Scan Magazine, Issue 154, May 2023

PLEASURE SEEKER? LOOK NO FURTHER

Båstad & the Bjäre Peninsula in Sweden is the place for you who want to enjoy life for real. Treat yourself and those you care about with a trip worth remembering. Regardless of whether you are looking for an active or relaxing trip, you will find what you seek here. Enjoy comfortable beds, luxurious hotel breakfasts, enjoyable spa experiences, excellent cuisine, exciting vineyards, and last but not least we have really great events. All in an incredibly beautiful environment which gives you energy til tomorrow.

Warm welcome!

Our cover star in this May issue of Scan Magazine is a global name in folk music with a career spanning two decades, more than a billion streams on Spotify and sold-out concerts around the world. But José González is not one to rest on his laurels; the Swedish singer-songwriter has recently co-produced an autobiographical documentary that digs into themes of existentialism, eco-humanism, and his personal mental health struggles in a psychedelic self-portrait. In our conversation, the prolific artist and thinker discusses his philosophies, musical career and foray into filmmaking.

Elsewhere, find inspiration in our profiles of contemporary Nordic ceramicists, printmakers, jewellers, craftspeople, entrepreneurs, and six major – but often-overlooked – designers of the 20th century. Then, join us on a sartorial time warp from the latest need-toknow Scandi labels in the Fashion Diary, back to the Viking age for a deep dive into the ancient Icelandic tradition of making garments from eiderdown.

Plus, we’re getting outdoors with recommendations for summer travel experiences in Sweden and Denmark, from moose safaris to medieval castles. Those heading to Copenhagen should consult our local’s guide to Amager – the beachfront neighbourhood south of the city centre that’s quickly becoming the latest in-the-know hangout. If you haven’t decided which Nordic country to explore yet, then don’t miss our Best of the Month section for tips on the best places to eat, drink, play and stay as the daylight hours lengthen.

Whichever part of the region you’re drawn to, there’s something for curious minds of all persuasions. Enjoy!

Lena Hunter, Editor

SCAN

In this issue

COVER FEATURE

28 José González: the quiet musician on a mission to do good

With a career spanning two decades, more than a billion streams on Spotify and sold-out concerts around the world, José González is loved by the people. Currently on tour with his new documentary A Tiger in Paradise, he is also celebrating the 20year anniversary of his first album Veneer and performing songs from his latest album. The modest musician’s universal voice has a clear and consistent message: to do good.

DESIGN & CULINARY

6 Pioneering women of design, Scandi style picks and the spread of ‘fika’

Find style inspiration in this month’s Fashion Diary, and homeware inspiration in our profiles of independent Nordic ceramicists, printmakers, and more. Plus, meet the Icelandic family producing eiderdown exactly as the Vikings did, discover how the Swedish tradition of ‘fika’ is spreading around the world, and get to know six often-overlooked pioneers of 20th-century Scandinavian design, in fields ranging from architecture to textiles.

LIFESTYLE

25 A surprising chocolate pairing, the psychology of hoarding and fresh skin tips

Beer expert Malin Norman is pleasantly surprised by a beer-and-chocolate pairing, while sustainability columnist Alejandra Cerda Ojensa reflects on the links between hoarding and trauma. If – like us in the Nordics – you’re yet to feel the full force of early summer weather, join us as we try out “the new way to self-tan”, and learn the science behind a pioneering Swedish skincare label.

SPECIAL THEMES

34 Top Experiences in Denmark in 2023

We’re taking a distinctly outdoorsy and cultural holiday to Denmark, this May. From staying at a restored 19th-century farmhouse on the Baltic island of Bornholm and embarking on a seaweed safari in northern Sjælland, to admiring the art of the Danish Golden Age and discovering the country’s seafaring history, this Danish itinerary is as good for the heart as it is for the mind.

44 The Best Summer Experiences in Sweden

Boasting 29 national parks, 100,000 lakes, 2,000 miles of coastline and leafy cities both rustic and modern, Sweden is an ideal destination for summer travels in Europe. We’re taking you to a wholesome tavern in the Lidö archipelago, an enchanting medieval castle, fairytale forest cabins, a worldrenowned photo gallery and a slew of dreamy horticultural and botanical gardens. There’s more yet, and a few surprises along the way. You might even meet a moose!

62 Made in Norway

In Norway, we discover six innovative design and culinary ventures that are drawing attention from the international market. In these interviews with founders and creators, we dig into the philosophy behind their thinking, the history behind their successes, and the drive behind their products.

CULTURE

90 Copenhagen’s alt hangout, new Scandi tunes and unmissable events

Get off the beaten track in Copenhagen with our local guide to Amager – the beachfront neighbourhood south of the centre that’s quickly becoming the city’s latest and greatest alternative hangout. Elsewhere, illustrator Maria Smedstad pens an ode to her posh friends, while music columnist Karl Batterbee sorts through the new music releases in the Nordics. Plus, discover the region’s best May events in the Scandinavian culture calendar.

Fashion Diary

May means spring has sprung for real. We’re eager to get out and enjoy green fields bursting with flowers and to stroll bare pavements. Dress in box-fresh trainers and outfits perfect for sunny-day activities.

By Åsa H. Aaberge | Press photos

Set by 7 Days Active

For relaxing, heading to the gym and everything in between, this ultra-soft sweatshirt-pant set is a unisex staple of Copenhagen brand 7 Days Active. Go a size up for an oversized, slouchy look. Crew Neck, €150 Sweat Pants, €150 www.7daysactive.com

For bad hair days and lounging in the sun, a cap is a must all spring long.

Brian Tennis Cap, €80 www.woodwood.com

The unisex small-neck cashmere scarf from Norwegian O.A Devold is inspired by Norwegian fishermen who used to rip up old wool cloths and use them as a scarf to keep warm, hence the fringed edges. The soft scarf comes in two colours; cream or dark navy. Neck Scarf, €180 www.oadevold.com

The white leather trainer from Morjas embraces contemporary design with timeless style. This shimmering model marries soft suede with soft calf leather, built with plush padding around the ankle and a cushioning sole. A sharper day-to-day trainer.

The Trainer, €185 www.morjas.com

Trainers by Morjas

Cap by WoodWood

Scarf by O.A Devold

Sunglasses by Cos

These limited-edition sunglasses from Cos are from their collaboration with iconic sunglasses maker Linda Farrow. With a narrow rectangular shape, they are crafted from a creamy acetate with contrasting dusty-pink arms and sculpted nose pads.

Cos x Linda Farrow, €115 www.cosstores.com

Sweater and socks by Colorful Standard

Danish brand Colorful Standard makes clothes with a sustainable approach – with people and the environment in mind. Their unisex college crewnecks are a versatile favorite that comes in an array of hues, made in organic cotton. Pick your favorite colour and wear it with a blazer for a dressedup look, and shorts for warmer days and matching socks.

Classic Organic Crew, €70 Classic Organic Socks, €10 www.colorfulstandard.com

Aviator Jacket by House of Dagmar

Relaxed and refined, this timeless aviator-style jacket from the Swedish brand House of Dagmar is a reliable spring staple, made of cotton with an oversized, voluminous silhouette and a high-stand collar. Aviator Jacket, €510 www.houseofdagmar.com

Trainers by Spalwart

Take these Swedish leather trainers for a spin this spring. The leather makes them durable, the airy rubber sole makes them comfy, and the fresh colours make them fun. The unisex Marathon trainers come in different colours, so pick your vibe.

Marathon Low, €240 www.spalwart.com

We Love This: Women pioneers of modern Nordic design

The six mid-20th-century designers on this list are just a few of the women pioneers of what we today revere as ‘the Scandinavian style’. Across architectural, interior, graphic, furniture and urban design, these women introduced new philosophies and shapes that have endured to this day – despite working in a male-dominated industry in which women’s creative output was systemically undervalued.

By Lena Hunter | Press photos

The acclaimed Danish architect, furniture designer, professor and researcher Bodil Kjær boasts a formidable portfolio of seminal work in design and academia – particularly in interior design and city planning. Though she is best recognised in pop culture for her 1960s office furniture series, she notes with characteristic specificity: “I am not a furniture designer; I am a designer of environments. I am concerned about solving problems of the kind that can be defined. I am concerned about delight and beauty rather than opulence and vulgarity.”

Swedish-American Greta Grossman was a designer and architect renowned for her modernist furniture and lighting, the most influential of which include the characterful ‘Grasshopper’ floor lamp and svelte ‘Cobra’ table lamp. Grossman was one of few female designers to make waves in the mid-20th century architectural scene in Los Angeles. She was posthumously inducted into the Interior Design Hall of Fame in 2020.

Danish designer Grete Jalk’s furniture, spanning chairs, tables and sofas, was characterised by functionality, simple elegance and attention to materiality. Her ‘GJ’ chair and table are contemporary favourites still in production today, and she was heavily decorated with awards, including the Lunning Prize, throughout her career. Beyond designing, Jalk edited the Danish magazine Mobilia and compiled a four-volume work on Danish furniture.

Grete Jalk (1920 – 2006)

Greta Grossman (1906 – 1999)

Bodil Kjær (b. 1932)

‘Shell Chair’ by Grete Jalk.

Photo: Modernity

Greta Grossman.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Bodil Kjær. Photo: Form Portfolios

Pioneering Helsinki-born architect Aino Aalto is best known for co-founding and art-directing the Finnish design company Artek, and for collaborating on some of its most enduring designs. Her creative output spanned textiles, lamps, glassware and architecture.

The Danish furniture designer Nanna Ditzel is behind the perennially popular ‘Trinidad’ and ‘Hanging Egg’ chairs, which have achieved icon status in Nordic design history. Ever the experimenter, Ditzel’s other work included making cabinets, jewellery, tableware and textiles. She was a pioneer for women in the male-dominated design industry and was awarded the lifelong Artists’ Grant by the Danish Ministry of Culture in 1998.

The co-founder of the Finnish textile company Marimekko, Armi Maria is a giant of Finland’s storied design heritage. Famously quoted as saying “I sell ideas, not dresses”, she fostered a spirit of creative freedom at the brand, hiring women who went on to become major names in Finnish graphic design in their own rights.

Armi Ratia (1912 – 1979)

Nanna Ditzel (1923 – 2005)

Aino Aalto (1894 – 1949)

Armi Ratia. Photo: Markku Lepola, Wikimedia Commons

The first Artek store in Helsinki, 1936. Photo: Artek

Nanna Ditzel’s ‘Bench for Two’ with table.

Photo: H Gallery

Ceramics that will leave you in awe

Charlotte Nielsen creates ceramics that will leave you astonished. These are not your usual ceramics: inspired by machines and technology, her pieces express the unique contrast between the organic and the mechanical, and mix feminine and masculine elements. Her work is slightly rough and a little bit disconcerting; just enough to leave you in awe.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Charlotte Nielsen Keramik

Charlotte Nielsen knew she wanted to be a ceramicist since she was 16 years old. Though the road has been full of twists, turns and loops, she has developed her own creative language over the last 20 years; a ceramic language that has resulted in unique pieces with a distinctive touch. The inspiration behind her art? Not what you might expect!

“I have a deep fascination with machines and technology and they have been a major source of inspiration for my art. I am

especially fascinated by porosity and rust. It is not so much the machine technology I have a fascination with, but more the decay of it,” says Nielsen.

Charlotte Nielsen’s ceramics recall some of the aesthetic qualities of machines, with a darker colour and rougher texture than conventional Danish ceramics. They present the stark contrast between organic sensuality and machine-inspired forms, bridging these disparate visual realms with a striking minimalism that’s both astonishing and slightly disconcerting.

Inspired by Japanese minimalism

One of the most unique characteristics of Charlotte Nielsen’s ceramics is the rough texture and the reddish and bluish hues. This is one of the hallmarks of raku-fired

ceramics. The raku technique involves taking glazed ceramics from the kiln while they are still glowing red-hot. The ceramics are then placed in a flammable material, such as sawdust or newspaper, to starve the piece of oxygen, which creates a myriad of beautiful colours within the glaze.

“It is almost primitive, like something you would see in ancient times. The technique imprints unique traces from the flames and the sod. I glaze my ceramics with cop-

per, which creates these beautiful reddish and bluish tones, not unlike metal and rust,” explains Nielsen.

Depending on the size of the piece, it can be left in the sawdust for up to 24 hours. The bigger the piece, the longer it needs in the sawdust. By using the raku technique, Nielsen creates one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces, with each bearing unique variations from the flames and sod.

Where femininity meets masculinity

Nielsen’s ceramics are decorative objects that add character and personality to the home. They are like sculptures: you won’t find cups, vases or plates in her collections. “It is not a mass production. Every single piece is made by hand, and each piece has its own variations. My pieces are not meant to be used, they are meant to be enjoyed by the eye. I work with sculptures,” says Nielsen.

What is also very special about Nielsen’s work is the balance between the aesthtics of fragility and robustness. She displays an arresting creative fluency, inside the medium of ceramics, with ideas relating to machines, technology, rust and darker

colours. One thing is for sure: you will get a piece of art that you will love having on display in your home.

www.cn-keramik.dk

Instagram: @charlottenielsenkeramik

Permanent exhibitions: Galleri Lorien - Frederiksberg, Copenhagen

Væg Gallery - Aalborg.

Home showroom: Reerslev in Ruds-Vedby, open by appointment only.

You can find several of Charlotte Nielsen’s pieces at CLAY Shop, Museum of Ceramic Art Denmark.

Upcoming events:

27 – 29 May: Kunst i Pinsen, Open House at Charlotte Nielsen’s home showroom in Reerslev, Ruds-Vedby, from 11-17

6-8 June: Villvin Kunsthåndverkmarked, Norway (art market)

10-12 August: Frue Plads Marked, Denmark

Icelandic Eider is a long saga and it’s ducking warm

Iceland is known for its people’s dry sense of humour, incredible nature and for having the oldest parliament in Europe. However, eiderdown has been overlooked. Now, a reincarnated Icelandic family busness is launching a new range of products, and they are “ducking warm”.

By Philip Denvir | Photos: Icelandic Eider

Árni Örvarsson took over the family eider duck sanctuary and eiderdown business five years ago and hasn’t looked back. “The business is built on an 80-year family history with eiderdown. Today, we are expanding the business beyond duvets and pillows. These are classic Icelandic products, but we have more to offer,” explains Árni.

Trolls and ducks

Located 400 kilometres from Iceland’s capital of Reykjavik, in Hraun in the Fljót Valley on the Troll Peninsula, the pictur-

esque family land is ideally located for a sanctuary. It’s one of the larger eider sanctuaries in Iceland, home to around 3,500 nesting eider ducks.

Eiderdown has been gathered in Hraun since 1860, but its heritage goes much further back. When the Vikings settled Iceland in 874 CE, they used eiderdown to insulate clothing and bedding against the unforgiving climate. The efficacy of their method was such that it has changed little since. “Eiderdown is not commonly known, but it should be. We have 75 per cent of the world’s resources here in Iceland. At our habitat we do everything from ‘nest to vest’ by hand, “ explains Árni.

Ducking Warm

The spin-off company, with the tonguein-cheek name Ducking Warm, is set to launch a range of new garments later this year. The first jackets will debut in November at the Outdoor Wear Show in Salt Lake City, Utah, while other gar-

Vikings used eiderdown for insulation when they settled in Iceland in 874 CE, and the methods have changed little since.

Made in Iceland

ments including vests, parkers and skishells are in the works.

Árni says: “This is a luxury product because there is not much eiderdown in the world. Iceland has about 75 per cent of the global yield. Icelandic eiderdown is not only sustainable, but also ecological, as we allow the ducks to be ducks.”

Eider ducks are non-migratory and are uniquely adapted to the hostile climate of northern Iceland. Because of this, their inner ‘eiderdown’ feathers are supremely warm. “The ducks will start to nest at the end of April or beginning of June. Hormonal changes before nesting causes their body temperatures to rise by about 1-2 degrees centigrade. This causes them to moult their down, creating a brood patch in which their bodywarmth is easily transferred to the eggs. The eiderdown is so insulating that it doesn’t allow their body warmth to escape so they need to moult it. This is what distinguishes eiderdown from anything else on the planet. Hence, our eiderdown is a by-product of the natural process,” explains Árni.

The santurary employs modern technology, including drones, to safeguard the wellbeing of their ducks from such natural predators as arctic foxes, seagulls and ravens. “I am like a mafia boss. I protect the ducks and ducklings and they pay me in down,” quips Árni.

When the first ducklings leave the nest it is time to start collecting the down as

all chicks leave the nests almost at the same time. “It is miraculous to watch the ducklings leave. We gently lift the adults off their nest and gather the down. It is a very respectful bond between humans and wild birds,” he expalins.

This level of care is confirmed by research from the University of Iceland. “Following Icelandic tradition, for generations we’ve taken care of wild eider ducks in our sanctuary. We build protective nesting spots and the wild ducks naturally come to roost, protected from the harsh Icelandic weather. We protect them during their nesting period, ward off predators and, when their nesting cycle is over, they fly away, returning again the next year. We gently harvest the leftover fluff from their nests by hand, process it in our barns, then hand-sew our own brand of duvets to order,” says Árni.

The down is dried and initially cleaned using ‘lava water’ from geothermal and hydropower. This represents 100 per cent of Iceland’s power. The eiderdown

is then gently machine cleaned using multiple, handmade machines, before a final hand-clean. Behind each single kilogram of eiderdown are around 65 man hours.

A sanctuary, not a production line

“We operate a sanctuary, not a production line. Our product is the lightest and most insulating product in nature. Icelandic Eiderdown is naturally hydrophobic, hypoallergenic and without chemicals,” says Árni. “These days, many people want to keep improving on things, but often nature got there first. In the outdoor industry, there is a lot of talk about sustainability that doesn’t always translate to real-world results. Our product uses proven traditional methods that are truly sustainable and only give back to the environment,” says Árni.

The brand’s products are ethical and wonderfully soft.“Our brand is luxurious because it is environmentally positive, handmade and pure. We’re experts in eiderdown: for more than 80 years, our family has made bespoke Icelandic eiderdown duvets, which are often referred to as the Rolls Royce of duvets. We’ve supplied them to royalty,” he continues. “We’re calling our new brand Ducking Warm because once people try it on, that’s what they say!”

www.duckingwarm.com

www.icelandiceider.com

Instagram: @icelandiceider

Contact: arni@icelandiceider.com

The family busness is launching a new range of products and they are “ducking warm”.

Newly collected eiderdown.

An eider duck.

Promoting Greenlandic culture through design

Greenland is best known for its unique indigenous culture, as well as its astonishing nature and wildlife. Both are represented in prints made by the small business, Inuk Design. All prints are originally hand drawn by graphic designer, Liv Aurora Jensen, who runs the company with her husband, Peter Jensen.

By Karen Gilmour Kristensen | Photos: Inuk Design

Inuk Design produces a range of home products, from tableware to pillowcases and clothes, printed with Arctic-inspired designs. Its small store in the Greenlandic capital of Nuuk is a trove of original craft inspired by Greenlandic culture and nature.

‘Inuk’ means ‘human’ in Greenlandic. For Liv, Inuk Design has helped her reconnect with her own Greenlandic heritage. Born in Qasigiannguit in northern Greenland, she moved to Denmark at seven years

old with her Danish father. Greenland has a shared history with Denmark dating back several hundred years. It was ruled by Denmark until 1979, but is today a self-governing country within the Kingdom of Denmark.

“I never felt at home in Denmark. When I moved to Denmark, I lost my language and my culture and I fell out of touch with my family,” says Liv. She decided to move back to Greenland in 1987 but, unable to speak the language, found it difficult to re-

integrate with Greenlanders. In fact, she recalls, it was like starting over completely. Luckily, Liv had her creativity to rely on: “Moving back here was a long, difficult and emotional journey. During that time,

I have subconsciously drawn my way back to the culture by drawing memories from my childhood,” she says.

Things became easier when Liv met Peter. The pair began working together in 2001, became a couple and got married the following year. Liv describes Peter as “a gift – someone who believed in me and my creative skills,” and Peter adds that Liv is “a very skillful graphic designer.” “My wife doesn’t draw every day but when she does, it’s almost as if she falls into a trance,” he says. “She will create a complete drawing in one go on a small piece of paper – without making any mistakes.”

International recognition

Inuk Design’s unique homage to Greenlandic culture and nature has attracted international success, with Liv exhibiting

her work in cities like Reykjavik, Copenhagen, Düsseldorf, Paris and Toronto. This year, Inuk Design was awarded two awards by the German Design Council –the German Design Award and the Iconic Award. “The two German awards mean a lot to me,” Liv says. “It’s an amazing recognition that makes me incredibly happy and proud, especially because it was the German Design Council who found me online. I hadn’t reached out to them.”

Inuk Design is helping to spread positive representation of Greenlanders and their culture within Denmark, while the small shop has welcomed tourists from all over the world who have taken an interest in the designs. “We have had tourists from places including Germany, Brazil, Japan, USA and Canada,” Liv says. “When they see the designs, it’s like they connect

with it somehow. And when I ask what makes them interested in my products, they’ll tell me that they recognise their own culture in the designs. This makes me feel overwhelmed with joy. This design is unique, and yet it appeals to people of all ages and nations.”

Home is where the heart is

Even though they live in a remote community, Peter and Liv are outward-looking and have always felt at home on the international scene. “We have travelled quite a lot and whenever we travel, it’s like our own culture becomes stronger and more visible,” Liv explains.

Living in such an isolated place isn’t always easy for the business. Greenland has a small population, meaning they can’t order thousands of products at once, as they are not sure to sell quickly enough. Products must be manufactured ethically and sustainably abroad, and either flown or shipped to the country, which can take some time. Liv adds that there aren’t many traders in Greenland – making it a somewhat lonely profession.

Nevertheless, the couple wouldn’t want it any other way, and so they find solutions to the practical challenges. Inuk Design’s webshop, for example, ships worldwide. “I guess we could move to a major European city, such as London or Paris,” Liv reflects. “But our hearts belong here.”

www.inukdesign.one

Instagram: @inuk_design

Facebook: Inuk Design

Peter Jensen and Liv Aurora Jensen from Inuk Design.

The art of eliminating the unnecessary

The ceramicist Inge Vincents handcrafts accessible ‘thinware’ porcelain objects with an organic twist and an eye for Danish design tradition.

By Marianne Thøgersen | Photos: Inge Vincents

Inge Vincents.

On Jægersborggade, a cobbled street packed with independent boutiques, studios and eateries in the Nørrebro neighbourhood of Copenhagen, behind a fiery red door that beautifully contrasts with the all-white porcelain beyond, is Inge Vincents’ ceramic studio and shop.

Her ivory-coloured designs are beset with crinkles, ribs, folds and lines – and are characteristically thin. Merging tradi-

tional craft with contemporary design, Inge meticulously hand builds small batches of translucent vases, tealight-holders and bowls.

Fragile yet functional

“My approach to craftsmanship is about accessibility both in terms of design and price,” says Vincents. Her gift-friendly price tags range from 250 Danish kroner for a tealight-holder and 400-2,500 for vases, up to around 4,500 for larger objects – all made possible by selling straight from the kiln without a middleman.

Vincents explains that the all-white hue of her designs directs attention to their texture and organic shape: “There is plenty going on as it is. I work from thin to hysterically thin and aim for a distinctly

sculptural aesthetic as my pieces are designed to be sculptures in their own right when not in use,” she says.

With spring here, the curvy vases are ideal for displaying vibrant bouquets of tulips on a windowsill or as a dining-table centrepiece – and Vincents is an expert in packaging her beautifully thin porcelain for safe home transport and shipping

www.vincents.dk

Instagram: @keramikeringevincents

Statement jewellery for magical moments

Release your inner animal with Carolinne B’s ‘roarsome’ jewellery. Whether it’s with a bee necklace, big-cat bangle, wild earrings or a polar-bear ring, these statement pieces will bring your style to life and invite conversation.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Vera Nording

Details may be all around us, but when it comes to the natural world and the animal kingdom, it’s almost magical. That is according to Carolinne B’s eponymous founder, who thrives on recreating these beautiful details in her jewellery, from the delicate wings of a butterfly to flower buds springing into life. “Our love for nature continues to be a source of inspiration for all of our jewellery,” says Carolinne. “It has become our brand signature.”

Handcrafted with conscience

Nature comes first – but not just in terms of inspiration. Taking a stance against mass production, Carolinne B doesn’t release seasonal collections. Each piece is handmade in small batches from the brand’s Stockholm base. The jewellery is made from sterling silver (925) plated

with 18-carat gold, and is also available in 18-carat solid gold if requested.

“We use traceable materials and only work with suppliers who share our views on sustainability, making sure our production is run with as little impact on the environment as possible,” says Carolinne.

Meaning and memories

Bold and recognisable yet long-lasting and versatile, Carolinne B’s jewellery shows that ‘timeless’ doesn’t necessarily mean safe. In this case, it’s quite the opposite. “Everybody needs a standout piece in their jewellery box to brighten up the basics. Take our polar bear piece for instance: most of us know the challenges polar bears face in a warming Arctic. We hope this little piece will draw some attention and act as a conversation-start-

er to talk about impacts and solutions, while hanging around your neck,” explains Carolinne.

Made with meaning, Carolinne B’s pieces are also perfect to celebrate and commemorate important events. Whether that’s a friend’s birthday or a gift to yourself, the magic lies in the memory created from that special occasion.

www.carolinneb.com

Instagram: @carolinnebjewelry

Iceland’s hidden jewels

Dreams do come true, and Lovísa Halldórsdóttir Olesen, founder of -by lovísaof Iceland, is a shining example of this. Her elegant and inspired jewellery label started in a garage and is today available in shops throughout Iceland. Blending quality and art, it’s easy to see why her intricate silver, gold and precious-stone creations are so well received.

By Karin Blak | Photos: Aldís Pálsdóttir

In a hidden corner of Iceland, Lovísa and her husband, Þorsteinn Eyfjörð, are building a steady and successful business making exceptional jewellery. With Þorsteinn helming the business side, Lovísa is free to focus on creating designs inspired by the wonders of everyday life.

Colours, textures and shapes inform Lovísa’s creative process in developing jewellery for both everyday wear or for one-off commissions. The names of the ranges, such as Waterfall Lichen, Frost and Fairy Tale, capture the nature she is inspired by. Lovísa describes her approach as a

search for the point “where classic design and the latest trends intertwine.”

From gaining experience to going it alone

The world of creativity and art has captivated Lovísa from when she was a little girl. It became clear early on that this would be the essence of her life as an adult.

Fast forward to 2002, this prediction proved accurate when she graduated with a Master’s degree in art and fashion design. With this background, the path

Jewellery range: Örk

was paved for Lovísa to achieve further qualifications to fulfil her dreams. Like pearls on a string, she collected another Master’s qualification in 2007, this time in gold and silversmithing.

When talking about her work, she says: “This is where my heart is,” while holding her hand to her chest. That her designs are heartfelt is crystal clear in her work, which is displayed on the website and in the boutique in Iceland.

Although Lovísa recognises the value of her skills, she, like so many artists, is also modest. When asked to describe her success, she responds: “I find it hard to talk about myself.” Þorsteinn offers himself as the spokesperson for

Lovísa’s abilities. He is clearly proud of her achievements and comments that: “It is Lovísa’s talent, skills and ingenuity that has formed the brand -by lovísa- .”

The success story

After years of acquiring experience working on other people’s designs, Lovísa had a longing to focus on her own projects and decided it was time to set up a business. In 2013, Lovísa opened up her first boutique in the garage at their home, the success of which spurred her on to expand the business.

In 2021, Lovísa and Þorsteinn started working together, moving the business to its own premises which today combines a welcoming, beautiful store with

a well-equipped workshop where the jewellery is manufactured and repaired.

From this point on, Þorsteinn took over the business side, allowing Lovísa to pour her energy into designing and crafting the most exquisite ranges of jewellery. With this came an increase in their success.

As demand grew, Lovísa and Þorsteinn enlisted a little help from other workshops, while holding on tightly to the intricate details that are the hallmark of -by lovísa-.

The vision of -by lovísa-

The brand -by lovísa- is now known for its exquisite and elegant designs and is available through small retailers in Iceland, online shops, as well as Lovísa’s flagship boutique on Vinastræt in Urriðaholt in Garðabær. But there is more to come.

Aiming for the mid-range market where quality and affordability go hand in hand, -by lovísa- is spreading its wings and looking at opportunities outside Iceland, with the aim of collaborating in Scandinavia.

Going from a garage in a corner of Iceland to supplying retailers throughout the whole country, is no small achievement –though a natural step for jewellery with beauty of such wide appeal. Gifting a -by lovísa- piece to yourself or to a loved one can bring a little luxury into everyday life.

www.bylovisa.is

Instagram: @bylovisa_skartgripir

Facebook: bylovisa

Jewellery range: Örk

Lovísa Halldórsdóttir Olesen, Creator and goldsmith of -by lovísa- Jewellery range: Postcard Fairy Tale

Jewellery range: Fiskifletta

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Enjoy an authentic Swedish ‘fika’ anywhere in the world

From the centuries-old tradition of baking ‘lusekatter’ (saffron buns) on St. Lucia’s Day, to the modern habit of enjoying ‘lördagsgodis’ (Saturday sweets) at the weekend, Sweden is renowned for intertwining social celebrations with sugary treats. But no tradition is as beloved as the everyday ‘fika’.

By Lena Hunter | Photos: Swedish Fika

A ‘fika’ is a break for socialising over coffee, tea and pastries. The word originated from the Swedish word ‘kaffi’ in the 1700s, when drinking afternoon coffee with a snack at home became a regular –and uniquely Swedish – social event.

In the centuries since, this daily pause has become a matter of Swedish national identity, and certain homemade pastries and cookies have become fika essentials. The first to combine these fika essentials into a dedicated fika product was a small start-up called Himmelsö, which launched the confectionary line Swedish Fika in 2016.

Swedish Fika’s initial offering, the Original Pastry Box, contained ‘Chokladbollar’ (Chocolate Balls) –golf-ball sized chocolate-mocha pastries smothered in chocolate and rolled in desiccated coconut, and ‘Dammsugare’ (Vacuum Cleaners) – classic marzipan-coated pastries

with a delicious chocolate-oatmeal core. It was an instant success. Within weeks the Original Pastry Box became the best-seller in its category in the Swedish Travel Retail market.

From must-have souvenirs to luxury delights

While the Original Pastry Box remains a favourite, Swedish Fika’s all-vegan range has expanded to include Cinnamon Buns, Candy mix, Coffee Bags and the award-winning ‘Pepparkakor’ (Ginger Cookies). Annual cookie taste-tests are serious business in Sweden: competition is fierce and the standards high. So, it’s an accolade of the highest order that Swedish Fika’s ginger cookie was ranked best in the country (and by extension, perhaps the world!) for the third year running, by Sweden’s biggest newspaper.

Swedish Fika has quickly evolved from being a must-have souvenir to a luxury

delight. The newly launched ‘Chokladkakor’ (Chocolate Chip) and ‘Vaniljdrömmar’ (Vanilla Dream) cookies, which feature designer packaging, are hot property in the travel-retail and grocery markets, with Scandinavian and European stores fighting to be their exclusive distributor.

There are other pastries and cookies on the market, but none recall the homebaked flavours of childhood like Swedish Fika’s do. Each product is crafted sustainably, with the high-quality ingredients and packaging materials sourced largely from Scandinavia, and tied together with a deep respect for Nordic tradition and design.

Sweden’s beloved fika culture is spreading beyond its borders, and Himmelsö’s Swedish Fika products make it possible to enjoy authentic Swedish treats anywhere in the world today.

www.swedishfika.com

Instagram: @swedishfika

Facebook: Swedishfika

Fangst: Nordic traditions and delicious seafood

In the Nordic culinary world, fish and seafood traditions are strong. Fishing has been a primary industry in Scandinavia for centuries, and canning has enabled the industry to blossom internationally by enabling the preservation, sale and export of Nordic seafood to places as far away as Antarctica. Many families in the Nordics, especially those living in coastal regions, have personal connections to fishing and canning. In Stavanger, Norway, there is even a museum dedicated to the history of canning. Now, Fangst (meaning ‘catch’) is reviving the traditional art of canning seafood and fish.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Fangst

Denmark-based Fangst is the brainchild of Martin Bregnballe and Rasmus Østerlund. Both had worked in the Nordic food scene and taken part in its recent renaissance, but wanted to shift their focus from ‘land-based’ food to fish and seafood. They noticed that local seafood, though popular abroad, was not as widely consumed in the Nordics.

“We felt that people would eat more seafood if it was readily available and easier to prepare and serve,” says Bregnballe. “We noticed a growing trend for eating canned seafood in bars in Portugal and France, and in informal restaurants in Copenhagen and other European cities. We decided to rethink canned seafood from the North.”

Focus on Nordic ingredients

Fangst is not just Danish, it’s Nordic. The fish and shellfish come from the broader Nordic region: the Baltic Sea, Limfjorden in Denmark, the Norwegian Sea and the fjords of the Faroe Islands. The oil is also Nordic. “We took particular care to find exceptional oil,” says Bregnballe. “The easy solution would have been to import

a good olive oil from Southern Europe. However, we try to use Nordic ingredients wherever possible, so we wanted to find the best oil from the North.” The result is organic, cold-pressed rapeseed oil from Sweden and Denmark. “It has a buttery taste and colour, with a herbal note that matches the seafood flavours perfectly.”

Bregnballe feels Fangst has distinct Nordic flavour in their cans. The seafood is simple, without strong flavours or heavy spicing. The fish and shellfish speak for themselves, though sometimes enhanced by light beechwood smoking, flash grilling or a sprinkle of herbs.

A simple, enjoyable way to eat

In the Nordics, canned seafood has a reputation as a staple quick-lunch food –perhaps on rye bread with cucumber. But now, it’s become a Nordic version of tapas. It’s an informal approach to serving a shared meal, without hours of preparation. “A few different Fangst cans with sourdough bread, good mayonnaise, lemon, maybe a couple of salads and pickles: this is all it takes to create a light Scandinavian meal to share,” says Bregnballe. “You can also make an easy selection of smørrebrød, which are open-face sandwiches.” Fangst has many creative and delicious suggestions on how to eat their canned fish and seafood, on their website.

Design that whets the appetite

Fangst’s flavours are a journey through Nordic waters. Many customers have

tried salmon before, but few have experienced fish such as brisling, a local version of sardines. By highlighting regional ingredients and flavours, the company hopes to spread the love for Nordic delicacies internationally. That’s why Fangst believes that their product design plays such an important role. “We put a lot of effort into creating beautiful packaging in a distinct Nordic style,” says Bregnballe. “It’s inspired by Nordic nature, the rough waters, cliffs and coasts, dark forests – with a colourful flower or berry here and there. We know many people initially buy our cans for the packaging, to share at home as a gift.”

Respect for the environment

“Respecting nature is part of our mission,” Brengballe states. “Our fish and shellfish is either wild-caught by MSC-certified fisheries, or it’s from ASC-certified farms. We prioritise species that are practically CO2 neutral, such as mussels and small fish, but of course we have the iconic salmon too. Seafood in general, even including farmed fish, is recognised by most sources as a more sustainable food source than any meat.” Canning also has a very long shelf life at room temperature. It makes the risk of food waste extremely low. And there is no need to heat or cool the cans before serving. Fangst’s cans are 100 per cent recyclable when sorted and disposed of as metal. As well as being traditional, canning is both practical and environmentally friendly.

The future of Fangst

Fangst is now attracting attention from outside the Danish market, and though Fangst continues to be a small, independent company, their products sell in selected restaurants, bars and specialty stores around Europe, the US and Asia. In Denmark, visitors can buy Fangst products at Nordic Gastronomy in Copenhagen Airport, in their shop in the Meatpacking District in Copenhagen and in several other specialty stores. For the future, Fangst hopes to earn a place next to the best fish and seafood cans from Portugal and France; in shops, on menus and on tables around the world.

www.fangst.com

Instagram: @fangst.nordic

Facebook: fangst.nordic

LinkedIn: Fangst

Smørrebrød w. brisling.

FANGST at the airport.

Adding cold pressed rapeseed oil.

Team in front of shop.

S:t Eriksplan 1, 11320

Stockholm, Sweden

Instagram: portal_restaurant_bar

Web: www.portalrestaurant.se

From medical discovery to praised anti-ageing cream

HynE Beauty is a premium skincare brand offering unisex products made with fermented hyaluronic acid, manufactured in Sweden. Its rich anti-ageing cream and facial serum are pure magic for your skin.

By Malin Norman | Photos: HynE Beauty

Behind Swedish skincare brand HynE Beauty is a passionate entrepreneur collective based on the island of Gotland. It all started when Susanne Liljenberg, who is also one of the founders of interior design brand Granit, met a researcher from a pharmaceutical company. The experienced researcher had developed a face cream with hyaluronic acid, which showed an anti-ageing effect thanks to the moisturising and smoothing qualities of the substance.

“It was a real eye-opener. I wanted to test the cream and see for myself,” says Liljenberg, who shared the experience with her colleagues in the entrepreneur collective. Together, they requested to bring the product to the world under their own skincare brand, and so HynE Beauty was born. “We all loved the cream, and the response from customers and media has been fantastic!”

Moisture boost for the skin

In its pure form, hyaluronic acid has a special ability to bind moisture, approximately 1,000 times its volume, which makes

it extremely moisturising, according to HynE Beauty’s founders. Since hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the body – for example, in joints, eyes and in the skin – the biocompatibility is high. In fact, hyaluronic acid is often used for cataract surgery and in osteoarthritis treatments, and the same components that heal the body also help the skin keep its moisture and vitality.

HynE 24 Hour is a fantastic 3-in-1 moisturising anti-ageing product – a day cream, night cream and eye cream. Containing Swedish hyaluronic acid, it works together with the skin’s own molecules. HynE 24 Hour is convenient also when travelling, as you don’t need to carry with you separate creams for day, night and eyes. Another amazing product is HynE Raw, a sterile facial serum that works like a seven-day moisture boost.

Hyaluronic acid contributes to smoothening the skin and reducing fine lines and wrinkles, making the skin more elastic. “The skin loses hyaluronic acid and water as it ages, which leads to more wrinkles and a shrunken skin,” says Liljenberg.

“Because of its unique water-absorbing quality, hyaluronic acid is the ideal moisturiser. It works wonders!”

www.hynebeauty.com

Instagram: @hynebeautyproducts

Facebook: hynebeautyproducts

Most of us want to try a smaller sample before we go all in with a new product. You can order a 5ml sample of HynE 24 Hour for only 95 Swedish Krona. Go to HynE Beauty’s website for more info.

Marika Lagerberg, Lotta Schlingmann, Monica Werkelin, Per Lagerberg, Mark Ingelse and Susanne Liljenberg.

Photo: Per Schlingmann

The future of self-tan

A challenger in the beauty industry, COMIS combines nano-technology with a smart capsule system to simplify the application of skincare products. This includes its first product True Tan: an easy-to-use face spray which brings a glow to skin while nurturing it with natural ingredients.

The transparent and fast-drying formula has a ‘no stain guarantee’; your clothes and sheets are safe as the product contains no trace colouring. The colourless mist is lightly scented without any unpleasant self-tan odour.

“Each True Tan capsule has the optimum amount of liquid to cover your face, neck, chest and hands, delivering a gradual tan with a natural and even result after 24 hours,” say David Lauwiner and Dennis Ericsson, operational founders of COMIS. “Thanks to nano technology the liquid drops are miniscule which substantially improves the penetration of the skin. True Tan has a range of caring ingredients.”

These include active ingredients Dihydroxyacetone and Erythrulose (both organic), moisturising Glycerin and Aloe

leaf extract, cranberry extract to fight free radicals and brighten skin, and vitamin E to boost the skin’s UV barrier. All work together to give a natural result, every time.

“Our aim is to bring great products to savvy shoppers everywhere and to redefine what self-tanning is and who

By Emma Rodin | Photos: COMIS

it’s for. We want to show that beauty can be smart and sustainable, and that self-tanning should be a seamless experience for all complexions, genders and ages,” says Lauwiner.

Inspired to help consumers continue investing in quality rather than quantity, COMIS is set to launch more high-quality products for face and body in the future.

www.comis.com

Instagram: @officialcomis

Velvety smooth chocolate with beer

Recently, I met one of the pioneers in American craft beer, Pete Slosberg – founder of Pete’s Brewing Company and author of Beer for Pete’s Sake. I’ve met Pete before, in Argentina of all places, in 2015. Eight years later, on a bus ride to a beer event, we chat about beer and chocolate (as you do). “Have you ever had chocolate beer,” Pete asked. “Well…yes, chocolate stout and chocolate porter,” I said. “Yes! They’re excellent, aren’t they?”

Apparently, Pete is not only a curious brewer, he’s also founder of Cocoa Pete’s Chocolate Adventures and a believer that beer can be an excellent partner to chocolate. “When brewing, we found that cacao nibs can give great flavour to beer, such as stouts and porters, but you can also use those spent nibs to flavour chocolate bars,” he told me.

Smooth chocolate that melts in your mouth, with a hint of beery bliss. Pete also means that beer chocolate can be fantastic in sal-

ads. His simple recipe goes something like this: bitter salad leaves such as rucola, shavings of beer chocolate, some parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and pine nuts for crunchy texture. Sounds pretty good, right?

In the evening, after the beer event, our group had dinner in a taproom. For dessert, chocolate brownie and whipped cream, paired with imperial stout. “Too much chocolate,” I thought before I’d even tried. To my surprise, the brownie was not sweet but made with bitter dark chocolate, and the sweetness was actually elevated by the imperial stout. Yummy!

Pairing beer and chocolate is not new; brewers and beer writers have been doing it for years. And so can you! Try a Belgian Golden Strong Ale with white chocolate, or a Barley Wine with chocolate hazelnut cake, and Imperial Stout is a dream with dark chocolate truffles. Get going and see what’s your favourite combo.

What do we store in our belongings?

By Alejandra Cerda Ojensa

I was 11 when I went with my family to look at a house that my parents were considering buying. The little cabin was on the top of a hill and the owner, an old man, told us about all the beautiful things he had there. We walked up the hill, he opened the door and a wall of things hit us. I had never seen anything like it. The summer cabin was filled with things from the floor up, leaving less than a metre of free space from the top of the pile to the ceiling. We took turns standing on a stool to look over the mountain of stuff.

I recently listened to a documentary about hoarders and learnt about the struggles that come with extreme collecting. They mentioned the link between being afraid of not having money to eat and using things

as a safety blanket. Everything had a value that could quickly be turned into money if needed. Just in case.

It got me thinking about the first time I encountered minimalism as a lifestyle and ideology. The two men, Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, who collaborate under the name ‘The Minimalists’, both come from poverty, and when Joshua had to deal with the things his mom left after her death, he also had to deal with her traumas. There were memories on top of memories, unresolved problems, mixed with things that were worthless for other people. As I try to live a sustainable life inside and out, it got me questioning, what traumas do I store in the things I own?

By Malin Norman

Sustainability columnist Alejandra

Cerda Ojensa is a Swedish sustainability blogger based in Copenhagen. She loves sustainable fashion, plant-based food, natural wines and music.

Instagram: alejandracerda.co

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

JOSÉ GONZÁLEZ:

THE QUIET MUSICIAN ON A MISSION TO DO GOOD

With a career spanning two decades, more than a billion streams on Spotify and sold-out concerts around the world, José González is loved by the people. Currently on tour with his new documentary A Tiger in Paradise, he is also celebrating the 20-year anniversary of his first album Veneer, and performing songs from his latest album. The modest musician’s universal voice has a clear and consistent message: to do good.

By Malin Norman

In March, the new documentary A Tiger in Paradise premiered at CPH:DOX, Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival. This year, the film will be exclusively screened around Europe together with a unique live show where José gives insights into his world of ideas and performs songs from his most recent album Local Valley

Directed by Mikel Cee Karlsson, who co-directed The Extraordinary Ordinary Life of José González with Fredrik Egerstrand in 2010, as well as many of José’s music videos, the film is a surreal journey into the creative, sharp and

Photo: Hannele Fernstrom

Photo: Olle Kirchmeier

not only enrich your life, it will also train you to handle social contexts better.”

Optimistic view and humanism

In A Tiger in Paradise, we see him reading a list of catastrophic risks and existential risks to his partner Hannele in their kitchen. In person, however, it’s evident that José is a curious-minded optimist. Having earned a doctorate in biochemistry before leaving the lab in favour of a music career, he retains an inquisitiveness for evidence-based science and solutions.

When asked, he enthusiastically talks about effective altruism, a global movement that uses evidence and critical thinking to find the best resources and

to prioritise efforts to do good. Inspired by this idea, José donates parts of his income to a few selected charities. “If something is deemed 100 times more

effective, in my view it makes sense that this is what we should support.”

Ecomodernism is also an area that motivates the biochemist-turned-musician. These ideas are centred on using technology to reduce environmental impact while maintaining a high standard of living. “Economic growth and environmental protection don’t need to be at odds,” he explains. “Ecomodernism has the view that both humans and nature will be able to thrive.”

A self-proclaimed humanist, José also endorses secular humanism, which uses human reason and science as the basis of morality and decision making. “This means looking at what has worked

Photo: Hannele Fernstrom

The latest album with artwork by Hannele Fernström.

in the past and what is true. The starting point is always the people and how they can feel as good as possible; for instance, by embracing the need for rituals but without involving religion and superstition.”

Celebrating 20 years of Veneer

José’s first album Veneer was released in 2003, on the then-new record label Imperial Recordings, the brainchild of Joakim Gävert and Magnus Bohman. The album became a worldwide success with songs such as the much-loved Crosses and his cover of The Knife’s Heartbeats, which later featured in a TV ad for Sony Bravia with thousands of colourful bouncing balls on the streets of San Francisco.

Since the debut, José has had over one billion streams on Spotify, performed thousands of concerts, and had songs featured in TV shows such as The O.C., One Tree Hill and Scrubs, and Ben Stiller’s movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. In addition to four solo albums so far, he has released two albums with the indie rock band Junip. In fact, a song by Junip features in the documentary Wild Life – another film presented at CPH:DOX, which tells the story of eco-activist and founder of the North Face clothing brand Doug Tompkins’ efforts to save Chilean wildlife.

2023 is a busy year: apart from the film and Local Valley, José will also be touring

with 20 years of Veneer, and has started working on a new album. The anniversary is not important as such, he says, but is a great opportunity to meet the audience again after the pandemic. “20 years of Veneer is a bit nostalgic, but in a positive way,” he says with a humble smile. “I remember how much I enjoyed seeing some of my favourite bands perform their first albums, and hopefully people will feel the same about Veneer.” No doubt, they will.

For more info on A Tiger in Paradise, check out www.atigerinparadise.com

Follow José González:

Instagram: @jose.gonz.music

Twitter: @_JoseGonzalez_

Barbican Centre London, UK

Days Off Festival @ Philharmonie Paris, France

M-idzomer Festival Leuven, Belgium

Way Out West Festival Gothenburg, Sweden

Kalorama Festival Lisbon, Portugal

Cala Mijas Festival Malaga, Spain

Sydney Opera House Sydney, Australia

More dates added continuously, check www.jose-gonzalez.com for updates.

Photo: Leo Barradi

Explore a world of art surrounded by nature

The Nivaagaard Collection is for everyone looking to spend a day in the countryside diving deep into art history. Here, you can experience art from the Italian Renaissance, the Dutch Baroque and the Danish Golden Age, and witness an extraordinary story of a lost mother being reunited with her husband and son.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: The Nivaagaard Collection

Wander around the mesmerising museum and get lost in a world of art. Take a stroll under beautiful old trees and amongst abundant rhododendrons in the romantic garden. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a delicious cake. A day at The Nivaagaard Collection is balm for the soul and the mind.

“You get away from all the hustle and bustle, and you get to spend a day in the countryside surrounded by an astonishing art collection. The museum is intimate and cosy, which our guests appreciate. We have a lot of volunteers and locals working at the museum, which creates a sense of generosity. There is a very special at-

mosphere at the museum,” says musuem director Andrea Rygg Karberg.

Despite being nestled in a horticultural oasis, The Nivaagaard Collection is only 20 minutes from Copenhagen. Simply hop on a train from any of the major train stations in the Danish capital and walk the 800 metres from Nivå Station to the museum.

A tribute to Denmark and democracy

The Nivaagaard Collection was founded by landowner and politician Johannes Hage (1842-1923). Most of the art on diplay is his own private collection of works from the Italian Renaissance, the

Dutch Baroque, and the Danish Golden Age, which he donated to the state and made public in 1908. Johannes Hage’s parents were a part of the upper class during the Danish Golden Age, and the family was surrounded by renowned Danish artists. But there is dark side to Johannes Hage’s privileged life that became the driving force for his generosity.

“Johannes Hage fought in the Second Schleswig War in 1864. He lost a brother, and Hage was wounded. Denmark’s defeat by Prussia and Austria affected Hage and his whole generation greatly. In the aftermath of the war, Hage worked tirelessly to restore the pride of his country by, amongst other things, donating his entire art collection to the state,” says Rygg Karberg.

Johannes Hage never married or had any children. His art collection was his life’s work. He opened the muse-

Take a moment to reflect and just be between the blooming rhododendrons and old trees.

um in 1908 and, until his death in 1923, he welcomed visitors in the museum building right next to his manor house. Everything he owned apart from the art collection was gifted to Fonden Den Hageske Stiftelse, a charity dedicated to the support of people suffering from mental illness.

“He was a philanthropist. Coming from a privileged background he felt it was his responsibility and duty to give back to his country and society,” says Rygg Karberg. Hage was strongly influenced by his ancestors’ contributions to the rise of democracy in Denmark, and by the notion that democracy must be earned. Rygg Karberg believes there is still much to be learnt from this today.

“It is beautiful and inspiring. When Danish democracy was established, it was regarded as a privilege one should live up to. It was your responsibility to educate yourself and stay up to date with current events; something we could all learn from in today’s world.”

Witness a rare art discovery

If you love a little detective work mixed with a bit of mystery, you will want to pay The Nivaagaard Collection a visit and witness an absolutely extraordinary story. An on-going research project at The Nivaagaard Collection has resulted in the incredible discovery of a mother who was missing for almost 200 years from a family portrait painted by the prestigious Antwerp artist Cornelius de Vos (1584-1651) .

“There has always been something unusual and mysterious about this portrait. In the lower right-hand corner you can see part of a dress, which suggests that the original painting included a mother,” says Rygg Karberg. This inspired researchers to hunt for the missing mother and, lo and behold, at the end of 2022, the prodigal mother was found.

“It was a miracle. The painting was with an art dealer in Switzerland. When the dealer purchased the painting, the background was a dark brown colour, but after being cleaned and restored, the painting revealed a lady with brown eyes and facial features that match the boy’s

–and a background which is a complete match with the Nivaagaard portrait of the father and son,” says Rygg Karberg smilingly. It’s extremely rare for divided paintings from this era to be reunited, so this is not to be missed.

www.nivaagaard.dk

Instagram: @nivaagaard

Facebook: Nivaagaards Malerisamling

Current and future exhibitions

The Artists Colonies Hornbæk & Arild: until 11 June 2023

Alfons Åberg (Alfie Atkins): 21 June - 17 September

Cornelis de Vos, Double portrait of father and son

Cornelis de Vos, Portrait of a Lady.

J.L. Jensen, Flowers in a centrepiece on a marble windowsill with a beech branch, 1846.

Johannes Hage with his Rembrandt, ca. 1912

Creativity, change and community

Danish Dance theatre is entering an exciting era, with a new creative force at the helm. This spring, artistic director Marina Mascarell has joined the Copenhagen-based dance company. She brings with her a wealth of experience and a vision where inclusivity, community and creativity are at the core of both the company and its dancers.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin

Marina Mascarell has lived and worked in the Netherlands for the past 15 years, and whilst she has some experience of Scandinavia, Denmark and Copenhagen are new to her and her family. It is with evident enthusiasm that they are settling in Denmark to build a life and a future, as Marina takes on her new role. “I barely know the city, but I already love it!” she exclaims.

She does not (yet) speak the language, but Denmark doesn’t feel too foreign, thanks to her experience of working in Gothenburg and Malmö with Skånes Dansteater. “I was commissioned many years ago to do a piece at the Opera of Gothenburg about ‘Janteloven’,” says Marina. This typically Nordic topic of social humility

seems a suitable starting point for learning the inner-workings of Danish culture.

A creative space for everyone

“Part of our nature as people and dancers is always moving,” she says. Throughout her career Marina has lived in many countries and experienced diverse cultures, and movement has always been key in her life and in her work. As such, she recognises the theatre’s unique qualities: “Danish Dance Theatre is an institution with certain characteristics that allow creative vision to really come to life,” she says.

“I want to generate a space where everyone will feel inspired to create,” she says. Inclusivity is a crucial part of

her vision to build a supportive physical and creative space at the theatre. The company is a small and dynamic organisation with great capacity to transform and develop. “It is very unique, not only nationally but also on the European scene,” she continues.

Marina is keen to share contemporary practices with the nation and with the rest of Europe, and to grow the theatre in many directions. She considers the creative process to be the pillar of their work, and wants the company to facilitate and run workshops, talks, productions and lectures for the community. Another key focus for her in her new role is “producing less and paying more attention to what we do”.

“A dancer is not just a mover, but also a thinker and a teacher,” she says. Her goal is to create a working environment for dancers of all ages to feel creatively inspired to use their full potential. “There

Copenhagen Summer Dance 2022 The Hollow Men

Photo: Raphael Frisenvænge Solholm.

will always be a space for young dancers, but I want to normalise senior dancers in the company too, to show and celebrate different bodies,” she says, addressing the challenges of longevity in the dancing profession. This will be a space that is truly for everybody and for every kind of body.

Change takes time

“I want to establish support for the company and the dancers, to create regular national tours of new productions, and to collaborate with other institutions,” she says of her five-year plan. She en-

visages a creative space that will attract both choreographers and dancers, as well as using time and resources to develop educational programmes within the city of Copenhagen.

“I see the dance theatre as being an influential part of the local, national and European landscape,” she says. Change does not happen overnight, but Marina’s experience and expertise will allow her to slowly and organically implement new ideas. “Change needs both patience and love, not drastic measures,” she finish-

es. There is no doubt that Danish Dance Theatre is in the very best hands and on track for an exciting, creative and fulfilling future.

www.danskdanseteater.dk

Instagram: @danskdanseteater

Facebook: Dansk Danseteater

Experience Danish Dance Theatre

Copenhagen Summer Dance: A much-loved dance festival between city and harbour

Location: Ofelia Plads next to The Royal Playhouse

Date: 5-9 July, 2023

Copenhagen Summer Dance is a cultural event where you can experience world-class contemporary dance at the beautiful waterfront near Ofelia Plads. This year’s programme is spectacular, including dance films under the night sky, free activities, and drinks at the atmospheric bar. The event is Denmark’s largest dance festival, featuring a wide-ranging, outstanding programme, and dancers and choreographers from Ukraine, Sweden and the USA.

Tickets at www.danskdanseteater.dk

Portrait of Marina Mascarell.

Photo: Matevz Cebasek

Photo: Raphael Frisenvænge Solholm

Local charm, breathtaking nature and ‘hygge’

Explore rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, local cuisine and handicraft, and end the day warming yourself by the fire, beneath the incredible night sky. If you long for tranquillity and cosiness, a stay at Birkelund on Bornholm is exactly what you need.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Berit Hvassum and Nanna Balsby

Bornholm is a charming little Danish island in the Baltic sea famous for stunning landscapes, laid-back living, and world-class culinary experiences and heritage. It’s also a hotspot for artists, with a rich craft, design and ceramics scene and plenty of inspiring galleries and open studios to discover.

Now that you are convinced that your next getaway should be to Bornholm, where should you stay? Well, Birkelund is one great option – a quaint farmhouse from 1850 with five large holiday apartments built in the old stables. “Birkelund is the perfect spot for peace and quiet. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and al fresco living in a cosy atmos-

phere. This is what we Danes call ‘hygge’,” says Nanna Balsby, owner of Birkelund.

Disconnect to reconnect

Nestled between 24 hectares of forest, meadows and lakes, Birkelund has the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, allowing you to disconnect and recharge, while in fact being quite close to everything. Birkelund is conveniently located right next to Nordbornholm’s Golf Club. There are also a myriad of walks and bike trails to explore, and with just six kilometres to Gudhjem and 12 kilometres to Allinge, you can enjoy these lively harbour towns before returning to the quiet of Birkelund.

“No matter which season you visit Birkelund, there will be plenty to do and see. When you are not exploring the island, you can relax in the lounge chairs by the fire pit or gaze at the starry sky from the comfort of the conservatory. This is particularly beautiful in autumn and winter,” says Balsby.

Birkelund is constantly working towards a more sustainable future, by using re-

newable energy sources for heating and offering charging ports for electric vehicles, for example. You can also meet Birkelund’s two cows, Bisseline and Birkeline. Their grazing helps to increase biodiversity – and they are friendly too, so feel free to pet them!

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, wake up to birds chirping and wildlife at your doorstep, Birkelund might just be the place for your next getaway.

www.birkelund-bornholm.com

Nanna Balsby took over Birkelund in 2021. She is currently working with Løvtag Treetop Hotel to bring tree-top accommodation to Birkelund.

Photo: Drømmesteder

Immerse yourself in history

The Danish Museum for Supply and Sustainability offers a unique and immersive experience of how people used to live on a mill yard in rural Denmark

By Tina Nielsen | Photos: Thomas Skjold

Located in the area of Vendsyssel, in the far north of Jutland in Denmark, The Museum for Supply and Sustainability is actually made up of two individual museums –Dorf Møllegaard and Vildmosemuseet.

Dorf Møllegård is a mill yard that invites visitors to “feel history” as they explore the farmhouse and the authentic water mill and wind mill on site. It is the only museum in Denmark that allows visitors to experience both working mills on one site.

The complex gives a glimpse into how the residents and workers lived in times gone by.“Inside the farmhouse, visitors find themselves back in an authentic setting from the 1930s, with decorations and furniture preserved from those times,” says museum director Anne Provst. Visitors can move freely, touch items, explore drawers and cupboards, and it

is even possible to have tea and cake served in the living rooms.

While the water mill dates back to 1664, the rest of the mill yard was constructed in the years between 1870 and 1925. From 1922 to 1997, the watermill supplied the whole complex with electricity until the family moved out and Dorf Møllegaard became a museum.

New openings and exhibitions

In April this year, a new exhibition opened in the water mill, featuring interiors from 1850. This year also sees a major exhibition about the history of fertilisers, called SHIT – trash or treasure?

The adjacent Vildmosemuseet is currently under redevelopment in an old factory building, and the exhibitions showcasing the history of the local com-

munities around Brønderslev take the form of walking tours in the area while work is ongoing.

Dorf Møllegård is open to visitors from April until Christmas, and on event days the museum offers a wide range of activities for the whole family. Full information about opening dates and times through the year is available on the website.

Looking further ahead, there are new areas of the farmhouse due to open to visitors in 2024, including the bedrooms and the grain storage areas in the attic. Additionally, there are plans to add guided tours in English and German.

“We are continuously working on adding more elements to bring the period and the people who inhabited the mill yard at the time to life,” concludes Provst.

www.museummoss.dk

Instagram: @museum_moss

Facebook: Museum for Forsyning og Bæredygtighed

from the park’s many gardens, farmsteads and wild forests. “This has become ‘the place’ for Danish seaweed,” says Anneberg Kulturpark’s director Gitte Klausen. “We’re a stone’s throw from three different coastlines, which support a variety of species. Dansk Tang is based here – the first and only producer in Scandinavia delivering sustainable seaweed to restaurants.”

Beside dining out, visitors to Anneberg can immerse themselves in its unique culinary ecosystem by joining a seaweed safari, attending tastings of locally made beer and wine, and browsing the farmers markets for fresh produce.

Art, activism and a psychiatric museum

The three-floor Artist Wing of the main building hosts a community of 35 contemporary artists, known as Kunstnerfløjen, whose mediums include photography, jewellery, ceramics, painting, print, textiles and sculpture. There are regular exhibitions of their work at Anneberg, while the two on-site museums –the Cultural History Museum and the Psychiatric Museum – also offer a range of art and history exhibitions, as well as guided tours.

Anneberg Kulturpark advocates art for social change: “We’re establishing a first-of-its-kind sculpture park in collaboration with 17 artists, which will present a physical manifestation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” explains Klausen. “We are going through a green transition. We want to make a positive difference for future generations, to be a role model in our industry, and to craft a future-proof project that does not consume the earth’s resources, but gives something back.”

Wilderness, parkland and topiary gardens

In the warmer months, the natural landscape and parkland are gorgeous sights. “Lots of weddings happen at Anneberg,” says Klausen. “It’s a beautiful place to stay for longer. There’s so much to experience – the gourmet treats at MOTA, the unique coastlines and wilderness, the museums, art and history.”

As always, there’s a busy and diverse schedule of events that will run this summer, including markets and music, children’s activities, drinks and literature festivals. A soon-to-open shop will sell artworks, craft items and foodie wares produced by the burgeoning Anneberg community. Sankt Hans – the Danish midsummer festival – will take place in June, “and we have laid the framework for a jazz festival, opera and literature festivals, and a gravel-biking festival in the forest,” adds Klausen.

On 28 May, the Royal Theatre’s freeto-attend tour Kongelig Sommeropera (meaning ‘Royal Summer Opera’) will take place on Anneberg Kulturpark’s central green. Audiences of up to 2,500 have flocked to previous editions, which fill the long evenings with magical arias.

The beating heart of Anneberg

The community at Anneberg is growing fast, and there’s no more exciting time to visit than now. “What’s really unique is that we’ve grown organically,” says Klausen. Her energy is infectious. Indeed, her expertise in bringing people together and passion for the park’s cultural heritage is at the heart of the project.

“There are about 100 artists and professionals here daily, working together left, right and centre. There’s a palpable

synergy in the air that allows for truly interdisciplinary collaboration. Everyone at Anneberg came to experience this; to find a community. I didn’t search for anyone; they found me. I am grateful to be able to share it with everyone who visits.”

www.annebergkulturpark.dk

Instagram: @annebergkulturpark.dk

Facebook: AnnebergKulturpark

Visit: Annebergparken 26A, 4500 Nykøbing Sjælland

Explore life on the seas in an architectural gem

Visiting the museum that retells 600 years of Denmark’s maritime history, also happens to be an incredible architectural experience.

By Tina Nielsen | Photos: Rasmus Hjortshøj

An institution with a 100-year history, Denmark’s Maritime Museum originally opened in Kronborg Castle in Elsinore in 1915. Having moved to a new location in 2013, this year marks ten years in the unique new premises in a former shipyard.

According to head of marketing Marianne Friis Vindahl, the Maritime Museum is one for all generations. “We offer a total experience for a wide group of visitors, whether you know a lot about maritime life and history already, or have come to learn,” she says.

The setting of the museum is of unique architectural interest. The development was constructed eight metres underground within an old dry dock, which had previously been used as a shipyard for building and repairing ships. “Arguably the museums most important item, the dock, was re-imagined by star architect Bjarke In-

gels and a current exhibition outlines the vision and the creative process behind the project,” says Vindahl.

Another permanent installation, Our sailors, unpacks how sailors are depicted in pop culture by exploring their way of life and associated myths. This exhibition includes everything from films and comics to perfumes and fashion objects.

Maritime life during the world wars, and Denmark as a colonising state, are among the topics of other exhibitions. “We periodically show exhibitions on contemporary topics like globalisation,” explains Vindahl.

Surrounded by water on all sides, Denmark is perfectly placed to talk about maritime life and history. “We are a nation that has always been quite strategic in relation to the water on all sides – the

country is in easy reach of the rest of Europe to the south and north, as well as across to the UK and towards Russia,” says Vindahl. “We rely on the water and use it for trade, but it also makes us vulnerable.”

This summer, visitors can enjoy the special exhibition Haeneyo, Women of the Sea, about a fascinating South Korean community where elderly women free-divers are the breadwinners in society.

This summer, when Copenhagen is named World Capital of Architecture, the Maritime Museum will run architecture tours that teach guests about the museum building in the dry dock. In October, a new exhibition with a focus on ship models will open. “This is set to be very popular,” says Vindahl. “It will be an immersive exhibition that will bring to life what might seem like a niche area.”

www.mfs.dk

Instagram: @maritimemuseumofdenmark

Facebook: mfsdk

Photo: Sunok Kang

EXPERIENCESIN SWEDEN,2023

The best summer experiences in Sweden

Boasting 29 national parks, 100,000 lakes, 2,000 miles of coastline and leafy cities both rustic and modern, Sweden is an ideal destination for summer travels in Europe. As we enter May and June, the south of the country will see up to 18.4 hours of daylight, making this region one of the best for nature trips.

By Lena Hunter

But Sweden’s vibrant urban centres offer a surprising wealth of outdoor pursuits, too. In the 2022 Global Destination Sustainability Index, Gothenburg was ranked the number-one greenest destination in the world, with Stockholm close behind in seventh place. Home to world-class restaurants, diverse cultural scenes and

sustainable living surrounded by beautiful nature, Sweden’s larger cities combine serene green spaces with metropolitan energy in an atmosphere unmatched elsewhere in Europe.

So, on this curated tour of the best Swedish summer destinations in 2023, we’re

setting off with a spring in our step and a sense of adventure. We’re visiting a wholesome tavern in the Lidö archipelago, an enchanting medieval castle, fairytale forest cabins, a world-renowned photo gallery and a slew of dreamy horticultural and botanic gardens. Every spot on the list is a multifaceted holiday expe-

rience, offering more than meets the eye. You’ll find culture in nature, human stories in architecture, history in contemporary cuisine, and maybe even meet a wild moose. Read on to discover where.

www.visitsweden.com

Instagram: @visitsweden

Page 48. Photo: © Lori Nix & Kathleen Gerber, Botanic Garden

Page 54. Photo: Fedja Salihbasic

Page 60. Photo: Birgit Nilsson Museum

Norrviken Gardens:

A floral escape from the city

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the beautiful Norrviken Gardens outside of the city of Båstad. Renowned for its beautiful themed gardens, views and luxurious parties, Norrviken Gardens has a long and colourful history.

By Alejandra Cerda Ojensa | Photos: Norrviken Gardens

At Norrviken Gardens you will journey from the mystical to the minimalistic and colourful. The garden was founded over 100 years ago by only child Rudolf Abelin, who always dreamt of becoming a gardener.

Though his upper-class family disapproved of his career, Rudolf’s passion for flowers, plants, fruit trees and gardening brought him much success. In 1905, he won a competition in Paris for his apples, while today, the garden has become a beloved location for weddings.

At Norrviken Gardens, the gardening tradition is being passed to new generations. Fruits are no longer grown here; the focus has shifted to magnificent floral beds where classic aesthetics meets playfulness. Enjoy the blooming dove trees, cherry blossoms, elegant magnolias and beautiful hydrangea flowerbeds, arranged with a French-Baroque elegance. This year, a new garden deliciously named ‘The White Garden’ will open.

From June 16 to September 24, Micael Bindefeld’s garden exhibition will be on show at the gardens. Micael Bindefeld is well-known for hosting parties for celebrities ranging from music artists to the Swedish royal family, but he has always had a love for flowers.

“My first memories as a child are of gardening and cultivation and to be given this opportunity is nothing short of a dream come true. I’m pinching myself that I get to create an exhibition at Norrviken Gardens together with Sweden’s most talented gardeners. The green-

house itself is incredibly beautiful and it feels fantastic to have the exhibition there,” says Micael Bindefeld.

The inspiration for the exhibition comes from Micael’s childhood summers spent with his maternal grandparents, and from the sense of safety and warmth these memories evoke. This elegant garden exhibition is a must-see.

This summer, Norrviken Gardens has also invited the designer and flower enthusiast Hanna Wendelbo to create a garden together with the gardeners. Hanna Wendelbo is known for her beautiful illustrated floral-design wallpapers and prints.

Norrviken Gardens is a place where magic happens – a place where you are encouraged to indulge in generations of floral beauty. No matter what age you are, everyone can enjoy the gardens and summer events; including guided tours and concerts with artists such as Martin Stenmarck, Tommy Körberg and Smith & Thell. Don’t miss out on this Swedish west-coast paradise minutes from the city of Båstad.

www.norrvikenbastad.se

Instagram: @norrviken_bastad

A photographic experience for all of your senses

A visit to Fotografiska should be top of your list during your stay in Stockholm. Here, you can experience photography from some of the top photographers in the world, including local and up-and-coming talent. Fotografiska also offers Michelin Guide Green Star awarded food, with some of the best complementary views in town.

By John Sempill

Yet, there’s more than meets the eye at Fotografiska. Executive director Elin Frendberg explains why: “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 beginning.”

Speaking of the food they serve, the Michelin Guide Green Star-awarded plant-based kitchen received the highest rating by 360 Eat Guide in 2021, for their gastronomy and push for sustaina-

ble cuisine. “In our restaurant we serve a ‘no waste’, five-course menu, with local drinks,” Frendberg continues. “It’s a window into how we might eat in the future, with locally sourced ingredients in season.”

Fotografiska also boasts its own mussel farm on Sweden’s west coast, farmland on the outskirts of Stockholm, and a hydroponic farm in its own basement. “This means we can work locally and sustainably,” explains Frendberg. “We are very proud of our innovative team of chefs, with experience from restaurants such as Noma and Frantzén. A restaurant visit here will guarantee new ideas and perspectives. The menus are like tales, telling the story of Swedish produce, with a glimpse into the future.”

Renowned and emerging artists

New additions this season include the exhibitions In Bloom, with 16 renowned

photographers interpreting nature in new ways, and the acclaimed photographer Diana Markosian’s gripping exhibition Santa Barbara. “She displays her childhood move from Moscow to California,” explains Frendberg. “Another new and interesting element is a collage by Hungarian pioneer Moholy-Nagy. In the new project Emerging Artists, up-and-coming local talents are given a forum to display their own work.”

The Swedish photographer Alexander Wessely’s exhibition Kortex opens on May 12. This is his most extensive exhibition to date – well worth a look. And later this year, Fotografiska will be opening in Berlin, in addition to the Fotografiska in Stockholm, Tallinn and New York. Since you’re reading this article, chances are, you’ll either be in Stockholm or hoping to visit soon, so complete your visit to Fotografiska with a trip in the electric powered Fotografiska boat, taking you from Nybrokajen all the way to the harbour entrance. Can’t summer be here already?!

www.fotografiska.com

Instagram: @fotografiska.stockholm

@fotografiska.food

Facebook: @fotografiskasto

Photo: © Lori Nix & Kathleen Gerber, Botanic Garden

Photo: © Cig Harvey, Azaleas Pressing, Rockport, Maine, 2018

Have a bite at the Michelin Guide Green Star awarded restaurant. Photo: Niklas Nyman

A window to the past at Gunnebo House and Gardens

This 18th-century mansion on the west coast of Sweden is a true gem. People come here to escape the big city, enjoy Swedish fika or a great meal, have a company conference or get hitched. Traditions are strong here, and this summer, you’re invited.

By John Sempill

Gunnebo House and Gardens offers visitors a unique experience and a window into life in the 18th century. To start with, it belonged to one of Sweden’s wealthiest merchants. His name was John Hall and he wanted a house in which himself and his family could spend their summers. “He commissioned Gothenburg’s city architect Carl Wilhelm Carlberg to design the buildings, the interiors, gardens and parks,” says Anneli Stahre, head of marketing and sales at Gunnebo House and Gardens.

It was acquired in 1949 by the city of Mölndal and is now one of the most-visited destinations in the region of Västra Götaland. “Gunnebo House and Gardens is a preserved cultural site, and the main house is listed,” Stahre adds. “Looking at aerial shots from the 1950s compared to modern drone photography, it still looks as it did, while the surrounding areas have grown. This tells us just how important we are in the region, that we can offer a place for recreation and tranquillity.” The main

building and its surroundings have been carefully reconstructed by studying Carlberg’s original drawings, inventory lists and blueprints.

It’s no further than 15 minutes from Gothenburg and there is car parking, although arriving by bus is recommended. Stahre describes pursuits that include swimming in the surrounding lakes, hiking in the picturesque trails, having a soothing cup of tea or coffee, or lunch in the large outdoor dining area. “We have our own bakery and restaurant, which is part of our sustainable approach,” she continues. “This is very important for us at

ing gardeners, chefs and craftsmen come here for education, too. We want to educate the coming generations and make sure this knowledge doesn’t disappear.”

If you’re not looking to become a gardener or learn how to scythe, you might just be looking for the perfect conference facilities. In that case, Gunnebo House and Gardens has you covered. You can even get married here; the trellis, with its seven-metre ceiling height, is particularly popular. “To be able to come to the countryside is something we believe our visitors appreciate,” Stahre concludes. “As well as the sound of birds chirping, the smell of freshly baked bread and the scent of wood in the new orangery, of course.”

www.gunneboslott.se

Instagram: @gunneboslott

Facebook: @gunneboslott

Gunnebo. Aspir-

The perfect weekend escape is at Gunnebo House and Gardens. For opening hours and admission, see their website. Photo: Sören Håkanlind

Have a lunch with ingredients picked from the gardens at Gunnebo. Photo: Anna Hållams

There’s plenty of natural light in the orangery. Photo: Sören Håkanlind

Planning a wedding? Gunnebo House and Gardens is the perfect place. Photo: Agnes Öjfelth

100 years of biodiversity, balance and beauty

Close to nature but in the heart of the city, Gothenburg Botanical Garden is a place of true beauty. Founded in 1923, the green oasis has been presenting botany and biodiversity to the public for 100 years, and will celebrate its jubilee throughout 2023.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Gothenburg Botanical Garden

Unlike other gardens, botanical gardens have documented collections of living plants for research, preservation and educational purposes. As the natural habitats for plants change, botanical gardens are becoming more and more important to help protect endangered species. “Our job is simply to preserve, tell stories about and research the diversity of the plant world,” says Agneta Green, head of marketing and communication.

During this jubilee year, visitors can look forward to an abundance of flowering bulb plants, a celebratory picnic, art exhibitions in partnership with Konstepidemin –which is a centre for Gothenburg artists –and much more. The actual birthday on 8 July will be celebrated in grand style with a big party and the opening of the new Culture Gardens.

Spread out across 430 acres, Gothenburg Botanical Garden boasts 20,000 plant species and hybrids from over 130 countries

one of the largest collections of its kind in Europe – alongside one of the world’s greatest collections of bulbs and tubers. Add Klippgården, a spectacular waterfall, a lush herb garden, a calming Japanese valley and a multifaceted programme of events and exhibitions to this, and you will see why botany and horticulture enthusiasts are impressed.

“We have over 600,000 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 surrounds; over the years, the garden has become an indispensable supporting body to scientific research.

Gothenburg Botanical Garden also plays an important educational role as a place for children to learn about nature and how to respect it. And new greenhouses are in the works, which will present the

world’s fascinating biodiversity to future generations.

With so much botanical brilliance on offer, Gothenburg Botanical Garden is a great summer destination for adults and kids alike – particularly this year of jubilee celebrations.

www.botaniska.se

Instagram: @botaniskatradgarden Facebook: goteborgs.botaniska.tradgard

This species no longer exists in its natural environment on Easter Island - good thing you can spot it in a certain Gothenburg garden instead!

Recharge your batteries in archipelago paradise

In the middle of the Roslagen archipelago lies the idyllic island of Lidö. It’s a fantastic place for relaxed family holidays, conferences and dream weddings –or just somewhere to recharge your batteries and enjoy activities in the nature reserve, at your own pace.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Lidö Värdshus

The island of Lidö is a nature reserve in the middle of Roslagen. It showcases the best of the archipelago: untouched nature, coves and cliffs, trails for hiking, beaches for sun-bathing, a self-sufficient farm, a guest port with 50 berths, and a historic inn with an archipelago-inspired menu.

“Lidö is great for a holiday, enjoying good food, a conference or company event beyond the city buzz, or a dream wedding in a charming archipelago setting,” says Olle Tejle, who runs Lidö Inn together with Hugo Olofsson. “You’ll stay in an idyllic environment with proximity to the sea, where you can enjoy the tranquilli-

ty and find activities that suit the whole family or team.”

Zero Island and untouched nature

Lidö is one kilometre wide and three kilometres long, and offers some of the

northern archipelago’s most pristine untouched natural forests with rich bird life, including ospreys, pigeon hawks and sea eagles. Large parts of the island are uninhabited and perfect for hiking. “After just a minute or two, you’re completely on your own and can hit the beautiful trails,” says Tejle. “And if you want to discover the island’s cliffs and beaches, we have kayaks and canoes for rent.”

Together with Finnish company Neste, Lidö Inn started an initiative in 2018 to make the island fossil-free within a year. Results showed that emissions were reduced by 78 per cent. Lidö was nominated for the Swedish Tourism Award in 2019, a prominent prize awarded for new thinking and innovative approach that has contributed to the development of tourism.

Although the project has finished, Tejle explains that actions such as solar cells and waste management are still

Olle Tejle and Hugo Olofsson.

in place, and the team has continued with developments such as an outdoor gym. “The sustainability work continues, even though we’re no longer measuring specific results. We’re always trying to do things better and use as much as we can from the island and its proximity.”

In connection with the Zero Island project, the team set up a unique, self-sufficient cabin with room for two guests. The cabin is powered by solar cells and has a fantastic view of the sea. Two more Zero Cabins have since been built, also beautifully located. You can book either of the three cabins, with minimal impact on nature. This summer, Lidö also offers the opportunity to stay the night in one of four Lapland Cones that are currently being built. And there will be a new nature activity course available with fun activities, such as axe throwing and archery.

Historic inn with great restaurant

For island visitors, there are plenty of places to stay: the historic Inn, Pensionat Västergården, the Zero Cabins, glamping tents, Kärlekshuset (the Love Nest), and a number of small cottages. “Here at Lidö, there are options that fit most, whether you want to invite people to a party, hold meetings, or just relax.” Apart from the inn and its surrounding cottages, the island has a small private summer house and also a farm, Lidö Gård.

The pale yellow Lidö Inn is from the 18th century with a light and airy pavilion and an amazing view of the bay. The team that runs the inn has a genuine interest in food and service, and the restaurant is considered one of the nicest in the archipelago, with classic Swedish cuisine. Local produce is important and the menu is based on archipelago-inspired flavours. The inn’s bakery provides freshly-made bread for the restaurant and for sale in Oasen, a small eatery in

the guest port. Oasen’s terrace is ideal for enjoying a cold, crisp beer in the sun, perhaps a freshly baked pizza, or just an ice-cream or ‘fika’ with the kids.

Set your own pace on the island

At Lidö, visitors can set their own pace for the day, be that peaceful and calm, or more adventurous. Go for a walk in the forest, try kayaking or SUP, go for a swim in the sea or soak up the sun on the beach, or simply treat yourself to something nice to eat and drink.

The beautiful setting makes it easy to find inspiration and creativity, and to adopt a positive spirit. Wedding parties appreciate the intimate and familiar atmosphere and often book the whole weekend, staying from the pre-wedding gathering on Friday, to the wedding and party on Saturday, and enjoying breakfast before check-out on Sunday.

The peak season is mid-summer to mid-August, with accommodation, restaurant and guest port open to the public. During summer, Lidö Inn also hosts events such as live music and quizzes.

www.lidovardshus.com

Instagram: @lido_vardshus

Facebook: lidovardshus

A perfect Swedish summer at Läckö Castle

By Alejandra Cerda Ojensa

“We have a lot of guests interested in the past, and we collaborate with the Swedish National Museum to give our visitors an insight into Swedish history. This summer we are hosting a lot of exhibitions, ranging from sculptures to paintings. Läckö Castle is where history, nature and culture come together,” CEO Jan Malmgren says.

For children, there is a range of activities: treasure hunts, interactive tours in nature, as well as a chance to take a closer look at insects. If you’re travelling without children, you might be interested in delicacies from the local fishermen –Lake Vänern, the largest lake in the EU,

is known for its vendace roe – or why not stroll in the garden or go for a swim?

Benjamin Ingrosso, Tommy Körberg and Lasse Stefanz are performing at the annual Läckö Sessions, which attracts up to 5,000 people, in July and August. The opera Macbeth, premiering in July, will be performed in the courtyard five times a week until 5 August.

www.lackoslott.se

Instagram: @lackoslott

Adventurous excursions in Stockholm

There’s no better way to discover a city than by bicycle, if you ask Stockholm Adventures. They’re probably right, too. Joakim Malm founded Stockholm Adventures with the ambition to offer the best city tours and activities possible.

By John Sempill | Photos: Stockholm Adventures

It started with ice skating tours, before expanding to offering city tours by bicycle, kayaking – from their own dock – and Segway rides, plus adventurous wildlife outings and excursions in the glistening archipelago of Stockholm.

Customers come from all over the globe and each tour is in English, although the bike tours are also offered in German and Dutch. Groups are typically around ten people and, as long as you’re at least 12 years old, you’re welcome to book onto the sightseeing packages.

New for this season is an e-bike version of the popular Stockholm at a Glance Bike Tour. “We’ve seen a rise in demand here,” says Malm. “It’s the best way to discover a city and see the peo-

ple. Our motto is ‘start off with a bicycle tour, and then you’ll figure out what to do next.’”

For those of you looking for the full experience, you might fancy the Wildlife Safari. “Arrive in the afternoon and we’ll leave town, headed for our nature

reserve in our minivan,” adds Malm. “We’ll keep an eye out for moose, wild boar and discuss Vikings and IKEA. It’s an intimate nature experience. And we serve a traditional Swedish midsummer meal, with pickled herring and potato, and Swedish caviar. I also recommend the kayak tours in the archipelago – a fantastic full-day experience.”

www.stockholmadventures.com

Instagram: @stockholmadventures

Facebook: StockholmAdventure

Located in the Vänern archipelago outside Lidköping, Läckö Castle invites visitors to experience the perfect Swedish summer: organic produce, lunch at the café, walking paths, historic buildings and activities for the whole family. Come in your camper and stay at the campsite or check-in to the B&B or the hotel. The castle was built in the 1200s and features interiors preserved from the 1600s

Other tours include hiking trails.

E-Bike tours are particularly popular.

Photo: Thomas Strandroth

Photo: Fedja Salihbasic

Drottningholm Palace

The Royal Palace Tullgarn Palace

Strömsholm Palace

Gripsholm Castle

The Chinese Pavilion

Rosendal Palace

Gustav III’s Pavilion

Ulriksdal Palace

Rosersberg Palace

A stay in the wild with a difference

On the Hölick peninsula outside Hudiksvall in Sweden, surrounded by the sea and coastal primeval forest, is a new type of destination. After four years and 40 million SEK in investments, Hölick Havsresort & Spa is now ready for visitors to enjoy, and features a new ‘outdoor concept’.

By Marie Westerman Roberts | Photos: Hölick Havsresort

“Our vision was for a place for lovers of the outdoors, be they holidaying friends, families or company event groups. At the heart of the facility is our outdoor spa with pool bar and restaurant where you can enjoy a drink and a delicious meal from the grill,” says Clara Tilk, CEO of the resort. Nearby are several great hiking trails and beaches. You will find padel courts, an outdoor gym, adventure golf, beach volleyball, SUP and bike rentals.

Part of the experience is the accommodation. Choose between designer chalets with their own hot tubs, mini chalets or the popular tipi village. Tipis combine the ultimate nature experience with com-

fortable living. Here, you will wake up in a comfortable bed to the chirping of birds and have breakfast with a sea view.

Right on the beach you will also find the restaurant Sand & Kök, a great

THEIR SECRET GUITAR COLLECTION

place to enjoy good food and after-beach events. The resort provides pitches for caravans or tents, but it’s not a traditional campsite. “It’s definitely more glamping than camping,” Tilk explains with a smile. It’s the perfect destination for when you want to enjoy the wilderness but stay comfortable.

www.holick.se

Instagram: @holickhavsresort

Facebook: holickhavsresort

www.guitarsthemuseum.com

This space holds a guitar similar to the one Keith Richards used to play the Honky Tonk Women riff. And here’s one like the one Eric Clapton used for his solo in Layla. And the kind that Jimi Hendrix set on fire in Monterrey. But how in the world did these and hundreds more rare and priceless guitars from the 1950s and 1960s end up in Umeå and become Guitars – The Museum? Why aren’t they hanging in the MoMA in New York City, or in the Tate Modern in London? This is the story of how the Åhdén twins from Vännäsby managed to put together the world’s finest collection of vintage guitars surreptitiously, almost in secret.

Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 12:00-16:00

For other hours - Please email: info@guitarsthemuseum.com

It’s always tropical in southern Sweden

A tropical experience isn’t far away if you’re in Sweden this summer. A visit to Tropikariet will transport you to exotic surroundings with rainforests, wild animal encounters and memories to last a lifetime.

By John Sempill | Photos: Tropikariet

It began in 1994, when founder Magnus Lindqvist opened the doors to an indoor zoo he financed and built himself, and which had its genesis back in his school years – though he didn’t realise it then. Instead, he wanted to become an animal researcher, but couldn’t find the time required to sit still and study.

Only a few weeks in, he dropped out of upper secondary school and decided to open his own zoo – as you do. Today, almost 30 years and 30 staff members later, the facilities have grown. “Our anniversary is next year, in July 2024,” Lindqvist says. “It’s gone by quickly! Tropikariet can be described as a tropical, indoor zoo. And being indoors means we obviously can’t have animals like lions and giraffes. We have many free-roaming animals, everything from poison dart frogs, to bats, crocodiles and lemurs.”

Apart from the wildlife experience, Tropikariet offers education, research activities for the conservation of endangered species, facilities for smaller conferences and for birthday parties. “We have a lot of other things going on, other than the zoo area,” Lindqvist adds. “Once we even had a wedding here! But events are not our specialty – we have live animals here, and they need rest.”

Inside the zoo, visitors will experience something they’ve never experienced before. “At least not in Sweden,” he continues. “And our main goal is that our visitors leave with a better understanding of animals and nature. This is what we want to inspire at Tropikariet.” Asking him which animals leave the biggest impression, he tells us that the leafcutter ants and sharks are among the top candidates. “Those are the animals our visitors find the most fascinating.”

Before you leave for the day, you can pass by the souvenir shop, or have a coffee at the café. And looking ahead, Tropikariet are already planning future projects. An extensive renovation is already underway, which will see the shark tank double in size. “We have constant plans and visions,” Lindqvist says. “Now, we are focusing on renovating and making our facilities even better than before.”

www.tropikariet.com

Instagram: @tropikariethelsingborg

Facebook: @tropikariet

Founder Magnus Lindqvist, with a ring-tailed lemur.

A broad-snouted crocodile.

The panther chameleon is one of several species at Tropikariet.

Up close and personal with free-roaming creatures in Tropikariet’s walk throughs.

Meet the ‘Moose Man’

Sweden has the largest moose population per capita in the world, so there’s no wonder this mighty animal has become a symbol of Sweden and the north. Commonly called ‘The Kings of the Forest’, they roam almost the entire country.

carriages to be petted and fed. Additionally, Leffe will let you in on all the secrets. “Every moose has a different personality: some love attention while others are shy,” explains Leffe, who opened the park in 2007 with his wife Ilona.

Moose guarantee

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Gårdsjö Älgpark

visit in May or early June, if you want to see bull moose with giant horns, come in August. There is a moose guarantee in this park, so it’s up to you what you are curious about,” laughs Leffe. But before you decide to meet the moose man and his moose – make sure you visit the website to book your spot. “We are often fully booked, which is lovely!” enthuses Leffe.

www.gardsjoalgpark.se

Instagram: @algmannen

That said, it’s uncommon to bump into a moose in your everyday life. Instead, you have to turn to the top experts to get close to this marvellous animal – an expert such as The Moose Man. Leif Lindh, known as Leffe or ‘The Moose Man’, runs Gårdsjö Älgpark, located just 1.5 hours outside Stockholm.

Here, he welcomes visitors to meet his 13 moose and hosts intimate moose safaris where the animals come up to the

The park is open from May until December. “If you want to see calves, you should

Facebook: Gårdsjö Älgpark

YouTube: @algmannen

For a peaceful planet and a peaceful soul, visit Backåkra

In 1953, when Cold War tensions disrupted the world, the newly-established United Nations was working to maintain world peace. At its forefront stood one of Sweden’s most famous figures of the modern age: Dag Hammarskjöld, secretarygeneral for the United Nations between 1953 and 1961.

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Dag Hammarskjölds Backåkra

Dag Hammarskjöld was a symbol for peace and justice who valued equality, equity, freedom and unity. He was highly successful in his work as mediator, a role he wanted to bring with him back to Sweden; to Backåkra Gård in Skåne.

“Hammarskjöld bought the farm Backåkra with the mission to combine his work for peace-making with his love for nature. The ever-flowing fields and open horizons in the south of Sweden reminded him of freedom, and he hoped this would be a place for people to meet, talk and connect,” explains Gunilla Herdenberg, superintendent of Backåkra Museum.

Sadly, Hammarskjöld never got to see his vision through, as he died in a

plane crash in 1961. He bequeathed the farm to a local association, and it has since become just what he intended it to be – and more.

The Dag Hammarskjöld Museum

The museum is run by a foundation and exhibits his belongings and gifts from nations around the world, as well as art and furniture from his New York flat.

The farm is also a place for meditation, strolls in the beautiful nature, meetings and lectures, just like Hammarskjöld wanted.

To honour his love for nature, Backåkra Museum’s latest exhibition is inspired by Hammarskjöld’s work in en-

vironmental preservation. The exhibition Not to Encumber the Earth will be open in June 2023.

www.dhbackakra.se

Facebook: Dag Hammarskjölds Backåkra

Meditation Place.

Farm.

Tranquil space to breathe, deep in Nordic nature

Naturlogi is the ideal space for anyone who needs a relaxing stay; away from all the noise and commotion of everyday life. The small resort is located in the Swedish county Östergötland and provides comfortable, beautiful stays in small cottages encircled by deep forest, rolling landscapes and serene relaxation.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Fotograf Engström

Naturlogi was founded by sisters Josefine Espenkrona and Linnéa Salbark, who wanted to make the most of the forest on their farm. “We wanted to run a sustainable business where we could allow the forest to continue growing for future generations, and to share that extraordinary calm that comes with it. The forest is right on the doorstep and we provide a premium and uncluttered nature experience. That’s why we’ve kept the cottages fairly small, but equipped them with all necessary comforts,” says Josefine Espenkrona. Four modes of accommodation are available, ranging from Lyan, a comfortable windbreaker for those who want to try outdoor sleeping, and the small hut Vistet with a double bed, to their forest suite with a heated outdoor bathtub. All rooms feature a private fire-

place where prepared food packages can be cooked over the open flames – a fun and engaging culinary activity.

“We strive to keep everything as local and connected to our surroundings as possible. The food is locally sourced, the lamb comes from our own farm, the vegetables come from farmers in the area, the bread comes from a baker nearby. All activities foster a sense of connection to the present and help to detach from everyday stresses,” says Espenkrona.

There are plenty of fantastic natural trails on the doorstep and natural reserves a short drive away. For those who wish to deepen the connection even further, a certified guide in nature bathing can help to open up all your senses to the tranquil-

lity of the surrounding nature according to the old Japanese tradition Shinrin-Yoku. If you’re looking for a way to get back to basics in comfort, Naturlogi might well be the answer for you.

www.naturlogi.se

Instagram: @naturlogi

A place embedded in nature.

Comfortable stays in the midst of the forest. Stay in comfort.

An immortal voice: the legacy of Birgit Nilsson continues to inspire

Birgit Nilsson was the Swedish girl from Skåne who captivated the world when she became one of the biggest classical opera singers of the 20th century. Her legacy lives on thanks to her phenomenal voice but also the impression she made with her radiant personality. The Birgit Nilsson Museum, located in her old family home, showcases her life in fascinating exhibitions and hosts events that encourage the next generation of classical singers to believe in their craft and intrinsic worth as artists.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Birgit Nilsson Museum

Birgit Nilsson was born in 1918 in Bjärehalvön, an idyllic part of Skåne in Sweden with a magnificent view over the Kattegat swells, surrounded by lush nature and billowing hills. Nilsson had a dream from an early age to become a singer and started performing in the one location where she could express her

Birgit Nilsson on the cover of Tosca in Rome, 1966.

desire: Västa Karups Kyrka, the local church. At 23 years she was accepted into the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, setting in motion a monumental career on the international stage.

Her performances have included soprano roles such as Aida, Turandot, Tosca and Salome, and she is best known for her performances in the operas of Richard Strauss and Richard Wagner. The family house has been turned into a museum to commemorate her life and to benefit the musical community by promoting new talent.

Puccini – love and art

This year, the museum’s theme is Puccini - love and art. Exhibitions under this theme will celebrate Nilsson’s huge admiration of the opera Tosca and others by the Italian composer Giacomo Puccini. The museum will host an exhibition in honour of the theme with unique media material, photographs, costumes from her performances and other memorabilia that will take the visitor through her outstanding career and involvement with the Puccini operas.

There are more than four hours of listening material and unique documentation. The intimate guided tour in the farmhouse, for groups of 12 at a time, allow each visitor an undisturbed experience, led by expert guides. “You will find yourself inside the house where

Nilsson grew up, and in the surroundings that she loved deeply throughout her life. The café, Stallkaféet, offers cakes made from Nilssons own recipes; the whole place is simply steeped in her spirit, and many of our visitors say it’s the best museum experience of their lives,” says Gitte Lindström Harmark, CEO of Birgit Nilsson museum.

The Birgit Nilsson Days

From 27 June, the annual theme and the museum season will build up to The Birgit Nilsson Days, an event that takes place from 6-12 August. This year, the event will culminate in an epic performance of Tosca by a choir over 100 strong, and a symphony orchestra conducted by Pier Giorgio Morandi. Lead singers include top international soloists Joyce El-Khoury, Michael Fabiano and John Lundgren, but also several Swedish singers such as Anton Ljungqvist, Rickard Söderberg, Fredrik Zetterström and Anders Lorentzon.

The week will commence with the Birgit Nilsson Masterclass where singers are invited to learn from Anne Sofie von Otter during four intense days, leading up to a closing concert at the Birgit Nilsson Concert Hall, Kulturhuset Ravinen, Båstad. “Tosca will be a grandiose showcase of local, national and international talent, an epic tale in beautiful surroundings. Nilsson was very fond of this opera and to do it on her home

ground feels extra special,” says Lindström Harmark.

A powerful legacy

The Birgit Nilsson scholarship, awarded to young and promising singers every year on Nilsson’s birthday on the 17 May, turns 50 this year, and the anniversary will be celebrated with a special ceremony featuring previous winners. The scholarship was established to encourage and support the next generation of young Swedish singers.

The Birgit Nilsson prize is another contribution to the world of classical music, awarded to artists and institutions who have made a significant impact on the perpetuation of their art form. The prize is awarded every three years and consists of a prize sum of one million US Dollars. “Nilsson became friends with everyone. She knew what she wanted, her worth and the extent of her talent, but she remained humble and connected with her roots. Her spirit lives on and still has an enormous impact on the next generation of singers and the musical community. Her spirit lives on and continues to have an enormous impact on the musical community, helping the next generation of singers to achieve their dreams,” Lindström Harmark concludes.

www.birgitnilsson.com

Instagram: @birgitnilssonmuseum

YouTube: Birgit Nilsson Museum

Costumes from Birgit Nilssons performances.

Unique, handmade pieces inspired by Nordic nature

Design by Carta features a varied and exciting line of handmade ceramic, glass and jewellery products at affordable prices. The Oslo-based designer Maryam Amini has become known for her unique pieces inspired by the beautiful and diverse Nordic nature.

By Maria Vole | Photos: Design by Carta

Across her work in ceramics, glass and jewellery design, Maryam’s distinctive style runs throughout. Among her modern and expressive designs, you’ll find a range of homeware items such as plates, bowls and mugs, as well as exquisite jewellery pieces like earrings, necklaces and rings.

“I’ve always loved design and interiors, and I’ve worked with these things for as long as I can remember,” says Maryam. “But Design by Carta, my own brand built

on my love of ceramics, jewellery and glass, began to take shape about eight and a half years ago.”

Spending most of her working hours at her workshop at Tåsen on the west side of Oslo, Maryam appreciates the thriving art and design scene in Norway’s capital.

“Oslo is a very exciting place for handicraft and design. There’s such a huge mix of products and a lot of places to go and things to see,” she says. “I think it’s wonderful how creatives can inspire and

be inspired by each other. People think it’s fun to share, to show, to learn and ask –I love to share my own techniques with others and learn new things.”

Maryam is unafraid to experiment and try new things with her work. After many years working with ceramics, metal and glass, she is well versed in creating the expression she’s looking for – and she’s always curious to learn more. “When you’ve mastered the technique, there’s more space for exploration and discovery,” Maryam says.

Finding inspiration in the wonder of the natural world

For Maryam, the various colours, forms and textures in the magnificent Nordic nature and landscapes are a huge

Design by Carta’s breakfast plates featuring traditional Norwegian knitting patterns are a particular favourite among customers.

source of inspiration for her work. She has always loved spending time outside exploring landscapes and the natural world around us.

“The Nordic nature is distinctive, and there’s so much to see in different areas in Norway. It’s rough, it’s mysterious, it’s beautiful and extremely changeable by the seasons. I find the organic aspect of this so fascinating and inspiring,” says Maryam. “Even a small leaf is beautiful and inspiring to me: its shape, the way it transforms from season to season and so much more.”

Maryam hand-shapes most of her ceramics, which is a long and slow process requiring plenty of patience. Though Maryam’s work is deeply technical, she also needs to be creative and flexibile. “I work very intuitively, so even if I have an idea, the end result may not be what I had intended at the start. Working with challenging materials like ceramics and glass, things don’t always go to plan,” she says.

Unique, limited edition, handmade pieces

All of Maryam’s design pieces are unique, and since her creation process is intuitive, most of her products are one-ofa-kind. “I love to design and try to avoid making several of the same pieces,” she

says. “I think it’s cool that there’s only one of these designs in existence, and when working with materials such as glass the way I do, it can be impossible to make two identical pieces.”

Maryam’s creativity and passion for her work shines through in her beautiful and varied creations. “I love Norwegian arts and crafts and our long history of crafting traditions such as knitting and embroidery,” Maryam says. “I really enjoy combining things you might not expect to see together – like ceramics and traditional knitting patterns.” This willingness to think outside the box leads to exciting products and unexpected design combinations, such as Maryam’s popular ceramic breakfast plates fea-

turing knitting patterns that will be familiar to every Norwegian.

Maryam has long been focused on mindful consumption and making environmentally-friendly choices in our day-today lives. Design by Carta is a certified Norwegian Made producer, which recognises sustainable, high-quality products made in Norway. “Ethical production and making sustainable products that will stand the test of time is very important to me”, says Maryam. “I was so happy to be accepted as a member of Norwegian Made – it represents not just my brand but who I am as a person.”

www.designbycarta.no

Instagram: @design_by_carta

Maryam’s beautiful leaf-inspired enamel earrings are the perfect addition to any outfit.

Enamel earrings inspired by the colours, shapes and textures in Nordic nature and landscapes

Glass necklace.

Maryam’s ceramic pieces, such as these milk/cream mugs, are one-of-a-kind due to her intuitive creation process.

Much more than a children’s boutique

“I just love to see the joy on children’s faces when they enter my little boutique!”

Tina Bernholdt Rygh-Amundsen doesn’t have to think twice in explaining why, of all stores, she chose to open a children’s boutique.

By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen | Photos: @eg_ser_deg

Sirkus Rebell is a must-visit in the small Norwegian town of Gjøvik. RyghAmundsen has poured her passion into the venture, establishing in just three years not only a boutique and web-shop, but a little institution – a place for parents to stop by for a friendly chat, to change a diaper or feed the little ones.

She also collaborates with nearby businesses and individuals, from yoga studios and cafés to artists. Moreover, the playroom in the boutique is very popular with children. “Everyone heads straight for it when they come,” Rygh-Amundsen laughs. Her outgoing personality has created a special relationship with customers, young and old alike. “I’ve followed some of the children in this town from before they were born,” she says. She recalls that one expecting mother came to her boutique just after her very first ultrasound, and smiles at the

memory of a magic moment shared with a young mother.

Quality clothes and toys

Sirkus Rebell has a beautiful selection of clothes, toys and equipment for children aged 0-16. “I try to acquire clothes and toys that you don’t find everywhere. As far as possible, I focus on organic materials and items that are designed in Scandinavia and in Europe,” Rygh-Amundsen says, pointing to a Ukrainian-engineered 3D puzzle called Ugears, that she is one of the few retailers in Norway to sell.

Regardless of the product, quality is a priority at Sirkus Rebell. Rygh-Amundsen selects clothing made with long-lasting craftsmanship, so that it can be passed on to younger siblings when it gets too small. Elsewhere, she stocks unique designer labels, as with her large selection of Dolly by Le Petit Tom´s dresses. “I fo-

cus on wooden toys and try to steer clear of plastic as far as possible,” she says.

Those planning to travel to Gjøvik are warmly invited to visit Sirkus Rebell: “I’ll be happy to see you,” says RyghAmundsen with a smile. In addition to the physical shop, she also has a webshop, so even those unable to reach the beautiful Norwegian town can get a little piece of Sirkus Rebell in their mailbox.

Instagram: @sirkusrebell.no Facebook: Sirkusrebell.no

Sirkus Rebell is a must when visiting Gjøvik.

Something for all princesses.

Most toys at Sirkus Rebell are wooden.

A taste of history

Some products just seem to embody the soul of a country. For Norwegians, aquavit is considered such a product.

By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen | Photos: Atlungstad Distillery

This clear, strong liquor, made of potatoes and aged in oak barrels, is perhaps the most Norwegian of all drinks. Traditionally it is consumed at lavish Christmas dinners, where the boozy aid helps one to cope with hearty Norwegian cooking. But aquavit is much more than a digestive – it is part of a centuries-old culinary history.

In an effort to preserve that tradition while creating new, exciting and modern products, new Norwegian distilleries have come forth over the past few years. Few of them, however, can boast the heritage that Atlungstad Distillery can.

Atlungstad Distillery is located in the oldest functioning distillery in Norway, which was officially recognised as industrial cultural heritage in 2013, and produces a range of different aquavit blends for different occasions, as well as their own gin. All products are made from Norwegian potatoes and predominantly use Norwegian-grown spices, and most of them

are aged in oak barrels for between six months and five years.

“In Norway, aquavit used to be only a Christmas drink, but this has changed in recent years and aquavit is now widely used in cocktails,” says Romain Jourdan, manager of the Atlungstad spirit brand, explaining that aquavit is very similar to gin and that bartenders around the world are experimenting with it.

In accordance with Norwegian law, in Norway, the aquavit from Atlungstad is sold at the state-owned Vinmonopolet, not in regular shops. Perhaps the best way to try it, however, is by paying a visit to the production site.

Atlungstad Distillery is supremely located on the shores of Mjøsa, a beautiful lake in eastern Norway, and offers a wide variety of guided and tailored tours that teach visitors about how aquavit is made. These can be paired with snacks or full meals at the acclaimed on-site restau-

rant, where dishes are made with local produce and either use aquavit as an ingredient, or are accompanied by a little glass of aquavit – or two.

There is a beach and a dock at Atlungstad –a beautiful place to enjoy the sun during a visit to the distillery. Atlungstad Golf is also nearby, where guests can try out the courses and even stay overnight to make the most of this idyllic area.

The summers at Mjøsa lake are renowned, but the distillery remains open during the enchanting snowy winters, too. “We are a destination to be enjoyed all year round,” says Andrea Jervidalo Jensen, manager at Atlungstad Distillery.

www.atlungstad.com

Atlungstad Aquavit No1 is now available at duty-free in Norwegian airports.

Atlungstad Distillery is a popular destination in the summer.

Oak barrels where aquavit is aging.

Sustainable Norwegian design to help kids sleep safely

From her workshop at her family’s farm in Porsgrunn in Telemark, Tiril Møglestue creates handmade products making sure little dreamers can sleep safely. “It’s so important for kids to feel safe in their beds and get quality sleep at night,” says mother-of-four Tiril.

By Maria Vole | Photos: Sengehesten

‘Sengehesten’ means ‘the bedhorse’, and is a fun and creative twist on traditional bedrails designed to keep kids from falling out of bed while they’re sleeping. These simple, playful designs don’t just offer protection against falling out of bed –they could also make changes in sleeping arrangements easier to deal with.

“The transition from sleeping in a cot to sleeping in a bed can be scary for kids,” says Tiril. “Having them be part of picking out their bedhorse can be a fun way to ease the process and make them feel safe in their new bed.”

With a background in furniture-making and interior design, Tiril began making the bedhorses after struggling to find

high-quality bedrails in fun designs for her kids in Scandinavia. She was one of 20 emerging designers selected to display their products at the Nordic interior-design trade fair Formex in Stockholm, in January 2023. Sengehesten has also been awarded membership to Norwegian Made, a branding scheme for sustainable, high-quality products made locally in Norway. “I want this to be a durable product that lasts and can be passed down for generations,” says Tiril. “Eco-friendly practices are important to me, and I reuse materials as much as possible.”

www.sengehesten.no Facebook: sengehesten.no

Sengehesten offers a range of fun animal designs, and the customer can select the colour they prefer.

Tiril’s newest product is the popular rainbow design which she first created upon request from customers.

The dachshund was the first of Sengehesten’s varied designs.

The good, the bad and the probiotic

We have all, at one time or another, had issues with our stomachs. It could be anything from a 24-hour bug to chronic disease, but it greatly affects our lives. Many of us take our gut health for granted but, as experts warn that 80 per cent of your health starts in the gut, it might be time to start investing in it.

By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Den Lille Juicefabrikken

Gro Furset is a nutritional therapist and former nurse. Good health and nutrition have always been important to her, which is why she started her own company in 2014 making hydraulically pressed juice. This method of juicing preserves the nutrients, enzymes and taste.

From juice to bacteria

The business has now expanded and she makes pre- and probiotic supplements and skincare products. The supplements come in two variants, a fermented herbal drink with live bacterial culture and strains, and a fermented drink with live good bacteria strains for the skin and the gut.“Prebiotics are food for the gut. FOS (Fructo-oligosaccharides) are plant sug-

ars that support the probiotic and the intestine,” Furset explains. “Probiotics are the live lactic acid bacteria.”

Research by Harvard Medical School

has found that probiotics can improve digestion and help the intestines to better absorb nutrients from food. They may also improve immune system function and protect against bad bacteria, which might cause infections. It is also important to take probiotics when taking antibiotics. While the antibiotics kill all the bad bacteria that makes us ill, they also kill the good bacteria, causing an imbalance in the gut. This often leads to digestive problems and different diseases.

Protecting our skin

But it is not just our gut that can benefit from some probiotics. “Our skin has millions of bacteria,” says Furset. “It is therefore only natural that your skincare range also contains pre- and probiotics to harmonise with your skin.”

Furset aims for her ingredients to be as local as possible. Many come from the valley Setesdal, in Southern Norway, and all are from wild, natural and organic ingredients. The skincare is one of a kind, made in Norway.

This business is more than just a job –it is a passion. “I am passionate about helping others,” Furset says. “To help people get healthy and build a better everyday life.”

www.denlillejuicefabrikken.no

Instagram: @denlillejuicefabrikken

Facebook: denlillejuicefabrikken

Fermented herbal drink with pre- and probiotics.

Pre- and probiotics for the skin and the gut.

Whole plant, artisan skincare with probiotics.

An old-fashioned and sustainable taste of Norway

The Nordics are rich in small food businesses that work with local, sustainable ingredients and traditional production methods. Some, like Stolte Anton, have been around for generations.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Stolte Anton AS

Located in Eidsdal, along the winding west coast of Norway, Stolte Anton began in the 1920s on the family farm of Anton Nydal. His focus was orchard fruits, vegetables and berries. Re-established by two of his grandchildren in 2018, the company was taken over by Kirsti Indreeide in 2022. Production and sales are now handled directly on Indreeide’s property, where customers can buy jams, jellies, chutneys, canned plums and pears, all made using local materials that follow traditional recipes.

Indreeide, who grew up in the area and has been interested in farm history and food culture for many years, feels Stolte Anton’s products are typically Norwegian. “We use fruits and berries that can be grown in our climate. The recipes incorporate classic Norwegian preservation methods that give you an ‘old-fashioned’ taste,” she says. “We have a large product range: blackcurrants, raspberries, gooseberries, rowanberries, rhubarb, apples and pears. In addition, we make chutney from locally-produced onions, beetroot, garlic and plums.”

Indreeide believes that one of Stolte Anton’s main strengths is its variety. “We have products that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and with a range of meals. The jams, jellies, and chutneys go deliciously with bread or biscuits. They also complement a cheese platter or work well as a condiment with a stew, for example. Throughout the autumn, we make

spiced products that highlight Christmas flavours for the holidays.”

Indreeide’s favourite product is the currant jelly: “Currants fascinate me. They always produce a good crop and go well with breakfast as a jelly, juice or for dinner with well-seasoned meat and strong cheese or cured meats.” Stolte Anton is renowned for its blackcurrant jam, which is popular all year round.

Besides at its farm shop, Stolte Anton’s goods are available in local grocery shops and farm outlets around Norway, as well as in local restaurants and as company gift packages. “Stolte Anton is a small company, so the Nordic market is currently large enough for us,” Indreeide says. “However, I think our products could fit well in a number of specialist shops abroad, for example at KaDeWe in Berlin, where they also promote Norwegian fish, cheeses and other specialties.” For a true taste of Norway, Stolte Anton’s delectable preserves provide just that.

www.stolteanton.no

www.hanen.no

Facebook: Stolte ANTON As

Kirsti Indreeide, the owner of Stolte Anton.

Stolte Anton’s Jams and Jellies.

Eidsdal, Norway, The Home of Stolte Anton.

UNWIND THE MIND

Just 20 minutes from Stockholm city centre you will find a peaceful place to unwind your mind and gather new energy. In a setting inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, Yasuragi offers an extraordinary experience for all senses. At the heart of Yasuragi you will find the Japanese bath house. Welcome to the only Japanese spa hotel in the Nordics. Book at yasuragi.se

Hotel of the Month, Sweden

Feel the archipelago harmony

Fancy a taste of life by the sea? Head to Tjörn island on the picturesque west coast of Sweden. Here you’ll find Salt & Sill – home to the country’s first ever floating hotel and a renowned seafood restaurant, both inspired by the small island’s rich fishing legacy.

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Salt & Sill

Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Salt & Sill sits neatly on the edge of a jetty, inviting a sense of oneness with the sea. Here, where nature is close and the pace is slow, is a place ideal for recharging and enjoyment.

“We offer a 360-degree experience of food, drink and living, all year around. Some visit us to eat, others stay over, and some come to just soak up the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings,” says manager Jonas Espefors.

Sleeping on the sea

Although parts of the Salt & Sill establishment have been running for over 20 years, the hotel is a fairly new addition. Building a hotel completely afloat is not

an easy task. What is though, is seeing the allure this has added to Salt & Sill’s overall offering.

“You really can’t get any closer to the water,” says Espefors. “In fact, you can dive straight in from outside your room while enjoying the views of the archipelago and

sea. It’s an unusual setting which is easy to fall in love with,” he adds.

Inside the hotel, you will find bright and modern rooms designed with Scandinavian simplicity at heart, yet influenced by the fishing community, too. This combination makes for homely rooms that encourage relaxation, with the waves underneath gently rocking you to sleep.

A meal to remember

When it comes to Salt & Sill’s restaurant with the same name (‘sill’ being the Swedish word for herring), there’s plenty to eat and plenty to drink.

The restaurant’s focus is on high-quality fish and seafood, mostly sourced from the surrounding waters, and herring is the star of the menu. Indeed, eating herring is one of Sweden’s oldest food traditions. It can be enjoyed in countless of combinations, often with seasonal specialities for occasions such as summer and Christmas.

“Because this area has ties to the fishing industry dating back to the 15th century, it has always been part of our ambition and responsibility to share this legacy and grow visitors’ interest in food and flavour,” explains Espefors. “We want them to enjoy and appreciate the food in equal parts.”

The menu itself features classic dishes with a twist, attracting fish fanatics from near and far. And if you prefer meat or vegetarian choices? Rest assured that the menu has those covered, too.

Activities around the island

When you’re not eating or sleeping, there’s lots to keep you busy and plenty of pretty walking trails to discover. Those who want the full sea experience can

rent kayaks and stand-up paddle boards or go on boat tours with Salt & Sill’s own fishermen. During lobster season in the autumn, it is also possible to accompany local lobster fishers on their ventures.

Staying on land? Try a cooking class to develop your kitchen skills or enjoy a soothing massage. You can also spot seals from one of the many beaches and cliffs around or rent bikes to discover the area on wheels. For a dose of culture, there is a dedicated museum for aquarelle paintings nearby, as well as outdoor art dotted around.

Time to chill

One of the most popular activities at Salt & Sill is a visit to S/S Silla – a catamaran

which was built purely with relaxation in mind. “There is a sauna and spa lounge inside, while the outside features a jacuzzi and sun deck,” says Espefors. This catamaran can be used by both hotel guests and other visitors and is an experience not to miss – whatever the season.

About an hour’s travel from Gothenburg, Salt & Sill is easily accessible for foodies and nature lovers alike. Although the hotel and restaurant are open year around, a visit during the warmer months ahead is ideal (and recommended) if you’d like to experience the true beauty of Swedish summer on the west coast.

www.saltosill.se

Instagram: @saltosill

Pork belly with spring onion salad, kimchi, ssamjang, sesame oil with salt, lettuce for wrapping and pickled radish.

Restaurant of the Month, Norway

KOGI: an authentic taste of Korea in Bergen

For true foodies, no visit to Bergen would be complete without experiencing KOGI. Since opening its doors in 2020, Norway’s first Korean BBQ restaurant has quickly become a huge hit and, thanks to its immense popularity, a second location is slated to open this spring.

By Maria Vole

KOGI opened its doors in July 2020 as the only Korean BBQ restaurant in Norway. Located in the colourful city of Bergen, this modern eatery is in Nygårdsgaten, just a 15-minute walk from central sights such as Fisketorget and the historic Bryggen.

The restaurant’s story began when Miae Hwang, owner and head chef at KOGI, opened a food truck serving Korean fried chicken at Fisketorget, the historic fish market in the centre of Bergen, in December 2019. Having moved to Norway in 2009, Miae had struggled to find good Korean cuisine and missed the delicious food from home.

“I noticed that a lot of people were interested in Korean food and culture, so I thought it was the right time to start a food truck,” Miae says. She was blown away by the response, and the food truck quickly became a popular fixture at the market. “I noticed that more and more people were asking for specific Korean dishes like kimchi, bibimbap and tteokbokki,” she says. “I could see that there was a growing demand for authentic Korean food, so we decided to expand our business with a restaurant.”

From Korea with love

Miae trained as a chef in South Korea, where she learned to prepare traditional Korean fried chicken from her mother, who ran a restaurant. Miae’s mother shared her recipes with her daughter, who spent a long time perfecting them and learning a variety of cooking techniques that elevated her food to the highest standard.

Miae is passionate about serving real, authentic Korean food made with the best of ingredients, and is excited to introduce others to Korean food culture and traditions. “The food is the most important thing for me,” Miae says. “I use only my own authentic recipes passed down from

Kanjang, fried chicken with homemade soy sauce.

my mother. If it’s not real Korean food, I don’t want to serve it to customers.”

Miae’s dream was to start a restaurant where guests can experience Korean culture and hospitality and, with KOGIs opening in 2020, that dream became a reality. Locals in Bergen, as well as the city’s many visitors, welcomed the exciting new addition to the culinary scene

with open arms. “I believe we are the only restaurant in Norway serving this type of food,” says co-owner Leif Anthonsen. “We were lucky to receive a very warm reception after opening our doors.”

Authentic Korean fare made with high-quality ingredients

KOGI offers a varied Korean BBQ and K-fried chicken menu, according to Mi-

ae’s own authentic recipes, as well as traditional dishes and trendy street food. Alongside the popular Korean BBQ, the bestseller on their menu is dakkangjeong – deep-fried chicken glazed with sticky-sweet and spicy sauce, served with cabbage salad and garlic dressing.

KOGI’s delicious, warming hotpots are also sought-after, as well as their dolsot bibimpap – rice topped with bulgogi (marinated meat), vegetables, fried egg and sauce, served the traditional way; sizzling hot in a stone bowl. The restaurant also offers authentic tteokbokki, which has long been one of Koreas most popular street-food dishes. This comforting dish, consisting of Korean rice cakes, fish cakes and vegetables served with a chili sauce, has become a huge food trend internationally over the last few years, due in part to the Korean pop culture explosion online.

However, the real star of the show is the Korean BBQ. ‘Kogi’ means ‘meat’, so it’s no surprise that the meat offerings are extra-special at this restaurant. For guests keen to sample the in-demand Korean BBQ, there are several options

Wagyu with ssamjang.

Dakkang jung, chicken with homemade chili sauce.

for meats to grill at the table. “It’s important to us to serve high-quality meat,” says Miae. “We use Wagyu Japanese and Black Angus beef imported from the USA and Australia, as well as free-range Iberico pork from Spain, and we find that Norwegian svineribbe (pork belly) has a great taste.” But vegetarians and vegans are also well-looked-after at KOGI, with a vegan bulgogi option offered for nonmeat eaters who want to try Korean BBQ.

‘Gogi-gui’ is the Korean BBQ method in which different types of marinated meat are prepared using small grills that are built into the table. Guests decide what type of meat they want to grill, and receive a range of banchans – side dishes such as kimchi and rice, salad wraps and sauces – to accompany the meat. Korean-style BBQ is a fun and unique way to experience food. “It’s a very social way of

eating, and we find that a lot of people really enjoy it,” says Miae. “I think part of the success of the restaurant is that the food tastes just like it does in Korea.”

Exciting times ahead

The KOGI team are in the middle of a busy and exciting period as they prepare to open their second location, just a stone’s throw from the picturesque Fisketorget in central Bergen. They have plans to open the new restaurant in time for Norway’s national day on 17 May. “We’ve been keeping quite busy,” Miae says with a laugh.

The new restaurant will be located in Kong Oscars Gate 29, and is more than double the size of KOGI’s first location, with a spacious area for private parties. But the ambitious team likely won’t stop there. In fact, Miae dreams of expanding

with a franchise of restaurants serving authentic Korean fried chicken and BBQ to other cities in Norway. Foodies, watch this space!

www.kogi.no

Instagram: @kogi_norge

Facebook: Kogi.norge

Grilled wagyu with lettuce wrapping.

Dolsot bibimbab with meat or avocado (vegetarian) served in a sizzling hot stone bowl.

Restaurant of the Month, Denmark

A perfect synergy of food and wine

Housed in a beautiful, historic villa in leafy Hellerup north of Copenhagen, The Samuel is one of Denmark’s most exciting fine-dining restaurants. With one Michelin star already in the bag after a mere four months, the future is looking bright for head chef Jonathan Bertnsen and maître d’hôtel Rasmus Knude.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: Michael Jepsen @mtj-studio

Jonathan was head chef at trailblazing restaurant Clou in Copenhagen for ten years, where he was awarded his first Michelin star in 2014. He is, with good reason, considered one of Denmark’s most innovative and creative chefs. The Samuel, lovingly named after his son, continues his tradition of creating exquisite and outstanding dishes.

“The food I make is in my DNA,” Jonathan says, when talking about his background in French cuisine and his time at the helm of Clou. “I do not stick to specific types of cooking, although I’m clearly influenced by southern European kitch-

ens. But I always use luxurious raw materials.” The restaurant is old-school in the best possible sense and offers a classic restaurant experience with starched white table linen, beautiful cutlery, atten-

tive table service and a menu that often includes caviar, fish and fois gras.

“I was looking at different buildings when the idea for the restaurant started taking shape,” he says. “When we saw the villa in Hellerup, that was it!” There are very few buildings left of this kind, so they have shown the utmost respect to its history during the restoration and refitting. The Samuel first opened its doors in November 2021, but closed again after three weeks, when COVID restrictions forced them to stay closed for six months. Four months after reopening, the Michelin director himself awarded them their first star, an outstanding achievement by any standard.

Food and wine in symbiosis

At The Samuel, food and wine are valued equally and the focus is on creating a culinary symbiosis. This devotion to pairing

Head chef and partner Jonathan Bertnsen.

Ethical goose foie gras & raspberry.

Banana & Browned Butter Ice Cream, Praliné & Light Licorice.

has been acknowledged with several international awards, such as main prize at the prestigious Copa Jerez international competition in food and wine pairing in 2013, and again in 2019. “I have a rather nerdy approach to food and wine. Wine and raw ingredients inspire and influence my cooking,” explains Jonathan. As both the head chef and sommelier, he certainly knows his way around both palate and plate.

Seasonal and sustainable

“We are not bound by self-imposed rules or restrictions, and don’t want fish from France when we can get the best seafood right here,” he continues. The kitchen always uses fresh seasonal ingredients, never compromising on their commitment to being sustainable. “I think it is healthy to look forward to things being in season. Take strawberries for example, it is worth the wait to have fresh strawberries in the summer – the taste is completely different!” says Jonathan. “New Nordic is not dying, it’s in all of us, it’s just called something else. It has inspired us to be more sustainable. Now we all think about where things come from,” he continues. The Samuel does not define itself as a ‘New Nordic’ restaurant, but does use the best local and sustainable ingredients available – so perhaps New Nordic does indeed just need a new name!

Passion and personality on a plate

A crucial part of The Samuel is their extensive wine list, which includes aged wines, as well as Jonathan’s personal favourite, aged Champagne. “We always find the wines before we create our menus,” Jonathan explains, which is where they set themselves apart. “You can’t change a wine, but you can play around with and adapt or change the food,” he explains.

Though he doesn’t consider The Samuel an anomaly in the current Danish food scene, and recognises the inevitable comparisons to other restaurants and chefs, he holds that “the beauty is that each high-end restaurant is different. Every place is created with passion and experience, and each chef’s and somme-

lier’s personality shines through on the plate or in the glass, as well as in the pairing of the two.”

The Samuel is passion on a plate and the dedication to combining the very best in food and wine is inspiring. Besides exquisite food and knowledgeable service, the atmosphere at The Samuel is key to the dining experience. Here, ‘hygge’, warmth and classic dining go hand in hand, and you get a real sense of the characters behind the place in each mouthful and every sip. Food and wine truly come together to create an altogether greater whole than the sum of its exceptional parts.

www.thesamuel.dk

Instagram: @jbk_the_samuel

Facebook: The Samuel Copenhagen

Entrance.

The worlds best cheeses.

Ten-armed squid in its own ink. Romantic table.

Omaka Beer: a boundary-breaking brewery Restaurant of the Month, Sweden

Omaka Beer is not your everyday lager. Quite the opposite, in fact; this brewery started with a mission to make innovative, creative and delicious brews that break the boundaries of conventional beer. The brewery and its adjoining restaurant, located in central Stockholm, have been at the forefront of new and exciting blends from the start, and offer the perfect hub for beer and food lovers who are looking for unique flavours in a bustling environment.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Petter Bäcklund

Omaka Beer is the family beer-brewing venture created by Hedda Spendrup. She is the fourth generation of Spendrups brewers – which means that the beverage has been flowing through her veins since the very beginning. Spendrups is one of the biggest breweries in Sweden and after discovering the joy of beer-making while studying to become a certified brewmaster, Hedda Spendrup decided to start something of her own.

She found the perfect location in the old architectural school in Stockholm, a brutalist house infamously voted the ugliest building in Sweden, but perfect for housing a cutting-edge brewery and restaurant. “The restaurant has turned into something much bigger than what I anticipated from the beginning. We have a team of incredibly talented chefs that create fantastic food combinations to

match the beer that we make. Our menu, both food and beer, changes regularly to accommodate exciting pairings that create an incredible sensory experience for our guests,” says Spendrup.

They constantly brew new beer flavours and the process is defined by a playful exploration, in order to expand the definition of what beer really is. Small batches mean that they can be flexible and responsive to what their guests enjoy. “I love the instant feedback from our visitors, it helps us push forward and develop brews that you can’t find anywhere else,” says Spendrup.

Bestsellers include Peppar Peppar, a lager brewed with passionfruit and two pepper varieties, that goes perfectly with ceviche. Kallsup is an acidulous beer with salt that gives you a taste of the sea with every sip, in the most delicious way. Visi-

tors to the brewery can enjoy a tour, and there are regular events, gigs and live DJs, creating a vibrant atmosphere open to everyone. So, ever wondered what a beer could really be? Come down to Omaka to find out.

www.omaka.beer

Instagram: @omaka.beer

The place for anyone who wants to explore the world of beer.

Master brewer Hedda Spendrup.

Photo: Linnea Lindblad

Hedda Spendrup in the brewery.

Locally brewed beer made in small batches.

Experience of the Month, Norway

Travel north for a unique and serene holiday

In the heart of the Norwegian coastal town of Lødingen lies Lødingen Brygge – a place to spend the night, somewhere to eat or find a relaxed drink at the pub, and a hub of fun local events.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Lødingen Brygge

Lødingen is a small township in northern Norway with a tiny population of around 2,000 people. It’s surrounded by water, tranquil nature and the beautiful northern lights. It also happens to be home to Stine Ytterstad, a self-proclaimed northern patriot and the owner of the local café and accommodation Lødingen Brygge.

“Lødingen is at the geographical junction between Lofoton, Vesterålen and Ofoten, making it the perfect place to stop, rest and explore,” says Ytterstad, who had dreamt of creating her own small cozy café for years before she founded Lødingen Brygge –meaning Lødingen Harbour – in 2021.

“A café wasn’t enough though,” she says. “We needed both somewhere for people to be social and for our visitors to stay, especially as the pandemic encouraged Norwegians to explore their own coun-

try more. That’s how the restaurant and Havnebørsen, our pub, was born.”

Situated on a beautiful coastline that rolls into majestic mountains, the harbour provides a space for both locals and tourists to rest, recharge and have fun. Whether it’s for one night or several, Lødingen Brygge provides excellent local culinary

experiences. At Havnebørsen, there is also live entertainment and a calendar of fun seasonal events, like a mini-festival in May, as well as Oktoberfest.

Local excellence with an exciting twist Ytterstad’s roots are deeply entrenched in Lødingen. Alongside the harbour, she works for her family’s fishing boat business, Ytterstad Fiskeriselskap AS, while her husband works in the family’s mechanical workshop, Lødingen Mekaniske. It’s perhaps no surprise that Ytterstad, along with the rest of the team at Lødingen Brygge, values its local identity

Stine Ytterstad.

and prioritises creating a space for and by locals, as well as tourists.

“It’s really important to us that we hire local youth, giving them an opportunity to get into the workforce,” says Ytterstad. “Many of our employees have had to learn by doing, and they’ve shown that they’re both willing and passionate about creating a space for all of us here in our little hometown.”

She explains that the people of Lødingen have a “what’s good for you is good for me” mentality, and that it’s important for them to support other local businesses. Their pantry and kitchen are filled to the brim with products from local waters, farmers and bakers.

“We try to serve local, traditional foods with a twist, often inspired by foreign tastes and flavours. Much of our food is based around locally sourced items, especially fish,” she says. “Our head chef, Rolf-Johan Kanstad, was trained by Jamie Oliver and has previously served as the head chef at the Norwegian embassy in Washington, so he’s very talented. We worked really hard to bring him home to Lødingen, and the best decision we made was to give him free reign over the menu.”

People from small sleepy towns like Lødingen have not always been able to spoil themselves with big-city habits like frequent meals out or loud social ar-

rangements. Still, the head chef at the harbour has, through carefully curated menus and dishes, managed to lure more and more locals out of their homes.

“Part of our dream with Lødingen Brygge was to create a social space for locals. Slowly but surely, our dream has come to life and more and more people are coming out to dine and enjoy themselves on the weekends,” says Ytterstad.

She adds that they want Lødingen to be a place that travellers both seek out and return to, which is why they’re looking to expand even more. Room renovations, new conference and event spaces, a sauna, more boat space – there’s much to do. “We’re hoping that by creating this

new harbour promenade, we’ll elevate our local community even more.”

Experience tranquility in Lødingen

From the blazing green and purple aurora borealis, to serene waters that stretch to the base of far-off mountains and the horizon, this northern town has everything you need to re-learn how to breathe. “While here, we encourage our guests to spend some time outdoors and explore our beautiful hiking paths, ancient petroglyphs and surrounding waters,” says Ytterstad.

Northern Norway has been heavily influenced by the fishing industry for hundreds of years, so it’s no surprise that Lødingen has some of the world’s best fishing spots. Only a stone’s throw from Lødingen Brygge is Gunnars Fiskelykke. Gunnar offers guided fishing trips, fishing equipment, as well as tours to Barøy Fyr, an old lighthouse where guests can stay the night.

So, whether you’re an intrigued beginner or an avid and experienced fisherman, there are opportunities for a scenic, tranquil day on the water for all. And if you simply wish to sit on shore and taste the fresh air, with a coffee and cinnamon bun in hand, there’s always Lødingen Brygge.

www.lodingebrygge.no

Instagram: @lodingenbrygge

Facebook: Lødingen Brygge

Experience of the Month, Finland

Finland’s finest art, antiques and arms in an intimate Finnish museum

The Reitz Collection is an art museum in the former Helsinki home of the influential mid-20th-century constructor Lauri Reitz, whose personal collection of art and antiques comprises some of the most important works in Finnish art history. This valuable entity is continually growing, thanks to ongoing acquisitions by The Reitz Foundation.

By Lena Hunter | Photos: The Reitz Collection

Lauri Reitz, born in 1893 in south-eastern Finland, was interested in collecting from a young age and, via his successful construction business, built a swift fortune that allowed him to pursue his passion for art and antiques. Throughout the 1930s, Reitz collected a range of Finnish paintings and antique silver, as well as valuable

porcelain, weapons, musical instruments, clocks, books and antique furniture from wider Europe.

“Reitz acquired many pieces from Finnish female artists in the 1920s and ‘30s, which was uncommon. Today, those works are recognized as being some of the best by those artists,” explains Jaana Cawén, chair of The Reitz Foundation. “This was a self-made man, quite avant-garde in his real-estate business, whose instincts for collecting have helped to preserve a remarkable trove of historical art objects.”

A growing collection

The Reitz Foundation, set up by Reitz’s widow in 1971, continually acquires new objects to complement and expand the museum’s collection, and the number of late 19th- and early 20th-century paintings by major Finnish artists has grown fourfold to some 190 works. “We only buy pieces that we consider remarkable in the artist’s production. Over the past few years we have

especially been acquiring works by the leading 20th-century artist Helene Schjerfbeck. Today, this collection is one of the most extensive in Finland,” says Cawén.

Equally significant is the museums armoury collection. “We have the most important public collection of European arms in Finland, with some really unique pieces, like a rare example of a chanfron – head armour for a horse – made in Nuremberg in 1515 and commissioned by Prince Radziwiłł,” says Cawén. The timepiece collection includes a magnificent table clock, built in Augsburg in 1640, which is the most important timepiece found in any Finnish museum. It’s one of my favourite objects in the collection,” Cawén adds.

The museum is free to visit Wednesdays 15–18 and Sundays 14–17. For groups over 10 people, private guided tours are free of charge, as per the museum’s goal to spread Finnish cultural knowledge. “Most visitors to the museum find it fascinating to see these seminal historical works in the intimate context of Reitz’s former home,” says Cawén. “Many call it a hidden gem.”

www.reitz.fi

Instagram: @reitzinsaationkokoelmat

Facebook: Reitzin säätiön kokoelmat

Amélie Lundahl.

Helene Schjerfbeck.

Brewery of the Month, Iceland

Beautifully crafted beers from Iceland

recipes, and of course you get to taste some delicious beers.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Lady Brewery

Based in Reykjavik, Iceland, Lady Brewery was born in late 2017. The team behind the gypsy brewery is made up of talented people in the design, arts and food industry. “It all started with three women homebrewing once a week,” says co-founder Þórey Björk Halldórsdóttir. “Soon, it took over everything and we found ourselves brewing all the time, it was strange but funny! Eventually, we set up Lady Brewery, a female-run craft brewery.”

The brewsters aim to give the final product a personality that challenges the traditional and stereotypical view on beer. “We’re interested in where, why and how consumers drink, and their mood,” says Halldórsdóttir. “We want to give people a platform to make their own opinions about beer. To see beer in a different light.”

Focus is on using natural ingredients from good soil and to maintain quality in flavour, drinking experience and visual approach, and Lady Brewery often collab-

orates with other local businesses such as restaurants, wine bars and hotels, as well as art and design festivals.

Layering flavours

Lady Brewery has three regular beers in its line-up. First Lady is the signature beer, a sophisticated American IPA with citrus and floral notes. Drink Like a Girl is a super fresh, fruity and joyful Hazy Pale Ale. And last but not least, Basic Bitch is a well-balanced lager with Saaz and Triumph hops. A fourth beer is on the way, The Other Woman, an American Blonde Ale with hints of orange.

The creative brewsters are experimenting with special releases throughout the year. For DesignMarch 2023, a design festival hosted in May, they have brewed Pause, a session IPA with exotic notes of pineapple. The brewery also hosts regular tastings with the opportunity to hear about the history of women in brewing, the thought process behind beers, ingredients and

What is clear is that they love to layer flavours; for instance, by using many different types of hops. Halldórsdóttir’s own favourite is Loksins Loksins (Finally Finally), a Gose with coriander, white pepper, salt from the ocean, Arctic thyme and lime zest. “I just love the idea of this style, a sour salty beer. We brew it every summer and it always sells out!”

www.ladybrewery.com

Instagram: @ladybrewery

Facebook: LadyBrewery

Lady Brewery is an ambitious gypsy brewery in Iceland, run by a creative group with a passion for producing amazing tasting beer and experiences related to beer.

Þórey Björk Halldórsdóttir, co-founder.

Gallery of the Month, Norway

From fishing to world-class art

The island-peppered west coast of Norway is famous for its deep-rooted fishing industry. Here, in the island town of Fosnavåg, the fishing company Ervik & Sævik and its vessel M/S Christina E has its base. But Ervik & Sævik is not just a fishing company – it also comprises a business hub called Horisont, with a restaurant and a gallery.

By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Birgitte Grongstad Kvalsvik/Ervik & Sævik

The gallery R/Art launched on 16 June 2022 with an opening exhibition by Magne Furuholmen. Many will recognise him as the keyboardist from the band a-ha, but he has been a strongly reputed visual artist for almost as long as he has been a musician, and has exhibited widely in Europe.

A passion for art

Rita Christina Sævik, CEO, is behind the gallery. Her passion for art started when she and her family moved to Denmark in 2010, while M/S Christina E was being built. As a newcomer with no contacts, visiting galleries became a regular activity and hobby. She began buying pieces and now the company’s collection counts over 100 works of art. “Today, 30

works are displayed on board Christina E,” Sævik says. “Since I began, the interest has only grown, and today it’s my hobby and great passion.”

For their summer exhibition, one of Norway’s leading contemporary artists, Håkon Bleken, is exhibiting at the gallery. He painted King Harald and Queen Sonja’s blessing in the historic cathedral Nidarosdomen, after their ascent to the throne. The exhibition opens on 1 May 2023 until 20 August 2023.

Untraditional and sustainable

The gallery is a part of a new building and may seem untraditional. Some of the walls are bare concrete, creating a contrast between the art and the space in

which it hangs. The mixed use of plaster and sisal hemp walls is an expression of sustainability, while also adding more variety to the rooms.

With 200 square metres, it is a generous space. But the art does not stop there. Ervik & Sævik’s private collection is on display all throughout the building. Visiting Horisont is therefore a holistic art experience.

www.horisont-fosnavaag.no Instagram: @horisont_fosnavaag

From an earlier exhibition by Nico Widerberg. The entrance to the gallery.

Karin Augusta Vogva makes art you can put on your wall or wear.

Art Profile of the Month, Denmark

Highlighting Danish Art

In the heart of Copenhagen lies Banja Rathnov Galleri & Clausens Kunsthandel, a combined gallery and art shop run by Banja Rathnov and Lis Clausen. Here, they exhibit and sell contemporary art including graphics, lithographic artwork and photography. The pair joined forces five years ago, united by a common goal: to promote Danish art.

By Karen Gilmour Kristensen

Lis Clausen inherited Clausens Kunsthandel from her father, art dealer Viggo Clausen, who opened the art shop in 1953. When Lis Clausen had to move location, she started working with Banja Rathnov, who had a gallery of her own.

Rathnov and Clausen are deeply rooted in the Danish artistic tradition, meaning that they mainly deal with Danish art or artists living in Denmark and their estates. When working with estates, Rathnov and Clausen make sure to work with the family of the late artist to preserve the artwork. “I believe that the artist’s country of origin is best suited to promote the art,” Rathnov says. “After all, if we don’t showcase Danish art, then who will?”

Working with Danish art also benefits the artist – or the family of the artist – who

has a physical location to visit. However, it’s not just about the location, it’s about connections too. Connections are key at Banja Rathnov Galleri & Clausens Kunsthandel, which is why they collaborate with the artist when deciding on a potential buyer. “Ideally, I’d like to know who I sell an artwork to, so I can know where it’s going to hang,” Rathnov explains. “But it also benefits the artist. In this way, we try to make sure the art won’t be stored in a warehouse.”

Artwork from Banja Rathnov Galleri & Clausens Kunsthandel can be purchased in the art shop, as well as online on the gallery’s website, Facebook and Instagram. For Rathnov, it’s vital that art receives the appreciation it deserves, which is why she and Clausen are passionate about working closely with the artist.

Before opening her first gallery, Rathnov worked in art auctions in Paris for many years, where she became aware of the conditions under which artists work.

“Part of the reason why I decided to open my own gallery was to give artists a better deal,” she says. “Whenever an artwork is sold at auction, the artist doesn’t make a profit – whoever owns the art does. I found it more considerate to collaborate with the artist.”

www.banjarathnov.com

www.clausenskunsthandel.dk

Instagram: @banjarathnov

Facebook: Banja Rathnov Galleri & Kunsthandel

The staircase.

Photo: Teit Jørgensen

Three photos of Banja Rathnov.

Photo: Fie Johansen

The exhibition Solskinsrytter by Milena Bonifacini. Photo: Ole Akhøj

The front of the building.

Photo: Teit Jørgensen

Architect of the Month, Iceland

An architecture and design studio that invites nature in

Rebekka Pétursdóttir and Ellert Hreinsson’s created their architecture and design studio, FORMER Arkitektar, to solve a simple interior decoration problem a few years ago. Today, they are working on Iceland’s biggest sustainable renovation project to date.

By Linda A. Thompson

A few years ago, Rebekka Pétursdóttir and Ellert Hreinsson started looking for a bench for the entrance hall to their home in Reykjavík, Iceland. They wanted the bench to be functional, but it also needed to have a personal touch.

After a fruitless search, the married couple decided to put pencil to paper and simply design one themselves. The result was an elegant, pared-down bench with a compact granite table top, leather seating and a glass and steel magazine stand –their reinterpretation of the mid-century telephone bench.

After that, the couple went on to design the VERA bench, shelf and side table, and they showed their first collection, also called VERA, at the 2020 DesignMarch, Iceland’s premier design festival.

What began as a DIY solution to an interior decoration frustration developed into a boutique architecture and design studio, FORMER Arkitektar. And the VERA shelf that the couple showed at DesignMarch just three years ago has today become the best-selling item in FORMER Arkitektar’s home furniture collection.

“We think that’s because it’s a simple solution to a complex problem,” Pétursdóttir explains. Pointing out that open plans can often make a space feel too flat, she says: “Rather than a kitchen, dining and living room being perceived as one space, the VERA shelf creates a space within space. It also gives the user a simple platform to personalise the space.”

Pétursdóttir and Hreinsson, both architects by training, say they take a personalised approach to each new project. “The best designs come from a deep understanding of our clients’ needs and aspirations, as well as a commitment to working closely with them throughout the design process,” says Hreinsson.

It’s a method that has resonated with their clients, adds Pétursdóttir, pointing out that clients often compliment them on this collaborative approach. “Clients appreciate that we take the time to listen and understand their needs, and that we can translate their vision into a beautiful, functional and transformative space.”

Nature plays a central role in their work as architects, inspiring everything from their first sketch for a project to the fully-formed, finished structure. When FORMER Arkitektar was commissioned to design the Icelandic headquarters of the auditing and consultancy giant KPMG, Pétursdóttir and Hreinsson decided to create direct and indirect connections to nature through something known as ‘biophilic’ design strategies. This approach saw all the employee workstations built next to windows, planters used as visual barriers, social spaces decorated with moss-like carpets and glass walls erected so as to allow natural light to flow into as many corners of the office as possible.

More marquee projects are now on the horizon, too. Pétursdóttir and Hreinsson were recently hired to oversee the biggest renovation project in Iceland with a Nor-

dic Swan label – the official sustainability ecolabel for products from the Nordic countries – to date. “We believe that as architects, we have a responsibility to design buildings that minimise their impact on the environment,” Hreinsson explains, adding that the project should be finalised by early 2024. “We are happy to be a part of a project that will hopefully set the standard for other big companies in Iceland when it comes to sustainability.”

www.former.is

Instagram: @former.is

Nature plays a central role in the couple’s work, inspiring everything from their first sketch for a project to the fully-formed, finished structure.

The VERA bench is FORMER Arkitektar’s reinterpretation of the mid-century telephone bench.

Architect of the Month, Finland

The Finnish architects fluent in timeless Nordic design

Made up of seven highly-qualified creative professionals, the small team behind Finnish architecture company Architect Takkunen is united by their passion for designing beautiful, sustainable homes with deep respect for both the environment and the clients’ particular needs.

By Julia Vihinen | Photos: Architect Takkunen

Founded by Finnish architect Tapani Takkunen in 2013, Architect Takkunen has its base in Oulu, Finland. With Takkunen’s own roots in the region, and having studied architecture at the University of Oulu, basing the office in the northern city was a natural choice for him. The company, however, has projects all over the country; from the bustling capital region to the calm and serene Lapland area.

“Our goal is to always design houses that are in harmony with their surroundings – whether they are located close to nature or in an urban environment,” Takkunen explains. The beautiful, lightfilled and functional homes designed by the firm speak for themselves, and in-

deed, the team prides itself on creating user-friendly architectural solutions that not only fit their environment, but also positively contribute to it.

Timeless living spaces with CLT-building

The entire team at Architect Takkunen has extensive knowledge and experience in designing versatile and flexible spaces tailored to all kinds of surroundings and terrains. They mainly work with private, individual clients on home and cabin designs, as well as building into pre-existing cityscapes.

The company achieves its characteristic flexibile architectural designs through an approach called CLT-building. Architect Takkunen is recognised as a specialist in

the method, which uses cross-laminated timber – a highly resilient form of engineered wood – to build. The material’s incredible versatility enables architects to work with a plethora of design choices.

Utilising cross-laminated timber in architecture creates striking and innovative structures while simultaneously

contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and deforestation, as CLT is a renewable and sustainable building material. The result is not only a sustainable and functional building, but one that expresses a natural and warm aesthetic, with visible wood grain for a unique and modern look.

As the firm’s projects are often on sites with a high aesthetic or historical value, Takkunen believes the building materials they use should be valuable, too. “We really want these houses to last for many, many generations. Timeless design combined with the strength and durability of solid-wood materials, such as cross-laminated timber, allows for this,” he says.

The company’s ethos of timelessness refers to beautiful architectural design, made with care and attention to detail, that won’t go out of style, and that considers everyday human needs, so that the house can be lived in and loved.

Designing the atmosphere of the space to be just right is also something to which Takkunen and his team are extremely committed. The company’s extensive use of virtual interior design and detailed 3D visualisation in the design process helps with this, as it enables the client and the architect to experience the space from

within before the actual building construction even starts.

Small firm, big impact

Made up of five architects and two interior architects, the team at Architect Takkunen is relatively small, but their collective knowledge is big. There is space for creativity and for the unique strengths of each designer to serve as part of the whole. The benefits of a smaller office are also visible in the way communication flows seamlessly within the firm.

When making not just houses but homes, an ongoing understanding and clear dialogue with the client is crucial. “Our team has the time and resources to genuinely listen to the client’s wishes and needs, as well as to visit the site in advance to really get a feel of the future house’s environment. This is quite rare in the industry these days, Takkunen says.

Looking to the future, Architect Takkunen has many different and exciting projects on the horizon, thanks to positive recognition inside the industry and word-of-mouth recommendations that are increasing the demand for the team’s unique expertise. The company is working on holiday houses in the increasingly popular Lapland area, detached houses and city homes all over the country, as well as redesigning entire small city-

blocks and neighbourhoods. No matter the project size, the dedication to timeless Nordic design and user-friendly and environmentally-conscious architectural solutions is consistent throughout.

www.arkkitehtitakkunen.com

Instagram: @arkkitehti_takkunen

Josephine.

AMAGER –a hidden gem in Copenhagen

If you ask a born-and-raised Copenhagener about Amager (pronounced Ama’r) they will either frown or tell you how much they love the island. Amager was a low-income area with cheap apartments, and as such was considered a low-status and somewhat dodgy neighbourhood. But a lot has happened recently. Situated just beyond the historic Christianshavn area, Amager is a great destination close to the city, but removed from the high-density tourist zones. This often-overlooked ‘small city in the bigger city’ is where you find the gems; like locally produced kombucha, natural wine, cafés and fantastic secondhand shopping. Read on to discover the best hidden gems in Amager to visit on your next trip to Copenhagen.

Alice Ice Cream & Coffee

Copenhagen is renowned for good coffee. On the border of Amager and Christianshavn, you’ll find the café and (during summer) ice-cream shop Alice. The spot serves amazing coffee, masala chai, natural wine to-go and a small selection of homebaked goods that draw a queue of locals on sunny mornings. The interior is minimalistic – the coffee speaks for itself –and it’s a good place to work from.

Markmandsgade 1

Instagram: @alice.cph

Tapirus Second hand

This is hands downs one of Copenhagen’s best second-hand stores. Tapi-

rus buys and sells pre-loved fashion for men and women. You will find clothes, accessories, shoes and jewellery from trendy Scandinavian brands, as well as fun vintage and lesser-known gems. No shopping trip is complete without a visit to Tapirus.

Amagerbrogade 48 C Instagram: @tapirus_secondhand_shop

Naturlig Høst

Naturlig Høst means ‘Natural Harvest’. With a nice selection of organic fruits, vegetables and loose-weight nuts, the newly-opened produce store has been welcomed with open arms to the neighbourhood. Find high-quality chocolate

bars, Danish rapeseed oil and other delicacies to bring on a picnic, or to gift to a loved one.

Amagerbrogade 118

Instagram: @naturlig_hoest

Josephine

Josephine is a cosy wine shop and bar located in an old bodega that has been lovingly restored by the new owners. Josephine has quickly become ‘the place’ for locals to swing by for a glass or two after work or for first dates, and is popular among wine-loving Copenhageners. With a giant selection of red, white, rosé and orange wine, kombucha and beer, it’s one of Copenhagen’s best new wine

Text & photos: Alejandra Cerda Ojensa

Amager Beach.

bars. Don’t miss the DJ sessions on Sundays or wine tastings on Thursdays.

Frankrigsgade 15

Instagram: @josephine_amager

KBH Deluxe

If you’re new to buying clothes second-hand, or don’t want to waste any time looking through piles of clothes, KBH Delux is for you, with only a curated selection of Scandinavian and higher-end brands. At KBH Delux you will find vintage and pre-loved clothes, shoes and accessories for women.

Amagerbrogade 57

Instagram: @kbh_deluxe

Le Kaff

It’s hard to find raw and vegan pastries and cakes, but at Le Kaff they

have something for everyone. Next to the beach, Le Kaff is perfect for sipping on cool ice lattes during summer and warm hot chocolates during winter. Do not miss the pistachio cake – a rich chocolate and crunchy pistachio dream.

Øresundsvej 158

Instagram: @lekaff

Table Ferments

One of the best things about Amager is the number of creative people. Table Ferments is run by two kombucha enthusiasts that make top-class kombucha in unexpected flavours. Ever tried bay leaf, beetroot or oregano kombucha? This is your sign to explore a new palette. Open by appointment only.

Liflandsgade 4

Instagram: @tableferments

Nomad and the Bean

A cup of cofee at the café Nomad and the Bean feels like sitting in your uncle’s living room, with friends and family popping by. It’s a tiny café with a giant heart. The owner roasts his own coffee and wholeheartedly embraces every guest to make them feel at home. The coffee is so fresh you’ll want to buy a bag to take home – which you can.

Holmbladsgade 15

www.purplenomad.dk

Ost og Deli

The vibrant yellow walls of this minimalistic deli match the bold flavours of the cheeses, canned goods in beautiful packaging, and natural wines that it sells. The owner is happy to help you find the perfect cheese, and even seeks out vegan cheeses to suit everyone’s needs. A fantastic little store to write home about.

Holmbladsgade 5

Instagram: @ostogdeli_amager

Amager beach

Any Amager local will agree that the beach is one of the area’s best features. This beautiful white-sand beach is the perfect place to spend all day with the kids and family, or to go for a quick dip with friends. Close to the metro station Amager strand, on a hot summer’s day Amager Beach feels like a Danish version of a Mediterranean beach.

Table Ferments.

Nomad and the bean.

Best new Scandi music in May

Icelandic pop visionary Daði Freyr is making an album. True to quirky form, he’s calling it I’m Making An Album. And he’s releasing it in three parts. The first part, featuring four tracks, was released in April. And on it, the stand-out song is the stellar Thank You. Starting off in the most unassuming way possible, it builds slowly and blossoms beautifully into a whirlwind of electronica with a euphoric vocal performance from Mr Freyr. It’s heady, yet thoroughly wholesome pop.

A tennis player who ended up finishing runner-up in the 2022 series of Swedish Idol in December, Albin Tingwall has now released his debut single. On Something About You, he’s gifted us with an electro rave-up that features squelchy synths aplenty. Written and produced by the critically acclaimed Rasmus Flyckt, it’s a sound I’d be very happy

Monthly Illustration

Posh friends

When I went to A Level college, I made my first posh friends. They attended the college as a form of protest, rebelling against their much grander public-school sixth forms. They spoke differently to the pupils at my comprehensive school, wore dark crushed velvet and thought Nietzsche was cliché.

They successfully taught me how to fix my tights with nail polish and failed to teach me the correct way to arrange my face to show utter distain, by not showing anything at all. It was fashionable to act like a ‘ladette’ at this time, so we often went to the pub for breakfast pints of cider before attending our first psychology class of the day. Just the one though – my posh friends took their classes seriously.

They were cool, worldly and never lost control. If they had boyfriends, they didn’t talk about them. They had other things to worry about, like feminism and cystitis and setting

to hear him lean more into throughout 2023. It makes for a very exciting first single for the newcomer.

Finnish pop megastar ALMA is back with a hot new tune ahead of the release of her Time Machine album. New single Tell Mama hones the pop majesty of two of its predecessors – Summer Really Hurt Us and Everything Beautiful – and serves as another big highlight from this artist’s oeuvre. On this new one, she’s also seemingly been taking lessons in pop composition from fellow Nordic legends ABBA – in both melody and electric piano riffs. The final 30 seconds play out like a glorious tribute to the foursome, complete with the requisite key change.

Finally, Danish artist Nicklas Sahl is out with new single Mercy. A modern-day anthem of self-acceptance with a retro twist to the pro-

By Karl Batterbee

up a fake student-ID business that made us legally old enough for breakfast pints. I was grateful to be included and tried to share some of my comprehensive-school wisdom with them in return. They weren’t sure about some of the language I’d picked up

duction, it’s got a chorus that beckons the listener to join in on singing it. And we could probably all do with chanting those words of encouragement to ourselves.

www.scandipop.co.uk

By Maria Smedstad

–not that they were scornful, rather they found my strange combination of Swedish and Kentish slang hard to understand. For example, I never quite mastered the correct pronunciation of “are you alright?”, settling instead on a one-syllable, prolonged shriek of “YOOOAAAAAAAAAIIII??!” They did approve of my edgy makeup tips, however. Applying brown lipliner outside of your lips really does make them look fuller... from a distance.

Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. Maria writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

Scandinavian Culture Calendar

–Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here!

By Hanna Heiskanen

Photo: Beatrice Törnros / Världskulturmuseerna

Copenhagen International Dance Festival (until 8 June)

Over the course of the spring, this festival is taking over the city for site-specific performances of contemporary dance in, among other places, assisted living facilities and schools. All outdoor performances are free of charge and open to everyone. You can also chat to choreographers and dancers by booking a ‘meet the artist’ session. Options include ballet star Charlotte Khader and Greek choreographer Toula Limnaios.

Venues around Copenhagen

www.cidf.dk

Kristina Gjems’ Your Shadow (3 to 10 June)

Wherever you go, your shadow will follow; that’s the premise of Kristina Gjems’ contemporary dance piece, developed

together with Loan Ha. Their collaboration goes back a decade, but this is their first duet. Gjems trained at the London School of Contemporary Dance and also teaches tai chi.

Performances at two locations in Oslo

www.dansenshus.com

Generation 2023 (until 20 August)

What’s on the mind of young artists today? Attempting to answer this question is Amos Rex, one of those rare contemporary art museums popular to the point of queues building up outside. It’s well worth the hype, even if only for the cool underground premises. Generation 2023 sees 50 artists exploring issues such as mental health, gender and digitisation across image, sound, animation and more.

Mannerheimintie 22–24, Helsinki www.amosrex.fi

Jörn Donner – Travelling 1951–68 (until 3 September)

Jörn Donner (1933-2020) had a colourful life but also a very productive career as a writer, director, politician and one of Finland’s most controversial cultural figures. It turns out that he dabbled with travel photography too, and you can now see the results for yourself in an exhibition at the Hakasalmi Villa in central Helsinki. It’s a journey around the world, but also back in time.

Mannerheimintie 13b, Helsinki

www.hakasalmivilla.fi

Stockholm:

European

Capital of Gastronomy 2023

Stockholm is the European Capital of Gastronomy this year, which means there’s never been a better time to sample the city’s famous culinary delights, whether

Kristina Gjems: Your Shadow Photo: Martin Myrvold

you prefer asparagus or ice cream, natural wine or, dare we say it, liquorice. You can experience last year’s actual Nobel gala menu at the restaurant Stadshuskällaren, take part in a wild plant walk, or learn about the art of tablescaping. We’ll go for seconds (or thirds).

Venues around Stockholm www.capitalofgastronomy.se

A World of Games (until 18 August 2024)

If you occasionally bemoan the gaming-crazy youth in your life, we don’t blame you. But did you know that the interest in games stretches back millennia and spans several continents? Familiarise yourself with the fascinating history of games in Gothenburg’s Museum of World Culture, where you can also take part in events. How about trying your hand at designing a board game? The dice is thrown… Södra

vägen 54, Gothenburg

www.varldskulturmuseet.se

Jörn Donner: Cape Town, South Africa in 1968. Photo: Jörn Donner / Donner Productions

Stockholm is the European Capital of Gastronomy 2023. Photo: Lena Granefelt

Published 05.2023

ISSN 1757-9589

Graphic Designer Mercedes Moulia

Cover Photo

Olle Kirchmeier

Contributors

Alejandra Cerda Ojensa Åsa Hedvig Aaberge

Celina Tran

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Eva-Kristin Urestad Pedersen

Hanna Andersson

Hanna Heiskanen

Maria Vole

Marianne Thøgersen

Marie Westerman Roberts

Molly McPharlin

Nina Bressler

Philip Denvir

Tina Nielsen

Trine Jensen-Martin

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Lena Hunter

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Maria Smedstad

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Antti Järvelä at Amos Rex.

Photo: Aleksi Poutanen / Amos Rex

MUSEUM

27/6 – 3/9

Exhibition, guided tours stable café, walking trail

6 - 12 August 2023

Master Class with court singer

Anne Sofie von Otter

MASTER CLASS

BIRGIT NILSSON STIPENDIUM Award & concert

TOSCA IN CONCERT

birgitnilsson.com

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