Embrace your inner journey The charming Vadstena Klosterhotel unites old and new. With a past as a glamorous palace and later a monastery with its own brewery, it is now an excellent spa hotel – a place where you can switch off and relax, and perhaps also try one of the historic brews. By Malin Norman | Photos: Vadstena Klosterhotel
The town of Vadstena has a fascinating history. During the first half of the 14th century, Vadstena Castle housed royal parties so glamorous, they were the envy of Europe’s entire aristocracy. In 1350, Saint Bridget of Sweden took the palace and transformed it into a monastery, a stronghold for quiet, Spartan living. These days, Vadstena Klosterhotel is a meeting place just like in the old times, for work and parties, and also a sanctuary for relaxation and inner peace. “Guests really appreciate the beautiful surroundings in Vadstena,” ensures Matilda Milton, marketing manager at the hotel. “It’s not necessary to climb 46 | Issue 128 | September 2019
a mountain or hike in the forest. You can just go for a nice walk along Lake Vättern, watch the horizon and the magical sunsets, enjoy a slow stroll in the garden or perhaps visit Vadstena Abbey Church, which is a three-star attraction in the Michelin travel guide.”
The pilgrimage heritage Thanks to Saint Bridget, the patron saint of Europe, Vadstena is an important pilgrimage site, and you can, in fact, take a pilgrimage all the way from here to Rome. The spa concept at Vadstena Klosterhotel is based on that pilgrimage legacy and follows a number of key values, such as simplicity and restraint.
Spa manager Sofia Lindholm emphasises Vadstena’s past and the importance of harmony. “The spa world is packed with trends and pressure on how we should look and feel. Instead, we want our spa to reflect our history as a monastery, and we offer activities that fit with our past. This is not a fashionable activity centre; it’s a place for contemplation and an inner journey.” The spa strives to maintain a stress-free environment for its guests. As Lindholm puts it: "We don’t want our guests to be