Honeymoon Hideaways: Sweden

A Touch of the Unexpected
Words by Jennifer Stein
Photos courtesy of (in order of appearance): Jeppe Wikstrom - Stockholm Visitors Board, Nicho Sodling, Jonas Ingman & Fredrik Broman.

Everything I thought I knew about Sweden was fairly accurate. Granted, linear furniture and trendy clothes available at discount prices (surprised to learn locals shop at both IKEA and H&M too), beautiful blondes strolling the streets and great disco music by the legendary ABBA are all fantastic offerings by the Swedes. But suffice it to say, this is an area of Europe with some serious heart and history beyond the surface scene.

Destination I Do’s Creative Director is from the neighboring country of Norway, and when talking about our upcoming articles, she mentioned the romance and beauty of Sweden’s capital – Stockholm. She called it “the most romantic city” she had ever visited. Not one to exaggerate, I took her word for gospel. We wanted to explore a little more of the country and learned West Sweden had some pretty incredible offerings too, so planning began for our Scandinavian sojourn.

Our first stop was Stockholm and after researching online, I was sure of one thing – I desperately wanted to visit the city’s “Old Town” of Gamla Stan (below). Narrow cobblestone streets with quaint stores and cafés surround famous attractions such as the Nobel Museum and one of the largest Royal Palaces in the world with over 600 rooms. If you visit, it’s best to pull up a seat street-side at Kaffe Koppen (our favorite of the eateries) and sip a latte, nibble a fresh baked pastry and take in the medieval city.

Outside of Gamla Stan, activities abound – take a walking tour, and once your feet tire, jump a ferry to The Vasa Museet (the only preserved 17^th century ship in the world) or tour through City Hall (home to where the Nobel Dinner is served).

When it comes time to rest your head, a must stay is Stallmastaregarden Hotel and Restaurant in Royal Haga Park. Circa 1650, this old farmhouse turned inn has 49 quaintly appointed rooms and is set on Brunnsviken Bay. Dining at Stallmastaregarden is a treat as the open kitchen gives you a birds-eye view of the culinary creations awaiting you. Traditional offerings such as toast skagen and bleak roe with cheesecake are served along with outstanding modern dishes.

At some point, you may want to venture out of your accommodations (although I know it’s not easy since “cozy” got its definition here). Take a stroll through Royal Haga Park – the beautiful walkways meander through the English Park, so finding a romantic view here is not difficult. When you’re ready for another nibble, grab a table at Haga Forum directly next to Stallmastaregarden. The atmosphere is minimalistic and the food, outstanding.

I would recommend spending at least a few days in Stockholm, but when you are ready for a change of pace head west via train to Goteborg.

Deep down a country road you will find one of the most majestic and stunning historic manor houses in all of West Sweden, Bjertorp Slott (right). It’s small, with only 35 inspired rooms (I say inspired as each one has a different story and theme), yet the grounds are sprawling and otherworldly making you feel as if you were transported in time and place. We were given the Nobel Room with one of the best views of the back gardens. The room was decked out with parquet floors, luxurious bed linens and huge windows which opened up to the grounds below. We could have spent our entire trip in the confines of that room (attention honeymooners), but had many adventures ahead. One adventure was just a few steps downstairs in Bjertorp’s dining room. Five courses of heaven paired with wine sent straight from Eden is a fairly apt depiction of what you’ll experience. Our absolute favorite was the foamed cauliflower soup with white truffle and ham powder. Diners linger here, so eat slowly and enjoy the ambiance.

Once you’re refreshed and ready for a new day, head over to Läckö Slott, an awe-inspiring castle dating back to the 13^th century (left). Complete with on-site chapel, seasonal entertainment and set on the shores of Lake Vänern, Läckö Slott is one of Lidköping’s valued treasures. The castle is perched on the very edge of the island and stands like a beacon of history. (Note: the castle is only open during the summer, so check their web site for hours of operation)

If you’re scouting for places to have your destination wedding, don’t miss Thorskogs Slott – an immaculately kept grand manor dating back to 1892. The main manor has 13 rooms, but in total the property can accommodate up to 70 guests.  Set on one of the most beautiful and out-of-the ordinary landscapes in West Sweden, your family and friends (or your new husband or wife) will get the vacation of a lifetime.

When you’re ready for some “sea life” head for Hälleviksstrand and take a ferry or private boat to Käringön Island. A small and intimate fishing village, Käringön’s residents are as invested in one another as they are in themselves. Enter Camilla Hofsten, the co-owner of Käringö Oyster Bar and much of the income generating businesses on the island. Her and her father cultivate oysters over a three-year period and pair them with Champagne they traveled the region to find. Groups are welcome (and preferred) with a minimum of six to experience their 12-seat Oyster Bar.

To extend your nautical experience, head over to Handelsman Flink, a family owned and operated hotel and restaurant. Have your wedding reception here complete with fresh caught lobster and award winning cuisine. Or, consummate your vows in the ultimate honeymoon suite, private jetty included. 

Once you’re up for the “pickled herring challenge” there is only one place to go – The Salt & Sill. Part restaurant (specializing in herring), part floating hotel, the Salt & Sill offers one-of-a-kind rooms and experiences, including a floating sauna (which can be rented and sailed for group events).

After you’re back in Gothenburg, stay at Elite Plaza, one of the area’s nicest city hotels. Luxurious marble bathrooms, beautiful views of the city and a convenient location make it easy to take on the town. Gothenburg has no shortage of things to do: gardens, museums and even the Wheel of Gothenburg – 60 meters tall with individual glass gondolas giving you the most breathtaking view of the city.

Our experience of Sweden was unlike anything I could have expected and surpassed my imagination. Romance and adventure abound, be it in a 13^th century castle or on the shores of a small-town fishing village.

Traveling through this gorgeous Scandinavian country will surprise you, so expect the unexpected.