Hotel

Photo: Alexander Dahl

Hotel of the Month, Sweden

Stockholm’s boutique newcomer: an exclusive stay behind the scenes

Backstage Hotel Stockholm is more than a new boutique hotel. Here, guests get exclusive treats based on the backstage riders of iconic performers, and insights into the local cultural community and curated happenings. This is a playful entertainment hub where great design, music and art meet.

By Malin Norman

The recently opened Backstage Hotel Stockholm is a new hotel concept for guests. “We offer something more than a boutique hotel,” says Ingmari Pagenkemper, CEO of Cirkus Venues, the name behind this initiative as well as other renowned venues in Stockholm. “With Backstage Hotel, we curate the experience for the guest, invite them into the vibrant cultural community of Stockholm, and build an ambitious business without being pretentious.” The concept ensures that guests are treated like stars, with top-notch service and everything that is expected backstage. Guests can even organise private parties in the suites, with their own DJ. For sure, this is not your standard hotel. In the same building, a new restaurant, bakery and boutique Konsthallen serves as the hotel’s eatery and also organises regular happenings with music, wine and culinary experiences.

Our way of consuming culture has changed, according to Pagenkemper, due to streaming possibilities and, of course, the pandemic. “Nowadays, a lot more is required from venues and organisers to attract an audience. It’s not enough with a great concert or cool DJs, or a standard

Photo: Seth&Östen

hotel room with a bed. The whole experience has to offer something more. With Backstage Hotel, we give that something extra – an opportunity to get up close and intimate with life backstage.”

Understated luxury and the party of the year Together with famous Swedish concept designer Robert Bohman, a playful atmosphere has been created to transport the guest behind the scenes. Bohman has 25 years’ experience designing for clubs, restaurants and film productions in Sweden and internationally. “I wanted to create a cinematic environment, where each room is unique – a world of its own with art and interiors that mix vintage and new,” he says. “The lofts, suites and studios are luxuriously comfortable – our take on what it really means to be invited backstage.”

The old building itself dates back to 1880 and has been carefully restored and recreated, revealing details such as rafters and ornately-tiled stoves. With signature design pieces from POLSPOTTEN, furniture by Eichholtz and carefully selected contemporary art – Backstage Hotel certainly means business with a unique stay in understated luxury.

The hotel opened its doors in September with ‘the party of the year’. Some 800 guests came to party, some with personal AAA (Access All Areas) passes. Mötley Crue’s snake occupied one room, Lady Gaga’s mannequin with pink pubic hair another, and Deadmau5’s inflatable friends were found on one of the terraces. No doubt, this was a night to remember. “The launch party was everything we dreamt of and more,” says Pagenkemper, smiling. “We were proud to show off the entertainment hub in Djurgården from its sexiest side.”

Backstage riders and curated happenings Guests at the hotel can get tailored experiences with real-life so-called ‘backstage riders’ – lists of requests that high-profile performers often demand of the hosting venue. For instance, iconic saxophone player David Sanborn had an intriguing list of things to be placed in his suite before check-in, according to his rider from 2011. Among them were ‘large napkins’ and a ‘bed board under the mattress’, Sanborn also wanted ‘eight ripe papayas’ and ‘one large, sharp knife (for papayas)’. With the hotel’s rider called ‘eight ripe papayas’, guests get healthy goodies such as fresh fruit, coconut and dark chocolate from Konsthallen in their room.

When Missy Elliot and her entourage hit the road, the rider usually contains some particular requests, from Jolly Rancher Lollipops, Grey Poupon mustard and Cheetos, to Bond No 9 Candles in preferred scents of New York, Harlem and Park Ave. Of course, there is also fabulous Champagne on Missy Elliot’s rider. The hotel’s ‘Get Ur Freak On’ rider is an homage to the iconic artist and includes three bottles of Champagne with seasonal treats and goodies.

Backstage Hotel also guides its guests to the city’s most interesting and entertaining happenings. With the curated guide Backstage Happenings, people will know exactly where to go and what to do in Stockholm. “There is so much you can experience in the city, such as concerts and exhibitions, but also bars and restaurants, as well as shopping and wellness activities. Our staff has the local knowledge and will help with tips and bookings,” says Pagenkemper.

“The area Djurgården is a bit like Central Park in New York; you can easily combine an urban atmosphere with some relaxing time in lush nature next-door,” she concludes. “This is a dynamic culinary and artistic hub in Stockholm that is open for everyone. And it’s really close by, only a short walk, tram or boat ride from the city centre.”

www.backstagehotelsthlm.com Instagram: @backstagehotelsthlm

Photo: Seth&Östen Photo: Alexander Dahl Photo: Seth&Östen

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Turning heads: Copenhagen’s colourful new retreat for travellers and locals

In March this year, Copenhagen got a little more colourful. The reason? 25hours Hotels, the international hotel group renowned for its vibrant interior design, restaurants and bars, opened its first property in Scandinavia, in one of the hottest locations in the Danish capital.

By Lena Hunter | Photos: Stephan Lemke.

Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen’s cobbled Old Town, a stone’s throw from the city’s classic postcard sights, shopping streets and a direct train to the airport, the spot could not be sweeter. But despite being enveloped by Danish history and design, 25hours Hotel Indre By has eschewed the conventions of Scandinavian minimalism.

Spread across four historic buildings, the hotel is resplendent in bold palettes and We work with different designers for every 25hours Hotels property,” explains sales and marketing manager Linda Faust.

patterns, bespoke textiles and over 100 artworks curated by the international art consultancy VISTO. The look is opulent but never overcooked, thanks to the sharp creative eyes behind the concept.

“The history of the location has a huge influence on the design. Our team of anthropologists, historians, designers and hospitality experts will identify a storyline based on the location, and then search for an interior designer to bring it to life. A bold and beautiful urban oasis Based in an old university building, the Copenhagen hotel takes inspiration from

the overarching concept of ‘Coming of Age’. “We worked with the themes of passion and knowledge and collaborated with Martin Brudnizki Design Studios in London. We deliberately chose them so as not to go the New Nordic way, and to express more energy and vibrancy in the design,” says Faust.

The artful rooms range from ‘Medium Single’ to ‘Gigantic’, including bike rental. “Every room is distinct – it’s like exploring different worlds,” says Faust. Speaking of little universes, some rooms even have direct access to the charming Secret Garden on the first floor. “Surprisingly, there’s total peace and quiet in the garden, even though you’re right next to the city’s biggest shopping street. We also have an outdoor sauna, gym and wellness facilities. We want to be more than just a place where people sleep and check out of,” says Faust.

Case in point: 25hours Hotel Indre By is also home to four bars and eateries, which have quickly become favourites amongst Copenhagen locals and guests alike. “They’re open to everyone. As in our other hotels, 80 per cent of our bar and restaurant visitors are locals. We think it’s a much richer experience when you visit a city and mix with locals,” says Faust.

Copenhagen’s new local hangout Enter the hotel, beneath a playful awning that proclaims ‘We will never grow up’, and you won’t find a reception. Instead, you’ll be greeted by the photography-filled Italian Café Duse, run by acclaimed pastry chef and author Melissa Forti, who designed the afternoon tea for the Royal Academy of Arts in London. “She’s incredibly talented and in December she’ll be serving Christmas cakes and pastries with a twist. It’s a great spot to break up a Copenhagen shopping marathon,” says Faust with a smile.

Beside the café is the colourful Israeli inspired Restaurant NENI, which celebrates its roots with a Levantine menu and mural of Tel Aviv, and the decadent Assembly Bar – a meeting point for coffee, cocktails and snacks, decorated with stunning jacquard fabrics by the Finnish textile artist Kustaa Saksi.

“We’ve placed the reception as far as possible from the hotel entrance, so you don’t feel like you’re in a lobby,” explains Faust. “We really want to make everyone feel welcome and that our doors are always open.” And there’s more revelry downstairs. The atmospheric basement speakeasy, Boilerman Bar, might be the hotel’s best-kept secret, with a slick cocktail menu and boardgames embedded into the tables.

25hours Hotel Indre By might be a newcomer, but it’s no shrinking violet. “We’re something different. You can find the conventional Scandinavian design aesthetic everywhere, so even if you’re coming to Copenhagen to explore that scene, it’s a breath of fresh air to stay with us,” says Faust. “We’re an explosion of colours, patterns and textiles and don’t have the typical Danish food – though you can find it just seconds from the hotel. Especially for frequent travellers, it’s a treat to experience a different side of Copenhagen.”

www.25hours-hotels.com Address: Pilestræde 65, 1112 Copenhagen K Instagram: @25hourshotel_copenhagen Facebook: 25hoursHotelCopenhagen

Hotel of the Month, Norway Fosen Fjordhotel: “a miniature Norway”

Imagine a holiday where you wake up to the sunrise on the river, hike in the mountains during the day, and later watch the sunset over the fjord while you eat some of the finest seafood Norway has to offer. Staying at Fosen Fjordhotel is truly an allin-one experience.

By Andri Papanicolas | Photos: Fosen Fjordhotel

The view from the Via Ferrata. Photo: Fosen Aktiv

Norway has a lot to offer. So much so that visitors often have to plan meticulously to get the most out of their holiday. But there is a hidden gem in Åfjord, Trøndelag county, where guests can experience the best of all worlds.

Fosen Fjordhotel is run by Ole Fr. Jonsbråten, his wife Grethe Bratvold and their son Julian Jonsbråten. The family is dedicated to great hospitality; guests arrive to a warm welcome, with a roaring fireplace and cosy candlelight.

Though the historical hotel has been a social melting pot in the small town for centuries, it had been quiet for many years before Ole and his wife fell in love it in 2019, and decided to bring the charming hotel back to life. “We came to a land of opportunity, here. The locals were welcoming and already hard at work to put Fosen and Åfjord on the map. This was crucial to us when we made our decision,” Ole says. Today, the hotel is once again the lively centrepiece of the town – the go-to place for both visitors and locals.

Ole describes Fosen Fjordhotel and Åfjord as a miniature version of Norway, with access to the mountains, fjords, forests, rivers and the sea all in one place. Stunning hikes are within walking distance, and it’s a short drive to the award-winning beach at Stokkøya, nearby farms selling local produce, or small shops in the enchanting town centre.

Where the river meets the sea The hotel itself offers 51 rooms, from regular hotel rooms, to studios, family rooms, suites or junior suites overlooking the river and the hotel garden. The garden is an important part of the hotel, with plenty to see all year round. When it’s in bloom in the spring and summer, you can enjoy a good meal in its relaxing atmosphere, while watching the salmon

Julian makes a cocktail in the hotel bar. Photo: Ellen-Beate Grøtting

Fosen Fjordhotel offers serene views over forests and rivers. Photo: Ole Fr. Jonsbråten

Guests enjoying the hotel garden. Photo: Ole Fr. Jonsbråten

and trout bounce across the river. In the winter, you can go swimming in the river followed by a sauna and fire-hut session. That’s the real Scandinavian way.

The hotel is located where the Stordalsriver and Nordalsriver meet as a fjord that runs to the sea. As such, the fishing opportunities are endless. The sea and fjord are the soul of Åfjord, drawing visitors from all over the world. “It does not matter how much experience you have. You can try salmon fishing in the river from the hotel garden and, if you’re more daring, you can go winter fishing on the open sea, or try ice fishing in one of the many lakes,” says Ole.

Ole and Grethe take great pride in Fosen Fjordhotel’s food and beverage offering of traditional Norwegian home-cooked meals, classic à la carte courses with a personal twist, and tailored fine-dining menus. The menu is thoughtfully put together and the kitchen works in harmony with nature; you will always find fresh, local and seasonal produce on the menu. Meanwhile, the bartenders collaborate with the chefs to create signature cocktails that perfectly suit the menu.

The hotel also arranges weekly events that bring together visitors and locals

Enjoy a SUP or a kajak excursion from the hotel garden. Photo: Ole Fr. Jonsbråten Daniel, one of Fosen Fjordhotel’s talented bartenders. Photo: Bede Achike

Åfjord mussels, rumours say they’re the best mussels in the world. Photo: Ellen-Beate Grøtting Sweet treats in the hotel restaurant. Photo: Ole Fr. Jonsbråten

and support the surrounding community. Everyone is welcome to the hotel, whether for a coffee or a longer stay. This results in a friendly and vibrant atmosphere.

Discover adventure and relaxation alike Fosen Fjordhotel collaborates with the experience agency Fosen Aktiv to offer unique experiences for visitors. Depending on your timeframe and interests, the team can arrange custom excursions during your stay.

To illustrate the endless possibilities, Ole describes a day of adventure for a tourist group from Trondheim: “The group walked five minutes from their hotel in Trondheim to the harbor where they got suits and goggles. They were transported on a RIB over the open sea, into the fjord. In two hours they enjoyed stunning views over the old fisheries and lighthouses, and spotted eagles and seals in their natural habitat.”

“When they got to Åfjord, they had fresh mussels for lunch before they buckled up and climbed the Via Ferrata. They drank fresh rhubarb juice made by local farmers on the top of the mountain. When they got back to the hotel, they went for a swim and to the sauna. In the lobby bar, they tasted local beers combined with cured meats. Later, they dined at the chef’s table in our restaurant and were served seven courses, fol-

lowed by local aquavit and a gin tasting in front of the fireplace.”

Whether you dream of trying salmon fishing, sea fishing, kayaking, riding an electric bike over the mountains, or scuba diving, Fosen Fjordhotel and Fosen Aktiv will arrange it for you. The hotel is suitable for families, couples, seniors and both large and small groups, and offers culinary experiences and exclusive business packages for meetings, events, kick-offs and team building. The latest addition is the new sports lounge bar with a small movie theatre, six big screens, pool tables, shuffleboards, darts and other games. Fosen Fjordhotel is an authentic reflection of the Norwegian phrase ‘koselig’, meaning cosy. In the lobby bar, you will find a fireplace, comfortable sitting groups and friendly faces. “Our team is like family. We are a mix of people from around the world and the local area; that’s what makes us so unique,” Ole says. Everyone is invited to discover Norwegian nature, cuisine and culture all year round at Fosen Fjordhotel – the opportunities are endless.

Ole and Grethe run Fosens Fjordhotel. Photo: Alexander Killingberg www.fosenfjordhotel.no Instagram: @Fosenfjordhotel Facebook: Fosen Fjordhotel