Scan Magazine, Issue 173, December 2024

SCAN MAGAZINE

ROOTS

Future favours the bold.

We accomplished a world first in merging a workplace & hotel

It started with one thought: how could we combine hospitality and workspace better, in a more sustainable way? From that spark, VALO was born.

Imagine a place where hotel rooms transform into offices, adapting seamlessly to meet the needs of day and night. VALO expands the concept of a blend between hotel and office; it’s a bold reimagining of workspace and hospitality – a step towards the future.

Sustainably designed with quality and purpose. Made for people and businesses.

VALO Hotel & Work – Sleep, work and relax.

www.valo.fi/en

Editor’s Note

Dear Reader,

It’s that time of year. December is upon us and we all know what this means – plenty of opportunities for festivities. Advent, the Nobel Prize banquet (if you’re lucky to attend, or more likely you will watch it on TV), Lucia, Christmas and New Year’s celebrations – it’s a month of treats aplenty, and so is this issue.

Our cover star this month is famous chef Rachel Khoo, who now has Sweden as her base. She’s one of my favourite chefs and I remember watching her TV series The Little Paris Kitchen some years ago, when she was cooking up amazing dishes in her tiny kitchen in Paris. We’re in luck as in this feature, Rachel also shares two of the recipes from her book The Little Swedish Kitchen.

We have lots more tasty content for you, including a lowdown on mulled wine. In the food column, you will find chewy caramel candies to try ahead of Christmas, and in my beer column I elaborate on cuddly winter beers – they will put a smile on your face even as Mariah Carey is blasting out her Christmas tune for the millionth time.

December is very much about food and tipples, to be enjoyed with family, friends, colleagues and others, but it’s also about getting a taste of our winter wonderland. Perhaps the first snow has already made an appearance where you are, or should be on its way very soon.

Personally, I love it when it’s snowing for the first time in winter. Did you know that you can actually smell the snow? I’m certain of it, you can feel it in the air, the anticipation grows and finally you can see the first fluffy snowflakes slowly descend, and then enjoy the calming, comforting silence that follows. Let’s hope for a snowy and peaceful winter wonderland.

Enjoy our festive December issue!

Malin Norman, Editor

SCAN MAGAZINE

In this issue

COVER FEATURE

8 Rachel Khoo: the globetrotter who grew roots in Sweden

Famous chef, best-selling cookbook author and TV presenter Rachel Kho has fallen in love with Sweden and its rich culinary culture. In this feature, she also shares two delicious recipes from her book The Little Swedish Kitchen.

DESIGN

14 Light up your home in December

Check out six modern takes on classic Scandinavian advent candlesticks and candle holders –they are sure to add a warm atmosphere and light up your home. We also explore handmade designs inspired by the nature of the Faroe Islands.

LIFESTYLE AND FOOD

22 Chewy caramel candies and cuddles in a glass

This month, our food columnist Sofia Nordgren makes soft, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth caramels – bound to sail up to the top of your list of delicious Christmas treats. And beer sommelier Malin

Norman recommends cuddly winter beers to put a smile on your face.

SPECIAL FEATURE

24 Mulled wine: a lowdown on the Christmas tipple

Swedes consume around five million litres of mulled wine every year. As they celebrate the day of mulled wine, we give you a lowdown on all things glögg. 42

SPECIAL THEMES

38 Sweden – Your Winter Destination!

With a range of fantastic resorts and reliable snow coverage, Sweden provides great value for winter travellers. Don’t miss our guide for a dreamlike Swedish winter experience.

50 Made in Norway

Tradition and modernity can go hand-in-hand. Here, we highlight some of Norway’s leaders in innovation, including technology for monitoring fish health, concrete products for outdoor spaces, and carbon credits.

MINI THEMES

60 Guide to Svalbard

Fascinated by Svalbard, one of the world’s northernmost locations, in our mini guide we feature a sporting institution that embodies resilience and community, and bespoke tours by and for skiers.

66 Guide to Lapland

In need of a getaway in untouched wilderness?

Check out this guide and find out about Lapland’s essence. We explore reindeer, Northern Lights, and Sámi traditions.

CULTURE

116 The best new events, film and music in Scandinavia

In this month’s Culture Calendar, music columnist Karl Batterbee looks at Christmas music in Scandinavia, film enthusiast Anders Lorenzen highlights the Danish phenomenon julekalender, and illustrator Gabi Froden curses soggy crackerbread.

Fashion Diary

December has finally arrived, and with it comes the cold and the darkness. While many of us would perhaps rather slip into hibernation, the festive season offers many beautiful sights and experiences. To make the best of the month, layer up with these incredible pieces.

By Celina Tran | Press photos

Selbuhusflidscentral – Leaf mittens with Sjennros

You might be aware of the classic Norwegian Selburose or Sjennrose, but did you know that there are other variants of this knitting pattern? Based in the heart of Selbu’s knitting kingdom, Selbuhusflidscentral offer a wide range of knitting products. A classic mitten is naturally a winter staple. Whether you want to keep your own hands warm or find the perfect Christmas present for someone who has everything, these mittens are bound to be loved.

Leaf mittens with Sjennros, 550 NOK www.selbuhusflidscentral.com

COS – Chunky pure cashmere turtleneck jumper

The creeping cold has finally swallowed us, which means ‘tis the season for layering. This chunky cashmere turtleneck from COS has a relaxed fit, making it perfect for that biting Arctic weather. Made from 100 per cent Good Cashmere Standard®, this jumper goes well with many things, for instance, a handknit triangle scarf will elevate its elegance.

Chunky pure cashmere turtleneck jumper, 275 EUR www.cos.com

Acne – Mohair checked scarf in white/grey/royal blue

In the biting cold, there’s no better way to warm up than with a good quality scarf. Acne’s mohair checked scarf comes in a variety of colours, but if you want to reflect the beautiful colours of the Scandinavian winter, this one in white, grey and royal blue is perfect. Mohair checked scarf in white/grey/royal blue, 350 USD www.acnestudios.com

Malene Birger – Ronlas leather shoulder bag in bison

A feminine take on the classic briefcase, this Malene Birger piece is not only chic, but also offers a wide range of usage. The croco-embossed leather gives a luxurious look, elevating every outfit you match it with.

Ronlas leather shoulder bag in bison, 1,100 EUR www.bymalenebirger.com

O.A. Devold – O.A.D. mittens

Sick and tired of that gap between the sleeve and the mittens? Don’t worry. With O.A. Devold’s elongated mittens, your wrists and arms will no longer be victims of the Nordic winter cold. Knitted in a rib pattern, these alpaca wool blend mittens will keep all your digits warm and comfortable.

O.A.D. mittens, 150 EUR www.oadevold.com

Berg & Berg – Bruno cashmere/wool polo in taupe

Made from cashmere and merino wool, this classic polo offers a soft, luxurious, and comfortable feel. The polo can be paired with a wide range of trousers to dress up or down the outfit, perfect for days at the office, on date nights, and the upcoming Christmas season. For a casual yet elegant look, match with cream jeans or khakis and a pair of loafers, and don’t forget to accessorize with some gold jewellery to elevate the outfit!

Bruno cashmere/wool polo in taupe, 345 EUR www.bergbergstore.com

Saks Pott – Ada jacket in distressed almond

Ada doubles as two different jackets with one side in shearling and the reverse in leather. With a boxy fit, this unisex jacket will keep you cosy and looking cool in the winter weather.

Ada jacket in distressed almond, 1,800 EUR www.sakspotts.com

Soft Goat – Balaclava in black

While they often go unnoticed during other seasons, your ears and neck are some of the most exposed body parts in cold temperatures. Protect yourself with a chunky cashmere balaclava from Soft Goat.

Balaclava in black, 165 EUR www.softgoat.com

Rachel Khoo: the globetrotter who grew roots in Sweden

There can be few places that Rachel Khoo has neither visited nor called home. The cook, best-selling cookbook author and TV presenter was born in England to an Austrian mother and a Malaysian father. By way of France and Germany, she settled in Sweden several years ago, falling quickly in love with her new surroundings and its rich culinary culture.

By Xander Brett | Photos: David Loftus (from The Little Swedish Kitchen)

For such a well-seasoned traveller, adjusting to a new Swedish environment was something that Khoo, surely, took comfortably in her stride. “The hardest adjustment for me, and the one that I still struggle with a bit, is winter,” she admits.

With Sweden having fallen into its colder months by now, Khoo will need to wait a while for nature to reawaken. “The darkness can be particularly challenging,” she says. “I travel to London almost every month, and when I go in February it feels like a mini holiday to see daffodils starting to bloom in the parks.”

A home away from Stockholm

The renowned cook married a Swede some years ago and this is where she is now bringing up her three children. Khoo has recently transferred to her new base, about an hour north of Malmö, after residing in the capital for years. “Living in a seaside village, it’s a special treat to enjoy the beach before crowds of holidaymakers arrive,” she says, “It feels like a peaceful, private escape, and the calm before the summer bustle is magical. The area is incredibly picturesque, with colourful beach huts lining the shoreline. While it’s

a popular summer destination for people from Stockholm, it still maintains a vibrant, year-round community life.”

Khoo spent her early Stockholm years in Hornstull, before moving further out into the suburbs. “It was a charming neighbourhood with lots of apple trees,” says Khoo of her previous suburban base. “I lived in an English-style terrace house built at the turn of the 20th century. These houses are painted in soft pastel tones, giving the area a quaint atmosphere.”

Stockholm and southern Sweden formed the frequent backdrop to Khoo’s My Swedish Kitchen series, which was first aired by Food Network in 2019. It saw her travelling to a plethora of gastronomic hotspots and followed the publication of The Little Swedish Kitchen, Khoo’s book featuring over 100 recipes.

“It was an incredible experience,” says Khoo of filming the series. “With all my cooking shows, I’m deeply involved in both the research and the production processes. It was essential for me to highlight a diverse range of passionate food producers, cooks and restauranteurs.”

The Swedish flour power Immersing herself in both projects also allowed Khoo to unearth a variety of local ingredients, including the hearty flours used in baking. “These flours create some incredible breads, not to mention the iconic knäckebröd,” she muses. “I always miss Swedish crackers when I’m abroad. If I have space in my suitcase and

I’m away for a while, I make sure to bring a few packets with me.”

Khoo may well have tucked some into her luggage a few months ago as she jetted down under to film another series of The Great Australian Bake Off. When asked if it is discombobulating to swap Sweden for Sydney, she exclaims “It definitely is! But it’s also wonderful.”

“Going in August as the Swedish summer is winding down and Sydney’s spring is just beginning feels like the best of both worlds,” Khoo continues. “Spring in Sydney is like a perfect Swedish summer, so it feels like I’m getting an extended summer, which is such a treat.”

Alongside international filming commitments, Khoo’s other projects include curating Les Petits Pleasures, a Substack launched earlier this year. “I’ve been really enjoying the direct connection it gives me with readers,” she says. “It feels

a bit like blogging did back in the 2000s, which is how I first got into recipe writing. It has been wonderful to return to that more personal way of sharing content.”

France and Sweden have a cultural affinity

Khoo rose to fame in Paris, where she ran a restaurant in her tiny Belleville apartment. The phenomenon inspired a BBC television series, The Little Paris Kitchen: Cooking with Rachel Khoo, and a book titled The Little Paris Kitchen, published in 2012.

“I’d say French culture has a lot in common with Swedish culture, especially when it comes to the work-life balance,” Khoo theorises. “Both cultures value the importance of enjoying life beyond work, though nothing beats the Scandinavian approach to family life. The emphasis on family time and the generous parental leave policies really set it apart and create strong foundations for a balanced life.”

Cardamom bun bombe

Serves 6-8

Vegetarian

Prep time: 30 mins

Cooking time: 10 mins

Freezing time: 4 hours

Equipment: Medium sized bowl (capacity 1.5 litres)

If you happen to have day-old, slightly stale buns lying around, this is a good way of using them up. I’ve also made this dessert using bought buns when I’ve been short of time and need a quick and easy dessert for a dinner party.

INGREDIENTS

200g golden or date syrup

200g caster sugar

2 tsp ground cardamom

½ tsp fine sea salt

300ml double cream

2 litres good-quality vanilla ice cream 12-14 shop bought cardamom or cinnamon buns

RECIPE

Start by making a caramel. Pour the syrup into a large, heavy-based pan, followed by the sugar, cardamom and salt. Place on a hot heat. Swirl the pot around every minute or so to help incorporate the sugar. Once the caramel starts to simmer, cook for a further 5 minutes or until a dark golden brown. Take off the heat. Gradually incorporate the cream – be careful, as the mixture will splutter and rise. Fill a bowl with water and ice, place the caramel pot on top of the ice and leave to cool.

Take the ice cream out of the freezer and put into the fridge to soften slightly.

Line your medium-sized bowl with cling film, leaving some excess to fold over the top to cover. Cut the cardamom buns in half and place some of them cut side down in the bowl, so the bowl sides are fully covered.

Beat the softened ice cream and swirl in a third of the cooled caramel. Set aside the rest for serving. Spoon the ice cream into the bowl and press it down. Cover the ice cream with the remainder of the bun halves. Wrap with the excess cling film and freeze for at least 4 hours.

To serve, take the bombe out of the freezer 15 minutes before serving. Open up the cling film at the top, place a serving plate over the bowl and turn upside down. Remove the cling film and leave to thaw slightly. Right before serving, pour over the remainder of the caramel sauce.

Top tips: Use a knife run under hot water to cut the bombe. Cardamom can be replaced with other spices, such as cinnamon, ground ginger and allspice.

The Little Swedish Kitchen by Rachel Khoo is published by Penguin Michael Joseph, priced £20. Photography (c) David Loftus.

White chocolate and berry coconut mountains (kokostoppar)

Makes 20 Vegetarian/Gluten Free

Prep time: 20 mins

Baking time: 30-35 mins

Traditionally these coconut treats are densely packed just with coconut, but upon burning half my coconut while toasting it I ended up improvising with sesame seeds and ground almonds, only to discover how delicious these nutty additions are. The berries on top lend a bit of tartness, which balances the sweetness from the white chocolate and makes for a pretty little pink peak.

INGREDIENTS

100g golden caster sugar

½ tsp fine sea salt

Zest of 1 lemon

120g butter

200g desiccated coconut

150g sesame seeds

50g ground almonds

3 medium eggs

350g white chocolate

125g lingonberries or redcurrants

RECIPE

Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6.

Put the sugar, salt, lemon zest and butter into a saucepan and melt over a medium heat. Set aside.

Pour the coconut onto a large tray lined with baking paper and place in the oven for 5 minutes or until fairly well toasted. Keep a close watch, and stir the coconut occasionally to toast it evenly. When the coconut is ready, take out of the oven and pour into a large bowl with the sesame seeds and ground almonds. Mix together, then pour in the melted butter and mix again. Add the eggs, then stir together until everything is well combined. Leave to cool slightly.

Line a baking tray with baking paper. Form the mixture into 20 small pyramids (about 4cm high and 5cm in diameter) and set on the lined tray. Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until slightly golden on the peaks and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and leave to cool on a wire rack while melting the chocolate.

Break up the chocolate and put into a small heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Leave to melt, stirring occasionally. Once the chocolate has melted, dip the cakes into it and top each one with 3–4 berries of your choice.

Top tips: Dip in chocolate while the macaroons are still warm, as the chocolate will run down them better. White chocolate can be replaced with dark or totally omitted if you want to keep it simple.

Get ahead: These keep for several days in an airtight container.

The Little Swedish Kitchen by Rachel Khoo is published by Penguin Michael Joseph, priced £20. Photography (c) David Loftus.

Swedish food is finding new fans Sweden might have some ground to cover before its culinary reputation catches up with that of France, but Khoo has noticed a growing worldwide awareness of Swedish gastronomy over the past decade or so. She believes this is partly thanks to the work of Magnus Nilsson, whose restaurant Fäviken enthralled a steady stream of international guests from the late 2000s until its closure around half a decade back.

In the summer of 2012, Khoo completed a two-week stage at the Jämtland destination. “Magnus has written extensively about the history and cultural significance of Swedish cuisine,” she explains. “Meanwhile, the global popularity of fika has helped bring Swedish baking to the international stage.”

Interest in Swedish cuisine extends all the way to Singapore, where Khoo’s relatives made a special trip to a newly opened IKEA to try its meatballs. “What really surprised me was when my book was translated into Japanese,” she says. “My TV show also aired on one of Japan’s national channels, and I even did a press tour there, hosting events, including one at the Swedish Embassy. It has been incredible to see enthusiasm for Swedish cuisine in such a different part of the world.”

Now a rightful (if unofficial) Swedish food ambassador, Khoo is determined to fly a flag for the culinary culture of her adopted homeland. Khoo may be frequently gallivanting to other corners of the globe, but this adventurer can always find her way back to Sweden’s quiet coastline.

To follow Rachel Khoo’s culinary adventures, check out her website and social media.

www.rachelkhoo.com

Substack: rachelkhoo.substack.com

Facebook: Rachel Khoo

Instagram: @rachelkhooks

We Love This: December 2024

Now is the time to add that warm and welcoming atmosphere to your home. Check out these modern takes on classic Scandinavian advent candlesticks and candle holders. No doubt, they will light up your room and your mood.

By Malin Norman | Press photos

Adventure by Ateljé Lyktan

This stylish advent candlestick from Ateljé Lyktan is designed by Eric Douglas and Olle Lundberg. It’s a modern version of a classic with a simple and clean look that will work in harmony with your home. Available in graphic black and white, and in three sizes; with three, seven, or nine arms.

Adventure 9-arms 770 GBP, 7-arms 577 GBP, 3-arms 273 GBP www.ateljelyktan.se

Noel by Globen Lighting

A playful take on the traditional advent candlestick, Noel by Globen Lighting has a soft, curved design with metal tubes that are bent by hand at different levels. Undoubtedly, this will look fabulous anywhere. Noel is available in green and red, with five or seven lights.

Noel 7 197 EUR, Noel 5 164 EUR www.globenlighting.com

Träd by Granit

The elegant Träd by Granit brings a warm Christmas atmosphere to your home. The Scandinavian design will look good anywhere; in the living room window, on the shelves with your Nordic Noir books, or on the dinner table. For a more dynamic look, mix and match different sizes and colours. Available in untreated wood, dark green and dark red, with five or seven lights.

Träd 7 999 SEK, Träd 5 799 SEK www.granit.com

Kubus by Mogens Lassen for Audo Copenhagen

Add a true design classic to your home with the iconic candle holder Kubus by Mogens Lassen for Audo Copenhagen. This minimalistic design dates back to 1962 and is still made in Denmark. Kubus comes in a range of metals and finishes, including black, white and olive, and in different sizes. Kubus 4, from 175 EUR www.audocph.com

Candle Holder Circle by Ferm Living

For a cosy, homely atmosphere, go for this circle candle holder from Danish brand Ferm Living. Made from solid brass with a matt finish, you can place it on the table or hang it from the ceiling. Also, it can be decorated whichever way you want, so is suitable for any time of year. Available in brass and black brass, in sizes small and large.

Candle Holder Circle large 799 DKK, small 499 DKK www.fermliving.dk

Luna by Watt & Veke

Watt & Veke is a Swedish brand that designs and manufactures stylish quality lighting. One of its trendy products for design lovers is Luna, a sleek advent candlestick in metal that will add character to any window display, or as here placed on the mantelpiece. Available in white, chrome and black. Luna, 1,799 SEK www.wattveke.se

Exceptional handmade designs inspired by the nature of the Faroe Islands

In a world of constantly changing fashions and shifting moods it is refreshing to come across genuine craftsmanship and original ideas. Creating beautiful pieces made to be cherished for years, Fosaa Designs takes its inspiration from the magnificent and untamed nature of the Faroe Islands, and in every way stays true to its commitment to slow fashion.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: Fosaa Designs

Housed in Hoyvík, this small independent artisan company creates bespoke handbags, purses and jewellery. The two women behind Fosaa Designs are Malan and Oda Fosaa, a close-knit mother and daughter team, who run all aspects of the business together. Every piece in the collection is of the highest quality and truly one of a kind, skilfully designed, created and handmade by the pair.

Malan learnt how to sew and work with animal skins and leather in Sønderborg, Denmark. When she finished her education there, she returned to the Faroe Islands and took up an apprenticeship in the

timber trade. After 40 years and at the age of 54, she quit her job and started Fosaa Designs in 2012. She made a decision to

work with materials found on her native island and to create something new. “I started the business with a wish to create something that no one else does here on the Faroe Islands,” she explains.

She was clearly on to a good thing because her bags were an instant success and ever since her first line was introduced, she has continued to sell every single item produced. Her daughter Oda joined in 2013, and the pair have continued to develop a very successful and independent brand of distinctive, local designs. “I don’t want to create our products anywhere else,” says Malan.

Fosaa Designs has been approached by several other companies keen to invest in a growing business and to increase manufacturing, but mother and daughter choose to keep it in-house, and have no desire to expand or outsource their production.

Natural Nordic materials

“We consider the colours and trends around us when we start thinking about new designs,” Oda says. “And then we go through the process of creating and producing new items together.” They create each product jointly, from the initial design to the finished product, and with a firm handle on every step of the process. All materials are natural Nordic skins and natural by-products of other industries.

Fosaa Designs offers stunning pieces inspired by the beautiful nature on the Faroe Islands, from the rugged mountains to the rolling landscapes, from the wild sea to the vast skies. Each piece is truly one of a kind, and whilst Malan and Oda may remake a model if it is particularly popular, such as the best seller Belt Bag No10, due to the nature of the raw materials, each piece is by definition exclusive and unlike any other.

The pair uses skin from local lamb and fish, such as salmon, cod, and catfish, and sealskins from Greenland. There is no tannery on the Faroe Islands, so the lamb skins are sent to Poland and the fish skins to Iceland, where they are treated and prepared for Malan and Oda to use.

The fish skins are both used as they come, with incredible, intricate and almost inimitable striking patterns, or

coloured using natural dies. No chemicals are used in the colouring or treatment process, so each piece is 100 per cent natural. “The salmon skin is incredibly strong and durable, making it the ideal material for bags and purses made to last,” explains Malan.

Some bags are made using a combination of skins, for example seal, salmon and cod, which each have their distinctive texture and colour, helping to create an illusion of the rugged and exquisite landscapes of the Faroe Islands. “We work very much with a slow fashion outlook and focus,”

Oda says. The skins and raw materials are expensive and each bespoke item is made with a specific purpose to be used. There is no mass production and never will be, and as Malan says; “it’s just more special if it’s handmade.”

By the very nature of the materials, no bag, purse, or set of jewellery will ever look the same. The skins and variations in colour and texture differ, just as much as we all differ from one another. Each item is skilfully crafted by hand and truly is a product of nature, meant to be used and appreciated for many years.

You can buy Fosaa Designs’ products on the website or in the Östrøm Faroese Design Store.

www.fosaadesign.com Facebook: Fosaa Instagram: @fosaa_design

The next generation of hotels

In a world where work and travel are increasingly blending, a next-generation concept is reshaping the industry with multipurpose spaces that combine hotel, office and leisure in one. Welcome to the future of business, connectivity, and sustainability.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: VALO Hotel & Work

Designed for a mobile, tech-savvy workforce, VALO Hotel & Work in Helsinki allows travellers and local professionals alike to work, meet and relax in one eco-friendly, resource-efficient location.

The concept originated when a frustrated business traveller noticed the inconvenience and inefficiency of business hotels, offices and meeting centres being scattered across cities. It was not just a matter of inconvenience; it was a waste of space and resources.

Hannu Holma, co-founder and CEO, explains; “We noticed that hotels, offices, and meeting centres had virtually identical facilities, yet they were often

empty while another building was being used. It felt like a massive waste of resources.” The solution: a multifunctional hotel-workspace that reimagines how spaces are used, merging hotel rooms, coworking areas and meeting facilities in a single sustainable building.

More than a workspace

VALO Hotel & Work is conveniently located right next to several public transport options by Helsinki Central Park, and close to all major event centres and within easy reach from the airport. And for environmentally conscious travellers and professionals, VALO offers a compelling, sustainable alternative to traditional hotels and office buildings.

From private rooms equipped with standing desks and ergonomic seating to collaborative open spaces perfect for brainstorming sessions, VALO can adapt to suit both solo workers and collaborative teams. Every aspect of the space is designed with the user experience in mind, making it easy for guests to stay productive and comfortable without needing to leave the building.

This next-generation hotel illustrates a forward-thinking model that addresses climate concerns, without sacrificing convenience or comfort. All hotel rooms

are designed with guests’ needs in mind, ranging from cosy studio rooms to deluxe rooms to provide a bit of everyday luxury.

A trailblazer, VALO provides a balanced, all-encompassing experience for travellers and locals. Amenities such as onsite restaurants, coworking facilities, café, rooftop terrace, and wellness centre offer spaces where guests can relax, recharge, or make valuable connections.

VALO’s restaurants are open from sunrise to sundown. Bistro ELO tempts with a cosy atmosphere and delicious Nordic flavours for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For a more relaxed vibe, Lounge & Bar SUO has a warm, inviting oasis with a Nordic twist. Here, guests can savour bites from the bistro kitchen, enjoy refreshing cocktails with friends, or settle in for a productive remote work day.

“VALO is a warm and welcoming place, where it’s easy to just come and spend some time, for a bit of rest and relaxation, to work for the day, to try out excellent food made from high-quality ingredients, or to enjoy a drink at our lounge bar,” says Holma.

Maximising use and enjoyment

At the heart of VALO Hotel & Work is an intentional commitment to sustainability. By combining multiple functions under one roof, the building significantly reduces its carbon footprint compared to single-purpose structures. The space itself adapts to meet different needs: hotel rooms can double as offices during the

day, meeting rooms can be transformed into event spaces, and common areas transition smoothly from networking zones to casual lounges.

“This flexibility minimises the need for multiple constructions, cutting down on energy consumption, emissions, and waste,” explains Minna Hurme, head of design. “The impact is significant when considering that the building industry has been one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions.”

VALO Hotel & Work combines functions into a single, intelligently designed facility, and makes the most out of every square metre, avoiding underutilised spaces and the need to construct additional sites. Professionals can flow easily between private work, team meetings and networking events, thanks to stateof-the-art technology that supports

virtual conferences, presentations, and seamless global communication. This adaptability gives a significant advantage over standard hotels or coworking centres, allowing professionals to maximise productivity without relocating between different facilities.

This is just the beginning. With expansion plans across Europe and beyond, the goal is to set a new global standard for sustainable, multi-use spaces that meet the evolving needs of modern professionals. “This isn’t just about offering a new kind of workspace, it’s about pioneering a change in how buildings are designed, used and enjoyed for generations to come,” Holma concludes.

www.valo.fi

Facebook: VALO Hotel & Work

Instagram: @valohotelwork

LinkedIn: VALO Hotel & Work

Bridging connections across the North Atlantic shores

NORA unites remote, coastal communities across the North Atlantic by supporting projects that spark innovation, strengthen local economies, and bring people together. From celebrating young culinary talents to regenerative tourism, NORA strengthens the bond between these regions.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: NORA

For nearly three decades, NORA (Nordic Atlantic Cooperation) has worked on strengthening the bonds between the North Atlantic’s coastal communities.

Representing the Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, and coastal Norway, NORA addresses the challenges and opportunities of these Nordic regions.

“The collaboration emerged from the need to support regions defined by their reliance on the sea, remote locations, and small populations. Recognising these shared traits, NORA operates through three key pillars to strengthen the bond; project support, agenda-setting, and alliance-building,” explains Halla Nolsøe Poulsen, director of NORA. Thanks to the focus on building alliances, NORA also has partnerships with similar communities in Scotland, Canada, and the US.

One of the core focuses for NORA is inspiring young people in these remote regions. Recently NORA has supported Artic Young Chef, a competition open to young chefs aged 18 to 30. The event highlights the region’s culinary scene and brings together foodies from Iceland, Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Norway. “We encouraged the young chefs to innovate while honouring local traditions and showcase Nordic Atlantic flavours. For many, it was also an opportunity to build careers,” smiles Poulsen.

Another inspiring project NORA has initiated is Generation North Atlantic, a gathering where young people from the member countries collaborate, network, and explore ways to address regional challenges. “We showed the participants how start-up projects could involve transforming unused spaces into cultural

hubs and creating opportunities for sustainable tourism,” says Poulsen.

NORA follows a four-year strategy that ends this year, and the next strategy is nearly ready. The organisation continues to focus on youth, but they also want to focus on the silver economy, perhaps through mentorship programmes where the older generation can share their wisdom and knowledge with the younger generations. Moreover, they wish to see projects that encourage the use of local resources and for the region to become more self-reliant, reducing import dependency and through that strengthening the economies of the regions.

“In alignment with this, NORA also wishes to focus on regenerative tourism, where visitors leave a positive impact on the places they visit. They leave it a little bit better than they found it,” says Poulsen. NORA is also looking at how artificial intelligence can support and enhance regional development, ensuring the sustainability, innovation, and resilience of these remote Nordic communities.

www.nora.fo

The Swedish School with room for all

With over 20 years of teaching excellence, the Swedish School in Marbella has expanded its popular offering with a brand-new international curriculum. A school within a school, this new programme is approved by Cambridge International Education and is open to both Swedish and international children as a means to grow and excel.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Svenska Skolan Marbella

The Swedish School, which has been a cornerstone for Swedish-speaking children on Costa del Sol in Spain for over two decades, is widely recognised for its high-quality education. Starting off with only a handful of students, this thriving school is the educational home to over 200 children whose families live and work in the Marbella area. In line with this growth, the new international curriculum has been launched as a bridge for secondary students to continue their studies in English within a vibrant Swedish environment.

Having closed this gap in the market, CEO Isabel Saunders-Lagrillière explains; “parents value a Swedish-taught curriculum when their children are young, but this changes as the teenage years hit. Generally, the parents then want more structure to help prepare their children

for the next step in life, such as studying in the EU, which is why an international programme became important to us.”

As with the school’s other offerings, international classes, which are kept small, are run by professional and committed staff within a positive, warm and supportive environment. And although the new programme runs classes in English, the team will continue to emphasise Swedish language and culture while promoting global awareness.

“Located in Marbella, our school offers a unique environment with great opportunities for cultural and social exchange,” says Saunders-Lagrillière. “We’re thrilled to have finally launched our international leg and can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

The new international programme offers:

• Globally recognised education: Equip children with the skills and knowledge to excel in our interconnected world.

• Native English-speaking team: Benefit from the expertise and support of dedicated, nativespeaking educators.

• Small classes: Enjoy personalised attention and a tailored learning experience to each student’s needs.

• Swedish community: Allow kids to be immersed in a supportive and culturally enriching setting.

• Flexibility: Students have the option to study Swedish as an additional subject, obtaining grades to study at a Swedish high school too.

• Wellbeing and safety: These pillars are the school’s top priorities, ensuring a nurturing and secure environment.

www.svenskaskolanmarbella.com

Facebook: Svenska Skolan Marbella

Instagram: @svenskaskolanmarbella

Caramel candies

No Christmas without homemade candy, isn’t that true? It’s tasty, of course, but to me, the making of it is probably what means the most. Listening to Christmas music, making a mess in the kitchen and letting the kids help (and taste) along the way. Hopefully, there is snow outside the window, and the home is decorated with all things Christmas. These soft, chewy, melt-inyour-mouth caramels are on top of my list of delicious Christmas treats. They have the perfect balance between sugar and salt, especially if you sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top. And of course you can add some saffron to make them even more Christmas-y.

By Sofia Nordgren

Ingredients:

50 g margarine

270 g caster sugar

140 g maple syrup

300 ml whippable plant cream

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp bourbon vanilla powder

Flavouring:

To make chocolate caramels, add 3 tbsp cacao

To make saffron caramels, add 1 g saffron

Instruction:

1. Add all ingredients to a saucepan.

2. Bring to a boil and let simmer over medium heat until the batter has reached a temperature of about 125°C. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop 1/2 tsp of the batter into a glass with cold water. If done, you can turn the batter into a firm ball.

3. Line a pan (about 15x20 cm) with parchment paper.

4. Pour the batter into the pan and let cool for 10-15 minutes, then sprinkle sea salt on top. Let cool completely at room temperature, this takes about 4 hours.

5. Cut caramels with a sharp knife and wrap in paper.

6. Store in room temperature, they will be good for about a week.

Winner of the best Regional Cookbook at the Guild of Food Writers Awards 2022, Sofia Nordgren lives with her family in a small town in Sweden, working as a photographer, content creator and plant-based cookbook author. Cooking and baking have always been a hobby of hers and on top of that, she has a passion for nature, gardening and slow, seasonal living. Foggy mornings, cinnamon buns, and playing with her kids are among her favourite things in life. Sofia Nordgren also runs the successful blog, The Nordic Kitchen.

Cuddles to warm you up in the cold

By Malin Norman

Winter beers, or from now on always cuddles in a glass in my mind, make an appearance as the cold weather and the Christmas season approach. They tend to be dark, strong and spiced – think seasonings such as cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg, as well as dried or dark fruit, and sometimes orange peel – with a suitably warming (and cuddly) sensation. They might even remind you of Christmas cookies or pudding – in a glass.

certainly beers to be enjoyed slowly, no need to rush. If you’re a romantic, picture yourself snuggled up by an open fire, in a log cabin on the slope, with a blanket and soft music in the background. It’s probably snowing outside as well.

Or if you’re not such a romantic after all, you might be sitting in a packed pub with your mates, complaining about annoying things such as the unbearable Christmas music in the shops – how many times do you have to listen to All I Want For Christmas Is You? In any case, romantic or not, you deserve a treat (and a cuddle) so why not go for a winter beer – to brighten up your mood a little? For sure,

As with all things Christmas, winter beers are a form of indulgence. The rich and smooth beers bring a somewhat pleasant feeling of decadence – naughty yet elegant, kind of grown-up. These are When I met up with a beer sommelier colleague in Norwich recently, we talked about winter beers, also called winter warmers or Christmas beers. “Oh I always call them cuddles in a glass,” she chuckled. Cheryl is a brilliant source of information, especially on beer and food, and she told me that funnily enough, ‘cuddle-me-buff’ is actually an old term for beer. Who can resist a cuddle, especially in the winter cold?

it will make you smile, in the dark and cold December.

Malin Norman is a Certified Cicerone®, a certified beer sommelier, an international beer judge and a member of the British Guild of Beer Writers.

Mulled wine: a lowdown on the popular Swedish Christmas tipple

Swedes consume around five million litres of mulled wine every year. As Sweden celebrates the day of mulled wine on 1 December, we give you a lowdown on all things glögg.

By Malin Norman

Photo: Ulf Lundin - imagebank.sweden.se

According to Systembolaget, Sweden’s alcohol drinks retailer, Swedes consume around five million litres of mulled wine every year. Spiced, sweet wine served warm is nothing new however, as the Romans and the ancient Greeks spiced and sweetened their wine. Nowadays, mulled wine can be found in many countries around the world; the Germans have glühwein, the French have vin chaud, and in Sweden, mulled wine is simply called glögg.

The Swedish tradition of drinking mulled wine for Christmas kicked off in the 1890s. Spritmuseum, a museum dedicated to Swedish drinking culture, states that at the time, wine merchants often had their own versions of mulled wine, with festive Christmas-themed labels. Apparently, one of the most famous wine merchants in Stockholm, J. D. Grönstedt & Co., had special versions which included a blend of wines, syrup, raisins, almonds, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and vanilla.

Anticipated annual release

One of the best known mulled wines in Sweden is Blossa, which has been made

according to the same recipe since 1895. First, the spices are mixed and extracted, a process that takes around five months. They are then mixed with wine, sugar and water, and left to mature for some time. This brings out heaps of those classic mulled wine flavours; cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and orange. The mulled wine is then heated before being bottled.

There are many different kinds of mulled wines available on the market, from the classic red wine base to innovative flavoured versions. In supermarkets, you will also find alcohol-free versions and ready-made spice mixes, if you want to make your own mulled wine.

Since 2003, Blossa has released a special edition with a new flavour and design each year, much anticipated by many. Blossa 2024 has a white wine base with notes of smoky Scottish whisky and dulse algae, which adds saltiness and umami. Last year’s special edition had flavours of hops and raspberries, and previous years have seen for instance coffee, lingonberry and juniper, as well as yuzu and ginger.

Day dedicated to mulled wine

On 1 December, Swedes celebrate the day of mulled wine (Glöggens dag). One more reason to meet up with friends and family to enjoy some old favourites or perhaps the new 2024 edition from Blossa, or some new releases from other producers. By the way, you don’t need to enjoy mulled wine warm, you can also serve cold and with some ice.

What to serve with glögg, you might wonder? Often, mulled wine in Sweden comes with blanched almonds and raisins on the side, so you can add to your own preference. It might also be served with gingerbread biscuits and saffron buns. Some people love to have blue cheese with the gingerbread biscuits –are you one of them?

We recommend that you try mulled wine together with the soft, chewy caramel candies with sea salt, which can be found in this month’s food column – a delicious treat.

For more information on glögg, see www.glöggensdag.se

Photo: Magnus Carlsson - imagebank.sweden.se

Photo: Blossa

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A cacao odyssey: Vigdis Rosenkilde and the quest for the world’s best chocolate

Step into a world where the jungle hums with secrets, where each breeze carries the scent of cacao and whispers of ancient flavours waiting to be uncovered. Norwegian Vigdis Rosenkilde invites you on her pursuit of pure chocolate magic. Why not come along?

By Celina Tran | Photos: Diego Montoya, Vigdis Rosenskilde

Imagine stepping into a world where chocolate isn’t just a treat but an adventure—where the delicate floral notes of cacao whisk you through dense Latin American jungles, and each bite unveils a story as vibrant as the rainforest itself. This is the magical world of Vigdis Rosenkilde, Norway’s very own take on Willy Wonka.

“It all started in 2010 when I stumbled over a completely enthralling article about chocolate and the cacao bean. I learned that cacao beans, like wine, could hold different flavours – floral, fruity, nutty, and more,” says Rosenkilde. “This came at a time where I wanted to create a workspace for myself where I could travel, learn, and explore, and I

became increasingly engrossed with the idea that it might be possible to create chocolate that tasted like wildflowers without adding a single petal.”

After long and careful deliberation, Rosenkilde decided to risk everything. Driven by a burning curiosity, she sold her Oslo apartment and set off into the unknown, beginning her very own chocolate adventure. “I trekked across Latin America and visited more than 50 cacao plantations to taste and learn all about cacao by the locals,” she says.

While in the Americas, she made friends in the most unexpected places, including Wilton, a cacao professor who invited her to his experimental farm in the jungles of Peru. “Wilton had over 100 different cacao trees, each offering unique and captivating flavour notes. There was, however, one particular tree that made his eyes sparkle. Cracking a cacao fruit from the tree open, Wilton handed it to me and asked what I could smell, and it was like putting my head in a bouquet of roses.”

Despite being obsessed with cacao’s floral notes and her name meaning source of the rose, Rosenkilde had never even

considered a rose-flavoured chocolate. Until now. “In that moment, everything made sense. I knew this Chuncho variety was exactly what I’d been searching for,” she says. The Chuncho bean offered a flavour as complex as the jungle itself. With Wilton’s help, Rosenkilde set off on a quest to find more of this magical bean, convinced that she had found a once-ina-lifetime ingredient.

Vigdis Rosenkilde’s rose aroma chocolate won the World’s Best Dark Chocolate at the International Chocolate Awards in 2023, along with the highest score at the time. This year, she once again won the Best Dark Chocolate, and over the last three years, she has won eleven gold medals both for quality and direct trade.

Crafting ethical chocolate

Rosenskilde’s creations stand apart in the chocolate industry. Unlike conventional chocolate makers, she does not work through brokers or middlemen. Instead, she buys directly from farmers, tasting each batch herself, ensuring it lives up to her standard. “I spend a lot of my time in Peru at these farms, working, learning and sharing knowledge alongside the locals. I wanted to do things differently, to contribute to the local economy, to personally be part of the whole process to ensure attention to detail.” she says.

By producing the chocolate in Peru, Rosenkilde contributes to the local economy of the country where the cacao is grown. “Most of our chocolates are made from just two ingredients, cacao and sugar, allowing the natural, unique flavours of the beans to take centre stage. Each batch is like a vintage of wine, reflecting the year, the climate, and even the hands that harvested it.”

As her mission for an ethical and respectful chocolate production, Rosenkilde partners only with agro-ecological farms that preserve the biodiversity of the jungle, farms where cacao trees grow alongside lush, native flora, animals, and insects.

“Previously, the chocolate has only been available in Norway, but now I’m excited to share our products worldwide,” she adds. “This chocolate adventure has truly been a dream come true. When I imagine myself old and happy, it’s in the jungle I love so much, looking out on the rolling mountains while still tasting, creating and learning more about cacao and chocolate.”

www.vigdisrosenkilde.com

Facebook: Vigdis RosenkildeSjokoladeopplevelser

Instagram: @vigdisrosenkilde

Each cacao fruit is opened to collect the beans, which are coated in a sweet pulp. This pulp is essential for the fermentation process, which develops the beans' flavours.

Tito and Vigdis checking the fermentation process.

These dried cacao beans will be roasted and crafted into chocolate.

Enchanting chocolate flavours from Lapland

In the heart of Finnish Lapland, Choco Deli redefines chocolate as an art form. This Rovaniemi-based chocolatier and café delights locals and tourists alike with handmade chocolates, artisanal breads, and creative gelato flavours inspired by Lapland’s nature.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Petri Teppo/Studio Artica

Located in Rovaniemi’s bustling city centre, Choco Deli – known as the world’s northernmost chocolatier – blends the boldness and purity of Lapland’s ingredients with a refined European chocolate-making tradition. The café’s products are as visually appealing as they are delicious, from intricate chocolate pralines to vibrant gelato and fresh, house-baked breads.

Founded in the early 2000s by Jouko Rajanen, Choco Deli’s journey began as a personal culinary project. Today, it is a thriving café and chocolaterie that prides itself on turning chocolate into edible art with a uniquely Finnish flair.

The company’s first café opened in 2012, followed by another location in Rovaniemi’s Rinteenkulma in 2019. If you stop by for coffee, tea, or a special treat, Choco Deli’s

commitment to quality is evident in each handmade product. Rajanen notes; “To us, chocolate is more than an ingredient. It’s a way to make life’s small moments special and big moments unforgettable.”

Beyond chocolate, Rajanen’s culinary vision extends to other flavours of the world, most recently through Restaurant Massimo, a Neapolitan-style pizzeria also in Rovaniemi. Known for bringing authentic tastes to northern Finland, Massimo offers a cosy complement to Choco Deli’s sweet and artisanal vibe, giving locals and tourists a well-rounded taste of the region.

For Choco Deli’s chocolate artisans, providing a high-quality product and service is a matter of pride. Its range includes classics such as pralines and ganache-filled chocolates, and the biggest source of in-

spiration is Lapland’s berries. “Many of our products change seasonally, and they are always inspired by local flavours – from cloudberries and bilberries to more unusual flavours like birch,” Rajanen says.

Choco Deli stands as a testament to the blend of Lapland’s pure ingredients and European chocolaterie craftsmanship. It is a must-visit for those who want a taste of Finland’s northern beauty – delivered in a sweet, artisanal form.

www.chocodeli.fi

Facebook: Choco Deli

Instagram: @chocodeliofficial

A hidden gem in the North Atlantic Ocean

Tucked along the Faroese coast near the striking Gjógv gorge, Úti á Gjógv offers guests an experience unlike any other. Originally a salt cod warehouse, the historic venue and café has been restored and can now host up to 120 guests for conferences, weddings, meetings, and other events. And the food has local flavours all the way.

By Heidi Kokborg

Breathtaking rugged coastlines. Striking mountain views. Waves crashing against cliffs. Lush greenery. These are the surroundings of Fiskastykkið and Úti á Gjógv, a café and an event venue joined together by a glass alley. Built in 1912, the building was originally a salt cod warehouse, which has been restored. “It’s not just a place, it’s a story. When you enter the building, you’re stepping into that story,” says Jónleyg Joensen, manager at Úti á Gjógv and Fiskastykkið.

With three floors, Úti á Gjógv can accommodate up to 120 guests. Whether you are looking for a wedding venue, a place to host your next business meeting or a smaller conference, Úti á Gjógv is the ideal space. While you get the sense of being in the middle of nowhere, you are

just 10 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from Tòrshavn.

A taste of the Faroe Islands

Not only do you get to experience the raw beauty of the Faroe Islands in historic surroundings; you also get to enjoy delicious local flavours. The in-house kitchen showcases the bounty of Faroese waters and land. As an echo from the past, both the café and event venue focus on local fish, as well as seasonal vegetables and herbs.

“The dishes are designed to surprise and delight, offering traditional seafood with a twist. From welcome drinks to main courses, the culinary experience is created to reflect the island’s essence. Every meal here is an experience where the flavours of the Faroe Islands come alive,” says Jónleyg. In addition to local ingredi-

ents, the team also uses locally made ceramics, handcrafted napkins, and flowers from the local area all year round.

Experience the magic of this beautiful place, on your own or with family and friends. Simply visit Fiskastykkið Café. Here, you can enjoy all the amazing food in cosy, homey surroundings; its warm atmosphere offers a true taste of local hospitality and Faroese charm.

www.fiskastykkid.fo

Facebook: Fiskastykkið

Instagram: @fiskastykkid_utiagjogv

Photo: Fiskastykkið

Photo: Fiskastykkið

Photo: Fiskastykkið

Photo: Amy J. Robinson

Outstanding beers from one of Finland’s top craft breweries

Nearly ten years ago, Fat Lizard Brewing Co. brewed its first commercial beer, 101 California Pale Ale. 2025 will be a year of celebration for this praised brewery in Espoo, including a recreation of the original recipe.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Fat Lizard Brewing Co.

Fat Lizard Brewing Co. was founded by four friends who came together to brew American-style beers, from the West Coast specifically. Initially, brewing was a fun hobby but the friends soon realised that they were onto something special.

Things have certainly gone well and almost ten years on, Fat Lizard is amongst Finland’s top craft breweries with one million litres brewed per year and a team of over 20, including production, packaging,

marketing & sales, and distribution. The brewery even has its own lab, with quality control being a key factor in its brewing process and, ultimately, in its success.

“There are around 100 craft breweries in Finland these days and Fat Lizard is currently number three,” says Topi Kairenius, co-founder and creative director.

“It hasn’t been easy though, partly due to Finnish alcohol regulations. The four of us who started and grew the brewery are childhood friends and share the same values, based on quality as well as human, environmental and animal welfare. Everything is still done in-house, and we all bring useful experience from our previous careers.”

Reliable core range and tasty seasonals

“From the outset, we wanted people in Finland to be able to enjoy this type of beer that we love so much ourselves –and to enjoy it fresh,” says Kairenius. “Brewing mostly with Finnish barley malt from Lahti, and some special malts from Germany, gives the signature flavour of our beers. They are hops-driven as can be expected from West Coast styles, but with balanced sweetness.”

101 California Pale Ale was the brewery’s first commercial beer, released in 2015, and is still one of the best-sellers. The goal with the recipe was easy drinkability and flawless taste, with a touch of exotic fruits and balanced bitterness. As part of the brewery’s tenth anniversary, the team will recreate the original recipe and release a birthday edition of the beer.

Fat Lizard is well-known and loved for its excellent, hoppy American Pale Ales and IPAs. A clear hit is Track Day Session IPA, which was awarded best India Pale Ale at Finland's Best Beer 2019 competition. And Ankle Slapper Surf Ale, a modern take on a West Coast Pale Ale, is a quenchable beer with heaps of character.

There are many more outstanding beers from this talented brewery though, for instance, seasonal treats such as Glow Plug, a so-called winter warmer brewed

with tonka beans and cacao nibs, as well as a Baltic Porter, a Scottish Wee Heavy, and an Imperial Stout.

Reverend Reptile and heavy metal beer

A recent collaboration is the beer named Reverend Reptile, a New England IPA brewed together with Hackney Church Brew Co. from East London, the UK –an ambitious brewery with numerous awards including Brewery of the Year 2024 by the World Beer Awards. “This collaboration was fantastic and we can’t wait to do something with Hackney Church again,” smiles Kairenius.

In the past, Fat Lizard has also collaborated with for instance Espoo’s very own internationally acclaimed heavy metal band, Children of Bodom. Together, they created Lake Bodom, a lager sold worldwide. Some of the water used in the brewing of this beer actually originated from the nearby Lake Bodom.

The brewery is located in Otaniemi in the heart of Espoo. Here, the team organises tours and tastings, an excellent opportunity for beer aficionados to try a variety of Fat Lizard’s beers and taste them side by side. “Our visitors are often amazed by how much effort and money goes into brewing,” adds Kairenius. “And many are surprised to hear that everything is actually brewed onsite, that our beer is still very much craft beer.”

www.fatlizard.beer

Facebook: Fat Lizard Brewing Co.  Instagram: @fatlizardbeer

Traditional whisky craftsmanship with a Danish touch

Craftsmanship and tradition come together to create fine Danish whisky with creative twists. Using locally sourced organic ingredients, Thornæs Distillery produces whisky with a distinct Danish character. The distillery also offers tours where you can learn about the whisky-making process and taste some of the spirits.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Thornæs Distillery

At Thornæs Distillery, the art of making whisky is more than just a process – it’s a story. Sourcing local organic grain from the farm where the distillery is located, Thornæs is dedicated to crafting fine Danish whisky. Inspired by years of travelling as a journalist and making visits to distilleries and vineyards around the world, Torben Thornæs Andersen decided to start his own whisky distillery in Denmark.

“Whisky-making to me is about storytelling as much as the actual product,” explains Torben Thornæs Andersen, founder of Thornæs Distillery. “I wanted to tell the story of Danish whisky. I learned from Scottish distilleries and now combine the traditional craftsmanship with a distinct Danish touch.”

Whisky is made from just three basic ingredients – grain, yeast, and water – that

undergo a rather complex and time-consuming process. Every step of this delicate process, from the choice of barley to the ageing in wooden barrels, plays an important role in shaping the final product. The ageing process takes a minimum of three years, with a significant part of the whisky’s flavour coming from the barrel. “The process is incredibly complex, requiring time and patience, but the result is a unique and flavourful spirit,” says Thornæs Andersen.

But why Danish whisky? Scotland is considered the birthplace of whisky-making, and Scottish whisky is one of the most famous and traditional forms of whisky, governed by strict regulations that define its production process. “We have a bit more freedom to innovate in Scandinavia,” says Thornæs Andersen. “We experiment with different wood types for maturation,

and explore different kinds of grain and methods to smoke our barley. The result is a whisky that pushes the boundaries while still respecting the tradition.”

Curious to experience the whisky-making process for yourself? Thornæs Distillery offers tours where guests can explore the distillery, learn the story behind the bottles, and even get a taste of some of the spirits. The tours can be booked online and for both smaller and larger groups. Thornæs Distillery also arranges private tastings, and of course guests can bring home a bottle from the distillery shop.

www.thornaes.com

Facebook: Thornæs Destilleri

Instagram: @thornaesdestilleri

Meet Sweden’s oldest fruit distillery

Few distilleries can pride themselves on the same level of authenticity as Norrtälje Bränneri. From using homegrown ingredients to being run by the sixth generation of the family that has farmed the land since the 19th century, Norrtälje Bränneri is simply small-scale handicraft at its best.

During its nearly 25 years of distilling, Norrtälje Bränneri has mastered the craft of creating fruit and berries-based spirits as well as whisky, gin, aquavit, schnapps and Sweden’s finest punsch. These are all made with organic ingredients, mostly from the distillery’s own

farm, including apples and rowan berries from its fairytale-like apple grove (which is also bookable for weddings).

“We make all our premium spirits in hand-beaten copper stills, which helps maximise the flavour of each distillate. We also use water from our own well, which adds another layer to the products’ character,” explains Anna Anerfält.

Recently, Norrtälje Bränneri has launched its Äppelglögg. This classic Christmas spirit is flavoured with apple, rowan berries and traditional Christmas spices and is available as 0,5% ABV and 14,5% ABV. “If you want to enjoy the low-alcohol option post-Christmas, just pour it in a champagne glass with some tonic, serve cold with a slice of lime. It’s delicious,” Anerfält suggests.

www.cosytimesceramics.dk

Instagram: @cosytimesceramics.kerteminde

By Emma Rodin

Here is the best part; you can pick up a bottle from the duty free shop at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, just 40 minutes’ drive from the lush countryside that Norrtälje Bränneri calls home. How is that for locally produced?

www.norrtaljebranneri.se Instagram: @norrtaljebranneri

Christmas in a bottle, made with apples from the farm.

Experience Sweden’s west coast in winter

This is not just an ordinary stay – it’s a feeling

Welcome to a resort that has it all. Meetings, spa, family activities, and idyllic archipelago life in Grebbestad – Sweden’s oyster capital - in between Gothenburg and Oslo.

Experience archipelago tours, crayfish boils on the pier, the salty sea breeze, the scent of seaweed and nature, and not least, winter bathing with a sea sauna.

Salus Per Aqua – health through water.

www.tanumstrand.se

@tanumstrand

SpecialTheme: SWEDEN–YOURWINTER DESTINATION!

Experience the dreamlike Swedish winter

More winter tourists are choosing to visit Sweden, especially as snow conditions in other parts of Europe have become less predictable. With a range of fantastic resorts and reliable snow coverage, Sweden provides great value for winter travellers.

By Malin Norman | Photo: Håkan Wike - imagebank.sweden.se

Sweden’s winter tourism has deep roots. Back in 1909, the funicular railway was built in Åre, marking the start of organised winter sports in the country. Nowadays, there are over 200 ski resorts in Sweden, many of them offering worldclass skiing and snowboarding.

Cross-country skiing is also deeply rooted in Swedish culture, with countless trails. You might have heard of the iconic Vasaloppet cross-country ski race, which runs between Sälen and Mora? It was first held

in 1922, following the path of Gustav Vasa’s legendary escape from the Danish king’s soldiers over 400 years earlier. The 90 kilometre race attracts around 15,000 skiers from around the world every first Sunday in March, with millions of viewers following the live broadcast on TV.

A broad range of winter sports beyond skiing awaits however. For instance, travelling through snow-covered forests and across frozen lakes with a dog sled. Or if you prefer a more modern way to

explore, snowmobile tours are popular too. Another pulse-increasing activity is winter bathing – go for a hot sauna session followed by a plunge into icy waters. This is a great way to warm up after a day exploring the winter landscape.

For those who want a more relaxing stay, the country’s serene beauty makes for an ideal setting for reflection and reconnecting with nature. If you travel to the far north, you will also have the chance to experience the polar nights, when the sun never rises above the horizon – providing an atmosphere that can be described as almost otherworldly.

www.visitsweden.com

Instagram: @visitsweden

35 years of Arctic art at Sweden’s world-famous ICEHOTEL

Handcrafted each year from ice and snow, ICEHOTEL has rightly earned its reputation as a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience. Museum by day and hotel by night, this national landmark in Sweden’s far north attracts both art enthusiasts and curious travellers from around the world. This year, the 35th edition of ICEHOTEL will open on 13 December.

By Malin Norman

The frosty marvel is the brainchild of Yngve Bergqvist, an entrepreneur who founded ICEHOTEL in the 1980s in a bid to showcase the village of Jukkasjärvi during the dark winter months. Bergqvist invited two Japanese artists to create the first edition of the Arctic hall, which has become a recurring feature of the hotel known as the Ceremony Hall.

Wondrous in more ways than one, ICEHOTEL is unlike any other hotel. Each year, the hotel is hand-sculpted out of massive blocks of ice from the Torne River, a process which takes six weeks. The hotel takes on slightly different shapes each year and is a top attraction for tourists from

around the world. It has even been included in TIME’s World’s Greatest Places.

Photo: Asaf Kliger

By tradition, the making of the winter hotel is an art forum, where the 40-45 selected suite designers, from all over the world, gather in Jukkasjärvi to use ice and snow as the canvas for their art. “Each art suite is an installation – an original piece of art that melts and returns to mother nature in the spring,” says Marie Herrey, CEO. “This year, we celebrate our 35th anniversary. The new edition of ICEHOTEL opens 13 December, which coincides with Lucia, and the inauguration will be broadcast live.”

New Icebar – In Orbit – in ICEHOTEL 365

There is also ICEHOTEL 365, the first permanent snow and ice hotel to offer ice experiences all year round. Here, the new Icebar opened on 8 November. “In Orbit has been designed by Karl-Johan Ekeroth and Christian Strömqvist,” says Herrey. “With inspiration from space, and in collaboration with Swedish astronaut Christer Fuglesang, In Orbit will take you

Photo: Asaf Kliger

on a journey from Earth to the International Space Station, and beyond.”

ICEHOTEL 365 also features Art and Deluxe Suites with heated bathrooms, plus renowned food offerings. At the restaurant, for example, guests can try the Ice Menu, where two of the dishes are served on plates of ice. And at The Veranda, guests can sit at the Chef’s Table, a communal U-shaped table where the chefs cook a 12-course menu brought out in eight servings, as inspired by the eight Sámi seasons.

On the banks of Torne River sits a third restaurant, the cosy and traditional Hempy (The Old Homestead), which dates back to 1768. It offers a casual menu of local produce and Lappish pizza, to be enjoyed on the veranda or by the open fire. Visitors can also book a Wilderness Dinner with a three-course meal inspired by the current season, cooked in the woodlands.

Memorable activities and creative teamwork

Other than soaking up the wonders of ICEHOTEL, there is plenty of fun to be had in the area. A winter-lover’s dream, Jukkasjärvi itself turns into a frozen paradise for half the year and guests can embark on adventures such as ice fishing, ice sculpting, ancient sauna rituals, or go on snowmobile tours to spot the Northern Lights from the vast, dark forests of the region.

ICEHOTEL offers numerous diverse package deals and is the ideal destination for conferences. “We have a newly renovated conference house,” says the CEO. “In addition to great meeting facil-

ities, we have plenty of activities appreciated by groups – doing something creative together builds team spirit.”

Remaining incredibly popular, ICEHOTEL has guests from over 70 countries each year. “We can even arrange to pick you up from the airport with dog sleds, which is something most people haven’t tried before,” adds Herrey. “And many have never experienced polar nights, Northern Lights and midnight sun – and above all, the silence here is quite special.”

www.icehotel.com

Facebook: icehotel.sweden

Instagram: @icehotelsweden

ICEHOTEL is easily accessible. The closest airport is located in Kiruna, just a 90-minute flight from Stockholm and only 15-20 minutes by car from the hotel. There are daily connections from Stockholm, and now also direct flights to Kiruna from Copenhagen, Düsseldorf and Paris.

Photo: Joakim Norenius

Photo: Asaf Kliger

Photo: Asaf Kliger

Photo: Asaf Kliger

Photo: Asaf Kliger

Where royals and rascals come to ski

A haven for skiing families, Kungsberget is bustling with opportunities for beginners and regulars to develop their skills in a carefully curated environment. And, at just 90 minutes’ drive from Stockholm’s Arlanda airport, Kungsberget happens to be one of the most accessible ski getaways in the country. No wonder this is a smash hit.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Branäsgruppen

It all began in the 1930s when a man named Johan Larsson embarked on a lone mission, cutting down trees and preparing the slope by foot, for his own skiing pleasure. That slope is still part of the resort and is fittingly named Johans Backe, Swedish for Johan’s Slope. “His daughter still skis at Kungsberget and she is well into her 80s!” says Mikael Elford, head of sales and marketing at Branäsgruppen which runs Kungsberget. “She loves it too much to stop and is a true ambassador.”

The slope grew with the installation of the first lifts in the 1970s during the Ingemar Stenmark wave, when the famous World Cup Alpine skier stole the hearts of the Swedes – and the rest of the world.

However, it was not until 2007 when Kungsberget was acquired by Branäsgruppen and turned into the modern, high-quality ski resort it is today with numerous slopes, around 3,500 beds,

a supermarket, four restaurants and an eight-seat express lift.

“The growth we’ve seen over the past few years is crazy. More and more, people choose Kungsberget over the northern ski resorts due to convenience. I always say that what you lose in altitude coming here, you win back in time,” explains Elford.

Slopes for every level

The resort is open from December to Easter and has something to offer for all ages. “Our resort is perfect for families and beginners. In fact, we’re currently improving our Rundturen slope to help beginners ski down the mountain all the way from the top. Naturally, we also have great black pistes for those looking for a challenge. The key is that all slopes land in the same, central area – it’s basically impossible to lose one another,” says Elford.

This gives a sense of closeness and security – ski on your own terms and meet up

Enjoy great skiing for the whole family.

at the bottom and stay together, no matter the slope or time of day. “This is perfect for families because you don’t risk ending up in another village altogether,” adds Elford. “I was skiing abroad once when this happened to me!”

What’s more, kids will rejoice in visiting the newly improved Björnbuseland, an area purely designed for them with fun and easy skiing. Here, children can enjoy three manned lifts (with adult support always on hand), low incline slopes, which are perfect for practising turns with lots of curious figurines dotted around. “The idea is that little ones can grow their confidence on skis, but most importantly, have fun while doing so.”

Swift and smooth rental service

At Kungsberget, you won’t need to waste a minute standing in line for a set of skis. “Our ski rental service is run through a pre-booking system,” Elford explains. “You pre-book at ease and simply pick up your gear – it’s not like in the old days when you would queue all morning. It’s all done on the phone beforehand, so you can spend more time on the slopes.”

Après-ski, done right

Kungsberget’s dining spots have seen a complete overhaul to offer the best food and service, and the culinary delights at the four restaurants make the perfect

complement to a weekend getaway with the family, or business trip. “We have a fantastic restaurant manager with tons of experience and we’re on track to double the size of our burger joint,” says Elford.

After food comes après-ski revelry. “It starts with a show for the kids featuring our mascots, Björnbusarna,” Elford says. “They sing and dance for our youngest guests, and later, the après-ski starts for our adult guests.” Then, depending on where you stay, you can always unwind in a gym, sauna and spa. When it is time to head back to your cabin, you might be lucky enough to see the northern lights or spot a trail of footprints from

the Swedish wildlife. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you might enjoy seeing a star or two; rumour has it that the crown princess and her family often ski here.

But most important is Kungsberget’s service and facilities – where the focus is on making your stay as smooth as possible. “The time between checking in and getting onto the slopes is quick and easy,” adds Elford. “All the living areas are right by the slopes, with everything you need a stone’s throw away. We know how valuable your time is and won’t let you waste it.”

www.kungsberget.se Instagram: @kungsbergetskidort

Discover one of Sweden’s most accessible ski resorts.

Fulfil your winter Lapland dream

For a healthy dose of natural beauty, relaxation and snow-filled adventure, steer your way to Luleå on Sweden’s north-east coast. In and around this beautiful city, deep forest landscapes marry up with a stunning archipelago – creating the perfect base for an unforgettable winter getaway.

By Emma Rodin

Built on a passion for the city and its proximity to the great outdoors, Explore Luleå offers a wide range of activities paired with exceptional accommodation. “We recently opened our Ice and Light Village, which is a group of luxury-style igloos located in a forest clearing,” says founder and CEO Pontus Frank. “The igloos have all the amenities you need and are a short walk from our main activity centre and restaurant, which serves high-quality, local food like smoked reindeer and fish. But the best part is the igloos’ clear

walls. If you’re lucky, you can spot the Northern Lights while wrapped up in a blanket inside the igloo. It’s a bucket-list experience, for sure.”

Aside from a one-of-a-kind place to stay, Explore Luleå’s roster of thrilling things to do is worth a shout-out. Think snowmobiling, ice fishing and snowshoe hiking. You can even go aurora hunting or drive a classic Swedish kick sled. “Many guests book an Arctic dining experience where they enjoy a three-course dinner inside a tipi tent, sitting on reindeer skins with a crackling fire in the middle,” explains Frank. “We also have a diverse animal ecosystem in this region, which is an attraction in itself. This includes plenty of moose, not to mention majestic whitetailed eagles.”

Then, there is the spa where visitors can socialise in the hot tub and sauna or take a dip in the ice tub. “Whatever you’re craving, we recommend that you book a

package deal which includes accommodation (minimum two nights), food and activities,” adds Frank.

Larger groups, including conference guests, are equally welcome. And although groups are better off staying in central Luleå, a mere 30 minutes’ drive away, they are warmly invited by Explore Luleå to enjoy its superb offering, and to make memories that will last a lifetime.

www.explorelulea.com

Instagram: @explore_lulea

Explore Luleå’s activity centre and igloos are located 20 minutes’ drive from Luleå airport, which has regular flights from Stockholm Arlanda.

Photo: Explore Luleå

Embark on new adventures in Swedish Lapland.

Photo: STARK fotografi & design

Photo: Zone Photography

World-class skiing in iconic surroundings

Located in the midst of the snowy slopes, Sälens Högfjällshotell is the biggest tourist resort in Scandinavia. This iconic hotel offers world-class food, accommodation and activities in beautiful settings, with a legacy steeped in elegance and royal entertainment. This season is set to be the best one yet, with some fantastic events in store.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Sälens Högfjällshotell

Sälens Högfjällshotell was founded in 1937 by Norwegian entrepreneur J W Klüver, who had a dream of building a luxurious high mountain resort in Sälen. The legacy is intact and this is a luxurious getaway for people who want everything close at hand, from world-class skiing to quality dining and night-life, with the historic elegance maintained in a modern way.

This season will be the last for the Backner family, which has been in charge of the hotel for the past 35 years. “Sälen Högfjällshotell is a fantastic destination and we’re very proud of the work we’ve done,” says Thommy Backner, CEO. “We have so much in store for you this winter, with music and events every week – our last season at the reins is bound to be the best one!”

Celebrated chefs and the King of Queen

A range of events await, starting with lighting of the Instaworthy Christmas tree, just outside the hotel, on 1 December. The winter season kicks off during the premiere weekend 14-16 December, with live music and fun events. A later highlight is the Queen revival show with Johan Boding, also called the King of Queen. Another not-to-be-missed happening is Ski & Rock, one of the biggest music events in the region.

Some of Sweden’s best chefs will also make an appearance at the fine dining restaurant Onkel Jean, including Nisse Molinder, Melker Andersson, and Thomas Sjögren. “It’s going to be fantastic. We will have the elite of the Swedish culinary scene visiting us,” says Backner.

Sälen is naturally a hub for skiers, with more than 100 ski slopes and an extensive snow system in place. In addition to the amazing skiing, with fantastic tracks right outside the door, there is a fully-packed schedule with activities such as dog sledding and snowmobile tours, yoga, spa, gym, cinema and kids’ activities.

Make sure not to miss this season in Sälen together with the Backner family!

www.hogis.se

Facebook: Hogfjallshotellet

Instagram: @hogfjallshotellet

The Backner family at the beginning of the 1990s.

Culinary experiences on the slopes

Buustamons hotel and restaurant sits in the middle of the ski slope. At the highest located hotel in Åre, guests can enjoy delicious food in a genuine and charming environment, and taste what the in-house distillery has to offer.

By Malin Norman

The history of Buustamons dates back to the 18th century when it was used as a site for resting when herding cattle. In 1952, the charming old timber cottage was moved from a nearby village to an altitude of 732 metres and quickly became known as the best place to enjoy coffee and waffles when exploring the beautiful surroundings.

These days, visitors can stop by on their way down the slope or get picked up with a tracked vehicle where the mountain road

ends, to enjoy the curated gastronomic experiences at Buustamons. “Everything is made in-house and we put a lot of care into choosing the best local produce in Jämtland,” says hotel manager Lotta Florin. “Our passionate team serves a five-course menu, and some small surprises.”

An appreciated package is the Gourmet Getaway which includes 2 nights, a four course dinner and a three course dinner, plus activities. Since 2000, Buustamons also has an in-house distillery. At 40 square metres, this is probably Sweden’s smallest distillery with a production of around 1,000 litres of vodka per year. Curious guests are welcome to take a look at the distillery and learn about the old Swedish tradition of distilling vodka.

The hotel itself is small with 12 double rooms and a couple of cottages of simple but genuine mountain standard. Many guests come for the peace and quiet and can relax after a day on the slopes in the

spa with sauna and hot tubs. “People often say that it feels like coming home,” says Lotta. “With our personal service and peaceful environment, guests feel comfortable right away.”

In December, visitors can also book a table for the popular Christmas buffet with this season’s spiced snaps and homemade mulled wine to complement the delicious food. “Our Christmas buffet is one of the biggest and most appreciated in Jämtland,” adds Lotta. “We pick up guests with a tracked vehicle and welcome them to our cosy, festive setting. The food is fantastic, and of course everything is made in-house. It’s a treat for hard workers to come here and just enjoy – for many it marks the start of Christmas.”

www.buustamonsfjallgard.se

Instagram: @buustamonsfjallgard

Buustamons is open every day from the middle of December to the end of April, during summer and autumn holidays, and for pre-bookings of special occasions such as weddings and conferences.

Photo: Viktor Ohlin

Photo: Viktor Ohlin

Photo: Buustamons

Photo: Viktor Ohlin

Unrivalled privacy wrapped in luxury

For a new level of effortlessness, try Loggers Lodge in Swedish Lapland. Located close to the Arctic Circle, this private luxury lodge is more than just somewhere to lay your head. It forms the base of a personalised, all-inclusive experience encompassing the best that Lapland has to offer, from food and drink to snow-filled adventures.

By Emma Rodin

A passion project of long-term friends

Jörgen Drugge and Eric Borg, Loggers Lodge is an old timber log cabin which has been carefully modernised while still keeping its rustic core. It offers an unprecedented sense of privacy and calm, thanks to the remote location with no neighbours as far as the eye can see.

“Many guests come here not realising how private the lodge really is,” says Borg. “You’re essentially on your own, surrounded by vast forests and uninterrupted nature. It’s a big part of why staying with us is so special, particularly for those living busy lives where noise has become the norm.”

Timeless retreat with seamless service

The lodge itself is true to its original, authentic look. It may seem unassum-

ing from the outside, but step inside and you are met with modern technology and comfortable Scandinavian furniture. A stunning feature, the open fireplace is the anchor of the room – once a place for loggers to cook food and now the source of warmth and atmosphere.

There is also the glass pod, a separate building with floor-to-ceiling windows

overlooking the forest. The modern pod has a stylish bioethanol fireplace and is connected to the main lodge via a wooden walkway. Together, the buildings sleep up to six people depending on setup, perfect for a couples’ getaway as much as a family holiday.

Additionally, guests have exclusive access to a spa and wood-fired sauna which is warmed up on demand and upon guests’ arrival. Thanks to the sauna’s glass panels, users can observe the tranquil forest landscape on the outside. “We also have an outdoor hydrotherapy Jacuzzi, where guests can enjoy a sensational, restoring massage while they gaze at the stars,” explains Drugge. “At the end of their stay with us, you can really see a change in their appearance with softened faces and shoulders dropped.”

Another aspect that sets Loggers Lodge apart is the level of service and attention to detail. From collecting guests at the airport with pre-heated car seats, to making sure ambient music is playing on arrival, the founding duo has high

Your new favourite travel destination awaits. Photo: Loggers Lodge

Photo: Loggers Lodge

standards when it comes to service. “The best service is seamless. We listen to our guests and we personalise their experience in any way we can, to add that little bit of magic,” says Borg.

One such thing could be to serve something off-menu if a guest has a specific craving. Speaking of, all food is cooked by a skilled private chef and served inside the lodge with wine to match. Expect local delights such as reindeer, mushrooms, moose, berries and fish (with alternative preferences considered, of course).

Life outside the lodge

The personalised service extends beyond the lodge itself. As an all-inclusive stay, Loggers Lodge comes with a full schedule of memorable activities, all run by private guides. “Our mission is to embody and deliver what we call our philosophy of transformative travelling, which

we define as a balancing act of opposites, that of exciting adventure with relaxation and time for integration,” says Drugge.

So, when it comes to adventure, guests can choose from various snow-filled activities in winter such as snowmobiling, with other options in summer. And to help maximise their experience, there is a recommended schedule for the taking: start off with an à la carte breakfast at around 8:30am, followed by an activity at 10am, like snowshoe walking or cross-country skiing. Enjoy lunch outside cooked on a muurikka (a traditional griddle pan) before returning to the lodge where candles are lit and snacks

are waiting. Then, take a moment to relax in the spa before dinner is served at around 7pm. Finish the day off with a Northern Lights safari accompanied by a guide and photographer. And the next day? It all starts over (and gets better and better).

Needless to say, a visit to Loggers Lodge is the definition of effortlessness. “Although we want our guests to feel zen and be looked after at every step, the ultimate goal is that they leave us with their hearts full and with memories for a lifetime,” concludes Borg.

www.loggerslodge.com

Loggers Lodge is located 1 h 20 min from Luleå Airport, with daily flights to and from Stockholm.

Photo: Tanveer Badal

Photo: Tanveer Badal

Eat, relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Photo: Loggers Lodge

Photo: Tanveer Badal

MiniTheme: MADEINNORWAY

A customer consultant, a camera, and a national costume – OptoScale puts Norway on the technology map

Why is a freezing woman in national costume sitting on a bench by Trondheimsfjord with an underwater camera for photography?

Simple: OptoScale wants to mark its Made in Norway stamp from Innovation Norway, and the campaign image is meant to showcase everything that makes the company unique – Norwegian innovation, precision technology, and a strong determination.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: OptoScale

On the bench sits Marita, leader of the tech company's support team, elegantly dressed in her traditional outfit. Next to her stands OptoScale’s bioscope – a high-tech underwater camera and AIbased instrument that provides fish farmers with precise insights like the world has never seen before.

This is not a holiday camera; it is a tailor-made tool to increase control in one of Norway's most important export industries. Through advanced image analysis, OptoScale offers an entirely new level of data-driven oversight, a paradigm shift in aquaculture. With this technology, built on Norwegian ideas and produced on Trøndelag soil, the company now carries the Made in Norway badge.

"Brilliant, Marita! That looks great!" Mats Muri Løberg, marketing manager at OptoScale, shouts encouragingly from the side as he directs her and the photographer, who patiently adjusts the angle. Between gusts of wind, he proudly explains how OptoScale's bioscope combines advanced camera technology and artificial intelligence to provide salmon producers with precise measurements of fish growth, health status, and lice levels – in real-time.

Millions of salmon and rainbow trout are monitored for this vital information on welfare and success in the pens.

From Norwegian fjords to the world’s oceans

OptoScale has its roots, production, and development in Norway but with a global reach. With customers in Canada, Scot-

land, Chile, Iceland, and along the entire Norwegian coast, this Trondheim-based company has already earned a reputation as a pioneer in aquaculture technology.

With the Made in Norway label on its products, the company can proudly document precision and quality, both for hardware and OptoScale's web portal, where new insights about the fish are easily accessible.

"We could have relocated production or software development abroad to save costs," Mats says with a smile while watching the photos being taken. “But precision is our most important focus, and we must have full control over all details. We achieve that best here in Norway."

Facts about OptoScale:

• Founded in 2015 by Sven Jørund Kolstø – OptoScale was established to enhance fish farming through technology, and has today become a global player.

• Norwegian development – All technology and software are developed in Trondheim, Norway. This has given OptoScale the exclusive Made in Norway trademark.

• Global presence – OptoScale serves customers worldwide, including in Norway, Chile, Scotland, Iceland and Canada.

• Specialised technology – OptoScale develops cameras and AI-based solutions for monitoring fish health,

The campaign image: Norwegian pride and a global future

When the shoot finally wraps up, they have captured the moment they need: Marita in her traditional Norwegian dress, the bioscope in focus beside her, and with Made in Norway as a visible mark of quality. For OptoScale, it is more than just a stamp –this is a promise of Norwegian technology and precision that creates waves far beyond the Trondheimsfjord.

"The adventure has just begun," Mats says with a broad smile. With high-tech solutions, creativity, and a strong belief in the future, OptoScale is on its way to making the world a little more precise.

www.optoscale.no

welfare, lice counting and weight measurement.

• Commitment to R&D – OptoScale is dedicated to research and development in aquaculture, working with industry partners and scientific communities to advance technology for improved fish health and sustainable farming.

• International team – OptoScale has a team of nearly 60 employees of various nationalities, bringing diverse expertise to the company.

• Extensive data – OptoScale has data from over 4,000 harvests directly from fish pens, providing valuable insights for decision-making in fish farming.

OptoScale's bioscope takes tens of thousands of pictures every single day, providing fish farmers with detailed real-time information about the fish's weight, health, lice status.

Tackling the climate crisis, one carbon forest at a time

As an IT professional, Anders Kristiansen often dealt with the process of documenting carbon neutrality by purchasing carbon credits for customers. Feeling the system lacked transparency, Kristiansen decided that a business managing carbon forests would be better suited to existing in a stable country like Norway, where trees and land could be safeguarded. This idea was the beginning of Trefadder.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Trefadder

Every person and business has a carbon footprint. While most emissions can be reduced, there are residual emissions that are harder to cut, especially from certain types of businesses. Carbon credits allow companies to offset these residuals by supporting projects that remove an equivalent amount of CO₂ from the atmosphere.

Launched in 2019, Trefadder’s main aim is to deliver premium carbon credits, ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability. “There is a growing demand for projects that remove CO₂ from the atmosphere accurately and cost-ef-

fectively. Trefadder fills this gap with documented, traceable carbon capture projects,” says Kristiansen, founder and CEO. In addition to his IT experience, he also has a background in agriculture and environmental science.

A reliable company in the fight against climate change

Currently, Trefadder serves over 200 clients worldwide across sectors such as technology and energy, and consults with companies such as Microsoft, ABB, Vår Energi, and BDO. “Companies choose Trefadder for our high-quality forest projects that offer full transparency, trace-

ability, and documented CO₂ capture,” says Kristiansen.

At the same time, both businesses and private individuals can join Trefadder. “Our private membership contributes to tree planting, old-growth protection, and habitat restoration,” the CEO says.

Projects that benefit businesses and local communities

Besides offering climate credits (known as carbon credits internationally) to

companies that want to compensate for their emissions, Trefadder’s projects also include new tree planting, forest conservation and forest protection. For carbon capture, Trefadder works with local farmers to build Norwegian carbon forests using only specific Norwegian tree species, including spruce, pine, oak, beech, maple and ash. “We only plant the right tree in the right place,” ensures Kristiansen. The forests also create jobs and support local communities. “We’re also leading Norway’s largest oak forest restoration and have established the country’s first underwater climate forest to restore kelp. This plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems and carbon capture.”

Norwegian old-growth forests store vast amounts of carbon in trees, roots, and soil, and continue to capture CO₂ each year. Protecting these forests is vital for both climate stability and biodiversity.

Trefadder works exclusively in Norway, planting new forests and protecting old ones. “Norway’s geography, with natural barriers like fjords and mountains, offers excellent conditions for climate forests, which can provide long-term CO₂ capture,” says Kristiansen.

Collaborating with the Government

In Norway, Trefadder has given talks at schools and universities on how nature-based solutions can address cli-

mate and environmental challenges. The company has received recognition from Norway’s Prime Minister and other leaders and the projects are grounded in state-supported research.

Trefadder even has a foothold in local politics. One of its employees, Tormod Wilson Losnedal, has recently been appointed mayor of Stavanger, a city located on the west coast of the country.

When well-managed, tree planting and forest conservation is highly successful

in the fight against global warming. Kristiansen adds; “Think of the climate crisis as an overflowing bathtub: we need to both turn off the tap (reduce emissions) and pull the drain plug (remove CO₂ from the atmosphere). Tree planting is one of our best tools for this – when done correctly, with the right trees in stable locations, it’s an effective way to lower atmospheric CO₂.”

www.trefadder.no

Facebook: trefadder

Linkedin: trefadder

Shaping Norway’s outdoor spaces with sustainable innovation

As Norway’s leading producer of concrete products for outdoor spaces, Asak Miljøstein has been shaping the landscapes across the country for over 100 years. From innovative collaborations with top designers to a focus on environmental sustainability, Asak Miljøstein is a testament to how tradition and modernity can go hand-in-hand.

By Celina Tran

With a legacy spanning over a century, Asak Miljøstein has become synonymous with high-quality, innovative concrete products for outdoor spaces. This pioneering company combines traditional craftsmanship with forward-thinking designs, offering functional, sustainable, and visually striking solutions for both private gardens and public environments.

“We’re proud to be the leading producer of concrete products for outdoor environments in Norway,” says Hanne Sønsteby Rooth, managing director at Asak Miljøstein. “Our products are used in

everything from small private gardens to large-scale public projects, and we work hard to ensure that both are functional and beautiful.”

The range includes paving stones, curb stones, retaining walls, and even outdoor lighting and drainage systems. “We offer everything needed to create an outdoor space that looks good and works well,” says Sønsteby Rooth.

From humble beginnings to national leader

Asak Miljøstein’s story began in 1916 with the founding of its first production facility in Fetsund, initially producing sand before transitioning into concrete. As the market and demands have changed over the decades, Asak has grown and adapted. “We started as a sand business before shifting to concrete products. In fact, we are still the only Norwegian company that manufactures double-layer pavers today, which is a point of pride for us,” says Sønsteby Rooth.

Hanne Sønsteby Rooth, managing director.

Photo: Oioioi

Photo: Oioioi

Throughout the 20th century, Asak Miljøstein expanded with Vikaune Fabrikker in Stjørdal launching in 1919. “Vikaune began with a mix of businesses, including barrel-making and even coffin production, but by 1946, they focused exclusively on concrete products, which allowed them to refine their expertise,” explains the managing director.

Over the years, the company has grown both in size and scope. In 2006, Asak Miljøstein opened a new factory in Hønefoss to meet increasing demand. Operating from five production sites across Norway – Bodø, Stjørdal, Kristiansand, Hønefoss, and Fetsund – Asak Miljøstein is able to provide locally sourced solutions with minimum transport. Sønsteby Rooth notes that this comes as a part of the company’s commitment to both sustainability and local communities.

“All our products are manufactured at ISO14001-certified factories, which ensures that we meet the highest environmental standards,” she says. “We are continually working to incorporate more recycled materials into our production and are constantly innovating to reduce our environmental footprint. Another priority is to contribute to the country’s industry by creating workplaces across the country.”

Innovation with a purpose

One of Asak Miljøstein’s standout achievements is Asak FLYT®, a permeable paving

system developed in collaboration with renowned architecture firm Snøhetta. “Asak FLYT® addresses one of the biggest environmental challenges faced by urban areas, stormwater management,” says Sønsteby Rooth. “It’s designed to allow water to drain through the spaces between the paving stones, preventing flooding while also creating a visually unique and flexible design.”

This innovative product has earned international acclaim, including an award in New York and nominations for environmental prizes. Asak FLYT® is also the only product in its category to receive the DOGA mark, a prestigious Norwegian award for design excellence. “The product combines form and function,” she adds. “It’s not just

about solving a problem – it’s about creating something that enhances the beauty of outdoor spaces at the same time.”

Further, Asak FLYT® is labelled Made in Norway, a trademark that requires, among other things, that a substantial part of the production occurs in Norway, that it meets the high-quality standards set and, thus, also adheres to the environmental and industry-specific standards.

The company wants the spaces it helps create to not only be functional but also inspiring and uplifting. In 2021, Asak Miljøstein took another step towards making outdoor environments more vibrant with a collaboration with Koi Fargestudio and Dagny Thurmann-Moe, a Norwegian colour expert. “We wanted to bring more life and character into outdoor spaces. Traditionally, concrete products have been limited to neutral tones, but we wanted to offer something more dynamic,” says Sønsteby Rooth. The result was a range of colourful paving stones that add a playful yet refined touch to any environment.

With its rich heritage and forward-thinking approach, Asak Miljøstein is not just laying the groundwork for beautiful outdoor environments, but also for a more sustainable future.

www.asak.no

Facebook: Asak Miljøstein

Instagram: @asak_miljostein

Photo: Oioioi

Photo: Asak Miljøstein

Photo: Oioioi

Beyond the net: Stingray’s high-tech approach to revolutionising fish farming

Aquaculture, once touted as the future of sustainable food production, now often faces intense scrutiny over its environmental impact and the welfare of farmed fish. Enter Stingray, the Norwegian company with the solution for an ethical, pescatarian future.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Stingray

Norway is known for many things, including high-quality fish which is used in everything from local cuisine to highend sushi restaurants in Japan. While its impeccable taste is undeniable, there is a central challenge – the pervasive issue of sea lice, a resilient parasite that poses risks to fish health, farmer profitability,

and ecosystem stability. Conventional lice treatments have often relied on chemicals, which may impact the delicate balance of marine environments and can cause distress to the fish.

Luckily, where oceans meet cutting-edge technology, a new frontier in

sustainable fish farming has emerged. Stingray Marine Solutions is a company at the forefront of transforming aquaculture through an innovative, non-invasive solution: lasers.

“Our mission has always been about finding a solution that puts fish welfare and sustainability first,” says John Arne Breivik, general manager. Through a decade-long journey of research, development, and persistence, Stingray has brought to market a laser-based technology that precisely targets and re-

moves sea lice, all while preserving the fish’s wellbeing and leaving surrounding marine life untouched.

“By using lasers rather than chemicals or physical handling, our approach avoids the harmful side effects associated with traditional treatments,” says Breivik. Today, Stingray has introduced an era of fish farming that respects natural processes while utilizing the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and underwater robotics.

Using science to turn the tide

In the world of fish farming, few innovations have had as profound an impact as Stingray’s laser technology. The company’s growth and success has been ground-breaking, yet the journey has been far from easy.

Launched from a simple yet groundbreaking idea conceived by inventor Esben Beck in 2009, Stingray’s laser-based de-lousing system now represents the cutting edge of ethical and sustainable fish farming technology. With over a decade of persistence, expertise, and a dedication to environmental stewardship, Stingray has become a game-changer in aquaculture, focusing on fish welfare, growth, and environmental impact reduction. "We wanted to offer a solution that would be both effective and gentle for the fish as many of the existing solutions were putting the welfare and lives of the fish at risk," explains Breivik.

The team, initially composed of just three colleagues, sets out to address one of the aquaculture industry’s biggest challenges, salmon lice. At the time, fish farms relied on aggressive treatments such as medicated baths and cleaner fish, which often caused stress and harm to the fish.

Beck’s laser idea – targeting and removing lice with precision and without touching the fish – was met with scepticism, even laughter. But for Breivik and his team, this ‘impossible’ concept was just the beginning of a decade-long journey to build what is now an industry-standard solution.

“By 2014, after rigorous testing and rounds of prototypes, Stingray’s delousing lasers were finally commercially available,” says Breivik. “Today, we operate over a thousand laser nodes across Norway, each system working around the clock to monitor and protect more than 70 million salmon and trout, ensuring their welfare and growth. If we think of that in terms of meals, that’s over 1.7 billion meals for families all over the world.”

The technology is remarkable in its precision: using AI-driven cameras and lasers to identify and remove lice with pinpoint accuracy in just milliseconds, leaving the fish unaffected and free to thrive.

The future of aquatic welfare

Since its commercial launch, Stingray has grown rapidly, scaling from a few

prototypes to around 700 produced laser units in 2024. By 2025, it will have seen a tenfold in production since 2024, from 110 units to more than 1100 units, and also company profit. This growth has enabled the company to transform from a small start-up to a powerhouse with 200 employees and a robust presence in the aquaculture industry.

“We’ve gone from running on sheer determination to becoming a leader in intelligent aquaculture technology. For us, it’s about more than just removing lice; it’s about creating a sustainable and ethical solution where the fish can swim around and exist peacefully,” says Breivik.

Today, Stingray’s technology is present in approximately 15 per cent of Norway’s fish farms. The online portal, Stingray Online, allows fish farmers to monitor fish health and growth in real-time. This approach has significantly reduced the need for traditional, invasive treatments, creating a more predictable and profitable fish farming process.

As fish farming expands worldwide, Stingray continues to innovate, proving that ethical, sustainable solutions can also drive industry-wide transformation.

“We’re working on continuing development of The Fish Health Hub, Fiskens

HelsestasjonTM, where we can monitor not only the lice levels, but everything about the fish’s health, from its speed to size and growth,” adds Breivik. This comes as a part of Stingray’s mission to support a higher yield of seafood on nature’s terms, protecting both the environment and animal welfare. "Everything we

do aligns with Stingray’s core mission, to have a laser focus on fish welfare. We aim to support the growth of aquaculture responsibly, and hope that this will be the standard across the world in the future.”

www.stingray.no Instagram: @stingrayms

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Timeless Luxury

IN SOUTHEAST OF SWEDEN

MiniTheme: GUIDETOSVALBARD

Ski to the edge of the world

In one of the world’s northernmost inhabited locations, Svalbard Turn is a sporting institution that embodies resilience, community, and a deep love for Longyearbyen. Established in 1930, Svalbard Turn is not just the club hosting the Svalbard Skimaraton, but also a cornerstone of the community, weaving fitness, wellness, and fellowship into the fabric of life in Svalbard.

By Celina Tran

In the high reaches of the Arctic, where the sun dips below the horizon for months on end and icy winds sweep across rugged, snow-draped peaks, lies Svalbard – a remote, dramatic landscape just over 1,000 kilometres from the North Pole. Here, amidst glaciers and stark mountain ridges, Svalbard Turn has built a thriving community around sports and endurance.

“Svalbard Turn is a sports club that provides diverse sports activities for our community,” says general manager Elisabeth Leinan Johannessen. “Our base is the sports complex Svalbardhallen, which features facilities for everything

from football and volleyball to swimming and climbing. We even host sports such as smallbore shooting and chess, catering to the broad interests of our members. The alpine slope SkiLongyear is a recent addition that opened in 2024, expanding our range of winter sports.”

The club’s marathons, events, and athletic gatherings attract participants who crave the extraordinary –braving unpredictable weather that swings from fog and wind to bursts of Arctic sunlight. For nearly a century, Svalbard Turn has embraced the extremes of its surroundings, fostering a spirit of adventure and resilience that reflects the very character of Svalbard itself.

A century of community spirits

The roots of organised sports in Longyearbyen go back to the early 20th century, with the original Longyearbyen Ski Club active from around 1916. By the time Svalbard Turn was established in 1930, it represented a turning point – offering structured physical activities and a vital reprieve for local miners, whose work was physically demanding and isolated.

Sports like gymnastics, skiing, and shooting were introduced early on,

Photo: Svalbard Turn

with Longyearbyen’s early leaders like Joakim Lindholm, a proficient gymnast, and Einar Sverdrup at the helm. The club gained support from the mining company Store Norske, which recognised that recreational sports played an essential role in sustaining workers’ physical and mental well-being.

“Over the years, Svalbard Turn has become integral to community life,” says Johannessen. “Our values of fellowship, health, and honesty are reflected in how we build community around sports. We encourage a healthy lifestyle for everyone, from young children just beginning to explore sports to seasoned marathon runners challenging their limits in an Arctic marathon.”

Join the Svalbard Skimaraton Through fostering competitive spirit and providing a gathering place in venues like Gammelfæmma in the early days or

the modern Svalbardhallen today, the club has grown alongside the town it calls home.

Today, the club might be best known for arranging Svalbard Skimaraton, the larg-

est single event on Svalbard where participants get to experience the extraordinary sights, sounds, and perhaps even wildlife of Svalbard – think Arctic foxes, reindeer, eiders and more. “We invite locals and visitors alike to join us at the end of April as participants, volunteers or spectators, in celebrating and preserving the sporting spirit of Svalbard,” says Johannessen.

As Svalbard Turn approaches its centenary, it continues to be a vital part of Longyearbyen, bringing together people from all walks of life. The incredible view is of course just a bonus so while at the edge of the world, make sure to explore the area and take time to enjoy the dazzling sky above.

www.svalbardturn.no www.spitsbergenmarathon.no

Photo: Svalbard Turn

Photo: Svalbard Turn

Photo: Eveline Lunde

Photo: Eveline Lunde

The natural beauty and rich resources of Svalbard

Only nine degrees south of the North Pole, Svalbard is an archipelago known for its stunning Arctic vistas, flora and fauna, and majestic ice and snow ranges. Home to over 23 nature reserves and numerous protected wild animals, restricted hunting is permitted on the islands. Skinnboden, a boutique specialising in Arctic animal skins, provides customers with specialised leather, furs, and skins harvested in the Arctic under strict regulations.

Text and photo: Skinnboden

With a cosy, cottage-like shop situated in Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s main town, Skinnboden began as a side business for miner Terje Sørgulen in the 1980s. “There were products not easy to get hold of that proved highly popular,” says Mørk, Skinnboden’s CEO. “In the beginning, we sold skins from, amongst others, seal, polar bear, black bear, lynx, and Arctic fox. Later, the boutique expanded to include jewellery, footwear, and fur and leather clothing, as well as souvenirs.”

Today, nestled in the frozen landscape, Skinnboden is full of a range of Arctic products, from snug fur boots to home

décor and furnishings to individually designed gold rings, necklaces and other gold accessories.

Skinnboden’s main business happens in its store, but special skins such as wolf, polar bear and musk can be ordered by contacting the store. This also applies to goods, made from particular types of leather, that cannot be found in other stores. Many products are Skinnboden’s own design and are exclusive to their business.

Some of the most popular products are made of seal skin. “Sealskins can’t be found in many stores in Norway,” explains the CEO. “Most of our gold jewellery is our own well-loved design. As Svalbard is a duty-free region, our goods are quite favourable in terms of price.”

Much of the jewellery sold at the boutique is designed using patterns exclusive to Skinnboden.

Ethically obtained skins and fur Skinnboden has customers coming from all over the world. Those interested in obtaining rare types of animal skins are especially interested in buying them from this company because of the standards and regulations it abides by.

“Our leather is sustainable,” says Mørk. “As for our seal skins, there is always a veterinarian onboard ships that catch seals, for example, to ensure that the catch takes place according to strict criteria set by the authorities. Our polar bear skins come from Canada. In this instance, we rely on Canadian governmental regulations for hunting and the strict rules for sustainable harvesting. We, as a serious trading company, and all of our suppliers, are underlaid by the strict international CITES regulations, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.”

Animal skins are natural and warm but can be delicate. Prices range quite widely, from a few hundred Norwegian kroner, the equivalent of a few euros, to 150,000 NOK, or about 15,000 EUR. Some skins in

Skinnboden are caught by the area’s only trapper, Tommy Sandal.

Originated and designed on Svalbard Products exclusively from Svalbard are polar fox skins and jewellery and buttons fashioned from reindeer antlers. Skinnboden also specialises in proper winter clothing including jackets, vests, gloves and headgear. These protect against most forms of wind and weather.

Besides polar bear skins, Skinnboden can source wolverine, grizzly bear, lynx, as well as other items for those looking for an unusual skin to showcase in their home. “A polar bear skin is both a wise investment and an ornament for your home,” adds the CEO. “Other distinctive skins can really enhance your living space with their singular beauty, patterns, and texture.”

www.skinnboden.no

Facebook: Skinnboden Arctic Products As

The Skinnboden shop on Svalbard.

Animal skins are known for their individual patterns and textures. A cute polar bear stuffed animal is a popular gift for children from Skinnboden.

Skinnboden’s winter wear keeps you warm in many types of winter weather.

Warm gloves, hats, and sweaters are enjoyed by many customers visiting the boutique in Longyearbyen.

Bespoke tours by and for skiers

There’s nowhere quite like the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard. Equipped with plenty of local knowledge, experience, and a genuine passion for skiing, the skilled guides at Backyard Svalbard welcome customers to discover this fascinating corner of the world for themselves.

By Maria Sødal Vole

Established 5 years ago, the company has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors to the region. “Our intention has always been to become the best ski company in Longyearbyen,” says Backyard Svalbard’s CEO and guide Erlend Kjørsvik. “All along, we’ve worked hard at being the best at what we do and providing unique experiences, and we love getting positive feedback from customers.”

Located in the Svalbard archipelago, Longyearbyen is the world’s northernmost town. The remote wilderness of Svalbard makes it a truly remarkable destination where fantastic experiences await. “Svalbard is an incredible arena for exploring nature,” says Kjørsvik. “Taking in the extraordinary scenery on skis is unlike anything else. The view of the majestic, steep mountains meeting the sea is bliss for the eyes, and a lot of our customers are keen to experience the Northern Lights and midnight sun.”

Taking part in a tour with a knowledgeable local guide is the perfect way to uncover hidden gems in the captivating, unspoiled nature. Benefiting from the certified guides’ years of experience and passion, visitors from near and far can enjoy individualised experiences in the striking Arctic landscape.

“We’ve always wanted to provide tours that are a bit different, making the most of the resources and spectacular na-

ture. We’re made to be in the mountains,” Kjørsvik says. “Our tours and activities are designed by and made for people who love to ski – by skiers, for skiers.”

Applying their specialised knowledge of the region, the expert guides consider the weather conditions, assess risk at potential destinations, and ultimately advise the best option on any given day, making the customer part of the decision. “Our priority is keeping everyone safe, and we plan well according to local conditions to ensure safety,” Kjørsvik ensures.

The enthusiastic team is skilled at tailoring and adapting tours and activities according to customer needs and wishes. They can cater to anyone, ranging from beginners and families with kids to expert skiers who want to challenge themselves in an extraordinary environment. “Our customers are at the core of what we do,” says Kjørsvik. “If the guide is happy and the customer is happy, we’ve had a great day!”

www.backyardsvalbard.com

Facebook: Backyard Svalbard

Instagram: @backyardsvalbard

Photo: Paul Norheim

Photo: Paul Norheim

Photo: Backyard Svalbard

Photo: Michel Afflerback

Photo: Paul Norheim

MiniTheme: GUIDETOLAPLAND

Tranquil villa retreats in Finland’s untouched wilderness

Located in the pristine landscapes of Inari, Finland, these Scandinavian-style luxury villas offer an exquisite blend of comfort, modern amenities, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Each villa – complete with a private beach, year-round hot tub, and sauna –invites guests to an unforgettable retreat in the untouched wilderness of Lapland.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Paadar Aurora Villas

Paadar Aurora Villas offers four high-end properties; Villa Paadari, Villa Paatari, Villa Paadar, and Villa Paadari House. Each villa combines modern Scandinavian design with natural, rustic aesthetics, creating a cosy yet upscale ambience. Designed to meet every comfort, these villas feature spacious interiors, private beaches, saunas, and outdoor hot tubs that are open year-round, allowing for a luxurious yet intimate experience.

“We wanted to create spaces with everything our guests could need, blending high-quality amenities with the serenity of the wilderness,” explains owner Tero Kemilä. The villas’

fully equipped kitchens allow guests to prepare meals, but those seeking added convenience can also arrange catering services or a chef for an effortless dining experience.

Enjoying the stillness of the forest

Every villa boasts a covered terrace complete with a hot tub, offering breathtaking views that are particularly magical under the winter sky. “What’s better than seeing the Northern Lights? Seeing them from a hot tub,” Kemilä remarks, describing the unparalleled experience of watching the Auroras dance above snow-dusted trees while soaking in a hot tub surrounded by fells.

Villa Paatari, the largest of the properties, is an 80 square metre log house on the shores of Lake Paatari. This spacious villa includes three bedrooms and can host up to ten guests, making it ideal for larger gatherings. Its open-plan kitchen, private sauna, and additional apartment that sleeps four provide extra flexibility for extended family groups or friends travelling together.

Villa Paadari, also located by Lake Paatari, offers accommodations for up to six guests across three bedrooms, an ideal escape for families or small groups. The villa provides an elegant, cosy environment complete with private access to the lake, offering guests an exclusive connection to the surrounding nature.

Villa Paadar, another lakeside property, serves up a more intimate experience with its 60 square metre cabin and an additional studio apartment. This charming log villa comfortably accommodates eight guests and includes a kitchenette, TV, internet, and private bath. Nestled near the scenic fells and Lemmenjoki National Park, Villa Paadar is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in Finland’s forest scenery.

Year-round adventures at your doorstep

All Paadar Aurora Villas are easily accessible from the Ivalo, Rovaniemi, and Kittilä airports, with transportation and car rentals upon request. Throughout the year, guests have access to a range of seasonal activities and equipment, from cross-country skis in winter to motorboats in summer, allowing for countless outdoor adventures right at the doorstep. Each season brings different opportunities, with rental options available for all types of gear.

“The roads are maintained also during winter, so the villas are accessible yearround, making this a fantastic holiday spot in any season,” says Kemilä. Winter visitors can try snowshoeing, guided ice

fishing, or even pulling fishing nets from frozen lakes with local experts. “In winter, guests can experience snowshoeing onto the frozen lake and pulling nets with a local fisherman, which is a truly unique experience,” he adds.

In addition to convenience, the villas provide amenities for an all-encompassing stay, such as motorboats, barbeque grills, and smoking pots for guests to prepare their own meals. “We’ve included everything we’d expect in a high-quality accommodation,” Kemilä notes, underscoring the attention to detail that characterises the villas.

Best of both worlds

While the villas offer secluded tranquillity, they are located just a 15 minute drive from shops and restaurants. “Our villas offer the best of both worlds,” says Kemilä. “Guests are surrounded by serene nature, away from crowded tourist areas, but still within easy reach of local services and attractions. It’s a magical

location for anyone looking to switch off from their busy everyday lives and enjoy the remarkable scenery and peacefulness, and all it has to offer.”

Northern Finland’s popularity as a travel destination continues to grow, with Lapland’s landscapes offering year-round beauty, from the Northern Lights in winter to the midnight sun in summer. These villas provide an extraordinary vantage point from which to experience these natural wonders.

For those seeking an unforgettable escape in the Finnish wilderness, these villas are a luxurious blend of comfort, adventure, and serene beauty. Whether exploring Lapland’s rugged landscape or simply enjoying the view from a hot tub under the stars, these retreats promise a unique and immersive experience that captures the spirit of Finland’s untamed north.

www.paadarauroravillas.com

Experience Lapland’s essence: reindeer, Northern Lights, and Sámi traditions

Ivalo Experiences invites visitors to immerse themselves in Arctic life, from reindeer herding to fishing under the midnight sun, offering a deep dive into the heart of northern Finland.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Johanna Vuorela / Ivalo Experiences

Founded by locals Johanna and Niilo, Ivalo Experiences brings the traditions of Lapland to life. For Niilo, reindeer husbandry runs deep: his ancestors were reindeer herders, and he has continued the practice. At the core of Ivalo Experiences is a commitment to nature and cultural authenticity. Johanna and Niilo provide an authentic glimpse into Sámi culture through intimate, responsibly led experiences that reflect true Lapland life.

Conveniently located just one kilometre from Ivalo Airport, the reindeer pen allows guests to pop by even for a quick visit. During the Aurora Hunting with Reindeer experience, guests can meet the reindeer, enjoy hot berry juice, and grill sausages in a cosy hut before a flight.

“We can even pick guests up from the airport if they have time to fill before

departure,” Johanna says. “This activity is short, easy, and can be customised to fit guests’ schedules. The area offers a good chance to spot the Northern Lights thanks to the lack of light pollution, and we can arrange the activity on short notice any time in December.”

Become a reindeer herder for a day

From January 2024 onwards, Ivalo Experiences will also allow guests to dive into the daily life of a reindeer herder, starting with a snowmobile ride to a herd of reindeer, where they can try what it is like to herd reindeer, and they can also feed and observe these iconic animals. The day also includes ice fishing on a frozen lake, including checking the fishing nets, and lunch in a traditional Sámi hut. “Our activities don’t disturb the reindeer as they take place within their natural habitat, ensuring their comfort,” says Johanna.

Sustainability is at the heart of the business: “We value nature and spend almost all our time in it. Every experience mirrors what we do in daily tasks during winter: feeding the reindeer and checking fishing nets,” says Johanna. In summer, guests can fish under the midnight sun by a secluded lake, enjoying the quiet of Lapland’s wilderness in daylight. “We’re a cheerful and warm-hearted couple, and it’s a joy to share our life with visitors,” Johanna concludes.

www.ivaloexperiences.com

Facebook: Ivalo Experiences

Instagram: @ivaloexperiences

Tiktok: @ivaloexperiences

Experience authentic luxury at The Fell

On a stunning hilltop in Finnish Lapland is The Fell, a traditional chalet transformed into a luxurious getaway. Decorated in modern Nordic design, it has singular views overlooking a national park, a private location and even its own herd of reindeer welcoming guests.

With years of experience in the hospitality industry, Sofia Siikarla saw the charms of The Fell. “Encompassed by snow-covered trees, you can unwind in front of the fireplace after a day of winter adventures,” she says. “You can also see the Northern Lights from your own private outdoor Jacuzzi.”

As an exclusive retreat, The Fell offers the possibility of having every detail of your journey taken care of from the moment you reach Lapland. This can include anything from meals, husky safaris and other winter adventures, to visits to local restaurants.

A perfect Lapland getaway

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: The Fell

The Fell is a superb destination to host important life events, such as a small wedding or a honeymoon, or to simply spend quality time with loved ones. For families, the safe, enclosed location is ideal. It is just 15 minutes from the Levi resort, making it the perfect place to get to know the delights of Lapland and to unwind.

www.thefell.fi

Facebook: thefell.lapland Instagram: @thefell.lapland

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Kiisa Holiday Apartments

If you are looking for a peaceful spot for rest and relaxation, or an inspiring location for working remotely, look no further. Kiisa is a high-quality holiday home in the heart of Finland’s Lapland.

Kiisa is a high-quality holiday home in Saariselkä, in the heart of the northern fells, easily accessible by car and 25 kilometres from Ivalo airport. Two apartments are available; Kiisa A with six bedrooms for up to 14 people, and Kiisa B with five bedrooms for up to 12 people. Both apartments have saunas as well as access to a meeting room.

Ski trails are located right outside the house, and a long toboggan slope is a short walk away. Additionally, shops, restaurants and equipment rentals are all located within walking distance. “Kiisa sits 70 metres below the peak of Kaunispää fell, so guests can easily ski down to the lifts, and return back from the top back to the house, making this an excellent base for holiday getaways,” says owner Kari Saari.

There are plenty of activities in the region, ranging from husky and reindeer safaris and snowmobile trails to hiking and cross-country skiing. In addition, the Sámi Museum and Nature Centre Siida in Inari is located 70 kilometres north of Saariselkä.

To top off the experience, both apartments have one bedroom with a roof win-

dow, which allows guests to marvel at the Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds. “With easy access to nature, modern comforts and awe-inspiring views, you'll find everything you need for a rejuvenating and unforgettable getaway,” Saari concludes.

www.kiisa.net

Contact: kiisa@kiisa.net

Instagram: @kaunispaankiisa

The essence of Lapland in the work of Minna-Carita Moilanen

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Minna-Carita Moilanen

Five years ago, Minna-Carita Moilanen decided to branch out from her work as a local travel guide in Finnish Lapland and turn her painting into a profession. At the same time, Moilanen set up a cosy cottage for guests near her home in Ivalo, Northern Lapland. She now works as an artist and manages her property, enjoyed by visitors from around the world.

Moilanen paints vibrant landscapes, celebrating the light and colours of Lapland. “A customer said that I capture the soul of Lapland,” she says. Her paintings have also been transformed into digital images that are printed on trays and cutting boards, crafted in Finland using high-quality local birchwood. “I’m drawn to art that is northern and rugged. I deeply appreciate Sámi handicrafts, which is a large part of the culture in the region,” she says.

Moilanen’s Hidden Treasures is a popular summer motif. “Cloudberries are important to us northerners. We pick them in summer and eat them throughout the long winter,” the artist says. From the

winter collection, both Northern Spirit and Northern Skies are well-loved and capture the magic of the north. Moilanen herself loves Wild Power; “It’s empowering with the midnight sun, providing sustenance even during dark winter nights. Fireweed is also an important part of this painting, a wild herb that grows in Lapland and has many uses.”

Besides her paintings, Moilanen’s cottage is popular amongst international guests. “The stars are visible without the light pollution and the Northern Lights are so vibrant,” she says. “It’s perfect for people who want to get to know the local culture. One guest said something that

really resonated with me, that the cottage is a slice of paradise and that this is also conveyed in my paintings.’”

www.minnacaritas.fi

Facebook: minnacaritas

Instagram: @minnacaritas

TOPEXPERIENCE2025 INFAROEISLANDS

Celebration of music and community in Faroe Islands

G! Festival in Faroe Islands has been called ‘the wildest event on the festival calendar’. With an incredible backdrop and world-class acts, from metal to folk, electronica and stirring pop, this year’s edition is once again bound to be a not-tobe-missed music festival.

By Malin Norman

The idea for G! Festival arose from the local grassroots music community in 2002, and already the same summer the first festival took place in Syðrugøta. What was initially a small festival in the seaside village with local bands attended by around 800 people has turned into an award-winning event with around 5,500 locals and visitors from elsewhere.

the Faroe Islands, so other festivals and media from abroad were invited from the beginning. This has led to quite a few

visitors from abroad, but the festival still has a strong Faroese identity.

Initially the festival was founded to create an exciting local music event as well as to support music within and outside

World-class music

Over the years, G! Festival has seen many world-class acts, including Swedish band Europe in 2005, with 10,000 people in the audience. “Another highlight was the late Kris Kristofferson accompanied MiniTheme:

G! Festival has been repeatedly praised by media including WIRED and New York Times, as well as The Guardian which claimed that this is “probably the wildest event on the festival calendar” –whilst WIRED found G! to be “authentic and weird. Almost secret. Yet welcoming, friendly and open. Like the Faroes.” Not surprising considering the stunning backdrop and world-class acts.

Photo: Christian Hjorth

Photo: Régis Peylet

by Faroese Benjamin Petersen in 2017,” remembers Laksá, festival director. “It was an amazing musical experience, and afterwards Kristofferson even donated his fee to the Faroese Childrens’ Home.” Other previous highlights include The Blind Boys of Alabama, The Holmes Brothers, Beth Hart, Fatboy Slim, Faithless, Of Monsters and Men, and Highasakite.

Around half of the bands playing at G! Festival are from the Faroe Islands, about a third come from the Nordics, whilst the rest come from further afield. “Faroe Islands has a vibrant music scene, with plenty of creative freedom often resulting in an edgy expression, so hosting about twenty Faroese bands each year doesn’t get boring,” says Laksá.

Amongst the grassroots community founding the festival was a local girl named Eivør. At that time, she was the singer of a band called Clikhaze. She played at the first festival and has played at most festivals since. “Eivør is incredibly talented and mesmerises audiences with her stage presence and voice,” says Laksá. “She is also the winner of the prestigious Nordic Music Prize, co-writer and singer of the soundtrack for The Last Kingdom, and has millions of fans all over the world.” Amongst other Faroese acts recognised internationally are Teitur, Týr, and Hamferð.

Local community

G! Festival still takes place in the picturesque village Syðrugøta, which has around 500-600 residents. Here, three

stages are set up every year; one on the beach, another on the playground, and a small indoor stage in a barn. The festival is a family-friendly event for all ages, with children playing in the sand, happy people enjoying the hot tub and sauna and going for a dip in the North Atlantic Ocean, whilst simultaneously experiencing world-class music.

The extraordinary setting of the festival also comes with its practical challenges. “We’ve learned a lot over the years, for instance how to build a safe stage on the beach, which can become flooded at times,” says the festival director. “The weather can be unpredictable in Faroe Islands, even in July, so we need to be prepared for changes if needed.”

The setting and atmosphere is certainly different from other festivals. G! is held against the backdrop of Faroe Island’s breathtaking landscape. Caught between

the peaks and the ocean, Syðrugøta is set in an unrivalled natural amphitheatre. By bringing music and this magical place together, G! Festival is unforgettable.

G! Festival is a non-profit organisation, with all proceedings going back to the music scene in the village. The festival is a community-based project and to many villagers the highlight of the year. Members of the football club build the site, local companies move out of their offices to make room for the festival, elderly people bake bread and cakes to feed the volunteers, and not to forget, almost every house in the village serves as a backstage to the many visitors. “Without this strong local support, this would be an impossible task. I’d like to think that this makes the festival even more special,” adds Laksá.

www.gfestival.fo

Facebook: G! Festival

Instagram: @gfestival

Eivør at G! Festival in 2024. Photo: Rolf Meldgaard

Photo: Henning Dickten

Photo: Alessio Mesiano

MiniTheme: SKINCAREBRANDS FROMNORWAY

Love the skin you’re in

With a focus on quality and building strong customer relations, family-run QKoreanCosmetics has taken the Scandinavian skincare market by storm. The Norwegian webstore delivers handpicked Korean cosmetic products that help people feel good in their own skin.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: QKoreanCosmetics

South Korea has long been recognised as a world leader when it comes to cosmetics and skincare. Husband-and-wife team Alexandra Matei Amundsen and Robin Amundsen founded QKoreanCosmetics with the goal of delivering top-quality Korean skincare to the Nordics. Since its launch three years ago, the family-run business has found immense success in Norway and now also expanded to Sweden.

“The journey has been incredible so far, we sometimes have to pinch ourselves,” Matei Amundsen says. “We had grand ambitions from the start, but it wasn’t just a dream – it was a goal we knew was

within reach. We’ve always had complete trust in the quality of the products and knew they could help people.”

A limited range of high-quality products  For many, QKoreanCosmetics has felt like a breath of fresh air in the field of skincare. With strong values and passion that shines through in every aspect of the business, it has quickly become a leading supplier of high-quality Korean cosmetics in Scandinavia.

“Quality always comes first,” Matei Amundsen says. “We only offer research-backed, market-leading products made with pure, all-natural ingre-

dients. The producers we work with are well-established and professional, with a focus on research and innovation.”

QKoreanCosmetics wants to know its products inside and out, hence it offers a limited range. The team has all the in-depth knowledge necessary for personalised guidance and tailored skincare routines for its customers. “I believe our customer-centred approach

Founders Alexandra Matei Amundsen and Robin Amundsen.

sets us apart. We know and care about our customers and building good relationships with them is an important part of our business,” says Matei Amundsen. “We love connecting with existing and potential customers and giving them our expert advice. We apply a personal touch to everything we do, and I think it makes us unique.”

Central to the brand’s ideas is that skincare isn’t just about having good, healthy skin but also about wellness and personal care. According to Matei Amundsen, carving out a few minutes to take care of ourselves every day should be a priority. “Alongside fantastic products, we want to create space for wellness in daily life. We want to encourage people to take a little time to pamper themselves, allowing themselves a moment of calm even on a busy day.”

All-natural, gentle, and effective skincare QKoreanCosmetics offers products formulated with high-quality natural ingredients, suitable for all skin types and ages. The brand provides personalised skincare routines tailored to each customer’s needs. “We can create a routine specifically for each customer’s skin and individual needs, and we’re happy to discuss concerns and advise on products and their use,” Matei Amundsen says.

With no strong chemicals that could negatively impact customers’ skin barrier or

require them to wear strong sunscreen to avoid damage to their skin, QKoreanCosmetics offers safe and effective products that will suit almost anyone. “Our range of products targets a wide range of skin issues such as acne and rosacea as well as promoting general skin health and appearance,” Matei Amundsen explains. “Since our products are gentle and all-natural, they’re easy to use – you really can’t go wrong.”

The pure, natural ingredients also inspired the marketing approach. “We wanted to bring the products back into nature where they belong and show the true power of natural ingredients,” says Matei Amundsen. The vision was to take photos of the products in beautiful natural surroundings around the Nordics,

with shoot locations in Lofoten and Iceland making for stunning images that inspire customers.

“Delivering high-quality products that provide great results is at the core of what we do. We want to help people embrace their skin and feel good in themselves,” Matei Amundsen says. “Our customers often tell us that they feel more confident and that their skin has a new glow. Helping people feel good about themselves is so rewarding!”

With plans to expand sales to the Danish market next year, QKoreanCosmetics shows no signs of slowing down. “Though we’re ambitious, we’re not in a rush. Our business should grow in a safe and sustainable way that feels natural,” Matei Amundsen adds. “We get fantastic feedback from our customers and are so happy to be able to do something we truly believe in. Our journey has just started – we’re here to stay!”

www.qkoreancosmetics.no

Facebook: QKoreanCosmetics.no

Instagram: @qkoreancosmetics.no

Redefining skincare with Norwegian precision and scientific integrity

In the saturated world of skincare, few brands stand out like Norway's own Dr.Stine Ankerstjerne. Founded by Stine and Andre Ankerstjerne, both doctors, the brand merges scientific rigour with a personal passion for transformative skincare.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Dr.Stine Ankerstjerne

The Scandinavian winter has returned in its full might, and with it a season of dry skin and cracking lips. While the cold is an annoyance, it is only an addition to the long list of challenges for people with sensitive skin or other skin problems, something Stine is familiar with. “As a teenager, I struggled with eczema and sensitive skin and experienced the challenges of finding suitable products,” she explains. “I was frustrated with the over-reliance on antibiotics and prescription creams that offered only temporary solutions.”

Ten years on, without a solution for her problem, she realised a gap in the skincare market for effective yet gentle products that give results and reinforce the

skin’s natural balance for people with and without sensitive skin. “I wanted to create a skincare line that didn’t compromise on quality or results, especially for those of us with sensitive skin,” says

Stine. “After five years of product development and clinical testing on 500 people, we’ve created a skincare series that strengthens the skin’s barrier and reduces signs of ageing.”

Evidence-based skincare

The Dr.Stine Ankerstjerne brand has distinguished itself through a commitment to scientific integrity and sustainability. Rooted in clinical expertise, each product undergoes rigorous testing, with a five-product line designed to simplify yet optimise skincare routines. Tested on 500 people in dermatological studies, the products focus on measurable, visible results, all while prioritising the skin's long-term health. The philosophy is clear: real results backed by science, not promises.

“We’re committed to evidence-based skincare,” says Stine. “In just 42 days, results reported by independent dermatologists showed that 96 per cent of users

achieved reduction in wrinkles, and 100 per cent noted improved elasticity after using the bestsellers, Superfood Serum and Urban Protection Day Cream, together. In addition, all our products are vegan, paraben-free, and meticulously crafted to be gentle on sensitive skin while delivering powerful results.”

The Superfood Vitamin Gel, in particular, might be the brand’s standout product. This best-seller offers multifunctional benefits tailored to different age groups. Packed with skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin B5, vitamin A, and sea buckthorn extract, it’s designed to boost elasticity and balance.

“For younger users in their 20s, the gel serves as a lightweight, oil-regulating treatment. In their 30s, it can be used on specific areas needing added hydration and repair. For those in their 40s, 50s, and beyond, it acts as a potent serum to enhance the daily routine,” says Stine,

The founder believes that sustainability is as essential to skincare as science. Her brand reduces environmental impact through conscious material choices and minimalist packaging, ensuring that effective skincare does not have to come at the planet's expense. “Each product is designed with active ingredients that

allow for a minimalist approach, reducing both the number of products needed and overall material consumption,” Stine explains.

From Oslo to the world

It comes as no surprise that the well-established brand has brought Norwegian quality to the world stage. Naturally, it has earned significant recognition in Scandinavia, but also in the UK, where it has earned five nominations at the Beauty Awards.

“We’re slowly but surely introducing our products to the European market, but we want to make sure that we’re doing it in a controlled and proper manner,” says Stine. “That being said, it’s exciting to see

the demand from other countries, especially with the increasing interest from the Asian and Middle Eastern markets. We want to continue to explore partnerships to share our clinically backed skincare with a global audience.”

An embodiment of Nordic innovation, Dr.Stine Ankerstjerne is a fusion of scientific precision, natural beauty, and sustainable practices. For Stine, skincare is more than just beauty – it’s about achieving a balance between clinical safety and natural radiance, empowering everyone to experience firmer, healthier skin.

www.ankerstjerne.no | www.drstine.com

Facebook: dr.ankerstjerne

Instagram: @dr.ankerstjerne

BeeKi: functional and healthy skincare – empowered by bees

The natural cosmetics brand BeeKi is founded on a deep belief in bees. From a pleasant farm in the charming region of Larvik in Vestfold, the small business creates healthy, functional, and clean skincare enriched with beeswax from its own bees.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: BeeKi

It is no secret that bees play a key role in our ecosystem, and their products have a multitude of uses and purposes. According to BeeKi’s founder Tone Bryn, beeswax has been used in skincare for thousands of years due to its phenomenal nourishing and calming effects on the skin, as well as its anti-age properties.

Bryn has a fascinating background as a pharmacist with a PhD in the immune system and years of experience in the research and development of pharmaceuticals. Developing a keen interest in bees after discovering the varied health-promoting effects of bee products for the

immune system, she left her dream job as clinical research director to follow her true passion: becoming a full-time beekeeper and creating high-quality skin-

care products with nourishing oils and ingredients from her own bees.

“I’ve never regretted my choice. This is my life’s mission. I get to use every part of me in this work – my education, my heart, my passion. It’s a privilege,” Bryn says. The name BeeKi came to Bryn after a heart-to-heart with her Reiki Master about her changing path in life. “The Japanese term Ki, also known as Chi or Qi, is the vital life force that flows through all living beings. BeeKi means life force from bees,” she explains.

Last month, BeeKi celebrated its 2-year anniversary. The last couple of years have been busy – the small business has grown a strong base of happy clients, and its products have been nominated in the European Natural Beauty Awards and the Nordic Natural Beauty Awards.

BeeKi will take care of wrapping the present for you and send it where you want it to be delivered.

BeeKi uses only capping wax from own bees, ensuring that its products contain high-quality beeswax. Photo: Shutterstock

Handmade luxury

The foundation of BeeKi is a humble appreciation of bees and a deep desire to provide healthy, nourishing skincare. Bryn develops all the formulas herself, allowing her scientific expertise to shine. "Oil is not just oil," she explains, emphasizing that different oils have unique qualities and fatty acid profiles.

Made by hand in the farm’s private laboratory, BeeKi´s products are crafted in small batches to ensure freshness. Every ingredient is carefully selected to achieve the intended purpose of the product.

Known for its pure facial oils with ingredients like cloudberry seed oil and marula oil, BeeKi recently expanded its product line to include an oil-based cleanser. Bryn believes that two high-quality products, a cleanser and a skin oil, are all you need for a simple and effective skincare routine.

Bryn has noticed that more and more people experience thin, dry skin that reacts to everything. She attributes this trend to lifestyle factors, such as stress, diet, and an increased use of skin products that weaken the skin's natural barrier. A compromised barrier may lead to inflammation and issues such as sensitivity, redness and dryness. “As the body’s largest organ, our skin serves several vital functions, including being the immune system’s first line of defence against external influences. Preserving

and strengthening the skin barrier is a top priority,” Bryn explains.

BeeKi’s products provide functional skincare by protecting and strengthening the skin’s natural barrier. The range of skin oils keep the skin moisturised and supple, combats dryness, and make lines and wrinkles less noticeable. The ingredients have anti-inflammatory effects and are rich in antioxidants. Clients with a range of different skin conditions, including rosacea and acne, report significant improvement after using BeeKi.

“A holistic approach to health is vital for healthy skin,” Bryn notes, emphasizing that skincare also includes overall wellbeing. “Through our nourishing skincare, I aim to help people find inner peace,” she adds. “Our products encourage mindful

self-care, turning skincare routines into calming moments of wellness that many customers look forward to.”

BeeKi’s products are enriched with beeswax from Bryn’s own hives and contain carefully selected, skin-friendly ingredients. They are 100 per cent natural, safe for the whole family, and suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. Since the products are water-free, they do not require preservatives or additives, also making them ideal for protecting the skin in freezing temperatures and harsh, windy conditions.

Good for people, good for the planet

Bryn focuses on creating skincare that benefits both people and the planet. All ingredients are natural, mostly organic, and the beeswax is sourced and harvested by Bryn, ensuring quality and the well-being of her bees. As a certified beekeeper, she prioritizes the health and well-being of her bees. “I believe in beekeeping in harmony with the bees. I leave them in peace unless they require my assistance,” she says.

BeeKi’s products are delivered in reusable and beautiful linen bags of high quality. The bags are made in partnership with the Norwegian organisation House of Good People, which works to facilitate fair working conditions and payment especially for women in India.

www.beeki.com

Facebook: BeeKi

Instagram: @beekiskincare

MiniTheme: SKINCAREBRANDS FROMFINLAND

Bringing a touch of authentic Finnish sauna experience home

Kaurilan Sauna Shop is a hidden gem tucked away in the Munkkiniemi district of West Helsinki. This charming boutique specialises in high-quality natural cosmetics and distinctive wellness and sauna products, allowing customers to bring a touch of the authentic Finnish sauna experience home – no personal sauna required.

By Ndéla Faye

In 2009, Saara Kaivola launched a public sauna in Helsinki to bring traditional Finnish sauna culture to city dwellers. With a focus on quality and comfort, Kaivola wanted her guests to enjoy a touch of luxury through soft linen towels and all-natural products. Yet, when she searched for fragrance-free soaps, eco-friendly candles, and other high-quality items for her sauna, she realised the perfect products were not available. So, she decided to make her own.

Although the public sauna no longer exists, Kaivola’s idea blossomed into Kaurilan Sauna; a respected brand dedicated to producing handmade natural cosmetics and sustainable sauna products. One of the brand’s most popular products is an award-winning deodorant cream, designed to moisturise and protect the skin while being eco-conscious and keeping the skin fresh.

Kaurilan Sauna’s shop offers a carefully curated selection of artisan wellness items, from sauna textiles and brushes to hand-crafted soaps and vintage-inspired accessories. The shop also stocks unique finds, such as sauna hats, linen dressing gowns, and other artisanal items that are hard to find elsewhere, making it a standout for anyone seeking a distinctive souvenir.

Though the products are also available online, the shop itself is the heart of the business. Kaivola, along with her small team and Olavi the Rhodesian Ridgeback – a friendly dog and social media favourite – has made the space a welcoming haven for fans of Finnish traditions and sauna culture as well as eco-friendly cosmetics.

Kaurilan Sauna is a blend of traditional Finnish craftsmanship and luxurious, sustainable products – perfect for visitors who want to bring a piece of Finland home. With every handmade item, the brand offers a warm embrace of Finnish sauna heritage.

www.kaurilansauna.fi

Facebook: Kaurilan Sauna & Shop

Instagram: @kaurilansauna

Photo: Johanna Lind

Photo: Johanna Lind

Photo: Johanna Lind

Photo: Kaurilan Sauna Shop

Experience of The Month, Norway

Magical light festival illuminating the Norwegian winter

Based in the beautiful city of Stavanger, Glød is one of Europe’s most exciting new light festivals. Set during one of the darkest months of the year, the annual event is designed to be a light in the darkness with a focus on art, creativity, and making memories.

By Maria Sødal Vole

Stavanger is one of Norway’s oldest cities. Next year, it will be celebrating its 900-year anniversary, and Glød will be marking the grand opening of the festivities. “It’s a great honour,” says managing director Stian Steen-Forgaard. “We look forward to creating unforgettable memories when our light installations are illuminated in January.”

Norway is known for its dramatic nature and climate, and the winter is cold and dark in most parts of the country. “When the winter darkness descends over Sta-

vanger, Glød lights up both the city and our minds, transforming the cityscape and creating exciting meeting places for people of all ages,” Steen-Forgaard says.

“The festival is an invitation for people to get together and share experiences that provide energy and joy during the darkest time of the year.”

Glød, which is free and well-suited to people of all ages, is Stavanger’s first light festival. Its inaugural edition was held in January of this year and received a very warm welcome. “We had fantastic feedback from our audience. Tens of thousands of people braved the rain, snow, and cold to experience the festival,” says Steen-Forgaard.

Atmospheric light installations

Glød 2025 will run from January 18 to February 2. Due to the resounding success of this year’s event, the upcoming edition of the festival has been extended from 11 to 16 days. “We want to give as many people

Gaia. Photo: Luke Jerram

Gaia. Photo: Luke Jerram

as possible the opportunity to experience the magical moments the festival offers,” the managing director explains. “We’ve also tripled the number of light installations displayed for the 2025 edition.”

The word glød translates to glow or ember but can also refer to passion and enthusiasm. It is an apt name for a festival committed to representing the power of light and the artistry of lightwork. “The city will be aglow every evening and filled with atmospheric light installations that excite and inspire,” Steen-Forgaard adds. “Glød is for everyone, and the more people who get to enjoy the festival, the better.”

A key focus for Glød is to spread awareness of light pollution and how it can be reduced. “We encourage residents and businesses in the area to dim or turn off unnecessary lights. This way, the community can contribute to reducing light pollution while also helping to facilitate spectacular experiences. The darker the surroundings, the more magical the light installations will be.”

An exciting programme

The 2025 programme involves local and international contributions from a range of artists. Featuring many installations and events across the city, Glød invites people to find light in the darkness and rejoice in vibrant, poetic, and spectacular lightworks. “The city is like a big stage or a large canvas. The light art transforms urban spaces, allowing us to discover and see the city with new eyes,” Steen-Forgaard says.

The festival’s main attraction will be an audio-visual laser installation situated at the historic Domkirkeplassen in front of Stavanger’s Domkirke, a beautiful cathedral dating to the Middle Ages. The installation can be seen from several kilometres away and was the most popular work during Lyon’s illustrious Fetès de Lumiere festival last year. Glød will be the proud host of its international premiere.

Among other highlights of this upcoming edition’s featured lightworks is British artist Luke Jerram’s light installation Gaia, which represents the globe and measures six metres in diameter. The awe-inspiring installation has been seen by over 20 million people worldwide and will now be displayed in Stavanger’s St.

Petri church, which will also be the site of several events during the festival, including free concerts and meditation sessions.

Glød will also present The Travellers – a fascinating series of light sculptures by the French artist Cédric Le Borgne. The ethereal sculptures invite passersby into a world between dream and reality –they hover atmospherically in the sky, fly among the rooftops, and explore the city.

The last edition’s popular photography competition will also feature on the festival’s program in 2025. The competition invites spectators to capture special moments and interesting shots during the festival to be submitted with a chance to win an array of coveted prizes. Those taking part can compete for a jury-selected award decided by professional photographers and an audience award where the public votes for their favourite photos.

Glød brings people together, to share meaningful moments, and experience something truly magical. Don’t miss the highly-anticipated 2025 edition where unforgettable memories await!

www.stavangergloed.no

Facebook: Stavangergloed

Instagram: @stavangergloed

The Travellers. Photo: Cedric Le Borgne

Beacon of Light. Photo: 1024 Architecture & Loussaief Tijani, Sander Eriksen

Experience of The Month, Faroe Islands

Explore the wonders of the Faroese seas

Set against the waterscapes of Tórshavn, Føroya Sjósavn offers a window into the vibrant marine life of the Faroe Islands. With plans to expand into a state-of-the-art facility by 2028, Arctic Oceanarium is set to become a powerhouse for marine education, local engagement, and tourism. Emphasising connection with nature, Føroya Sjósavn aspires to immerse visitors, especially children, in the wonders of the sea.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Arctic Oceanarium

The Faroe Islands is home to an astonishing variety of marine life, from local cod and herring to the elusive Greenland shark and the very rare porbeagle shark, one of the largest of its kind in the world. The area, where 99 per cent of the landmass is ocean and just one per cent is land, relies heavily on the sea, not only as a source of livelihood but also as a deep-rooted cultural symbol.

“Marine biodiversity has been a cornerstone of Faroese society for centuries. The sea is woven into identity through songs, folklore, and literature; it’s a part of who we are,” says Heini Hátún, director of Føroya Sjósavn/Arctic Oceanarium.

At the heart of the new Arctic Oceanarium is a vision to create a space where Faroese and international visitors alike can connect with the rich marine ecosystem. The new oceanarium will be

2,230 square metres, with an extraordinary central tank extending through the building’s roof. It will be designed to bring visitors as close to the marine environment as possible, with natural light filtering through an open ceiling. The open-roof design allows visitors to look down into the tank. “We want people to feel like they’re at the edge of the ocean, watching life beneath the surface,” explains Hátún.

Powerhouse for knowledge

The expansion will hopefully be completed in 2028 and will be much more than an aquarium. “We envision it as a powerhouse and a bit of a landmark for Faroese tourism,” says Hátún. “Our location is close to the beach and the ocean so bio safaris and other excursions will be easily accessible. There are so many things to explore along the coast and in the depths, which is central to attracting biologists and other professionals as well as tourists.”

The new design will bring the sea up close with large aquariums in various shapes that allows you to feel immersed in marine life without the need for excessive technology. “It will be a space to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. When you enter, you will want to put down your phone, sit back, and just watch the fish, whether it be jellyfish or other deep-sea creatures,” says Hátún.

There are also hopes to house the herring shark porbeagle shark in the new facilities, as this is one of the approximately 250 fish species in the Faroe Islands, many of which you will be able to see at the new Arctic Oceanarium.

A space for marine curiosity

The centre will also feature a café and educational spaces where school groups can gain hands-on marine knowledge. Arctic Oceanarium wishes to inspire children through hands-on experiences and education. “Children already love our small but lively aquarium, which currently sees around 14,000 visitors each year, of which 3,000-4,000 are children. They

love that they get a chance to see the ocean’s wonders up close,” smiles Hátún.

The new facilities will incorporate spaces dedicated to school groups and educational workshops. This includes classrooms and experiment stations to engage and get the children curious about the rich marine life of the Faroe Islands. “Our job is to help preserve both nature and our connection to it. To help children understand how deeply the sea shapes our lives here in the Faroe Islands,” says Hátún.

Faroese connection to the ocean

With its rugged landscape and rich marine life, the Faroe Islands is a perfect lo-

cation for an aquarium of this scale and significance. Surrounded by diving and kayaking clubs, Arctic Oceanarium will be an ideal gathering point and an opportunity to collaborate with like-minded people. “Our vision is to create a space where visitors can connect with the ocean and foster an interest in nature. If we don’t maintain this connection, we won’t realise the importance of preserving nature,” adds Hátún.

The new oceanarium will be a place to explore, celebrate, and honour the waters of the Faroe Islands and the rich marine life that exists here.

www.sjosavn.net

Facebook: Føroya Sjósavn

Instagram: @foroyasjosavn

Experience of The Month, Faroe Islands

Stay in a beautifully renovated farmhouse with exceptional views

Innistova is a newly restored ancient farmhouse in Viðareiði, surrounded by spectacular scenery and breathtaking views. Renovations have taken place with great care and respect for its history, and with a personal touch and attention to detail, the result is a stunning place where you can immerse yourself in the surroundings, recharge, and simply be.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: Jacoba Jørgensen Qvade

Innistova is a place like no other and with unparalleled views. To the south, you can see Malinsfjall, to the north Villingadalsfjall, and to the east and west you have the wild expanse of the North Atlantic Ocean. The views take in known landmarks such as Kallur Lighthouse, Viðareiðis church, and Ónagerð vicarage. Every window offers a different perspective of the extraordinary surrounding landscapes.

Jacoba and Gunnar Jørgensen Qvade bought the old farmhouse in 2023. The building has since undergone a complete

refurbishment, returning it to its former glory with a modern and cosy twist, ensuring that the heart and soul of the house remains intact. “We love this place and want to share that feeling with our guests,” says Jacoba.

This is a labour of love, with a close eye on the increase in visitors to the island and a need for bespoke, high-end accommodation. The couple hails from the Faroe Islands, Jacoba from the small village of Viðareiði, and they both know the area, the people and the culture inside out. The villagers are happy to see the farmhouse brought back to life and appreciate that a local family is behind the project.

Breathing new life into an old building

The renovation project was a challenge, and when rebuilding began, the couple unearthed wood used in previous reconstructions, dating back to the 17th centu-

Gunnar and Jacoba Jørgensen Qvade.

ry. “Trees don’t grow here so they would have gone down to the fjord and collected whatever driftwood from shipwrecks that they could find,” Gunnar explains. The couple has kept many features and any salvageable interior, but everything else has been carefully, selectively and lovingly replaced or restored.

“We had the idea to renovate a house here and turn it into a high-end holiday home a few years ago,” says Jacoba. As properties like these rarely come up for sale, when the old farmhouse came on the market they had no doubt that they wanted to buy it.

“We hoped to return it to what it might have looked like in the past, but in a modernised version,” she continues. The house itself is full of history and the thought and care put into keeping this alive is remarkable.

Gunnar, a carpenter by trade who now runs an architectural firm with Jacoba, has overseen and completed all building work himself, whilst Jacoba has scoured antique markets and local shops to find pieces of furniture, cutlery, and home decor to fit with the style and age of the house.

The combination of modern, sophisticated and high-quality items with the local pieces make for a unique space. “It’s important to us that we have stayed true to the heart and soul of the building,” Jacoba says. Visiting Viðareiði is like going to a place where time has stood still, and this is cleverly also reflected in the house. “We have kept what we could,” Gunnar adds. All details throughout the farmhouse are handpicked, and the couple has maintained as many of the original features as possible.

A high-end, relaxing and authentic experience

“After just two days here, you feel recharged,” says Gunnar. Innistova is an ideal place to unwind, rejuvenate and get away from the stresses of busy everyday lives. The house and its surroundings sum up the essence of slow living, existing in harmony with nature and the elements. You can spend your days just enjoying the views, or if you feel like exploring the landscape, you can take a short walk to the starting point of the hiking trail to Cape En-

niberg, a well-known landmark with a 754 meter vertical cliff to the sea.

You are truly immersed in the culture here, with no tourist attractions or shopping centres on your doorstep. A local farmer delivers fresh produce, milk, eggs and home-cured meats, and there is an abundance of rhubarb patches around the farmhouse. The weather plays a crucial part in the day-to-day here, for locals and visitors alike. “They say that you can experience four seasons in a day here,” Jacoba says. “But I would say it’s more like four seasons in an hour!”

If you dream of visiting this remote and stunning part of the world, and experiencing a holiday in beautiful, authentic surroundings, Innistova is the place for you – a chance to reconnect, to explore the culture of this astonishing part of the world, and to just enjoy the views.

www.innistova.fo Facebook: Innistova Instagram: @innistova

Experience of The Month, Faroe Islands

Experiences of the wild and weathered beauty of the Faroe Islands

There are different ways of witnessing the stunning nature in and around this Nordic archipelago, from boat trips along dramatic coastlines, to hiking trips into its breathtaking interior. With the help of insightful guides and skilled sailors, you are guaranteed an unforgettable journey and a unique glimpse into the real Faroe Islands.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: Andrei Antal Photography

Independent company Bluegate is behind some of the most exciting tours of the Faroe Islands. It all started as a hobby project in 2017. “We had a vision that we felt could grow into something bigger,” explains Eystein í Løðu, CEO and co-founder of Bluegate, who runs the company with co-founder and CFO Ellef Ellefsen. “We had one boat and lots of ideas,” Eystein continues. The company now has a fleet of three boats that take up to 12 guests and two cabin members, and offer ‘soft adventures’ in nature. “These are not action boats, and we keep to 20-25 knots when sailing,” Eystein explains.

Safety is a priority, and the team takes every aspect seriously. “Legislation

around the safety of sailing this type of boat in these waters is crucial,” Eystein says. “Our boats and crew members are certified, meeting the highest standards of safety.” The weather is also unpredict-

able, and being able to navigate changes is crucial.“We are at the mercy of the elements,” says Eystein. The team keeps a close eye on the forecast and offers a solution if a trip is adversely affected. “If it looks like there will be a swell or a detrimental change in the weather, we either suggest an alternative experience or give a full refund,” he says. Every boat tour is an adventure, but safety is never compromised.

A local business through and through Eystein grew up on Vágar, and knows the small villages and the landscapes on the island like the back of his hand. “All our staff are local, and we offer an insiders’ view of our incredible islands,” he says. Visitors can experience magnificent views over cliffs and the sea, impressive waterfalls, rolling hills and striking rock formations.

Bluegate is one of the island’s leading boat tour operators, and at the core is a

wish to share the outstanding nature of the motherland. “Often, our guests will remind us just how beautiful it is here,” Eystein continues. “Sometimes you forget to look at what is right in front of you.”

The name is inspired by Drangarnir, an imposing sea stack shaped by the ocean, forming a natural gate. Bluegate arranges hiking and boat tours to Drangarnir, a tour de force of nature. “On some journeys we are able to sail through it,” Eystein muses. The company is also known as Aview2sea, referring to the view you can see from the sea, and Bluegate is the blue sky you can see through the arch of Drangarnir.

Excursions on sea and land

Bluegate organises a variety of experiences and all tours include a local guide as a crew member. Mykines Extraordinary is a trip to the puffin island of Mykines. Guests are dropped off and have the option of a guided walk around the island, to see the remarkable puffins and visit the picturesque little village on the western part of the island. After three hours, guests are picked up, giving plenty of opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and remarkable nature.

The Drangarnir boat and hike tour takes you close to Draganir where you are dropped off for a hike and collected 1.5 hours later. Two other tours are Drangarnir & Múlafossur and Drangarnir Sea Stack, which both start in the small har-

bour of Sørvágur. The first stop is the picturesque village of Bøur followed by Salgjógv, where you can see layers of basalt from volcanic eruptions 57-58 million years ago, the oldest visible parts of the Faroe Islands.

Next up on the tour is the Akranes area, where you might spot seals, and Skarðsáfossur. The trip continues to the spectacular Múlafossur Waterfall in the village of Gásadalur, known for its traditional grass-roofed houses. Múlafossur is only accessible by boat or by hiking from the village. Then the tour continues across the fjord to the peak islet of Tindhólmur, and a fifth and final stop at Drangarnir Sea Stack.

The boats are also available to rent for shorter or longer private tours. What all these adventures have in common is a unique way of taking in some of the most breathtaking and unspoiled scenery in the world.

Bluegate prides itself on the quality of its tours and takes great care to work in harmony with nature, and is sure to provide an authentic and spectacular introduction to the extraordinary splendour of the Faroe Islands.

www.bluegate.fo

Facebook: Aview2sea

Instagram: @aview2sea

Youtube: @Aview2sea

Tiktok: @aview2sea

Experience of The Month, Iceland

Discover the untamed part of Iceland

With over 30 years of experience, Sleipnir Glacier Tours offers awe-inspiring journeys across Iceland's majestic Langjökull Glacier. The massive monster trucks will take you on an unforgettable experience, whilst staying safe and comfortable.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Sleipnir Glacier Tours

Icelandic glaciers have been featured in countless fashion shoots and blockbuster TV series and movies, including Game of Thrones and James Bond: Die Another Day. The breathtaking landscape provides stunning backdrops for cinematic magic and now you can experience them too, thanks to Sleipnir Glacier Tours and its monster trucks.

The ice cave and glacier tour, which runs from November to March, starts by Gullfoss waterfall. “It’s the perfect complement to the popular Golden Circle route,” says Silke Freudenberger, general manager. “Our monster trucks take you to Langjökull Glacier, the second largest in Iceland, where you get the chance to explore the natural ice cave. Every year, it looks different.”

From April to October, you can go on the red glacier tour. As the ice melts away, the landscape looks like the surface of the moon. “Our mission is to ensure you get an

epic story about Iceland to share with your friends back home, regardless of the time of year,” smiles Freudenberger.

The two enormous monster trucks have been specifically designed to withstand extreme conditions. Sleipnir 1 is the biggest glacier truck in the world, 15 metres long and with 78 inch tires. The slightly smaller Sleipnir 2 is still huge, 12 metres and with 65 inch tires. Both trucks have panoramic windows, allowing spectacular views, and are equipped with restrooms too.

“Sleipnir was the horse of Odin, the God of Magic and the central God in Nordic mythology, often described as the best of all horses,” says Freudenberger. “It had 8 legs, and our Sleipnir trucks have 8 wheels. Sleipnir's horse could ride the mountains and the sky. We can't fly (yet) but we traverse the unspoiled raw terrain of the Icelandic glaciers and mountains.”

The founder of Sleipnir Glacier Tours, Ástvaldur Óskarsson, originally built the first monster truck to make adventures accessible to his son, who was living with a degenerative disease. His passion and determination resulted in a vehicle that not only brought joy and adventure to his son, but also made the wonders of Iceland’s glaciers accessible to many others.

Sleipnir Glacier Tours remains a family-run company with the third monster truck soon to be ready. Freudenberger adds; “We continue to fulfil the dream of making Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes accessible to all, especially those with reduced mobility.”

www.sleipnirtours.is

Facebook: Sleipnir Tours

Instagram: @sleipnir.iceland

Experience of The Month, Iceland

Immersive glacier experiences with highly experienced guides

If you want to avoid the crowds, join Ice Guardians for personal tours in the untouched wilderness of Iceland. This team of knowledgeable guides offers immersive experiences for true explorers. Get ready for some unforgettable outdoor adventures.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Ice Guardians

Ice Guardians provides sustainable tours and activities in and around Vatnajökull National Park, one of three UNESCO World Heritage sites in Iceland. The Vatnajökull ice cap is the largest in Europe, so there is plenty to see and do for the intrepid.

Founded by two internationally experienced and qualified guides, Kish and Rich, Ice Guardians offers personalised glacier hikes and climbing tours, canyoning and more around this spectacular natural wonder – with the overarching mantra to Explore, Learn and experience. “We explore the blue crevasse fields in various glacier outlets, we go ice climbing and canyoning, we go on glacier hikes to more remote caves, and much more,” says Rich.

Originally from New Zealand, Rich has many years’ experience working as a

senior guide there. “With Ice Guardians in Iceland, we wanted to offer tours that we would actually enjoy going on ourselves, away from the crowds,” he says. “Our philosophy is that of understanding our environment around us, in order to appreciate and protect it. All whilst having quality adventurous experiences.”

Personalised tours, with expert guides

Ice Guardians guides small groups of up to four people at a time on their full day hikes. Ice climbing clinics are strictly private 1:2 ratio. The tours are personalised, with a promise of an immersive experience, and offered year-round. Cave visits are not always available in summer but the crevasse fields are always there to explore. There is much to see and do in this vast national park.

During the tours, both experienced people and beginners can take part. “Everyone needs to be reasonably fit, have some kind of previous outdoors experience, and importantly an adventurous spirit,” says Rich. “There is no limit to how challenging a tour can be, but we always make sure that people are aware of the type of tour and that they are properly briefed and equipped. Also, we provide a detailed conditions report beforehand and make sure that everyone knows what to bring and wear.”

www.ice-guardians.com

Facebook: Ice Guardians Iceland  Instagram: @iceguardians_iceland

Experience of The Month, Greenland

Ultimate adventures in the beautiful Arctic wilderness

Combining a love of the great outdoors and extreme sports, this Nuuk-based company offers a wide variety of experiences of Greenland, from extreme trail races for thrill seekers, to boat trips and mountain hikes for nature lovers. Greenland Arctic Xplorers is at the forefront of unparallelled and extraordinary adventures.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin

Greenland Arctic Xplorers is a tour operator like no other, with a background in extreme trail races. Built on a love for adventure and the great outdoors, this booming family-run business is behind three of Greenland’s most attended extreme running races. Since expanding the company in 2023, it now offers a comprehensive range of open and closed charter boat tours and holiday cabin rentals.

Owner and founder Jens Kristian Berthelsen set up NuukKap Extreme Running Race 12 years ago, and one of his main aims has always been to share the beauty of Greenland’s unique nature and breathtaking landscapes. “One of the things we

enjoy doing most is taking tourists into the real wilderness of Greenland,” Berthelsen says. Respect and appreciation of the flora and fauna in and around Nuuk is a crucial part of the events and tours organised.

Working alongside Berthelsen is his son and co-founder Qooqu Chemnitz Berthelsen and daughters Niviaq Chemnitz Berthelsen and Nuunu Chemnitz Berthelsen. “My two daughters both ski competitively at a high level and have participated in the World Cup several times,” Berthelsen says, himself an experienced skier, so the apple does not fall far from the tree!

Adventurous trail races

NuukKap is a tough 110 kilometre long race not for the fainthearted, which must be completed within three days. The route goes from Nuuk to Kapisillit, and participants stay the night in tents during the race. “We arrange every aspect of the race from the event itself, to the tents and meals for our guests,” Berthelsen says. The event has grown in popularity over the years, reaching 170 participants a few years ago. This annual race takes place during the first week of July.

Photo: Fabio Accorra

Photo: Jens Kristian Berthelsen

The KangNu Extreme Running Race, which is in its 24th year, goes from the Kangerluaarsunnguaq fjord (The Copper fjord) to Nuuk and has three distances, from the very challenging and ITRA approved ultra run distance 56 kilometres, to 35 kilometres and the more accessible 20 kilometres, which you can either walk or run.

The 1653 Kiinaasaq Extreme Race runs from Kapisillit to the top of the highest mountain in Nuuk. It also has three different distances to choose from and you can walk the shortest trail, enjoying nature along the way rather than racing to win. “The journey itself is what matters,” says Berthelesen. “A big part of the joy for us is sharing our love of nature here.”

Arctic wilderness and local culture

Greenland Arctic Xplorers also arranges a vast selection of boat tours, which take in the more secluded and unapproachable parts of Nuuk’s coastline, from day trips on the Nuuk fjord and tours to Kapsillit, to fishing trips on the fjord where a local chef will prepare your own catch for dinner, to unforgettable trips on the ice fjord, whale safaris, and excursions, to the stunning island of Qoornoq, which takes you to the very heart of Greenland.

Whichever adventure you seek, the experienced local guides will take you on an incredible journey through some of the most stunning landscapes on earth, and you may even spot a reindeer or an Arctic fox along the way.

The company currently has two rental cabins in Kapisillit; Illu Majuala caters for six people and Illu Saqqaannguit sleeps ten. In the near future, the team will also be able to offer Illu Aningannaa, a cabin for six in Qoornoq. The cabins are a perfect blend of comfort and cosiness, and a chance for guests to spend more time in the area and delve a little deeper into the nature and the culture of Greenland.

As well as expanding the family business, cabins, tours and races bring many visitors to Nuuk, and this is an important aspect of the vision. Greenland Arctic Xplorers is fully committed to responsible tourism and supporting local com-

merce and culture, always being mindful of the surrounding nature.

Whatever adventure you seek, from adrenaline-fuelled extreme races in a land of ice and snow, to serene moments spent in magnificent wilderness at sea or on land, Greenland Arctic Xplorers is guaranteed to take you on an unforgettable journey, and with its vast experience and a deeply-rooted respect for nature, the team will share with you this stunning country and fascinating culture.

www.greenlandarcticxplorers.com

Facebook: Greenland Arctic Xplorers

Instagram: @greenlandarcticxplorers

Photo: Qooquu Chemnitz Berthelsen

Photo: Jens Kristian Berthelsen

Photo: Fabio Accorra

Experience of The Month, Greenland

Stepping into Greenland’s wild and beautiful nature

If you dream of adventures in Greenland, being surrounded by wilderness, sea and mountains, Asiaq Boat Charter can arrange a trip of a lifetime. With utmost respect for nature and the elements, the team invites you to experience the beauty and wonder of this stunning country.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin

Asiaq refers to someone who sails or steps into nature and for Arnannguaq Heilmann Christensen, founder, owner and CEO of Asiaq Boat Charter, this is at the heart of her business. A trained nurse, she spent over ten years working in management, before deciding to give time and attention to what she truly loves. “I decided to spend my precious time doing something I love. I love nature and want to share the joy with others,” she says. This is the driving force behind her company.

Arnannguaq grew up the daughter of a fisherman and after sailing for 15 years, she is now an experienced seafarer. Asiaq Boat Charter is Greenland’s first female-owned boat charter company, and in just one year demand has gone through

the roof. “I started with a small boat for six passengers and two crew members,” says Arnannguaq, who is now adding a bigger 12-person boat to her fleet.

The company has been a success beyond expectations. Whilst not the only woman to sail in Greenland, many have shown great interest in the country’s first female charter boat captain and CEO. “There are few women in this business, which has definitely been a part of the interest,” Arnannguaq adds. She has one crew member, fellow seaman Susanne from Nuuk, and sometimes brings her three boys on board too.

The trips range from 3-hour to 4-day private, tailor-made adventures, from fish & eat tours, whale watching and

fjord safaris, to puffin spotting, hiking and climbing tours. “I really enjoy taking guests all the way up to the very north of Greenland,” the founder says.

Next season, Asiaq Boat Charter will offer longer trips to northern Greenland with the new boat, Targa 35, which arrives in Nuuk next month. Arnannguaq will focus on arranging longer tours of a more extreme character, which will take in the country’s beautiful scenery, from abundant nature to harsh icebergs and towering mountains.

Whichever nature adventure your heart desires, Asiaq Boat Charter will deliver an unforgettable experience of Greenland's breathtaking and outstanding landscapes.

www.asiaqcharter.gl

Asiaq Boatcharter Aps

Isaajap aqqutaa 18, 3900 Nuuk T:(+299) 56 56 75

E: asiaqcharter@lsg.gl

CEO, founder and captain Arnannguaq Heilmann Christensen. Photo: Nivi Jensen

Asiaq on a Health Tour with a group of young people. Photo: Arnannguaq H. Christensen

Susanne and Arnannguaq. Photo: Eleonora Heilmann

Photo: René Christensen

Experience of The Month, Finland

A Finnish paradise in Lapland

A love of travel led the Soini family to create a dream holiday destination by the shores of Lake Tuomijärvi in Finland. A relaxing retreat in the middle of Finnish Lapland, the Soini’s rent their Arctic Villa Tuomi to guests, offering high-quality accommodation in a peaceful setting with a variety of activities to enjoy.

Eepu and Janne Soini provide an authentic Finnish Lappish villa to travellers looking to catch their breath and enjoy the silence. “They can relax in a private hot tub, watch the Northern Lights, and sleep soundly,” says Eepu. Equipment for activities like ice fishing, snowshoeing, and sledging is provided. Guests can also arrange guid-

ed trips with the Soini family, enjoy husky rides or Finland’s famed Santa Claus village, only a 15-minutes’ drive away.

“We’re proud of our homeland and way of life,” says Eepu “The villa is decorated with Finnish interior design in mind, including cutlery, dishes and luxury bedding.” There is a traditional Finnish barbeque as well where guests can make dinner and enjoy the clear night sky, uninterrupted by light pollution. The villa is perfect for families or couples, comfortably accommodating 4-5 people.

Arctic Villa Tuomi is located beside the lake in a forest, a short distance from Rovaniemi which offers winter sports arenas, shopping and restaurants, for those

By Molly McPharlin

craving a visit to an urban area. And the distance to the Arctic Circle is about 15 minutes.

The villa’s guests are mainly from abroad. “We’ve had people from other parts of Europe, the US, and even Asia. They want a taste of the Finnish lifestyle and we provide this,” says Janne. “But mainly, we want them to enjoy themselves. At our villa, peace and quiet is guaranteed.”

Instagram: @Arctic Villa Tuomi

Airbnb: Arctic Villa Tuomi

Photos: Arctic Villa Tuomi

Travel Profile of The Month, Greenland

Discover the untouched beauty of Disko Bay

Nestled on the west coast of Greenland, Disko Bay is a pristine wonder of Arctic beauty. Among other things, the region is known for Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unique Tours offers travellers an authentic Greenlandic experience through boat tours, snowmobile adventures, and dog sledding. Rooted in the community, this family business not only showcases Disko Bay’s beauty but also contributes to local livelihoods.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Unique Tours

Disko Bay in Greenland is a place of immense beauty. Here you can see icebergs floating peacefully, fjords stretching endlessly, and surrounding mountains. The landscape is almost something out of a fairytale and a little bit surreal. With Unique Tours, you can explore this spectacular corner of the earth yourself. Whether through summer boat tours or winter snowmobile rides, each tour will give you an opportunity to get a flavour of this extraordinary region.

“Nature is not just a backdrop; it’s part of our way of life. We take our guests where they can feel that connection to nature,” says Lars Erik Gabrielsen, founder and

owner. Unique Tours is a family business, and it is about more than tourism – it is a chance to share an understanding of the land. If marvelling at Ilulissat Icefjord, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site,

is on your bucket list, an adventure with Unique Tours is just up your alley.

From dog sledding to whale watching Gabrielsen had the idea for Unique Tours about ten years ago, and in 2020 offered the first tour. Since then, the family-run business has grown to three boats and tours year-round. “We have a much bigger boat now, which has been a game changer for us. It’s perfect for longer trips as it offers more comfort than the smaller ones. It also allows people to be on deck to take photos,” smiles Gabrielsen. For Unique Tours, one of the most important values is to keep its promises to travellers, which is reflected in the exceptional tours with rarely any cancellations.

Unique Tours also collaborates with locals who operate dog sleds, for additional opportunities in winter – and if lucky, you might even see the Northern Lights on a tour. Dog sledding in Greenland holds a deep cultural significance, tracing back over 4,000 years, and has been

essential for hunting and transportation in harsh Arctic conditions. “We love giving guests a taste of the real Greenland. When dog sledding, you are in the wild. There is no one to disturb or distract you. There is no noise. It’s just you and nature,” says Gabrielsen.

During the summer months, you can also experience migrating whales, including humpback, fin and minke whales. These giants are truly majestic creatures and a must-see if you visit Greenland in summer.

Stories from Greenland

Unique Tours is committed to involving the local community and creating sustainable employment opportunities. The team collaborates with locals to offer

dog sledding tours and has invested in training young adults as licensed tour operators. “We want to make sure that there is work year-round for our people,” says Gabrielsen. “In winter, we carry out various construction and building projects, so we don’t have to let people go. And we also offer snowmobile tours during the winter season.”

Storytelling is a central part of the experience with Unique Tours. Gabrielsen explains; “For us, this isn’t only about showing nature, it’s about telling stories about Greenlandic traditions and our way of life here. Guests can hear first-hand about the history of the area, taste local food, and experience a deeper connection with our land.”

Unique Tours also has ambitious plans for the future, aiming to build cottages in Ilulissat by 2026. These cottages will offer year-round accommodation. “Our hope is that these cottages will create a home base for travellers who want to see Greenland in all seasons,” adds the owner.

Through its tours, and future accommodations, Gabrielsen and his family provide a unique experience of Disko Bay. “There is no place quite like Disko Bay, and we just want to share it with others the way we know it,” he adds. With untouched landscapes and rich history and culture, Unique Tours invites visitors to experience a Greenland that only a few get the chance to see.

www.uniquetours.gl Facebook: Unique Tours

Travel Profile of The Month, Norway

Where comfort meets the Norwegian wilderness

In a world that never seems to slow down, finding true peace can feel like a luxury. For those seeking a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively, Hvilepust offers a sanctuary unlike any other.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Hvilepust

With the height of the holiday season approaching like a rattling freight train, the headache and stress of crowded streets, gift shopping, and Secret Santa are bound to hit. Even worse are the cold, long nights that follow – an endless darkness that seems to swallow us whole. Still, winter does not need to be miserable! Why not take the time to escape into Norway’s scenic nature and unplug from the hustle and bustle of real life for a while?

“Hvilepust offers a luxurious glamping experience in 360-degree transparent glass igloos among the natural gems of Eastern Norway. All our locations are off the beaten path, so you’re completely on your own here and can enjoy the company of your travel companions,” says Rolf Arne Leer, founder of Hvilepust.

Nestled in some of Norway's most stunning landscapes, Hvilepust’s glass igloos

allow guests to unwind and reconnect with nature in perfect solitude. With panoramic views, each igloo immerses you fully in your surroundings, from lakeshores and lush forests to tree-top retreats. Here, your only companions are the rustling trees, the stars above, and perhaps even the shimmering dance of the Northern Lights.

From big city hustle to nature’s nest

The story of Hvilepust does not begin in Norway’s lush forests, but in the never-sleeping, buzzing city of New York.

“After 5 years in New York, where I ran a magazine, organized events, and lived in the centre of the fast-paced rat race, the

pandemic brought an involuntary pause,” says Leer. “I temporarily returned to Norway, thinking I was going to ride out Covid at my cabin.”

In some of most peaceful surroundings the world has to offer, Leer found himself changed. He got the chance to sit back, breathe, and just take a much-needed break. The initial return home to sit out the storm went from temporary to permanent. “Nature did something good for me. It was peace of mind in a chaotic world.”

With a newfound direction, Leer founded Hvilepust as a chance to help others find the same solace he experienced, bringing the best of modern comfort into pristine natural surroundings.

Unwind under the stars

Whether you want quality time with a partner, family, friends, or just a break from work, Hvilepust is like a reset button. Each igloo is entirely private, making it possible for guests to let go of daily worries and embrace the freedom of the forest. "We can promise an unforgettable experience,” says Leer. “Guests can expect full discretion. You can even dance around in your birth suit if that’s your forte.”

While many people like to book the igloos during summer, Leer finds a stay during winter to be more spectacular. With a wood stove, unlimited firewood and an extra gas heater in each igloo, you can cosy up and enjoy the bright, starry

sky and blankets of snow, all without the wicked wind or nipping cold.

“Winter offers romance, candlelight, a fireplace, and occasionally the chance to see the Northern Lights,” says Leer. “While we can’t guarantee the Northern Lights, next year is predicted to have more activity than ever. Just imagine lounging with a glass of wine in a transparent igloo, watching the miracle dance across the sky – magical!”

Even though winter is Leer’s favourite season to stay, and there is enough heating for a comfortable stay, Leer still recommends that all guests bring warm winter clothes. After all, it is in the middle of nature and nights may drop to minus 15-20 on the colder days.

More than just a place to sleep, each Hvilepust igloo is designed as a multi-functional space with plenty of room to relax and lounge. “We’ve chosen not to make the bed the focal point,” the founder says. “Instead, the igloos are designed as

cosy lounges with several chill-out zones, so guests can enjoy a meal or a glass of wine before unwinding for the night.”

If you are someone who cannot sit still for too long, do not fret. The igloos are easily accessible from Oslo, even by public transport to some of the locations. Further, Leer explains that the hosts at each location have put their own touch on the experience, offering everything from alpaca walks to husky tours, canoe rentals, fishing equipment, breakfast in bed, and a glamping basket with various dinner ingredients that can be cooked over an open fire.

For anyone yearning to escape the ordinary and rediscover life’s simple pleasures, Hvilepust is a gateway to serenity. Here, wrapped in the warmth of a glass igloo with only nature as your neighbour, you can truly kick back and relax.

www.hvilepust.com

Facebook: HvilePust

Instagram: @hvilepust_

Travel Profile of The Month, Norway

Family-run business celebrating Sámi food and culture

Gallas is a unique meeting place, restaurant and event space near the historic town of Røros in Trøndelag. Here, a family shares knowledge and passion for Sami food and culture with visitors, with a special focus on reindeer meat prepared according to time-honoured traditions.

By Maria Sødal Vole | Photos: Gallas

You will find Gallas nestled within scenic surroundings in the beautiful area of Vika in Røros. This is an area with a fascinating history – the charming town of Røros is a World Heritage site known for having one of Europe’s oldest wooden settlements.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Gallas is run by husband and wife Svein Ole Granefjell and Hanne Svinsås Magga. As proud Sami people, preserving and sharing their rich culture and traditions is important to the family. “We want to represent Sami food and culinary culture in a positive way,” Magga says. “Our goal was always to serve reindeer meat the way we’re used to from home – to give people a taste of our traditional food.”

The word gallas means full, as in hunger satiated. While known for fantastic food with a focus on top-quality reindeer meat, Gallas prides itself on not being a stiff establishment. “Ours is a different experience than a normal restaurant,” Magga says. “When people come to Gallas, they’re visiting us.”

Serving hearty fare, Gallas differs from other high-class restaurants that may serve delicious, beautifully presented food but in tiny portions. “At fancy restaurants, the food looks like little pieces of art, but doesn’t fill you up,” says Granefjell. “We want people to leave here feeling full and happy.”

Alongside flavoursome food, the husband-and-wife team believes the warm

and welcoming atmosphere contributes to guests’ enjoyment of the space. The building has a distinctive exterior and inside, a fire pit, old-fashioned oil lamps and candlelight set the mood. “Sharing a meal is a wonderful opportunity to share culture and knowledge. Through the taste, smell, atmosphere, and well-being that food brings, you can build bridges and create relationships,” Magga says. “We love to tell our guests about the food, the history and traditions behind it, where it comes from – a lot of people find it interesting.”

As an event space, Gallas can play host to almost any occasion. “We’ve hosted a wide range of organisations, government institutions, businesses and families. We handle everything from work lunches to baptisms and birthdays,” adds Granefjell. “We’re a small family business doing our best to make our guests happy.”

www.gallas.no

Facebook: Gallas

Hanne Magga and Svein Ole Granefjel

Culture Profile of The Month, Finland

Blending Finnish tradition with art and modern hospitality

In a peaceful and remote part of northern Greenland, unparalleled adventure awaits. Whilst enjoying the comforts of modern accommodation and stunning views of the Uummannaq fjord, you are welcomed into a local community with deeply rooted cultural traditions, to enjoy an experience of true tranquillity and exhilarating adventure.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Villaforss

During the winter season, Villaforss is like a Christmas bubble and the villa and the courtyard are decorated gracefully. The historic park is a winter wonderland and soft candlelight enhances the villa’s historic charm. Here, you can enjoy the evening reading a book by the fire with a warm Christmas drink. Santa Claus and his elves also like to spend time at Villaforss. If you are lucky, you might even see the Northern Lights.

In summer, the idyllic porches and pergola transform into wonderful spaces for dining with food cooked over an open fire. Autumn offers stunning scenery with changing colours, and you can enjoy relaxing walks along the river and in the historic area Kehräämö.

House with strong family roots

Hosts Maarika Maury and Juha Valkamo bring warmth, local culinary traditions and a wealth of experience to every stay, making this a unique retreat. The villa itself is full of both modern and classical art. “We have five bedrooms, a grand hall, a room with a fireplace, a library, a spacious kitchen, art attics, summer porches,

and a sauna,” says Maury. The villa is perfect for 2 to 4 couples or families. Guests can book the entire house or just a room, or they can choose to stay with the hosts for a truly immersive experience.

Maury, who is also an artist, writer, screenwriter and coach, has a profound bond with the villa, having known it as her grandparents’ home. “I have many happy childhood memories in this house, which I called mummola, meaning granny’s,” she shares. “My grandparents were warm and welcoming to everyone, therefore I want our guests to experience the same feeling here.”

Her co-host Valkamo ensures that every detail of the guest experience is flawless. His family has a background in the restaurant and bakery business, so brings his own extensive expertise in hospitality, food and wine, as well as a nature guide. Together, Maury and Valkamo offer a mix of artistic, cultural and local knowledge, making every stay memorable.

Deep-dive into Finnish culture

Villaforss is an ideal destination for visitors wanting to immerse themselves into the Finnish way of life. “We invite guests to enjoy home-cooked meals with local ingredients. They can even participate in cooking, picking berries and foraging mushrooms, and also visit food markets,” explains Valkamo. “But it’s not just about food; we can do excursions, listen to piano performances by local musicians, or paint with the resident artist.” Activities also include playing tennis with the hosts, listening to Finnish stories, discovering cultural and nature’s hidden gems, and of course indulging in the villa’s wood-heated sauna.

The hosts are always ready to help guests tailoring their holiday. “Our motto is that everything is possible – so we do our best to give our guests the perfect stay that they want,” Valkamo adds. “You can enjoy a relaxing retreat or fill your stay with experiences and activities.”

The Forssa region offers endless activities. This vibrant small town has a deep-rooted history in the textile industry and culture. The prime location makes it an ideal destination at the intersection of Finland’s major cities, close to international airports and within reach of numerous cultural landmarks and stunning landscapes.

For guests searching for an active holiday, there is a range of things to do, including canoeing, fishing, cycling, golf, horseback riding and hiking. During winter, guests can explore the snowy landscape when snowshoeing, ice swimming

or skiing. Two nearby national parks also have opportunities to enjoy the attractive nature of Finland.

“For a lakeside experience, guests can enjoy an unforgettable private stay at The Great Oak, a beautiful modern holiday house with a lovely fireplace, terrace and sauna with hot tub,” says Maury. “It’s perfect for lake swimming, cooking smoked fish under a 350-year-old oak tree, or ice fishing in winter.” For those seeking something more adventurous, there’s the option of visiting Lapland with the hosts, all the way to Utsjoki, Finland’s northernmost area.

The house of Scandinavian leadership

The villa was originally built for the directors of the Finlayson factory. Maury´s grandfather was one of them. Later, NHL coach Alpo Suhonen renovated the villa and lived here over 20 years.

For business travellers, this house of Scandinavian leadership offers a deep dive into the essence of Finnish leadership, focus-

ing on three core principles; simplicity, involvement and sustainability. Maury, who is also known as a business coach and strategist, bought the villa a few years ago.

Villaforss is far more than just a place to stay; it showcases Finnish history, culture and lifestyle. “Guests leave with memories and a deep connection to the traditions and stories embedded in the villa’s walls,” Maury concludes.

www.villaforss.fi

Facebook: Villaforss

Instagram: @villaforss1903

Email: villaforss@villaforss.fi

Restaurant of The Month, Iceland

Indulge in culinary delights off the beaten track

In the picturesque fishing village Hjalteyri, visitors can enjoy a curated dining experience at Eyri Restaurant. This is also a meeting place for locals, who come to enjoy the culinary delights, the warm atmosphere and the stunning views of fjord Eyjafjörður.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Eyri Restaurant

Eyri is located in the small village of Hjalteyri, on the shores of fjord Eyjafjörður in northern Iceland. The brainchild of chef Nik Peros, this restaurant has become a hub for the local community as well as visitors. The village’s only restaurant, which can seat up to 30 people at a time, serves fresh, locally sourced organic food.

Think traditional Icelandic cuisine but elevated and with a high-end twist. “My dream was to have a small place not far from Akureyri, where people can indulge in something a bit different in a tranquil setting,” says Peros. Growing up in a restaurateur family, Peros also has plenty of experience cooking Arctic food on the Greenland Sea and in Finnish Lapland.

“Our menu is centred around local and organic ingredients,” says the chef. “We value Icelandic produce and strive to offer the freshest available from our area. It’s important for us to know not only where the food comes from, but also what the animals have been eating. We also forage mushrooms and collect seaweed and herbs such as Arctic thyme and Angelica – it’s such a privilege to have these local ingredients just around the corner.”

The team varies the menu depending on season, with fish and seafood as well as lamb, goose, reindeer, beef, and vegan dishes. Eyri also has its own smokery and smokes fish, meat, vegetables as well as cheese. A special treat is a dessert made with skyr, the thick and creamy Icelandic

yoghurt. In addition to its fantastic dishes, the restaurant has a curated list of wines and beers.

The small fishing village Hjalteyri, with a population of around 40, has played a fundamental role as one of the major fishing ports of the northern region. Here, the old herring factory has been converted to an artisan hub, with artist studios as well as a whale watching station and a dive centre nearby. After a meal at Eyri, guests can go for a stroll and explore the artist workshops, and perhaps unwind in the local hot tub – the perfect activity after a delicious meal.

www.eyrirestaurant.is

Facebook: Eyri - Hjalteyri  Instagram: @eyri_hjalteyri

If unable to travel to Hjalteyri, you can visit Torfanhús Restaurant in Reykjavik, which chef Nik Peros is opening with partners. It will have similar offerings as Eyri.

Restaurant of The Month, Sweden

For the love of barbecue

Take beautifully smoked meat with heaps of flavour, add a dash of locally brewed beer, and finish things off with good vibes all around. And just like that, you have Brisket & Friends – the Swedish barbecue franchise serving up a taste of Texas on the other side of the pond.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Brisket & Friends

A successful food venture for over a decade, Brisket & Friends was, as the name suggests, created by pals Ludvig Åström and Niklas Elshazly. Åström had worked in finance but dipped out to travel the USA and to dedicate more time to his barbecue passion – something he shared with chef Elshazly who grew up in New York.

Eventually, the duo’s paths met, a food truck was opened and today, Brisket & Friends has six popular restaurants in various parts of southern Sweden. This includes its Upplandsgatan venue, which is located just five minutes’ walk from Stockholm’s Central Station, with a large garden that is heated all year around.

So, what is the deal with Texas barbecue? Well, for starters, it is delicious. Secondly,

the way the meat is smoked is generally milder than other styles you may come across. ”We smoke all our meat in real American-built smokers from Oklahoma, with hickory wood that we import from the USA,” explains Elshazly. “And we get our brisket from grass-fed Black Angus cattle, which adds to the authenticity of what we do. Then we smoke our meat overnight in each restaurant, so that customers always get the freshest experience.”

And although brisket takes centre stage, there is plenty more to enjoy from the menus. Think pulled pork, loads of sides, and vegetarian options, too. All prepared with passion and precision at a decent price. Plus, you can wash it all down with quality beer from local breweries and listen to country tunes while you do. Or,

if you want to go all in American, order a traditional pickleback, made with bourbon and pickle juice.

“Our restaurants are relaxed and whether you’re looking for a chilled meal out or something more festive, the vibes are always great,” Elshazly finishes. “Just come as you are, enjoy food with your mates and get bang for your buck. What can I say? We just love Texas barbecue and want to share it with the world.”

www.brisketandfriends.se Instagram: @brisketandfriends

Bring your taste buds on a trip to Texas.

Hotel of The Month, Norway

Escape into Norway’s Arctic paradise

At the heart of Norway’s northern archipelago lies Ringstad Resort, where modern comfort seamlessly meets the wild beauty of Vesterålen. With breathtaking views and a range of activities suited for every season, the resort promises guests an unforgettable experience.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Ringstad Resort

Imagine a place where the landscape is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. Nestled along the shores of Vesterålen where shimmering fjords meet undulating mountains, Ringstad Resort offers up the coastal wilderness for you to explore.

Established in 2021, Ringstad Resort was born from a vision of owner Dag Jakobsen to create a sanctuary of wellness and unforgettable experiences in his native Bø. “Ringstad Resort’s story began with a commitment to harmonise wellness and quality experiences alongside nature, rooted in the area’s rich history and natural splendour,” says Marina Tunstad, general manager.

Located on Norway’s northwestern edge, the resort offers an immersive experience where every window opens to the tranquil lapping of waves, and every path leads to

a deeper sense of calm and connection with the surroundings. “Since opening, the resort has become a cherished destination for relaxation, inspiration, and adventure, a home-away-from-home with luxurious touches such as well-appointed suites, and an unmatched attention to detail that enhances guests’ stay.”

Ringstad Resort is not just a scenic destination, it is a prime venue for inspiring conferences and corporate events. With a conference room that accommodates up to 60 people and a restaurant with seating for up to 90, the resort is tailored to host both intimate meetings and larger corporate gatherings.

Set in Bø municipality, often called a hiker’s paradise, this venue provides a tranquil, rejuvenating atmosphere that fosters reflection and productive discussions. Attendees can find fresh inspiration in an

environment designed to fuel creativity and focus. “Guests can explore the surroundings through activities such as eagle safaris, Northern Lights tours, kayaking, and fishing trips,” says Tunstad.

In addition, the restaurant will appeal to your culinary palette, emphasising the flavours of Vesterålen. It serves a variety of seasonal, locally sourced dishes prepared by talented chef Marcel Swiercz. The menu ranges from seafood buffets to traditional Sunday dinners and sophisticated fivecourse meals. Afternoon tea is another delightful moment to savour local flavours.

The resort’s flexible space, restaurant and conference centre are ideal for private gatherings and corporate events. For a teambuilding exercise, a wedding anniversary, or a much-needed escape from everyday life, look no further than Vesterålen, where you can enjoy culinary delights and views of the ever-changing seascape.

www.ringstadresort.no

Facebook: ringstadresort

Instagram: @ringstadresort

Contact: booking@ringstadresort.no

Photo: Horst Kornherr

Hotel of The Month, Denmark

A peaceful place surrounded by unspoiled nature and the sea

Nestled between the town and the sand dunes, welcoming family-run hotel and restaurant VANDret makes for a wonderful place to visit. With serene surroundings and an unparalleled beach on its doorstep, this destination offers unique and peaceful experiences for its guests.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: VANDret Hotel & Restaurant

Located 250 meters from the sea by one of Jutland’s most stunning beaches in Løkken, VANDret is an ideal place to take in wild nature, breathtaking landscapes, and high-end dining of fresh, local produce, making it so much more than just a place to sleep or eat.

“The hotel interior and the food we serve is inspired by the sea and our surroundings,” says Christian Middelbo Outzen, owner and day-to-day manager alongside his partner Jette. VANDret is situated in Løkken’s old schoolhouse, which the couple took over in 2016. After a complete overhaul, they have created a charming boutique hotel with 15 double rooms, breathing new life into an old building. Care and consideration have gone into the renovation, which also reflects the serene atmosphere and wild nature all around.

The couple opened the cosy restaurant in Easter 2023, and the calm experience of staying at the hotel extends to the restaurant. “We don’t want to rush our guests so have one sitting per night, leaving time to chat, appreciate each dish and soak up the atmosphere” Christian says. The restaurant has put Løkken on the Danish gastronomical map, and the owners aim to deliver the finest in fresh fish and food to guests.

Christian and Jette have travelled extensively and dreamt about running a small, family-friendly hotel, the kind of place they would seek out on their trips. “We reached a point thinking let’s just do this,’” he says. When the old schoolhouse came up for sale, they knew this was the place for them. It has been a huge project turning the old school into a beautiful hotel, breathing new life into the building.

But it has paid off and VANDret has proven to be a great success, bringing business and visitors to Løkken.

The combination of wild untamed nature with a peaceful and unrushed ambiance is what the couple wants to share with their guests. And a visit to VANDret is guaranteed to leave you feeling at peace, rested, and wanting to return to enjoy the atmosphere, the personal touches and the outstanding food time and again.

www.hotelvandret.dk/en   Facebook: Hotel VANDret

VANDret Hotel & Restaurant  Nørregade 28K, 9480 Løkken, Denmark  Jette and Christian Middelbo Outzen.

Conference of The Month, Norway

Modern conference centre in the heart of Oslo

Røde Kors Konferansesenter offers a range of well-equipped and attractive meeting rooms for groups of different sizes. Booking an event here supports the humanitarian work of an organisation committed to helping people in crisis both in Norway and internationally.

By Maria Sødal Vole  | Photos: Røde Kors Konferansesenter

With its central location in the heart of Oslo, Røde Kors Konferansesenter (the Red Cross Conference Centre) is easily accessible from most areas in Norway’s capital. The modern conference centre is located just a stone’s throw from bus and tram stops and less than 10 minutes from the Oslo Central Station, making it easy to get to for locals, commuters, and those travelling from further afield.

The centre offers several rooms of varying sizes and a high degree of flexibility, making it possible to tailor events to different requirements. Meetings and conferences can be arranged according to the needs and preferences of the customers; participants can gather in one room or split up into smaller meeting

rooms, and there are several possibilities for room layout.

“We have broad experience in facilitating events and can adapt to the circumstances of each customer,” says conference

manager Eystein Sæther. “We’re also aware that budgets can vary greatly, and many customers appreciate our guidance on running a successful event. In addition, we can advise on areas where it might be possible to make savings as we don’t want to upsell customers unnecessarily.”

Well-developed rooms and facilities

The centre’s seven modern meeting rooms are well-equipped, flexible and attractively designed. With comfortable seating and opportunities to change the room layout according to customer preferences, all types of meetings can be accommodated. Accessibility is key, and a recent refurbishment improved access for those with disabilities. The centre now has a platform lift and accessible toilets, and audio induction loops enable hearing aids to automatically connect to the system in almost all rooms.

The meeting rooms are all equipped with flatscreens, Wi-Fi connection and easy

accessibility to Zoom/Teams, as well as high-tech audio and video equipment. The centre’s largest hall, named after Red Cross co-founder Henry Dunant, can seat up to 200 guests and features a stateof-the-art LED screen offering fantastic images and sound. “For an event to run smoothly, it’s crucial that the technology works seamlessly,” Sæther says.

Social spaces and refreshments

Alongside meeting rooms, there are several areas for socialising, relaxing or working. The spacious foyer provides great opportunities to mingle or catch up on emails in between meetings, and the charming courtyard has plenty of seating and is a perfect spot for enjoying some fresh air. The centre’s large dining hall and canteen serve a variety of fresh and delicious food, however groups of 40 people or more are requested to order meals in advance from an extensive menu.

The centre also offers a range of catering options. “In my experience, food and refreshments contribute to an enjoyable and productive conference,” says Sæther. A variety of snacks, drinks and meals can be provided for meetings and conferences of all sizes. Food can be pre-ordered from a comprehensive menu of nourishing, tasty options such as salads, baguettes, wraps, smoothies and baked goods. According to Sæther, a platter of fresh fruit is usually a welcome addition to a meeting room – though cake

can also be a lovely treat after a successful day of meetings. Unlimited tea and coffee is included in the rental price, and several coffee machines are placed around the building.

Committed to sustainability

The Norwegian Red Cross supports the United Nations' sustainable development goals and is Eco-Lighthouse certified. Every effort is made to ensure environmentally friendly practices are implemented across the organisation. The conference centre requests that anyone renting meeting rooms complies with guidelines aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the event, such

as avoiding single-use products and sorting waste according to directions.

“As a Red Cross initiative, our daily operations reflect the values of the organisation. Sustainability is one of our key principles,” Sæther explains. “When a customer is planning an event here, we offer guidance on food allocation to avoid unnecessary waste. Sometimes there will be a surplus of food, in which case we try to have it redistributed by one of Oslo’s wonderful charities and non-profit organisations that work with disadvantaged people.”

www.rodekors.no/om/kurs-og-konferansesenter

Product of The Month, Faroe Islands

Bring home a piece of the Faroe Islands

Faroese Houseplant offers visitors a chance to bring home a little piece of the Faroe Islands. Inspired by the traditional turf-roofed houses, these miniature versions are fun souvenirs, especially for young ones who can grow their own little rooftop garden.

When visiting the Faroe Islands, you will immediately notice the traditional turfroofed houses that seamlessly blend into the green landscape. Inspired by these structures, Faroese Houseplant has created miniature versions of the homes so you can bring home a piece of the Faroe Islands.

As a tour guide, Bjørg Jacobsen noticed tourists’ fascination with the grassroofed houses. Realising there was a desire for meaningful souvenirs, he created miniature versions of these traditional houses. “I wanted to create something that was not just another magnet or mug. I wanted to capture the charm of the Faroese homes,” says Jacobsen, owner of Faroese Houseplant.

The miniature houses are crafted with recycled materials, such as popsicle sticks, and have a milk carton base. Each house comes with soil and seeds so you can cultivate your own little rooftop garden, something that especially children enjoy. “There’s something universally appealing about watching something grow –

www.cosytimesceramics.dk

Instagram: @cosytimesceramics.kerteminde

By Heidi Kokborg

Faroese Houseplant

it brings a sense of connection to nature,” says Jacobsen.

Available in Tórshavn and nearby villages, Faroese Houseplant has become a popular choice at the airport and local shops, offering travellers a small yet meaningful piece of the Faroe Islands’ heritage and culture. Faroese Houseplant is also available on Etsy.

Facebook: Faroese Houseplant Instagram: @faroesehouseplant Etsy: FaroeseHousePlant

Photos:

Artist of The Month, Norway

The wonder of creating

The creative Norwegian painter and sculptor Henriette Emilie Finne has almost 100 exhibitions behind her. With new separate exhibitions coming up in 2026, the innovative visual artist is, as ever, unafraid to experiment with new styles, forms and modes of expression.

By Maria Sødal Vole

From exhibition Skyld og uskyld. Photo: Henriette Finne

Finne’s work has been shown at many art galleries over the years, and her pieces have been purchased by several large companies and organisations, including Fred Olsen Cruise Line and The Grieg Art Collection.

Fresh from recent exhibitions across Norway, Finne is currently working on new artworks. Looking ahead to 2026, the artist is planning a large separate exhibition in Oslo. She devotes a lot of time to studying and completing her works, and the process can take up to five years as she works concurrently on several pieces.

Finne’s approach to her artworks resembles that of a theatre director. She values creating a distinct intensity and dynamic through processing and interweaving different techniques, both in terms of strong contrasting colours and varying textures. Through her artistic process, she seeks to evoke physical sensations as a way to connect with her own emotions and those of the audience. “Painting is my medium. I work intuitively, stag-

ing stories, moving different elements around until they find their place and shape,” Finne says.

Skyld og uskyld

In 2022, Finne completed a 6-year art project with a separate exhibition entitled Skyld og uskyld (Guilt and innocence). The project originated in the

relation between mother and child, and thoughts of war and unrest in the world. Comprising over 22 separate works, the ambitious project relates to order and chaos in nature.

The title work Skyld og uskyld, measuring 500 x 250 cm, consists of 108 small acrylic paintings on wooden boards. The size of the work and the repetitive juxtaposition of small images featuring camouflage pattern and babies refer to military order and discipline. “The baby boys represent life and the inherent innocence every human being is born with,” Finne says. “With a wider perspective on the unrest in the world today, it’s natural to feel anxious and sad. As a mother, I’m worried about everyone involved in war –everybody is somebody’s son or daughter.”

The nettle plant was a key element in the project because it grows in the wild in large parts of the world and has been known for thousands of years as useful for both dyeing and the production of textiles, as well as a nourishing and

Henriette Emilie Finne. Photo: Erling Svenni

Photo: Severin Sæter

health-promoting plant. However, its stinging hair causes pain, and it’s also considered a weed. “The plant is loved and hated at the same time,” Finne explains. “This duality and opposite relationships in the same element interests me and is present in various ways in many of my works.”

The pentagram is another dualistic element Finne has explored in her art. A widespread symbol of power, it is used in military and political contexts across the world – but it’s also a symbol of harmony and beauty, as its construction is an exact

division of the golden ratio. “Central to much of my work is my free use of known elements such as camouflage pattern, plants, geometry and babies,” she says. “Through original combinations of different elements, I attempt to visually present new ways to view opposites and connections in nature, culture and societal structures.”

At the completion of the long-spanning project, an artist book entitled Skyld og uskyld was published, documenting the artistic process and artworks. The coffee table book features fold-out pages, an element which the artist added herself by hand, and which lends the book a playful, but also exclusive touch.

Creative exploration

Finne works with both large and small formats – on paper, canvas and wooden boards. She creates individual artworks, as well as pieces assembled as diptychs and triptychs. She employs a variety of textures and painting techniques as well as experimenting with colour contrasts, refusing to be boxed in.

In her creative work, Finne is inspired by mythologies from across the world. “There are many fabled examples of the human body connected with animal bodies, such as centaurs in Greek mythology. This combination of animal and human has always fascinated and inspired me,” she says. “Ever since I was a child, Sleipner, Odin’s horse in Norse mythology, has interested me, with its eight legs and immense power. I think the way animals move and express themselves can easily be associated with human expressions and emotions, which is one of the reasons I include animal imaging in my works.”

Drawing inspiration from a wide range of sources such as dreams and myths, as well as botany, history, politics and religion, Finne works freely, interpreting and moulding as she goes. She also enjoys playing with three-dimensional shapes, combining old objects she’s found and saved, and values energy and playful exploration in artistic expression. “I need to be able to express myself freely, and I want to focus on playfulness in my new project,” she says. “To create is a wonderful feeling. Like a child, I make things I think are fun, cool, interesting, beautiful or ugly and mix them together – what could it become?”

Black Swan 150x150 cm by Henriette Finne. Photo: Henriette Finne

Photo: Henriette Finne

Himmelstormer 110x180 cm by Henriette Finne.

Photo: Gicleelab

Finne has an upcoming joint exhibition in Bergen. The beautiful city in the heart of Fjord Norway has been an important place over the course of her career, with a strong local customer base and great interest in her work. The artist is also preparing for her new exhibition in Oslo in 2026, which will draw on personal experiences and memories.

“I can be a little intense, which is why it’s important for me to try to express the acute energy I experience when my body bubbles with enthusiasm, drive, intensity, rage and desire – strong feelings that come from deep within me. I enjoy exploring this in the form of paintings on a two-dimensional surface and discovering how they can be conveyed through that medium,” Finne says. “The force of this energy is important to me in my life. We must never stifle that glow and the intensity that exists there, it’s a gold mine when it’s allowed to find its path – contained within it is a great driving force.”

www.henriettefinne.com

Facebook: Henriette Emilie Finne

Instagram: @henriette.finne

Photo: Galleri Vedholmen, Bergen

Det som ikke dreper deg by Henriette Finne. Photo: Henriette Finne

Himmelstormer 110x180 cm by Henriette Finne. Photo: Gicleelab

Photo: Galleri Vedholmen, Bergen

Christmas music… But make it Scandipop!

With radio playing the same rotation of seasonal songs every year, you can look no further than the Nordics to switch up your festive playlists and add some of the region’s own Christmas classics!

Norwegian artist Andrea Hegard has managed to incorporate a country-music twang into her sing-along seasonal delight, Home By Christmas. It’s a ditty so infectious, you might well be fashioning a stetson onto even your most sensible snow boots.

Sweden’s Magnus Carlsson gives us a cruise-ship Christmas by doing his best camp crooner impersonation on the marvellous mental-image inducing Wrap Myself in Paper. The retro-hued romp is bags of fun thanks to the tongue-incheek delivery of the knowingly laughable lyrics. You’ll be singing the chorus

Monthly Illustration

“it’s Christmas in a week in a day” long after that last bit of garish tinsel has been packed away for another year.

Mariah Carey’s all-time great All I Want For Christmas Is You is essentially a schlager song, so it’s no surprise that the Swedish stars of the genre have been coming out with Christmas songs of their own. Wiktoria’s Not Just For Xmas could well have been another global number 1 smash for Mariah, and is just as catchy. Another infectious stocking filler is Santa Bring My Baby To Me by Lisa Ajax, while schlager queen Pernilla Wahlgren gives us a flirty festive treat on Holiday With You.

Finally, we all remember the Danish pop purveyors Alphabeat. Well, while they were still making music, they had the foresight to craft a Christmas tune so that we’d keep coming back to them every Decem-

By Karl Batterbee

ber. Like so many of their songs, X-Mas (Let’s Do It Again) hits you with a rose-tinted recollection of the doe-eyed days of youth. It’s a nostalgia trip that’s turned out to be a delight to take every holiday season.

www.scandipop.co.uk

The curse of soggy crackerbread

A while back, I visited my friend in Gothenburg and had a shock when I walked into her kitchen. She had a basket with crackerbreads sitting out! It had been sitting out overnight and the crackerbread was still cracking! No crunch lost.

In the UK, all your biscuits and crackerbreads must be safely stored in closed containers, at all times. Don’t let anything sit out for longer than 30 minutes. Your biscuits will be soggy. This is the curse of living on an island. You are essentially living inside a cloud and you end up eating very sad, floppy food because of it.

There are many ways your life is affected by the moist climate of Great Britain. Your sofa mustn't sit too close to the wall unless you want mould to grow on both the furniture and the wall. If you want black mould all over your windowsills, have some regular house plants.

Do you want to go for a lovely walk in the sunshine? Bring a raincoat at all times. And then sweat buckets because the weather has decided to be muggy. Muggy! It’s the worst! Mugginess. Warm and close and awful. Don't get me wrong, I love living in the UK. But I am so over having to turn on a massive dehumidifier every time I boil an egg.

By Gabi Froden

I deeply miss being able to leave a biscuit out and return to eat it at a later stage without it having lost any of its crunch. I dream of dry, cold Scandinavia and crackerbread that doesn't bend. I want crackerbread that cracks!

Yes, these are my current complaints. Please check in later for more, because I’m sure I will have some.

Gabi Froden is a Swedish illustrator and writer, living in Glasgow with her husband and two children. Her children’s and YA books are published in Sweden by Bonnier Carlsen and Natur&Kultur. www.gabifroden.com

Scandinavian Film & TV

The Danish word julekalender, literally translated as Christmas calendar, has two meanings. It’s a special TV series running from 1 December until Christmas Eve and is accompanied by an interactive advent calendar with a box to open each day. However, unlike in the UK, each box opened is linked to that evening's episode.

By Anders Lorenzen

What started as a show for children on Danmark’s Radio (DR) in 1962 has since expanded as TV 2 Danmark adopted the popular format. Both broadcasters have also had an adult-specific show; TV 2 achieved the most success with its 1991 hit The Julekalender.

This year, by taking advantage of streaming technology, DR and TV 2 are hosting various forms of content. DR is ready with series two of its popular Tidsrejsen (The Time Journey) from 2014, which, as the title suggests, is about time travel. Younger audiences will enjoy the Norwegian production Snøfall (Snowfall), about the nine-year-old orphan Selma. Additionally, DR is making a host of previous julekalender shows available on its streaming platform from November 1.

TV 2 is doing a repeat of the 2017 show Tinkas Juleeventyr (Tinka’s Christmas Adventure). It centres around the elf girl Tinka, who together with other young elves visits the elf king to receive proof that they are real elves. Like DR, TV 2 also hosts a series of previous julekalender shows via its streaming platform. TV 2 is the only broadcaster to show an adult julekalender this year, with a repeat of The Julekalender on its sister channel, TV 2 Charlie, and streaming platform.

Supports good causes

For both DR and TV2, the purchase of advent calendars has an educational, charitable, and development focus. Since DR launched its first in 1962, the profits have been donated to help children in developing countries. TV 2 is donating the

profits to Julemærkehjemmene (Christmas tag homes), which supports vulnerable children aged 7-14 suffering from neglect, bullying, and loneliness.

Sweden and Norway also have a tradition of showing julekalender 1-24 December.

Anders Lorenzen is a Danish blogger and film and TV enthusiast living in London.

Photo: TV 2 Danmark

Scandinavian Culture Calendar

Before the year is out, we’re going all in on cultural happenings. Throughout December you’ll be able to celebrate Finnish independence and Norwegian royalty – via the medium of music. We’re also paying homage to cultural classics such as Ingmar Bergman and The Moomins, while taking the time to salute our current pop culture icons, like Röyksopp and Daði Freyr.

By Karl Batterbee

Christmas concert with His Majesty the King's Guards (5 December)

You are cordially invited to attend Norway’s Royal Palace, where His Majesty the King's Guard welcomes you to a Christmas concert in the Royal Chapel. A truly magnificent evening is promised, with a festive repertoire of music that ranges from the most well-known and beloved Christmas carols to those yuletide tunes that will get your feet tapping. Conductors for the evening will be Major Sverre Stakston Olsrud and Staff Sergeant Lise Solberg Nilsen. Slottsplassen 1, Oslo, Norway www.kongehuset.no

Rockheim presents: Röyksopp – Melody A.M. (5 December)

Norway’s Music Hall of Fame – Rockheim – presents a unique listening experience under the starry sky in the Planetarium, of one of the country’s most celebrated albums of all time, Röyksopp’s Melody A.M. The event is happening to shine a light on the fact that the internationally renowned electronic duo has just been inducted into the Norwegian Music Hall of Fame. Guests are invited to join Rockheim on a journey into Röyksopp's extra-special soundscape and listen to the entire album in the spectacular surroundings of the Planetarium at the Science Centre, with its 360-degree digital cinema and one of the world's most advanced sound systems that features 38 speakers placed in a circle.

The Science Centre Planetarium, Oslo, Norway www.rockheim.no

Rockheim presents: Röyksopp – Melody A.M. Photo: Geir Morgen Rockheim

Their Majesties The King and Queen of Norway.

Photo: Jørgen Gomnæs / The Royal Court

Finland’s Independence Day Gala Concert (6 December)

It’s a major occasion in Finland, and the national Radio Symphony Orchestra has a suitably special concert lined up to mark it. On the programme is the world premiere of a new violin concerto by Olli Mustonen, which pays tribute to Larin Paraske, a central figure in Finnish folk poetry. Audiences will also be able to enjoy Lara Poe’s breakthrough work KAAMOS, plus more tuneful treats besides. Those unable to make the celebratory concert will be able to tune in on Finnish broadcaster YLE’s website, yle.fi. The Helsinki Music Centre, Concert Hall, Finland www.yle.fi/aihe/rso

and invites both international and local artists, designers and students to create public light artworks inspired by the Nobel Prize. The light installations illuminate the Nobel Prize laureates’ scientific discoveries, literature and peace work,

while at the same time giving attendees the opportunity to see the Swedish capital and the urban environment in a whole new light… Quite literally! Stockholm, Sweden www.nobelweeklights.se

Nobel Week Lights (7-15 December)

Nobel Week Lights is a popular festival lighting up Stockholm during the darkest time of the year – a free cultural experience for everyone. The light festival is presented by the Nobel Prize Museum

Finland’s Independence Day Gala Concert. Photo: YLE Photography - Maarit Kytöharju

Nobel Week Lights

Daði Freyr at Gamla Bíó (20 and 21 December)

Icelandic pop icon Daði Freyr returns to his home country for his first live shows there in quite some time, having recently sold out multiple shows across Europe and the US. Known for his infectious songs and dry humour, Daði’s music exudes good vibes only. Many will recognise the longhaired laureate from his breakthrough viral hit, Think About Things, which catapulted Daði to fame during 2020’s lockdown era. One year later and he would represent Iceland at the Eurovision Song Contest, giving the Nordic nation a Top 5 result with his song 10 Years. Reykjavík, Iceland www.gamlabio.is

Mondays with Bergman (until 31 December)

Every other Monday, the Fågel Blå cinema in the Östermalm neighbourhood of Stockholm will be screening a film by legendary Swedish director Ingmar Bergman, as part of its monthly series Mondays with Bergman. Fågel Blå was built in 1926 and is one of the Swedish capital’s oldest cinemas. It was also Ingmar Bergman's childhood cinema, where he would go to watch films for the first time himself. All Mondays with Bergman screenings come with English subtitles.

Bio Fågel Blå, Stockholm, Sweden www.biofagelbla.se/mmb

Tove Jansson – Paradise (until 6 April 2025)

Helsinki Art Museum’s major exhibition takes an in-depth look at Tove Jansson’s public paintings, through which she shared joy, beauty and windows into magical worlds of storytelling. Filling half of the museum’s exhibition space on two floors, it presents over 180 artworks and other exhibits, along with a notable col-

lection of previously unexhibited sketches. The exhibition additionally celebrates 80 years of Jansson’s most famous creation; The Moomins. In 2025, eight decades will have passed since the 1945 publication of Småtrollen och den stora översvämningen (The Moomins and the Great Flood).

Helsinki Art Museum, Finland www.hamhelsinki.fi

Daði Freyr at Gamla Bíó

Tove Jansson: Bird Blue, 1953. © Tove Jansson Estate. Photo: HAM / Maija Toivanen

Mondays with Bergman. Scene from Det Sjunde Inseglet.

Scan Magazine Issue 173 December 2024

Published 12.2024

ISSN 1757-9589

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Tove Jansson: Fairytale Panorama (left panel), 1949. © Moomin Characters Oy Ltd. Photo: HAM / Maija Toivanen