so each piece of veneer is still cut by hand and then combined into patterns. This means that every front is unique and your kitchen gets a personal, harmonious look.” It’s a flexible and affordable solution with Swedish craftsmanship in combination with IKEA’s functional frames.
With the same focus on the handcrafted woodwork, Bucks and Spurs’ big hit in their product line-up is Flat Oak. The smooth and elegant oak front has a unique finish, thanks to its beautiful hand-picked veneer. The design is warm
and natural, and adds a timeless look to interiors. The same aesthetic of classic elegance goes for Flat Walnut.
Meanwhile, a new product in the range, Color+, comprises a painted wooden front in ash veneer, with stylish bevelled-edge detailing, available in any colour. It’s perfect in combination with the wooden fronts. Soon to be launched is the new front, Plank Oak, which will also champion high-quality handcraft.
In addition to the popular wooden fronts for the IKEA frames for kitchens and wardrobes, Bucks and Spurs offers
custom-made and modular kitchens, and some customers decide to go for a mix. “Although we come up with the wooden designs, this is just a base that can be varied endlessly,” says Helena. “We want to inspire people to create their own personal, beautiful and playful spaces by combining IKEA frames with our wooden fronts.”
All Bucks and Spurs products are available across Europe.
www.bucksandspurs.se Instagram: @bucksandspursstockholm Facebook: Bucksandspurs
Can you enjoy long, nice showers without wasting water and energy? Yes, you can.
Orbital Shower cleans and recirculates water, saving up to 90% water and 80% energy, without any compromise on comfort. An even better and more sustainable shower experience, quite simply.
orbital-systems.com
Welcome home to a better way of showering.
The traditional artform of hand-engraved jewellery has become a rarity, as have skilled engraving teachers and goldsmith schools. But at TIRA Jewellery – a collaborative jewellery studio in Kuopio, Finland, founded by designer Minna Meskanen and master hand-engraver Kari Puustinen – the ancient craft is thriving.
By Lena Hunter | Photos: TIRA Jewellery
“I met Kari in a goldsmith workshop where I was a trainee. There, I fell in love with the artistry of hand-engraving. It makes all your jewellery design desires possible,” recalls jewellery designer Minna Meskanen. Today, she and Puustinen collaborate directly at TIRA Jewellery – one of the few goldsmiths in Finland where bespoke, hand-engraved pieces can be designed, produced and finished under one roof.
Meskanen’s jewellery designs have an astonishingly precise sense of form, something that hand-engraving is uniquely able
to capture. “Ideation and design work are my specialty,” says Meskanen. “We also combine disciplines like 3D-modelling with hand-engraving. That’s how our work is different from others’. By combining the traditional and the modern, we can bring any dream to life.”
A
Puustinen’s skills are renowned in Finland, and TIRA Jewellery’s custom wedding and engagement rings are particularly sought-after. Hand-cut pieces have a notorious sparkle, and the high degree of detail is lively and romantic, with tiny, furled leaves of gold and nestling jewels that imitate nature.
“Many of our clients bring gold rings from their grandparents to be melted and newly formed – so it carries an emotional attachment,” says Meskanen. “All gold has a story. It can be forever recycled, so we’re
very conscious of sourcing. With every new precious material that comes to us –from yellow, white and rose gold, to silver and gemstones – we ensure that it’s ethical and environmentally sustainable.”
Of all Meskanen’s beautifully realised rings, earrings and pendants, perhaps her proudest is the Sofia collection in aid of the beloved 100-year-old Mannerheim Children’s Protection Association (MLL). The delicate pendants for children and adults, inspired by young people’s artwork and the values of MLL, immortalise a personal, hand-engraved message or memory in gold, and have become favourite christening gifts.
“In Finland, every child and family has benefitted from the fundamental care work of MLL,” explains Meskanen. “It’s a cause very close to my heart, and it gives my work a different kind of meaning when I can help others charitably, as well as creating a beautiful keepsake that will be cherished for life.”
www.tira.fi
Instagram: @tirajewellery
Facebook: TiraJewellery
The Finnish company Laawu offers sustainably built and ecological mini-cabins, that sit perfectly in the landscape and are individually customised for each site. They provide beautifully designed and affordable accommodation, of the highest environmental and aesthetic standards.
By Mari Koskinen
“The idea for these space-saving and functional A-framed huts was first born many years ago, at a summer party at our family cottage. There was a constant need for additional accommodation for friends and family, that would fit nicely in the landscape,” explains Laawu’s founder Juho Repo. He started the business three years ago, just when the pandemic was causing an upswing in nature adventures. “For Laawu, the timing was perfect. There was sudden demand for this type of alternative accommodation,” he says.
Laawu’s concept is that the design of the huts is customised for each location, so they form a part of the unforgettable experience at different nature destinations. Their harmonic appearance and the full-size window wall allow you to feel part of the surrounding nature. They are often used for accommodation, but are suited for multiple purposes such as a studio, work space or sauna.
During the first year, Repo put in a lot of effort to finalise the prototype with the support of Xamk, the South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences. “Since then, we have continued the development in collaboration with other local entrepreneurs, who have helped to design and produce the first huts,” explains Repo.
He has plans to take Laawu huts abroad, and intends to bring the traditional Finnish building craftsmanship along. “These talented professionals have helped Laawu to develop the concept further, and also to build a strong production and logistic processes,” Repo says. “Partnering with the best local companies has been one of the keys to our success. It brings together experts in different fields.”
The huts are built from excess wood from the local sawmill, and they use wood-fibre insulation, which ensures the breath-
ing structure is free of chemicals and plastics. But responsibility does not just mean environmental values. Laawu also invests in social projects, like education. “We have started our own apprenticeship programme, which trains new professionals both for our own needs and our partners’,” Repo says. The first students have started their studies earlier this year and are already moving towards new assignments.
With enthusiasm, solid values and shared know-how, Laawu and its partners are well on the way to bringing
their unique and luxurious experience to the rest of the world.
www.laawu.fi
Instagram: @laawu.fi Facebook: laawu.fi LinkedIn: Juho Repo
Polarmoss is a family-run business, based on the idyllic Hailuoto Island in Finland’s northern Baltic Sea. The company honours an almost century-old handicraft and the tradition of harvesting and preserving moss. This unique work brings Nordic nature and soft connection to nature into people’s lives.
By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Polarmoss
The beautiful island of Hailuoto, close to the Arctic Circle, is known for its picturesque and unspoiled nature, and its rich and unique ecosystem. This is where Polarmoss’ story began in 1985 – although the company’s tradition of moss utilisation dates back over 80 years. Today, the moss company has been in the family for four generations.
Hailuoto Island has a longstanding history of handicraft – and Polarmoss see their own operations as a continuation of that heritage. The lichen available on the island is of deep significance to Polarmoss, who are harvesting and utilising the moss according to a tradition that is almost a century old.
Polarmoss specialises in designing and manufacturing interior design elements
made of moss. The elements, which can be custom-made to any specifications, come in a number of shapes, sizes, textures and colours.
Every step of Polarmoss’ production –from harvesting to colouring – is done by hand by the company’s 40-strong team. The production process starts by carefully hand-picking the correct grades of moss in the forest. This requires a lot of skill, knowledge and patience, as the same picking area can only be used at intervals of five to ten years. The eco-friendly colouring process has been developed over a period of decades, and the pigments and ingredients used in the process are non-toxic.
“There are over 20,000 different types of moss and lichen in the world, and more than 2,000 of those can be found in Finland. The one we use is called Reindeer lichen (lat. Cladonia stellaris). They’re not plants, they’re living organisms with complex functions, and we have to be mindful not to jeopardise them in any
way. We always leave the forest in wellcared-for condition and ensure that moss has time to recuperate between picking periods. We respect nature and its gifts to us,” Mikko Sipola, head of management at Polarmoss, explains.
The moss elements can be used in residential, commercial or public spaces. In addition to being stunning design features, they can be used for acoustics purposes, and as a way to balance humidity levels in a room, due to the natural moisture-binding and releasing properties of moss. “Although the moss in our products is no longer living, it’s still a natural product, and just like wool or wood, it reacts to variations in humidity levels,” Sipola explains.
The moss is delicate and flexible at the same time. Depending on the humidity levels in the space, the moss might feel tough or soft. Better yet, there is no need to maintain it. “There is something very calming about the moss, and it can be used to complement, enhance and calm the surrounding space,” he continues.
Despite Finland’s famous ‘Everyman’s Right’ – which stipulates that all people residing or visiting Finland have the right to pick berries and mushrooms and enjoy nature anywhere in the country regardless of land ownership – the rule does not apply to moss-harvesting, and Polarmoss pays the forest owners for the moss it picks from their forests. “We never harvest moss mechanically, as this often damages it, and causes it to stop growing in that particular area,” says Sipola.
The moss company’s genuine respect for nature is evident in their whole ethos and approach. “We value authenticity above all, and we make sure our business reflects that. Our employees are skilled people who work very carefully and in an environmentally sustainable way to bring nature closer to people on each continent, and in some of the world’s largest metropoles – from London to Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Dubai, Shanghai, Tokyo and Seoul,” says Sipola.
“We are proud to design and create contemporary products using traditional methods and skilful handicraft that has been passed down through generations. This also means that our customers are able to experience and interact with the beauty that Nordic nature has to offer through our products. This is our mission and the inspiration behind everything we do.”
www.polarmoss.fi
Instagram: @polarmossltd
Ferno Mobility builds and rebuilds vehicles to bring your dream car to life. Whether you are a carpenter or a doctor needing a customised vehicle, Ferno Mobility will map out a plan to turn your vision into a reality. With a focus on sustainable solutions and creative methods, they’ll build a car that fits perfectly into your day-to-day life.
By Andri Papanicolas | Photos: Ferno MobilityImagine if you bought a seven-seat van a few years ago, but today only need two seats and extra storage. Instead of selling and buying a new van, Ferno Mobility is able to rebuild the one you already have. It’s good for you and good for the environment.
Ferno Mobility works as a counterweight in the consumer society we live in today. “We choose our suppliers carefully and make sure that we always go for the local option if possible. If not, we do thorough research to ensure that the suppliers are operating within the law and do not contribute to child labour, for example. That is an important value to us,” says sales manager Dan Thomas Harila.
In addition to rebuilding the structure, Ferno Mobility is specialised in integrating smart solutions to optimise the space. They are extremely versatile
and their list of clients encompasses everything from emergency responders to local electricians.
In one project, they customised a van for the environmental unit in Trondheim. They were tasked with building a vehicle fitted to care for animals and pick up road kill. Ferno Mobility created a van with tool-storage, a locked armory, a cage and space for any potential animal cadaver.
Ferno Mobility is not an ordinary car shop, where you go to change your gearbox. Here, you’ll find experts in providing high-quality, creative solutions. The team has many years of experience in coming up with new approaches to rebuilding vehicles. “Whatever your job is or what your needs are, as long as it is within the law, we can build it. The sky is the limit,” says Harila.
So, if you wish your vehicle was better suited to your needs, it might be wise to talk to the team at Ferno Mobility and find out how to make it happen.
www.fernomobility.com
Instagram: @fernomobility
Facebook: Ferno Mobility As
Finland’s long love affair with liquorice looks set to be shared with the rest of the world, thanks to the Kouvola Liquorice company.
By Philip Denvir | Photos: Kouvola LiquoriceThe craft candy company has plans to target the global luxury food market with its handmade sweet treats. Company owner, Timo Nisula explains: “There is a lack of premium liquorice worldwide. We are a small player, but we want to be the best. We have been doing some export but now we have decided to be number one in the world. Whenever someone buys a Bugatti, we want our liquorice in every front seat.” Nisula plans to get his product into high-end retail outlets around the world and is about to launch a new range of designer packaging.
Founded in 1906 in the city of Vyborg, the company moved to the city of Kouvola in
south-eastern Finland after WWII and was granted a government licence in 1945 to produce liquorice and other candies in Finland. In 2008, Timo Nisula bought the company with a view to creating an internationally-acclaimed designer product.
Kouvolan Liquorice is more of a cottage industry than a factory. There are no production lines or heavy machinery. Instead, every morsel is made by hand, using traditional methods. “We differentiate our product by it being 100 per cent handmade. It is cooked low and slow for several hours before being prepared, packed and sent. We don’t warehouse our product, it is shipped immediately.
Kouvolan Liquorice is smooth and nev-
er bitter, unlike many other liquorice products. You can’t make a first-class product in a hurry. And, of course there is our secret ingredient – love!” says Nisula, self-proclaimed ‘el presidente’ of the Republic of Liquorice.
Kouvola Liquorice was recently chosen as the best liquorice-maker in a survey by a leading lifestyle magazine, due to its liquorice being handmade in a traditional manner and being of consistently high quality. Liquorice is almost universally popular in Finland, and consumer research by UCLA found that the homegrown treat came out on top in the US market.
“In Finland, we don’t have much gourmet food. Most candies are about instant gratification, not savouring the sweets. There is currently no category for premium liquorice candy. It is a niche market
but I believe Finland should strive to be number one in many premium gourmet markets,” says Nisula
“Our aim is to become the number one most valuable brand that people are willing to pay extra for. We want our liquorice to be savoured and enjoyed as a connoisseur item. So, we are working on new designer packaging in order to transform Kouvolan Liquorice into a luxury brand for export.”
Kouvola Liquorice has been a pioneer in many ways: they were the first to send liquorice into space, and made a splash with their liquorice beer. In 2016, the company collaborated with acclaimed Finnish designer Eero Aarnio – famous for the iconic 1960s Ball Chair. Together, artist and artisan created the world’s first designer sweet and Ghost liquorice was born.
The company’s green credentials are also impeccable. Kouvola Liquorice prides itself on being as environmentally sustainable as possible. Instead of offsetting their carbon footprint by planting trees halfway across the world, Kouvola Liquorice is investing in regenerating Finland’s forests.
This will be a big year for Kouvola Liquorice. With sales up 28 per cent yearon-year, the company is about to open a second operation in its hometown. This will increase production capacity to meet demand for international exports and target the premium market. The firm anticipates a 33 per cent increase in turnover in 2023. The expansion will also increase the workforce from 33 employees to up to 50.
“The global liquorice market is underdeveloped and there is significant potential for growth of about ten times the current market size. We just have to get more people around the world loving liquorice. Internationally, that could be a one billion US dollar business,” explains Nisula. “Our target is to get into more exclusive stores for people who desire a high quality treat with a story. We want to spread the decadent joys of top-quality liquorice.”
Liquorice has long been prized for its medicinal properties. Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and Napoleon all recognised the benefits of liquorice and used it to help with nerves and to improve energy levels. It is still used for its anti-inflammatory benefits in Asian medicine and beauty products, and as a health food in North America. It was in 1776 that an Englishman created the tasty treat as we now know it.
“If liquorice was good enough for Caesar and the Pharaohs, it is good enough for us,” quips Nisula. “Of course, we don’t claim that liquorice candy is good for one’s health, but it does make you happy, and that is good for you!”
www.kouvolanlakritsi.fi
Instagram: @kouvolanlakritsi
Facebook: kouvolanlakritsi
F reshly made skincare
In autumn 2020, Swedish brand Skinome launched a world-unique concept called freshly made skincare. The concept is based on over ten years of ground-breaking research on the skin and skincare and has been developed under the guidance of Skinome’s founder, skin researcher and author of the bestselling book ”The Scandinavian Skincare Bible”, Dr. Johanna Gillbro.
Preservatives and other additives are ingredients you find in skincare for the sake of the productnot for the good of the skin. In Skinome’s freshly made skincare, you only find ingredients that are there for the skin. Just as fresh food is good for your overall health, freshly made skincare is good for your skin health.
2.Suppor t your microbiome
Skinome’s freshly made skincare supports your skin microbiome, which recent research show plays an important role for healthy skin. Thanks to ingredients such as pre-, pro- and postbiotics, Skinome’s formulas strengthen the microbiome.
Skinome uses skin-identical ingredients which are substances found naturally in the skin and therefore support the skin’s own (super competent) system. These ingredients provide benefits such as a strengthened skin barrier, a more even skin tone, reduced fine lines and of course – lots of moisturization!
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160 billion live bacteria in a small bottle for your skin health
Dr. Johanna Gillbro is a Swedish skin researcher and founder of Skinome
Just like fresh food, Skinome’s products should be stored in the fridge
Saunas are an ancient tradition with an extraordinary story and a myriad of health benefits. Today, saunas are primarily used for wellness, but the first saunas in Finland were built for survival, not relaxation, and they were believed to bestow magical powers upon anyone who entered them.
By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: PixabaySome people love sitting in a little wooden box and sweating it out, while others absolutely loathe the idea. No matter which group you belong to, there is no denying it: saunas have become a worldwide phenomenon, and there are several proven health benefits of regularly spending time in a sauna.
The sauna that we most commonly use today has its origin in Finland, and the Finnish are still all about their saunas.
It is estimated that there are more than three million saunas in Finland. For a population of 5.5 million, people that
is quite astonishing. In fact, there are more saunas than cars in the country of Finland. In this Nordic country you will find saunas everywhere: in homes, offices, factories, gyms, hotels, ships and even in mines deep below the ground.
In today’s world, most of us use the sauna as a part of our wellness routine. However, that is far from their original use. In ancient times, saunas were built for survival. While no one knows exactly when or where the first sauna was built, it is commonly believed that the tradition originat-
ed somewhere in northern Europe around 2,000 BC. While the sauna is most commonly associated with Finland, it is still an important part of cultural life in countries such as Latvia, Russia and Estonia.
But let’s get back to why saunas were built in the first place – survival. If you have ever been to any of the Nordic countries, you know first-hand that the landscape can be unforgiving and brutal. The very first saunas were man-made caves that were closed with draped animal skins, with a fire burning inside beneath a pile of stones that water was poured over. This kept everyone inside the sauna nice and warm throughout the freezing cold and harsh winter nights.
The ancient saunas were not only used to keep people warm, but also functioned as kitchens, washrooms and hospitals.
In fact, many Finnish children were born in saunas. Over time, saunas became holy places – churches in nature – that were intertwined with spiritual beliefs. It was believed that saunas gave magical powers to those who entered them. The mystical sauna spirit was very much respected – and feared.
You might be chuckling a bit at the thought that the ancient people of Finland believed saunas had magical powers. But research has proven that saunas do indeed bestow magical powers upon those who enter them… in a way.
Science is now showing us how many benefits there are of visiting a sauna, both mentally and physically. A threedecades-long study by the University of Eastern Finland of more than 2,300 mid-
dle-aged Finnish men has made some astonishing findings.
The researchers found that using a sauna reduces the risk of sudden cardiac death, fatal coronary heart disease, fatal cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality. What’s also important to note is that the men who used the sauna four to seven times per week had significantly lower risk of fatal coronary heart disease compared to the men who only used the sauna once a week.
And perhaps the most important finding in the Finnish study was that the risk of all-cause mortality was 40 per cent lower among frequent sauna users. But how on earth does sitting in a heated wooden box for 20 minutes daily have such phenomenal benefits? Well, sitting in a sauna mimics the physiological response to
moderate to high intensity cardiovascular exercise, such as running or cycling, and we all know how good exercise is.
It is no wonder that the Finnish used to call the sauna a poor man’s pharmacy, which prompted the famous Finnish proverb: “if liquor, tar and sauna won’t help, an illness is fatal”.
Sitting in a sauna isn’t just beneficial for your physical health, it is equally good for your mental health. Saunas are wonderful for providing relief for the senses, and they help calm both the mind and body. In fact, many people sit in a sauna for the sole purpose of relaxing and allowing the stresses of the day to melt away. Research has furthermore shown that regular sauna visits increase sleep quality, and it is easier to fall asleep after a sauna. No wonder Finnish people love sweating it out at the end of a long day.
So, next time someone asks you “what about a sauna?”, say yes to the sauna’s magic – it might just be one of the best things you can do for your mind, body and soul.
Sauna, pronounced ‘sow’ (rhymes with wow) ‘nah’, is the only Finnish word that is used in everyday English, and the only Finnish word in the English dictionary. Sauna means ‘bath’ or ‘bath house’.
If you think webstores are impersonal, think again. Nordic-Cosmetics have used their e-commerce business QKoreanCosmetics.no to develop a whole new approach to selling cosmetics online – transforming their clients’ approach to skincare in the process.
By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen | Photos: Christian Trustrup“We sell wellbeing,” Robin Amundsen underlines, explaining what their business is about. He and his wife Alexandra Matei Amundsen are the founders of QKoreanCosmetics, an internet store that has exclusive distribution rights for the products from the K-Beauty brand ElishaCoy in the Nordic countries. For now, they only operate in Norway, but they plan to expand to Denmark and Sweden in 2023.
According to Amundsen, one of their main strengths as sellers is that they know their products so well. “Many webstores deal with a range of different brands of cosmetics and a very large number of products. We have only about 80 products in total and we know each of them very well.
That allows us to give each client personal advice and follow-ups,” he says.
“We do much more than just selling a product, we often create personalised skincare routines in order to achieve the desired results,” Matei Amundsen adds. Despite having more than 22,000 followers on Instagram, they maintain a very personal dialogue with their clients, both through content and direct messages. The entrepreneurial couple emphasise that this personal dialogue is the key to their successful customer relations.
Natural and sustainable beauty ElishaCoy is a 100 per cent natural South Korean brand. South Korea has established itself as a global leader in
cosmetics and the award-winning ElishaCoy is one of the brands behind this. ElishaCoy has spent 19 years developing their products.
“Their products are sustainable, and their vision is to preserve natural beauty true to the rules of the ‘3C Promises,’” says Matei Amundsen, referring to the three Cs that guide much of modern skincare development: clean, confident and creativity.
“Our common vision is to become a global beauty brand that respects various types of beauty by reinforcing natural beauty, which can fade due to pollution and fatigue,” she adds.
One of the most popular products both globally and in Norway is Tetraforce, a specially-designed product line to treat acne-prone skin. They use the power of four natural ingredients – tea tree, centella asiatica, camellia sinensis leaf extract and houttuynia cordata extract – to heal
and soothe irritated skin, and to control the sebum that often causes acne.
“On SoMe platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram, Tetraforce is becoming a phenomenon due to the amazing results these products have on troubled skin. We can see how fast it is expanding in Norway,” says Matei Amundsen.
Affordable and top-notch When deciding to launch QKoreanCosmetics in Norway, the couple quickly decided that they wanted to follow the same strategy as the producer has used in South Korea: reasonable prices that allow consumers to use the products over a long time period, to reap the benefits of consistency.
“The best cosmetics are not necessarily the most expensive ones. We’ve maintained that philosophy and it is working well for us. Choosing mild ingredients for your skin rather than what is popular, and supporting your own beauty – not anybody
else’s, is our advice to customers,” Matei Amundsen explains.
She continues that their future branding will maintain a vision of a beauty which is not derived from a stereotype, but is based on a personal approach with clients – ultimately helping them to find their personal skincare routine and embrace their own natural beauty.
QKoreanCosmetics has been approached by both clinics and pharmacies that are eager to include them in their product range, but so far, the couple has said no. “We want to preserve the exclusivity of our brand and how the products are being promoted,” says Amundsen. “What is important to us and what drives us is to maintain a personal approach, to find and sell skin care routines that really fit our clients,” he concludes.
www.qkoreancosmetics.no Instagram: @qkoreancosmetics.no Facebook: qkoreancosmetics.no
Scents create small transporting moments that colour our lives. Nobody understands this better than Finnish label SEES Company, whose luxury home and body products, made from natural essential oils and raw ingredients, have made those little moments its Mona Lisa
By Lena Hunter | Photos: Sanna Lehto and Riikka Kälkäjä“I was living in Japan when the Fukushima disaster happened. For the first time, I became very aware of the chemicals I was bringing into my home. I founded SEES because I wanted completely natural domestic products, crafted with elegance, luxury and sensuality,” says SEES Company founder, Elisa Koivumaa.
Every ingredient in SEES’ hand and body soaps, shampoos, conditioners, detergents, textile sprays and skin oils is uncompromisingly vegan, natural and sustainably sourced. The trailblazing brand is also one of the first to include Forest Microbes in its products – a new Finnish innovation that helps to restore healthy biodiversity in our urban homes.
Enrich the everyday “When we’re developing a product, our starting point is how it will make you feel,” says Koivumaa. “Aromatherapy has the power to lift your mood and inspire calm –why not enrich as many of your daily moments as possible? The essential oil blends are strong, modern, unisex – like
pine, cedar and citrus. Kids love them, but so will your father-in-law.”
SEES Company’s collection has already turned heads, with Helsinki’s sophisticated new Café Savoy specifically requesting the label for its opening. Meanwhile, the Cedar and Orange Hand Wash No 1 has an ardent word-of-mouth following: “Some people have told me things like ‘it smells so good that I always hide if from my husband’,” laughs Koivumaa.
While the fragrances elevate the mind, SEES’ Finnish-design forms appease the eye. The aroma diffuser is a notable example of the brand’s elegant visual language: the simple disc of white stone diffuses drops of essential oil without water or electricity. Meanwhile, the expressive label artwork, designed by a Finnish graphic artist, is hand-drawn with blue ink on paper before being digitised and wrapped around the dark, glossy bottles.
New for 2023 is the hotel range of shampoo, conditioner, body and hand wash,
and body lotion, with the same enchanting scents and attention to design as the core products. “The range is refillable, so hotels can move away from tiny plastic bottles and towards a more conscious form of luxury,” says Koivumaa. “We strive for salon quality. We want guests to think ‘if they have SEES, I don’t need to bring my own’.”
Hotel and wholesale enquiries: info@seescompany.fi
www.seescompany.fi Instagram: @seescompany Facebook: seescompany
The unique Hotel Luppo occupies old factory buildings by the Loimijoki River in the centre of Forssa, a town close to two beautiful national parks. The wellness hotel strikes the perfect balance between breathtaking nature and vibrant culture.
By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: Hyvinvointihotelli Luppo
Though Hotel Luppo is in a bustling town, well serviced by roads and within easy reach of the airport, it’s an oasis of peace and quiet. The buildings themselves are almost silent and the moment you enter, a feeling of tranquility and stillness comes over you. This is the feeling at the heart of this special wellness hotel.
“We want to provide visitors from out of town with a beautiful and peaceful place to stay, and to attract people from all over Scandinavia and the world,” says the hotel’s co-owner Tarja Jaakkola, who also works as a GreenCoach and Nature Teacher.
Hotel Luppo’s other co-owner, Minna Penttilä, is a physiotherapist. Together they have crafted a wellness offering that has put Forssa on the map. Their wellness centre is popular in the local
community, and many take part in their nature learning courses. In addition, the hotel offers guests from further afield the opportunity to explore Forssa in combination with wellness treatments and educational courses. Much of the nature coaching takes place in the two national parks nearby, as learning about nature in nature is part of the essence of Luppo’s green courses.
At Hotel Luppo, the wellbeing of each individual guest is central. The hotel, which was originally a wellness centre, shares its buildings with the Kutomo Physiotherapy and Exercise Centre, and the Oiva Medical Centre – both of which belong to the Luppo family. Alongside bespoke wellness packages, guests can explore the surrounding nature, take part in courses that focus on nature and wellbeing, and explore the culture in and around Forssa.
“We feel that many people need a little time out to focus on self-care and wellness,” Tarja and Minna agree. Here, they’ve created a breathing space where you can truly relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself – and learn something new about nature and the world around you in the process.
www.hotelliluppo.fi Instagram: @HyvinvointihotelliForssanLuppo
Address: Hyvinvointihotelli Luppo Kutomonkuja 2 A 1 (3 krs.) 30100 Forssa
In an old wooden house, in the middle of the idyllic Norwegian town of Drøbak, you’ll find a charming boutique: the children’s clothing shop Johanna og Arne, the heart of which beats for beautiful quality and personalised service.
By
“We are a niche store with no chain affiliation. We have a large selection of clothes and accessories for kids from newborns up to ten-year olds, as well as a small selection of sandals, slippers and bathing shoes for the little ones. Here, you will find that little extra that you will not find anywhere else,” says
Johanna og Arne’s owner, Camilla Norstrøm Hiemeyer.
The store is a labour of love, right down to the name itself, which is inspired by Hiemeyer’s own family. “My grandparents
Johanna and Arne were from Drøbak.
I’ve always had a close relationship with
them, so it was natural for me to name the store after them,” she explains.
At Johanna og Arne, you’ll find inspiration and advice to pick the perfect gift, whether it is for a baby shower, baptism, birthday, new mother, grandparents or great-grandparents. “We’ve run through a fair few metres of gift wrap since the opening day in November, 2019! Our store has daily visits from grandparents,” Hiemeyer says with a smile. “I’m so grateful for the reception Johanna og Arne has received.”
Quality clothing from home and abroad Johanna og Arne is one of the few retailers in Norway where you can find the high-quality Spanish brand PAZ Rodriguez, known for its adorable baby and children’s clothes in organic cotton and superfine merino wool.
The Swedish brand LIVLY, which many associate with the cute hooded bunny-ear suits, is one of the store’s most popular. The exclusive clothing brand for children and babies uses high-quality, hand-picked Pima cotton – a silkysmooth, natural and durable fibre, renowned for retaining its softness.
Another favourite is MarMar Copenhagen – a Danish children’s clothing brand with a luxurious, timeless and functional look. As such, the pieces are easy to match and suit both everyday life and
special occasions. “This year, MarMar Copenhagen’s summer collection consists of beautiful swimwear and accessories in all sizes,” says Camilla. “Their newborn range is one of our bestsellers, not only because of the beautiful design, but because its cotton and modal blend has a wonderful silky quality.”
The Norwegian Lillelam is a brand renowned for its high-quality, 100 per cent merino-wool kids clothing. “Many people are familiar with the Little Lamb suit with matching hat, slippers and mittens. It’s a classic design and a bestseller all year round,” says Hiemeyer.
From further afield, Johanna og Arne stock the cult French favourite Lacoste, and the Portuguese design label Wedoble, which releases a highly-anticipated merino and cashmere baby series every autumn. “What characterises their products is quality, comfort and well-being. They are famous for their sophisticated and modern design,” says Hiemeyer. “We also carry the beloved Spanish brands Martin Aranda, known for its adorable designs, and Mayoral, which has a wide range of affordable, high-quality, smart-design pieces.”
Johanna og Arne even has its own jewellery collection. “It’s a collaboration with local jewellery designer Goldsmith Norén. The collection is created by the jeweller Drøbaksjenta Lene, who makes
each piece from scratch – so each one is unique. They are beautiful, with classic lines and a clean expression. But the collection has a rustic appeal, too, with heart pendants, chains and gorgeous bracelets from baby-size up to big boys and girls. They are the perfect gift,” says Hiemeyer.
And there’s plenty more to discover on Johanna og Arne’s shelves: Huttelihut’s beautiful animal-ear hats; Norwegian Vilje & Ve’s delicious wool and bamboo collection; the princess-wear of DOLLY by Le Petit Tom; and the classic tartan, ruffles, bows and buttons of Patachou, to name just a fraction of its leading brands.
Shop online at your leisure Johanna og Arne is open every day, all year round, and is one of many high-quality boutiques to make up the cosy shopping scene in Drøbak, just a 40-minute drive from Oslo. Those who prefer to browse from the comfort of their own home can shop round the clock at Johanna og Arne’s online store. Purchases are shipped immediately, while Click and Collect is available every day in store.
Visit the boutique: Torggata 2, 1440 Drøbak Tel: 004791860302
www.johannaogarne.no Instagram: @johannaogarne Facebook: JohannaogArne
Beer consumers are notoriously curious, brewers love to experiment, and beer trends come and go. What’s next? Here are my predictions for the coming year in beer.
I think this will be the year when classics rule and cool hipsters will forget about over-hopped and hazy IPAs for a moment. More humble, trustworthy beers such as Dark Mild and Brown Ale have already made a return and I think this positive trend will continue. Let’s hope for more well-rounded, modest beers that bring comfort, like British ales and German lagers.
Many brewers do love to experiment though, so there will undoubtedly still be heaps of hybrid beers, pastry stouts and ice-cream sours to try, just to keep things exciting. Dare to be different, some might say. Yes, absolutely; but also dare to brew the same classic style over and over again until it’s bloody perfect! This dedication impresses me more than
brewing with unexpected ingredients and techniques.
I also believe we’ll see a continuous growth of sessionable beers. I’m already a fan of lower-alcohol options such as table beer for more moderate drinking. I’m also a lager girl and root for craft breweries to make stunningly crisp, refreshing and tasty lagers, without upping the alcohol too much. Oh, perhaps this will finally be the year of dark lagers? Fingers crossed!
Looking at the bigger picture, beer will likely be brewed for the good, for the local community, and for the planet. Sustainability is already key and will remain in focus, in production as well as advertising. Breweries will continue to strive for diversity and inclusion, as they should, and I think we’ll see even more examples of beer for charitable causes.
What do you think will happen in the beer world in 2023?
It’s hard to change a habit. It’s even harder when we can’t see what’s in it for us and receive no instant gratification for doing so. Our shopping habits are one such example.
Today, we overconsume cheap fashion from chains that make promises about sustainability and fail to execute. The fast-fashion industry is built on producing clothes quickly to appease trends. They’re cheap in the store because someone else pays the price. The ‘someone else’ is the seamstress (they’re most often women) and the planet.
January is a month when we set new goals for the coming year. We might want to lose weight, save money, or learn how to make sourdough. This year, I challenge you to stop buying fast fashion. But we need more people to do the same. The industry is pol-
luting the water and taking advantage of women and men in low-wage countries with either no or very few options.
I stopped buying fast fashion some years ago. The simplest approach was to ban myself from buying clothes from fast-fashion chains. I would recommend taking a month where you don’t buy any clothes at all in January. If you already know of some situations coming up in which you might want to buy something new, plan for them now. Take a trip to your wardrobe, try everything on, see what sparks joy and wear it! For inspiration on how to wear the clothes you already own, Pinterest is a great source.
Thank you for saving the planet – and probably some money too.
By Malin Norman
Rasmus Kofoed’s career reached a crescendo in 2022, when his Copenhagen restaurant, Geranium, was awarded the global top spot at the annual World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards. We caught up with the visionary Danish chef to talk winning accolades, meat-free fine dining, and the year ahead.
By Tina Nielsen | Photos: Claes Bech-PoulsenIt’s been quite the year for Rasmus Kofoed. Speaking at the end of 2022, the chef and co-owner of Copenhagen restaurant Geranium is still buzzing from reaching the summit of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants last summer. “It has been an amazing year,” he says. “A lot of things are constantly happening in my life. I got married last year and the climb to the number one spot was amazing to achieve with the team.”
Inevitably, with success comes pressure and scrutiny. If Geranium was busy before topping the 50 Best, it reached another level afterwards. “It has been quite busy because of all the attention and extra pressure from guests and the booking system,” he says. “But I’d rather have that than the opposite.”
Kofoed is unrivalled as the world’s most decorated chef. He has a clean sweep of bronze, silver and gold medals as a competitor in Bocuse d’Or, the prestigious international culinary competition that takes place amidst a stadium-like fervour in Lyon every other year, as well as several victories as a coach. He helped Hungary win the European edition in 2016, and in 2019 took Denmark all the way when Kenneth Toft-Hansen won the global event.
“The Bocuse d’Or journey was crazy and so inspiring,” he reflects. “It is the base of everything I do. It helped me to develop as a chef, gain confidence, focus my work. It created a lot of things which have shaped how we run Geranium.”
Kofoed opened the second iteration of Geranium in its current location, Denmark’s national football stadium Parken, with his long-time friend and collaborator Søren Ledet in 2010.
Looking back to those early days, he says they were modest in their ambitions
when they were asked to write them down as part of the process to move into the premises.
“We really pushed the limit by saying we would work to get two Michelin stars and hopefully be number 20 in the world. We thought this would be realistic if we really did our best,” he says. In 2016, Geranium became the first restaurant in Denmark to be granted three Michelin stars – the highest award by the little red book.
Kofoed has often spoken of his own almost-vegetarian lifestyle, and over the years, Geranium has followed – becoming a culinary vanguard of exceptional fine-dining, sans meat.
“It has been a natural progression and it reflects the way I like to eat and live my life. I was enjoying a few meat dishes ten years ago, but now I just don’t need it in my life,” he says. “There are so many other great things and I also believe it is healthier to eat more vegetables and a
little fish sometimes. I feel great, full of energy and I am almost 50, so I guess it works for me.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, this exploration of meat-free cooking resulted in Angelika, a vegetarian pop-up restaurant that is now closed, but one he dreams of reviving as a permanent concept. “We still do it as a pop-up. We recently did one at a farm,” he says. “One day I will open one permanently, but I have a lot of things going on in my life right now. I have my wife, my three kids, my restaurant, my restaurant family and my real family. It would be egocentric to open another restaurant, because it would demand focus and time from me that I would have to take away from others.”
With the pandemic over and an eye on the future, Kofoed went ahead and removed all meat from the Geranium menu at the start of 2022. It was part of a grander overhaul that also did away with all the signature dishes on the menu.
Abstract of brown crab.
“We came up with a totally new menu and taking meat off gave me more freedom. I felt I could work straight from my heart. Before, it had to fit in the menu all the time – I knew we had to have the meat dishes here, the hake dish here, the razor clams there,” he says.
Kofoed is hoping he can show the way forward in a country of ardent carnivores. “We really would love the Danes to eat less meat than what we do now – more like what we used to do in the ‘50s, when you would eat meat once a week and eat more vegetables. Today, that’s not the case. Sadly, we eat the completely wrong way now.”
For 2023, Kofoed has no great plans to change, but will focus on continuing the
evolution that started last year. “We have changed a lot, so I don’t want to stretch the team too much by changing a lot of other things,” he said.
Anybody who follows Kofoed on social media knows that one of his passions in life is running – his half marathon PB stands at a cool one hour, 25 minutes, 50 seconds – and on a personal level, he would like to improve on that in the new year. “After a run, when the blood is still pumping, I feel like I am flying,” he says. “Sometimes life can be ordinary because it has to be. I take my kids to school, I prepare their breakfast. When you have a good run, you get ideas, you see things differently. When your heart is beating and you are just there with your body and mind and close to nature, it is an amazing feeling.”
It also provides a nice break away from the madness of the success he has lived, though there seems to be little risk of him getting carried away. “Of course, I am proud. It’s very special. But achieving the number one spot and the three Michelin stars is not something I think so much about. What makes me feel proud is when I see what we created in a room that was dead. In a grey, boring, concrete room we created colours and energy and life with the staff that has been with us for so long,” he says.
“I can do great things by myself but it is not the same as when you work with other people. It is a different energy, and that is really amazing, I have great people here who I admire and I am so happy about that, it is so amazing that we created this magical place in 12 years.”
Perched on the forested banks of Finland’s vast Lake Saimaa is a restorative retreat unlike any other. Hosted in remote lodgings couched in stunning Nordic wilderness, Utula Nature’s flexible programme of wellness activities for body and mind is a rare opportunity for a total reset.
By Lena Hunter | Photos: Utula Nature
“Our retreat experience is created to slow you down and give you space to reflect, by bringing you to the present moment and reconnecting you to your body,” says Utula Nature’s founder Maiju Vohlonen. A yin yoga teacher, Nature Therapy guide and Logotherapy Instructor, Vohlonen has considerable experience in therapeutic practices.
At Utula Nature, she and her partner, yoga and breathwork instructor Paolo Zambeze, curate and deliver an all-inclusive weekly programme, suitable for all levels, of mindful movement, yin yoga, restful meditation, reflective writing and
sharing. The pair are warm hosts, while the comfortable lodgings and natural beauty of the forest and lakeside are irresistibly recuperative.
The woodland haven in Ruokolahti hosts a maximum of ten guests at once, to ensure it retains its sense of space. Silence is integrated into the concept of the retreat, with silent lodgings, breakfasts and ‘Mindful Mondays’, in which guests are invited to experience a whole day of silence.
“Cutting down on stimuli is a powerful way to bring your focus into yourself,
hear your own thoughts, and to feel your feelings and body. Once you’re in silence, you realise how liberating the right not to engage is – to not have to ‘be’ for each other,” explains Vohlonen. Those yearning for a deeper experience can also take part in a digital detox and leave their devices in the care of the hosts for the duration of their stay.
Every aspect of the retreat can be tailored. It can be made fully silent, for example, and the duration can be adapted from three days to three weeks, as preferred.
“You’re welcome just as you are. All the group activities are optional. Although we share the physical spaces, classes and maybe even our experiences in a sharing circle, Utula is more of an individual journey. That’s one reason why silence is essential. You can also come here simply to enjoy downtime, Finnish nature and soulful, nourishing food in a supported and relaxed environment,” says the couple.
The retreat’s nearest city, Imatra, is less than three hours by train from Helsinki Airport, and there is plenty of Finnish nature to soak up on the journey. With the
2023 retreat season running from 16 May until 17 September, nights by the lakeside are likely to be long and light. “We have a yoga tent on private beach, wooden buildings, hammocks, forest shower and a wood-lit sauna. The way here leads you down beautiful forest roads, and the last three kilometres is a dirt road that leads deep into the forest, before suddenly opening onto a 180-degree panoramic view of Lake Saimaa,” says Zambeze. “It’s a very impactful transition. It feels like you’re crossing a threshold into a cocoon.”
But despite nesting in the heart of one of Finland’s most storied archipelagos and
comprising harmonious, Nordic-inspired architecture, the essence of Utula Nature is cross-cultural. “I’m Finnish, but Paolo is half-Maltese, half-British, and we operate in Finnish and English,” says Vohlonen. “There’s a warmth and sensuality to Utula. There’s tasty food, gentle saunas, the beauty of the wilderness… It’s a space to return to your senses. I’ve been coming to this beach since I was a child, and I always knew it was special. Here, you really feel nurtured by nature.”
www.utulanature.com Instagram: @utulanature Facebook: Utula Nature
North Karelia is truly a hidden gem. But despite it only being known only to a few savvy visitors, it has a huge amount to offer, from nature to excellent hospitality and unique culture.
By Philip Denvir | Photos: Visit KeraliaAnna Härkönen, VisitKarelia’s account manager, is first-generation Finnish. She explains just what makes North Karelia so special: “Karelia is a meeting point of eastern and Nordic cultures. The food, music, art and even the mythology have been rooted in the history of this area for centuries. The Finnish national epic Kalevala also has its origins here. The poetry sings of the mystique of the forests and hills.”
Nature’s embrace
North Karelia is a nature lover’s dream, with no less than four national parks full of hiking and biking trails, rapids, ski slopes, snow-shoeing trails and husky safaris in the winter months. There are also nature walks, fish cookouts and wildlife spotting. Visitors can even rent a lake to canoe and fish.
Among the unmissable excursions in North Karelia is Musta Mäntyjärvi lake. It’s primarily a fishing destination, but the area is also ideal for camping, canoeing, hiking in the nearby forests and foraging for wild berries and mushrooms. It is also on the doorstep of the Patvinsuo national park.
Hikers, ramblers and mountain bikers can also enjoy the Karhunpolku system
of trails, in the pristine Lieksa area. The trails follow the eastern border along the shores of kayaking routes, and connect to the Karelian Circuit which runs through the wilderness of the Patvinsuo national park.
The Visit Karelia board isn’t interested in mass tourism, but encourages visitors to come and appreciate the countryside in peace and quiet. Business advisor Mari Mustonen explains: “Everything we do is environmentally sustainable and aimed at letting our guests breathe. They can spend a day in the forest or on a lake, or a week camping and watching wildlife such as elk, lynx, brown bears and golden eagles.”
“The forests and lakes in our region offer guests a wide variety of accommodation for a rural break. There’s everything from remote log cabins to impressive country houses. Finland’s Lakeland is perfect for getting away from it all and relaxing by the water, enjoying a sauna or living like the locals,” she adds.
Sauna is a national institution in Finland, with an estimated three million saunas serving a population of just 5.5 million people. Visitors to North Karelia can enjoy a private woodfire sauna complete with birch leaves to get the skin tingling, followed by a refreshing plunge in the lake. In winter, those feeling brave can take an invigorating dip in an ice hole in the lake, or just make snow angels to cool off. VisitKarelia even offers sauna tours.
Though Finns are famously shy, Karelians buck the trend. Whether you’re an old friend or a new visitor, they are renowned for their tradition of extending hospitality to all. There is even a saying that ‘you can get bread and sauna at anyone’s door.’
Karelian cuisine is traditional, yet totally unique, as it is seasonal and must be fresh – because there was no alternative in the past. Visitors are guaranteed the highest quality through the ‘Karelia à la Carte’ scheme, whereby many restaurants and country inns promise a combination of the best aspects of traditional cuisine that take full advantage of seasonal ingredients, but with a more modern taste and preparation.
A particular must-try is the moreish Karelian pastry. These slipper-shaped rye flour savories are usually stuffed with rice or mashed potato and served warm
with egg butter. Loved by Finns all over the country, they are enjoyed as a snack, breakfast or side dish.
For those who enjoy a drop of the strong stuff, Hermanni Winery offers a range of wines, liqueurs and spirits brewed from sustainably sourced Finnish berries. In the summer, visitors can enjoy their drinks at the Winetower in Ilomantsi.
“The local cuisine is a crossover and uses ingredients from the forests or lakes. In the past, everything had to be seasonal, and we are returning to that again. It means an abundance of fresh herbs, berries, mushrooms and fish can go directly from nature to the table,” says Härkönen.
Whether visiting North Karelia for a mini-break or a long holiday, tourists
can be assured of a warm welcome and great new experiences. “We offer a unique and inspirational destination. The locals are always happy to help and share food, stories, music and laughter. North Karelian hospitality means you don’t even need a common language, although most locals know English. We really have something special to offer our visitors,” concludes Mustonen.
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This little hidden gem has amassed a loyal visitor base purely through word of mouth. Located in the countryside idyll of the South Karelia region of Finland, the old railway station was neglected and deserted, until a couple set out on an ambitious mission to rescue it – and turned it into a thriving small community, along with a boutique B&B, café and shop.
By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Pulsa Station
In 2014, Petra and Lasse Karjalainen set out on a mission: to save the run-down and deserted old railway station of Pulsa, located around 20 kilometres from the city of Lappeenranta. The railway station has a long and colourful history. In the 1870s, due to its proximity to Lappeenranta, Pulsa was a very busy transport hub for travellers journeying between Helsinki and St. Petersburg. The railway connection in Pulsa was opened in 1870 – and the remote village became instrumental in the rapid development of the industrial world.
“By the standards of the time, you could travel to the other side of Europe quickly by train, and at the end of the 19th centu-
ry and the beginning of the 20th century, Pulsa was in its heyday. Several famous paintings were painted here, such as the well-known Golden Age painting Mother by artist Elin Danielson-Gambogi, whose
sister lived at Pulsa Station,” Petra Karjalainen explains.
The railway station comprises 20 buildings, including seven apartments that used to house the station workers. The buildings have had many functions throughout the years. At one point, they served as a rehabilitation residence for alcoholics. For many years, the station buildings stood uninhabited, but they were still in fairly good condition. “The people of the region no longer needed Pulsa’s station village, but to us, it seemed like the village needed them,” Petra says with a smile. Today, the station buildings have been lovingly restored to their former glory, and Petra and Lasse have turned them into a shop, café and boutique B&B.
And so began a seemingly endless renovation project, which is purely a labour of love. “We are not doing this to make a profit. All the money we make goes into
maintaining the village,” says Petra. She is a Swiss interior designer by trade and Lasse is originally from Pulsa. As a child, he travelled to school with the local train from Pulsa station.
A countryside getaway in a boutique B&B
The station village includes the main station building, which is also home to two shops, a café and bakery. “Our specialty is a three-cheese savoury pie, which is an old recipe that has been passed down to me from my mother. Our caramel lingonberry cake is an all-time favourite among visitors, and people travel all the way from Helsinki to try it,” Petra says.
In addition, there are a number of old railway workers’ apartments equipped with modern amenities, saunas, cellars and storage buildings. The boutique B&B offers guests self-catered accommodation from the beginning of May to the end of October each year – except for the Pumpmaster’s house, which is available to rent throughout the year, as are the station café and shop.
Petra has put her interior design skills to good use, and the uniquely decorated houses all have their own look and feel. They are a playful mixture between old and modern design. “I want to offer guests a visual experience, with hints of modernism and romanticism dotted
throughout. Each accommodation has its own look and feel,” she explains.
Pulsa station’s lifestyle shop is located in the outdoor library building. The red, former brick building is also beautiful on the inside, and the shop offers a selection of decorative items, furniture, textiles, kitchen accessories as well as gift items.
Each year, Pulsa Station attracts some 40,000 visitors, and Petra is very proud of that achievement. “Due to our remote location, Pulsa is not exactly the type of place you would come to, unless you
meant to come here. Many people who live in Lappeenranta think of Pulsa Station as their living room. It’s a cosy place to come and spend some time, enjoy the views and buy things from our shop and café. We’re very proud that we have managed to give Pulsa Station a new lease of life, as it deserves,” she concludes.
www.pulsanasema.fi Instagram: @pulsanasema Facebook: Pulsan Asema www.gosaimaa.com www.visitlappeenranta.fi
Invented and designed in Finland by Pasi Kauppinen, the co-owner of eLyly and the family-owned and operated travel destination, Bear Manor, the patented eLyly snow scooter was conceived to offer travellers a new way to enjoy winter tourism. “There hadn’t been any new innovation for years,” says Minna Kauppinen, chief marketing officer of eLyly. “Not everyone wants to go skiing or snowshoeing. We’ve been moving in a more ecological direction. We wanted something that allowed visitors to see the region in a completely new, fun and environmentally-friendly way.”
The eLyly snow scooter is the first scooter of its kind in the world. It can be used for all kinds of activities from touring to maintaining walking and cycling routes, or commuting to work. It can travel up to 25 kilometres per hour and has a distance range of some 20 kilometres. It charges quickly and efficiently from empty to full in two hours, and can be charged using a regular electric socket. The eLyly snow scooter is specifically designed for Arctic conditions. No driving licence or insurance is required to use the snow scooter, and it is light to transport and compact to store.
Explore the outer reaches ‘Lyly’ is the Finnish word for a long, wooden ski that was originally used for sliding alongside one shorter kicking ski. The lyly offered an innovative way to move across snow quickly and silently and was especially useful when hunting. The team at Bear Manor had the idea of creating a new
form of the lyly for a different purpose. “These days, we had another kind of experience in mind – the ability to view pure nature in silence,” explains Kauppinen.
The eLyly snow scooter is made from sustainable wood and the small electric motor allows you to quietly glide through snow. As Kauppinen explains, if you wish to explore beyond your range on foot, hear the squeak and creak of packed snow under your boots, and see tree branches silently lean and bend under their white blankets, the eLyly snow scooter is the innovation for you. The visual design and finishing touches on the scooter were created by Finnish designer Harri Koskinen. He is originally from the northern part of central Finland, the same birthplace as eLyly.
A number of partners in Finland already use the eLyly snow scooter in their business and with customers. These include Sport Corner Ylläs, a sporting goods store that rents the scooters to the public. Elsewhere, the Arctic Snow Hotel in Rovaniemi has them available for guests. Xwander Nordic Tourism and Lakeland GTE outdoor company also use the snow scooters in their winter safaris and travel experiences in both Finland and Norway.
The Kauppinens feel the eLyly snow scooter is a distinctly Finnish product. “The idea for the snow scooter and its research and design are all Finnish. The actual vehicle is made in Finland. Most of the parts are created for us specifically
from Finnish subcontractors. The degree of Finnishness is very high, approaching 100 per cent. It also has a strong link to Finnish nature,” they say.
For now, eLyly sells their snow scooter directly to companies and private customers from their online shop. In the future, they plan to offer their product in design stores and showrooms around the world. This will give more people the chance to experience winter destinations the fun, peaceful and eco-friendly eLyly way.
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Partners: www.sportcorneryllas.fi/en www.arcticsnowhotel.fi www.xwander.fi www.lakelandgte.fi/en www.bearmanor.fi
2023 travel predictions are pointing to an upward trend in sustainable and conscious holidaying, and with more wilderness, rural and second-city destinations stepping into the limelight, it’s Sweden’s time to shine. January is a great time to explore the country’s vast number of smaller towns and cultural hubs, many of which are surrounded by outstanding eco-lodges, and offer easier access to magical forests, lakes and coastlines that take on a special character in the depths of winter.
By Lena HunterSo, in this special theme, we’ve gathered ten of Sweden’s most enriching offbeat holiday spots that sidestep citybreak conventions – but still serve up a surprising cocktail of art, architecture, history, unforgettable dining experiences and vibrant local energy.
We’ll introduce you to three refreshing breaks on the east-coast – a stretch dotted with historical villages but renowned its modern, airy and lively metropolises. Then we’re sweeping down to three more must-visits in the extreme south, where the High Coast – arguably the most idyllic archipelago in the country – lies. Plus, we visit two south-west coastal towns, where you’ll find vineyards, cycling trails, pilgrim routes and historical bathing
spots, and two picturesque escapes on the banks of the colossal Lake Vänern in the heart of the country.
Dare to be different. Fantastic as they are, doesn’t everyone go to Stockholm, Malmö and Gothenburg?
www.visitsweden.com
By Malin Norman | Photos: Visit Trollhättan-Vänersborg
Water has always been central to both Trollhättan and Vänersborg. In the case of the latter, an old marketplace, the waterway was key to the shipping and collection of iron found throughout the county. The long beaches around Vänern, Sweden’s largest lake and technically an inland sea, made it beneficial place from both agricultural and safety perspectives. Vänersborg got its town privileges in 1644, and the lake is crucial for its role as a meeting point and trading hub. Today, it’s a regional capital
boasting generous nature and wildlife, and is sometimes described as a miniature Sweden.
In Trollhättan, it was the narrow water passages of the river Göta Älv that led to the ground-breaking discovery that put the town on the map. These passages caused more than a few headaches, as goods had to be reloaded to continue transportation on land. Then in 1800, after a range of different ideas and more than a few failed attempts, the problem was
solved when the first sluice in Trollhättan was completed. The creation was dubbed the world’s eighth wonder and immediately turned Trollhättan into a must-visit town for a combination of technical enlightenment and a romantic setting.
“Every day at three o’clock in the summer months, the floodgates open and 300,000 litres of water per second are released. It’s quite spectacular,” says Maria Engström Weber, CEO of Visit Trollhättan-Vänersborg. “People come here to experience this alone.”
The Göta Älv pilgrimage is a 140-kilometre trail of sights and insights. “It’s an internal and external journey that you
complete on your own or together with others,” says Engström-Weber. In three stages, the pilgrimage combines nature
with history. Each of the stages – Gothenburg-Lödöse, Lödöse-Hålanda and Lödöse-Vänersborg – has its own character, and you can find your favourite or do all three.
Route Trollskogen is the longest stretch, at 22 kilometres from Utby to Trollhättan, through the enchanting deep forest and up and down the steep hills. You will pass Åkerström Nature Reserve with some of the best views on the route, especially around sunset. Just don’t forget to bring a packed lunch along on this little adventure.
Kärleksstigen (‘the love path’) is the last stretch of the Göta Älv pilgrimage, from Trollhättan bridge to Dalbobron in Vänersborg. It passes the grave of Karl, an almost four-kilometre-long water channel built so that ships could avoid the falls at Vargön. When you reach Vänersborg, enjoy a well-deserved rest, and remember to fill up on energy if you plan to continue the pilgrimage towards Norway.
Lake Vänern is one of Europe’s largest lakes, offering heaps of activities regardless of season and weather. It’s a fishing paradise, naturally, and has lots of world-class hiking and cycling routes, as well as fantastic cultural experiences. Lake Vänern Grand Tour is a nature tourism initiative aimed to connect Vänern as a destination, with various activities on and around the lake. The bike route passes beautiful beaches and nature phenomena such as the eco-parks
Halleberg and Hunneberg, and other activities including paddling, boat tours and hiking are available too.
The Halleberg and Hunneberg ecoparks have recently been named Sweden’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, which means that the geology and landscape is deemed unique and of international significance. The area has 15 varied hiking trails in untouched nature, with magnificent views of Lake Vänern, as well as fairytale wilderness. Along the route, you will find great spots for having a barbeque or a picnic.
“Being named Sweden’s first UNESCO Global Geopark is very exciting,” says Engström-Weber. “We will continue to focus on nature, protect our mountains and work sustainably. And Lake Vänern will continue to offer something for all the senses, all year round: nature, culture, food and activities that can fill you with joy.”
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UNESCO Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development. www.unesco.org
Sandviken, in Gävleborg county just north of Stockholm, made its name as a technological powerhouse. For over a century, the engineering company Sandvik has operated out of the small east-coast town, and Microsoft recently built the world’s most sustainable data centre here. Residents, however, believe it has untapped tourism appeal.
By Xander Brett | Photos: Visit Sandviken
In 2018, Britney Spears came to Sandviken to play a nineteen-song set at the Göransson Arena. For a brief moment, the 23,000-strong settlement, famous for technology, became a cultural destination. Now, five years on, many believe that it should still be in the guidebooks.
Eva Hofstrand, Sandviken’s head of tourism, describes the town in three words: close, accessible and sustainable. Located to the west of the city of Gävle, which is under 200 kilometres from Stockholm, the town lies away from the sea, surrounded by cycling and hiking trails. Less than half an hour from Sandviken town centre is the Kungsberget ski destination, with 3,500 beds.
There is also much to discover historically, and the nearby visitor areas Högbo and Gysinge Bruk offer dining and ac-
commodation on site. Högbo Bruk, says Hofstrand, even includes a fragrance design centre, where beauty products are created from materials from the surrounding landscape.
Cultural attractions include the Rosenlöf Printing Museum, founded in 1890, and the unique chance to visit an axe forge in the nearby village of Storvik. Storvik is a 15-minute drive from Sandviken, and you can buy hand-crafted axes to take away with you… provided, of course, you leave them out of your hand-luggage on the flight home!
Sandviken is an hour-and-a-half drive north from Arlanda airport, past the city of Uppsala. On arrival, Hofstrand says her favourite weekend involves wild camping in the town’s surrounding nature. “My family keeps a roof tent on
top of the car,” she explains. “But, if you don’t want to pitch wild, you can take a spot at Årunda Strandbad, a campsite about 15 kilometres south of Sandviken. Årsunda sits on the shores of Lake Storsjön, known locally as Sandviken Riviera.” But the bustling French Riviera this is not. Instead, its peaceful atmosphere and quiet shores are perfect for winding down on a quiet afternoon.
www.sandviken.se/turism
Idyllically located next to the largest lake in Sweden, the charming town of Kristinehamn is gearing up for an exciting new year. Here, a combination of stunning nature, exciting activities and local culture and cuisine make for an unforgettable experience. running regularly between the bigger islands during summer. You can also rent a boat or travel here with your own boat and anchor in our popular guest marina, where people gather for barbecues and other social events.”
By Malin Norman | Photos: Visit Kristinehamn
Lake Vänern consists of 5,650 square kilometres of freshwater. In fact, it holds the title of third-largest lake in Europe, houses an archipelago of 22,000 islands, and provides ample space for an abundance of water activities – perfect for curious visitors to Kristinehamn.
“There’s so much space to roam and many hidden spots to be discovered. It’s easy to find your sense of freedom, your spot, your own island far away from other people, right here,” says Linnéa Palmqvist, tourism and destination developer at Visit Kristinehamn. “There are lots of ways to explore the lake. There are, for instance, a number of boat tours
Another way to discover the archipelago is to try a kayak tour, around the three islands Vålön, Kalvön and Sibberön, for instance. “I’ve heard of people paddling north of Vålön and meeting moose en route, which must have been quite an experience,” recounts Palmqvist with a smile. “During the winter months, Lake Vänern is amazing to explore on cross-country skates.”
In 2022, the new cycling trail Lake Vänern Grand Tour was inaugurated. Sweden’s sixth national cycling trail covers 630 kilometres around the lake. The new route is divided into four parts, with lots of cosy cafés and restaurants with White Guide status, lovely beaches and swimming spots by the cliffs, and stop-off destinations brimming with history along the way. The new trail is just as exciting for locals as it is for visitors from afar.
“We are excited that Lake Vänern Grand Tour is finally ready. This has been in the works for a long time, and it’s been a passion project for everyone involved,” says Palmqvist. “The trail provides beautiful views of the lake and opens up for exploring places off the beaten path that were previously hard to reach. It guarantees an incredible cycling and hiking experience.”
The new cycling trail is a great addition to numerous existing routes; for instance, the Union trail that ends in Norway, perfect for long hikes and picturesque cycling trips. In Kristinehamn, five mountain bike trails, quality checked by Biking Värmland, serve as a supplement for those who prefer a speedy challenge.
Many visitors are attracted by the lake and the closeness to nature, but Kristinehamn also has a fantastic heritage and oozes small-town charm. A stroll around the historic buildings in the city centre is a must, as is popping into one of the town’s charming small boutiques, ranging from pottery to interior design and retro fashion. Or, devour a delicious meal at a top-rated restaurant.
The town has no shortage of worldclass culinary experiences. Local produce, ranging from wild meat to locally brewed beer, is widely offered by the
town’s restaurants. Three restaurants are currently top-ranked on TripAdvisor and Kristinehamn hosts the annual gastronomic festival Smaka på Värmland (‘Taste Värmland’) in September.
Kristinehamn is also home to an exciting cultural scene. Did you know that one of the world’s largest Picasso sculptures is located here? Thanks to local artist Bengt Olsson, the sculpture found its way to Kristinehamn and now proudly overlooks Vålösundet. In fact, this is the town’s most popular destination for visitors all year round.
The art museum is another popular spot for contemporary art lovers, with a mix of exciting exhibitions. The history museum tells the story of Kristinehamn’s
important role in the iron-shipping business, while the IronTrail Marathon follows these same historical footsteps. The popular marathon runs along the same tracks the iron workers took, loading and transporting their goods from the mines in the 17th and 18th centuries.
So, whether you’re looking for a running challenge, the next destination for your cycling trip, a hike in historical surrounds, island hopping, a delicious culinary experience or unique shopping by one of the largest lakes in Europe, Kristinehamn is most likely the destination for you.
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The High Coast in Sweden is where the mountains and the sea meet. The world’s highest coastline offers amazing views, untouched nature, exciting outdoor activities and memorable experiences for the whole family.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Höga Kusten Destinationsutveckling
Since the last Ice Age, the land along the High Coast has risen around 300 metres, making it the world’s highest coastline. Today, it’s part of the High Coast/Kvarken Archipelago World Heritage Site. “It’s a great destination for outdoor activities,” says Andreas Olsson, travel trade manager at Höga Kusten. “Only around 120,000 people live in this region, which is about the same size as half of the Netherlands. That’s a lot of nature for each person.”
The High Coast was recently listed in New York Times’ ‘52 Places for a Changed World’, where Ingrid K. Wil-
liams highlights greener alternative destinations where travellers can be part of the sustainable solution. “With more than 100 nature reserves, a national park and hundreds of miles of trails, this
wilderness refuge is a draw for hikers, cross-country skiers and mountaineers seeking less-trodden paths, stunning vistas and uncrowded campsites,” Williams writes about the High Coast.
Similarly, in his article ‘Secret Sweden: where Stockholmers really go on holiday’ for The Times, journalist Richard Mellor reflects on the High Coats’s attraction for city folk, who “love escaping to the High Coast’s peaks, food and arty islands. You will too”. Mellor praises in particular the area’s flexibility: “Beach bums, road-trippers, weekend walkers,
hardcore hikers, trail runners, foodies and families all have reason to head this way, while I was enticed by the epic scenery and an unlikely profusion of cool hotels, art and architecture.”
Explore the world’s highest coastline The High Coast has seen an upswing during the pandemic, with interest in the area growing in Sweden and abroad, as illustrated by the recent features in New York Times and The Times. “The geology here is unique. You have dramatic cliffs dropping into the sea, the archipelago with its picturesque islands, as well as the the beautiful inland,” says Olsson. “All seasons are fantastic, from the lush spring months and the long days in summer, to the rich colours in autumn – which is the perfect time for hiking by the way – and the crisp winter with snow, ice fishing, cross-country skiing and much more.”
Olsson recommends exploring the whole region, including the coast and archipelago as well as the inland. Pay a visit to Skuleberget, 286 metres above sea level. During summertime you can take a cable car to the top of the mountain, have a lovely lunch or fika at the restaurant and café, and enjoy the far-reaching views.
In Skuleskogen National Park you can learn all about how the inland icesheet and the ocean’s waves have shaped the landscape.
Not to miss are the Ulvön islands, the High Coast archipelago’s biggest tourist attraction with a fantastic cultural heritage. Here you will find charming fishing villages with small boatsheds and traditional wooden frames for drying fish nets. In fact, Ulvön was once northern Sweden’s largest fishing community and is often referred to as ‘the gem of the Baltic Sea’.
There is much more to discover, too. For instance, the 130-kilometre-long High Coast Trail is one of Sweden’s 12 Signature Trails, stretching through the entire World Heritage Site. The scenery shifts between deep forests, mountain tops, sandy beaches, steep cliffs and green meadows. At times, you will find yourself up to 250 metres above sea level. Nowhere else in Sweden can you hike at these heights so close to the sea.
Along the High Coast Trail, you can also check out ArkNat, a concept merging ar-
chitecture and nature. Every year, leading architecture students from all over Scandinavia gather to challenge the way we look at design. Through seminars, workshops and construction, they leave behind new hideouts and shelters for public use.
Another tip is the High Coast Art Valley, a culture trail along the High Coast. The Nätterlund Foundation has put 25 works of art on display along a culture trail that stretches from the Ulvön islands all the way to the Nätraälven valley. Some are completely freestanding, others are part of schools, banks, roads and cultural areas.
For hungry visitors, the High Coast showcases a wide selection of cuisine and flavours such as wild salmon, moose fillet with lingonberries and chanterelle mushrooms sautéed in butter. You will find world-class restaurants, award-winning distilleries, firstclass cheeses, Sweden’s largest flatbread bakery and much more besides.
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Båstad has something to offer pleasure-seekers all year round, with its exquisite surroundings, culinary delights and options for recreational excursions and healthy days out. If you’re looking for an energy boost, this southern Swedish spot is the place to be.
By John Sempill
The peninsula of Bjärehalvön and Båstad became popular in the 1990s, when a boom in health tourism saw tourists flock to the area for bathing and other wellness activities. Today, it’s a well-known holiday spot, with visitors returning every year for a week off, a spa weekend, or a few rounds of golf.
With some of the best beaches in Sweden, Båstad is definitely a summer delight, but it’s just as magical during the snowy months, as the winter bathing guests would have you know. Every
Christmas day, visitors gather for a traditional dip in the sea, followed by something warm and soothing to eat and drink. “It is an exciting event,” says Annika Borgelin, CEO of Båstad Tourism and Business. “We saw a real upturn here during the pandemic. This is also thanks to the mild climate – the sea never really freezes to ice.”
With spring around the corner, running enthusiasts are gearing up for the Torekov-Båstad trail run. “It starts in Torekov and ends in Båstad, in fantastic surroundings,” Borgelin says. “It is a spectacular event with amazing views from the hills over the sea. And it’s more than just running a distance – it’s a real experience, running through magical spots such as Hovs Hallar, along the coast.”
Speaking of Hovs Hallar, you might recognise its dramatic landscape from Ingmar Bergman’s classic film The Seventh Seal. However, if you don’t fancy a mortal game of chess on the beach, you might instead be interested in an adventurous hike or a stay at the hotel, Hotell och Restaurang Hovs Hallar.
Besides the cinematic hikes, there are also numerous road cycling routes on the peninsula. One such trail is Buktenbanan, situated up north by the sea, with a breathtaking view over the undulating landscape. “We’ve focused a lot on cycling. We even have lodging especially suited for cyclists – we call it ‘biker proof accommodation’,” says Borgelin. These unique lodgings are certified according to a list of special bike-related requirements. “This means that if you stay at one of these spaces, you can be certain you can park your bike, carry out smaller repairs, pump the tires, clean your bike – everything a bicyclist needs. And we have several bicycle camps here every year,” she explains.
Golf is big here too. Båstad boasts fantastic golf courses and facilities, with views over Laholm Bay, between Tylösand and Hovs Hallar. And we still haven’t mentioned tennis; the racket sport is probably Båstads biggest claim to fame. “Some of the first tennis courts here
were established in the 1920s by the famous Nobel family,” Borgelin says. “And King Gustaf V of Sweden spent several summers playing tennis here.”
The annual tennis tournament, Nordea Open, is a huge attraction in Båstad, and draws visitors from all over Europe. “This is probably the main event that Båstad is famous for,” she continues. “It is a fantastic tennis tournament that has hosted the absolute elite. It’s a major occasion, with supporting activities and competitions for all of our visitors to experience.”
Sporting activities aside, Båstad is also a great destination for a corporate kickoff, company event or a getaway with the family. For the perfect weekend, check-in to one of the gorgeous seaside hotels. At Hotel Skansen, the cocktail list is curated by bar manager Daniel Seehusen, one of the world’s best mixologists, and the pool offers an atmospheric view over Båstad’s fabulous surroundings.
“We also recommend taking a walk by the harbour in Båstad. There, you can really taste the atmosphere,” says Borgelin. Speaking of tasting the atmosphere, what better way to do so than with a visit to one of Båstad’s vineyards? Vejby Vineyard has won prizes at the International Wine Challenge in London for several
consecutive years, and rumour has it that a wine festival is in the making.
Finally, don’t miss Norrvikens Trädgårdar – a park with seven gardens. “This is a magical place for all your senses. During the winter the whole park is lit up in different colours, and is something to experience for the whole family. The park is the perfect place for those who enjoy fine culture, but also a great place for children to explore,” says Borgelin.
There’s truly something for everyone. Have a drink, a soothing swim, attend one of Båstad’s several events and soak up its infamously picturesque nature. Båstad won’t let you down.
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Walk it, bike it, swim it or savour it. Helsingborg is the small coastal gem in Sweden’s south that has earned recognition for its great culinary offering and bigtown buzz. Here, renowned restaurants, beautiful nature and fascinating culture are all easily accessible, along with an attractive collection of vineyards.
By Emma Rodin | Photos: Helsingborg“Two countries but one destination.”
That is how Evelina Johnsson, sales and marketing coordinator at Visit Helsingborg, describes the seaside city in question. “Not everyone realises just how close Denmark and the city of Helsingør is, you can get there by ferry in just 20 minutes, which really expands the opportunities on offer.”
A great activity to try in the area is sea bathing followed by a sauna, a tradition that dates back to the 1800s, and which both reduces stress and boosts happiness. There are plenty of opportunities to go for a dip in the sea, with no less than
three popular sea baths: Rååbaden to the south, Kallis right by the beach in the town centre, and Pålsjöbaden slightly further north. What’s more, the annual sea bathing festival will take place at the end of January, offering visitors a range of experiences relating to this historic pastime.
elsen in 2016 and offers wine tasting and tours, but also an apple farm, a honeybee farm and a culinary garden – a dream for wine aficionados and foodies alike.
A gastronomic mecca Helsingborg is also home to a broad range of restaurants, several of which are listed in the White Guide. “Helsingborg has developed a lot over the last couple of years,” says Johnsson. “It’s a fantastic destination with lots of culinary experiences awaiting; it’s a bit of a gastronomic mecca, actually.”
If swimming in the sea isn’t your cup of tea, it might surprise you to learn that there are plenty of vineyards to stop off at. In fact, northwest Skåne’s mild climate is beneficial for vines. One of the successful vineyards is Lottenlund Estate in the small village of Allerum. Inspired by the vineyards of Tuscany in Italy, Lottenlund Estate was established by
Tina Berth-From cosy casual to fine dining and sky bars, there is something for every occasion – and tastebud. Varvet food market in Helsingør is an ideal pit-stop for those taking the ferry across to Denmark. This foodie hub offers street food from all over the world, including fish ‘n’ chips, tacos and sweet treats too.
While here, make sure to visit the Kronborg castle too. Steeped in history and part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List, this castle is one of northern Europe’s most impressive, and is the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. For an extra dose of royal history, there is also the impressive Sofiero Palace which sits a mere five kilometres from Helsingborg’s centre.
And if you fancy a beer? Head to one of the area’s many microbreweries. “Those visiting in summer are extra lucky as there’s even an annual beer festival called Brewskival happening in August,” says Johnsson.
Fredriksdals open-air museum and botanical garden is a lovely destination for the whole family. Here, time has stood still. Animals graze in the fields and hay is harvested in the meadows.
Then of course, there is Wallåkra Stoneware Factory, a popular maker of ceramics using traditional techniques. Indeed, not much has changed here since 1864 and visitors can follow the entire production, from clay to finished product.
Here, you can also sit down for a light meal at Miss Alice, the restaurant famous for its tomato tart made with home-grown tomatoes from across the street. “Worth mentioning is the number
of tomato varieties grown here – around 150!” enthuses Johnsson. As if all that wasn’t enough, the area around Helsingborg has an abundance of golf courses, attracting players from around the world.
And in line with Helsingborg’s mission to always be at the forefront of development, the new Oceanhamnen (Ocean
Kallbadsveckan (sea bathing week), 25 - 30 January
A week wholly dedicated to the culture around sea bathing, including sea baths, lectures and sauna experiences. www.kallbadsveckan.se
Port) district is being constructed. Apart from new, great-quality homes, Scandic Hotels has launched a new offering here which boasts a relaxation suite on the 12th floor. What’s not to love?
www.visithelsingborg.com Instagram: @visithelsingborg Facebook: visithelsingborg
By air: Ängelholm Helsingborg Airport (34km), Copenhagen Airport (97km), Malmö Airport (87 km)
By car: highways E6 and E4
By train: Skånetrafiken and SJ
Sweden’s southernmost city, Trelleborg, is surrounded by verdant countryside, traditional farms and picturesque villages and, of course, the beautiful shore.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Joakim Lindström and Fredrik Pusa
Trelleborg is where the south coast and the vast plains meet. In summer, the coastline is bursting with life: it’s all about the sun, the sea, hiking and cycling. In winter, focus is on mindful holidays that encourage stopping for a while to land and breathe. As a visitor, you’ll discover the great quality of life that Trelleborg has to offer, regardless of season.
One of Sweden’s national cycling routes, the South Coast Trail, runs along the coast here. The hiking trails Skåneleden and Pilgrimsleden also pass through the region. And this summer, Trelleborg was the proud host of ArkNat, a concept that saw architecture students design wind shelters in nature. It is well worth checking out Cocoon, the new shelter located in Östra Torp, a short walk from Smygehuk.
Trelleborg itself is a friendly, welcoming town. The city centre has convenient pedestrian areas, beautiful parks, culture, activities to explore and cosy terraces on which to enjoy lunch or fika. “Many of us have reimagined what makes for a great visitor experience. Since the pandemic, we tend to think more locally and look for things in our immediate surround-
ings to see and do,” says Petra Strandberg, strategic development manager at Visit Trelleborg. “In the Trelleborg region, we have fantastic activities and a rich culture offering, as well as fabulous local produce. And above all, we have a great sense of hospitality and extend a warm welcome to all visitors.”
The southern coast of Sweden is ideal for agriculture. “Trelleborg is often called Skåne’s pantry because of its traditional craftsmanship and great local produce,” explains Strandberg. “Here, traditional Swedish cuisine meets the modern kitchen. The quality of produce is fantastic, you have to come and try it!”
Grönby Chark is a great example of craftsmanship with sustainability in mind. In the farm shop, you can purchase handmade deli goods, and in the restaurant, try a delicious gourmet wood-fired
pizza topped with carefully-selected ingredients. Another interesting destination is Hallongården, a farm specialising in raspberries. Its farm shop and café, which serves delicious raspberry treats, makes for a charming outing. Take the opportunity to buy jams, ketchup, dessert sauces and tasty drinks, all made from raspberries.
North of Trelleborg is Hällåkra Winery, a pioneer in Scandinavian wine production. Run by the Hansson family, the winery makes red, white, sweet and sparkling wines. Take a walk in the vineyard, enjoy a drink and a bite to eat in Vinoteket, or book a tour hosted by the winemaker himself. For beer aficionados, Hönsinge Hantwerksbryggeri is a must. This craft brewery at Jordberga Castle runs a brewpub in the park and organises beer tastings. Another of Trelleborg’s gems is Sodalicious, Sweden’s only organic soda factory.
The Vikings and Sweden’s southernmost point
The city got its name from the Viking fort Trelleborgen, which sits in the middle of the city. The fort was discovered in 1988 and is circular – similar to the one in Slagelse in Denmark. In July, Trelleborgen opened new exhibition Borgen vid Havet (The Fort by the Sea), a modern multimedia experience that tells the story of the place and the people who lived here. Here, visitors can explore what the Vikings’ everyday might have looked like.
Strandberg also recommends Smygehuk, Sweden’s southernmost point. It’s an unforgettable experience all year round with shops, a fish smokery and a café. During summer, there are lots of music, art and culture events, whilst the winter offers clean, crisp air and spectacular sunsets. Smygehuk Lighthouse is located just a few hundred metres from the southernmost point, boasting fabulous views, and you can even spend the night at Smygehuk Lighthouse Hostel.
For a well-deserved break, Weinbergs is an excellent hotel with a focus on gastronomy and local produce. Weinbergs Hotel is based in a traditional farmhouse from 1859, with uniquely furnished rooms. “This is our best accommodation,” says Strandberg. “Here, you can
combine the best of two worlds: rural relaxation and close proximity to the city.”
Apart from stunning surroundings, rich culture and amazing food, Trelleborg has unique shopping opportunities in the countryside, at the many traditional farms that have been transformed into boutiques and meeting places, with restaurants and cafés. “You will find a mix of fashion, interior, gardening and handcraft. Each boutique has its own charm, but they all have creative ideas and stylish collections in common,” concludes Strandberg. “The shops have generous opening hours and always offer a warm welcome. And you won’t have to jostle with the usual city shopping crowds!”
www.visittrelleborg.se
The city of stone – known as Stenstan in Swedish – is the heart of Sundsvall. This historical city was recently named the most beautiful city in Sweden, and it has it all: mouth-watering food, pilgrim routes for hiking and cycling, ski slopes and a backdrop of fabulous nature.
By John Sempill
Are you looking for the perfect Swedish getaway? Try Destination Sundsvall – consisting of the cities Sundsvall, Timrå and Ånge. Situated by the coast in central Sweden, yet still part of Sweden’s glorious northernmost land area, you’ll be close to fairy-tale nature and midnight sun, without having to forego the urban pulse – unless you want to, of course. But why leave Stenstan when you are surrounded by picturesque mountains?
The name Stenstan has a history. The city was built up in stone after areas of it were ruined by a fire in 1888. “Sundsvall is the city between the mountains, with Stenstan in the centre. Surrounding the city are the mountains Norra Berget and Södra Berget,” explains Anna Borggren, the business area manager of Hospitality Sundsvall.
Don’t be fooled by the assumptions related to mountains and northern Swe-
den. Although the region is perfect for cross-country skiing during the winter months, it’s a summer paradise come
the warmer months. “Something that is unique for Destination Sundsvall is that there is something to do all year round,” Borggren says. “We have amazing beaches and a long coast, with maritime life and lovely nature. But we also have the dense forests towards Ånge. It really is a destination full of contrasts.”
No matter what you are looking for, Sundsvall has a lot to offer. Whilst staying at one of the many top-notch hotels, don’t miss dining at one of Sundsvall’s several restaurants. “We have a rich food culture with an interesting history. We call it ‘The Taste of Medelpad’ – the taste of our fabulous landscape, in other words. We have an amazing restaurant offering in Stenstan, including Chef of
If you haven’t worked up an appetite yet, you’ll definitely want a bite to eat after a spot of cross-country skiing. Sundsvall has over 500 kilometres of skiing trails on offer and if they are good enough for nine-time Olympic medallist and cross-country skier, Charlotte Kalla, they should be good enough for anyone. “She lives here, trains here and built her success here,” says Borggren. “Many of our visitors are interested in Vasaloppet –the world’s biggest cross-country ski race. This is the perfect place to come to work and train for this prestigious event. It’s only ten minutes by car to our trails.”
There’s something for everyone, here. Perhaps you prefer downhill skiing. Why not try one of Sundsvall’s six slopes? Or, leave the skis at home altogether and have a traditional winter swim in the sea. What’s more, the pilgrim trail St Olavsleden starts here. “The trail goes from Sundsvall to Trondheim in Norway,” Borggren says. “This trail is 580 kilometres in total and offers amazing hiking. We compare it to Compostela de Santiago, in Spain. And it’s perfect for cycling, too.”
Younger visitors might prefer Himlabadet, an indoor adventure water park. And you won’t go wrong with a family outing at the city park Norra Berget –Sundsvall’s open-air museum with cafés, restaurants and animals.
If it’s nightlife you’re after, then nightlife you’ll get. The old train station, one of Sundsvall’s oldest buildings, has been done up and turned into Centralen – a space that features a nightclub, restaurants and conference facilities. But what would all this be without somewhere to wind down? At the top-class hotel Södra Berget, you can get toasty at the spa, enjoy a gourmet meal and some truly fabulous views. But beware, once you visit Sundsvall, chances are you won’t want to leave!
www.visitsundsvall.se Instagram: @visitsundsvall Facebook: visitsundsvall
Small but mighty: perhaps that is how best to describe Läckö-Kinnekulle and the city of Lidköping. An area renowned for its food, nature and culture, this is a dream destination for those looking to combine culinary discoveries with memorable experiences.
By Emma RodinHome to 220 kilometres of coastline belonging to Sweden’s largest lake, Vänern, as well as an impressive number of restaurants and cafés included in the prestigious White Guide, there’s no question as to why Läckö-Kinnekulle has a reputation as an all-in-one destination.
“This whole area has a deep connection to food, and it’s all tied together with a love of local produce,” explains Läckö-Kinnekulle tourism’s marketing coordinator, Malin Johansson Fahlström. “Lidköping is absolutely full of
quaint little coffee shops and is a real hub for the Swedish ‘fika’ culture of having coffee with something sweet.”
There are also plenty of apple orchards around, known for producing delicious beverages, most commonly using Bramley apples. These and other farmmade products can be purchased at the many farm shops – each deserving a visit – dotted around Läckö-Kinnekulle.
Should you need further convincing of the area’s greatness, heed the praise of Tareq Taylor, the much-loved Swedish chef, who visited Läckö-Kinnekulle last summer as part of his Nordic Cookery TV show.
“This region has left an impression on me. It’s absolutely incredible. There are so many ways to enjoy yourself, and great quality food is everywhere. If it isn’t on your bucket list already, it should be. If you want to experience the
true essence of Swedish summer, this is where you go,” he said.
For an out-of-the ordinary experience, the very local Vendace Roe Adventure is a must. The European Commission accredited this roe under the Protected Designation of Origin regulation back in 2022, which identifies a product as being uniquely produced, processed and prepared in a specific geographical area.
The Vendace Roe Adventure begins with a meal at one of the restaurants in a local harbour. Here, guests will enjoy a roe tasting while listening to stories of how roe fishing first started back in the ‘60s.
“You also get to accompany a fisherman out on the lake to get the full experience. It’s a wonderful way to learn about, and respect, roe as a product,” says Johansson Fahlström.
Part of the deal is also a night’s stay at Victoriahuset, plus a guided tour at the famous Läckö Slott. This historical castle is one of Sweden’s largest, and it has a flourishing garden where lots of produce is grown, then served in various dishes at the accompanying restaurant.
Recognised as a part of the UNESCO biosphere reserve and as a global geopark,
Kinnekulle is also home to ramson. This is the unusual type of onion which grows here thanks to the area’s specific geology and limestone-rich grounds. Ramson fields, recognisable for their white flowers with a garlicky scent, appear here each spring.
Ramson is also popular in cooking, and its leaves are used to make anything from pesto to soups. At Sweden’s oldest inn, Forshems Gästgivaregård, they’ve been doing it for centuries, and the place well worth a visit. So, too, is the 40-metre-deep quarry found on Kinnekulle, where limestone was originally sourced.
On another note, Lidköping is often referred to as ‘the city of porcelain’, thanks to the legacy of local porcelain-maker Rörstrand. Rörstrand is the crown jewel of Swedish porcelain production, and its history is vividly brought alive at the Rörstrand Museum. Here, visitors can enjoy a good lunch or coffee and cakes –served on genuine Rörstrand porcelain, of course.
“Thanks to Rörstrand, Läckö-Kinnekulle has a lot of entrepreneurs working with ceramics. Something which has inspired many restaurants to serve their food on this brand’s high-quality porcelain,” says Johansson Fahlström.
Markets and more Lidköping is also home to one of northern Europe’s biggest town squares, which has been a hotspot for market traders for 350 years. The city is full of lovely little shops, and hosts a range of big events, despite its humble size.
Furthermore, there are lots of different ways to discover Läckö-Kinnekulle’s stunning scenery and spectacular sights. Especially popular is hiking, biking and kayaking, with plenty of different routes to take, and the opportunity to rent gear too.
Whatever floats your boat and however you prefer to experience Läckö-Kinnekulle and Lidköping, its rich cultural heritage and long-standing traditions will keep you entertained for days. Why not start off with a traditional Swedish fika, and take things from there?
www.lackokinnekulle.se
Instagram: @lackokinnekulle Facebook: lackokinnekulle
Travel to Läckö-Kinnekulle and Lidköping
By plane: to Gothenburg Landvetter airport
By train: from Gothenburg to Lidköping
By car or bus: from Gothenburg
Not far from Stockholm, the municipality of Nykvarn is the perfect destination for a special one-night escape, or to soak up some nature. The municipality is relatively young, formed in 1999, and is full of surprises, from its natural beauty to its cosy atmosphere.
There are many reasons to visit the locality of Nykvarn. Among them, its pristine landscape, rich variety of events and activities, and – last but not least –its interesting cultural heritage.
The area is well-connected – a fast train from Nykvarn to Stockholm takes just 30 minutes, making it the perfect day-trip destination from Sweden’s capital city. “In this area, you can choose from various interesting destinations, mainly located along the Yngern Lake, which boasts very clean water,” says the municipality’s tourism manager Isabell Kilström.
In the natural reserve of Jägarskogen, for example, visitors can enjoy the fruits of nature by picking berries, flowers and mushrooms, depending on the season, and walking or riding along one of its trails.
Taxinge Castle is another highlight of the area. Built at the beginning of the 19th century, it’s the setting of the Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman’s 1972 production, Cries and Whispers. Between a visit to the set location and a walk in the park, take a break with a typical Swedish ‘fika’ (‘coffee break’), and choose from the 65 types of pastries available. If you’re willing to travel back in time, hop aboard the steamboat or steam train that stops at Taxinge between Mariefred and Stockholm.
Then, for a once in a lifetime experience, reserve accommodation at Myssjö Gård, on the island in the middle of Yngern Lake. Here, depending on how adventurous you feel, you can overnight in a ‘flottel’ – a cosy room floating on the water surface, or in a tent suspended among the trees. More traditional accommoda-
tions are also available, such as a safari tent or a red timber house immersed in the natural beauty of the island.
“Thanks to its ideal location, Nykvarn has the benefits of a big city, with the friendly atmosphere and easy-to-explore dimensions of a smaller place,” says Kilström. The area is an unexpected treasure – perfect for those who want to take a break from conventional vacations.
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Tucked away in a west-Norwegian fjord lies the Dale factory, only a stone’s throw away from its original birthplace. Established in 1879, Dale of Norway has grown to command a vast international market with its traditional, yet unique knitwear. Dale of Norway is a distinctive, modern brand that has brought Norwegian heritage to people everywhere.
By Celina Tran | Photos: Dale of Norway
What does the average Norwegian have in common with Olympic skiing champions? Three things: heaps of snow, skis in the shed and, of course, a Dale of Norway jumper. For Norwegians stranded abroad, a single glance at a knitted Norwegian eight-petal rose is enough to bring them back home to the prickly feeling of snow against the skin, and the scent and sound of smoky, crackling logs in the fireplace. Founded over 140 years ago, Dale of Norway has become a
staple of Norwegian heritage – one that inspires a unanimous sense of home.
“We’re very proud that Dale is recognised as the original pattern designer of classic Norwegian knitwear,” says Christine Madsen, who runs Dale’s marketing department. Tradition plays an important role in the brand, but Madsen explains that Dale is modernising, while constantly working to ensure timelessness and quality.
“Tradition and heritage are important aspects of our designs, but we also have to adjust to keep the brand updated,” she says. “Some of our designs remain the same, others are more contemporary. Our goal is to ensure that our clothes don’t have a due date. The time-
less style and high quality means that Dale products can be passed down from generation to generation.”
Nowadays, the Dale collection offers an extensive collection of wear, from thinner merino products perfect for sport and activities, to thick winter sweaters for cold, snowy days on the slopes. They also offer a range of warm and comfortable everyday wear, fit for work and leisure.
At the end of the 1800s, when Norway’s status as a prosperous oil nation was a distant reverie, politician and businessman Peter Jebsen found himself in Dale – a tiny, fading place made up of a few impoverished farms. In the town’s awe-inspiring river Bergdalselva, Jebsen’s entrepreneurial mind saw an eternal source of energy, perfect for running a factory.
In 1879, textile manufacturing at Dale began and has not stopped since. The factory survived floods, fires, two world wars, a depression and even several pandemics. Every time, Dale of Norway came out on the other side, stronger and better.
The factory put Dale on the map, not only in Norway, but internationally. For the Olympic games of 1956, they had the honour of producing the championship sweaters. They have since been responsible for every single Olympic sweater
worn by the Norwegian ski team, earning worldwide recognition as the internationally renowned brand they are today. “We’ve experienced an explosion of international interest for knitting, knitwear, our patterns and brand, which is very exciting,” says Madsen.
Even before terms like ‘carbon footprint’ and ‘global warming’ began flooding social media and political campaigns, Dale of Norway has championed protecting the nature that nurtured their existence and inspired their designs.
Transparent about their journey to becoming even greener, Dale acknowledges the large role the textile industry plays in climate change, especially with large fast-fashion brands’ constant new launches and over-production. “We’re trying to do the opposite: slow fashion,” says Madsen. “We only launch one new collection a year, and we adjust our production to ensure that we don’t produce more than we actually sell.”
The focus on using natural, long-lasting materials and creating high-quality products is Dale of Norway’s main contribution to making the fashion industry greener. “About 40 per cent of our collection is knitted using locally sourced Norwegian wool, but we also use high-quality merino wool from producers in South America, New Zealand and Australia, as
it’s softer and more comfortable on the skin,” says Madsen. “For the most part, production happens in Norway, so that we can ensure good working conditions and continue to provide jobs in the local area,” she adds.
“We’re so lucky to have a great starting point with our hydropower and the unmatched adaptability of Norwegian wool. Even though we’re one of the greener textile manufacturers out there, we constantly try to do better.”
www.daleofnorway.com Instagram: @Daleofnorway Facebook: Dale of Norway
Sustainability, a low environmental footprint, innovation, local produce and crisps full of personality and flair: Norwegian crisp brand Sørlandschips is paving its own way making one of Norway’s most-loved snacks.
By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: Sørlandschips
The story of Sørlandschips is like a modern fairytale. Co-founder Leif Arne’s friend returned to the south-coast town of Kristiansand from a holiday in Canada, carrying a plastic bag full of kettle crisps. Sharing the goods with his friends, the group mused on how inconvenient it would be to have to travel back to Canada every time they craved the thick, crunchy golden flakes that were unlike any other crisps they’d ever tried. “We’ll just have to make them ourselves then!” Leif Arne shrugged. And so they did – slicing potatoes, skin and all, dousing them in peanut oil and baking them slowly in the oven. Sørlandschips was born, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Some 30 years later, Sørlandschips has become one of the biggest and bestloved crisp brands in Norway and is the country’s defining brand in kettle crisps.
Selling not only locally in Kristiansand but also nationwide, it has become one of the staples of the Norwegian concept of ‘lørdagsgodt’, or ‘Saturday treats’.
Sørlandschips was the first brand to introduce Norway to the concept of kettle crisps, the rustic crisp style that uses the whole potato, rather than peeling off the skin before cooking. This not
only adds to the taste and texture, but helps to battle food waste on an impressive scale. “It benefits both the flavour and the environmental footprint of the crisps,” says CMO Daniel Bernstein. “We save more than ten million potatoes’ worth of food waste per year, just from keeping the peel on the potato. What’s more, it allows us to use both smaller and larger potatoes than in ‘normal’ crisp production – so we save another five million potatoes per year, there. That’s 15 million potatoes!”
The potatoes are locally sourced from 50 nearby farms. The farmers bring their potatoes to the factory, and just 27 minutes later they can walk out with a bag of crisps made from their own potatoes, and labelled with the name of their own farm.
Not only is minimising their environmental footprint important to Sørlandschips, the local community is too. The brand contributes by training, employing and providing language courses to immigrants. This led to a 2021 nomination for Mangfoldsprisen, a prize awarded by the Norwegian government for outstanding use of immigrants’ skills in working life. “Having immigrants as part of our workforce brings a whole new warmth and joy to the factory,” says
Bernstein. “We are that little crisps factory that is also a family.”
With a multitude of flavours, two different types of crisps (the original and the world’s thinnest version of the original), vegan options and a concept unlike any other, Sørlandschips has charmed its way into people’s hearts. The bags all feature individual cartoon-like crisp characters – each with its own distinct personality to match the flavours. The sea-salt crisp hangs out on a sunny beach while salt and vinegar wears a sixpence and walks a dog draped in the Union Jack past a London phone booth.
Rather than the straight, thin, rounded flakes most brands present, Sørlandschips’ crisps are wonky, curly, folded and perfectly imperfect. A few years ago, the brand polled Norwegians to find out whether they preferred the straight or the bent crisps... and bent crisps won by a landslide.
This adventurous and playful spirit is also shared by the flavours. Sørlandschips has the familiar favourites, like sea salt, crème fraîche, and sea salt and vinegar –but also some more unusual ones like jalapeno and crème fraîche, and sea salt and truffle. A couple of times a year, special-edition crisps are released. This win-
ter, two new varieties representing Sweden and Norway will go head-to-head in a friendly sporting battle: from Norway, sausage with ketchup (an homage to the popular Norwegian winter-sports-spectator snack), and from Sweden, dill and chives (a favourite crisp flavour in the neighbouring land).
In the autumn of 2022, Sørlandschips launched a new limited-edition flavour called Verdens Tynneste Sørlandschips Hockeypulver, flavoured with a well-established liquorice candy powder called Hockeypulver. “Our plant manager Kjartan Rønvik (#ChipsKjartan) published it as a series of videos on TikTok and it went viral with close to 500,000 views!” recounts Bernstein. “We see this as a confirmation of the interest and love of our brand.”
Meanwhile, Leif Arne, the co-founder and the face of Sørlandschips, is still as involved as ever – not only in terms of the production, but also via social media, music videos, live performances and other appearances, tying it all together and giving the brand that personal, local touch.
www.sorlandschips.no Instagram: @sorlandschips Facebook: SorlandsChips
Sykkylven is a beautiful municipality in the county of Møre og Romsdal, on the west coast of Norway. It is known for its many furniture factories, and was previously considered quite religious. So, it might surprise many Norwegians to learn that this is where Norway’s best gin is made.
By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Brennevinsgrova
Harald Strømmegjerde grew up on a small farm. But running a farm – even a small one – with young children is a lot of work. While on a trip to Ireland with his 16-year-old son, he visited a whisky distillery. He discovered that making whisky is very similar to brewing beer. With that, the seed of a new business idea was sown. In 2019, Brennevingrova Distillery was up and running.
Today, Strømmegjerde’s distillery makes gin, whisky and aquavit. Though Norway has a tradition of making aquavit that
dates back hundreds of years, it’s not the first country that springs to mind at the mention of gin or whisky. Nevertheless, Strømmegjerde has won several prizes for his products.
“You can’t compromise on quality”
The secret to his success is quality ingredients. “You can’t compromise on quality,” Strømmegjerde says. “We want to maintain a gold-medal quality on an international level.” Competitions are a great way to assess the products, as they are blind tested by several experts.
To achieve this level of quality, Brennevingrova Distillery uses the best local ingredients, such as fresh raspberries and apples from Valldal, as well as blueberries from the surrounding mountains. You will not find any concentrates or added sugars in Brennevingrova’s spirirs. Water is the base for every type of spirit, and at Brennevingrova, they use fresh glacier water.
Many of the flavours are inspired by self-sufficient life on a small farm with gardens and orchards. “The idea was to use as many as possible of the ingredients you’d find in a garden or on a small farm, and to use them like a farm household would,” says Strømmegjerde. This is also a very sustainable way to source ingredients.
Strømmegjerde has exciting plans for the future: the distillery is expanding and will focus more on whisky; there are also plans to establish an apple orchard and apple-cider production. Brennevingrova’s products are currently only available in Norway, but Strømmegjerde is working on finding export partners in other countries.
www.brennevinsgrova.no Instagram: @brennevisgrova
Nabo Brasserie is a lively and welcoming restaurant, beautifully located next to Tegnérlunden Park in Stockholm city centre. Here, guests can enjoy delicious food, as well as excellent service and entertainment. This simple and friendly neighbourhood brasserie has a soft spot for the fun in life.
By“Nabo means neighbour in old Swedish, and we decided to create the ultimate gastronomic neighbour,” explains Andreas Höistad, founder and co-owner of Nabo.
Nabo Brasserie is divided over two floors of a 19th-century house. At the entrance, you are met by a long bar and vibrant dining room with an open kitchen. Downstairs, you will find another dining room and an event space which can be booked
for intimate work lunches, celebratory cocktails or big birthday parties.
“We want the ambiance to capture our love for dining, drinking and entertainment. Upon arrival, you will see the long bar and the bartenders working their magic. It instantly puts you in a great mood!” says Höistad with a smile.
Nabo Brasserie aims to provide entertainment and culture as well as delicious food and drinks. Every weekend, the exciting brunch menu offers classics such as fluffy pancakes and mimosas, and new, modern combinations like Italian steak tartare and honey basil daquiris – perfect fuel before you head out to explore the city. By night, the neighbourhood brasserie turns up the heat with DJs and well-crafted cocktails and is open for dinner and drinks from Monday to Saturday.
“Beyond our weekend DJ nights, we also arrange day parties and events. We love to combine food and drinks with music. We also host art exhibitions where local artists can display their work. We never want to exclude anyone, and everyone should feel welcome here,” says Höistad.
The menu is dynamic and European, focusing on well-known favourites with a modern twist. This is combined with a carefully sourced wine list that the waiters will guide you through. “Nick, my co-owner, is a trained sommelier, and he works hard to create the perfect wine list. He is very excited about sharing his knowledge with our guests. When it comes to the food, we never want to limit ourselves. Our French-schooled head chef Gerdvilas Zalys has the freedom to experiment with the menu and changes the dishes regularly, depending on season and produce. We like to mix comfort food with new and fun ideas,” finishes Höistad.
www.restaurangnabo.se Instagram: @restaurangnabo Facebook: Nabo
Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus (Alfie Atkins’ 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.
Nestled in the cosy, prestigious neighbourhood of Ullanlinna that curves along the Baltic Sea and makes up part of the southern tip of Helsinki, Seahorse Restaurant (Ravintola in Finnish) is a harmonious mix of past and present, and a safe haven for locals and visitors alike. All are graciously welcomed and treated to relaxing surroundings and good food.
By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Seahorse Restaurant
Seahorse originally opened in 1934 and will celebrate its 90th birthday in 2024. The menu has changed little over the years. The restaurant is known for its classic Finnish cuisine, with dishes like generous portions of crispy fried herring, vorschmak, iced cranberries with hot homemade caramel sauce, and their famous Finnish meatballs. Seahorse showcases Finnish food and its reputation has played a vital role in promoting Finnish food culture internationally.
Its openness and relaxed atmosphere have made it a central meeting point for many different types of people over the years. Artists, politicians and writers sit alongside families, date-night couples, travellers and friends enjoying an evening out. The snug booths, comfortable tables
and dreamy painted seascapes on the walls create an atmosphere of warmth.
Staff are hospitable, open and unassuming, greeting those from all of walks of life with respect and kindness. One family mentioned that when they visited the restaurant with their son who has autism, they were given his favourite table every time. Another customer spoke of the delight they experienced when celebrating birthdays and special events at Seahorse. And another, an artist from the UK who spent three months living in Helsinki, explained how he would enjoy a drink there in the evenings with local fellow artists and get to know the city and its residents.
Seahorse is a restaurant with a history. Over the years, legendary parties have
taken place, famous owners have come and gone. It has closed occasionally during hard times, but always managed to open again. Speculation has swirled around who painted the famous seahorse mural in the back of the main room of the restaurant; in reality, it was done by student artists from the nearby city of Espoo over three nights in March, 1970. Still, no one has yet figured out where it got its name. Seahorses, however, remain the restaurant’s symbol, proudly defining it as a bastion of Finnish hospitality and food around the world.
www.seahorse.fi
Instagram: @ravintolaseahorse Facebook: Sea Horse
After months of refurbishments and eager anticipation, STUD!O has opened the doors to its new premises in Carlsberg Byen in Copenhagen. On 2 December, the first guests were welcomed to sample the widely-acclaimed kitchen’s unique twist on sustainable, high-end Nordic-inspired cuisine.
By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: Chris TønnesenHead chef and co-owner Christoffer Sørensen is elated to be back in the kitchen of this exciting restaurant, which is causing ripples in gastronomic circles in Denmark and abroad. Sørensen was awarded the Michelin Guide’s ‘Young Chef Award 2021’ after just four months at the helm of STUD!O. The same year, the renowned White Guide Denmark named him ‘Young Chef Talent of the Year’ and ranked the restaurant on its most prestigious list, the ‘Global Master Class’.
The menu comprises exquisite modern Nordic dishes, which reflect the chang-
ing seasons and local produce, and the service in the restaurant is warm and welcoming. At the very core, STUD!O’s team is uncompromisingly sustainable in their approach to food, people and the environment. Here, they care as much for their employees and guests as about where their produce comes from and how it is grown.
Manifesting ideals
“It is easy to say you are sustainable, but to put it into practice is another matter,” says Sørensen. STUD!O adheres to ‘the Manifesto’ – a declaration, signed by all
employees, that describes the restaurant’s sustainability goals in relation to economy, environment and people.
“The ideals we put forward should be obvious because it is about looking after your team. It’s about caring – something we should all do,” he says. “Everyone is important, and we want every single person who works here to be happy and to stay around.” The focus on longevity and commitment supports a feeling of individual responsibility, and every person in the STUD!O family is genuinely invested in the place and its values.
From the get-go, the restaurant has been shooting for a Michelin star, but the way they achieve this is crucial. STUD!O wants to be the first truly sustainable Michelin-star restaurant, and to earn the accolade for their success in
the three dimensions of sustainability –economy, environment and people.
“I love cooking with fresh fish and seafood, using lots of vegetables and that which is growing around me,” says Sørensen. “It would be amazing to one day have a greenhouse, so we can use our own produce in the kitchen,” he continues. The menu does not change every week, but dishes are tweaked here and there over time, so the changes in the seasons are reflected on the menu.
Sørensen and restaurant manager Jesper Nilsen work closely together to come up with outstanding new dishes for the menu. “Sometimes a dish will come about because I feel inspired by a wine!” says Nilsen. But it is the local, seasonal ingredients that are the star of the show at every turn.
Down-to-earth fine dining
“It is important to us that our guests feel relaxed and comfortable and truly enjoy their visit,” Nilsen and Sørensen agree. The service and attitude at STUD!O are focused on delivering the best possible guest experience, in which everyone is made to feel welcome. “We are a highend restaurant in terms of the food and the service we provide, but it is informal, and no one should feel out of place,” says Nilsen.
Their approach to fine dining and dedication to their core values is admirable. Throw into the mix one of the most exciting chefs to come out of Denmark in recent times, and the cracking team who run the restaurant day to day, and you have a recipe for success.
STUD!O is a part of the LOCA group (‘Love before cash’), for whom sustainable gastronomy is at the core of every business, with the tagline ‘every meal matters’. At STUD!O, every meal and every guest certainly matter. The quality of the food, the wine, and the service go hand in hand with respect for the produce, the process and
the people. It is a winning combination that showcases modern, high-end Nordic cuisine at its absolute finest and most sustainable, guaranteeing that STUD!O will continue its upwards trajectory.
The food speaks for itself, and people will no doubt be queuing up for a taste of this exciting new kid on the block. So, it might be wise to book a table before the next trip to Copenhagen.
www.studiocph.dk Instagram: @studiocph Facebook: Studio
LOCA: www.locagruppen.dk
Not many people would open a new restaurant at the tail-end of a pandemic, but that is what Dick Chiang did. He was already an established restaurant owner in Tromsø, Norway, with a successful sushi restaurant under his belt, so when his favourite restaurant space became available in late 2021, he jumped at the chance to open something new.
By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Ulrikke LorentzenHibana means ‘fire spark’ and it fits both the restaurant and its owner. Chiang is passionate about food, and at the restaurant, meat is grilled on an open fire using the Japanese robatayaki method. Often shortened to ‘robata’, it is similar to barbequing. But the Josper Robatagrill in the kitchen at Hibana is unlike anything you’d find in a regular home garden. At 1.5 metres tall and able to reach temperatures of 350 degrees centigrade, it is enough to make any barbeque enthusiast quite jealous indeed.
Chiang’s passion caught the eye of the building’s owner. He loved Chiang’s concept and Hibana was soon able to move into Mackgården, a beautiful Art Nou-
veau building. The restaurant shares a cosy alleyway with a few other restaurants and bars, and is a lovely little destination in itself, with a great atmosphere.
Though Chiang knows Japanese and Asian flavours well, he wanted some-
one who knew how to use local ingredients. But finding someone like that to join his kitchen team proved difficult. Chiang chose chefs with a background in French cuisine. He found three chefs from London and brought them to Tromsø. “We started playing with local ingredients in a French and Japanese way,” Chiang explains. “We have, for example, rack of reindeer instead of rack of lamb, which we grill and serve with Korean chilli beans.”
They also serve gyoza with ‘klippfisk’ –salted and dried cod, and dim sum with prawns from Lyngen. Northern Norway is a treasure chest for seafood lovers, and Hibana is perfecting the fusion of Norwegian, French and Asian.
For Hibana, nothing is more important than high-quality ingredients, and the more local, the better. Though they are uncompromising on using the best ingredients and providing excellent service,
at a fine dining level, Hibana is a very informal restaurant. The atmosphere is laid back, cosy and a little rustic. The aim is to make the guests feel at home.
“Initially we based the idea on izakaya, a Japanese bar and grill concept where people meet after work to have a glass of beer or sake and be served some grilled food on the side. Now, we’ve switched to a tasting menu, where the chefs put together lots of dishes and fill the table with delicious food,” explains Chiang.
Sharing food like this is a very social from of dining – something common in Asia, but not so much in Norway. Still, Norwegians have warmly embraced it. “When there are more people around the table, the threshold for trying something new is lower. It makes people more adventurous,” says Chiang. “For example, if we serve sea urchins, those who have never tried it before might say no thanks. But then someone else tries it, and then the others have to try it, too.”
A dish is only as good as its ingredients, and Tromsø is spoilt when it comes to local produce. The fjords and the Norwegian sea provide Hibana with fresh fish, king crab and sea urchins. While they take pride in using local ingredients, not everything can be locally sourced.
Hibana is mostly about robata and great pieces of meat, from ribeye and tenderloin to Omaha and Toma Hawk. They even serve Wagyu, the finest and most succulent steak in the world. Wagyu is, of course, not local to Tromsø, but you can be certain the quality is top notch. And you are unlikely to find it anywhere else in the city.
Chiang started Hibana because he missed Japan and he missed robata. With a landlord who believed in his idea, and chefs who moved countries for him, he has created something very special, both for Tromsø locals and for visiting tourists.
www.hibana.no Instagram: @hibanarobata Facebook: hibanarobata
Step away from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life with a detour to Trakt Forest Hotel. Nestled in the fairytale-like coniferous forests of Småland, this experiential venture, with its almost-floating forest suites, invites you to enjoy the silence and let your body relax.
By Emma Rodin | Photos: Trakt Forest HotelUnlike any other hotels around, Trakt is a breath of fresh air on the Scandinavian hospitality scene. Launched in the summer of 2022, it is an extension of a family-owned farm located on the same lands, and its overall concept is about
connecting with nature and celebrating local talent – combined with Scandinavian simplicity and luxury comforts.
It all comes together in a series of individual suites which are raised from the
forest floor, with narrow paths leading to each one. “We wanted to provide an escape from the ordinary – somewhere people can come to recharge their batteries and perhaps regain some perspective, too,” explains Sandra Sälleteg, co-founder of Trakt.
Designed by architect Gert Wingård to fit seamlessly into the woodland, the forest suites make a minimal impression between the trees, providing guests with unspoiled views of the surrounding
wilderness and sky through large panoramic windows.
“We also have an ongoing partnership with students studying furniture design at Nässjö Träcentrum. They design pieces for our suites which is a great way of threading that local aspect into our offering,” explains Sälleteg.
A place to eat Trakt’s main reception and kitchen can be found in the nearby log house, a short walk from the hotel suites. This building is the first thing you’ll see when arriving at the hotel and is where all meals are served. However, guests are also welcome (and encouraged) to treat it as a place to just sit down and think.
“We cook seasonal food sourced from the farm, the forest, and the area surrounding us,” says Sälleteg. We aim to make the most of everything nature has to offer without forgetting the rich traditions and history of the region, and we let the food take its time just as it should.”
This log house is also ideal for hosting team-building events and conferences away from the city. Companies can book space just for a day, for the opportunity to spend time outdoors, and perhaps build relationships over the open fire.
Speaking of the great outdoors, there is more to Trakt than just stunning accommodation. There are walking trails with numerous viewpoints and fishing spots in the nearby lake. The more adventurous can try the zipline hosted by
the company Little Rock Lake, about an hour’s drive away; an activity which is also great for conference guests.
Then, of course, there is the sauna and outdoor bathtub, where you can splash around under the stars. “This is a special experience that visitors like to rave about,” explains Sälleteg.
“Imagine a cold winter’s night where the only light comes from the moon and stars in the sky, and you’re sitting in a hot bathtub just taking in the silence and atmosphere, knowing you’re far away from the stress of society.”
The Trakt team also offer two types of drinks tastings of locally produced, non-alcoholic drinks, either guided or not.
Going solo? Then you will get a backpack including the relevant drinks as well as some local snacks to pair with the beverages. And although a guide will present the tasting initially, you will be left to enjoy the drinks on your own,
either at a beautiful place nearby or in your forest suite. Rest assured that you will get a map of the best drinking spots.
Trakt aims to offer guests a one-ofa-kind experience that smells, tastes and feels like Småland. For maximum value, Sälleteg recommends booking a two-night package to make sure there is enough time to enjoy everything on offer, with all your senses.
www.traktforesthotel.com Instagram: @traktforest.hotel Facebook: Traktforesthotel
By train: the closest train station in Nässjö. From Nässjö: taxi.
By plane: Växjö Airport or Gothenburg/ Landvetter Airport are the closest airports. From the airport: rental car.
By car: on Riksväg 47, turn off towards Alseda. In Alseda: follow the signs to Trakt Forest Hotel, which is about 6km away.
At the family-owned Salpalinjan Hovi hotel in south-eastern Finland, guests take centre stage from the minute they walk through the door.
By Linda A. Thompson | Photos: Salpalinjan HoviSalpalinjan Hovi, a small boutique hotel located a stone’s throw from Lappeenranta in Finland, has been shaped by Anne Sorsa-Vainikka’s own experiences as traveller. When her children were young and the family travelled abroad, Sorsa-Vainikka and her husband would regret splitting the family up at night, with the children in one room, and them in another. This got them wondering which services and activities their ideal hotel would offer.
In 2012, Sorsa-Vainikka, a biologist by training, fell in love with a former village
school building in their native city of Lappeenranta, where she and her husband, a lawyer, had relocated from Helsinki.
When the pair came across the gorgeous, listed building, it was immediately clear what Sorsa-Vainikka would do next. She would convert it into a small, cosy hotel, where she would offer guests the best-possible stay. Her hotel would be unique and different from chain hotels. Couples, families, nature and culture lovers would be welcome. Two years later, Salpalinjan Hovi opened.
In furnishing the hotel, Sorsa-Vainikka preserved the references to the building’s former life. “I wanted to honour the history of the school building and I decorated all the rooms according to different school subjects,” she explains. “We have a mother tongue room, a history room, a biology, geography and an art
room. All our rooms are family rooms, so that families can stay together.” Though the hotel has one small room that can accommodate a maximum of two people, most of its other rooms can sleep up to four guests, while its biggest room can sleep six.
As a Finnish touch, the hotel features a traditional wooden sauna. “Foreign tourists might not understand why a school would have a sauna, but in Finland, teachers used to live in the school building. So, of course, they needed to have the sauna,” she explains with a smile.
Family-friendly hospitality Salpalinjan Hovi is a family-friendly hotel in several ways. Sorsa-Vainikka’s own children were picky eaters – and as a result, eating out at restaurants could be a stressful experience on holiday. So, she built a kitchen corner in each hotel room, where guests can make their own meals if they wanted to. Furthermore, guests can borrow everything from board games and books, to skates, skis and snowsuits for free during their stay.
The hotel is located a mere nine kilometres from Lappeenranta, a city in south-eastern Finland renowned for its rich history and breathtaking nature. Nearby, visitors will find idyllic hiking trails, birdwatching, biking, fishing and paddling, as well as a 17th-century fortress, a former bunker line known as the Salpa Line, and stunning views of
Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland. The hotel also offers multiple seasonal travel packages, from a three-day cycling tour, to a guided tour of the area’s most important war history sites. In addition, the hotel’s partner companies can bring rental equipment to the hotel and organise various activities and services.
Salpalinjan Hovi is the hotel in the wider Lappeenranta area with the best overall score on Booking.com (9.4), and the only hotel in the region with a score above nine. Sorsa-Vainikka attributes the many positive reviews to the personable and warm approach she has offered every single guest in the hotel’s eight years of operation. “When I go abroad
and visit a city, I want to know what the most important sites are. And often, it’s difficult to find out,” she says.
That is why, as a hotel manager and host, Sorsa-Vainikka is always on hand to offer guidance and advice to first-time visitors to the area. “When guests, especially foreign guests, come to our hotel, I always tell them what there is to see and experience around the Lappeenranta area. I want our guests to have a superb holiday in which they discover the many interesting places here in Lappeenranta. And I think guests really appreciate that.”
www.salpalinjanhovi.com Facebook: salpalinjanhovi
Nordmeland Gårdshotell is a love story between two local family farms who have come together after several generations. Today, the modern family business aspires to provide an authentic, local and historical culinary and hotel experience.
By Celina TranMany city-slickers will swear that there’s nothing like living in a metropolis of bustling life and flashing lights. But sometimes, the electric glow and the cacophony of car horns can turn into an urban cocktail of headaches and stress. For the moments where you need a break from the fast-paced city life, look to central Norway, where a much-needed countryside staycation awaits you.
Step into history and nature through a modern, luxurious stay at Nordmeland Gårdshotell.
Nordmeland Gårdshotell is a hotel, restaurant and farm in the country, run by husband and wife Jørn Nordmeland and Signe Lillian Fagerdal Nordmeland, both heirs to their respective ancestral homesteads and farms. Their union re-
sulted in the creation of their farm food business Nordmeland Gårdsmat (Nordmeland Farm Food), and the hotel itself.
“Our goal is to give our guests a historical, yet comfortable and welcoming experience,” says Jørn. “Visitors also get a unique farm-to-fork food experience, as everything is homegrown and produced.”
Both the Fagerdal and the Nordmeland family farms hark back several generations. Jørn’s family has run the Nordmeland farm for over a century. His ancestor Ingebrigt Sivertsen took over the grounds in 1902, and passed it down to his daughter, Sofie, who did the same with her children and so forth. In 2012, Jørn and Signe Lillian took over the Nordmeland farm.
Signe Lillian’s first ancestor to run the Fagerdal farm was a man called Peder Pedersen, or ‘Per Persa’. Per and his wife Elen Marie built the on-site farmhouse in 1871, and the Fagerdal farm has been passed down through the generations, since. Signe Lillian explains that the farmhouse in Fagerdal was to be torn down in 2016 – but they did not have the heart to let go.
“We started Nordmeland Gårdsmat in 2016, at the same time as the farmhouse was to be torn down. This got our thinking-wheels spinning and we developed some new ideas,” she says. “In 2018, we began planning the establishment of Nordmeland Gårdshotell, a farm hotel, to give the original farmhouse new life.”
The Fagerdal farmhouse was disassembled and transported to Nordmeland in 2021, and exactly 150 years after her
ancestor built the house, Signe Lillian and her husband gave it a new purpose where it now serves as a historical, yet modern hotel with different rooms for each and every personality.
“Both of our familial histories and traditions are long and have been important in the making of Nordmeland Gårdshotell. We really wanted to honour our forefather, so two of the hotel rooms are called Per Persaloftet and Sofieloftet, after our ancestors Per Persa and Sofie,” says Jørn.
Though tradition and history still play a big part of the Nordmeland experience, the farmhouse doesn’t look exactly the same as it did in the 1800s. Today, it has been spruced up and modernised, offering guests a historical, yet cosy and luxurious experience. Along with everything a 21st-century hotel visitor could want, from Wi-Fi and a minibar to a warming spa experience, Nordmeland
At Nordmeland Gårdshotell, environmental preservation and consciousness is a big priority. They utilise geothermal heat, and any surplus heat is retained in the bedrock 310 metres underground, so it can be used later.
“We only have one world, and we want our climate footprint to be minimal,” says Signe Lillian. “By extracting rock heat, and storing the surplus heat for reuse, the need for other heating is minimised. We only use renewable energy, and when it comes to the greywater, we have a cutting-edge pressure-filtration system that ensures that no emissions harm the valuable nature that surrounds us.”
On the doorstep, visitors can enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Perhaps the very image of Norwegian romantic na-
tionalism, the local area offers stunning nature and farm life – a breath of fresh air to hikers, avid and amateur fishers, and nature-lovers alike.
A unique, homemade experience History and tradition are not only part of Nordmeland Gårdshotell’s walls, but also their culinary production and experience. In 2022, the area of Trøndelag was recognised with the ‘European Region of Gastronomy’ title. You could say it serves as central Norway’s very own pantry.
Jørn explains that every ingredient and food product is prepared and served with both love and history. The couple describe their cuisine as ‘unpretentious, humble, but still luxurious’, and they follow their products from farm to fork, collecting and telling the stories as they go.
“Our dishes are made of homegrown ingredients from our own farm and those of others nearby,” says Jørn. “Through Nordmeland Gårdsmat and our close relationships with local producers, we support and champion local tradition. From the mushrooms and the milk to the steak and fish, we can tell the exact story of how it ended up on our guests’ plates. No ingredient ever travels far from farm to table.” In fact, guests can even enjoy the food with Nordmeland’s homebrewed aquavit and beer. “In 2021, we were also awarded the title of ‘Meat
Producer of 2021’, which we’re very proud of,” says Signe Lillian.
Upon returning to their urban and suburban homes, visitors might find it hard to let go of the fresh air and the hyperlocal food that the countryside offers. If the taste of the countryside is a little too difficult to let go of, Nordmeland also sell everything from homemade sauces and jellies, local cheeses and lemonades, to spices and meat products, so visitors can bring a piece of Trøndelag home.
www.nordmeland.no Instagram: @nordmelandgardshotell Facebook: Normeland Gårdshotel
With a history going back 20 generations, and tucked between snow-covered mountains and fjords, the old farm Rekkedal Gjestehus invites guests to experience history, local food, culture and nature.
By Synne Johnsson | Photos: Rekkedal Gjestehus
Having grown up at the farm, Karen Rekkedal became the first female owner when she took over in 2021, alongside her husband Tov Lerheim. They further developed the guest house her parents started at the farm nearly 30 years ago, offering lunch, dinner and various activities for groups of all sizes.
According to Rekkedal: “It’s a farm with a very long history. Archaeological discoveries from here date back to the year 500. Our family history goes back to 1550 and starts with a man named Einar. I am of the 20th generation.”
The different buildings on the farm are all in exceptional condition, preserved true to the time they were built and fully insulated. The oldest buildings date back to the 1590s and are all open for guests to see how the Rekkedal family lived at the time.
Local food of high quality Rekkedal Gjestehus serves lunch as well as three and five-course dinners, catering for all visitors, from families to private parties and business events. All the food, cooked by the hosts themselves, is based on local products, with
each menu tailor-made for guests’ individual wishes and budget. To drink, Rekkedal offers local apple juice as a non-alcoholic option and a selection of wines from Piemonte in Italy, which they import themselves. Meals are served in any of the five buildings fitted for diners, depending on the size of the group. The smallest building can take up to 16 people and the largest up to 80.
“This used to be a farm with a lot of animals. We have a storehouse from 1590, with old furniture from that time and various old items from the farm. We use those for quizzes, because it’s impossible to google the answer,” Rekkedal says.
“We also have what we call Gamlestova, the old sitting room, from 1870, which can take up to 16 guests. When it was
built it housed 12 people across three generations. It’s perfect for lunch for a smaller group.”
Grindløda, a barn from 1860, has room for up to 50 people. The fully insulated barn was completely restored in 2002, with a wine cellar added, built from materials from a 1640 church, which can fit 18 people.
In the newer buildings, from 2010, there is room for even larger groups. In the ‘new barn’, 80 people can enjoy a barbecue on the large fireplace in the middle of the room. The hosts offer grilled sausages of venison, lamb or tenderloins, accompanied by a buffet of various sides.
Tailor-made experiences for groups of all sizes
But Rekkedal is much more than a restaurant. Surrounding the farm are endless hiking and walking routes, and the hosts regularly arrange walks in the nearby area to complete the visitor experience.
“We collaborate with various guide companies that arrange hikes up the many mountains in the area. We try to facilitate everyone in the group. Especially in bigger groups, there’s always someone who wants to run and others that struggle to even get to the top,” says Rekkedal.
“Therefore, we try to organise lower-threshold walks and activities that everyone can do together, so everyone feels included. Of course, if they want tougher hikes, we can organise that too –we customise the experience for each group.”
The guest house is open all year. During the winter season, there is a separate food menu for ski groups, where skiers can end their trip with a feast. For groups travelling from other places in Norway, or even from abroad, Rekkedal can arrange boat trips across the fjord or bus transport. When businesses want to organise conferences or events – or even for weddings – guests can stay in the local town of Sæbø, and Rekkedal
arranges everything from transport, to a glass of sparkling wine on arrival and the dinner itself.
Whether it’s a business, family or group of friends looking for a cultural experience filled with history and delicious local food, Rekkedal has something for everyone. “With such a long history, I’m of course very proud to show visitors the farm and the area, and to serve our guests here. I really like how quiet and peaceful it is here – it’s a perfect break from the loud and busy lives many people lead in the bigger cities.”
www.rekkedalgjestehus.no Instagram: @rekkedalgjestehus Facebook: Rekkedalgjestehus
It’s that time of the year again. January and February may be a grey blur for many, but the design fairs in Stockholm provide an alternative gateway into a world filled with creativity, colour and vibrancy. Two different fairs, Formex and Stockholm Furniture Fair, along with Stockholm Design Week, present the best of Scandinavian design right now. We talked to the organisers to find out what’s new in 2023.
By Nina Bressler | Photos: Formex, Stockholm Furniture Fair
Formex
Is interior design your thing? It’s Formex’s too. Providing the perfect antidote to the January blues, the theme of the 2023 fair is Colour Vibes. The four days will be packed with exhibitors, tradespeople, interesting talks and exhibitions showcasing the best of design right now. Award-winning stylist Tekla Severin has created this year’s branding, along with the main exhibition.
“Formex is the most important fair for Scandinavian interior design, and this year we’re back in full force for the first time since 2020. We’re embracing the moment by filling the calendar with exciting talks from prominent designers and thought leaders to inspire the year ahead,” says project area manager Sonja Björk Ebert.
The speakers include notable authors, stylists, TV celebrities and interior de-
signers who have made their mark on the design universe. Louise Klarsten, Jan Rundgren, Frida Ramstedt, Gustav Ovland, Lena Nyholm, Evelina Galli and Ernst Kirchsteiger are just a few examples of those who will bring their visions to the stage.
The fair is the perfect meeting ground for tradespeople, ideal for buyers and
craftspeople to network and create opportunities for the future. Two awards, established by Formex, will be handed out during the fair: Design Talents and Formex Sustainability Award, the latter having been introduced for the first time in 2023.
Design Talents, which spotlights new talent, is a long-running fixture, and has been a vital springboard for many wellknown names in design. “The physical
fair is back and there’s no question of how much we, the traders and exhibitors have missed it. This is the place to learn, to be wowed, to savour great design and discover trends. It’s about bringing new, dynamic ideas into the world and we can’t wait to welcome our visitors into this hub in January,” says Björk Ebert.
Formex, 17-20 January www.formex.se Instagram: @formex.se
After a two-year hiatus, Stockholm Furniture Fair is back with a bang. The event has been recharged for 2023 with new exhibitions, exciting spaces and innovative ideas for a multisensory tour of great Scandinavian design.
Though the basic formula remains the same – the best of Scandinavian furniture and light design, presented by more than 400 exhibitors – a few exciting new features have been added. The Nude Edition is an entirely new exhibition section, consisting of smaller booths built with recycled material, made to be disassembled and recycled again.
Swedish design is being brought to the fore via various design collaborations. The 2023 Guest of Honour is the Swedish design duo Studio Front, who will bring their refined design voice to the fairgrounds. Meanwhile, design legend Jonas Bohlin has created the restau-
rant and bar, bringing his unmistakable touch to the space. Another addition, the Älvsjö Gård space, situated in an old mansion right next to the fair, will house experimental and collectible design by independent designers, makers and exhibiting design galleries.
“There is an inherent power to design. Well-applied, it can move the world in a better direction. The Stockholm Furniture Fair is a vital meeting-ground for these encounters, breeding new ideas and bringing innovation forward. Our focus is on creating a fair of the future, and we strive unwaveringly to forge a more sustainable fair in combination with cutting edge Scandinavian design,” says project area manager Hanna Nova Beatrice.
The packed schedule continues in the city centre, where Stockholm Design Week will fill the city with pop-up events and exhibitions. The department store
NK will act as the main hub, presenting its grand exhibition Made in Sweden, which focuses on local production.
Museums, shops, restaurants and galleries will contribute with unique exhibitions and guest collections, to add to the atmosphere of innovation and ground-breaking design in Stockholm this February. “More than 30,000 visitors travel to the fair and there’s no doubt that this will be tangible within the city centre, but will also add to that unique atmosphere within the fair. Stockholm is back as the Nordic capital of design, and we can’t wait to show what we have in store for its visitors,” Nova Beatrice concludes.
Stockholm Furniture Fair, 7-11 February www.stockholmfurniturefair.se
Instagram: @sthlmfurnfair
Stockholm Design Week, 6-12 February www.stockholmdesignweek.com
Instagram: @stockholmdesignweek
Lukkaroinen Architects is made up of 90 highly-qualified professionals, specialising in architecture, urbanism and interior design. For the past 40 years, the company has prided itself on providing its clients with beautiful, user-friendly architectural solutions.
By Ndéla FayeLukkaroinen Architects is, in their own words, “a design agency for creative people and ideas”. Founded in 1980 by Pekka Lukkaroinen, the agency has grown into a team of 90 employees with an array of skills and experience, and offices in Helsinki, Turku and Oulu.
Lukkaroinen Architects value a customer-focused and environmentally friendly approach in their projects.
With over 2,500 projects under their belt, Lukkaroinen Architects’ portfolio is enough to vouch for their breadth of talent and for the team’s endless am-
bition. Their projects include mainly large-scale designs in public buildings, as well as interior architecture, and the multi-talented team is always open to the idea of broadening horizons when it comes to their projects.
Broad skills, from log-building to interior architecture
The Pudasjärvi Log Campus is a perfect example of the ingenuity of their designs. The log campus is one of the largest log buildings in the world, and has become a landmark for the city that showcases local expertise in timber construction. An-
other beautiful design and an example of log-building is the Lumiareena (meaning Snow Arena) multipurpose arena in Pudasjärvi, right at the foot of the ski slopes of Iso-Syöte. The purpose of the arena is to stimulate tourism in the Syöte area, especially during the summer. The two-storey Lumiareena is home to, among other things, an arena hall and a restaurant.
Among Lukkaroinen Architects’ most notable current projects is the Laakso Joint Hospital, which is currently in construction. The Laakso Joint Hospital is part of a collaboration with three other architecture firms. In addition, Lukkaroinen has designed a number of early-years and higher-education institutions. Lukkaroinen Architects won an architectural competition for their design of Lumit High School of Arts in Kuopio in 2017. The construction of the high school, which specialises in music, dance and performing arts, was completed in autumn 2022 and serves 600 pupils.
In 2021, Lukkaroinen Architects were in charge of the interior architecture for Cafe & Bar 21, located in the centre of Rovaniemi. The café and bar is known for its savoury and sweet waffles and artisan ice creams, and the firm’s approach to the interior architecture saw a fresh, inviting and elegant ensemble filled with small design features, such as the wall panels, which are reminiscent of ice lolly sticks. The project strengthened Lukkaroinen Architects’ interest in further exploring and showcasing their interior architecture skills – be that in the form of restaurant, hotel, office or retail design, for example.
This year, Lukkaroinen Architects has taken its commitment to sustainability to another level, highlighting sustainability and the environment as one of the core values in its strategy. This is re-
flected in the agency’s current and upcoming projects, in which there will be a special focus on the circular economy. “Our promises are not lip service. When we say we will do something, we hold ourselves to a very high standard. When it comes to protecting the environment, we’ll ensure that we achieve what we’ve set out to do,” explains Meiju Granholm, director of client services and human resources at the firm.
Lukkaroinen Architects create high-level architecture, and constantly strive for environmentally friendly and sustainable solutions, as well as ethical and responsible operations. “Our design is heavily based on creative thinking – and there is no shortage of that in our team. Ideas are grown and carried throughout the design and development stages, all the way from the beginning to completion. We aim not only for aesthetically-pleasing designs, but for projects that are functional and long-lasting,” says design manager and architect Petri Pettersson.
The company intends to continue strengthening the environmental aspect in their projects. They are part of Green Building Council Finland’s Building Life-programme, which promotes minimising carbon emissions in construction. “Being environmentally-conscious is a collective effort in the entire field of design and construction. We always strive to exceed the goals given to us, and we are committed to creating beautiful,
high-quality and sustainable living environments for current and future generations,” says Pettersson.
The firm is proud of its family-business roots and its close-knit working community. Genuine care is apparent in everything Lukkaroinen Architects do, and how they treat their employees, clients or the environment. “We are passionate about being responsible and reliable partners in all our projects, regardless of their size. We also believe that our employees’ passion and happiness trickles down to our client and is reflected in our design solutions,” Granholm concludes.
www.lukkaroinen.fi
Instagram: @lukkaroinenarchitects
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There has always been a strong connection between music and visual art. Often, they inspire each other. The visual artist Morten Juvet’s latest project, Cover, is directly inspired by music and... rabbits.
By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Tomas MossMusic and art have always been a big part of Juvet’s life. When he was young, he would listen to records on the gramophone, sometimes outside, much to his neighbour’s annoyance. The neighbour did not quite appreciate Juvet’s taste in music.
Juvet has always had a passion for art. His mediums are painting, drawing and graphic art, but he has also created installations and sculptures. He is recognised nationally in Norway, where he has studied at art schools in Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim. Having debuted with a solo exhibition in Holmestrand in 1972, his career spans an impressive 50 years.
His work has been exhibited in Oslo at Høstutstillingen’s The Autumn Exhibition 13 times, the first being in 1974. The prestigious exhibition has showcased contemporary art for over a century, including that of some of Norway’s biggest artists such as Edvard Munch.
A strange coincidence Juvet found inspiration for “the painting project” Cover by going through his record collection and noticing a few songs about rabbits. “I found Pink Floyd, Jefferson Airplane, Elvis and the Swedish singer from the 1930s, Edvard Persson, who sang about a little white rabbit,” says Juvet. “I saw the four records in context and thought it was odd.” After the initial four
rabbit songs, Juvet started looking for more songs mentioning rabbits. It turned out that a surprising amount of pop and rock songs mention rabbits.
Finding a rabbit song is a bit like prospecting for gold – sifting through ordinary rocks and suddenly spotting a golden nugget. A rabbit will show up when you least expect it. Juvet uses songs in both English and Norwegian, from the last 50 years.
After ten years, Cover now consists of 60 paintings – one for each song. They all share a common form, inspired by trade union banners. They’re square, just like a record cover, but larger at 150 cm by 150 cm.
All the paintings include a rabbit quote, the band name, one or more rabbits, oak leaves and fly agaric – the poisonous red and white toadstool. The paintings may
seem simple at first glance, but they have several layers. “The oak leaves symbolise eternity and the toadstool represents escapism and intoxication,” Juvet explains.
Juvet has worked on Cover for ten years, and in that time has exhibited it in Norway and abroad. His biggest showing so far was in Silkeborg, Denmark, where 45 of the works were on display at KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad. The exhibition was on for almost four months from 2020 to 2021.
In 2018, 19 works from Cover were part of a project at Norway’s Drammen Museum, curated by museum director Åsmund Thorkildsen. For over six months, Juvet’s paintings were displayed alongside the museum’s permanent exhibition –a large collection from Nøstentangen glassworks of industrial art comprising glass, crystal, Baroque silver and painted wallpaper from the second half of the 18th century. The exhibition, in the Nøstetangen Room, looked at similarities between the old and the new.
At one with nature
Juvet lives on a farm in Holmestrand. For a long time, he ran the farm alongside his career as an artist. In all his work, nature is an important inspiration, just as rock music has inspired Cover. While his paint-
ings have graced the walls of city museums, he feels they deserve to be close to nature. In 2020, Juvet exhibited paintings, graphics and sculptures at the art gallery in the Norwegian forest museum in Elver-
um. Here, his art had found the perfect location, on the bank of the river Glomma, and with the forest just minutes away.
www.mortenjuvet.no
It’s common knowledge that herbs are bursting with health benefits, from soothing digestion to aiding sleep. At online boutique Hrista’s Herbs, the natural teas and body soaps are made from botanicals of the highest quality, and every herb is specially selected for its outstanding flavour and aroma.
By Lena Hunter | Photos: Melanie RoseHrista’s Herbs sources its botanicals from the fertile soils of Bulgaria, where the favourable climate results in plants with high concentrations of bio-active substances. “The health of the plants is where it all starts. We only use quality organic herbs. Then, we dry them naturally in the shade. It’s the best way to preserve their properties, colours and aromas,” explains Hrista’s Herbs founder Hrista Angelova.
The herbs in the nine loose-leaf teas and the natural ingredients in the six soaps are selected first and foremost for their taste and scent. “Every tea has positive effects on wellness, but I don’t actively choose strong medicinal herbs. These are infusions you can drink daily, and which are specially chosen for their delicious flavours,” says Hrista.
“The Mountain Tea is very popular. It’s an ancient infusion of a flowering plant called Sideritis. It has a beautiful flavour, and is a powerful immune-booster and anti-inflammatory,” says Hrista. “But my favourite is the Linden Blossom. I love its natural sweetness.”
Others in the collection include aromatic Pine Needle packed with vitamins and antibacterial essential oils, the distinctive and delicious Rose Tea, and premium classics like Mint and Lemon Balm.
Every tea comes with individual brewing instructions for a rich and restorative infusion, mindfully nurtured from the earth right to the cup.
For the body, mind and planet Meanwhile, the complementary range of handmade organic soaps nourish from the outside in. Just like the teas, the ingredients in the soaps are selected for their sensual qualities. The range includes Cocoa Goat Milk & Honey, Nettle & Yoghurt, and Lavender & Poppy Seed. “I love the Pumpkin, Cinnamon & Ginger soap. The scent is irresistible,” says Hrista.
The bars are wrapped in felted antibacterial and hypoallergenic wool for easy lathering, while ingredients such as shea and cocoa butter, olive oil and beeswax hydrate and protect dry winter skin. With a portion of Hrista’s Herbs profits going to non-governmental tree-planting projects in Finland and Bulgaria, this is true feel-good indulgence – good for the conscience and the planet, as well as the body.
www.hristasherbs.com Instagram: @hristasherbs Facebook: hristasherbs
Arctic Roe of Scandinavia is the pioneering producer of the world’s most unique delicacy, Black Caviar, produced without a single fish having to die. Sturgeons have become extinct and making Black Caviar without killing the fish aids in the recovery and survival of the world’s sturgeon population. A microchip is affixed to each sturgeon so its growth curve and harvests can be monitored over a decade or longer. Every second year, the females are milked for caviar, and on each caviar tin or jar sold, the name of the individual female sturgeon and the date of production are printed on a label.
The female sturgeons occupy an abandoned paper mill in southern Sweden on the banks of the massive river Lagan that empties into the North Sea. The aqua system at Arctic Roe recycles more than 99% of the daily water consumption, and on-site wells provide water for the property.
Swedish Black Caviar can be found in several Guide Michelin restaurants, fish delicacies and retail stores. It can also be ordered directly from the company.
www.arcticroe.com | info@arcticroe.com
Hailing from Sweden and now residing in Denmark, Lucky Lo is out with a fabulous new track that I’d heartily recommend you get acquainted with – I Will Always Be You. At first the song plays out unassumingly, bubbling with curious sonic eccentricities, which in themselves make for a wonderful listen. But then a gigantic pop chorus comes out of seemingly nowhere, which is where things really take off in spectacular fashion.
Icelandic duo Sycamore Tree have recently released their new album Colours – a beautiful record to lie back and luxuriate to. Amongst the soft, blissed-out moments, though, there is one standout track that is particularly enjoyable. Lately has a touch of the epic to it, despite being just over three minutes in length. The fact that the chorus and the verse sound like they’ve come from two different songs – and stunning songs,
Growing up in Sweden in the ‘80s, it seemed that all cool and desirable things came from abroad. It’s not that we didn’t have clothes, toys and books, it’s that everything appeared so very sensible and samey. In other words, so very Swedish.
I was lucky enough to have an aunt in California, who spoiled us with exotic gifts. Every Christmas, my sister and I looked forward to impractical, matching velvet dresses, next-level pop-up books and magical, incomprehensible sweets. When I say incomprehensible, I mean that literally. One Halloween, she sent us a tray of fang-themed items that we assumed were sweets, but that were just too incredible to eat. So, we didn’t.
The pièce de resistance, however, was a pair of hats in the shape of cartoon-style dogs’ heads. We’d put them on and climb
the pair of them – probably plays a large part in the bags of charm it exudes.
Swedish artist Sofia Vivere is out with a hot new tune. Hot in the sense that Loving You sounds like it’s going down a treat in the middle of a packed disco dancefloor at some point in the early ’90s. The sounds of yesterdecade we hear are intentional, according to the artist herself. And it’s obvious that she is truly passionate about that point of reference, as her vocals are splendidly in sync with the funk we all remember from that era.
Sweden’s Felicia Takman has got yet another utterly essential pop number of hers out right now. Her latest and greatest is called Dansa Fult, meaning to ‘dance ugly’. Despite its title, however, it’s most definitely got an attractive demeanour to it. And in turn, despite Felicia’s smooth tone, the song’s pro-
duction offers a pounding soundscape of electronica with a touch of ’80s rock glamour. It’s taken from Felicia’s latest EP, also recommended – En Basic Bitch, Inget Nytt, Men Fan Ändå, Ganska Snygg!
www.scandipop.co.uk
onto piles of snow to peer down at our neighbours, hoping that they’d be as impressed as we were – perhaps even confusing us for real dogs. Surprise, no one did.
Then we moved to England and things changed. Although by this point, I’d moved beyond toys and looking like a cartoon dog, I vividly remember my first New Look sale.
By Maria SmedstadNow I had access to all the cool and desirable things I’d always dreamed of. No longer was I a samey and sensible Swede. Then I grew up properly and bought my first Swedish wool garment in a UK outdoor shop. That was when I discovered that – ironically –sensible and samey Swedish had become my idea of a cool, foreign thing. And it’s warm, of course... which is greatly appreciated these days.
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.
Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden fame is also a spoken-word artist. His one-man show, which touches on stand up, is inspired by his memoir What Does This Button Do? In the second part of the evening, Dickinson will answer questions from the audience.
Kulttuuritalo, Sturenkatu 4, Helsinki www.livenation.fi
Fans of the Fab Four must not miss the Helsinki Beatles Weekend Band Competition. Three tribute bands are com-
By Hanna Heiskanen
Mindless is the latest show from the Red Nose Company.
Photo: Ekku Raikamo and Red Nose Company
–Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here!
peting for the chance to perform at the famed Kulttuuritalo, which has hosted Jimi Hendrix among others, in May, at the largest Beatles event in the Nordics. Audience members will also get to vote for their favourite.
Ala-Malmin tori 1, Helsinki www.beatlesweekend.fi
Red Nose Company: Mindless (26 January to 4 February)
Red Nose Company combines theatre and clownery to tell stories from the moving to the hilarious. Their new show, titled Mindless, is about the journey of two characters, a tired mother and a meditating psychotherapist, towards enlightenment and a better life. Recommended for audiences aged 14 and above.
Kanneltalo, Klaneettitie 5, Helsinki www.rednose.fi
(until 29 January)
There is still time in January to catch Modeerna Museet Malmö’s 2022 collection exhibition Conditioned Movement, which creates new dialogues between artworks from the past 100-plus years.
It’s a collaboration between curator Andreas Nilsson and the duo Gideonsson/ Londré, the latter having also contributed a new piece for the exhibition.
Ola Billgrens plats 2–4, Malmö www.modernamuseet.se
Copenhagen Fashion Week (31 January to 3 February)
Scandi folk are famous for their great sense of style, and Copenhagen Fashion Week, or CPHFW among the initiated, is an excellent opportunity to observe some of the most sartorially talented people in action.
Venues around Copenhagen www.copenhagenfashionweek.com
Copenhagen Light Festival (4 to 27 February)
The fifth edition of the Copenhagen Light Festival is a great opportunity to explore the city whilst checking out the large variety of light installations. There will also be an opportunity to join a guid-
ed tour by foot. Or, why not try by Segway or canal boat?
Venues around Copenhagen www.copenhagenlightfestival.org
Light over Sea and Land: The Önningeby Colony on Åland (until 26 March)
The Åland Islands, located in the Batic Sea between Finland and Sweden, celebrated 100 years of autonomy in 2022. The Waldemarsudde Art Museum in Stockholm has put up an exhibition showcasing works by a 19th-century group of artists living on the islands. The paintings feature landscapes depicting rural life, as well as portraits.
Prins Eugensväg 6, Stockholm www.waldemarsudde.se
Copenhagen Fashion Week. Photo: Victor Jones
Copenhagen light festival.
Cover Photo
Claes Bech-Poulsen
Contributors
Alejandra Cerda Ojensa
Andri Papanicolas
Åsa Hedvig Aaberge
Celina Tran
Emma Rodin
Eva-Kristin Urestad Pedersen
Hanna Andersson
Hanna Heiskanen
Hanna Margrethe Enger
Heidi Kokborg
John Sempill
Karl Batterbee
Linda Thompson
Malin Norman Mari Koskinen
Maria Smedstad
Molly McPharlin
Ndéla Faye
Nina Bressler
Philip Denvir Silvia Colombo
Synne Johnsson
Tina Nielsen
Trine Jensen-Martin
Xander Brett
Emma Fabritius Nørregaard
Johan Enelycke
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