Top Summer Experiences in Sweden

Läckö Castle. Photo: Per Pixel Petersson, imagebank.sweden.se

From the plains of Skåne to the rolling hills of Dalarna and the deep woods and mountains of further up north, Sweden is full of summer secrets to explore. There are royal castles, culture festivals, art adventures and hidden country gems – all complemented by well-designed, welcoming accommodation options and awardwinning eateries.

Whether you are bringing the kids or going for a long weekend away with the work mates, this guide to the best things to see and do in Sweden this summer is sure to inspire. Perhaps you’re looking to challenge the mind with entertaining culture at a festival in Stockholm, complete with a visit to Fotografiska, home of stunning, world-class photography art? Or how about learning about pollination and biodiversity at one of the two major botanical gardens, in Uppsala or Gothenburg? Alternatively, if you yearn for something different, away from the buzz of the cities, head further north for a pil-

Summer wreaths. Photo: Anna Hållams, imagebank.sweden.se

Summer food. Photo: Anna Hållams, imagebank.sweden.se

grimage in the footsteps of Viking Olav Haraldsson.

Come rain or shine, Sweden is a summer idyll, full to the brim with everything you have ever seen in Astrid Lindgren’s stories and more: open-air time capsules, fresh fish, royal gardens, award-winning galleries and the world’s most famous vodka. Read on to plan your next adventure.

To find out more about destinations, travel and accommodation, please go to: www.visitsweden.com

Photo: Patrik Svedberg, imagebank.sweden.se

Photo: Ulf Fabiansson

Strategically located by Lake Vänern, Läckö Castle is captivating with its fascinating history, Baroque exterior and interior, ancient medieval vaults and treasures, and magical garden. This summer, the castle also offers a great programme of events.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Läckö Slott

Läckö Castle is known as De la Gardie’s magnificent mansion on the shores of Lake Vänern, but it is actually much older. Brynolf Algotsson, the bishop of Skara, laid the foundations for a fortified castle in 1298. Its strategic history probably goes back even longer, however. The castle was confiscated from the church and taken over by the crown in 1527, and in 1615, it was granted to Count Jacob De la Gardie for services to the nation. His son Magnus Gabriel was only 30 when he took over the title and estates and began an extensive extension of the castle. It is essentially Magnus Gabriel’s palace we see today. “Läckö Castle is a hidden gem, also for many Swedes,” says Jan Malmgren, CEO of Stiftelsen Läckö Slott (The Foundation of Läckö Castle). “It’s a fantastic experience to see the castle, which has been left untouched. Lots of people come to see the garden and the surroundings as well, to have a nice meal or stay the night, and to enjoy the exhibitions and events.”

The walled castle garden is an oasis. Gardener Simon Irvine looked after the garden from 1990 and transformed it into what we see today. His focus on sustainability and organic produce has inspired gardens around the world. Last year, Irvine retired and left the garden in the capable hands of gardeners Jenny and Erik, who continue to curate it in the same spirit. Everything is organically cultivated and the garden is a living resource for the castle, with vegetables, spices and edible flowers.

Travelling, ceramics and forests Every day, visitors can take part in guided tours around the castle and there are tailored adventures for kids, with actors and guides to entertain. This year, the castle opens the exhibition Stamped ALP in the small courtyard in collaboration with Rörstrand Museum. Here, visitors can familiarise themselves with classic porcelain and ceramics made in the factory of Rörstrand. On the second floor, the new exhibition Travelling, in collaboration with Nationalmuseum (Sweden’s

Museum of Art and Design), will show how humans have travelled through history, with a number of artefacts from the museum’s collections.

The artistic duo Alexandrov Klum will explore our relationship with nature in Searching for the soul of the forest – A journey into Swedish nature. In rooms with up to six metres in ceiling height, there is plenty of room for world-famous photographer Mattias Alexandrov Klum and artist Iris Alexandrov Klum to display their sensual perspectives. “In Sweden, nature is very close to our hearts,” reflects Malmgren. “During the pandemic, people have taken the opportunity to return to the outdoors. Together with Alexandrov Klum, we can explore our relationship with nature and discover the soul of the forest – and ourselves.”

Also located on the estate is Naturum Vänerskärgården – Victoriahuset, named after Crown Princess Victoria. Here, you can check out the visitor centre, experience an exhibition about the national park and the Vänern archipelago, recharge at restaurant gastrosfär, and spend the night in the hotel.

Opera and live music at the castle The main courtyard has amazing acoustics, and the summer opera at Läckö Castle is well-known and cherished in the region and beyond. The opera production has become a highly regarded part of the castle’s mission: to provide cultural history and cultural experiences in an enriching way. After two years of waiting due to the pandemic, finally the castle will present the opera Tintomara, with 13 shows from 9 to 30 July. Tintomara is an opera in two acts by Lars Johan Werle, after the novel Drottningens juvelsmycke (The Queen’s Jewel) by C.J.L. Almqvist. It tells the story of the androgynous character Tintomara – from the shot at Gustav III, to the silence in Solna forest.

The castle will also host Läckö Sessions, with a series of live performances in collaboration with Krall Entertainment. Artists such as Lisa Nilsson, Måns Zelmerlöw, Arvingarna, Sven Ingvars and Lisa Ekdahl will take to the outdoor stage for intimate performances in front of a small audience of around 500 seated guests. In addition to the opera and Läckö Sessions, popular singer Lars Winnerbäck is set to perform at Läckö Castle on 6 August as part of his summer tour.

“Our programme is maxed out this summer, as you can see,” smiles Malmgren. “Läckö Castle is a great meeting place and a beautiful destination, and lots of people come here to meet friends, have lunch or enjoy a fika, listen to their favourite musicians, and learn more about our cultural heritage.”

Left: Box with miniature of balloon ascent in Paris, 1783-1784, from the new exhibition Travelling in collaboration with Nationalmuseum. Right: From the exhibition Searching for the soul of the forest – A journey into Swedish nature, by Alexandrov Klum.

Web: www.lackoslott.se Facebook: stiftelsenlackoslott Instagram: @lacko_castle_official

Djurberg & Berg, In Dreams, 2016. Photo: Mattias Givell

On the beautiful Wanås estate, site-specific contemporary sculptures and installations are displayed among old beech and oak trees. The leading international sculpture park is a centre for art and knowledge, aiming to be accessible to everyone.

By Malin Norman

Wanås Konst is one of the foremost destinations in the region of Skåne. The international sculpture park is a centre for art and knowledge, where the medieval castle and the surrounding park and forest with old beech and oak trees provide a stunning backdrop.

In this magical setting, visitors can experience around 75 site-specific artworks by artists such as Yoko Ono, Rana Begum and Nathalie Djurberg & Hans Berg. In addition to the permanent collection, comprehensive temporary exhibitions and site-specific projects are displayed both outdoors and indoors in farm buildings from the 18th century that now house art. Wanås Konst also offers accompanying programmes including tours, workshops and artist talks for a broad audience.

“The first time I came to Wanås in 2000, I had a bit of a ‘wow’ moment,” admits Mattias Givell, co-director of Wanås Konst. “Instead of a standard gallery with all white rooms, art is displayed in relation to the surrounding greenery, in an openair environment with sun, rain and wind, and in a historical context. It’s a completely different setting, which opens up for a lot of opportunities and interpretations.”

Wanås Konst and visions for the future The art activities at Wanås were initiated in 1987 by founder Marika Wachtmeister. Since 1995, Wanås Konst has been run by the non-profit Wanås Art Foundation, and Mattias Givell became director in 2011, together with Elisabeth Millqvist. Over 300 artists have participated in exhibitions and projects over the years.

The sculpture park is open all year round, and every year around 80,000 visitors come to experience the sculptures

and installations. “Our goal is contemporary art and culture for all. Everyone, regardless of background and age, should be able to access and experience art,” says Givell.

Every year, around 10,000 children take part in educational activities such as tours and workshops at Wanås. “It’s important to connect art to what is happening in the world. Our aim is to be a hub for artists and progressive learning, and to connect the two. Here, you’ll encounter different art expressions, and we embrace artists that invite participation and co-creation.”

Peter Linde Busk and Numen/For Use From May to November this year, Wanås Konst will present two exciting new projects with artists who are driving change and pushing material development from a sustainability perspective.

Contemporary Danish artist Peter Linde Busk is known for his paintings, but also other techniques and materials such as ceramics. Recycling is part of his approach, and at Wanås Konst, he will display his first outdoor artwork, a sculpture made with a method he developed himself – a giant-sized pumpkin that visitors can walk into.

Industrial design collective Numen/ For Use is also looking for sustainable alternatives in their works. The group will create an intricate construction and cocoon-like shapes made out of biodegradable tape that fills up and spreads out from the 50-metre-long and 14-metre-tall building. Also here, visitors are invited to view or physically explore the installation, take a closer look and discover cavities in the structure.

Numen/For Use, Tape Paris, Palais de Tokyo.

Jeppe Hein, Modified Social Bench #21, 2014. Photo: Mattias Givell

Wanås is located in north-eastern Skåne, approximately 1.5 hours from Malmö and two hours from Kastrup. On site, visitors will find Wanås Konst with a design shop, a local food deli and a lunch café. If you want to stay longer, you can book dinner and stay overnight at Wanås Restaurant Hotel.

Wanås Konst, with its sculpture park and indoor exhibitions, shop, deli and lunch café, is open 10am to 5pm daily from May to September.

Web: www.wanaskonst.se Facebook: Wanås-Konst Instagram: @wanaskonst

Peter Linde Busk, The Generous Gambler.

Yoko Ono, Wish Trees, 2011. Photo: Mattias Givell

Photo: Erik G. Svensson Photo: © Andreas Wannerstedt, Sliding Zeus XL Dolly Parton, 1985 unique Polaroid print © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. Licensed by Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

Fotografiska is a vibrant meeting place for photography, culinary experiences, inspiration and events. Here, you can see photography and visual art from all over the world, from the most well-known photographers to the new generation of image creators.

By Malin Norman

“Fotografiska is not your ordinary museum,” says Elin Frendberg, executive director at Fotografiska. “We want to use it as a platform to inspire a more conscious world. From art and photography to the food we serve, it’s been in our DNA since the start.”

Fotografiska’s restaurant is a destination in its own right, with a philosophy based on creating taste sensations and raising awareness around sustainability. It serves well-prepared, tasty, seasonal food, with the best views of Stockholm. In 2021, the plant-based kitchen was awarded a Green Star by the Michelin Guide and named Sweden’s best and most sustainable restaurant by 360° Eat Guide.

In the basement, Fotografiska hosts a hydroponic system for growing salad leaves, herbs and spices. “Our chefs are magicians who play with ingredients and flavours,” smiles Frendberg. “The menus are like tales, telling the story of Swedish produce, and give a glimpse of the future. How can we get a celeriac to taste of pineapple with the help of sea buckthorn? Or a parsnip that tastes of banana ice cream? It’s fascinating!”

Andy Warhol and NFT art Currently showing is Andy Warhol: Photo Factory, with more than a hundred photographs from the period 1960–1987. Many are rare and offer an insight into how Andy Warhol used his camera as a visual diary. “The photographs represent his life in New York, with shots of celebrities, lovers and friends,” says Frendberg. “And even though many years have passed since he took the photos, they feel contemporary and mirror the Instagram era we live in today.”

This spring, a new cutting-edge exhibition opens: Somewhere Ethereal. “We’re excited to be the first Swedish museum with a physical NFT exhibition with digital artwork from six of the world’s most famous artists.” Frendberg sums up: “Fotografiska is in constant change and we show a number of different exhibitions at the same time, as it adds to the dynamics, from vintage photography to Andy Warhol to small up-and-coming artists – all in a wonderful mish-mash.”

Photo: Elina Malm

Fotografiska is open daily from 10am to 11pm. Andy Warhol: PhotoFactory – 25 March to 21 August Somewhere Ethereal – 29 April to 21 August

Web: www.fotografiska.com Facebook: fotografiskasto Instagram: @fotografiska.stockholm @fotografiska.food

Photo: Lotta Saetre

The Botanical Garden is one of the most popular destinations in Uppsala, with an impressive Baroque Garden, an old orangery and even a rainforest.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Jesper Kårehed

Uppsala is known for its charming atmosphere, green parks and top-ranking university, where in the 18th century Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus famously formalised binomial nomenclature, the modern system of naming organisms. His legacy lives on worldwide, but nowhere preserves it as well as Uppsala.

The Botanical Garden is one of Uppsala’s most popular destinations. Here you can enjoy the grandiose Baroque Garden, visit the 200-year-old orangery with its majestic halls, or find inspiration for home growing among rockery plants, vegetables, summer flowers and plants in the systemic quarters. And the Tropical Greenhouse is home to Uppsala’s only rainforest.

Visitors come to learn, find inspiration and enjoy the richness of the plant kingdom. During the summer, the Botanical Garden hosts concerts, art exhibitions and other events, and people can try yoga, qigong and boule. Café Victoria, meanwhile, is an oasis with lunch and fika served in the shade of parasols and venerable trees.

Japanese sculptural art This summer, the garden hosts the exhibition Flying Seeds, a collaboration with six artists from Hokkaido in Japan. “The artists are renowned for their work in land art and sculpture, and some are educated in Ikebana,” says Lotta Saetre, communications officer, who explains that the pieces of art are created on site. “The artists are experienced in working in public spaces, and we can expect to see a mix of sculptural art around the garden and amongst the trees.”

The name Flying Seeds was chosen by the artists because seeds represent the next generation, the future. The name also symbolises the seeds that Carl Peter Thunberg collected in Japan almost 250 years ago and brought back to the Botanical Garden. These seeds sprouted a curiosity about Japan and contributed to understanding and exchange between Sweden and Japan.

There is plenty more to see during a visit in Uppsala, including the Linnaeus Garden, Sweden’s oldest botanical garden, and Linnaeus’ Hammarby, the country estate of the Linnaeus family.

The exhibition FlyingSeedsin the Botanical Garden is open from 25 May to 11 September. Participating artists are Nobumichi Achi, Hiroshi Kakizaki, Masako Suenaga, Yoko Tamura, Naoko Yako and Ikuo Watanabe.

Web: botan.uu.se Facebook: uppsalalinneanska Instagram: @uppsalalinneanska

Comfortably nestled by the Hjälmaren lake, the picture-perfect castle of Stora Sundby is a mesmerising wonder steeped in history. Reached by a two-hour drive from Stockholm, this must-visit destination is one to tick off your list this summer.

The Swedish archipelago is well known for its serene beauty, picturesque villages, gorgeous sea views and close-knit communities. Styrsö is the popular island closely connected to Gothenburg city centre, and Styrsö Skäret is the hotel and restaurant where guests can stay in idyllic comfort and try local delicacies all year round.

Stora Sundby has a rich history going back centuries; however, the castle in its current form dates back to the start of the 19th century. According to the story books, it was the wife of count De Geer who asked her husband to build her a romantic castle like those in the Ivanhoe books. Not one to say no, count De Geer complied, and the project was finished in 1848.

“It really is a building wrapped in romance,” says Mauritz Klingspor, who now owns and lives at Stora Sundby. Dubbed ‘the calendar castle’, it’s got four main towers to represent the year’s seasons, 12 smaller towers for the months, 52 rooms for the weeks, and 365 windows for the days of the year.

Pretty, yes – but it’s not all about looks. The castle is surrounded by a lush garden for visitors to enjoy. “We also have a lovely café serving coffee and cake, plus serene trails for walking, with deer and lots of other wild animals around,” says Klingspor. The castle itself can be explored via pre-purchased tickets on set days, including 22 May and 6 June.

“There’s something special about Stora Sundby, and we can’t wait to share the serenity and magic of it all with visitors this summer,” concludes Klingspor.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Stora Sundby

Web: www.storasundby.com Facebook: storasundbyslott

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Styrsö Skäret

Styrsö Skäret is experiencing a revival with new management and a busy summer season approaching. The hotel and restaurant is the perfect landing spot for visitors looking for serene recharging hand in hand with idyllic sea views and walking paths.

“Styrsö is a popular island to visit thanks to its close connection to Gothenburg. The boat takes 30 minutes from the city centre, offering a fantastic form of relaxation for commuters as well as visitors, a gentle transition into the tranquil spirit of the archipelago, which is so different from anywhere else,” says Lizette Fhager, booking manager at Styrsö Skäret. The island only allows trade cars to drive, and locals use golf cars as their main mode of transport, adding another level of tranquillity to the island.

Styrsö Skäret is a popular hotel for tourists, wedding parties and conferences, where the bar and restaurant provides the perfect space to unwind or enjoy a party tailored to perfection. Fhager concludes: “We’re a community that looks after each other as well as our visitors, and we can arrange unique experiences by collaborating with local skills. Nature, the close connection to the sea, and the easy reach to Gothenburg make it the perfect spot for people looking for a place to recharge, relax and enjoy life in a different way – the west coast archipelago way.”

Web: www.styrsoskaret.com

Verket in the olden days. Photo: Thorvald Gehrman

Anna Linnea Liljeholm for Avesta Art 2020. Verket.

Verket is an old iron mill established during the 19th century, and ever since the beginning, it has been housed in an impressive industrial environment. The purpose of its labyrinth-like, monumental interior has steadily moved from the sooty, mechanical production of the past to a space for enlightenment, dedicated to arts, science and exploration.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Therese Asplund

Verket is situated in Avesta, in the county of Dalarna, with a strong industrial lineage dating back hundreds of years thanks to its iron and copper-rich soil. Verket stands proudly despite its old age, and original industrial features, brickwork, windows and chimneys have all been preserved.

Today, the mill is a hub for learning and culture. Charlotte Wells, manager and curator, explains: “The iron mill has become a passage between our industrial past and contemporary cultural expressions. School classes from around the region regularly visit to participate in creative workshops and to learn about art, maths and science, and about the process of iron from the beginning to finished product. We are also an exhibition space for art and culture, and we’re very excited to present this year’s edition of our annual art event: Avesta Art.”

The group exhibition, titled Seasons, is an epic love letter to the four seasons, so clearly defined in the northern regions, examining their profound significance for us as humans and serving as a subtle reminder of what could be lost as our climate is changing. Seven installations by different artists will represent the seasonal changes: installations, photography, painting, sculpture, video and immersive art will build this spectacular display of contemporary art in an equally spectacular setting.

The largest exhibition hall will host an immersive whirlwind of an exhibition featuring Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons and interpretive visuals by Italian Emotional Experiences. Johanna Hästö, Joel Danielsson, Erica Giacomazzi, Lena Granefelt, Olle Norås and Anna Ling are the other participating artists.

“Art is an incredible thing; it entertains, surprises and provokes, but most of all it makes us feel, with a unique ability to connect thoughts and feelings. This exhibition is created to make us appreciate what we have and realise the gravity of what could be lost: the incredible beauty of our four seasons. We wish to reach beyond science, through a beautiful and thought-provoking experience, and that’s why we’re so excited to welcome visitors to this year’s Avesta Art exhibition at Verket,” finishes Wells.

Avesta Art 2022 is open from 14 May until 18 September 2022.

Web: www.verket.se Instagram: @avestaart Visit Dalarna: www.visitdalarna.se

Sculpture by Lee Jaehyo.

Close to nature but in the heart of the city, Gothenburg Botanical Garden is a place of true beauty. Founded in 1923, the garden has presented botany and biodiversity to the public ever since, with next year set for the celebration of a century – literally.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Gothenburg Botanical Garden

Unlike other gardens, botanical gardens have documented collections of living plants for research, preservation and educational purposes. And as the natural habitats for plants change, botanical gardens are becoming more and more important to help protect endangered species. “Without these gardens, many plants would vanish, and we simply can’t let that happen,” says Agneta Green, head of the garden’s marketing and communication.

Spread out across 430 acres, Gothenburg Botanical Garden boasts 16,000 plant species and hybrids – one of the largest collections of its kind in Europe –alongside one of the world’s greatest collections of bulbs and tubers. Add a spectacular waterfall, a herb garden, a Japanese valley and a multifaceted programme of events and exhibitions, and you will see why botany and horticulture enthusiasts are impressed. “We have over 650,000 visitors to the garden per year, and they come here to enjoy plants from all corners of the Earth in beautifully composed sections,” says Green. However, it’s not all about pretty views and serene surroundings. Over the years, the garden has grown into an important infrastructure for science and research. Indeed, Gothenburg Botanical Garden is today an important and much-loved destination for the region’s children to learn about nature, as well as the importance of respecting it.

The next step for this grand garden is to build new greenhouses where future generations can learn and, hopefully, be fascinated by the biodiversity of the world. “Because of these works, things might look a bit messy as you first enter the garden, but once you get through, it’s just as serene as you’d have imagined,” explains Green. Another highlight is the ongoing collaboration with Konstepidemin – a centre for Gothenburg artists – offering a range of exhibitions in the garden and garden gallery all the way through to 2023. There are plenty more activities and happenings too, especially on 22 May this year, which will see the celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity.

With so much botanical brilliance on offer, Gothenburg Botanical Garden is a great summer destination for adults and kids alike, with plenty to be enjoyed by all.

Web: www.botaniska.se Facebook: goteborgs.botaniska. tradgard

Piece by Susanna Jablonski and Cara Tolmie: Listening Panels(HardMeasures).Photo: Valdemar Asp

As a successful portrait sculptor and artist commissioned for numerous public works throughout the first half of the 1900s, Carl Eldh (1873–1954) was part of shaping the image of the historic, as well as the emergent, new Sweden. Many of his universal renderings of the human experience stemmed from his studio in Stockholm, a tarred wooden building located in a serene spot close to the city centre and entryway into an entirely different world. The studio has since been transformed into a museum open for all, and summer season 2022 will signal a new start with exciting events and exhibitions awaiting around the corner.

By Nina Bressler

Carl Eldh, a brief history: Carl Eldh is the artist that grew up in Söderskogen, a small mining community in northern Uppland, Sweden. Born in 1873, his background was humble, and to save up enough money to train as a sculptor, “Eldh’s journey, from a working class background into the fine art salons in France, is truly fascinating. Success wasn’t handed to him; he earned it through stamina and talent. His early flair for artistry and his deep fascination with the human experience elevated him into the top artistic spheres, on both the Swedish and an international stage,” says Joanna Nordin, newly appointed director for Carl Eldhs Ateljémuseum.

A magical spot The studio is located in Stockholm, not far from the city centre but tucked away peacefully close to Brunnsviken in Bellevue, part of The Royal National City

he worked as an ornament moulder for several years in his hometown.

Moderssorg was the sculpture that brought him recognition, earning him a gold medal at the Paris Salon in 1902.

Joanna Nordin. Photo: Patricia Reyes

Park. The studio and building has not changed much since its establishment during the late 1910s; the same majestic, wooden facade with artistic details, unmistakably Eldh, towers up in the midst of the intimate studio garden, an earthly Eden for art and garden lovers alike.

The interior is as original as the exterior. Original plaster models fill the two studios, just as Eldh left them, and close to 500 works are on public display. Walk around, get up close and experience the spirit of his art through vivacious renderings of human nature, captured eternally in sculptures and sketches.

The garden offers a peaceful break from the outer world, and the self-service café is the perfect spot for a coffee and contemplation. “Carl Eldh’s art speaks the language of the soul. He portrayed famous personalities as well as common people, caught in everyday business. Mother to child, lover to lover, old and young; his sculptures are about the feelings that we have as human beings and the eternal values that hold us together. It’s subjective and it’s universal. His studio embodies his work and captures his spirit to this day,” Nordin says.

Creating poignant programmes connecting now and then 2022 has some exciting things in store: the summer exhibition, Släpljus, explores questions of historiography, personal or collective memory, and our relation to history and time. ‘Släpljus’ –a type of trailing or dragging light – is the word used to describe the low light setting used by historical conservators in examining ancient artefacts, and the exhibition by the same name will be an exploration of how the works by Eldh can be interpreted from new and thought-provoking perspectives. How do you approach the historical significance of a place, of a work of art, and how do you relate it to our current time? Six artists – Chiara Bugatti, Susanna Jablonski, Cia Kanthi, Anna Ting Möller, Cara Tolmie and Danae Valenza – have been invited to interpret the individual and collective memory formation and to put their light on history in unique ways through site-specific installations.

A new digital identity is also on its way: a new website launches in May, hosting parts of Eldh’s image archive, which will be a treasure for admirers across the globe. Walking tours will continue to be a prominent feature of the activities, where visitors are welcomed on a stroll through the most historically important and beautiful places around Stockholm.

Stadshusparken, the Nordic Museum, Djurgården and Tegnérlunden are some locations where Eldhs sculptures have had a dramatic impact. “Eldh was quite unique in the way he decided to keep large parts of his gypsum casts – originals for artworks often meant for other materials and placements not seldom in the public realm. What is left in the studio are forms of phantoms of these works, stretching out toward other places and times – a collection that, in near infinity, allows itself to be unfolded and explored

Breath,2019, by Danae Valenza. Photo: Valdemar Asp

from different perspectives. Our aim today, by inviting contemporary artists and practitioners, is to explore how a cultural heritage site can offer new and dynamic perspectives, shedding new light on the histories embedded in the historic materials. We’re inviting our audiences to explore this magical spot in new and exciting ways,” Nordin concludes.

Web: www.eldhsatelje.se Instagram: @carleldhsateljemuseum

Exterior from the south. Photo: Urban Jörén

Sculptures as Carl Eldh left them. Photo: Urban Jörén

Photo: Magnus Rietz Photo: Almerängfoto

Experience Stockholm, its canals and stunning archipelago with Stromma’s tours, a fabulous way of getting to know the Swedish capital.

By Malin Norman

Whether you are a local or visiting from elsewhere, Stromma offers a wide range of boat and bus tours for every taste, occasion and weather. Perfect for first-time visitors is a ride with the Hop On – Hop Off buses that stop by, for example, the Old Town and the City Hall. This gives a useful overview and you learn how to find your way around the city.

“Stockholm is such a beautiful city, and it’s fantastic seen from the water,” says Cecilia Sandberg, marketing director at Stromma. “Sightseeing by boat gives a new perspective on the city, its many famous sights and the surrounding nature.”

For those looking for a cruise with a delicious meal, there are options for all flavours. The archipelago shrimp cruise is a must for seafood lovers, and the cruise with buffet and live music is a treat, with grand views of the archipelago.

Gustavsberg is well worth a visit too, recommends Sandberg. “The boat makes a stop at Hålludden, where the art museum Artipelag is located. If you’re interested in ceramics and design, check out the Gustavsbergs Porcelain Museum. Or go for a stroll around the harbour and stop at one of the many restaurants and cafés.”

Birka, Sigtuna and Skokloster One of the most popular tours is that of Birka, the Viking City on Lake Mälaren. “The guided tour gives a background to Birka, and afterwards you’ll be all set to explore on your own,” explains Sandberg. “During summer, there are theme weeks including role play; it’s a fantastic experience to see the dressed-up participants and their commitment to the Viking era.”

Another gem is Sigtuna, with its picturesque, old wooden houses dating back to the 18th century, while the Baroque Skokloster Castle is one of Europe’s most breathtaking settings. You can also explore more of the archipelago with Cinderellabåtarna. In summer, lots of people take the boat to one of the islands for a picnic on the cliffs or a swim in the sea.

Stromma offers similar guided tours also in Gothenburg and Malmö. “In Gothenburg, you can visit the island of Vinga, with its famous lighthouse,” says Sandberg. “And let’s not forget the sightseeing tour with the classic Paddan boats. Expect the typical tongue-in-cheek humour from Gothenburg.”

Birka. Photo: Claes Helander

Birka. Photo: Claes Helander

Web: www.stromma.com

Rhododendron. Photo: Mattias Berglund Illustration by Stina Öberg of the skala 1:1 exhibition.

Known for its royal heritage, amazing garden, pulsating concerts and mesmerising rhododendron ravine, Sofiero has become a favourite summer destination for many. In fact, thousands of people visit the award-winning site every year to explore the grounds and its history – one that started when King Oscar II and his wife, Sofia, acquired the castle as their summer home in 1866.

By Hanna Andersson

However, Sofiero’s royal heritage doesn’t stop there. Crown Princess Margareta, King Carl XVI Gustaf’s grandmother, built the garden that we can all visit today. Her creativity and passion for gardening, art and culture are what has led Sofiero into the 21st century, creating a dynamic and exciting summer destination, which gives the guests something new to explore every year.

A unique art exhibition This year, Sofiero is hosting its first outdoor exhibition, called skala 1:1, which consists of seven installations created by seven of the most interesting architecture firms in Sweden.

“The architects only got a short brief: create something in symbiosis with Sofiero and its grounds,” explains Jeanette Gostomski, curator, creative consultant and project manager at Sofiero, who initiated this unique outdoor architectural art exhibition.

“This has given us seven very different and unique installations, which complement the garden in the most extraordinary way,” she adds. The art installations are inspired by everything from a philosophical thought to a material or shape, and will make sure to make the guests stop, reflect and admire the pieces.

A summer full of happenings The exhibition opens on 25 May, featuring architecture firms Karlsson/ Lauri, Gunilla Svensson with Pernilla Norrman, EldingOscarson, Krupinski/ Krupinska, Christian Wilke, Horisont and White Arkitekter.

Moreover, Sofiero will host an exclusive exhibition about the cherished architect Gert Wingårdh, telling the story about his career, but also the story of the person behind the drawing board. He was a dreamer and a perfectionist and has inspired many to follow their passion. The exhibition will feature five of his projects, which in one way or another led him to where he is today.

This summer, Sofiero is also opening a brand-new adventure playground, where children will be able to enjoy new slides, swings and a sandpit, but also a handmade obstacle course that will slither through the trees above the ground, bringing them even closer to the art, the culture and the gardens.

Castle. Photo: Sophie Håkansson

Web: sofiero.se Instagram: @sofieroslott

Cocoon Meetings is the ultimate getaway destination, perfect for couples who want to rewind and recharge, or for bigger groups and companies to gather, get inspired and regroup. It is dedicated to meetings, conferences and creating an exclusive environment where the guests can thrive.

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Cocoon Meetings

Located outside the small town of Degeberga in south-east Sweden, Cocoon Meetings was originally bought by creative director Bodil Solheim Göthner and her husband to expand their tree-farming business. They quickly discovered that the farm had a lot of hidden gems, excellent views, quiet promenades and wonderful surroundings.

“One day, after we started renovating the farm, a friend of mine said, ‘It’s just wonderful here; it makes you want to cuddle up in a cocoon’. And that’s when I developed this concept: a B&B where guests can come to relax, recharge, be inspired, and then fly away towards new adventures, just like a butterfly,” Solheim Göthner smiles.

A space created for meetings Cocoon Meetings Bed and Breakfast provides two ‘cocoons’ in which businesses can host their meetings. Solheim Göthner and her staff will also help the guests create a schedule for the visit, and make sure that the visitors get the service and surroundings they need to reach their goal.

“We want to make sure that we offer the ultimate setting for relaxation and creativity. Therefore, we also offer companies private access to the whole venue. This gives them the time they need to wind down, breathe and be creative, without anyone else potentially disturbing them,” explains Solheim Göthner.

Escape into nature Escapism is a big part of the Cocoon Meeting experience. The guests get a chance to breathe, practise mindfulness and enjoy the oasis surrounding the farm. This promotes creativity and will make the guests feel energised.

“Sometimes our guests ask, ‘So what activities are available in the area?’, and I try to make sure they don’t book too much in. We promote just taking a deep breath and living in the moment. Take a walk, have a lie-in, or visit our beautiful conservatory,” says Solheim Göthner.

“It’s the perfect place to escape to if you want to get away from the crowds,” she adds. “Solitude, calm and nature are our keywords, and the three things we will always offer.”

Web: cocoonmeetings.com Facebook: Cocoonmeetings Instagram: @cocoonmeetings_sweden

Are you curious about the birth of one of the world’s most iconic liquor brands? At Absolut Home in Åhus, you can experience the story of Absolut Vodka and learn how to shake up a real Cosmopolitan, as well as who the bearded guy on the bottle really is.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Absolut

“Absolut Home is the heart and soul of Absolut,” says Frida Trieb, sales and marketing manager at Absolut Home. “It’s the physical representation and embodies the story of the brand, with lectures, guided tours and activities. But it’s also a homely place to just hang out with family and friends, or to meet new people.”

During the Absolut Home Tour, visitors walk through the history of Absolut Vodka. You will learn all about the founding father Lars Olsson Smith, called ‘the King of Vodka’, and hear about his creativity and focus on social responsibility – still a guiding star for The Absolut Company. At the end of the tour, you will shake up a classic Cosmopolitan, or a non-alcoholic Cosmopolitan.

Absolut Home also offers cocktail classes, which reveal some of the best-kept secrets in the craft of cocktail-making. After an introduction to the art of mixing drinks, you get useful tips and tricks for mixing your own drink at home.

Fraction of Fashion at Absolut Home Absolut Vodka’s acclaimed exhibition Fashion Cocktail recently showed at Spritmuseum (the Museum of Spirits) in Stockholm, with clothing, accessories and photographs from some of the world’s foremost fashion designers and photographers. This spring, Absolut Home will show selected parts in the miniexhibition Fraction of Fashion, with for instance Manolo Blahnik boots, a Helmut Lang dress, and Helmut Newton’s photos with a connection to Åhus.

There is plenty more happening, such as an Easter brunch, a Midsummer brunch and festivities, and activities such as After Beach. Absolut Home is great for conferences and meetings too. “It’s a different setting and easily combined with your own activities,” says Trieb. You can start the day with a mocktail, do a guided tour later in the day, and enjoy a delicious dinner based on what’s in season. “And Åhus is an amazing summer destination with long, white beaches, a picturesque town square, and a beautiful port with lots of restaurants.”

FractionofFashion.

Absolut Home: Vallgatan 5, Åhus Phone: +46 44 590 59 59 Email: info@absoluthome.com

Web: www.absoluthome.com Facebook: absoluthomeahus Instagram: @absoluthome

Södertälje.

The immensely popular German film series Inga Lindström, watched by millions, is set in Östergötland and Sörmland in Sweden. Now you can feel like a star in the films too, and experience the wonderful atmosphere for real.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Peter Holgersson

Inga Lindström is a German TV series of independent films, shot in parts of Östergötland and Sörmland along Sweden’s idyllic Baltic coast every summer since 2003. There are over 90 films so far, and new instalments are recorded every year. The films are romantic and the plot revolves around a man and a woman who run into obstacles along the way, but finally get each other and all ends well.

“The Inga Lindström films are about love and relationships, and the sometimes bumpy road to get there,” says Johanna Åkerman, destination developer. “Millions of viewers tune in to watch how the love story unravels, but also to devour the Swedish landscape and culture.” Romantic lakes, picturesque manor houses, cosy cafés and of course the beautiful archipelago make the films a hit among viewers. To guide visitors in the footsteps of Inga Lindström, the municipalities of Linköping, Söderköping, Norrköping, Nyköping, Oxelösund, Trosa and Södertälje have created a new website about the series and its film locations. So now you too can see the picturesque scenery from the films, enjoy cycling along Göta Canal, walk over suspension bridges to islands in the archipelago, and visit the many castles.

Fairytale mansions and castles There are countless castles and mansions to discover in the region between Södertälje and Linköping, and many have been film locations in the popular films: from

Nyköping.

small, romantic Baroque castles to large, stately royal palaces and mansions with breathtaking views of the sea, each one with its own charm.

Nynäs manor house and nature reserve is a must-see. The nature reserve is the largest in the Södermanland province, with over 8,000 acres of Swedish nature, culture and history to discover. The manor house was built by the influential Gyllenstierna family in the late 17th century and is considered to be one of the best-preserved historical houses open to the public in Sweden. Not to miss is the impressive orangery with restaurant Nynäs and a gardening shop, which has gained a reputation among gardening enthusiasts for its collection of various plants.

Another gem is Tullgarn, near Trosa in Södermanland, one of Sweden’s most popular royal destinations. Tullgarn Palace was the summer palace of King Gustaf V and Queen Victoria and nowadays offers visitors a solace for body and mind. The surrounding park has avenues of lime trees, and makes a delightful spot for a picnic. And the fairytale manor house Mauritzberg should be on the list, too: an oasis for those who want to enjoy the good things in life, with a golf course, several restaurants, a fabulous hotel and even a chapel on the grounds.

Beautiful archipelago and Göta Canal The real star of the series is the stunning Swedish landscape though, and it is loved by the German TV audience. A tip is to take one of the Skärgårdslinjen boats for a day trip in Östergötland’s archipelago, which consists of three areas: Arkösund, Sankt Anna and Gryt. “The archipelago is great for a day out and activities such as swimming, hiking and cycling,” says Viveca Valgren, destination developer. She also recommends Stendörren nature reserve, a popular destination located in the middle of the picturesque archipelago between Nyköping and Trosa. “Stendörren is perfect for exploring on foot. It’s easy to reach from the mainland and you can explore the nearest archipelago islands via several suspension bridges.”

One of the Inga Lindström films is set along Göta Kanal, a 190-kilometre-long canal constructed in the early 19th century. Many visitors take the opportunity to explore Göta Canal by bike. The flight of locks in Berg is impressive, one of the largest construction projects ever in Sweden, and at Kanalmagasinet you can get a well-deserved energy boost after the bike ride. This is where Göta Canal starts, or ends, depending on which way you are going.

For information about Inga Lindström in German, visit the dedicated website ingalindstrom.com.

Söderköping.

Linköping.

Web: www.ingalindstrom.com Facebook: IngaLindstrom

Trosa. Photo: Paola Noordh

Oxelösund. Norrköping.

The year of passion at Norrviken. Photo: Lena Evertsson Blossoming haven on the west coast.

Norrviken is the garden located in what is often referred to as the Swedish Riviera –the southern tip of the west coast. The garden is a veritable feast for all senses, where flourishing nature goes hand in hand with cafés and a top-class restaurant serving seasonal and local delicacies. This year’s theme is Passion, and an ample summer season awaits with activities for all ages.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Norrviken

“There’s a peculiar power attached to this place, undefinable but always present, that makes you stick around for a long time. We wanted to reinstate passion after two years of limitations, and this year will be a celebration of life, lived to the fullest,” says Frida Paulsson, marketing manager at Norrviken.

A packed schedule is on the table; concerts, open-air art exhibitions, fairs, children’s activities and guided walks will bring life to the summer season. Tulpanmani brings focus to the beloved tulips in an exhibition curated by Eva Canebro. Passione – un omaggio alla vita e al fiore is another main event, where Flora, the goddess of life and flora, is celebrated through an immersive installation where blossoming flowers and music are married into a delightful waltz for all senses. BotaniCar is the event where car devotees will merge with innovation, technology, nature and spectacular design, to imagine a greener future together.

Guided walks will take visitors through historical marvels of the garden and its buildings, and children are welcomed at Hasse’s Happy Garden, where child-friendly activities will take place in colourful settings. The exhibition Passionate paintings will showcase art as rarely seen elsewhere; in open air, surrounded by luscious floral settings.

Abundant alternatives are provided for the foodies: Orangeriet is the restaurant where regional food is served to perfection, and Salamander café is the perfect spot for a Swedish fika. Why not bring it outside and enjoy it in the Cherry Garden? “The lush, carefully tended garden is rich in history and has provided a blossoming sanctuary for more than 100 years, brought forward by passion. We want to bring out the same lust for life that this garden embodies, to invite people into this haven of earthly goodness. Our schedule is carefully curated around the theme and we believe that the activities will help bring the surroundings into their rightful state. Passionately enjoyable!” concludes Paulsson.

Blossoming haven at Norrviken.

Web: www.norrvikenbastad.se Facebook: Norrviken Instagram: @norrviken_bastad

In the beautiful surroundings of Dalsland, close to the big lake Vänern, you’ll find Baldersnäs Manor. By the old entrance to the area, an inscription in Latin from the 1700s has been found, and it reads: “Guest friendly, the peninsula beautifully smiles at you, inviting you to forget your sorrows” – a description that still holds its promise. Let your shoulders drop in the English park, breathe in the fresh air on your walk around the lake, let your gaze rest on the calming scenery and embrace taking time for reflection, nature and great food.

Stockholm Culture Festival has become an integral part of summer in Stockholm. With the city centre as its setting and the Royal Palace as its backdrop, the festival invites people from near and far to an open and diverse event. The festival intends to introduce you to new, modern and sometimes unexpected cultural experiences.

By Alejandra Cerda Ojensa | Photo: Jonas Ingman

The main house of Baldersnäs Manor was built in 1912 by the engineer Rudolf Liljequist, one of two people writing the foundations for the famous Nobel Prizes. Used as a private home until 1975, it is now open for guests to enjoy the historical atmosphere during a luxurious stay. Only 15 minutes from Skärbo nature reserve, you can spend the day wandering the Swedish woods before coming back for a five- or seven-course dinner in the restaurant, led by head chef Emil Öjentorp. The food is traditional Swedish cuisine with a hint of playfulness and a modern twist. Keep your expectations high – you won’t be disappointed.

Baldersnäs Manor and its serviceminded crew have great experience of hosting wedding parties of up to 80 guests, but also intimate stays for calming weekend getaways. During the past couple of years they’ve opened up for activities such as running groups and yoga. And those interested in traditional Swedish handicrafts will enjoy a visit to Steneby hemslöjd (‘hemslöjd’ meaning ‘handicraft’) on the site.

If you’re not already familiar with the Swedish word ‘livsnjutare’, now might be the time you come to understand it. A ‘livsnjutare’ is someone who enjoys the pleasures of life – a bon vivant of sorts – and that’s very much something you can do during a stay at Baldersnäs Manor.

Web: www.baldersnas.eu Instagram: @baldersnas

The City of Stockholm welcomes back all culture enthusiasts By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Stockholms Kulturfestival

“We are finally able to welcome everyone back to the festival after a two-year interruption due to the pandemic. The programme is being put together as we speak and there will absolutely be something for everyone,” says Linnéa Monteiro de Macedo, deputy director at the Event Department, City of Stockholm.

The five-day annual festival, which will be held 17-21 August, is free for all and organised by the City of Stockholm. There are six festival areas, all dedicated to a different genre or focus, where you can either enjoy being a part of the audience or participate yourself. There is a family area, several music areas with both international and Swedish artists, and an expanded food and drink area.

“The festival will once again gather people from all around Stockholm, the rest of Sweden and the world to experience the festival’s wide range of musical acts, activities and performances. People will come together, interact with new friends, and create memories. That’s what the festival is all about,” says Monteiro de Macedo.

Stop by Stockholm Culture Festival in August, whether you know what you want to get out of the experience or you are looking to encounter something new.

Web: kulturfestivalen.stockholm.se Instagram: @kulturfestivalsthlm

By Marie Westerman Roberts | Photos: Örebro kommun/Wadköping

You know those sayings that go something like ‘everything was better in the past’? Well, if you are in Sweden and want to find out if this is true, the Wadköping museum village in Örebro is a good place to start.

Try out different things the way they were done in the past.

When you get there, you’ll find a vibrant village-style open-air museum, where the past meets the present. You’ll see buildings and entire courtyards that have been moved here from central Örebro. The town street runs through the middle of Wadköping, with buildings on each side. On one side, you can see low, red houses from the 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries. On the other side, you can see what Örebro looked like after the city fire of 1854. The name ‘Wadköping’ is a fictional name, and it comes from the author Hjalmar Bergman’s famous novel, The Markurells in Wadköping.

Wadköping is open all year round and offers activities for the whole family. In addition to period architecture, you’ll find museums, exhibitions and lots of activities for children. There are plenty of different little shops to visit, and you can buy freshly baked bread at the bakery, have lunch at the restaurant, watch the silversmith work in the workshop, or just enjoy a day walking around in this lovely environment. Either way, you will experience the past way of living, mixed with shops, culture and food.

The fictional city was awarded a Traveller’s Choice by TripAdvisor in 2021, and this summer, there will be lots of fun activities for families and children. There’ll be art exhibitions, theatre, concerts and markets, and if you are in the area in August, don’t miss the popular food market.

Food market in Wadköping. Photo: Advant Web: www.orebro.se/wadkoping Facebook: wadkopingofficial Instagram: @wadkoping_orebro

The Town Hall/Cajsa Warg’s house in Wadköping.

In the Selånger valley, you’ll find windy landscapes and untouched nature – and also, the start of the world’s most northerly pilgrimage. The trail starts at the Selånger Centre by the Baltic Sea in the north-east of Sweden and takes travellers all the way to the Atlantic Sea in Trondheim, western Norway, welcoming hundreds of pilgrims every year.

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Selånger Pilgrimscenter

“The trail is 580 kilometres long and is the most northerly pilgrim trail in the world. Pilgrims of 54 different nationalities have been here to experience the hike, and we love to see our centre welcome all kinds of people, who are all on their individual journeys,” says Helene Westerlind, manager at the Selånger Pilgrim Centre.

“The trail is special in many ways,” she adds, “but particularly because it includes both the barren mountains of Norway and the flowing fields of Sweden. You really get to see the contrasts and the theatre that is nature.”

Saint Olov As well as being the starting point of the trail, the centre is a community that invites guests to rest, explore the landscape, and get to know the history. You can enjoy the local cuisine in the restaurant while looking out over the landscape and spotting pilgrims heading towards their adventures.

“This meeting point allows our visitors to learn more about the story of the land, and to socialise. We have a restaurant that is open all year round, as well as conference rooms and a museum that tells the story of Olav Haraldsson, the Viking who headed to Norway to claim the Norwegian crown in 1030. He was killed in Stiklestad and later canonised as Saint Olav,” Westerlind explains.

The fate of Saint Olav became the beginning of pilgrimage in the north, and the centre tells the story of how the Swedish beliefs switched from the Norse Gods to Christianity, as well as how this has affected life today. “Saints have had an impact on our calendars, traditions and culture. It is an exciting story that really captures our way of life,” Westerlind concludes.

Web: selangerpilgrimscenter.se Facebook: Selånger Pilgrimscenter Instagram: @selangerpilgrimscenter