Scan Magazine, Issue 186, January 2026

SCAN M A G A Z I N E

6 MUST-SEE DESTINATIONS IN SWEDEN

DIVE INTO 2026 THE MAGIC OF COLD-WATER THERAPY

YOUR GUIDE TO FINLAND’S BEST FESTIVALS

PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA ISSUE 186 JANUARY 2026

TOP SCANDINAVIAN BRANDS FOR DRY JANUARY

KETO

®

Design by Jussi Louesalmi Discover the jewelry collection at au3goldsmiths.com

Au3 Goldsmiths | Unioninkatu 27, Helsinki, Finland | +358 9 43650090 | au3@au3.fi @au3goldsmiths | au3goldsmiths.com

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Editor’s Note

Editor’s Note Dear reader, Looking at the grey, sluggish weather outside my window, I cannot help but hope that 2026 will bring brighter times, fewer worries, and less incitement to avoid the news. Fortunately, however, while the news might seem as gloomy as the Danish winter weather, life in Scandinavia seems to go on pretty much as usual, and our magazine is a celebration of just that: the success, resilience, and beauty of all things Scandinavian – our design, nature, people, music and culture.

You may call it escapism, or you may call it focusing on the things that give you joy; the latter is exactly what our cover feature on Scandinavian cold-water therapy dives into. In it, we explore the lessons learned by British author Laura Hall, who in her new publication, The Year I Lay My Head in Water, recounts her experiences over a reformative year spent plunging into the icy waters of the Nordic countries.

Cold-water dipping is just one way to exploit the revitalising properties of Scandinavia’s breathtaking nature. Our theme on must-see destinations in Sweden offers plenty of other, less goose-bump-inducing ways to do so, as well as a string of culinary, cultural and historic delights.

With its many historic monuments, stunning landscape, and rich culinary scene, Scandinavia is indeed the place to go if you want to start your new year with a physical and mental boost. And in our two other special themes, we give you plenty of excuses to go – festivals in Finland, history, art, and marine experiences in Norway.

On top of that, as always, we explore a host of cultural events to attend, places to stay and restaurants to try, from a Michelin-starred rooftop treat in Helsinki to a taco joint, turned city favourite in Oslo.

So, if you, like me, are looking at a gloomy sky, searching for something to look forward to in the new year, this issue should have what you are looking for.

As always, we hope you enjoy reading this issue of Scan Magazine as much as we enjoyed making it.

Signe Hansen, Editor

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In this issue COVER FEATURE 6

The life-affirming effects of cold-water therapy In our cover feature, we dive into 2026 with author Laura Hall, who has spent a year exploring the uplifting and life-affirming effects of cold-water therapy. Contrary to what one might believe, her enthusiasm is truly contagious; before you know it, you will find yourself putting on your robe and heading towards the sea.

DESIGN 12

Stay snug and stylish through winter On our fashion pages, you can enjoy a selection of stylish winter wear from top Scandinavian brands, sure to keep you warm and chirpy until spring does the job.

FOOD AND DRINK 14

Sin-free quinoa patties, teary beer and Dry January favourites While our dedicated plant-based food columnist Katharina Kjeldgaard shares her secret for super-crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside quinoa patties, our in-house beer expert, Malin Norman, ponders if a beer can be so good it will bring you to tears. On our We Love This pages, we present a selection of non-alcoholic drinks, sure to keep both you and your bar cabinet stylish and level-headed through the winter.

SPECIAL THEMES 18

Top destinations to visit in Sweden, 2026 In this special theme, we explore six must-see destinations in Sweden, on and off the beaten track.

From the charming cultural hubs of the south to the majestic landscapes of the north, and the lush woodland and quaint towns in between. Expect a bonanza of culinary and cultural highlights, along with the stunning landscapes that make Sweden an ideal destination for adventure and natural revitalisation any time of the year.

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Festival guide, Finland Explore Finland’s impressive, diverse programme of festivals set in stunning landscapes, buzzing cities and everything in-between. From modern dance to jazz and chamber music, the nation’s thriving festival scene attracts leading artists from around the world across a range of genres. If you are looking for a good excuse to visit the happiest country in the world, you will find it here.

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Visit Norway In this theme, we visit a number of lesser-known attractions all over Norway. Historic hotels, a chance to step right into the life of a Viking, marine insights and Norwegian and Sámi art – here you will find both the familiar and the unexpected.

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Perry Stenbäck In this feature, we meet Perry Stenbäck, one of Denmark’s most acclaimed guitarists and a 2025 recipient of the Danish Folk Music Prize alongside his wife. Based in Denmark but Swedish by birth, Stenbäck reflects on the award, his many musical projects, and a career shaped by collaboration across genres.

CULTURE 104 The best new events, film and music in Scandinavia In this month’s Culture section, music columnist Karl Batterbee recommends new Nordic pop numbers to get you started on the new year with a dance, and illustrator Maria Smedstad ponders the wonders of central heating. Film and TV columnist Anders Lorenzen presents a special selection of upcoming Scandinavian talent to look out for in 2026, and our special feature dives into the history and influence of Together For A Better Day, one of the most significant concerts in Sweden today.

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Dive into 2026: Six lessons from Scandinavian cold-water therapy Laura Hall is the author of a new memoir, The Year I Lay My Head In Water, all about a year spent swimming the Nordic seas in search of a better life. Scan Magazine explores what she learned and how it might make for a better 2026.

By Laura Hall and Signe Hansen

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Photos: Laura Hall

Swimming in Greenland proved the peak in Hall’s exploration of cold-water therapy.

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conference calls and instead focused on swimming as often as possible,” she explains matter-of-factly. The change was remarkable. In her own words, here is what she learned: 1. Icelanders have a phrase for the power of water If you’re having a bad day, Icelanders suggest that you should ‘lay your head in water’. The title of my book comes from that powerful idea: that water can soothe and comfort you, and that water can help you find the answers to what you’re looking for. I strongly recommend travelling to Iceland to seek solutions in their hot pools – one of my favourites is Hvammsvik Hot Springs, where you can bathe in an ice-cold fjord and warm up in little geothermally heated hot pools once used by the Vikings.

2. Swimming strengthens your connection with nature

A swimming spot at Norway’s Arctic Hideaway, an hour by boat west of Bodø.

“I didn’t set out to build a better life through cold water swimming at all: I was not as structured as that. In fact, in 2021, I wasn’t structured at all. All I knew was that my job was slowly killing me, I didn’t feel like myself anymore and that stress had built up to the point where I needed to do something about it,” explains Hall about the decision that eventually led her to radically change her life.

In the space of a month, she quit her job and took her first plunge into cold water swimming. She wasn’t sure what was going to happen next, but felt strongly that the only way she was going to get better was to start doing the things she loved to do and stop doing the things she did not. “So, I gave up meetings and 8

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In 2021, Laura Hall took up cold-water swimming, plunging into natural waterbodies all over Scandinavia, Greenland and Iceland.

Scandinavians are known for their deep connection to nature, and Scandinavian swimmers even more so. I’ve swum with people from Copenhagen to Nuuk and noticed that a connection to nature is a strong reason they dive in. One of my swimming friends noted that when you’re walking through a forest, you’re not as immersed in nature as when you’re swimming, and that’s a reason why it feels so good. I’ve found that spending a year, during which I vowed to myself that I would swim in the sea at least once a week, has put me in touch with nature in a far deeper way than I thought possible.

3. Swimming in Greenland is transformational I never thought I would have the guts to swim in the sea in Greenland in full view of icebergs floating past. But when I landed on Uunartoq Island in South Greenland, it just felt irresistible. Uunartoq is unique in that it has a hot spring.

Then, down the hill from the hot spring, there is a perfect crescent of white sand and the clearest blue water you’ve ever seen. If you saw it in a holiday brochure and didn’t feel how cold the wind was, you would think it was the most beautiful beach in the world. I’m not exaggerating to say that my peak swimming moment

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Uunartoq hot spring.

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was running down the hill from the hot spring to swim in the icy sea, then running back up the hill to warm up.

4. Scandinavian swimming pool changing rooms are a lot For me, as a Brit, Danish changing rooms have always been a bit of a challenge. It’s expected that you will shower naked in a public shower room – no cubicles – before you put on your swimming costume and get in the pool. Of course, it’s sensible and hygienic, but the idea of being naked in public is quite alien when you have grown up in the UK. That said, I’ve gone through extreme exposure therapy now – the same situation is replayed in changing

rooms in Sweden, Iceland and Finland – and am getting more comfortable with it.

5. Saunas are the key to a good cold-water swim I never considered myself much of a sauna fan until I went to Helsinki. Sauna culture is off the charts in Finland’s capital, and it’s so much fun. I’ve really enjoyed seeing how much heat I can take, feeling the sweat roll off my body and sensing the wave of heat in the air. In Denmark, the saunagus tradition is one to try: that’s where a sauna is paired with scent notes and music, and occasionally a meditation or two as well. I like the ritual of it all.

These days, I try to sit in the highest seat

and sweat for as long as possible, and I would always rather swim and sauna than just swim alone.

6. There is no such thing as a bad swim Even the days when it’s been hard to swim have been good days. I’ve swum – though dipped might be more accurate for some occasions – in the Arctic, in Iceland, in Greenland, and in Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway. You never regret a swim! I still find myself having to talk myself into it on a regular basis – especially if it’s a cold or rainy day and there are other places I’d like to be. But I know that the feeling I’ll have when I get out of the cold sea is worth it, so I fo-

Copenhagen Islands Brygge early morning.

Perfect conditions for a plunge, South Greenland.

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cus on that. It’s all about that addictive, electrifying feeling you get in your skin, and the calmness you have in your mind at the end. It’s a real sense of achievement – you should try it sometime.

A final lesson On top of all the above, the most defining lesson Hall learned during her year of cold-water therapy was simply that life is better when you do what you love. “I know this sounds obvious, but I don’t think it can be overstated: if you want to construct a life you love, you need to fill it with things that you love to do,” she says. For her, that meant meeting new people, swimming, and writing. “For you, it might be different,” she stresses.

Still, with her newly released book, Halls shows you first-hand what happens when you plot a course from a stressed-out, overworked person to one who feels they can do anything. “I’d highly recommend prioritising doing things that you love: I found so many people across Scandinavia doing just that,” she concludes. And as we head into 2026, the idea that a simple, steady habit like cold-water swimming could reshape a year with more intention and joy feels almost too tempting not to try.

The Year I Lay My Head In Water is published by Icon Books and is out on 15 January 2026.

Bodø floating sauna – saunas are the key to a good cold-water swim, notes Hall.

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Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary A new calendar is hung on the wall, and with it comes a quiet sort of reset. January is not about flashy statements or festive excess, but rather about recalibration, comfort, and the excitement of a new wardrobe that works as hard as we do. This month, we turn to winter whites, deep neutrals, mossy greens, and navy staples that will keep you warm through the coldest season.

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Press photos In a time of quiet resets and colder days, this moss green fuzzy alpaca knit brings warmth, texture and a dose of considered style. It’s the kind of knit you reach for when you want to feel well dressed, comfortable and poised without trying too hard.

Evening polo in moss green fuzzy alpaca, EUR 360 www.ourlegacy.com

The North Face knows how to do Nordic weather. If you’re planning for skiing or hiking trips in January, the Chilkat V lace waterproof boots are designed for serious winter conditions. With a waterproof suede upper, seam-sealed construction, 200 g of Heatseeker™ Eco synthetic insulation, a compression moulded EVA midsole, and a Surface Control™ rubber outsole, you’re bound to stay warm and dry no matter how snowy or slushy your surroundings.

Chilkat V lace waterproof boots, EUR 140 www.thenorthface.com The Neo double breasted coat ties together warmth, tailoring and versatility. Crafted in a weighty English wool cloth, fully lined, with a generous full-cut silhouette, it allows you to layer a knit or blazer underneath without the coat losing shape or becoming restrictive. It features timeless details such as peak lapels, large patch pockets and a single vent. For a tailored look that will keep things cosy, pair with a merino rollneck with slim charcoal trousers and polished loafers or Chelsea boots.

Neo double breasted coat in navy, EUR 1,295 www.bergbergstore.com

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January often means darker, colder days and more time spent indoors or in transitional moments, and the cosy flannel pyjama pants from Björn Borg are exactly what you need for those quieter hours. The check pattern adds a visual interest, making the pyjama pants feel more like intentionally styled loungewear rather than just nightwear.

Core flannel pyjama pants in multicheck 2: EUR 49,95 www.bjornborg.com

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A good, embroidered balaclava like this one is the ultimate winter accessory: functional for warmth, yet styled to elevate a winter wardrobe. It will keep you covered in the wind, and the flowers add a stylish twist!

Black flower balaclava, EUR 175 www.ganni.com

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January is the month of fresh starts, grey skies, and the quiet magic of layering. Enter & Other Stories’ Lace bow ribbon blouse: romantic, refined, and perfectly poised to lift the winter wardrobe. The blouse remains the statement, delicate all-over lace, semi sheer in a soft, creamy white. Balloon sleeves, scalloped hems, and a wide ribbon bow at the neck give it movement and personality, while the modest stand collar keeps it winter appropriate.

Perfect for days when you want elegance without the fuss.

Lace bow ribbon blouse, EUR 99 www.stories.com

This ARKET jumper is a quintessential January piece: quietly refined, well-made, warm and versatile. Made from an alpaca and wool blend, it speaks to a wardrobe that’s shifting out of festive exuberance into calm, considered dressing. Pair it with high-waisted black trousers, jeans, or a pearl satin maxi skirt, depending on your occasion, as well as a pair of sleek leather boots.

Woolalpaca jumper, EUR 119 www.arket.com

Meet your new slope essential: Tryvann bib trousers from Holzweiler. Crafted in a water repellent, insulated technical shell, these bibs are designed for both performance and après-ski style. Adjustable shoulder straps, internal snow gaiters, reinforced ankle hooks, and zip closures make them fully slope-ready, while the dark grey tone provides a sleek, minimal silhouette that lets you layer colour or texture on top.

Tryvann bib trousers, EUR 390 www.holzweileroslo.com

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Beer Column

Beers that make the tough ones tear up

By Malin Norman

Has a beer ever made you cry? At an event not long ago, someone told me that a beer once had them in tears – because it was just that good. It made me curious, how a beer could have such a strong emotional impact. So, I asked some beer colleagues around the world if they had ever felt something similar. Here’s what I discovered.

One beer competition director mentioned being sent a box of Pliny the Elder, at the peak of its hype some ten years ago, and that opening this box together with a group of enthusiastic beer lovers was like a near religious experience. Presumably, tough guys like these might not admit to having actual tears in their eyes, but I’m guessing it wasn’t far off by the look on his face when he recalled this profound memory.

Another friend in the beer world shared that while beers might not bring him to tears, some have given him a feeling of euphoria; he felt honoured to have drunk them. That’s true appreciation to me, not only of outstanding flavour but also of the hard work by the brewer – something that beer drinkers are not always aware of. Let’s not forget the craft in brewing.

Talking of hard-working brewers, the founder of an award-winning brewery

told me that the very first beer they released had him in tears. It was a sense of accomplishment, rather than it being an extraordinary beer, he said. This brewer’s humble pride, I can recognise. In fact, I had a similar sensation when my first article was published; it felt like a personal victory – I’m really doing this, I’m going all in on freelance writing. Or brewing, in my comrade’s case.

And then, all of a sudden, I remembered.

One particular beer at Belgian Beer Weekend in September last year made a mark. It was a fantastic beer by Lindemans, served in an elegant flute glass. To set the scene: it was a sunny day at one of the world’s best beer festivals, and I had already had a few beers in the company of a great friend. Life was good. And well…I had a bit of a moment.

Did I cry? Maybe. Or at least, I experienced utter beer happiness.

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

Photo: Unsplash, Adolfo Félix

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Food Column

Quinoa patties I’ve always loved quinoa patties. They’re a wonderful vegetarian alternative to traditional burgers, with a lovely crisp exterior and a juicy centre.

By Katharina Kjeldgaard

The best thing about them is that they can be varied endlessly with different spices and flavourings. These quinoa patties are packed with flavour from smoked paprika, garlic, tomato purée and mustard, giving them a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and slightly tangy.

Tip: You can also shape the mixture into small fritters instead of full-size patties. This recipe makes about 20–25 mini fritters, which are perfect as snacks, sides, or for lunchboxes.

Amount: 8 Easy to make Time: 40 minutes Ingredients: 175 g uncooked red quinoa 1 onion 3 cloves garlic 2 tsp ground ginger 2 tsp smoked paprika 0.5 tsp sea salt 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 40 g rolled oats 60 g wheat flour 2 eggs 2 tsp soy sauce 1 tbsp tomato purée 2 tsp dijon mustard oil for frying Instructions: 1. Cook the quinoa in lightly salted water according to the instructions on the package. Strain well once done, to remove as much liquid as possible.

2. Finely chop the onion and garlic so your quinoa patties become uniform in texture. Add the onion and garlic to a large bowl, followed by the ginger, smoked paprika, sea salt, and pepper.

3. Add the soy sauce, tomato purée, mustard, quinoa, oats, flour, and eggs.

4. Mix everything and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes.

5. Shape the patties with your hands. The mixture may be a bit sticky, but lightly wet hands to make it easier to handle. The patties will also firm up once cooked.

6. Fry the patties over medium heat in a pan with plenty of oil.

Katharina Kjeldgaard is a Danish food blogger, influencer and cookbook author from Copenhagen., Her blog is one of the most-read vegetarian food blogs in Denmark, always focused on locally sourced ingredients, full of delicious recipes and never boring. She has three little kids and loves going to markets, being in nature – and cooking with all kinds of vegetables and legumes.

Blog: beetrootbakery.dk Instagram: Beetrootbakery

7. Cook them until golden, about 3–5 minutes on each side.

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We Love This

We Love This: Alcohol-free drinks from Scandinavia Why can’t an alcohol-free gin be called gin? Simple: without alcohol, it legally loses the title. The same goes for whisky, rum, and everything else that normally warms Scandinavian hearts during the long, dark winters. Still, the region has fully embraced the rise of alcohol-free alternatives – and today some of the world’s most flavourful, award-winning ‘non-alcoholic alcohol’ comes from Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Perfect for enjoying Dry January…without actually going dry.

By Signe Hansen

Botanicals by Far & Søn Danish producer Far & Søn turns alcohol-free celebration into an art form with Botanicals, a fermented Champagne alternative made with lemongrass, kaffir lime and herbs.

Crisp, aromatic and grown-up, it uses Champagne-style fermentation to create proper complexity without the regret. Organic, vegan and ideal for guests who want “just a little fizz” – minus the alcohol.

From DKK 129 www.c.com

Barreled Oak by Gnista Spirits Swedish producer Gnista Spirits offers a bold whisky-inspired alternative with Barreled Oak, delivering smoky depth, warm spice and a satisfying oak finish. Crafted in Sweden using gastronomy and barrel-ageing techniques, it’s perfect neat, over ice or in a zeroproof cocktail. Ideal for whisky lovers who crave flavour, not foggy mornings.

SEK 229 www.gnistaspirits.com

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London Botanical Spirit by ISH Spirits ISH Spirits, one of Denmark’s leaders in mindful drinking, recreates classic gin character with juniper, coriander and Seville orange – along with a clever chilli-seed distillate for warmth. Designed for mixing, this Danish spirit makes a remarkably convincing alcohol-free G&T. Perfect for cocktail lovers who like their drinks botanical, bright and pleasantly responsible.

DKK 119 www.ishspirits.com

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SKOG by Villbrygg Norwegian producer Villbrygg captures the essence of deep Nordic woodland in SKOG, an alcohol-free drink built on wild berries, spruce shoots and herbal notes. Naturally fermented and beautifully balanced, it tastes like a walk through a Norwegian forest translated into a dinner-friendly drink. Earthy, crisp and quietly complex, SKOG is perfect for those who want something refined, food-pairing and unmistakably Nordic – without alcohol.

From NOK 159 www.villbrygg.com

LYSERØD by Copenhagen Sparkling Tea Company Denmark’s Copenhagen Sparkling Tea Company blends Oolong, Silver Needle and hibiscus into LYSERØD, a sparkling dry, pink rosé alternative that tastes as stylish as it looks. With notes of berries and apple, it delivers refreshing Nordic elegance without sweetness. Perfect with oysters or sunshine, it’s a favourite among Danes who enjoy celebrating without sacrificing their early-morning clarity.

DKK 149 www.sparklingtea.co

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Uzumé by Muri Created in Copenhagen by Danish producer Muri together with 12-Michelin-star chef Anne-Sophie Pic, Uzumé is a sparkling rosé alternative built from fermented strawberries, tomato, smoked vanilla and whey. Creamy, fruity and wonderfully surprising, it’s both nostalgic and avant-garde. Danish creativity in a glass – perfect for guests who enjoy asking; “Wait… what is this?”

DKK 229 www.muri-drinks.com

ARENSBAK Red by Arensbak ARENSBAK Red is the moody Scandinavian cousin of red wine – deep, earthy and full of personality. Built on kombucha, black tea, chokeberries and even a whisper of mushrooms, it’s complex enough to impress even the most sceptical wine-lover. Oak ageing gives it proper tannins and a long finish. Perfect with steak or creamy mushroom dishes…or for pretending you’re drinking wine while secretly behaving yourself.

DKK 149 www.arensbak.com

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Culture, coastlines and contrasts – six must-see destinations in Sweden From wine country and wandering sheep to medieval streets, deep forests and farreaching archipelagos, Sweden offers an extraordinary range of landscapes and travel experiences sprinkled with culinary delights and friendly people. Across the six destinations presented here, nature, culture and local life unfold in strikingly different ways – shaped by history, sustainability and a growing desire to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

ironworks history and untouched nature. This is the landscape where the Swedish economy once took shape, and where today’s travellers encounter vibrant flora and fauna alongside a far-reaching archipelago that stretches deep into the Baltic Sea.

By Signe Hansen

On the Bjäre peninsula and in the seaside town of Båstad, gastronomy, vineyards and coastal nature set the tone for the perfect weekend escape. Often referred to as Sweden’s wine region, the area is home to three pioneering vineyards that are challenging traditional winemaking 18

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in a Nordic climate, while the surrounding landscape offers everything from coastal walks to cultural experiences and refined dining.

Along the coast, northern Roslagen attracts with a powerful combination of

In the heart of Sweden, Ljusdal municipality in Hälsingland offers everything from adrenaline-filled outdoor adventures to living cultural heritage. This was Sweden’s first certified sustainable travel destination, and its rolling blue mountains, deep forests and rich wildlife create a playground for skiing, cycling,

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Top Destinations to Visit in Sweden, 2026

dishes, this central region blends cultural heritage and sweeping landscapes in a way that continues to define how the world imagines Sweden itself.

Finally, further south, the medieval city of Lund offers a balanced mix of historic urban life and rural escape. Cobblestone streets, museums, shopping and dining meet cycling routes, open landscapes and village charm just beyond the city edges – making Lund a gateway to both culture and countryside in one seamless experience. www.visitsweden.com Instagram: @visitsweden

hiking, fishing and foraging – alongside small towns with strong gastronomic and cultural scenes.

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From a very different starting point, the small town of Kumla has risen from its heavy industrial past and prison stigma to re-emerge as one of Sweden’s most surprising new destinations. Centrally located between Stockholm and Gothenburg, Kumla today invites visitors to explore forest hikes, golf, adventure swimming, industrial heritage, and a welcoming town centre, as well as an innovative art project that literally grows from the ashes of the industrial past.

In the very cultural heart of the country lies Dalarna, where Sweden’s traditions beat the strongest. From folklore and craftsmanship to Midsummer celebrations, red timber cottages and iconic local

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Gastronomy, culture and nature – the perfect getaway awaits in Båstad & the Bjäre peninsula During a weekend in Båstad and the Bjäre peninsula, expect a mix of extraordinary culinary, cultural and outdoor experiences. In what is called Sweden’s wine region, three vineyards are also breaking the boundaries for winemaking.

By Malin Norman

The fertile Bjäre peninsula is well known for its distinct farm-to-table identity, where quality and authenticity are at the core. The region’s restaurants offer a variety of wonderful dining experiences year-round – from exclusive fine dining to seaside bistros and cosy hideaways – where local ingredients and Scandinavian cooking take centre stage.

tique open all year round, whilst Ebbessons Gårdsmejeri offers award-winning cheeses and other culinary masterpieces, and Skafferiet på Slottet has a charming deli in Valhall Park. Lindegrens is another gem; an organic farm with its own charcuterie, bistro and boutique, which also organises courses on how to farm, compost, make sourdough and sausages, and more.

A visit to the countryside means the opportunity to buy groceries directly from the producers; eggs, new potatoes, cheese, organic meats, vegetables and berries, the list goes on. You will find everything from small carts with freshly harvested produce by the roadside to larger farm shops.

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Photo: Thora Vingård

Photo: Thora Vingård

Discover Sweden’s wine region The Bjäre peninsula is also famous for its vineyards. In fact, this is now referred to as the heart of Sweden’s winemaking.

Sitting atop a ridge with green rolling hills that border the vast sea, the peninsula’s microclimate and well-drained soil are ideal for winemaking. There are nearly 20 growers and a handful of wineries with farm sales, all driven by heaps of passion, big ambitions and innovative thinking.

Thora Winery is located between Båstad and Torekov, overlooking Halland Väderö.

Visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings, experiencing the area’s tranquillity while sampling high-quality wines from locally grown grapes such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and the typical grape in Sweden, Solaris.

Vejby Winery produces orange and red wines in various exciting styles. The vineyard offers a rare experience with its ancient Georgian-style wine cellar. During tours and tastings here, visitors can explore the rich history of winemaking.

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of the sea. It is a place where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and take in the beauty of nature. For nature lovers, spring is probably the best time of the year, with fantastic hiking opportunities along coastal trails, through rolling landscapes and forests, and over Hallandsåsen, which offers both easy hiking and more challenging routes.

Photo: Ljungbyholms Vingård

On a southern slope between Förslöv and Vejbystrand, you will find Ljungbyholm Winery. Established in 2019, Ljungbyholm grows equal amounts of blue and green grapes, from a selection of grape varieties.

World-class art on display This region is a vibrant cultural destination too, with world-class national and international art on display at galleries such as Galleri Arnstedt and Bjäre Konsthall, as well as smaller venues like Galleri Torekov, Galleri Blå, and Båstad Konstgalleri.

As spring approaches, the venues will present this year’s new exhibitions and programme of activities.

Not to be missed is RAVINEN, a vibrant meeting place for art, music, experiences and design. It is located next to Norrviken Gardens in Båstad, by the stream ravine

Kungsbygget Adventure Resort.

Photo: HOUSE of MANAO / L.& M. Lackas

that gave the cultural centre its name.

The 1,500-square-metre building houses three exhibition halls, a concert hall, educational activities, a design shop and a café & bistro.

Renowned for its beautifully themed gardens, views and luxurious parties, Norrviken Gardens has a long and colourful history. The garden was founded over 100 years ago by Rudolf Abelin, a pioneer in gardening. During a visit, you will journey from the mystical to the minimalistic and colourful. For a great day out, combine a visit to RAVINEN with a stroll around Norrviken Gardens.

Nature and tranquillity on the peninsula In Båstad and the Bjäre Peninsula, you will encounter a varied natural landscape, including stretches of coastline and dramatic rock formations with stunning views

For the ultimate weekend getaway, stay at Furuhem, an exceptional inn with a restaurant and a bakery, open from 4 March. Soeder Countryhouse & Kitchen is a boutique hotel for connoisseurs, with a wine cellar and unexpected stories and flavour combinations. And Kungsbygget’s Adventure Resort, with its modern A-frame cabin, is for those who want a personal touch.

Or why not go for a fantastic spa experience at Hovs Hallar Hotel & Restaurant, Hotel Skansen & Kallbadhuset, or Torekov Hotel. Enjoy the beauty of the peninsula, treat yourself to an exclusive wellness experience and find inner harmony.

Altogether, this makes for the perfect weekend destination. With charming hotels, luxurious spas, fantastic farm shops, restaurants and vineyards within close proximity, visitors can easily combine relaxation, nature adventures and culinary highlights – just a short journey away. bastad.com Facebook: Visit Båstad Instagram: @visitbastad

Photo: Ljungbyholms Vingård

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Österbybruk Mansion.

From deep forests to open sea Northern Roslagen attracts visitors with a rich ironworks history – this is where the Swedish economy was built – as well as a vibrant flora and fauna, and a farreaching archipelago.

By Malin Norman

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Photos: Destination Östhammar

Easily accessible, just an hour from Arlanda Airport, northern Roslagen stretches from the deep mines of Dannemora in the west to the outer archipelago islands in the east. In the north, you will find the Örskär lighthouse, and in the south is the Hargs Mill, built in the 1630s.

This region is bursting with contrasts – from a rich industrial heritage, traditional ironworks and stunning mansions, to picturesque small coastal towns and the stunning archipelago. There is room to breathe, time to explore, and freedom to move as you please. Visitors have plenty of stories to discover, tracks to follow, and traditions to experience.

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has been mined here for several hundred years. Gustav Vasa, King of Sweden 15231560, saw the importance of having access to iron for weaponry and export, and thanks to the excellent quality, it became one of Sweden’s most important exports.

The iron ore was processed by the mills in Österbybruk, Lövstabruk, Forsmark, Gimo and Harg, and then shipped as bar iron via Öregrund. Hence, it is known in the world as Öregrund iron. A visit to Österbybruk is a must, as this is one of Sweden’s best-preserved ironworks, founded in 1643. The ironworks bear witness to a bygone area, and at the Vallon Forge, you will get a vivid experience of the history of ironworking.

Today, Österbybruk is buzzing with life, with exhibitions in the manor house, a

magnificent garden and orangery, art galleries and shops, and an active community culture. For instance, you can solve riddles with the help of an audio guide where historical characters give you clues, or watch an opera performance.

Via Ferrata in Dannemora ice mine.

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Late summer and autumn reveal some of Roslagen’s finest forest trails paths.

Sunset in Öregrund.

Deep forests and exceptional hiking A highlight in northern Roslagen is the dam called Stordammen, which was built by royal order in the 17th century, when Österbysjön and Dynsjön were dammed up to form a large lake. Set off on the 14-kilometre trail which follows the historic dam embankments built to hold back the water. You will walk by the water and through forests and open marshes, whilst also experiencing history.

agricultural cultural environment, and today this is both a nature reserve and a visitor centre.

The Gimo Mill was also built in the early 17th century, and the charming buildings in the village are still reminiscent of its heyday. There are many hiking opportunities here too, such as the five-kilometre Vallon Trail, with signs of the mill’s history. If you want to go on a longer hike, a 12-kilometre loop of the Upplandsleden trail goes around the Gimo dam, starting at Hammaren.

The coastal towns of Öregrund and Östhammar both tempt with charming boutiques, cosy cafés and restaurants with sea views. Öregrund is a vibrant summer destination, where you can also watch the sun set in the sea. From here, it is easy to venture further into the archipelago to islands such as Gräsö, Örskär (the northernmost point in Roslagen) and Rävsten. In the quieter town Östhammar, you can rent a kayak and explore the archipelago. And, of course, enjoy ice cream from the Swedish champion in gelato, Schrams Gelato.

On the island of Gräsö, you can hike along winding paths, paddle amongst the many islands in the beautiful archipelago, or explore art and culture. The island carries traces of ancient settlements as well as more modern farming history. Gräsö gård is an example of a well-preserved

Coastal vibes and Roslagen’s soul Northern Roslagen is a coastal paradise, all year round. In summer, you can plunge into the sea from sun-warmed cliffs and paddle between islets and skerries. And in winter, you can glide on long-distance skates across frozen lakes.

Another recommendation is stopping by a local farm to get a taste of Roslagen, or stepping into a museum or an art gal-

lery where the contemporary meets the timeless. Explore traditions and cultural heritage, mixed with nature and exciting adventures, and learn more about Roslagen’s wild and peaceful soul.

For more information on what to see and do, check out roslagen.se roslagen.se Facebook: Destination Roslagen Instagram: @destinationroslagen Seasonal highlights: Konstpåsk – Easter Art Weekend (April), Österbybruk Mansion The historic mansion transforms into a vibrant hub for art lovers, showcasing local and regional artists in a unique cultural setting.

Music festivals & summer concerts (June-August) During the summer months, historic heritage venues such as Järnboden in Harg, the old Ånghammaren forge in Österbybruk, local churches, and openair stages come alive with a variety of music festivals and concerts.

Boat Week & Roslagsloppet World Championship Boat Race (August) August brings high energy to the coastline as Boat Week kicks off, culminating in Roslagsloppet – the world championship offshore powerboat race.

Christmas markets (from October)

Gräsö Gård. In May and June, you can see the beautiful orchid Adam and Eve.

Örskär lighthouse.

Local Christmas markets welcome visitors to atmospheric celebrations where artisans, food producers and local creators offer a festive preview of the holiday season.

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From adrenaline to cultural heritage in Hälsingland In Ljusdal municipality, you will find rolling blue mountains, deep forests and wild animals, as well adrenaline-filled activities and small towns with fantastic gastronomic experiences and inspiring culture. This is also the first in Sweden to be certified as a sustainable travel destination.

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Photos: Destination Järvsö

In the heart of Sweden sits Ljusdal municipality, in the region Hälsingland. Famous for its mysterious blue mountains and deep forests, this is a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts, with activities such as skiing – alpine and cross-country – and ice skating, snowmobile racing, downhill and road cycling, hiking, paddling and fishing, and foraging in the lush forests.

“From adventures in nature and adrenaline-filled activities to genuine cultural heritage and local traditions, you will find something interesting here all year round,” says Blanka Unger, destination developer. “Ljusdal municipality is a 24

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great destination with heaps to explore, but also with authenticity and great customer service.”

Farmhouses with World Heritage status The decorated farmhouses of Hälsingland, called Hälsingegårdar, are UNESCO World Heritage listed and an absolute must. Seven timber houses have been given this status, but in reality there are several hundred, many of which have guided tours and farm shops, and some even offer overnight stays.

Stenegård, for instance, is a grand estate in Järvsö with around fifteen well-pre-

served buildings. It hosts various cultural activities, including Hälsingland’s wooden theatre, as well as events focused on folk music, handicrafts, and local culinary traditions, but also music festivals with a modern touch. Well-known acts such as Carola, Gustaf & Viktor Norén and Digiloo have performed here, and you will also find a visitor centre for the

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UNESCO-listed Hälsingegårdar plus the Lill-Babs Museum.

The historic Stenegård also hosts the final stage of Hälsingehambon, a fantastic event in July. “Hälsingehambon is a folk dance competition where participants in folk costumes dance the traditional couple dance hambo through several stages in different villages in Hälsingland over the course of a day,” explains Unger.

But this is also a region where old folk traditions meet new. For instance, Ljusdal has been the host of Artscape, a festival where international and Swedish artists filled the town with large-scale murals, installations and sculptures.

Photo: Linda Mårtensson, Ljusdal municipality

Focus on sustainable tourism development

Meet the great big five in nature Järvsö offers plenty of exciting activities, too. In winter, alpine skiing in Järvsöbacken is a popular choice, featuring a well-known snow park and excellent child-friendly slopes with fun courses designed for young skiers. In summer, the slopes transform into Järvsö Bike Park, with trails for MTB downhill. For those who like cycling but prefer less adrenaline, the well-groomed MTB trails around and in Järvsö are a good choice. These trails are suitable for everyone, whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist.

A visit to Vildriket is bound to be a magical and memorable experience for the whole family. Encounter the wild animals of the North on their own terms, in a stunning setting; wolves, lynxes, arctic foxes, and reindeer are just a few of the animals you can meet here. Open every day of the

year, Vildriket is perfect for children, families, and anyone with a passion for animals and nature.

“During a visit in Järvsö, also check out Rovdjurscentrum (The Large Carnivore Centre), to learn more about the big five in the Nordics; wolf, bear, wolverine, lynx and humans,” says Unger. “For hiking enthusiasts, a trip to the nature reserve Järvsöklacken is the perfect day adventure. When you reach the top, you get a breathtaking view of Hälsingland’s rolling blue mountains.”

Sustainable tourism development is important in Ljusdal; in fact, the municipality is the first in Sweden to sign a cooperation development with EarthCheck.

A significant milestone was achieved in November 2021, when the municipality’s tourism industry became the first Swedish destination to be sustainability certified by EarthCheck, according to the criteria developed through the UN initiative Global Sustainable Tourism Council, GSTC. As a visitor, you will see the sustainability focus in for example the food sector.

“Several local producers as well as cafés and restaurants have local produce and use sustainable methods,” adds Unger.

“We’re proud of our local food, and tours with gastronomy in focus are increasingly popular.” visitljusdal.se

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Melanganer by Kenny Clarhäll. Part of the permanent exhibition Art on pile. Photo: Kumla Kommun (Kumla council)

Absit Omen by Kent Karlsson, part of the permanent art exhibition Art on pile.

Photo: Andreas Andersson

From oil to oasis With a dark industrial history and a stubborn prison stigma around its neck, the small town Kumla has risen – quite literally - from the ashes and replaced itself on the map as one of Sweden’s top travel destinations in 2026.

By Linnéa Mitchell

If you say “Kumla” to the general Swede, nine out of ten will reply “prison.” For many years, Kumla high security prison for Sweden’s heaviest offenders is what this tiny Swedish town was associated with – and still is. Not that it bothers the locals though – quite the opposite. “The prison is a vital employer and the work they do with the inmates is a great example of taking societal responsibility,” says Johanna Uddling, site developer at Kumla local council, who describes the town as “community strong,” “offering the unexpected” and “accessible.”

Located pretty much right in between Stockholm and Gothenburg, Kumla is easy to reach and offers much to explore – from forest hikes, golf and an adventure swimming pool to a rich industrial heritage shaped by cobblers and stonemasons, not to mention a welcoming town centre with shops, restaurants and cafés.

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popular stop for holiday makers – young families as well as seniors – many even end up settling here.

Towering above it all is the impressive Kvarntorpshögen just outside Kumla, a 100-metre-high hill rising above the town offering fantastic views over the plains of Närke county. The mound consists of the waste left behind from the shale-oil production that took place here during the Second World War, when the area was a smelly, sooty and generally unpleasant place to live – grimly nicknamed ‘furnace hell’. In true Kumla spirit, two artists decided to make gold out of misery and be-

gan transforming the top of the huge pile into an art garden called Konst på hög (Art on pile), now attracting 30,000 visitors annually and exhibiting some of the country’s biggest artists, such as the late Lars Wilks. “Not what you expect from a town of 23,000 inhabitants, but that’s us – we view challenges as possibilities,” says Uddling.

To descend, you can either wander down Europe’s largest wooden staircase of 427 steps – or ski down in the winter, when the hill turns into a ski slope. And, when hunger kicks in, simply turn to the large number of restaurants that the area has to offer, including a very popular and award-winning one. Undoubtably, you will run into a friendly local. www.visitkumla.se Facebook: Visit Kumla Instagram: @visit.kumla

The transformation from ”hell on Earth” to the beautiful place Kumla is today. Photo: Kumla Kommun (Kumla council)

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The cultural heart of Sweden In Dalarna, Sweden’s heart beats the strongest. Here, culture and nature come together in perfect harmony, with local traditions every bit as vibrant as the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

ence Sámi culture, watch reindeer wander freely on the mountains, and savour traditional food.

By Malin Norman

The world’s biggest and oldest cross-country ski race, Vasaloppet, also takes place in Dalarna, every year on the first Sunday in March. And for an extra hit of adrenaline, a different world is hidden in the village of Tuna Hästberg. “Adventuremine is a popular visitor attraction; the old mine features a Via Ferrata climb, a sauna 80 metres underground, and different events,” Summermatter sums up.

“The variety in Dalarna makes this the perfect destination, with so many different kinds of experiences – from culture to nature – all year round.”

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Photos: Anna Holm, Visit Dalarna

To explore the rich cultural heritage of Sweden, from fascinating folklore to genuine craftsmanship, head to the region of Dalarna. Nestled in the middle of the country, this is the place to experience magic Midsummer celebrations, see charming red cottages and try authentic culinary delights such as the U-shaped Falu sausage.

“Dalarna is the beating heart of Sweden, and many traditions have their roots here,” says Tatjana Summermatter, travel trade manager at Visit Dalarna. “The folklore tradition is strong, and the colourful folk costumes are worn on festive occasions such as Midsummer’s Eve – a magical night celebrated in every village in Dalarna.”

The world’s most famous horse, the hand-carved and hand-painted Dala horse, also origins here, dating back to the 18th century. The original horse was hand crafted in the village of Nusnäs, and

at local producers Nils Olsson Dalahästar and Grannas you can see how they are still made. “These wooden horses are carved and painted by hand, which makes every piece unique. And it’s fascinating that you can find them in homes across the world,” says Summermatter.

The history behind the red hue on traditional cottages can be traced back to Falun, where byproducts from the copper mine were transformed into a durable pigment. The paint has coloured Sweden red for over 250 years and is still popular.

When visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Falun, you can enjoy a guided tour of the mine and learn more about the special red paint.

www.visitdalarna.se Facebook: Visit Dalarna Instagram: @visitdalarnasweden

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Explore the surroundings of Lund In Lund, it is easy to combine a lively urban atmosphere with cycling excursions, nature experiences and rural charm. Venture beyond the historic city centre to explore the gems beyond the obvious.

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Photos: Visit Lund

The medieval city of Lund, with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, is known for its rich history and culture, as well as a buzzing city life with fantastic museums, shopping and culinary offerings. But nature is always close by, and excursions in the surroundings can easily be combined with city life.

In short, there is a lot to explore in and around Lund.

Within walking and cycling distance is Sweden’s smallest national park, Dalby Söderskog. It was established in 1918 to

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After exploring the national park and other nearby nature reserves, enjoy a tasty lunch or dinner at the historic Dalby Gästis, an inn dating back to 1666. The talented kitchen team takes inspiration from the world’s different cuisines and uses ingredients from the local area.

Prästaskogen and Torna Hällestad Lanthandel Hiking around Prästapromenaden is also a must. These trails take you through the Prästaskogen nature reserve. You can choose between a short, easier, circular route and a longer one. The hike goes over pastures with mighty oaks and wide views, through swamp forests and magical beech forests. You also have the possibility to extend the hike to the Skåneleden route at Skrylleslingan, with lots of outdoors activities.

Dalby and Sweden’s smallest national park Set your sights on the small town of Dalby.

This is home to the oldest preserved stone church in the Nordics, dating back to the 11th century, with beautiful surroundings and a wonderful view towards the city of Lund. Interestingly, Dalby church was the seat of a bishop for a short time, Egino from Germany, but he was eventually moved to Lund Cathedral.

preserve what was then described as a southern Swedish deciduous forest.

Torna Hällestad Lanthandel.

When in this area, also check out Torna Hällestad Lanthandel. This is a fantastic shop, bakery, restaurant and café based

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For the adventurous, there are three mountain bike trails: Häckeberga, Björnstorp and Risen. From Ekevallen’s parking lot in Genarp, you can reach all three trails. Of the three, Häckeberga is the longest and takes you around Lake Häckeberga.

Sweden’s eight biosphere reserve All of these places are included in the new Storkriket Biosphere Reserve, which is a 110,000-hectare, mostly flat area surrounded by ridges to the north and south. It has open landscapes, light forests, winding rivers and sandy lake beaches, and a mix of old roadside villages and modern urban settings.

Häckeberga. Photo: Lunds Kommun

on local, sustainably produced ingredients. It serves coffee, lunch of the day, and brunch on weekends. Torna Hällestad also hosts events throughout the year, such as concerts, Oktoberfest, a Christmas market, and more.

Häckeberga: colourful castle on an island On an island in the middle of the Häckeberga nature reserve outside Genarp lies Häckeberga Castle. Here, all the senses are engaged from the moment you step inside the door. Beautiful patterns, surprising details, antiques, art and beautiful textiles in exotic draperies meet the

eye in a colourful sensuality that brings to mind Arabian Nights and Alice in Wonderland. You can also stay the night, for an unforgettable hotel experience.

In Häckeberga, this is where Romeleåsen meets the plains. The landscape is undulating with lush forests and flowering pastures. It bears traces of both mill environments and kings. At the same time, the unusual tree frog and leatherback beetle have found a sanctuary here.

Vattenmöllan is a good starting point for hiking. This reserve is part of a larger outdoor recreation area on Romeleåsen and around Lake Häckeberga.

The Skåneleden trail runs through Storkriket and there are a number of country roads suitable for cyclists.

UNESCO has designated Storkriket as Sweden’s eighth biosphere reserve, and it is now part of a worldwide network of places where people and nature interact for a sustainable future. visitlund.se Facebook: Visit Lund Instagram: @visitlund If you are curious to find out more, check out visitlund.se

Dalby Gästis. Photo: Katie Driscoll

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Photo: Signe Find Larsen, signefind.com

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Perry Stenbäck: Modernising the sound of Scandinavia Named one of the best guitar players in Denmark, Perry Stenbäck won the Danish Folk Music Prize in 2025 together with his wife Christine Dueholm. Scan Magazine catches up with the Swedish musician, who is based in Denmark, on the recent folk music award, his bands and many side projects.

By Malin Norman

Born in Stockholm but living in Gadbjerg, between Jelling and Give in Denmark, Perry Stenbäck is an advocate for modernising the sound of Scandinavia.

The singer, songwriter, guitarist and fiddler (the instrument nyckelharpa) has no less than four bands and countless productions in collaboration with other musicians.

Perry performs with his own music but also tours with, for instance, the immensely popular Danish singer, guitarist and songwriter Sebastian and, most recently, with singer-songwriter Henrik Huldén from Finland.

“Growing up in Stockholm in the 1970s, my parents were part of the music scene; my father played folk music, and my mother loved to sing Swedish ballads, called visor,” Perry says. “When studying music at Södra Latin, my ambition was to become a guitar hero, but when I did my Master’s Degree in music performance at RMC (Rhythmic Music Conservatory) in Copenhagen, I realised that my unique quality was more related to the Nordic folk music.”

Specialising in the folk music and songwriter tradition, Perry also plays everything from classical, blues and

jazz to country and hard rock. His biggest inspiration is Cornelis Vreeswijk, the Dutch-Swedish singer-songwriter known for reforming the Swedish ballad.

“Folk music and the visa tradition are my main focus, but I happily mix this with Jimi Hendrix,” he smiles.

Multiple Danish music awards As early as 1984, Perry did his first performance on stage as a professional musician. The 40th anniversary was celebrated in his garden in 2024 with a few hundred guests. Named as one of the best guitar players in Denmark, Perry has won the prestigious Danish Music Awards (Grammy) twice, in 2009 and 2019, and was nominated once again last year.

In 2025, he was awarded the Danish Folk Music Award (Den Danske Folkemusikpris), presented at Skagen Festival, together with music partner and wife Christine Dueholm. Previous winners include Buffy Sainte-Marie, The Dubliners and Danish folk rocker Lars Lilholt.

Only one Swedish musician has won this award before: Mikael Wiehe in 1998.

“It’s quite unusual, and a great honour, to win this Danish music award as a Swede, who also writes and performs in Swedish,” says Perry. “In this way, I’m further advocating the Swedish folk music and visa tradition.”

Dekadans, Bragr and Weltmeister Syndicate The productive musician’s main project is his band Perry Stenbäck & Dekadans, where he performs his own songs and interpretations of Cornelis Vreeswijk, for instance. The band has produced two albums so far – Kärlek och felsteg

Perry Stenbäck & Dekadans.

Photo: Signe Find Larsen, signefind.com

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Perry in the Danish power blues and roots band Weltmeister Syndicate. Photo: Perry Stenbäck

and Just nu – plus a concert DVD. A new album is in the works and will be released later this year.

“For the new album, I’m working with songwriter Jimmy Ginsby on translating and modernising the lyrics from old American folk music,” says Perry. “One song is about a man who travels between Chicago and New Orleans. In my version, a man travels from Sweden to Denmark and experiences a lot of things on the way – it’s a story about finding your way home.”

Perry also keeps busy with Weltmeister Syndicate, a Danish power blues/roots/ rock quartet, as well as Bragr, which plays contemporary Scandinavian folk music with both traditional tunes and original compositions. During concerts, the band presents the melodies with humorous anecdotes and interesting stories about the old fiddlers, from whom they inherited the material, bringing the music to life.

“It’s important with storytelling and musical emotions,” confirms Perry. “With Bragr, our ambition is to move people, both emotionally and physically. We want to show people attending our concerts that this genre isn’t just tradition but, on the contrary, a vibrant mix of beautiful melodies and acoustic heavy metal from the 17th and 18th century. On top of that, we also bring in our own compositions, written in the traditional style.”

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In 2025, Perry won the Danish Folk Music Prize together with music partner and wife Christine Dueholm. Photo: Perry Stenbäck

Family band and songs for Simon Together with wife Christine, son Robert and the son’s girlfriend Smilla, Perry has a band called Familjebandet (The Family Band). “We’re going on smaller tours in Sweden, Norway and Denmark – and this year, we’re also going to France for the second time,” he says. “I’m not a fan of beach holidays; I would much rather work, play music and meet the audience.

This is a fantastic way to experience different countries, together with my family, when we also have a real purpose with our journey.”

Not surprisingly, Perry is involved in plenty of other projects and has his own recording studio in the family’s large house

in Gadbjerg. “Over the years, I must have taken part in over 200 recordings, including the theme song for the Netflix series Vikings: Valhalla,” he laughs.

After the couple lost their youngest son, Simon, in a traffic accident five years ago, Christine wrote an album called Sange til Simon, which was produced by Perry in the family’s studio. “Our passion is music, and it’s an important driving force in everything we do, including processing grief,” reflects Perry. “Music is universal, and we’re hoping that others can find comfort and joy, too.”

For more info and news, take a look at perrystenback.com

With Bragr, Perry plays contemporary Scandinavian folk music. Photo: Perry Stenbäck

M

CL TH ini T AS E B hem IN SIC EST e: NO AL O RW MU F AY SIC

Left: Arctic Philharmonic on Svalbard. The orchestra has visited Svalbard on several occasions and is one of the initiators of the Arctic Chamber Music Festival, held annually in Longyearbyen each February. Photo: Yngve Olsen. Right: From the performance Rækvved. A collaboration between the dance company Kartellet and Arctic Philharmonic’s chamber orchestra, where northern Norwegian folk music, dance, and play merge into a new artistic expression. Photo: Vidar Thorbjørnsen.

Arctic identity and international horizons – meet the world’s most northern orchestra Stretching across the two largest cities of Norway’s northernmost region, the Arctic Philharmonic is a rare constellation in the orchestral world: one ensemble, rooted in Bodø and Tromsø, shaped by high ambitions, Nordic heritage and an outward-looking artistic identity. Its mission is firmly northern, yet its musical language reflects the world. From major symphonic productions to intimate chamber performances, the orchestra offers a cultural presence as expansive as the landscape it inhabits.

with international star soloist Leia Zhu and conductor Samuel Lee, illustrating how the Arctic Philharmonic places its northern roots in conversation with a broader global context. “We belong to the Nordic world, but we mirror ourselves in the whole world,” stresses Berg.

By Signe Hansen

Founded in 2009, the story of the Arctic Philharmonic began with a bold ambition: to build a professional ensemble north of the Arctic Circle that could serve an entire region while standing confidently on the international stage. Structured as a sinfonietta in Bodø and a chamber orchestra in Tromsø, the orchestra join forces 8–10 times a year as a full symphony orchestra.

“The most important thing for us is to be able to meet regularly to create large symphonic productions in both cities,” explains director Trud Berg.

This dual structure is a defining characteristic of the orchestra, enabling a remarkable flexibility of expression. Another lies in its commitment to Nordic identity – not as something fixed, but as something to be explored and renewed. The upcoming Nordic Elegance concert (1213 March) is a clear example, highlighting lesser-known Nordic composers and artists. “All orchestras can play the major international repertoire; we do that too,”

says Berg. “But we also feel responsible for lifting Nordic, Norwegian and North Norwegian works and showing what is distinctive here.” This responsibility also encompasses a strong commitment to promoting and presenting Sámi and Kven culture and music. “Sápmi is a part of who we are, and we want to make sure both Sámi and Kven culture is a part of the future of our art form,” says Berg.

Alongside their strong sense of home, the Arctic Philharmonic also has an international outlook. In April, The New World concert will bring the orchestra together Director Trud Berg.

Photo: Marius Fiskum

Equally central is the orchestra’s extensive work with children and young people, who make up around a third of its annual activity, including concerts in schools and kindergartens. They also strive to bring their music to communities throughout Northern Norway, as well as touring nationally and internationally. “We must offer culture to large and small places,” Berg stresses. “It is a fantastic opportunity to bring life into communities and create joy.”

One such place is Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Each February, the Arctic Philharmonic take part in the Arctic Chamber Music Festival on Svalbard, which the orchestra co-founded in 2018. The festival is the northernmost chamber music festival, where Nordic identity, new music and international artistry meet in one extraordinary landscape. www.arktiskfilharmoni.no Facebook: arktiskfilharmoni Instagram: @arktiskfilharmoni January 2026

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Oslo String Quartet: Geir Inge Lotsberg, Liv Hilde Klokk-Bryhn, Magnus Boye Hansen and Øystein Sonstad. Photo: Andrej Grilc

Celebrate 35 years of Oslo String Quartet In the rarefied world of chamber music, the string quartet has always held a special place. It is an arena where four voices meet in an intimacy that cannot quite be explained. To play in a string quartet is to live inside a deeply intense centuries-old tradition shaped by musical giants like Haydn, Beethoven and Bartók, and few quartets survive more than a few years. To sustain one for over three decades, however, is a feat of artistic devotion.

By Celina Tran

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This year, Oslo String Quartet marks its 35th anniversary. A journey that has been both demanding and profoundly rewarding. Since the foundation of the ensemble in 1991, the quartet – Geir Inge Lotsberg (violin), Liv Hilde Klokk-Bryhn (violin), Magnus Boye Hansen (viola) and Øystein Sonstad (cello) – has grown into one of Scandinavia’s most respected ensembles.

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The story began in Oslo on 6 April in 1991, when a group of young musicians stepped in for an ensemble that suddenly could not perform. Their first concert took place in Gamle Logen; the first notes were Mozart.

“We were still students,” says Sonstad, who co-founded the group with Lotsberg, Per Kristian Skalstad (violin), and Are Sandbakken (viola). “We didn’t know

exactly what it was, but we felt something. That rapport between four players is everything in a string quartet.”

Three decades later, that instinct has proven correct. Oslo String Quartet have performed across Scandinavia, Europe and the United States, gaining acclaim at Wigmore Hall, Carnegie Hall, and at the Schleswig-Holstein Festival. The recordings of Grieg and Carl Nielsen earned international praise, and the repertoire has made them a beloved fixture on the Nordic chamber scene.

A playground for risk If classical string quartets often appear bound by tradition, the Oslo String

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The first release, Learn to Wait, featuring Nils Henrik Asheim’s music, was nominated for Spellemannsprisen, a Norwegian Grammy of sorts. The newest album, released in late 2025, revisits the Norwegian repertoire through Christian Sinding’s Piano Quintet, a major work seldom recorded.

In addition to the record label, the quartet continues to push boundaries and express their creative freedom through their annual mini-festivals, which they have been arranging since 2023. Each OSQ festival serves as a musical playground and features a strong conceptual frame: Ligeti in 2023, Ravel in 2024, and in 2025, a celebration of Nadia Boulanger and patron Elisabeth Sprague Coolidge.

The Best of Classical Music in Norway

he says. “It’s incredibly exposed, but that’s what makes it beautiful.”

Quartet have spent 35 years quietly (and sometimes loudly) pushing at the boundaries. Sonstad, the group’s resident arranger, has expanded their sound world to include everything from Duke Ellington and ABBA to Dave Brubeck and PSY. For the string quartet, this independence is not about controlling outcomes but about expanding possibilities. “We wanted to shape things ourselves,” says Klokk-Bryhn. “Taking control of our own creative freedom is important to us, both in the musical performances and otherwise, so in 2024, we took a step further and launched our own record label, OSQ.”

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Their 2026 festival, held on 28 February at Kulturkirken Jakob, will be their most ambitious yet. Titled simply “35,” it is a journey through the quartet’s past, present and future. “We start with the very first notes we ever played, Mozart,” says Lotsberg, “then we highlight milestones, new music that matters to us now, and works from that point forward.”

Compared to an orchestra, where a single conductor speaks, a quartet is a democratic form where everything you do affects the result. This has helped them navigate decades together, balancing personal commitments, travel, recording projects and an ever-expanding repertoire. They have premiered new works, revived forgotten Norwegian composers, and even ventured into film, opera and humorous video series, most recently The Corona Mystery, which drew attention across social media for its witty take on pandemic life. “Not many ensembles are as versatile as we are,” Sonstad says.

“Classical at the highest level, but we’re not afraid to be silly, either.”

The intimacy of a quartet

For all their achievements, OSQ retains a forward-looking energy. They recorded two albums in 2025 alone, continue to commission new works, and devote significant time to school concerts and outreach. As they enter their 35th year, the Oslo String Quartet stands as a reminder of what the classical tradition can be: rigorous yet alive, historically grounded yet evolving. Here is to 35 years gone by and another 35 to come.

In the words of Sonstad, a quartet can be described as a bare structure in which each member carries their own line. “If one falters, the whole thing collapses,”

www.stringquartet.com Facebook: Oslo String Quartet Instagram: @oslostringquartet

The future-facing section even embraces artificial intelligence, with visuals projected onto the church walls. “We’ve always dared to try new things,” Hansen says.

“The festival is the perfect space for that.”

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N IA G E iT in W LS M R A NO TIV P S TO FE e:

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Acoustic festival concert at the Hamnanova mountain in Jølster. Photo: Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord

Førdefestivalen: Folk, fjords and foot-tapping fun In the heart of Sunnfjord, where fjords, forests, and mountains frame every horizon, July brings a special energy. It is the week when music enthusiasts, families, culture-seekers, and curious first-timers gather for Scandinavia’s biggest celebration of folk and world music: Førdefestivalen.

By Celina Tran Kjøsnesfjorden kayaking.

Photo: Visit Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord

“Førdefestivalen is an international folk music festival, the biggest in Scandinavia and the Nordics. It runs for five days in July with around 80 programme events, 30 different stages and 300 volunteers,” says festival director Sølvi Lien. “This year, we celebrate our 36th anniversary!”

Built gradually over decades, the festival has grown from a local idea into an international cultural landmark. Today, it welcomes 17,000–20,000 visitors annually – seasoned folk-lovers and curious newcomers alike. “The festival grew out of the local folk music community – the fiddlers’ and youth associations – and brick by brick, it’s become the international festival it is today,” Lien adds.

Førde is located a few hours north of Bergen, and is easily reached by car or bus

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The festival’s largest venue seats almost 2,000 people.

Photo: Lieve Boussauw

along scenic routes that wind through fjords and mountain passes. Once you arrive, everything is close: the festival venues, the river running through town, and nature trails that begin just minutes from the centre.

Music you do not hear anywhere else Part of Førdefestivalen’s magic lies in the many musical experiences that audiences are unlikely to encounter anywhere else. Each year, the programme is curated with a clear purpose: to sur-

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Marja Mortenson, one of Norway’s foremost Sámi artists.

Photo: Lieve Boussauw

prise, broaden horizons, and showcase artistry far beyond the mainstream.

“The musicians who come here play at important and well-known festivals and stages all over the world, but they don’t play at many – or any – other festivals in Norway or Scandinavia,” says Lien. “Our diversity is intentional.”

The festival seeks artists who carry rare traditions, distinctive soundscapes and stories rooted in heritage. What elevates

Førdefestivalen even further is how the music interacts with the landscape.

Concerts spill beyond indoor stages into nature, creating intimate encounters with both culture and the wild beauty of western Norway. “Our location is unique, which allows nature and culture to go hand in hand,” says Lien.

One moment you might hear a haunting solo in a historic wooden room; the next, you could be following a fiddle tune along a forest path or listening to foreign rhythms blend with the sound of the river. The result is a festival that feels less like a series of concerts and more like a curated cultural journey through landscapes, communities, and traditions from across the world.

Pair music with west coast adventure Because the festival takes place at the height of summer, many visitors extend their stay to explore Sunnfjord’s dramatic surroundings. Sunnfjord is a landscape shaped by time, culture and nature, and part of it is now recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark within the Fjord Coast Regional and Geopark.

The glacier Haugabreen is easily accessible. Photo: Visit Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord

For hikers, the region offers everything from gentle forest walks to demanding climbs that reward you with sweeping views over mountains, lakes, and fjords.

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One of the region’s greatest highlights is Haugabreen Glacier, where you can experience the ice up close inside Jostedalsbreen National Park.

Jølster, an area nearby, is also known for its breathtaking landscape and cultural heritage. With plenty of museums and historic sites tucked away in the scenery, you can walk in the footsteps of artist Nikolai Astrup and experience the very same natural impressions that shaped his art.

Whether you prefer scaling dramatic cliffs or are happy to just trot around Førde’s coastal villages, Sunnfjord’s variety makes it easy to combine outdoor adventure with late-night concerts. It is a rare opportunity to pair global culture with Norwegian wilderness in a single trip.

The Finnish accordionist Antti Paalanen lifted the roof at Larris Scene, one of the many venues at the festival.

Photo: Lieve Boussauw

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2026: peace Every edition of Førdefestivalen is built around a theme that reflects the cultural moment. This year focuses on positivity in a time marked by uncertainty and division, aiming to remind audiences of what unites us. “We felt that peace as a topic was not only relevant, but necessary.

We’re used to bringing people together through music, but now more than ever is it particularly important,” says Lien.

At Førdefestivalen, the thematic focus is both symbolic and action-oriented. The festival has long championed artistic freedom, representation, and cultural diversity. It does not simply showcase traditions, but also creates space for voices that are often unheard. In some cases, offering an artist a stage becomes a quiet act of activism.

The view from the Hamnanova mountain is breathtaking.

Photo: Visit Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord

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The Norwegian vocal trio, Hekate, sing traditional dance tunes in the Sogn og Fjordane Art Museum.

Photo: Lieve Boussauw

“Our purpose is to highlight the many different music traditions of the world, and we often have around 25 countries represented,” she says. “We also give stage to people whose voices are being silenced, such as some female musicians in Iran, and in that way open people’s horizons and create greater diversity.”

Here, music becomes a language of resilience, a bridge across borders and a tool for visibility. It is a reminder that culture does not just entertain; it empowers.

This dedication to global representation brings enormous variety to the programme each year. Audiences arrive with curiosity and leave with a sense of connection to people and places they might never have encountered otherwise.

www.fordefestival.no Facebook: Førdefestivalen Instagram: @fordefestival www.fjordkysten.no Facebook: Fjordkysten og Sunnfjord Instagram: @fjordkysten Festival dates 1–5 July, 2026

How to get to Førde To get to Førde, you can fly to Bergen Airport, Flesland, or directly from Oslo Airport Gardermoen to Førde or Florø Airport. From Bergen, it is possible to drive or get the bus.

For more information and travel inspiration, visit www.fjordnorway.com/ en/attractions/forde

Perhaps most exciting are the new artistic collaborations that emerge in Førde – performances and projects that exist nowhere else in the world. These live cultural collisions often spark unexpected magic: genre-blending experiments, new soundscapes, and one-off concerts that audiences will never experience again.

Lien concludes: “I’m very excited about all the new productions that will come from this, all the musical encounters where culture and traditions from across the world meet!”

Votia from Réunion joined the dancing audience.

Photo: Arve Ullebø

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Gospelfest 2026: The choir is back Have you always wanted to join a choir but never found the courage to? This year’s Gospelfest might be your chance. Here, you can join hundreds of other participants, from your local librarian to Grammy-nominated gospel musicians, and celebrate the power of music.

Photo: Svein Robert Solberg

This year, Gospelfest evolves into three separate events, spreading the gospel magic across Norway: 6–8 March in Oslo, 13–15 March in Bergen, and 17–19 April in Trondheim.

By Celina Tran

There is something almost magical about a group of people singing together. The body relaxes, the heart lifts, and a sense of community pulses through every note.

Standing in a choir, voices intertwining, your shoulders drop, stress melts away, and for a moment, the world narrows to rhythm, harmony, and joy. That is the experience at Gospel Explosion, Norway’s premier gospel choir project, where hundreds of singers come together to create something greater than themselves.

Founded by Leif Ingvald Skaug in 2015, Gospel Explosion has grown into a nationwide celebration of gospel music, uniting singers across cities and generations. “There’s a lot of joy and unity in 40

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gospel music,” Skaug says. “Building a community is important to us. And singing in a choir has excellent health-promoting benefits – it brings joy, and you spend time with other people who love music. Nobody is left out, and your only risk is making new friends.”

Aril Schøld. Photo: Svein Robert Solberg

The first two cities will host Grammy-nominated Ricky Dillard, one of the world’s finest gospel conductors, who brings singers and musicians from New G, alongside Skaug and Aril Schøld from Stavanger Gospel Company. Trondheim will feature British artists and conductors Volney Morgan and Stephanie Sounds, together with Skaug, leading the choir in a grand finale at Olavshallen. It will be an intense, first-time experience for the Trondheim stage also welcoming Kine L Fossheim and Knut Anders Sørum, some of Scandinavia’s powerful singers.

“Just gathering people across borders and getting them to sing is huge in itself,” Skaug says. “The festivals are open to anyone who loves to sing. There are no

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auditions, no barriers; only an invitation to join, to lift your voice, and to feel the music wash over you.”

The benefits of singing together The sensory experience of Gospel Explosion is immersive. Imagine walking into a rehearsal hall buzzing with anticipation, where hundreds of singers arrange themselves in rows, waiting for a conductor’s signal. When the first chords strike, there is magic. More than anything, there is a physical thrill in being part of hundreds of voices, a collective heartbeat of sound.

As much as it is about performance and community, singing is also about well-being. Research shows that singing releases endorphins, reduces stress, strengthens memory, and even lowers blood pressure. Participants often leave rehearsals feeling lighter, happier, and more connected than when they arrived. “Harmony is not created with a single voice, it’s born when many voices unite,” says Skaug.

The festival also fosters human connection beyond music. Meals, workshops, and informal gatherings allow singers to share stories, swap tips, and build friendships that last far beyond the stage.

Gospel Explosion’s family of choirs in Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Indre

Leif igvald. Photo: Gospel Explosion

Photo: Morten Wanvik

Østfold comprises hundreds of regular members, but the festival always welcomes newcomers, offering a unique opportunity to experience gospel on an electrifyingly epic scale. “Everybody should try singing in a gospel choir during their lifetime, it’s a truly special experience,” Skaug says.

Beyond the music, Gospel Explosion is about spreading hope, joy, and peace.

The word gospel itself means good news, and through these festivals, participants experience that message firsthand in every note sung and moment shared. It is a festival that nourishes both the body and the soul, and one where the act of singing becomes a cel-

ebration of life, connection, and collective energy.

For those who have ever wanted to experience the thrill of being part of a choir, Gospel Explosion offers the perfect opportunity. Whether in Oslo, Bergen or Trondheim, the invitation is simple: join the choir, lift your voice, and feel the joy that comes from singing together. And if you are not interested in singing but still want to enjoy the music, simply come and enjoy the concert at the end of each Gospelfest! www.gospelexplosion.no Facebook: Gospel Explosion Instagram: @gospelexplosion_norway

Stephanie Sounds with choir. Photo: Morten Wanvik

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Reykjavik City Theatre (Borgarleikhúsið), The Seagull.

Photo: Grimur Bjarnason

Inside Tampere region’s remarkably diverse festival scene The Tampere region hosts an exceptionally diverse array of festivals, highlighting its vibrant creative pulse, from medieval music and contemporary art to puppetry, dance and theatre.

The full programme will be published in February and will include concerts, sound art, exhibitions and a seminar by the Society of Finnish Composers. Audiences can also take part in a sound walk on the Pyynikki ridge, where they can listen to a historical story alongside a composition created specifically for the experience. Another highlight is Tampere Philharmonic Orchestra’s concert, featuring world premieres of new works

by Finnish composers.

By Ndéla Faye

Tampere, situated in Finland’s scenic Lakeland, is a city of contrasts: industrial heritage and technological innovation meet serene nature and vibrant cultural life. Tampere Region Festivals exemplifies the region’s cultural pulse with a diverse line-up of events that brings together music, theatre, dance and visual arts, which reflect the region’s unique blend of creativity.

A bold celebration of new music at Tampere Biennale Kicking off the spring season, Tampere Biennale – held from 15 to 19 April – celebrates its 40th anniversary this year with a 42

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dazzling programme curated by composer Minna Leinonen, its artistic director.

Future sounds of jazz Pianist Ville Hautakangas’ Ville’s Night Music – Nocturnes for Piano encourages audiences to bring their own pillows to the performance.

Photo: Tampere Biennale

The 45th Tampere Jazz Happening invites fans of modern jazz and improvised music to experience cutting-edge performances. Scheduled for All Saints’ Day weekend, from 29 October to 1 Novem-

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After each performance, the festival hosts its signature Jälkilöyly (Afterheat) discussions, where audiences can reflect on the work together with performers and creative teams.

Tampere’s annual celebration of theatre Every August, Tampere Theatre Festival transforms the city into the Nordic region’s largest and longest-running celebration of theatre. For over 50 years, the festival has showcased the most compelling Finnish productions alongside acclaimed international guest performances, creating a vibrant meeting place for professionals, enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

KATOAVA-kollektiivi. Photo: Eero Koistinen

ber, the festival’s programme, curated by new artistic director Martyna van Nieuwland, will be announced in September.

“Tampere Jazz Happening is for anyone who wants to experience the most forward-looking jazz in an intimate, energetic setting,” says Minnakaisa Kuivalainen, executive director of Tampere Music Festivals.

Fresh takes on contemporary dance From 19 to 25 May 2026, the contemporary dance festival Tampere Dance Current offers audiences a chance to expe-

Person looking at Maailmanpuhaltaja

by Tommi Toija. Photo: Marko Marin

rience current and boundary-pushing works of contemporary dance. Known for its fresh perspectives and openness to experimentation, the festival invites both long-time dance enthusiasts and first-time visitors to explore new ways of seeing the world and interpreting human experience.

“This year’s programme will be announced in March, but as always, audiences can expect a diverse range of performances and the chance to engage directly with artists,” says the festival’s managing director, Anniina Kumpuniemi.

At the heart of the festival is its artistically ambitious Main Programme, curated by a professional selection team and complemented by a rich array of side events. The Main Programme is announced in May, and audiences can expect a dynamic mix of contemporary theatre, unexpected encounters and open-air performances.

“In addition to ticketed shows, there are free events, including street theatre and circus, that bring the art form out into the city and invite everyone to take part,” says Tiina Hurskainen, head of PR and marketing at Tampere Theatre Festival.

Puppetry without borders Since 1999, MUKAMAS – International Puppet Theatre Festival has brought

Macbeth Muet – La Fille Du Laitier (Canada).

Photo: Sophie Gagnon-Bergeron & La Fille du Laitier

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the Serlachius Museum, the festival brings world-class pianists close to their audience, offering intimate recitals that linger in memory.

Since 1999, the festival has attracted both Finnish and international music lovers and showcased rising stars alongside established names. “Mänttä offers a unique blend of music, history and nature that makes the experience truly special,” says Anni Pokki, Mänttä Music Festival’s director.

The Mänttä Music Festival is held at Serlachius Manor, a museum in the cultural landscape of Mänttä.Photo: Ville Hautakangas

world-class puppetry to Tampere, making it Finland’s oldest festival dedicated to the art form. From 16 to 20 September 2026, the biennial event returns for its 14th edition, continuing MUKAMAS’ founding ethos of keeping “windows open to Europe” and inviting international artistry to Finnish stages.

Over the years, the festival has welcomed acclaimed companies and performers from 20 countries – ranging from Spain and Japan to Canada, Slovenia and the Czech Republic – alongside leading Finnish puppet theatres. Its programme spans performances for both children and adults, complemented by open workshops, lectures and concerts that encourage audiences to explore the many dimensions of puppetry.

31 August, and is curated by award-winning art critic Leena Kuumola.

The festival’s eye-catching setting – in a converted factory building near the landmark Mänttä mill chimneystack – adds to its uniqueness. “The festival attracts both art professionals and general audiences seeking to be surprised, challenged and moved,” says the festival’s director, Sampsa Virkajärvi.

Unforgettable piano recitals surrounded by art and nature Also in the town of Mänttä-Vilppula, the Mänttä Music Festival (28 July to 1 August 2026) is a jewel among Finland’s piano festivals. Set against the breathtakingly beautiful nature surrounding

Boris Giltburg, among others, will feature at the upcoming 2026 festival, while past performers include Seong-Jin Cho, Gabriela Montero, Beatrice Rana, Marc-André Hamelin and Kirill Gerstein.

Step back into the Iron Age From 4 to 5 July 2026 in the historic Reippi area of Pirkkala, about a 20-minute drive from Tampere, the Iron Age Birckala event immerses visitors into the late Iron Age. The event’s special focus is on Viking-era traditions inspired by archaeological discoveries in the region.

The programme features workshops, battle shows, traditional crafts, guided tours, expert lectures and ancient music, while performers and market vendors bring the era to life in authentic period attire. Only handmade goods from natural materials are sold, enhancing the immersive experience. “It’s an event where

“The beauty of MUKAMAS lies in its diversity: each production brings something new to audiences, and opens doors into different worlds,” says festival director Mansi Stycz.

A journey into Finnish contemporary art Just over an hour’s drive from Tampere, in the town of Mänttä-Vilppula, the Mänttä Art Festival is one of Finland’s leading summer exhibitions of contemporary art.

Founded in 1993, the festival is known for its distinctive concept: each year, a new curator reimagines the exhibition from the ground up, giving the event a constantly shifting, sharply contemporary voice. The 2026 edition is happening from 14 June to 44

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The Iron Age Birckala event focuses on Viking-era traditions, inspired by archaeological discoveries in the region. Photo: Opa Latvala

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history truly comes alive and visitors can feel they are walking in an Iron Age village,” says event producer Peik Erhola.

The festival is free and family-friendly, and visitors can also explore the Ancient Village, built by Birckalaiset, a local Iron Age society, using authentic Iron Age techniques.

A year-long festival celebrating Early Music Just a short journey from Tampere, Sastamala Gregoriana will be celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026. The festival brings medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque works to life in the stunning St. Mary stone church.

The festival has grown into a year-round celebration, and features concerts and events that transport audiences across centuries. This year’s theme, Tears and joy – Affects in music, explores how music has expressed human emotion throughout history.

Highlights of the anniversary year include a concert by French Ensemble Irini on 21 March, which is Early Music Day, honouring the long history of music before the 18th century. There will also be a series of autumn and Christmas performances. “While the centuries have passed, the power of music to move us remains the same,” concludes Johannes Rantanen, the festival director.

Sastamala Gregoriana. Photo: Iisakki Toimela

Tampere Biennale www.tamperebiennale.fi Facebook: Tampere Biennale Instagram: @tamperebiennale Tampere Jazz Happening www.tamperejazz.fi Facebook: Tampere Jazz Happening Instagram: @tamperejazz Tampere Dance Current www.tanssivirtaa.net Facebook: Tanssivirtaa Tampereella -nykytanssifestivaali Instagram: @tanssivirtaatampereella

Piano performance. Photo: Ville Hautakangas

Mänttä Art Festival www.mantankuvataideviikot.fi Facebook: Mäntän kuvataideviikot / Mänttä Art Festival Instagram: @kuvataideviikot Mänttä Music Festival www.mantanmusiikkijuhlat.fi Facebook: Mäntän Musiikkijuhlat Mänttä Music Festival Instagram: @manttamusicfestival Iron Age Birckala www.birckala.fi Facebook: Rautakauden Birckala Instagram: @birckala

Tampere Theatre Festival www.teatterikesa.fi Facebook: Tampereen Teatterikesä Tampere Theatre Festival Instagram: @tamperetheatrefestival

Sastamala Gregoriana www.sastamalagregoriana.fi Facebook: Sastamala Gregoriana Instagram: @sastamalagregoriana

Teatteri Mukamas www.teatterimukamas.com Facebook: Teatteri Mukamas Instagram: @teatterimukamas

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Ukko-Luosto is a one-of-a-kind natural auditorium in the Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Photo: Heikki Pälviä

Classical music in the middle of Lapland’s nature Sounds of Luosto will once again gather classical music lovers to Luosto, Pyhätunturi and Sodankylä for an unforgettable experience. The chamber music festival is set for 6-9 August this year, and an outstanding programme of performances around the theme ‘music of travel’ is soon to be announced.

By Malin Norman

The first edition of Sounds of Luosto took place in the summer of 2021 and since then, this is an opportunity for classical music lovers to enjoy wonderful chamber music performances set in Lappish nature. Every year, the festival programme has a storytelling nature and is centred around a certain theme, and every act fits within that framework.

“Explicitly, many famous composers throughout the centuries have travelled for work, while metaphorically, their music often reflects their own personal journeys,” says Aku Sorensen, conductor and artistic director. “With this year’s theme – ‘music of travel’ – we examine this interplay and explore the effects that music can have on our own journeys through life.”

The programme promises ten dramatically different concerts, with different perspectives on what a journey can be.

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variety of composers, both well-known and less so, such as Kalevi Aho, Amy Beach, Jean Cras, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Felix Mendelssohn.

Outdoor stage, fell gorge, and old church The festival venues are destinations in their own right. For instance, the UkkoLuosto outdoor stage is a one-of-a-kind natural auditorium in the Pyhä-Luosto National Park. New this year is Aittakuru, a concert venue built at the bottom of a breathtaking fell gorge, with the audience seats built into the northern slope. And Sodankylä Old Church is one of Finland’s oldest wooden churches, built 330 years ago and preserved as a historical destination.

In addition to the concerts, there will be side events, including free morning presentations explaining the background to the concerts, the composers and their styles. And before the festival even starts, musicians will meet the public in a number

Top right: The concert venue Aittakuru sits at the bottom of a breathtaking fell gorge, with the audience seats built into the northern slope.

Photo: Taika Sorensen. Below right: Sodankylä Old Church is one of Finland’s oldest wooden churches, built 330 years ago and preserved as a historical destination. Photo: Johanna Luusua

of pop-up performances, bringing music to the heart of people’s everyday lives.

“The festival is always a wonderful event, and it’s fantastic to see how the audience connects with the music,” reflects the conductor. “It’s so exciting how people from all over Finland and further afield find their way to us every year.” luostosoi.fi/en Facebook: Luosto soi / Sounds of Luosto Instagram: @luostosoi Aku Sorensen, artistic director of the festival.

Photo: Mario Ramirez

Sounds of Luosto takes place 6-9 August 2026. The programme will be announced and tickets will be available in February.

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A festival that will blow you away The Lahti Organ Festival returns for its 54th edition from 3 to 9 August 2026, inviting audiences into a world where sound is felt as much as it is heard.

Every August, the city of Lahti in Finland transforms into a meeting place for some of the world’s finest organists. For one week, organ music fills venues across the city, and the result is a celebration that nourishes both body and soul. The festival has long been one of Finland’s most distinctive cultural events, drawing audiences from near and far.

For international visitors, it is also remarkably easy to reach. Lahti is located just an hour from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport and the capital region by train or car. Its compact size makes it effortless to explore between concerts, wander along the lakefront or enjoy the city’s lively summer cafés.

The programme for 2026 will be published in spring, but one thing is already certain: the festival will once again bring an impressive line-up of high-quality concerts to the city. “An organ concert is no longer just about sitting quietly in a church pew. It can be

www.cosytimesceramics.dk Instagram: @cosytimesceramics.kerteminde

something innovative and unexpected,” says Pauli Pietiläinen. Whether you are a lifelong devotee of organ music or completely new to the genre, the festival welcomes everyone with open arms.

Past editions have never shied away from the surprising. Performances have paired organ music with circus arts, ballet, jazz improvisation and even a Harley-Davidson motorcycle with an exhaust system rede-

Organs. Photo: Sibeliustalo

By Ndéla Faye

signed into an organ pipe so it could perform as a soloist.

According to Pietiläinen, this playful spirit reveals how truly versatile the instrument is.

The organ can be meditative and delicate, or overwhelmingly powerful. “We want to showcase the thrilling breadth of the instrument and challenge assumptions about what organ music can be,” he concludes. www.lahtiorgan.fi Facebook: Lahti Organ Festival Instagram: @lahtiorganfestival

Sibeliustalo 2025. Photo: Antti Sepponen

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Festival Guide Finland

At the festival, dance often moves beyond traditional stages — as it did at the Puijo Tower in 2023 with Il Posto. Photo: Wille Markkanen

A gathering of world-class talent in the heart of Finland Every June, Kuopio transforms into one of the most vibrant dance capitals in the Nordics. For a week, the lakeside city becomes a stage for world-class contemporary dance.

By Ndéla Faye

Kuopio Dance Festival, founded in 1969, is the Nordic region’s longest-running and one of its most influential contemporary dance festivals. It draws professionals, art lovers and enthusiasts from around the world, and its setting – in the heart of Finnish Lakeland – combined with midsummer’s nightless nights, gives the event a uniquely atmospheric backdrop.

Tickets are already on sale for next summer’s festival, held from 8 to 14 June, and the upcoming festival will feature performances by one of Europe’s leading contemporary dance companies, GöteborgsOperans Danskompani.

For Kuopio Dance Festival’s artistic director Kenneth Kvarnström, bringing the company to Finland is a major achievement. Led by Icelandic artistic director Katrín Hall, GöteborgsOperans Danskompani is known for its bold and 48

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forward-thinking approach, and performances routinely sell out across the world. The company’s dancers come from more than 20 countries and perform almost exclusively new works created with acclaimed choreographers, composers and creative teams.

“It’s incredibly special to have a company of this calibre in Kuopio. Their dancers come from all over the world, and the works have been created by some of today’s most sought-after choreographers.

This is a rare treat for audiences in Finland,” Kvarnström says.

In Kuopio, they will present works by Sharon Eyal, Hofesh Shechter, Botis Seva and Marcos Morau. Two of these are new creations by Seva and Morau, giving Kuopio’s audiences an early opportunity to experience them soon after the world premieres.

Top: Hofesh Shechter - Wild Poetry, performed by GöteborgsOperans Danskompani will be featured at the festival in 2026. Photo: Lennart Sjöberg Below: Sharon Eyal’s ima, performed by GöteborgsOperans Danskompani, is part of the festival’s 2026 programme. Photo: Tino Stengel

Although GöteborgsOperans Danskompani is the headline act, the festival programme extends beyond a single company. A perennial favourite, the Kuopio Dance Festival Gala, returns with a curated collection of short works by leading Finnish and international artists.

Kvarnström hopes that newcomers will feel inspired to explore the festival. “The festival offers a great glimpse into the best of contemporary dance. The Gala, for example, is an accessible way to see the breadth and versatility of the genre. It’s a celebration where audiences can experience different styles and perspectives in one evening,” he says.

The festival also includes free workshops and seminars for all ages, as well as outdoor events and pop-up performances that animate the city. For many visitors, Kuopio itself becomes part of the experience, offering a uniquely intimate way to encounter contemporary dance. www.kuopiodancefestival.fi Facebook: Kuopio Dance Festival Finland Instagram: @kuopiodancefestival

Hämeentie 13 B, Helsinki, Finland | Tel.: +358 44 0660 530 Facebook: ravintolaonda | Instagram: @ravintolaonda www.ravintolaonda.fi

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Modern Karelian Luxury in Eastern Finland

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Break Sokos Hotel

Koli Relax Spa. Photo: Break Sokos Hotel Koli

Modern Karelian luxury In Finland’s North Karelia, Break Sokos Hotels and spas sit right on the edge of nature.

Outdoor pools, a wide range of activities, and abundant opportunities for pampering and relaxation create a simple yet striking connection to the outdoors. With Koli National Park’s ancient forests and lakeside landscapes, the region blends comfort with untouched nature.

By Ndéla Faye

North Karelia is a place where Eastern and Nordic cultures meet. Its food, dialect, music, art and mythology have been shaped over centuries, and the region’s strong storytelling and singing traditions form part of the national epic, Kalevala, with many of its stories collected from this province.

gence. Set within the picturesque Koli National Park, the hotel is located at the top of Koli, offering breathtaking views across Lake Pielinen and providing an escape into nature.

On the first floor, guests will find Koli Relax Spa, a pampering landscape spa where saunas, hot tubs and an outdoor

Sokos Hotels has three of its gems here – Break Sokos Hotel Koli, Break Sokos Hotel Koli Kylä, and Break Sokos Hotel Bomba. Each offers its own way to experience North Karelia’s distinctive blend of nature, culture and modern comfort.

Stepping into some of Finland’s most iconic landscapes Break Sokos Hotel Koli is the ideal destination for those seeking ultimate indul50

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Biking in Bomba in the autumn.

Photo: Break Sokos Hotel Bomba

pool offer visitors the chance to unwind beneath the starry skies.

Meanwhile, Break Sokos Hotel Koli Kylä offers a cosy and atmospheric base for active travellers and adventurous visitors eager to explore the area’s numerous outdoor activities. Koli National Park is one of Finland’s most iconic landscapes, and it is easy to see why. From the hotel, guests can step directly onto the challenging slopes of Ukko-Koli hill or lace up their hiking boots and head straight onto Koli’s extensive network of scenic trails that begin right outside the hotel.

Standing at the peak of Ukko-Koli reveals picture-perfect vistas and in winter, the landscape transforms into a magical wonderland. The slopes of Koli Ski Resort add a thrilling and invigorating element to a winter holiday, offering hikers and outdoor enthusiasts year-round access to some of Finland’s most striking natural scenery.

“Koli is a unique destination that offers visitors something special during every

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New scenery rooms at Bomba.

Photo: Break Sokos Hotel Bomba

season of the year. The landscapes, pure nature and peace of the national park attract tourists of all ages all year round,” says Kati Vihma, hotel manager of Break Sokos Hotel Koli and Break Sokos Hotel Koli Kylä.

The hotels focus on sustainable tourism and providing meaningful experiences in nature. “A holiday in Koli is, in many ways, a holistic well-being experience.

Just being in the middle of the untouched nature of North Karelia does wonders to the mind and body,” Vihma adds.

A short distance away, Break Sokos Hotel Koli Kylä provides a more down-to-earth retreat, ideal for hikers, families, and groups on active holidays. It offers easy access to trails and ski routes, as well as a warm, cosy landing place after outdoor adventures. Guests often unwind in the sauna before settling into the inviting atmosphere of Restaurant Tervaskanto. It is the perfect base for travellers who want to spend most of their trip immersed in nature.

Lakeside calm with a Karelian soul

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Modern Karelian Luxury in Eastern Finland

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Break Sokos Hotel

Inside Bomba Spa Photo: Break Sokos Hotel Bomba

ticism with its saunas, spa experience showers, and panoramic views overlooking Lake Pielinen.

In winter, guests can brave an invigorating ice swim or soak in a hot tub under starry skies often illuminated by northern lights. “Bomba offers visitors a dive into Karelian culture, the region’s natural beauty as well as modern comfort and a sense of luxury that is equally enchanting year-round,” says hotel manager Sanna Tenhunen.

“Bomba’s location is special – and the upcoming 2026 film Son of Revenge: The story of Kalevala directed by Antti J. Jokinen, was filmed in the area. The film location was chosen because of Bomba’s authentic Karelian atmosphere and the untouched nature surrounding it,” Tenhunen explains. In addition, props from the production will be used to create a Kalevala-themed village, offering immersive cultural experiences for guests.

The hotel’s Bomba restaurant serves traditional Karelian dishes alongside modern interpretations of classic fla-

vours. It has been awarded the internationally acclaimed Chaîne des Rôtisseurs plaque, which is a testament to the restaurant’s high-quality cuisine and warm hospitality.

Eastern Finland offers visitors the chance to rediscover peace and savour the simple, magical beauty of nature and delve into the rich and unique culture of North Karelia. From the ancient forests of Koli to the shoreline of Lake Pielinen, Break Sokos Hotel Koli and Kylä, and Break Sokos Hotel Bomba showcase the region’s unique blend of culture, comfort and untouched nature.

Break Sokos Hotel Koli and Break Sokos Hotel Koli Kylä: www.sokoshotels.fi/en/hotels/lieksa Facebook: Break Sokos Hotel Koli and Kylä Instagram: @breaksokoshotelkoli Break Sokos Hotel Bomba: www.sokoshotels.fi/en/hotels/nurmes/ break-sokos-hotel-bomba Facebook: Break Sokos Hotel Bomba Instagram: @breaksokoshotelbomba

Break Sokos Hotel Bomba is renowned for its expansive spa and stunning lakeside location on the very edge of Lake Pielinen. Awarded Accommodation Establishment of the Year in 2024 at the Finnish Travel Gala, the hotel continues to live up to its reputation as one of Finland’s finest spa destinations.

The hotel’s luxurious Spa Bomba is an oasis of calm and relaxation immersed in nature. The spa exudes Karelian mys-

There are many different nature trails in Koli.

Photo: Break Sokos Hotel Koli and Kylä

The landscapes in Koli are impressive.

Photo: Break Sokos Hotel Koli and Kylä

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A selection of art on display at the gallery.

The gallery at Christmas time.

Art, culture and design in cosy Røros Since 2014, Kunst & Kaos in the charming UNESCO-listed town of Røros has offered world-class art with a small-town heart. Begun as a summer project over 11 years ago, the cosy gallery now represents art from over fifty artisans and craftspeople from across the country.

open year-round. It also has a website and an active online shop, and ships pieces to all of Norway and globally.

By Molly McPharlin

“We’re a small gallery in a small place in central Norway, but the selection of artists and the quality of our art is of a high quality,” says Sigrid M. Jansen, who owns Kunst & Kaos with her friend and partner, Ellen Kristine Klemmetvold. “We may not be the world’s largest gallery, but our calibre, enthusiasm and activity level are great. We want to be a vibrant meeting place for art, culture, and good experiences.”

As active members of the Røros community, both Jansen and Klemmetvold have been involved in the region’s art and design sector for many years. An expert in art history and curation, Klemmetvold also installs new exhibitions at KUK, a gallery and exhibition space in Trondheim and is part of The Cultural School Bag, a painting and drawing workshop for children at Kunst &Kaos. Jansen is a trained graphic designer who first established the design agency Form til fjells in Røros before opening Kunst & Kaos.

Located in the historic neighbourhood of Finborudgården in the centre of Røros, Kunst & Kaos sells artwork, including graphics, paintings, drawings, sculptures, textiles, jewellery, and housewares in a comfortable gallery space

Their combined experience has allowed them to create a gallery that is professional and forward-thinking, but welcoming to everyone. Ellen Klemmetvold says: “At Knust & Kaos, you will find a rich and varied selection of art in a broad

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Photos: Kunst & Kaos

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Sigrid Jansen outside Kunst & Kaos in Røros.

Experts in art, curation, and design

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Visit Norway - Røros and Østerdalen

Sigrid Jansen and Ellen Kristine Klemmetvold, the owners of Kunst & Kaos. Photo: Linda Klemmetvoll Olsen

Local art at Kunt & Kaos in Røros.

price range. We collaborate with many renowned and professional artists, and all artworks on display have been carefully selected by us in consultation with the Art Professionals Council. In December 2025, we announced an open call for Norwegian artists. The selected submittals will form the base for our 2026 exhibitions. We’ve held around 45 solo and group exhibitions of Norwegian and South Sámi artists, and we want to increase this number.”

Representing Norwegian and Sámi art Kunst &Kaos is committed to presenting a wide range of art to ensure that customers can choose from high-quality pieces. The gallery is especially interested in highlighting the artistic traditions of the southern Sámi region, in which Røros is located. “Røros has long Sámi traditions, and Sámi art and culture are an important part of who we are. We actively encourage the inclusion and representation of Sámi art in our collections,” says Jansen. “We’re also proud to represent Norwegian artists from across the country. The fact that we show contemporary artists means that we offer an accurate picture of art in Norway today. They’re inspired by Norwegian culture, and we’re proud to be a space for all Norwegian art.”

Kunst &Kaos holds a variety of events throughout the year, and the public is warmly welcome.

rest of the country. They also have an increasingly international audience and warmly welcome international clients.

Besides exhibitions, the gallery offers a range of events, from lectures, workshops and tours to performances and concerts. “Although most of our visitors don’t come from Røros, it’s important for us to also act as a centre for the community,” says Jansen.

Visitors can join a walk in the footsteps of the neo-romanticist Norwegian painter Harald Sohlberg or book the gallery for private receptions. “We want to be a meeting place for locals and visitors alike. For many, Kunst & Kaos has already become a destination in itself, a place that is worth the trip to Røros.”

Røros in itself is an ideal destination to experience Norwegian culture and charm, whatever the season. There is a vast selection of captivating shops, interesting craft stores, cafés, and galleries.

Known for its wooden houses, Christmas market and local food, the town has always been a centre for culture, arts, and crafts. “If you put a roof over Røros, you would get the world’s most beautiful shopping centre,” muses Jansen. “Maybe it’s the picturesque surroundings that inspire artistic work? It’s a perfect place for a gallery like Kunst & Kaos. We welcome everyone to visit us.” www.kunstogkaos.no Facebook: Kunst & Kaos Instagram: @kunst_og_kaos

More than an exhibition space As a well-known gallery committed to serving as a platform for contemporary regional art, Knust & Kaos attracts visitors from across the region and the

A talk given at Kunst & Kaos by Ellen Kristine Klemmetvold. Photo: Tom Gustavsen

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Travel into the past with Elden Røros Every summer, as dusk settles over Røros, the dark ridges of the slag heaps come alive.

These monumental mounds – consisting of cast-off stone from centuries of copper extraction – become a stage of light, shadow and music. Here, in one of Norway’s most atmospheric landscapes, Elden unfolds: a sweeping historical play, a community endeavour and one of the country’s most distinctive outdoor theatre traditions.

By Celina Tran

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Photos: Atle Auran

Norway’s spel culture has produced many large-scale productions rooted in local history, but Elden stands in a league of its own. “Since the premiere in 1994, Elden has grown into the biggest historical theatre of its kind in the country, drawing more than 12,000 visitors each summer and engaging around 400 volunteers,” says manager Jo Inge Nes. The story is set in the winter of 1718— 1719, during the last years of the Great Northern War. Swedish King Karl XII sent General Carl Gustaf Armfeldt and 10,000 soldiers toward Trondheim in an attempt to conquer Norway. The campaign was gruelling from the outset, marked by hun54

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ger, disease and harsh weather. When the king was killed during the siege of Halden, Armfeldt’s troops were ordered home.

Their return journey across the mountains east of Røros became a disaster: a violent storm struck the plateau, and nearly 3,000

soldiers froze to death. This tragedy, the Carolean Death March, remains one of the darkest episodes in Scandinavian military history, and serves as the backdrop of Elden. “But the production is not a simple war drama. It follows both soldiers and civilians, weaving a human narrative of love, duty and loss.”

The young Kalle reluctantly marches into service, leaving behind his beloved Ellen; seasoned fighters like Håkan Modig and Pär Åke face the brutal realities of winter warfare; and in Røros, townspeople such as Maren, Kristine, Bergverksdirektør Bergmann and Captain Mentzonius struggle to protect their community as rumours of Swedish troops draw nearer.

“We’re telling the story of one of the worst things that has happened in Swedish war history, but also about Røros, its people and the community here. While the history itself is one of terrible war

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Visit Norway - Røros and Østerdalen

Røros: Norway’s copper town and cultural heart Perched 600 metres above sea level in Trøndelag, Røros is a town in which history and nature meet in striking harmony.

Founded in the 17th century as a copper mining settlement, it grew into a vibrant community, and today, its wooden buildings, narrow streets, and mining heritage have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

and conflict, we also want to tell a story of peace.” This year’s 10 performances will take place mid-summer, spanning 22 July to 1 August.

A theatre shaped by landscape and community Elden is as much about the town and its people as it is about history. Performed on the slag heaps of Røros, the production draws on the town’s mining heritage and UNESCO World Heritage status, making the location itself an essential part of the story. Volunteers help with everything from costumes to logistics, ensuring the production is a truly shared experience. The involvement of children and young people also makes it one of the largest youth theatre initiatives in the Nordic region.

“Even if you don’t understand every word, you understand the emotion.”

Visitors can deepen the experience at Restaurant Slagg, Elden’s on-site dining venue housed in a lavvo. Here, a fivecourse dinner showcases the region’s local producers – reindeer from Stensaasen, trout from Femundfisk, dairy from Rørosmeieriet, and baked goods from Kalsa and Galåvolden. Sometimes members of the cast appear to share background stories from the war or from Røros’ mining past. With fires burning and the mountain air cooling around you, it feels like slipping into the world the performance evokes.

Beyond Elden, Røros itself offers a wealth of cultural and natural experiences. The Røros Museum network, including Olavsgruva, Smelthytta, and Sleggveien, immerses visitors in the history of mining and local life. Bergstaden’s streets are lined with shops and artisans, offering crafts, textiles, and speciality foods. For those drawn to the outdoors, Femundsmarka National Park and surrounding trails offer ample hiking, cycling, and canoeing opportunities, making the region an ideal mix of history, culture, and wilderness.

Whether you are exploring Røros through the lens of Elden and its history, or if you would like a more laid-back, no-plans type of stay, there is plenty to do for everyone. www.elden-roros.no Facebook: Elden Instagram: @eldenroros

“Almost ten per cent of the entirety of Røros participates, meaning that Elden isn’t just performed here, but that it also belongs to and is a part of the community,” says Nes. “The production relies on an extraordinary mixture of professional artists and local volunteers. It’s a cultural institution as much as a performance, rooted in the belief that storytelling strengthens the place it comes from.”

While the play is performed primarily in Norwegian, plenty of preparations have been made to make it accessible to international visitors, including information about the history ahead of the play. “It works almost like opera,” Nes explains.

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Røroshotellene – authentic experiences in the heart of Røros The hotel group Røroshotellene offers unique and memorable experiences at three distinct hotels in the UNESCO-listed mining town of Røros. This fascinating World Heritage Site boasts history, culture, delicious traditional food and fantastic stays at one-of-a-kind hotels.

Sustainability, environmental awareness and social responsibility are central to every aspect of Røroshotellene’s operations. Their locations are all Eco-Lighthouse certified, reflecting the group’s deep commitment to responsible business practices.

By Maria Sødal Vole

The charming small town of Røros is one of eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Norway. Steeped in history and culture, the town’s fascinating mining traditions and vibrant local community set it apart as one of Norway’s most extraordinary destinations.

“When you come here, you’re not just visiting a town – you journey into a history, a culture and a cohesive destination that’s still evolving. Preserving what makes this place special and continuing to develop Røros as a well-rounded destination that leaves a lasting impression on visitors is important to us,” says hotel manager Lena Lindgren. “I’m very 56

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proud of what we offer here – we always say that everything we do, we do with love and respect for Røros.”

“Taking care of the nature around us and the local community couldn’t be more important to us,” Lindgren says. “We want to be proud of the way we run our business, and we strive to make it as easy as possible for our guests to make sustainable choices here.”

Hotel stays with character

Photo: Ida Amalie Døhl/Røroshotellene

Dating back to the 17th century, Erzscheidergården Hotell offers a distinctive hotel experience in charming surroundings,

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Featuring antique furnishings and an intimate atmosphere, the boutique hotel is popular among travellers to Røros. “It’s a meeting of past and present – an old setting, but with modern comfort,” says Lindgren. “A stay at Erzscheidergården is like a journey back in time. When guests stay with us once, they always return.”

Erzscheidergården boasts a fantastic location in the heart of Røros, offering beautiful views of its closest neighbour, the historic church Røroskirka. “Opening the curtains in the morning to the view of the church outside is really special – it’s like waking up in a fairy tale,” Lindgren says.

The hotel is known for its authentic hospitality and the personal touches that make a stay feel homey – staff who greet guests with a warm smile, the smell of fresh-baked goods in the morning, and a warm and inviting fireplace lounge with homemade cake.

Vertshuset Røros and city view.

Photo: Sune Eriksen/Røroshotellene

with 24 individually designed rooms, each with its own distinctive atmosphere. The hotel is a proud member of De Historiske, the exclusive collection of historic hotels and restaurants in Norway.

Erzscheidergården lunch.

Photo: Ida Amalie Døhl/Røroshotellene

“It’s not just the unique history, but the people who make experiences here extra special,” says Lindgren. “Many travellers value authenticity; they want to experience real places and people.

Here, there’s a true identity – our hotels have soul, they’re grounded in a rich history and community.”

The entire hotel can be booked for business events, private celebrations and

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Visit Norway - Røros and Østerdalen

Dogsledding. Photo: Marius Rua/ Buckethaus/Røroshotellene

other occasions, offering an exclusive experience tailored to the group’s needs and wishes, with the entire staff on hand to ensure a seamless stay.

Historic charm and modern comfort A stone’s throw away, you will find Vertshuset Røros – another quaint hotel steeped in history and proud traditions.

Dating back to the 17th century, the inn has a warm, intimate atmosphere. Offering comfortable rooms and apartments, the hotel also features a welcoming fine-dining restaurant with a dedicated bar.

For those looking for a modern, full-service hotel experience, Røros Hotell is the largest local hotel. The hotel offers a wide selection of rooms along with a large spa and wellness area featuring several pools and a sauna, an indoor and outdoor play area for kids, and much more. Visitors can also enjoy the upscale Bergrosa restau-

Erzscheidergården room.

Photo: Sune Eriksen/Røroshotellene

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Visit Norway - Røros and Østerdalen

Erzscheidergården view from room.

Photo: Sune Eriksen/Røroshotellene

rant, which focuses on regional produce and seasonal flavours.

“Everyone will be able to find their perfect stay here,” Lindgren says. “Our goal is to give each guest an authentic experience in Røros, no matter what hotel they choose – it should be real, generous, and grounded in a genuine love for our town.”

A taste of Røros

Kaffestuggu food.

Photo: Ida Amalie Døhl/Røroshotellene

Exploring Røros’ mining heritage through museum visits, mine tours and other experiences is also highly recommended for anyone visiting this historic town, and the team at Røroshotellene is happy to create tailored experiences for guests.

Finally, Røros offers plenty of exciting outdoor activities and experiences in the area’s stunning nature year-round.

In winter, ski tracks start directly from

Røros Hotell, and activities such as dogsledding, reindeer sightseeing and horse-drawn carriage rides are waiting to be explored. Outside of the winter season, Røros is a veritable paradise for hiking, mountain biking, golfing, canoeing and much more. www.røroshotellene.no Facebook: Røroshotellene Instagram: @roroshotellene

Røros boasts a rich food culture, championing regional specialities. The cosy café Kaffestuggu is Røros’ oldest eatery and an important meeting point for the community. Here, you can enjoy traditional fare, all homemade with ingredients from the area.

“In our hotel restaurants and at Kaffestuggu, you can get a real taste and feel of Røros,” says Lindgren. “We’re very proud to be using the best of seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and artisans.”

According to Lindgren, visitors are always keen to try local delicacies. Among the most popular dishes are reindeer meat and surpølse, a traditional sour sausage.

Travellers can also explore the area’s food and drink culture through food safaris, beer tastings and other activities.

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Fireplace lounge. Photo: Sune Eriksen/Røroshotellene

52 Places to Go in 2025

The best art and architecture of 2024

experience the nordic

Worlds Greates Places

Kunstsilo is one of Northern Europe’s most innovative art museums located on Norway’s stunning southern coast. Housed in a reimagined 1930s grain silo it is home to the world’s largest collection of Nordic modernist art — the renowned Tangen Collection — and a dynamic programme of rotating international exhibitions.

Kristiansand, Norway

kunstsilo.no

A Must-Visit For European Art Lovers

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Visit Norway - Ålesund and Geiranger

Otters and seals have a comfortable home at Atlanterhavsparken.

Atlanterhavsparken is the ideal place to explore Norway’s marine life with children.

Exploring marine life on the Norwegian coastline With the motto “We are the voice of the sea,” Atlanterhavsparken is one of northern Europe’s largest and most dynamic saltwater aquariums. Set on Norway’s spectacular west coast, just three kilometres from the city of Ålesund, the marine centre offers visitors of all ages an interactive and engaging gateway to undersea life along the Norwegian coastline and across the North Atlantic.

By Molly McPharlin

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Photos: Atlanterhavsparken

Open since 1998, Atlanterhavsparken decided in 2015 to focus entirely on the marine world around Norway. This led to the creation of the first marine science centre in 2021. “Our location makes it possible to use unfiltered seawater directly from the ocean. We take in 21,000 litres a minute.

This provides the conditions for natural living ecosystems in the aquariums,” says Cathrin Åkre, chief administrator at Atlanterhavsparken.

Exhibitions such as Port Nation, Deep Fjords and Amongst Islets and Reefs explore coastal life in Norway’s waters and the deep-sea. Outside, Atlanterhavsparken has Seal Bay, Europe’s largest seal enclosure, Oterøya with its community of rescued otters, and a colony of Humboldt penguins who came to Norway from Chile and Peru as part of EEP, a European breeding programme for endangered species.

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Some of the highlights during a visit at Atlanterhavsparken include the diving show in the Atlantic tank, where a diver hand-feeds fish. The feeding shows with seals, otters and penguins are also popular. Moreover, many of the centre’s youngest guests enjoy gently touching and exploring sea animals in the petting pool and fishing for crabs. “We are developing several new exhibitions for the future,” says Åkre. “An important focus

will be to deepen the understanding of the delicate connection between climate, sustainability and marine ecosystems.”

Atlanterhavsparken is family-friendly and accessible, with easy access for both strollers and wheelchairs. For companies, the park can accommodate special business conferences with space for up to seventy people.

Though most of the centre’s visitors are Norwegian, the number of international visitors is growing each year. The goal is to increase these numbers to disseminate knowledge about life in Norwegian waters as widely as possible. “The creation of Norway’s first marine science centre is an expression of the country’s commitment to oceanography,” says Åkre and concludes; “We hope to share our love of coastal and deep-sea life with more people from around the world.” www.atlanterhavsparken.no Facebook: Atlanterhavsparken Ålesund Instagram: @atlanterhavsparkenalesund Tripadvisor: Atlanterhavsparken TikTok: #atlanterhavsparken YouTube: Atlanterhavsparken

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Visit Norway - Tønsberg

The real Oseberghip was discovered right outside of Tønsberg, which means that the Saga Oseberg provides a chance to sail the same waters that the Vikings did.

All aboard Saga Oseberg Welcome to Tønsberg, Norway’s oldest town and its very own Viking capital. Here, history is not something you simply observe, it is something you step into, touch, smell and help bring to life. Join Saga Oseberg, a replica of the Oseberg Viking ship, on a journey into the past.

By Celina Tran

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Photos: Saga Oseberg

Normally, a trip to a museum involves a look-but-don’t-touch approach, but a trip aboard Saga Oseberg is a full sensory immersion. Here, you do not join as a passenger, but rather as a part of a fully-fledged Viking crew. Feel the weight of the oars and the creak of the timber beneath you and let the earthy scent of the wool sail, fresh-cut wood and tar transport you straight into the 9th century.

“As part of the Oseberg Viking Heritage Foundation, Saga Oseberg is a living museum,” says project leader Ole Harald Flåten, who oversees the foundation’s vast volunteer-driven efforts.

The Oseberg Viking heritage extends far beyond the ship itself. Visitors can both witness and try authentic Viking crafts, watch skilled artisans at work, or even take part in building a new ship, namely the replica of the famous Gokstad vessel currently under construction. “We

also offer guided experiences across Vestfold’s rich archaeological landscape, bringing context to the region’s burial mounds, trading hubs and power centres,” Flåten explains.

Moored by the docks, a visit aboard the ship is free and access is easy. As part of a wider attempt to broaden the reach and accessibility of the Viking heritage, Oseberg Viking Heritage Foundation hosts a free Viking festival each August filled with hands-on activities: boatbuilding, textile demonstrations, smithing, lec-

tures, Viking music and even glima, the traditional form of Viking wrestling.

“International archaeologists from places like Isle of Man and Scotland also join the programme with lectures, adding depth and global context to the Viking story, and helping us build ties and relations to other places where the Vikings left their mark.”

Saga Oseberg is part of Vikingveien (The Viking Route), a broader experience that is being developed through a network linking sites, stories and landscapes from the fjord to the mountains.

More than a route, Vikingveien is a living collaboration that ties together heritage environments, museums, communities and natural areas to present the Viking Age as a connected whole.

But here in Tønsberg, it all comes together most vividly. Whether you join a voyage, learn a craft or explore the historic shoreline, Saga Oseberg invites you into a world where the Viking Age is not past, but present, tangible and wonderfully alive.

Visiting London.

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Leading the way in carbon capture while protecting Norway’s biodiversity on land and in the sea Since launching Norway’s first commercial climate forest in 2019, Trefadder has delivered premium carbon credits to customers around the world. Based in Norway, the company manages carbon capture through the planting and protection of forests, with all projects fully documented, verified and traceable. Trefadder’s latest focus is the restoration of Norway’s kelp forests – the largest of their kind in Europe. These special biodiverse environments store vast amounts of carbon and serve as nurseries for young fish and other marine organisms.

By Molly McPharlin

Maintaining old-growth forests is ideal for carbon capture projects.

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tree planting, forest conservation and forest protection. Trefadder collaborates with local farmers to build Norwegian carbon forests using only specific Norwegian tree species. “We only plant the right tree in the right place,” says Kristiansen.

These varieties include spruce, pine, oak, beech, maple, and ash. The forests create jobs and support local communities.

“We’re also leading Norway’s largest oak forest restoration.” Trefadder manages forest exclusively in Norway, whose geography and natural barriers, such as fjords and mountains, offer ideal conditions for climate forests and long-term carbon capture.

Planting new trees in a forest managed by Trefadder.

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

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Helping nature regenerate the kelp forest draw from gas and coal with Trefadder carbon credits generated through largescale tree planting, protection of oldgrowth forests and biodiversity projects – all happening inside Norway.”

Alongside carbon credits (sometimes known as climate credits) for companies that want to compensate for their emissions, Trefadder’s projects include new

Trefadder’s most recent project focuses on marine restoration and the regeneration of kelp forests. Since the 1970s, overfishing in Norway’s coastal regions has led to a decline in the populations of natural predators of sea urchins, such as cod and wolf fish, allowing the urchins to multiply into billions, eating and destroying the kelp of an area the size of half a million football fields.

Since its launch, Trefadder has served over two hundred clients worldwide across sectors like technology and energy, and is trusted by companies as varied as Microsoft, ABB, Vår Energi, and BDO. “Companies choose Trefadder for our high-quality forest projects that offer full transparency, traceability, and documented CO₂ capture,” says Anders Kristiansen, CEO of the company, whose own background is in both IT and environmental science. Both businesses and private individuals can join Trefadder.

“Our private membership contributes to tree planting, old-growth protection, and habitat restoration,” he says.

Managing the carbon footprint of AI AI companies and data centres are now also turning to Trefadder for its carbon credits. “In Norway alone, large data centres are being planned that will rely on both renewable energy and fossil fuels, as wind, solar and hydropower alone cannot meet their enormous energy demands,” says Kristiansen. “Many AI companies are now seeking to offset the energy they

Trefadder is also actively planting new trees and forests for carbon to help offset carbon footprints.

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Artificial reef modules help to accelerate marine recovery.

Kelp forests are the natural habitat for many types of fish and serve as nurseries for young fish, shelter over 100,000 organisms per square metre, and store huge amounts of CO₂. “Kelp forests are the ocean’s own rainforests,” says Kristiansen. “Trefadder’s mission is to rejuvenate and rebalance marine life so that nature can restore the biodiversity of these areas. I’m a specialist in aquaculture with a focus on shellfish, so this project has been a long-term goal for Trefadder. Kelp forests are similar to forests on land – when the forest thrives, the animals thrive, using it to find food, shelter, and places to reproduce. This is the same for marine life.”

A healthy marine environment Norway has one of the world’s longest coastlines, and a healthy marine environment and sustainable fishing industry are important for both the country’s economy and well-being. Trefadder is involved in projects such as removing sea urchins with a special, Norwegian-designed urchin remover, which is gentle and precise, clearing them from areas of the seabed 64

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ready to recover. Sea urchins are then used as food or fertiliser, and nothing is wasted. This allows kelp spores to reclaim the ocean floor and, with light and space, grow up to two metres annually as nature again takes over. The company has also been involved in reintroducing young wolf fish to the region. They act as natural predators of sea urchins, helping keep biodiversity in balance.

Sea urchins look small and harmless but can be deadly to Norway’s kelp forests.

Moreover, Trefadder is installing reef modules, artificial reefs that mimic kelp forests by providing shelter for fish and accelerating marine recovery. “These structures support ecosystems by offering stable habitats and hiding places for young fish. They also encourage algae and microbial growth. Within weeks of installing them, life begins to re-establish. The reefs function as productive

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‘nursey zones’ that strengthen the survival rates of baby fish and the entire marine food web,” says Kristiansen. “Marine restoration is complex and requires multiple approaches, but improving habitat quality through artificial reefs is one of the most fundamental and effective measures available.”

Talks on nature-based climate solutions Trefadder provides educational talks and information to universities and companies, as well as TED talks on how nature-based solutions can address climate and environmental challenges. The company has received recognition from Norway’s Prime Minister and other governmental leaders, and its projects are grounded in state-supported research.

Kristiansen thinks that, when well-managed, tree planting and forest conservation both on land and underwater are highly successful in the fight against global warming. “Think of the climate crisis as an overflowing bathtub: we need to both turn off the tap (reduce emissions) and pull the drain plug (remove CO₂ from the atmosphere). Tree planting is one of our best tools for this—when done correctly, with the right trees in stable locations, it’s an effective way to lower atmospheric carbon.” Together with the kelp project, Trefadder is projected to capture and store millions of tons of CO₂.

Searching for areas of the seabed ready for restoration.

www.trefadder.no Facebook: trefadder LinkedIn: trefadder Preparing to remove sea urchins from damaged kelp forests.

Baby wolf fish are raised to help restore the biodiversity in the kelp forests.

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Scandinavian School Costa Blanca: A safe place for families to grow In the schoolyard of Playa Flamenca, a stone’s throw from the sea, children start their day chatting in Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish and Spanish – a cultural mix that reflects the spirit of Scandinavian School Costa Blanca on Spain’s sunny East coast. For many curious families, this is where life in Spain takes form, filled with courage, opportunity and the backing they need to take the leap.

By Emma Roedin

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Photos: Skandinaviska Skolan Costa Blanca

Moving abroad can feel overwhelming. A new language, a new culture, and the uncertainty of whether the children will actually settle. “Many families base their entire move on whether they get a place here,” says director of studies, Rita Kivimäki. “Our mission is to take the stress out of that decision, so that children can feel safe and parents feel confident.”

To make that transition easier, the school offers a four-week trial period. Families can give life in Spain a run, explore the school itself, and see how their children 66

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get on before committing to a full year.

For many, it is this trial that turns hesitation into clarity. If not now, when?

A Nordic home with a Spanish flair Scandinavian School Costa Blanca welcomes students from Sweden, Norway, and Finland, celebrating their national traditions alongside Spanish holidays. It is a fantastic environment for children to explore their double identity, staying rooted in the Nordics but comfortable in Spain.

The Swedish curriculum forms the backbone of the school’s teaching system, strengthened by Finnish structure and Norwegian student involvement. Small classes and a high teacher-student ratio mean that every child is seen and supported. And for students who may have struggled to thrive elsewhere, this often becomes a turning point.

Scandinavian School Costa Blanca is also an approved Swedish international school and offers a consistent education

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keep our family feeling than expand too quickly,” Kivimäki says. Still, the school does evolve every year, welcoming around a dozen new students each term to maintain small, personal classes. At parents’ request, the school now also offers Spanish lessons for adults, helping families integrate together.

through upper secondary level. Older students study through remote partnerships with Hermods and Sofia Distans, but unlike typical distance learning, they receive daily on-site support and structure from teachers in Costa Blanca. They are guided, mentored and kept on track, creating a balance of flexibility and stability.

Spanish is taught from the early years, and the school offers extra Spanish lessons and activities free of charge. Excursions, cultural projects and everyday interaction make the language come alive.

“The goal is simple,” explains Kivimäki.

“We want our children to feel at home in their new country while keeping their Nordic roots intact.”

joy in learning here. Safety is not just a feeling – it is built into the daily rhythm.

Great food is another selling point for this school. Indeed, a passionate Swedish chef is on hand daily to cook meals from scratch, often organic and always with local produce. Vegetables are cleverly blended into sauces, fruit tastes like sunshine, and the meals reflect the school’s belief that good food supports learning.

It is simple, honest cooking that children talk about at home – and parents genuinely appreciate.

A meaningful investment in your child’s future Scandinavian School Costa Blanca does not aim to grow large. “We’d rather

And to help ease the financial burden for families making the move to Spain, the annual cost of roughly 7,000 euros can be paid in instalments. But the real value goes beyond numbers: it is the chance for children to grow up between cultures, learn fluent Spanish and Nordic languages, and develop resilience, confidence and a global outlook. “Many families discover that life here balances out naturally with lower food prices, simpler routines and a lifestyle that tends to give more than it takes,” explains Kivimäki.

Apply and take the leap To secure a place for the coming school year, applications must be submitted by 1 May 2026. For many families, that date marks the turning point from dream to decision. Just imagine the start of a new, bright chapter – one where children grow, and the sun is always shining. www.skandinaviskaskolan.com Instagram: @skandinaviskaskolancostablanca

And the teachers? The best The school attracts brilliant educators from Scandinavia, often with hundreds of applicants for each role. “We put great emphasis on making sure that teachers can live well here,” Kivimäki explains.

“We invest in them with competitive salaries, training and a supportive environment all around.”

For both staff and children, a normal day at Scandinavian School Costa Blanca begins with movement to help build focus and community. Mixed-age activities, friendship weeks and a strong student well-being team also help create a culture where kindness, respect and belonging come first. Children who previously felt anxious or overlooked often rediscover January 2026

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Ski Destination of the Month, Norway

Visit Norway’s very own winter haven, Geilo Looking for powdery peaks this winter? For long, Geilo has been, and continues to be, the go-to destination for families, adventure-seekers, and international travellers seeking a complete winter experience, grounded in nature, tradition and high-quality alpine offerings.

By Celina Tran

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Photos: Paul Lockheart

Arriving in Geilo in mid-winter feels like stepping into a snow globe brought to life. At 800 metres above sea level and embraced by the vast landscapes of Hallingskarvet and Hardangervidda, this historic mountain village has long been one of Norway’s classic ski destinations.

“Geilo has long traditions as a skiing destination,” says Unni Nymoen Waldal of SkiGeilo AS. “For international guests, the combination of solid ski experiences, striking nature and simple accessibility makes it both a safe and complete choice.”

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Positioned between two national parks, the village offers an immediate sense of mountain freedom yet remains uniquely accessible via both road and rail. Winters here are long and reliable, from the first snowfall to the bright days of spring. “There are varied terrains, a long season and solid facilities, making it convenient for Norwegian and international visitors alike,” says Waldal.

And if that is not enough, Geilo has been crowned Norway’s Best Ski Resort seven years in a row and was recently listed among Europe’s top 20 ski destinations

by Condé Nast Traveller.

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Kikuttoppen.

Langedrag naturpark dog sledding.

Here, the experience is as much about being together as it is about skiing. Couples get to enjoy romantic sights, children celebrate small victories on the slopes, and evenings are spent gathering around a fireplace or enjoying a casual dinner with the snow falling outside. Geilo is a place for creating lasting memories.

Winter at full strength January is when Geilo settles fully into its winter rhythm. The slopes are crisp, the air is bright, and the mountain atmosphere is at its purest. Families find gentle spaces to learn, with free on-snow activities such as kids’ races and themed events that fill the days with laughter. More experienced skiers can explore varied terrain across both sides of the valley, linked conveniently by the resort’s free ski bus.

“Alpine skiing is excellent, with wellprepared slopes ranging from wide,

Kakut Bistro food.

family-friendly runs to more challenging terrain. Families will also find a selection of free activities such as KidsRenn, ChildrensDisco on the slopes and Kids SkiPatrol,” says Waldal. “The area also offers an extensive network of cross-country trails, suitable for both relaxed touring and more intense training. For those wanting something beyond alpine skiing, you can go dog sledding or perhaps enjoy a snowmobile ride or try tobogganing.”

Not a fan of the mountainous rush? No worries! Many hotels offer spa and wellness facilities, ideal after a long day outdoors. And as the sun sets, the village shifts gently into social mode, with after-ski gatherings, mountain dining and fireside evenings that give Geilo its warm, convivial character.

“Alpine is often the big attraction, but there are always plenty of activities, January 2026

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Town centre.

A year-round experience

nection. Families can move at their own pace, enjoying gentle runs or structured children’s activities, while adults can weave in wellness, social gatherings, or early morning slopes followed by a long breakfast watching the mountains wake.

restaurants in town to mountain lodges with breathtaking views. Wine bars perched at the top of the slopes add an extra touch of sophistication, making it easy to combine alpine adventures with leisurely indulgence.

Unlike a lot of large commercial ski resorts, the village of Geilo exudes a sense of calm, making it easy to relax without giving up excitement. Free ski buses shuttle visitors between slopes and lodges, while restaurants and mountain cafés invite moments of pause and con-

“Beyond our reputation as a hub for nature and adventure, Geilo also offers plenty for travellers seeking relaxation, shopping, or local culinary experiences,” says Waldal. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of dining options, from cosy

Culture and history enthusiasts are also well catered for. Geilojordet Museum offers a glimpse into the past with farmhouses from the 1700s, opportunities to enjoy traditional porridge, and live theatre performances that bring histo-

events, and social life – perfect for a big group of people with different needs. No matter what, Geilo has something special for everyone,” Waldal adds.

Vestlia resort.

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ry to life. The Fejko Cultural Heritage Site delves even further back, showcasing relics from historic and prehistoric times, including Viking-era burial mounds, coal pits, ironworks, and an old hay barn. These sites offer a vivid sense of the area’s rich past and are a true treat for visitors interested in cultural heritage.

“Other notable attractions include the Old Hol Church, Geilo Culture Church, Dagali Museum, and Huldreskogen, an enchanting outdoor art installation

by Margrete Birkeland inspired by the mythical huldrefolket.”

What makes Geilo unique is its versatility. Unlike other mountain destinations that focus on one season or activity, Geilo has something for everyone, yearround. Families can combine gentle slopes with cosy mountain lunches, culture buffs can trace history across museums and heritage sites, and anyone seeking relaxation can enjoy spa treatments or a quiet moment in the snow.

With a legacy of more than 150 years in hospitality, Geilo blends tradition, adventure, and modern comforts, making it the place to make memories for generations to come. www.geilo.com Facebook: geilo Instagram: @visitgeilo Skiing school.

Northern Lights across kikutoppen. Photo: Guro Palgardhaugen

Rafting in summer.

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Hotel of the Month, Finland

Experience the magical beauty of the Arctic In Äkäslompolo, a village perched on the northern shores of Lake Äkäslompolo and surrounded by seven fells, the landscape’s appeal is difficult to capture in words. Here, family-run Ylläshumina and Luxury Lodge L7 offer visitors tranquillity, exceptional comfort and unparalleled winter experiences rooted in the region’s natural rhythm.

By Ndéla Faye

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Photos: Ylläshumina, Luxury Lodge L7 and Q5 Safaris

Ylläs and Äkäslompolo have become some of the most popular tourist destinations in Finnish Lapland – and for good reason.

The area’s peacefulness, pure Arctic air, and warm hospitality enchant visitors and keep them returning year after year.

Founded in the 1980s by Meeri and Toivo Qvist, Ylläshumina has grown gradually, shaped by both necessity and intuition.

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New buildings appeared as the family expanded, and services developed as guests’ interests evolved. International skiers discovered the property early on and today, the business encompasses rustic log cabins, a restaurant and bistro, the luxury villa L7, and a private excursion company. The businesses now employ the family’s children and extended family members, as well as

many locals, continuing the legacy of a genuinely local enterprise.

A hotel experience unlike others Although Ylläshumina is referred to as a hotel, it is far from a conventional hotel complex. Accommodation consists of individual, rustic log houses equipped with the usual hotel amenities and fireplaces, offering guests both cosy comfort and privacy. The timber interiors are designed in a style that reflects the region’s rich traditions.

“We’re a small family business, and providing an authentic holiday experience alongside warm service is a matter of

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pride for us. We want to show guests what real Lappish culture is like, and we employ a lot of locals,” Toivo Qvist says.

Guests can enjoy a family dinner or an intimate meal at Humina Restaurant, or at the Bistro & Bar. Restaurant Ylläshumina serves a generous breakfast and an evening buffet, complemented by themed dinner nights. The kitchen’s philosophy is simple: pure northern flavours and authentic ingredients. Reindeer, game, fish and Lapland’s berries form the basis for many of the dishes.

The Bistro & Bar – an ideal place to enjoy the cosy atmosphere before and after dinner – serves rustic flavours in a relaxed atmosphere. Its à la carte menu is accompanied by special menus that can be tailored into complete dining experiences on request.

Guests also have access to a sauna and an outdoor hot tub, which are both must-try experiences for visiting the Arctic under starry skies, with snow-covered scenery and Northern Lights on clear nights.

○ At Ylläshumina, guests can expect cosy, pleasant and practical accommodation just a few feet away from ski trails and walking paths, as well as opportunities for other activities and fell exploration.

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Q5 Safaris’ Skishop offers professional guidance to help guests choose the right rental skis, boots and equipment for activities. In addition, the Skishop sells gloves, hats, socks and other essentials for Arctic winter adventures.

Providing unforgettable winter experiences Through the hotel’s own Q5 Safaris, guests can join husky or snowmobile safaris, guided snowshoe tours, ice fishing excursions or cross-country skiing trips that cut through the pristine Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park.

At Q5’s Skishop, guests receive professional guidance in choosing the right equipment for any activity. The shop also provides a wide selection of winter gear, from snowshoes and skis to hats, gloves, coats and thermal layers, so that visitors can travel light and still be fully prepared for Arctic conditions.

A luxury retreat in the middle of nature For those seeking a luxurious winter retreat in a peaceful, private location, the L7 Luxury Lodge, situated right on the edge of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, offers a different kind of stillness.

The building itself is impressive, with all furnishings custom-made for the lodge.

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ness of the untouched nature around it, are truly breathtaking,” the owner says.

The private lodge is located on the shores of both a river and a lake, and it is surrounded by more than 28 hectares of private forest, yet it is only six kilometres from the village of Äkäslompolo and the popular Ylläs ski resort.

It is ideal for ski enthusiasts in the winter, as a large network of ski trails is accessible immediately from the lodge’s doorstep. In addition, the lodge’s own guides provide

tailor-made activities – from snowshoeing to Northern Lights outings, as well as biking and hiking and husky and snowmobile safaris – allowing guests to explore the Arctic environment and everything it has to offer all year round.

L7 has seven bedrooms, each with its own bathroom and living area. The heart of the lodge is the large living room, which features a stone fireplace as well as a separate dining area. For ultimate luxury and relaxation, guests have access to a sauna and a large outdoor hot tub.

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L7 is a full-service luxury hotel experience: breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared daily by a private chef, and a dedicated host is on hand around the clock.

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Luxury Lodge L7 offers guests a truly special Arctic experience; the atmospheric accommodation of a private Lappish lodge, a world-class Lappish food experience and many varied activities guided by the Lodge’s own guides.

Here, guests can truly disconnect from their busy lives and reconnect with the quiet pace of nature, while also catching a glimpse into the region’s history, stunning landscape and the captivating mystique of Lappish folklore.

“This place is a true gem. The lodge’s scale and ambiance, first-class service and the surrounding pure, untouched nature make it a truly special holiday destination,” Qvist says. Both Ylläshumina and L7 offer visitors a sense of warmth and a relaxing retreat with the perfect chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Arctic.

Ylläshumina: www.yllashumina.com Facebook: Ylläshumina Instagram: @yllashumina Luxury Lodge L7: www.luxurylodge.fi January 2026

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Hotel of the Month, Denmark

The woodland escape you did not know you needed Tucked deep inside the vast beech forests of Gisselfeld Castle, The Woodland Lodge offers a rare blend of restorative calm, historic ambience, and quiet concentration.

Here, guests come to recharge among the trees, while companies use the lodge’s Flowcus – flow and focus – concept to think clearly, reset and create new ideas.

Recognised with several awards, including Best Romantic Countryside Getaway, the hotel has become a sought-after escape for travellers seeking nature, stillness and a slower rhythm.

By Signe Hansen

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Photos: Sisse Langfeldt/@imagesbylangfeldt

Set in a historic forester’s residence on the edge of Gisselfeld Castle´s lush woodlands, The Woodland Lodge feels both intimate and expansive. Eight generously sized double rooms flow through the high-ceilinged house, where large English-style windows frame treetops and shifting forest light. The atmosphere is quietly luxurious: classic furniture, soft colours, and an aesthetic that 76

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honours the building’s heritage. Around the lodge, winding paths lead to natural oases, stargazing clearings, and cycling and walking routes to the many attractions of Gisselfeld Castle.

“People are surprised by how deeply the forest affects them,” says owner Anette Maria Syska. “Cortisol levels drop dramatically within two hours in the woods.

You feel your body settling. Guests often say that they hadn’t realised how much they needed the quiet until they arrived.”

A house shaped by nature and history The Woodland Lodge is housed in the former forester’s residence for Gisselfeld Castle, built in 1906 by Martin Nyrop, the architect behind Copenhagen City Hall.

Nyrop placed great care on how buildings sat within the landscape, inviting light in and celebrating local traditions, flora and fauna. The result is a lodge with unusually generous rooms, detailed woodwork, and windows that seem designed for watching the forest breathe.

“The house has a remarkable flow, and a lot of the historic details remain intact,” Syska explains. “Some rooms still have

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their original washbasins; it’s very charming, and guests often comment on that, saying it’s almost like at an old seaside hotel from the movies.”

Creating Flowcus in the woods With a background as a chief organisational consultant specialising in tourism concepts, aesthetic leadership and meeting design, Syska never planned to run a hotel. However, as she was working on a project for Gisselfeld Castle, the historic house became available, and the idea of creating a forest-based retreat slowly grew.

“I had spent years exploring what happens when we bring meetings into nature, when we give people space to concentrate,” she says. “Eventually, I thought – why not try it myself and combine it with leisure?”

Today, that vision shapes the lodge’s signature concept, Flowcus, which blends flow time with focused work sessions in the house and woodlands. Companies arrive to rethink strategies or write scripts; authors settle in to finish manuscripts; and individuals book a single room for a night or five simply to find peace and Flowcus.

“It’s not inefficiency,” Syska adds. “It’s the opposite. Results become sharper when people slow down. Those who come for holidays also enjoy the calm, but those who come to work often tell us it’s some of the most productive time they’ve ever had.”

Interior warmth and thoughtful service Inside, the lodge is furnished with a gentle, lived-in aesthetic built around 80–90 per cent reused pieces. Historic furniture and vintage finds give each room its own charm and character, and the Woodland Vintage Shop allows visitors to take a piece of that atmosphere with them.

“People fall in love with the old things,” she says. “We make a virtue of the simple and the timeless. It resonates with the guests and what the world needs.”

Summer brings Woodland Glamping, with a canvas tent overlooking every shade of green. Larger events – from weddings to corporate retreats - unfold across the garden, terraces and forest edge. Weekends often include guided walks, slow-tempo forest journeys, with wild snacks like nettle crisps and plants foraged from the forest floor. The lodge’s event calendar continues to grow with tailored experiences, from strategy sessions in open-air tents to writing therapy and stargazing evenings.

Owner Anette Maria Syska.

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“We tell the stories of the star formations and explain the effect of darkness on the body while guests lie on field beds under the sky, drinking warm spiced juice,” Syska says. “It’s incredibly special.”

Nearby, guests find everything from cycling routes and gentle walking paths and local restaurants such as Restaurant Villa Gallina and Rønnede Kro. At the lodge, they can enjoy a pre-booked breakfast and for events and meetings, full catering.

Explore The Forest Realm and slow down Located within Destination Gisselfeld, many attractions are within easy reach of the lodge: the famous Forest Tower, the atmospheric conservatory Paradehuset, and Veras Verden’s handpicked country-design shop. Visitors are often struck by the scale of the landscape architecture and the sense of history – Hans Christian Andersen once stayed at Gisselfeld, and got inspired to one of his most famous fairy tales, The Ugly Duckling, and the castle recently opened for guided tours.

“This area has a special peace,” Syska reflects. “People often wish they’d booked two nights instead of one. They come for the stillness, the aesthetic, and the chance to really breathe just one hour from Copenhagen.” www.thewoodlandlodge.dk Facebook: thewoodlandlodgedk Instagram: @thewoodlandlodgedk January 2026

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Esperanza Lake Resort has just been fully renovated with a wabi-sabi inspired aesthetic.

Hotel of the Month, Lithuania

A lakeside retreat shaped by nature

Surrounded by the stillness of Lake Ungurys and the deep forests of Lithuania’s Aukštadvaris Regional Park, the beautiful design of Esperanza Lake Resort reflects a genuine nature-first philosophy. The retreat is defined by quiet lakeside views, soft winter light, and a spa designed for deep rest – a combination of untouched nature and refined comfort so enchanting that the hotel, as one of just two hotels in Lithuania, has been awarded a Michelin Key.

aesthetic: stone, wood, linen and muted earthy tones that echo the season outside. The intention has always been to place nature at the centre rather than the structure itself.

By Signe Hansen

At the heart of the experience is the spa – a warm contrast to the crisp outdoor air. Guests move between the sauna, hammam, salt room, indoor pool and whirlpool overlooking the lake, before settling into treatments that range from classic massages to the Nuvola dry-floating bed and advanced therapies targeting sleep, circulation and deep relaxation.

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Set on eleven hectares of private land, Esperanza Lake Resort feels like a calm, self-contained world. Guests can choose between 28 minimalist, natureled rooms or two secluded villas, all designed to draw the outdoors in through soft textures, natural materials and windows framing the lake or forest.

In winter, the landscape grows still, and snow-covered trails and scenic sauna sessions create a sense of calm hard to come by. “Winter is perhaps the 78

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most magical season here,” says sales manager, Aurelija Miliauskienė. “The lake mists at sunrise, the forest turns frosted white, and guests wake to views that feel almost untouched.”

This tranquillity is matched by a thoughtful architectural approach.

Originally built from Canadian cedar logs and shaped to sit gently within the forest line, the resort has just been fully renovated with a wabi-sabi inspired

A warm winter embrace

“With panoramic views, soft lighting and quiet architecture, the spa becomes more than a facility,” Aurelija notes. “It’s

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a seasonal sanctuary, where guests can slow down, rest and restore both body and mind.”

Indeed, guests looking for complete wellness bliss can start the day with a yoga session, decompress in the hammam or sauna, and end with a personalised treatment overlooking the forest.

Activities for all ages Visitors, however, come for a variety of reasons: couples seek stillness, wellness-focused guests seek a restorative break, and families enjoy the ease of a smaller-scale retreat and a dedicated kids’ programmes.

“Families choose Esperanza Lake Resort for its sense of ease. There is space to explore, activities for children, and the comfort of nature right outside the door,” says Aurelija. “For couples, it’s the stillness and the intimacy of a smaller-scale retreat. They enjoy slow mornings with in-room breakfast, spa rituals, private dinners overlooking the lake, and slow walks through the forest — all framed by a setting that feels secluded yet deeply romantic.”

Other winter activities include sledging or ice skating, and visiting the resort’s on-site animal refuge to meet the charming animals, including alpacas.

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With Trakai and its island castle only a short drive away, and Vilnius’ UNESCOlisted Old Town architecture within easy reach, guests can also combine peaceful seclusion with culture and city life. “The historic Trakai Castle, set on its own island, is one of Lithuania’s most iconic sights – particularly atmospheric when surrounded by snow and mist,” says Aurelija. Yet most find themselves drawn back to the quiet rhythm of the lake, where the coldest months can be transformed into the most comforting time of year. www.esperanzaresort.lt Facebook: esperanzaresortspa Instagram: @esperanza.lakeresort

At the heart of the resort’s restorative experience is its spa.

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Hotel of the Month

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Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Slow days and warm hospitality

by Møn’s UNESCO-listed cliffs Perched by the stunning UNESCO-listed landscape of Møns Klint, Ellevilde Boutique Hotel offers a haven of stillness, flavour and thoughtful hospitality. Guests come for the sweeping views towards the island’s coastline and stay for the gently restorative rhythm of the place. With personal service at its heart, the hotel offers an experience shaped as much by its setting as by the newly relocated couple who bring it all to life with popular culinary delights and sauna sessions.

By Signe Hansen

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Photos: Ellevilde Boutique Hotel

“We hope to share with our guests the same stillness and beauty that we have found here,” says Kirstine Ellegaard, co-owner of Ellevilde Boutique Hotel.

At the beginning of 2025, Kirstine and her husband, Kenneth Ellegaard, moved from Greve to Møn with their three children, exchanging a hectic daily routine for a place that instantly felt full of possibility. “The quiet, the nature, the views to both sides of the water – we immediately saw that we could create something special here,” Kirstine recalls.

On top of the sweeping views across the landscape, the former country house had exactly the right size, facilities and calm, unpolished charm the couple needed to fulfil their vision of the perfect personal hospitality.

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Having headed the successful restaurant 56° in Copenhagen for 16 years, Kenneth has crafted a highly popular culinary concept for the hotel, balancing simplicity and intention. Working closely with a neighbouring grower, the kitchen builds each day’s dish on whatever is freshly harvested. “It’s very straightforward,” Kirstine says. “We cook for the guests who sign up, we use what grows here, and we keep it sustainable and organic.”

neth, also a trained sauna master, creates gus (heat and aromatherapy sessions) that draw on local scents, sounds and seasonal notes. And after a winter walk along the dramatic chalk cliffs or quiet hours under the dark winter sky of Møn – a designated Dark Sky park – what could be more enchanting than the warmth of the sauna or a tea by the fireside inside.

No wonder, both visitors and locals are already in love. As Kirstine puts it: “Even just a couple of days here are enough for people to feel completely reset.” www.ellevildehotel.dk Facebook: EllevildeBoutiqueHotel Instagram: @ellevilde.hotel

Although initially uncertain about offering only one set dish of the day, their doubts faded quickly; once guests tasted it, they tended to return every evening, and the question became how many outside bookings they could accommodate.

Another successful initiative has been the addition of a sauna to the property. Ken-

Photo: Mikkel Bækgaard

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Built in 1935, the heritage-listed Hotel Astoria features many charming original details.

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Set right next to Copenhagen Central Station, getting around could not be easier.

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Historic settings and modern hospitality in the heart of Copenhagen Hotel Astoria is one of Copenhagen’s most characterful city landmarks – a place where a unique architectural history meets an almost impossibly convenient location beside the central railway station. Today, this heritage-listed hotel combines its original 1930s atmosphere with CIC Hospitality’s focus on technologysupported service and BWH Hotels’ commitment to authentic hospitality, resulting in an award-winning work environment that benefits both guests and employees.

By Signe Hansen

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Photos: Hotel Astoria

Built in 1935 as Denmark’s first purpose-designed railway hotel, Hotel Astoria remains a living piece of Copenhagen history. Many original details have been carefully preserved, allowing guests to step into an ambience that feels both authentic and timeless. “It is like entering a time capsule. Because the building is protected, guests get a unique experience where the soul of the place is maintained,” says hotel manager Oliver Strandvig Holm. “We have kept the original character with cabinets, doors and many other details intact from the original hotel.”

modernised to support its guest-first philosophy. CIC Hospitality, the operator behind the hotel, integrates new technological tools to free staff from traditional reception desks and allow them to act primarily as attentive hosts. As Holm notes, “Our whole philosophy is to put the guest at the centre. We look for technological solutions that let us be present for the guests, not tied to a counter.” This approach aligns closely with BWH Hotels, Scandinavia’s largest group of family-owned hotels, which emphasises genuine, personal and authentic hospitality across all its properties.

While the atmosphere is historic, much of the hotel’s inner workings have been

Of course, part of Astoria’s lasting charm is its unbeatable location. Set directly

beside Copenhagen Central Station, the hotel attracts guests from across Denmark and around the world. “No matter what people need to do, it is easy to get here,” Holm explains. “You have the whole city outside the door, and you can step straight onto the train or bus.” This convenience makes the hotel as popular with leisure travellers as with business guests and those catching early departures from Copenhagen airport.

Yet what truly defines Hotel Astoria today is its commitment to creating a warm, welcoming work environment – something that guests feel the moment they arrive. CIC Hospitality has awarded the hotel its culture award for three consecutive years, for its inclusive atmosphere and strong staff values. “If people feel good at work, the guests feel good too,” Holm says. “You want to go that extra mile because it feels natural.” www.hotelastoria.dk Facebook: hotelastoriacopenhagen# Instagram: @hotel.astoria.copenhagen January 2026

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Destination of the Month, Finland

A place shaped by the seasons, with holidays tailored to every taste Ukonrauha, situated on the shores of Lake Saimaa in the Finnish Lakeland, forms a lakeside hub full of activities and natural calm. Lined by forests and the shores of the largest lake in Finland, it is one of the country’s most striking travel regions, represented by the cities of Imatra, Lappeenranta, Mikkeli, Savonlinna and Varkaus.

By Ndéla Faye

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Photos: goSaimaa

Ukonrauha is located between Lappeenranta and Imatra in eastern Finland, and offers visitors a blend of culture, nature and leisure. Once considered primarily a summer destination, the area now embraces a distinctly year-round identity.

One of the first things visitors notice in the Saimaa region is how effortlessly nature becomes part of the experience.

Stepping outside a lakeside cottage, a spa resort or a hotel places guests directly in the middle of forest and lakeside scenery, with no need for additional travel into the wilderness. Yet, despite this sense of deep immersion, Ukonrauha is only a few hours from Helsinki by train, 82

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bus or car, making it an easy destination even for a short stay.

A range of activities, year-round No two trips are the same, and experiences shift dramatically with the seasons. In the height of summer, visitors swim and

enjoy saunas by Lake Saimaa, head out in canoes and cycle the archipelago route.

Activities feel almost endless, whether in the form of golfing, padel, frisbee golf, hiking paths, lake swimming, paddleboarding or long-distance cycling.

Come winter, the same lake transforms completely. Ski tracks are laid out across its frozen surface, and the bravest can take an ice-hole dip after a hot sauna.

What served as a kayaking route in the summer becomes an ideal setting for ice fishing, cross-country skiing and e-fatbiking along snowy trails. Husky rides through the snowy scenes are another firm winter favourite, alongside snowshoeing and dry suit floating.

Autumn too brings its own appeal, as forests shift into deep shades of red, gold and amber. It is a prime season for hiking, foraging and guided adventures across the region. “Ukonrauha offers a

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broad spectrum of possibilities for all kinds of holidays, with the added advantage that many activities sit close together, making them simple and convenient to reach,” says Katri Hiltunen, project manager at goSaimaa.

Energetic adventures and laid-back leisure For visitors seeking an active holiday, Ukonrauha’s terrain offers plenty to challenge even endurance-focused visitors. A highlight for the season is the First Snow Ski Track in Imatra. The up to four-kilometre-long track, created from snow produced and stored from the previous winter, provides both gentler stretches and more demanding sections for seasoned skiers, with a commitment to maintaining excellent conditions regardless of weather. The result is an early start to the ski season and reliable snow underfoot – or, more importantly, under ski.

Wellness travellers and golfers are also in for a treat, with two spas and, in the summer, three golf courses within a thirty-kilometre radius. Saunas remain popular throughout the year, and the Holiday Club Saimaan Rauha spa hotel alone features seven different varieties.

Imatra Spa Resort, considered one of Finland’s leading spa destinations, offers both serene spa breaks for individuals and couples, and activity-filled and

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family-friendly stays for those travelling with children.

In addition, the Lake Saimaa region has been awarded the European Region of Gastronomy title, recognising its distinctive blend of tradition and innovation, with a deep respect for pure, local ingredients. “Our food culture is closely tied to our landscape,” says Hiltunen.

Accommodation ranges from lakeside cottages to spa resorts and hotels, all positioned with nature close at hand. The surrounding Lake Saimaa landscape, combined with high-quality services, restaurants and a wide range of activities in Ukonrauha, ensures there is something for every age group.

Ukonrauha offers around a hundred activities throughout the year. The range is extensive, and the possibilities are almost limitless. “Whether you’re looking for an activity-filled holiday, or to simply unwind in a hot tub, each guest can tailor their stay as they wish and move at a pace that suits them,” the project manager concludes. www.gosaimaa.com/ukonrauha Facebook: goSaimaa Instagram: @gosaimaa

The Rauha-Ukonniemi development project has received funding from the Regional Council of South Karelia through the Sustainable Growth and Vitality of Regions (AKKE) programme.

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Restaurant of the Month

The 360-degree view from Demo takes in both the city and the surrounding sea.

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Finland

Tommi Tuominen is both chef and owner of Demo in Helsinki, Finland.

Demo uses fresh, local ingredients to create stunning, complex flavours.

Restaurant of the Month, Finland

Leading the Finnish restaurant scene, Demo continues to delight guests Opening a restaurant he would enjoy himself was always chef Tommi Tuominen’s goal. Demo, Finland’s longest-standing Michelin-starred restaurant and the only one serving both lunch and dinner, has now moved from its cosy Punavuori corner to the top of a modern glass high-rise in vibrant Ruoholahti, offering sweeping views over the city and the Baltic Sea.

By Molly McPharlin

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Photos: Demo

“When we originally started in 2003, the world was very different. Restaurants owned by chefs were not seen in Finland,” says Tuominen. “Demo was my first restaurant, and it was difficult to find the space for it, whereas we were invited into our current location. The building’s owners were looking for a top-class restaurant and asked us to move in. I was a little sceptical about moving at first, but it’s turned out to be an exciting new chapter for Demo.”

The atmosphere at Demo is relaxed and informal, a comfortable environment where guests can spend time with friends, colleagues, and family. The view over Helsinki and the water is vast and fantastic, with nearly 360-degree vistas. The food is fresh and flavourful, with highlights such as butter-poached Norwegian cod, Finn84

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ish venison, grilled scallops, and a variety of fresh, daily-baked breads.

“Our concept is fairly traditional. We offer a fixed six-course meal with snacks, with the possibility of adding a few dishes here or there. Our lunch menu is four or six courses and allows for a tranquil dining experience in the middle of the day. We also have an extensive wine cellar with top-quality wines that can be purchased by the glass as well as the bottle,” says Tuominen.

Demo holds a special place in Helsinki’s restaurant scene. Its strong identity and forward-thinking style have made it a model for chef-led restaurants around Finland. Its ambitions now centre on settling into its striking new home and earning a second Michelin star. “Stars have

nothing to do with a memorable dinner.

Memorable moments over food are created by good company, high-quality service, and a warm atmosphere. Such moments can be created in all kinds of restaurants, and also at home,” says Tuominen. “But Michelin stars are an excellent way to find exceptionally good restaurants, especially in an unfamiliar country, and they help guide us to become the best restaurant we can be.” www.restaurantdemo.fi Facebook: Restaurant Demo Tripadvisor: Demo Instagram: @restaurant_demo

The delicate intricacy of a dish from Demo.

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Restaurant of the Month, Finland

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By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Laura Dahlman and Elias Markkula

Relishing good food and fine wine in cosy Tampere During the pandemic, restaurant closures became a fact of life. But in Finland, one restaurant beat the odds to not only open and survive but thrive during the crisis. Apaja in Tampere, is that place.

Opened by chef Juuso Ahvenainen and his business partner Tuomas Norri in a quiet, historic building in the city centre, the restaurant was born from Ahvenainen’s vision of a place where people could come together to enjoy good food and good company in a relaxed setting. “The ingredients used would be grown, hunted, or fished from local areas to show how amazing they can be,” says Ahvenainen.

With a farm-to-table approach, Apaja’s concept is a highly seasonal, sustainable fine-dining experience, taking inspiration from Finnish nature. Eight different 8-course menus are created throughout the year. Each one showcases the atmosphere and seasonal produce of the moment. The Pimeä Aika or winter ‘dark time’ menu, for example, includes dishes such as Jerusalem

Guests come for memorable meals in beautiful surroundings, celebrating dates and special occasions in the restaurant’s cosy, romantic atmosphere. Loved by locals and quietly discovered by international food travellers, it remains one of the city’s true hidden gems. Ahvenainen says; “We’d love to welcome more guests from outside of Finland, so that they can also enjoy what Apaja has to offer.” www.apajaravintola.fi Instagram: @apaja_restaurant

artichoke with pear and sorrel, venison with rowan and red cabbage, completed with a rosehip, raspberry and pistachio sweet. “We began by changing the menu every week, but gradually found our way to the current pattern,” says Ahvenainen. “This creates a nice rhythm to the year and has allowed us to develop a high level of food and service that has been positively recognised by many publications in the region.”

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Restaurant of the Month, Sweden

Meatballs for the People: The passion project turned Swedish icon In Stockholm’s Södermalm district, Meatballs for the People puts Sweden’s (unofficial) national dish front of mind. But this is not just a restaurant devoted to meatballs – it is a celebration of comfort food and culture. One where stories simmer alongside gravy and every plate is served with curiosity, pride and a dash of humour.

By Emma Roedin

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Photos: Meatballs for the People

The restaurant grew out of a long-standing partnership between Mathias Pilblad, Peder Smith and Tiel Ridderstad, who have worked together in Stockholm’s restaurant scene for more than two decades as part of Bockholmengruppen.

Known for neighbourhood favourites like Nybrogatan 38, they had already built a reputation for warm, bustling spots rooted in local life. And after years of success, they wondered what might come next.

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national culinary team – the answer was surprisingly simple: meatballs, the dish he had loved since childhood.

A kitchen spark The idea truly took shape when Pilblad came across an old meatball-making machine online. It barely worked, but he bought it anyway – and still has it as a form of keepsake. The discovery reignited his instinct to refine and perfect, a habit that followed him from his years of

cooking at an elite level. Soon, the three friends opened a small meatball shop where guests could eat on-site, offering over ten varieties made with the best Swedish ingredients. “We ran the shop for about a year before we realised that the concept deserved a bigger stage, and that’s when the shop morphed into a restaurant,” explains Pilblad.

From there, Meatballs for the People found its true rhythm. The team began testing different meats and blends, always insisting on quality, traceability and Swedish sourcing. Moose, reindeer, and even bear became part of the menu, each one thoughtfully developed. Pilblad is even experimenting with beaver – an example of the playful creativity

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Celebrating Swedish tradition For Swedes, meatballs stir up nostalgia and pride. They are often tied to childhood memories, family gatherings and the unmistakable smell of butter and onions frying in a pan. Visitors feel the magic too: lingonberries, reindeer and classic gravy are all as comforting as exotic.

“Recently, we counted the nationalities visiting the restaurant over two months and counted over eighty, proof that the appeal spans far beyond our small country,” says Pilblad. “We welcome every guest with a big smile and genuine care, whether they’re seasoned locals or firsttime travelling visitors,” he adds.

Part of the restaurant’s charm lies in its partnerships. Its vegetarian meatballs come from Peace of Heaven, a small producer crafting pea-based protein that tastes remarkably rich. They also work closely with Gotlands Brewery to ensure Swedish beer is always part of the experience. Not to mention the playful merch – including the popular We Love Balls designs inspired by The Rolling Stones – which reflects their ability to blend fun with tradition.

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future. Pilblad is involved in a pioneering cultivated-meat initiative outside Malmö, where cells are grown in nutrient solution to produce meat. While awaiting EU approval, the project signals a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and sourcing. The team has also published a cookbook – developed with publisher John Croft in the UK – which gathers their recipes and stories in one place; it is, of course, sold at the restaurant.

that keeps the restaurant moving. In the early days, even IKEA stopped by to see what was happening in this unusually dedicated kitchen.

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And although the restaurant is often full to the brim, the team has no desire to move. The building has character and history, and its cosy atmosphere is part of the charm. Instead, they will collaborate with a historic Swedish carpentry workshop next year to build new seating and add a few more spots, all while preserving the building’s soul.

Looking ahead Even as Meatballs for the People honours tradition, it also looks towards the

The Meatballs team has even represented Sweden at the Nobel Banquet afterparty, serving balls of meat late into the night, and returned for last year’s edition with a new blend of mountain cow and moose. There is also talk of expanding the eatery to Gothenburg someday, but nothing is rushed. The restaurant remains a passion project first and foremost, powered by sincerity, curiosity and a deep love of national food heritage.

And just like the meatballs themselves, the experience at Meatballs for the People is both fun, humble and imaginative – a place where tradition meets innovation, and where every plate carries a little (round) piece of Sweden served straight from the heart. www.meatball.se Instagram: @meatballsforthepeople

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Restaurant of the Month, Finland

Photo: Kajaanin ammattikorkeakoulu/ Puruvesi production/Jussi Silvennoinen

The crown jewel of Karelian cuisine The Karelia region in Finland has long stood at the crossroads of cultures and religions, and its food reflects that layered history. At restaurant Parppeinpirtti, the focus is on straightforward and honest cooking that offers diners authentic tastes of Karelia and a glimpse into its traditions and culture.

By Ndéla Faye

Ilomantsi is located in the easternmost corner of Finland, also marking the easternmost point of the continental European Union. It is a region where eastern and western influences meet in everyday life.

Although remote on the map, Ilomantsi is easy to reach: Joensuu Airport and the nearest train connections are only about 70 kilometres away, offering convenient access by air or rail.

Visitors in search of an authentic Karelian atmosphere often begin their journey at Parppeinpirtti, a beloved restaurant that has grown into a cultural landmark in its own right, winning the hearts of many travellers.

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Authentic Karelian hospitality Inside Parppeinpirtti, guests are instantly met by a homely and familiar atmosphere.

Owner Marjo Niiranen greets everyone with a genuine warmth. The scent of baking and the soft sound of kantele mu-

Photo: Pentti Potkonen

sic accompany diners during their meal.

There are no theatrics here, only genuine tradition: family recipes passed down through generations and ingredients sourced directly from nearby producers.

The building is made from timber logs, which adds to its charm and warm feeling.

“Many of our visitors describe feeling as if they stepped into their grandmother’s home. We want people to feel welcome from the moment they walk in. Hospitality and first-class service are very much part of Karelian culture, and it’s very important to us,” Niiranen says.

Much of the restaurant’s menu reflects the region’s forests, lakes and fields, and Karelian cooking is rooted in simplicity.

“We use the ingredients that our region gives us. They come from local producers whenever possible, and the berries and mushrooms are picked by locals,” says the owner. Oven cooking is central

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Photo: STC tuotanto/Arto Väänänen

to Karelian cuisine, and the slow-cooked Karelian stew remains one of the region’s signature dishes.

Traditional Karelian cuisine The restaurant is open year-round and specialises in traditional Karelian cuisine.

Its signature Karelian buffet is served daily throughout the summer, as well as on Sundays in May and September, and can also be arranged for groups by advance reservation. During peak seasons and public holidays, such as Easter, May Day and Christmas, the restaurant offers a themed buffet.

Parppeinpirtti’s own bakery, affectionately called Piirootsuppu, is a highlight for many visitors. Here, hand-made local savoury pastries are prepared in an open kitchen – and Parppeinpirtti even has its own pastry master, who specialises in making Karelian pies and vatruska, which are baked in full view of guests in the open kitchen.

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Traditional Karelian buffet. Photo: Pasi Kuronen Liemi & Linssi Oy

vaara Rune Singer’s Village is a historical hub that offers a tangible sense of the region’s past and its tradition of rune singing. Parppeinvaara has a collection of historic buildings that reflect the area’s local traditions. The site includes the Rune Singer’s House, which features traditional music and exhibitions, the Border General’s Cabin that once served as a wartime operational headquarters, as well as a small Orthodox chapel.

This presents plenty of opportunities to delve into Karelian culture, from crafts to kantele music, and from Orthodox heritage to wartime history. “Visitors often spend a few days exploring the area and

wandering in the surrounding nature.

There is plenty to see and do here,” Niiranen says.

Meanwhile, the restaurant combines the cultural experience with home-made food and high-quality ingredients. “Our dedicated team puts care into every part of the work. Karelian hospitality and authenticity are part of our everyday life here, and we want our guests to feel that whether they visit for an ordinary lunch or a special celebration,” she concludes. www.parppeinpirtti.fi/en Facebook: Ravintola Parppeinpirtti Instagram: @parppeinpirtti Photo: Pasi Kuronen/ Liemi & Linssi Oy

In Ilomantsi, vatruska are made with a dough of boiled potatoes and flour, filled with rice and formed into a half-moon.

After baking, they are brushed with melted butter and eaten with egg butter. Niiranen notes that variations exist across Karelia. “There is no single correct version, but people here are proud of the way we make them, Ilomantsi style,” she says.

Photo: STC tuotanto/ Arto Väänänen

Keeping Karelian heritage thriving Parppeinpirtti has been a living expression of Karelian culture for more than three decades. Next door, the Parppein-

Kantele and traditional pastries.

Photo: STC tuotanto/Arto Väänänen

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Restaurant of the Month, Norway

Corral’s Tacos and the birria that has all of Oslo drooling Oslo’s food scene has never been more dynamic than now. The city seems to reinvent itself every season, yet there has been something missing, a certain je ne sais quoi.

This was at least the case until Corral’s Tacos entered the game. Fun, flavourful, and authentic, Corral’s Tacos brings a piece of Mexico to Norwegian bellies.

By Celina Tran

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Photos: Corrals Tacos

On any given evening in Oslo, you can wander from minimalist Nordic tasting restaurants to ramen bars, bao kiosks and coffee nooks, and still feel like you have only skimmed the surface. The city’s food scene is buzzing, restless, inventive, hungry for the next thing. Yet in this maze of pop-ups and polished restaurant concepts, there is one place that people keep talking about with the kind of enthusiasm normally reserved for hometown heroes.

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tacos. Corral’s Tacos has become the capital’s unlikely cult favourite: a warm pocket of Mexican soul, originally served out of a food truck by one singular man.

Ole Victor Corral.

The road from food truck to restaurant Ole Victor Corral had long dreamed of creating something of his own. Growing up in a Mexican-Norwegian household, he was introduced to Mexico’s flavours early on and decided his project should tap into the tastes of his childhood.

“I was looking for a project that felt meaningful,” he explains. “Food was the red thread, something connected to my background, something I cared about.” So, he launched a modest food truck. At first, it was a one-man operation: Ole cooked, served, marketed, cleaned – everything.

“I stood there making tacos with a queue down the street. It was, of course, fun, but very, very intense,” Corral recounts.

One day, his personal trainer happened to show up. “He saw that I was struggling

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beers, cocktails, and even Jarritos at Økern. The atmosphere strikes a rare balance of casual and unpolished, yet intentional. “The good vibes behind the scenes transfer into the restaurants.

I’m very proud of the work environment and culture we’ve worked very hard to establish. People get along well, and communication is good. Our team actually looks forward to coming in, which is incredibly important to me.”

and asked if I needed a hand. He jumped straight into the truck and started working. I offered him the job on the spot, and he’s still here today.”

What followed was a fast, almost surreal expansion. The first restaurant opened in May 2023, transforming the intimate energy of the truck into a warm, lived-in space where people stayed longer than they intended. Then Økern came, then Asker, each with its own personality but sharing the same backbone of good flavours. Social media amplified the momentum, with videos of melty birria tacos dipping into steaming consommé spreading far beyond the capital’s streets.

Soon the accolades came, too, including Wolt’s Newcomer of the Year 2023 and Aftenposten Oslo’s Best Food on the Go 2023. “We opened the two new restaurants within one month,” Corral says. “It’s been exhilarating, but a lot of work, to say the least.”

into corn tortillas and served with a rich, spicy broth that draws people back again and again.

“What often surprises new guests, though, is the atmosphere at our restaurants. We’ve lovely locations, interiors, music, and good vibes in general,” says Corral. Each Corral’s location has its own personality, but they share a certain unpolished warmth. Solli has a homely feel, Økern feels like a local hangout with its quiz nights and small events, and Asker recently opened to a full house and a surge of energy that will undoubtedly continue to carry it.

Wonderful drinks, too, are served at the restaurants – margaritas, Mexican

In the last three years, Corral’s Tacos have seen a growth and momentum most start-ups can only dream of. Going forward, they have only one goal: to continue maintaining quality and keeping their customers happy. “We’re very grateful for our guests,” Corral says. “We just want people to enjoy our food.”

Next year, when Norway plays in the World Cup, Corral plans to be part of the excitement. “People should know that they can come and watch the matches here,” he says. But when asked about a hypothetical Norway-Mexico final, diplomacy kicks in, and he concludes: “I’m afraid I can’t say who I’d be cheering for.” At least we know one thing: there will be Norwegian-Mexican tacos for the celebration. www.corralstacos.no Facebook: Corral’s Tacos Instagram: @corralstacos

Good tacos, good vibes, and a hopeful final “We focus on one thing: tacos done right,” says Corral. For him, a taco is deceptively simple, but that simplicity demands precision. The meat has to be tender, the seasoning balanced, the tortilla warm enough to feel alive in your hands. That instinct for taste, shaped by a childhood steeped in Mexican cooking, guides everything served at Corral’s Tacos. Its birria in particular has become something of a signature: slow-cooked beef folded January 2026

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At Holmely, guests can enjoy the restorative power of nature and stillness.

Getaway of the Month, Denmark

Find calm and connection at Holmely Set among the rolling hills, lakes and forests of central Jutland, Holmely offers a gentle escape into nature. Guests come for quiet walks, e-bike tours, and evenings around the fire, where vegetables from the garden are turned into delicious bonfire meals. Homegrown hospitality, quirky ideas, and a deep love for the landscape shape everything here.

By Signe Hansen

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Photos: Holmely

Just south of Mossø, tucked away in Jutland’s scenic lake highlands, Holmely offers a peaceful getaway with glamping tents, treetop shelters, and farmhouse rooms, all framed by open meadows and woodland. Owner Heidi Holm explains; “This area is completely unique. We live right in the heart of Søhøjlandet, with the Gudenå rising nearby, deep forests, and some of the highest viewpoints in Denmark. You feel immediately that there is something special about it.”

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pits, outdoor bathtubs and nature experiences, help guests settle into a slower rhythm and immerse in the surrounding landscape.

Beer tasting and gourmet bonfire food is one of Homely’s most popular events, created in collaboration with chef Xenia and the local Olsens Brewery.

Rooted in landscape and life experience Born and raised in central Jutland, Holm returned after years of travelling abroad, studies, and a demanding career in advertising. “I ended up burning out and realised I needed to come back to something more grounded,” she says.

In 2020, she bought the old homestead that would become Holmely and slowly began transforming it into a place where people could truly connect with nature.

Covid accelerated her plans as Danes sought outdoor escapes. “People wanted to be outside, to find calm in nature. From there, glamping grew, then e-bike tours, and then new ideas just kept coming.”

Today, the retreat offers 18 overnight spaces across glamping tents, treetop shelters and farmhouse rooms. In addition to accommodations, guests can (during high season and/or via pre-booking) enjoy a breakfast buffet in the farm-

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house’s cosy living room, a packed lunch, gourmet-style meals cooked over the fire, tapas boards, or a delicious ready-made meal prepared with vegetables from the garden, ready to be cooked over the bonfire. “People love that – when they arrive, they can go straight to the fire pit, and cook their own dinner, without having to shop first,” says Holm.

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Den Genfundne Bro and Gudenåen are just some of the attractions visited on e-bike tours.

A special employee event Inspired by nature, Holmely offers a range of facilities and activities for travellers as well as for companies seeking to create a special meeting or employee event. An old tool shed has been restored into a rustic, atmospheric space for company events, workshops and creative retreats, while the main house has a spacious living room that can also host meetings for smaller groups. Both spaces are intentionally low-tech, encouraging connection, conversation and presence.

Outdoor activities cater to guests of all ages. Gourmet, culture and nature E-bike tours remain especially popular among older visitors, while younger guests often gravitate towards the treetop shelters, glamping tents and the outdoor bathtub experience.

One of the retreat’s most distinctive experiences is the gin walk. “We walk about 7.5 kilometres through the valley and forest and stop four times for se-

lected gins with a bit of history behind them. When people walk together, talking comes naturally,” Holme explains.

“And, the gin helps the conversation along too,” she adds with a laugh. After the walk, many groups gather for campfire food and social dining.

An event popular with both businesses and private groups is the Beers and Bonfire gourmet dinner, which pairs beer from local breweries with gourmet food cooked over the open fire. Another popular activity for company retreats is wood carving, which in safe, expert hands lets participants try their hand at chainsaw wood sculpting.

Peace, presence and the spirit of the place For many visitors, the true appeal of Holmely lies in its atmosphere – spacious, quiet and deeply rooted in nature.

“People have forgotten how still it can be,” Holm says. “Here you can see far, feel the weather coming in from the

west, watch the sunsets and enjoy the many birds, insects and small animals that thrive in our wild nature.”

The retreat is intentionally simple and sustainable. Furniture is mostly reused, and the grounds are left wild with nettles, thistles and native plants that support local insects. “It may look a bit rough to some, but it’s full of life. I want guests to see what real nature is,” stresses the owner.

Ultimately, Holmely is a place to breathe, reconnect and rediscover the value of slowing down. “If I feel stressed, I go outside and dig up potatoes. It brings you back into your body,” Holm reflects.

That down-to-earth honesty defines her retreat – a quiet place shaped by landscape, creativity and the desire to create space for others to find calm. www.hosholmely.dk Facebook: hosholmely Instagram: @holme_ly

Combining nature, gin and mild exercise, Holmely’s Gin Walks are hugely popular.

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Treehouse Zeterklippen-Loft at night.

Getaway of the Month, Germany

A treehouse retreat in the heart of nature Experience nature, adventure, and sustainability above the forest floor at the Treetop Resort Lug ins Land, a partner of Harz National Park.

began, and in July 2022, the first guests were warmly welcomed to the resort.

By Nane Steinhoff

Living among the treetops Set on an approximately 5,000-squaremetre plot bordering untouched forest and meadowland, the resort features six individually named treehouses, each inspired by local natural landmarks: Brocken-Loft, Westerklippen-Loft, Zeterklippen-Loft, Froschfelsen-Loft, Ilsestein-Loft, and the latest addition, Scharfenstein-Loft. Designed in a modern, cubic style and built from eco- friendly larch wood, the treehouses rise up to seven metres above the ground, offering breathtaking views over the Harz landscape and direct access to the wonders of the national park. “From our treehouses, you have a dreamlike view into the land and the directly adjacent Harz National Park,” says Thomas Händel.

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Nestled on the edge of the Harz National Park, in Ilsenburg in Germany’s SaxonyAnhalt, the Treetop Resort Lug ins Land offers guests the unique opportunity to sleep among the treetops and wake up to the sights and sounds of one of Germany’s most beautiful natural landscapes. This passion project, founded by Kerstin E. Tiede and Thomas Händel, is more than just an eco-friendly escape. It is an invitation to reconnect with nature, discover the history and culture of the Harz region, and create unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.

The story of Lug ins Land began after the founders’ children had left home, freeing up time and energy to embark on a new adventure. “During a hike on the island of Sardinia, the idea arose to build treehous94

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es,” Kerstin E. Tiede recalls. Alongside Thomas Händel, their dream was to create a place where people could experience the magic of Harz from a new perspective.

Extensive research, sketches, and collaboration with various architects and local craftsmen led to the realisation of this vision. After a challenging three-and-ahalf-year approval process, construction

Founders Kerstin E. Tiede and Thomas Händel. Photo: Michael Palatini

Every thoughtfully designed treehouse includes modern amenities, cosy larch-

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View into the Harz National Park.

Photo: Monique Maume

wood interiors, and terraces for soaking in the sunshine or enjoying the outdoors in all weather. With the choice between 40 square metres for up to four people, or up to 49 square metres of living space for up to six people, freestanding furniture, fully equipped kitchens, and playful touches like swings, trampolines, and hidden corners for children to explore, the resort caters to a wide range of guests. “The Treetop Resort Lug ins Land is a very special place for big and small adventurers, connoisseurs, mountain bikers, nature lovers, seekers of peace, and hikers,” the founders share. Regular courses, such as Zhineng Qigong, yoga, and nature experiences, are also offered, and for ultimate relaxation, several treehouses feature infrared saunas.

For those eager to explore, the Harz region is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Guests can visit the former EastWest German border at Harzer Grenzmuseum, hike or bike along mountain trails, swim in clear lakes, or discover the half-timbered town of Wernigerode and the UNESCO World Heritage town

Quedlinburg. Additional attractions include the renowned Brocken peak, the Harz narrow-gauge railway, glassworks, and the lynx enclosure in Bad Harzburg.

“The history, culture, and nature of Harz, a German low mountain range with the Brocken at 1,141 metres, are all right at your doorstep,” the founders explain.

Sustainability and accessibility at its core While the resort is heated by a local heat network with underfloor heating, it uses untreated larch wood and eco-friendly insulation, and avoids concrete, plastics, and steel wherever possible. Laundry is washed on-site and dried in the pure Harz air when the weather allows.

An electric vehicle charging station, a shuttle service for guests arriving by public transport, and a commitment to local sourcing of products underscore their dedication to environmental responsibility. “We were honoured to receive the Tourism Prize of Saxony-Anhalt in the category sustainability in October 2025,” the founders say, expressing gratitude for the recognition and the community support that made it possible. They are also proud partners

of the Harz National Park and organised a tree-planting campaign with local youth, planting 1,400 trees and shrubs.

Inclusivity is another distinguishing feature of the resort. WesterklippenLoft, for example, is certified for guests with hearing impairments, and wellbehaved pets are welcome in this treehouse too. “All other treehouses are pet-free out of consideration for our guests,” the owners note.

The team’s passion and care are evident in every detail, like the optional breakfast roll service from the neighbourhood bakery. “The Treetop Resort Lug ins Land is our heartfelt project in Harz. We are delighted by every new guest we can introduce to our homeland and by the many repeat visitors who return time and again.”

Whether you are seeking a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a peaceful retreat in nature, Treetop Resort Lug ins Land invites you to experience Harz from an entirely new vantage point – high above the forest floor. www.baumwipfelresort-lug-ins-land.de

Living area with view towards the covered terrace.

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Getaway of the Month, Sweden

Dreamy escape in Swedish Lapland Imagine sleeping inside your own snow globe, with the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. The igloo-style cabins at Ice & Light Village outside Luleå offer breathtaking views of the natural winter landscape. Outside, exciting activities await, and a cosy restaurant provides the perfect place to unwind after a day filled with adventures.

Ice & Light Village is located on the coast of Swedish Lapland, some 30 kilometres south of Luleå, on the outskirts of the charming village of Morön. Here, five snow globe cabins stand in a forest clearing, right next to an open field and near the frozen archipelago.

In the forest, wild animals such as moose, foxes and sea eagles live in their natural environment. On clear nights, with a little luck, you can witness an unforgettable spectacle when the Northern Lights dance across the sky.

“Surrounded by beautiful nature in a quiet area, our igloo-style cabins invite you to relax and take a break from everyday life,” says Pontus Frank, founder and CEO. “Mornings here are just magical; first waking up to a view of the peaceful landscape, and then

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heading to our restaurant for a delicious breakfast.”

On the same site is the cosy restaurant, as well as a tipi tent with reindeer skins, fireplaces and a small bar; and an activity centre. You can try snowshoeing through snowy trails, go on thrilling snowmobile rides, try

By Malin Norman Photos: Damien Noss

your luck at ice fishing, or just relax in the sauna and hot tubs.

The cabins, each sleeping two people, offer the ultimate mix of relaxation – with heating, bathroom and shower, and fresh water – and adventure. “When you come and stay here, you will be able to enjoy the beauty of winter to the fullest,” adds Frank. www.explorelulea.com Facebook: Explore Luleå Instagram: @explore_lulea

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Netherlands

Left: Installation view Tomorrow is a Different Day. Collection 1980 – now. Photo: Gert Jan van Rooij. Right: Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, the original building (A.W. Weissman, 1895) and the new building (designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects). Photo: Ossip van Duivenbode. Bottom: Installation view Yesterday Today. Collection until 1950. Photo: Gert Jan van Rooij

International Museum of the Month, Netherlands

Unbubble at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam The Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art and Design in Amsterdam brings more than a century of art history to life in a sweeping permanent exhibition. With a collection of around 100,000 works and a history defined by being the museum that “brought the latest first,” it remains a place where visitors encounter both familiar icons and unexpected, bold contemporary works.

By Signe Hansen

Founded in 1895, the Stedelijk quickly became known as the Netherlands’ leading museum for modern and contemporary art. Its early embrace of new movements – from Cubism to Russian abstraction – shaped its reputation as an institution in close dialogue with artists and ideas. “The Stedelijk has always had a very close relationship with artists,” says press officer Marie-José Raven. “Jeff Koons’ first major show wasn’t in the US – it was here. Cindy Sherman showed here early on, too. We are not as big as Tate or MoMA, but we have strong connections with artists, and that is reflected in both the collection and the programme.”

Alongside the exhibitions, the building itself is part of the experience: the historic museum adjoins a striking, light-filled modern annexe affectionately known in Amsterdam as ‘the bathtub’.

Inside, visitors can experience a largescale collection presentation of over 500 works, offering a walk-through of the major movements of classic modern, modern, and contemporary art and design from the 1880s to the present. The museum also holds the world’s largest collection of Malevich works outside Russia and continues to expand its holdings of underrepresented female artists. Meanwhile, in the entrance hall, the changing Sculpture Hall presents some of the museum’s most iconic works as well as the best coffee in town and an inspiring gift and book shop, all accessible with no entrance fee.

itors will also be able to immerse themselves in the world of Yayoi Kusama, in one of the museum’s most anticipated upcoming shows.

In the spirit of what Raven calls an invitation to ‘unbubble’, the Stedelijk encourages visitors to step outside their usual tastes and discover something wholly new. “Whenever you visit, you will be surprised by things you haven’t seen before – a big mural by a contemporary artist, an installation you can walk into. Besides the beautiful classic collections, you will be amazed and challenged by new ideas.” www.stedelijk.nl Facebook: Stedelijk Instagram: @stedelijkmuseum

This year’s special exhibitions include a major exhibition devoted to photographer Erwin Olaf, tracing his evolution from socially engaged reportage to his polished, psychologically charged staged photography. In the autumn, visJanuary 2026

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Museum of the Month, Finland

Stepping into the past and present of Finland’s oldest city

Display at archaeological museum Aboa Vetus. Photo: Jari Laurén

On Turku’s picturesque riverside, the Aboa Vetus Ars Nova museum brings together archaeology and contemporary art under one roof.

By Ndéla Faye

Aboa Vetus Ars Nova is a place that welcomes visitors of all ages with open arms.

Beneath the ground, Aboa Vetus, Finland’s only archaeological museum, draws in anyone fascinated by history and offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and explore the past in Finland’s oldest city.

events, including free archaeology lectures, although many of these are held in Finnish. “The museum encourages

The museum emerged from extensive urban archaeological excavations carried out in the 1990s, and today visitors can wander through the basements of medieval stone houses, follow one of the main streets and the narrow alleys of medieval Turku, and gain a vivid sense of what life was like centuries ago.

“What makes the experience particularly impressive is that you can explore the ruins in situ, in their original location,” says Vilma Aaltonen, communications planner at Aboa Vetus Ars Nova.

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hands-on exploration through play and interactive features, making it an especially engaging stop for families,” Aaltonen adds.

The museum’s premises also include an atmospheric chapel located in the cellar of a large medieval stone house.

The chapel can be rented for private occasions, including weddings and christenings. Recent renovations have made Aboa Vetus even more accessible, allowing more people to discover the stories and atmosphere of old Turku.

Contemporary art in a historic palace

Matti Rag Paananen, 7th scream, 2016. The piece is currently on display at Ars Nova. Photo: Jari Laurén

Above ground, spread across two floors of the impressive Rettig Palace, the Ars Nova museum showcases contemporary art in all its forms. It speaks to curious minds and to visitors eager to experience the ever-changing landscape of contemporary artistic expression. The museum’s exhibitions highlight current artists and perspectives on a wide range of themes, offering visitors a continually renewed opportunity to familiarise themselves with works by both Finnish and international artists.

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food as for the welcoming atmosphere.

“Before leaving, visitors should also take a moment to explore the museum shop, where a playful architectural touch allows glimpses into the cellars of Aboa Vetus below through windows set into the shop floor,” says Aaltonen.

A glimpse into what is coming Part of Umppa Niinivaara’s work, Planetary, 2025. The piece is currently on display at Ars Nova. Photo: Jari Laurén

Currently, Ars Nova hosts three art exhibitions. Until late March 2026, the first floor of Ars Nova is dedicated to Finnish artist Umppa Niinivaara’s nature-inspired exhibition, Cave. It explores the unique possibilities of clay and ceramics, delving into forms that emerge from both above and below the surface. “The exhibition takes visitors into another dimension, a space set apart from the world outside. It truly has to be experienced in person,” Aaltonen says.

On the second floor, visitors can explore a rare debut exhibition dedicated to Matti Rag Paananen (1939–2022) until late March. The Turku-born multidisciplinary artist was known for his music, poetry, compositions, and visual art. His oeuvre includes around 700 paintings, and the exhibition presents a generous cross-section of his creative world, fea-

Pablo Picasso, Man with a Sword, 1969. The piece is part of Aboa Vetus Ars Nova museum’s art collection, currently on display at Ars Nova.

Maija Tammi, detail from Hulda & Lilli, 2023.

turing imaginative self-portraits, pocket-sized travel paintings, acrylic works reflecting global events, and pieces inspired by music.

The second floor of the museum also houses the collection exhibition Two Rooms, which presents highlights and recent acquisitions from the art collection of Aboa Vetus Ars Nova Foundation. The collection comprises more than 600 works from the modern and contemporary canon, including pieces by Pablo Picasso, Anish Kapoor, Andy Warhol, Niki de Saint Phalle, and many others.

The museum’s spacious lobby houses Brunndeli café and restaurant, which gives visitors the perfect opportunity to take a breather and recharge during their visit. On weekends, the restaurant’s brunches attract people as much for the

In spring 2026, the museum will present a photography and video exhibition by Finnish artist Maija Tammi, delving into the theme of empathy through visual storytelling. The season will also unveil a renewed selection from the museum’s art collection. Later in the year, designer and visual artist Antti Eklund will debut a project infused with pop art traditions.

In addition, the museum will host an exhibition showcasing works from the collection of PoCo, the pop and contemporary art museum in Tallinn.

Meanwhile, Aboa Vetus will unveil a new display in February featuring treasure objects from the Museum of Turku Cathedral. Aboa Vetus Ars Nova is the perfect way to dive into the past and the present and explore – literally – the city’s ancient foundations, while standing firmly in the present. www.avan.fi Facebook: Aboa Vetus Ars Nova Instagram: @aboavetusarsnova

Museum and the riverside in 2023. Photo: Nana Grahn

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Festival of the Month, Norway

Outdoor movie screening.

Photo: Tromsø International Film Festival

Tromsø International Film Festival: Cinema under the Northern Lights Every January, as darkness still blankets the Arctic city of Tromsø and the sun has yet to return, thousands of film lovers from around the world flock north for one of Scandinavia’s most extraordinary cultural events. The Tromsø International Film Festival (TIFF) is Norway’s largest film festival, and undoubtedly the most atmospheric.

By Celina Tran

For a week in late January, Tromsø transforms into a bustling hub of cinephiles, filmmakers, students, locals, and international guests. Cafés and restaurants brim with lively discussions, while the city itself becomes a stage for surprising cinematic encounters. “People go straight from cinema to cinema – it’s intense, social, and magical,” says festival and programme director, Lisa Hoen.

The festival began in 1991, when local film enthusiasts and the Tromsø cinema team sought to broaden the Norwegian film landscape. At the time, film distribu100

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tion was dominated by American titles, something this motley crew of cinephiles wanted to change. Aiming to bring audiences stories from the rest of the world – films that challenged, provoked, inspired, and offered new cultural perspectives – they planted the seed for what would become Tromsø International Film Festival.

From an audience of 5,200 in its first year, TIFF welcomed more than 62,000 visitors during the festival week in 2025, and reaches over 100,000 people annually through screenings and events year-round. “We want to show films that

expand the understanding of the world, and we’re not afraid to challenge our audience,” Hoen says.

Movie night(s) hosted by Miss Aurora Borealis The festival takes place during the darkest period of the polar winter, when Tromsø has not seen daylight for nearly two months. The darkness does not limit, but rather furthers an even more unique and inclusive cinema experience, especially through the outdoor cinema. On Tromsø’s central square, films illuminate the winter sky from morning to night, creating a communal Arctic experience. In between screenings, festival-goers may catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead.

The sun finally returns on 21 January, often during the festival, turning the

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event into a joint celebration of cinema and Soldagen – the cherished local day of the sun’s return.

TIFF is as much about community as cinema. Accessibility and inclusion are core values, and all films are subtitled in English, making the festival completely international-friendly. Over the years, TIFF has become the most important meeting place for the film industry in the northern region, fostering Arctic film collaborations and serving as a bridge within the Barents area.

Further, youth engagement is a growing priority. A team of young curators now contributes directly to programming, offering fresh perspectives and shaping the next generation of film culture.

Another highlight: live cine-concerts. In 2026, the northern Norwegian classic Stella Polaris (1993) by Knut Erik Jensen will be reborn with a new live score – this time performed by a hardcore rock ensemble. “It will be loud, bold, and unforgettable,” Hoen says.

Photo: Jacob de Hoop

to spark debate. Each year includes international premieres, Norwegian premieres, and curated thematic sections.

With the rise of authoritarianism and contemporary fascism across the world, the 2026 theme of fascism highlights the film industry, as well as the festival’s role as a platform for urgent global conversations.

A programme that reflects the world

Given its geographical and historical context, TIFF has always maintained a strong gaze eastwards. Situated close to Russia and established at the time of the fall of the Soviet Union, the festival has long showcased films from Eastern Europe.

“We’ll be featuring films from Ukrainian and Baltic cinema, as well as try our very best to find independent voices from Russia,” says Hoen. “It’s important for us to view films that reflect the real world, while also giving stage to those voices often suppressed.”

The festival’s programme spans fiction, documentary, experimental cinema, and bold artistic works designed

For those seeking cinematic adrenaline, the beloved Overdrive section delivers

She explains that the festival aims to help people fall in love with cinema as an art form, as well as to bring the world to Tromsø through film. And for international travellers, it provides something truly rare: the chance to experience worldclass cinema, Arctic culture, and natural wonders all at once.

Photo: Mats Gangvik

Lisa Hoen. Photo: Jamie Michael Bivard

eccentric delights: wild horror, twisted comedies, and boundary-pushing genre films that electrify late-night audiences.

One of TIFF’s signature identities lies in Film from the North – a programme dedicated to stories from the Arctic region, including Sámi films and works from the Nordics, Alaska, Greenland, and the wider circumpolar area. “It gives audiences a real sense of what is happening in the Arctic,” says Hoen.

Whether attending your first TIFF or returning as a seasoned festival-goer, one thing is certain: no film festival feels quite like this. www.tiff.no Facebook: Tromsø International Film Festival Instagram: @tromsofilmfest Festival dates: 19-25 January, 2026

Outdoor cinema snowfall.

Photo: Tromsø International Film Festival

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International Holiday Experience of the Month, Germany

A sanctuary among the trees Tucked away in the lush, green parkland of northern Germany lies a hidden gem that promises an unprecedented holiday experience: Resort Baumgeflüster. Ranked among the Top Ten Treehouse Resorts worldwide by Departures magazine, this unique forest retreat invites guests to reconnect with nature and indulge in tranquillity with all the comforts of a luxury hideaway.

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to her guests only upon arrival. In a clearing in the forest, the guests discover four luxurious, solid-built wooden treehouses, proudly standing on stilts approximately 4 metres high among beech and oak trees over 100 years old.

Photos: Tobias Mittmann

Sleeping in a treehouse is a childhood dream for many, but it is not always possible due to a lack of space or resources.

Fortunately, Resort Baumgeflüster offers guests the opportunity to enjoy safe, comfortable treehouse stays surrounded by nature. In a hidden location, by the idyllic spa town of Bad Zwischenahn in the Ammerland region of Lower Saxony, just 40 minutes from the North Sea, lies the Resort Baumgeflüster – The Hidden Treehouse Resort. It is renowned for its innovative concept of treehouse-style accommodations that blend harmoniously into the surrounding forest.

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The treehouses stand on stilts approximately four metres high.

Photo: Resort Baumgeflüster

January 2026

Large enough for luxury, small enough for individuality Owner Insa Otteken reveals the exact location of the well-hidden spot in the forest

The treehouses stand amidst trees that are over 100 years old.

These are not the rustic treehouses of childhood dreams, but rather meticulously designed lodges that combine luxury with sustainability. Inspired by famous architect Le Corbusier, the treehouses were built entirely from untreated, breathable larch wood, thus making them ideal for allergy sufferers. “The scent of the openpored larch wood is unique – it calms the pulse and lowers the heart rate,” Insa Otteken explains. “Many guests report that they haven’t slept so deeply and restfully in a long time.”

Each of the four treehouses has a special interior design theme, from the Alps to

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ing on the resort grounds and, according to Otteken, plans to combine “artistic enjoyment and culinary delights” in a new, unique concept. “Another, larger, architecturally striking solid wood house, as well as a barbecue hut with a grill kota, are also planned for 2026.”

The scent of the open-pored larch wood calms the pulse and lowers the heart rate.

Africa. The treehouses feature floor-toceiling windows with breathtaking views of the trees. The natural light floods the interiors, creating a seamless connection between the inside and the outside. Each suite, measuring approximately 40 square metres, accommodates up to four people and features stylish furnishings. In addition to comfortable beds and a private designer bathroom with underfloor heating, each suite features a spacious terrace, ideal for watching squirrels, pheasants, hares, and deer. In spring, even fawns visit. Bird lovers marvel at the variety of birds, and ornithologists are particularly fascinated by the rare goldcrest.

“We deliberately refrained from adding TVs and radios to the treehouses,” explains Otteken. “The view of the forest – unobstructed and unadulterated – brings peace.” Additionally, as a perceived ‘Dark Sky Place’ with no sources of artificial light around the treehouses, guest can look forward to spectacular starry skies on cloudless nights.

hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. The nearby Park of Gardens showcases a diverse plant life across more than 140,000 square metres, while the idyllic Zwischenahner Meer lake is perfect for water sports, swimming, sailing, or simply a relaxing picnic on its shores. Those seeking a more tranquil experience can enjoy cycling, sailing on the nearby North Sea, observing seals, or taking a mudflat hike to the East Frisian Islands.

Although the resort does not have a traditional restaurant, it offers its guests a small organic breakfast basket delivered to their suites each morning, including freshly baked, still-warm rolls. For dinner, the nearby spa town of Bad Zwischenahn offers a variety of charming restaurants.

The eel, in particular, is a favourite dish among many gourmets.

Whether for a romantic marriage proposal, an unforgettable gift, or an extraordinary break, in a world that often feels overwhelming, Resort Baumgeflüster stands as a testament to the healing power of nature – forest bathing included.

Many who have stayed here describe it as magical and their enthusiasm is evident in their lovingly designed guestbook entries. www.baumgefluester.de Facebook: Resort-Baumgeflüster Instagram: @resortbaumgefluester Andreas Herrmann: Instagram: @stripesandmore.de

Art lovers will also be in their element: artist Andreas Herrmann lives in a buildArtwork by Andreas Herrmann.

Photo: Andreas Herrmann

Glamping with all five senses The resort was founded as the first highend treehouse resort in Germany, based on the conviction that time spent in nature has a profoundly positive effect on mind, body, and soul. This unique philosophy shapes every aspect of the guest experience. From the moment you enter the grounds, you are invited to unwind and let the rhythm of the forest wash over you. As a coolcation place, the treehouses remain pleasantly cool even during hot summers thanks to the natural shade of the trees.

For adventurers and explorers, the Ammerland parkland – Europe’s largest tree nursery and rhododendron growing area – offers numerous opportunities for

Large windows offer breathtaking views.

One of the creative guest book entries.

Photo: Resort Baumgeflüster

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Music as a force for well-being One of the most significant concerts in Sweden, Together For A Better Day is striving to create hope for a better future. Arranged for the third time at Stockholm’s Avicii Arena in December, the unforgettable evening in support of young people’s mental health brought together world-class acts to break the stigma around mental illness.

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Photos: Joakim Ström @fotografstrom1977

The first Together For A Better Day concert took place in 2021, an evening in support of young people’s mental well-being. With some of the music world’s most acclaimed artists and the support of the Royal Swedish Philharmonic Orchestra, the event at Avicii Arena was a massive success, and a new concert followed in 2023.

On 3 December last year, Together For A Better Day returned to Stockholm for the third time with world-class acts including Aloe Blacc, the voice on Avicii’s Wake Me Up – one of Sweden’s biggest hits, as well as funk and disco icon Nile Rodgers, rock duo Good Neighbours 104

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from London, a cappella ensemble The Joy from South Africa, Berlin-based rapper WizTheMe, Norwegian singer Sigrid, and Swedish acts such as Seinabo Sey, Sarah Klang, and Killen, to name just a few.

Ida-Lova, who co-hosted the gala with comedian Christoffer Nyqvist.

Nisse Hasselgren.

The 2025 event, which was also broadcast live on HBO Max, was presented by a praised duo; singer and songwriter Ida-Lova together with comedian Christoffer Nyqvist. “It was such an incredible honour to stand in Avicii Arena and talk about something that’s so close to my heart. And to sing. In front of 13,000 people,” said Ida-Lova in an Instagram post after the event.

Creating hope for the future An initiative by Tim Bergling Foundation, the main purpose of the Together For A Better Day concerts is to support and make visible the work for the mental well-being of young people, with young, forward-looking music artists in focus.

Working to normalise the conversation about mental health and suicide, the concert helps spread hope for a better future. As expressed by Tim Bergling Foundation; “This evening is for every-

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Together For A Better Day

ful to read, but which also carry hope, courage, and direction. It serves as a reminder of responsibility, of the reality young people face, and of what they need to feel good, both today and in the future.”

Podcast, studios and open stage Tim Bergling Foundation also creates opportunities for young people through Studios For A Better Day, with music studios around Sweden designed by Jens Eklund, who was behind Avicii’s studio in Los Angeles, and the new project called Open Stage For A Better Day – both fantastic initiatives for young people to develop their creative side, meet new friends, and realise their music dreams.

Nile Rodgers and Molly Hammar.

one who has felt alone – together we can fight for each other and create faith for a better future!”

Founded in 2019 by Klas Bergling and Anki Lidén in memory of their son Tim Bergling – the Swedish DJ, remixer and record producer known as Avicii – the foundation works to promote the mental health and well-being of children and young people through projects, such as the concerts and other collaborations.

the book was released in partnership with Atrium Ljungberg, this time including 1,000 new quotes from young people up to the age of 25. A call to adults to listen, the book has been presented to Swedish party leaders and was shown during the concert at Avicii Arena.

According to the foundation; “These are words that are sometimes pain-

Together with Ångestpodden, the foundation has also started Podcast For A Better Day, where students can get practical support in starting their own podcast about mental health with, for instance, sourcing equipment and getting digital training. The goal is to create a safe place for young people to talk about difficult feelings.

The aim of Tim Bergling Foundation is a society where young people feel good, feel secure and have faith in the future, with the opportunity to reach their full potential. And those who are still feeling unwell should be offered support quickly.

What we need, for a better day At the heart of the foundation’s work is For A Better Day – an initiative that gathers young people’s voices about what they need to feel good and have a better day. In 2021, the book Det här behöver vi, For A Better Day (This is what we need, For A Better Day) was published in collaboration with Bris, Mind and Suicide Zero. Inspired by Avicii’s song For A Better Day, released in 2015, the book serves as a reminder that young people should not only be described, they should be heard.

In connection with last year’s Together For A Better Day concert, volume 2 of

WizTheMc. Photo: Per Askergren @peraskergren

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Carl-Henning Pedersen & Else Alfelts Museum is one of a small number of artist museums in Denmark. The iconic museum building opened in 1976 and was designed by the renowned C. F. Møller Architects.

The circular main building blends harmoniously into the area’s geometric landscape laid out by the landscape architect C. Th. Sørensen.

C. F. Møller Architects has overseen several expansions of the museum since it opened – most recently in 2015, when the museum was linked to the circular “Angli” building, originally built in 1965 as a textile factory by the same practice.

Carl-Henning Pedersen & Else Alfelts Museum www.chpeamuseum.dk

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New year, new me, new Scandipop

By Karl Batterbee

Hot tunes for a jumpin’ January Back in November, Swedish superstar Robyn returned after a seven-year break between releases with her big comeback song Dopamine. Mercifully, her release schedule is feeling far less sluggish right now, as she’s already out with a fresh new interpretation of the track. The Jamie xx Remix turns Dopamine into a two-part Nordic saga, with an atmospheric and icy intro giving way to a euphoric climax that’s sweltering under the heat of the club at peak time.

Icelandic artist BRÍET is commencing an ambitious new era now via three ‘acts’!

BRÍET – Act I has just been released with lead single Cowboy Killer, with Act II and Act III to follow later in 2026; each reflecting the artist’s different moods, characters and soundscapes. Act I finds BRÍET delving into Americana and injecting her own Icelandic

take on soul music into the mix. Bang Bang is a particularly strong standout from the EP; its dreamiest moment which presents the sonic journey you’d perhaps most like to jump into.

Also in Iceland, Sigga Ózk has recently been packing out cinemas all the way from Reykjavík to Akureyri as the voice of Glinda in the Icelandic dub of Wicked: For Good. But she’s now out with some brand-new music of her own, returning with Man On The Moon; an up-tempo and dreamy star-gazer of a tune. Now that’s defying gravity.

Tuut Tuut Tuut is the title of the new single from Finnish pop icon Robin Packalen. It’s also the term he uses to demonstrate the sound he gets when trying to call a phone number that’s blocked him.

So no prizes for guessing what the song is about! He doesn’t wallow in misery though,

turning his woes into an up-tempo and supremely catchy pop banger for us to enjoy. www.scandipop.co.uk

Monthly Illustration

Survival training In Sweden, survival training was taught as part of the curriculum. By the age of 10, we could all build a basic shelter and carve a flute (important, apparently). By comparison, the kids at my English comprehensive seemed ill-prepared. This was until I realised that British houses are given a solid seven-month course in survival, annually.

We moved from a sturdy 1960s villa in Sweden to a 16th century rickety barn in Kent, with little idea of what this entailed.

Our reasoning was that if it had been standing that long, it would stand a bit longer. In this sense, we were correct. What we had not counted on were the yearly floods, some of which reached window-height, or the fact that central heating in the UK is a kind of cryptic national sport. When, where, and how you switch it on is of utmost importance yet makes almost no difference to the perpetual glacial conditions inside. I soon became accustomed to that distinct heat-rash

By Maria Smedstad

amounts of accelerant on top and hoping for the best became a grim necessity. But there were also newfound sources of joy. For example, in that soft ticking of ancient radiators wheezing to life. And with that, the possibility that maybe, just maybe, if the winds blowing through the house were just right and the rising damp not too rampant, we’d get to experience that rare, British phenomenon of balminess.

that comes with pressing a hot-water bottle to yourself 24/7. My new school-friends (whose hardiness I now understood) taught me to sleep on top of my uniform to warm it up a little before wearing it.

And finally, we discovered coal. In Sweden, a crackling log fire provided a quaint, seasonal touch. In the UK, stuffing a rusty fire-grate with coal, pouring obscene

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.

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Fanny Leander Bornedal in the drama documentary Slave af Danmark. Photo: DR Christine Ekstrand

Nordic film and TV talent to look out for in 2026 Throughout 2025, we have looked at the most significant Nordic Film and TV releases featuring the cream of Nordic stars. But who are the stars of the future – which budding new talents should we look out for in 2026?

the serial adaptation of Peter Høeg’s 1992 bestselling novel Frøken Smillas fornemmelse for sne (Miss Smilla’s Feeling for Snow).

By Anders Lorenzen

Across the Nordic region, a host of new talents are making waves, from children following in the parents’ footsteps to young aspiring actors making a name for themselves through the ranks of the Nordic film and TV sector. Below, we take a look at some of the eye-opening talent worth keeping an eye out for.

Denmark The Danish actor Nicolai Coster-Waldau has been a household name in Denmark since his breakthrough in Nattevagten 108

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(Nightwatch) in 1994, but in the last decade, he has also established himself as an international name, most notably for his role in Game of Thrones and his charitable work for the Red Cross and the United Nations (UN).

Both of his daughters, Filippa and Safina, have followed in his footsteps, pursuing a career in acting and entertainment. So far, the older sister, 25-year-old Filippa, has made the most waves. Currently, she is topical in Smilla’s Sense of Snow,

Coincidentally, the Danish director Ole Bornedal, who also made his breakthrough in Nattevagten, also has a daughter, Fanny, who is making something of a name for herself. The 25-yearold actress appeared in all three seasons of the Danish hit drama Carmen Curlers, a period drama following the Danish innovator Axel Byvang, who pioneered electric hair curlers.

Sweden At the age of 32, Swedish actor and model Frida Gustavsson already has several im-

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Filippa Navarana Coster-Waldau in series 3 of Salsa. Photo: DR Jesper Christensen

pressive titles and performances on her CV. For instance, she was named on The European Film Promotion’s (EFP) top-ten list of promising European talent and won accolades for her portrayal of Marieanne in the 2024 drama, Faithless. Other noteworthy credits on her CV include supporting roles in the Netflix series The Witcher (2019) and Vikings: Valhalla (2022).

Iceland The Icelandic multi-talented performer, 27-year-old Elín Hall was also named on EFP’s top-ten list. She received praise for her ability to combine her music and film talent. In addition to her two music albums, she starred in the internationally recognised 2024 Icelandic film When the Light Breaks, which opened the prestigious Un Certain Regard selection at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. In the film, her character explores the complexity of grief, and many critics noted the depth of the way she internalised her character.

Ullmann Tøndel’s breakthrough came in 2024 with his directorial debut Armand and was also selected in the Un Certain Regard selection at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. The storyline centres on a 6-year-old boy who is accused of crossing boundaries against his best friend at elementary school. The film was Norway’s selection for the 2025 Academy Awards.

Though Tøndel has certainly made a name for himself, he did not emerge out of nowhere. His grandparents, Liv Ullman and Ingmar Bergman, are acting and filmmaking legends from Norway and Sweden respectively, with their work internationally recognised.

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Frida Gustavsson. Photo: Kevin Payravi

for the role, he used a method-acting technique, which involved adopting and training a new dialect, and undergoing a physical transformation in order to capture the presence of Neumann. He has also just secured his first international role in a major production, which is, however, not yet announced.

This is just a few of the superb Nordic film and TV talent emerging. With a crop of talent so extensive, it is impossible to do it justice in one single article. But we will continue to follow the developments of Nordic Film and TV talent, eager to see what artistic delights they will bring us in the new year.

Finland

Norway

From Finland, 29 year-old actor Saku Taittonen is also making waves. Having made a name for himself through his focus and ability to get into character, the actor has been earmarked to represent the next generation of Finnish talent.

35-year-old director Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel is one of the most promising filmmakers to emerge from Norway in recent times, with many anticipating that his emergence will propel Norwegian filmmaking to new heights.

He portrayed the Finnish rockstar Pertti Neumann in the 2024 Finnish film Levoton Tuhkimo, (My Name Is Dingo), a role which earned him a Jussi Award (a Finnish film award). In preparation

Anders Lorenzen is a Danish blogger and film and TV enthusiast living in London.

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Scandinavian Culture Calendar: January 2026 Music, art, theatre, film, ice skating and even contemporary circus… There are plenty of reasons to get off your sofa this January across the Nordics!

By Karl Batterbee

Agnes: Beautiful Madness Live (24 January) Swedish pop icon Agnes sheds her skin and dives headfirst into chaos with Beautiful Madness – her highly anticipated album, which comes out on 23 January. And one day later, she’s showcasing it to fans during her first headline concert in years. Agnes has promised fans that when she steps onto that stage, she’ll be bringing with her a rich musical journey: from teenage pop phenomenon (Agnes won the second series of Idol in Sweden, 20 years ago) to award-winning songwriter and style icon. She’ll follow up the Stockholm gig with her first-ever headline show in London, at Camden’s Koko on 28 January.

Berns, Stockholm www.berns.se

Winter Circus Film (until 25 January) This winter, the much-loved live drama experience for the whole family leaps into the fast-paced world behind the scenes of filmmaking. Winter Circus Film is a joyful, mischievous and high-energy contemporary circus performance. Emotions and other quirky inhabitants of the mind enter a stage that resembles a film studio, set to entertain the audience in all their colourful glory. The story is geared to remind us that happiness can be found in the most unexpected of places, and that everybody can be both the star and director of their own lives. The show features a variety of circus disciplines, including German 110

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Ahead of her first ever headline concert in London, Agnes brings Beautiful Madness to Berns in Stockholm in late January.

Photo: Fredrik Hvass

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The Book of Mormon (until 14 March)

Now in its 31st edition, Finnish audiences have clearly been enjoying what they’ve seen of Winter Circus Film so far! Photo: Dance House Helsinki

wheel, contortion acrobatics, Chinese pole and trapeze. Now in its 31st edition, Finnish audiences have clearly been enjoying what they’ve seen so far.

Erkko Hall, Helsinki www.hurjaruuth.fi

Disney On Ice: Find Your Hero (until 8 February) Families across Scandinavia are invited to discover the hero inside us all at Disney On Ice, as its latest show, Find Your Hero, skates into the Nordic nations this winter. Here, you can step inside the beloved stories of so many classic Disney films brought to life on arena floors. From Encanto, where Mirabel and her family learn that everyone has a special gift, to Moana and Maui, who sail across the ocean. Kids can be inspired as they imagine swimming under the sea with Ariel, exploring with Belle, and singing along with Rapunzel.

There is some world-class ice skating on offer too, alongside the iconic music and stunning costumes that will make Disney On Ice an experience the whole family can treasure forever.

Stockholm, Sweden (9-11 January) Gothenburg, Sweden (16-18 January) Stavanger, Norway (22-25 January) Fornebu, Norway (29-31 January) Helsinki, Finland (5-8 February) www.disneyonice.com 112

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Invisible Race (until 8 March) Showing for three months in the Finnish capital, Invisible Race is a group exhibition that looks at the role of photography and visual culture in the creation of a racialised understanding of humanity, and the effects that photography has had on upholding the existence of racism in societies. Exhibiting at the same time as far-right political parties and movements are on the rise in the Nordics is no coincidence. And its arrival comes as racism has once again become a topic of mainstream social and political discourses.

Visitors have until March to head along to the exhibition and take a look at what history can teach us.

Finnish Museum of Photography, Helsinki www.valokuvataiteenmuseo.fi

Disney On Ice’s latest show Find Your Hero.

Photo: Press Image

The Broadway phenomenon, winner of nine Tony Awards including Best Musical, has arrived in Oslo with a shiny new production tailored to the Norwegian audiences. There are plenty of laughs to be had for those who enter Folketeateret with an open mind. Since opening via its original production in 2011, The Book of Mormon has become one of the most successful shows in Broadway history, breaking the Eugene O’Neill Theatre house record more than 50 times. In addition to nine Tony Awards and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album, the musical also won four Olivier Awards for its West End production, which opened in 2013. Needless to say, Norwegian theatre goers are in for something quite special during its Oslo run, which runs until the middle of March.

Folketeateret, Oslo www.folketeateret.no

Danish Coffee Festival (30 January to 1 February) After an unforgettable 2025 edition with more than 60 exhibitors, Danish Coffee Festival 2026 promises to be even bigger, bolder and more flavourful; bringing together coffee lovers, professionals and curious newcomers for three days of pure coffee inspiration. The festival has proven to be a veritable playground for coffee enthusiasts, featuring: some of the world’s best baristas competing in the Danish Coffee Championships; unlimited tastings from Denmark’s leading roasters and top international coffee brands;

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A shiny new production of the Broadway hit The Book of Mormon has arrived in Oslo, specially catered towards Norwegian audiences. Photos: Fredrik Arff

interactive workshops and cupping sessions, perfect for anyone eager to deepen their coffee knowledge; plus talks and live demos from experts across the industry, from sustainability and sourcing to the art of brewing and serving. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just up for discovering your next favourite blend, the Danish Coffee Festival is all about sharing, learning and celebrating everything that makes coffee culture so popular across the globe.

TAF 1, Copenhagen www.scadenmark.coffee

Norwegian artist Anna of the North will be previewing her new album at shows in Copenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo.

Photo: Press Image

Anna of the North (until 1 February) Responsible for international hits such as Lovers and Dream Girl, Anna of the North is taking her music across Scandinavia with shows in Copenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo. Dreamy electronica will no doubt be on the menu for attendees, with the Norwegian artist always putting her own brand of melodic melancholy into compositions, for guaranteed crowd-pleasing! If you’re heading along to any of the shows, you’ll likely get a taste of her forthcoming album. Its first single Waiting For Love was a hit with both Norwegian radio and international streaming platforms, with music fans hungry in anticipation for more.

Copenhagen (29 January), Stockholm (30 January), Oslo (1 February) www.annaofthenorth.com January 2026

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The Invisible Race exhibition is open until March in Helsinki. Photo: Ana Zibelnik & Jakob Ganslmeier: Bereitschaft, 2024

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DAS GEHEIMNIS DES HOCHALPGEISTES THE SECRET OF THE HIGH ALPINE SPIRIT Sie begeben sich auf eine Zeitreise in das Jahr 1868 und folgen den Spuren des Senners Josef Sprenger anhand seiner Tagebuchnotizen.

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