Scan Magazine, Issue 92, September 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016 ISSUE 92 PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

ASTRID S – NORWAY’S NEW POP NOIR SENSATION BIG SWEDISH SPA SPECIAL NORWEGIAN AND FINNISH AUTUMN AND WINTER EXPERIENCES HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE NORDIC FASHION WEEKS

MARTIN BIGUM 3/9 – 15/1

Martin Bigum, Memory Lane, 2015

Located just outside Copenhagen arken.dk

Scan Magazine | Contents

Contents COVER FEATURE 20 Astrid S

– Norway’s New Pop Noir Sensation She came like a whirlwind to televisions all over Norway when she entered Idol back in 2013, only months after buying her first guitar. Three years on, she has been dubbed “one of the best new popstars in the world” and “a pop noir sensation”, and with a 5 x Platinum single in her bag she is now about to embark on her first European headline tour. Scan Magazine spoke to Astrid S to find that she is still a breath of fresh air, yet far from naive.

20 47

beware; just a look at this special will make you want to put your feet up, slap some mud on your face and make a cup of herbal tea – so if you have yet to wrap up the work for the day, perhaps get that out of the way first.

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Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway Few places in the world boast quite as aweinspiring nature and sceneries as Norway. With stunning fjords, steep cliffs shooting out of the ocean and unspoiled beaches, it is the perfect place for a nature-themed holiday, not least if you wish to go hunting for the northern lights. We list the best destinations to visit, places to stay and activities not to miss.

DESIGN 12 Straight from the Catwalks Anyone who likes fashion and design will be a fan of late summer and early autumn, as that is when the design weeks and fashion weeks grace us with their aesthetic presence. This month’s design section brings a report from the Copenhagen and Stockholm Fashion Weeks, helping you to stay one step ahead the next time you hit the high street.

75 Autumn and Winter Experiences in Finland Finland offers all the deep forests and pristine lakes of its neighbouring countries, topped up with an element of mystery. Boasting unique geology and mystical folklore, this is the place to go for a stunning winter holiday with an opportunity to enjoy some great stories, peaceful retreats and, naturally, a traditional sauna.

SPECIAL FEATURES

BUSINESS

24 Academic and Cultural Wonders Parents searching for the best school for their young kids will enjoy this month’s feature on two immensely popular education giants in Denmark.

The rest of us can have our stomachs, rather than our minds, intrigued by Aalborg’s Italian restaurant La Locanda. While in Stockholm, the Royal Armoury displays an unusual but beautiful exhibition of historical fashion made entirely from paper.

SPECIAL THEMES 32

The Best Spas in Sweden Sweden is not just known for great design and award-winning chefs; it also has a type of massage named after it. This month, we feature Sweden’s very best spas, from close-to-nature havens to forward-thinking entertainment spa resorts and wellness hubs inspired by eastern philosophy. But

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Remembering Annika Goodwille It was with shock and great sadness we received the news that former Scan Magazine business columnist Annika Goodwille has passed away. This month, we remember the inspiring businesswoman with a tribute from Beatrice Bondy-Engström, chairman of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce to the UK, republished with permission.

CULTURE 108 Finding a Groove If you like a good groove, read our interview with new Danish two man group Black Dylan, whose retro soul is spreading across Europe, or consult ever-hip music columnist Scandipop or our culture calendar to find out what is hot and where to go this month.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 6 92 98 106

Fashion Diary | 10 We Love This | 87 Conference of the Month | 88 Hotels of the Month Family Hotel of the Month | 94 Inn of the Month | 95 Restaurants of the Month Brewery of the Month | 99 Attractions of the Month | 102 Experience of the Month Activity of the Month | 107 Humour

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 3

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, I’ve said on more than one occasion that this month’s cover star, Astrid S, is a breath of fresh air. She really is. I felt refreshed for days after speaking to her. She comes across as fearless without being arrogant, confident yet incredibly grateful, seemingly unfazed by the drama and politics of the music industry. And that is before you even begin to listen to her music, which is pure and catchy with a touch of that unmistakable Scandinavian magic.

Feeling refreshed is what this issue of Scan Magazine is all about, whether that comes most easily to you after a stroll through deep woods on the search for mushrooms, a zip down one of northern Europe’s best ski slopes or a full-body spa treatment followed by a glass of Champagne by the poolside. A dose of Scandinavian magic is guaranteed in any case.

on and look at those images. Who could blame me? From pindrop silence to super-chilled spa socialising, this Scandinavian magic will make you glow.

In Norway and Finland, we found autumn and winter experiences for the keen adventurer as well as the culture vulture and mindfulness geek. Whether you get off on extreme, stunning natural sceneries or fascinating mythology, Scandinavia will top it off with hearty food and a warm welcome. And if none of the above is your cup of tea, fast-forward to this month’s fascinating first: a phallological museum. Yes, that is a museum of close to 300 penises and penile parts. How is that for a breath of fresh air?

Linnea Dunne, Editor

Our search for the very best spas in Sweden took us north and south, to cities and remote country estates, to new and flashy architecture as well as old monasteries. Whether you like your spa experience inspired by eastern philosophy or scaled back to the simplicity of a traditional, Swedish massage, you will find a suitable spa in this special. If you hear rumours that this issue was edited in the bath with a facemask on – well, read

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Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary…

With the summer gone and the darker season upon us, there is no better way to brighten up your life than with prints and patterns. Fashionable prints are a foolproof way to add a statement element to your outfit. Will you go timeless in plaid, humble in pinstripe or vintage in leopard?

By Charlotte van Hek | Press photos

Who said that floral prints are just for women? Perhaps the most needed staple in a man’s wardrobe, this shirt is for the man with a keen sense of his own personal style. The excellent fit and quality means that you do not need much else to be the best-dressed guest.

SELECTED HOMME shirt, £50 www.selected.com

There is no better way to amplify your melancholic autumn mood than with this print pullover in wool blend with seasonal floral embroidery. Inspired by old Swedish craftsmanship and the moody Scandinavian winters, the colours of pressed flowers give the folkinspired print a modern, contemporary feel.

Tiger of Sweden jumper, £269 www.tigerofsweden.com

Wearing print on your legs allows you to make a real fashion statement and switch the focal point of your outfit to your bottom half for once. For a stylish approach, make sure to combine with items of a more restrained nature for that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ look.

Samsøe & Samsøe trousers, round up to £140 www.samsoe.com

What do classic, carry-over tennis shoes usually lack?

A banana print, naturally. This calf leather pair from Acne Studios gives a humorous twist to an all-time favourite and will spice up any dark autumn look.

Acne Studios sneakers, £330 www.acnestudios.com

6 | Issue 92 | September 2016

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Sunglasses are not just for summer as those low-lying autumn sun rays can be tricky to avoid.

Whether dressed in all black or shining in a colourful combination, this timeless pair with a subtle vintage touch will complete any outfit.

Monokel sunglasses, approx. £116 www.monokel-eyewear.com

Culottes are a sassy alternative to dresses. This fashionable pair in a dark deep-blue colour with light pinstripes will make your ankles the stars of the show. The elastic back of the waist makes this an extra comfy winner. Style with a timeless white T-shirt and an edgy leather jacket for a sophisticated and trendy look. mbyM culottes, approx. £78 www.mbym-shop.com

We all need a break from heels sometimes. These low-top sneakers ensure that you do not have to compromise on style when opting for comfort. Make sure to roll up your trousers to show off these lean black and white beauties.

Cheap Monday sneakers, £55 www.cheapmonday.com

A print dress is the perfect solution for every occasion. This light and silky dress guarantees a smooth transition between the seasons. Wear it to work with stylish black boots or combine it with a timeless leather jacket to an outdoor autumn party.

SELECTED FEMME print dress, £135 www.selected.com

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 7

Scan Magazine | Design | Street Style

Nordic Humans of London Scan Magazine’s brilliant Sanna Halmekoski has once again hit the streets of London to find out what the Scandinavian fashion fanatics are wearing. Cool, sleek and full of statements, this is a little piece of Scandiland in the United Kingdom.

Text and photos by Sanna Halmekoski | www.nordichumans.com

Heidi Kilpeläinen Finnish visual artist, performer, recording artist and designer

Lina Peterson Swedish mixed-media jeweller

(www.heidikilpelainen.com)

“I like to wear fun, bold items that are made out of nice materials. My jewellery designs are mixed-media, colourful and feel nice to touch. My shoes are by Nike, socks and jacket by COS, jeans by Topshop, and the jewellery is my own design.”

(www.linapeterson.com)

“My style is contemporary. Today I am wearing shoes by The Bear and a kaftan and clutch bag from my own HK119 Imaginature Collection. The things I miss most from Finland are the saunas and lakes.”

Heidi Kilpeläinen

Lina Peterson

Helgi Ingvarsson Icelandic composer and conductor (www.helgiingvarsson.com)

Helgi Ingvarsson

8 | Issue 92 | September 2016

“For my work I have to stand in front of a lot of people, and my style reflects that. It is respectable but casual, because I don’t like suits or ties. My shoes are Converse All Star, my jacket is from H&M and my shirt is from Topman.”

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Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this…

Nature is at its prettiest during autumn. Yellow leaves, cosy evenings and pink skies make you forget the shorter days and appreciate the longer nights. Combining in-house flora with earthy colours and natural materials such as wood, stone and metals will bring the beauty of Mother Nature inside and really prepare you for the dark but cosy days.

By Charlotte van Hek | Press photos

Feel like heading outdoors? This nice little mobile fireplace from Norm Architects for Menu is the perfect party mood setter and up for going pretty much anywhere (a steady and fireproof foundation provided!).

Take it to the beach, your terrace, the garden or a friend’s BBQ party and fill it up with firewood – good times guaranteed.

Norm Architects Menu fire basket, £140 www.skandium.com

Nothing says cosy more than a rocking chair. This beauty has a steel frame with rattan and rockers made of ash, creating a modern interpretation of your grandmother’s favourite piece of furniture. With its luxurious feel and natural look, it is easy to get rocking in this one!

IKEA rocking chair, £145 www.ikea.com

You can never have too much storage space, especially when it comes in the form of these Scandinavian-style baskets from Danish brand Bloomingville.

Both multifunctional and stylish, the baskets are roomy enough to provide storage for the bedroom, living room, bathroom or workspace. The baskets are made from raffia, a 100 per cent natural material obtained from the raffia palm tree in Madagascar.

Bloomingville baskets, set of two, £119 www.amara.com

Love gardens, but lacking green fingers? Fear not! Designer duo Atelier 2+ have created a greenhouse that is small enough for indoor use, yet large enough to house a miniature garden. Made from lacquered solid ash timber with panes of toughened glass and a planting tray made of galvanised metal, the Greenhouse will literally take nature inside.

Atelier 2+ Greenhouse, £547 www.designhousestockholm.com This deep-green blanket is woven using 100 per cent pure Scandinavian wool, presenting a stylish and sophisticated diamond weave design. Its wonderful silvery quality is thanks to the environment where the sheep are reared. Combining a rich shade of green with a neutral grey, this warm and inviting blanket is perfect for staying warm during cold autumn nights.

Gotland wool blanket, £55 www.urbanara.co.uk

10 | Issue 92 | September 2016

AUTUMN|WINTER 2016|2017 New arrivals!

SHARING OUR PASSION www.chamois.se

Patti Smith | Adonis

Meg Rosoff | Herta Müller Sofi Oksanen | Kim Thúy Matt Haig | Meg Wolitzer

September 22–25 • www.goteborg-bookfair.com

Scan Magazine | Design | The Scandinavian Fashion Weeks

Cool summer knits from Lala Berlin. Photo: Copenhagen Fashion Week

Straight from the Scandinavian catwalks Get ready for Spring/Summer 2017. Yes, it is already time to start thinking about what to wear next season, as Scandinavian designers presented their summer collections in August. Here are some of the top trends and designers to look out for.

By Beatrice Trodden

COPENHAGEN FASHION WEEK There was a great vibe in the city as Copenhagen Fashion Week kicked off.

As has become routine, street style photographers waited to snap that all-important photo of Scandinavia’s best dressed as they arrived for the shows. Designers presented their SS17 collections in locations ranging from the cool, gritty meatpacking district to official buildings such as the old stock exchange and a romantic presentation in a beautiful garden.

As for trends favoured by the Danish designers, we spotted plenty of neutral 12 | Issue 92 | September 2016

hues punctuated by shades of green, yellow, pink and light blue. Scandi minimalist lovers, meanwhile, will find their dreams fulfilled – yet the Danes are equally excellent at mixing in that cool urban vibe and, this season, trends are leaning towards ‘90s nostalgia with sporty drawstring elements, baggy trousers, popper details and plastic buckle belts.

Utilitarian influences also infused many of the collections in everything from colour schemes to materials.

The heritage brand stays strong One of the stand-out collections came courtesy of an old name in Danish fashion:

Fonnesbech. Classic and elegant, but with a very modern touch, they could easily stand up to contemporary minimalist greats such as French fashion house Céline. The clean cuts and colour scheme were elevated by utilitarian touches like d-ring buckles, straps and trench coat-inspired pieces. Punctuating the muted tones were pops of bright red and blue, creating the perfect eye-catching statement in a minimalist context.

Welcoming a newcomer Another brand that caught the media’s attention in all the right ways was German Lala Berlin. They moved their catwalk show to Copenhagen a few seasons ago and have blended in perfectly with the local aesthetic. Their look is cool and feminine: the prints were desirable, the silhouettes relaxed and unexpected. A special shout out goes to the summer knits in all the right green, blue and yellow shades.

Scan Magazine | Design | The Scandinavian Fashion Weeks

STOCKHOLM FASHION WEEK

Unexpected elegance

This season was marked by change at Stockholm Fashion Week. Many big names such as ALTEWAISAOME and Filippa K were noticeably absent from the schedule, and instead some new designers got time to shine.

Nellie Kamras’ label, STAND, is quickly becoming a must-see at Stockholm Fashion Week. Her leather and suede designs are exquisitely created, and elegant dresses with soft ruffles brought a romantic touch to a fabric most commonly used in hard, cool contexts.

There were of course also plenty of tougher pieces, along with playful ones, proving that anything can be done with leather – at least when Kamras’ expert touch is involved.

In contrast to their Danish neighbours, the Swedes worked around three fixed show spaces. The traditional hub at Berns was supplemented with two other main venues: Stockholms Auktionsverk and the so-called Black Box, ensuring that the week’s events were integrated into a larger part of the city.

Much like the Danish designers, bright elements of yellow, green, red and light blue permeated a neutral colour scheme. Two distinctive trends on the Stockholm runways were pleats and leather – often head to toe. According to the Swedes, soft billowy fabrics with fine pleats as well as leather in everything from brown to black or pink will be daily staples come next season.

Swedish couture with a French touch He may have sent the fewest models down the runway, but Fadi el Khoury’s couture collection created a huge impact regardless. Trouser looks had clean, sharp cuts and the gowns were real showstoppers with delicate, sheer fabrics, trains and appliqué detailing.

These pieces would not look out of place at the Academy Awards, and it is no coincidence that Swedish-born El Khoury honed his skills at French design houses such as Christian Dior and Lanvin.

Top left: Fonnesbech creates perfect minimalism with a high-end feel. Photo: Copenhagen Fashion Week. Left: Soft frills give STAND’s leather pieces a delicate, romantic touch. Photo: Mathias Nordgren. Middle and right: Fadi el Khoury proves that Scandinavians can do couture. Photos: Mathias Nordgren

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 13

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | SCANPAN

The secret to SCANPAN’s success is hidden in Ryomgaard, Denmark, where all of SCANPAN’s products are manufactured using traditional craftsmanship combined with modern technology and innovation.

The secret behind the perfect pan Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the Danish cookware manufacturer SCANPAN has become known globally for its premium products. The exceptional quality that has elevated the SCANPAN brand to this position requires a special kind of craft, countless years of experience, and highly technical expertise. Scan Magazine took a closer look at the family-owned company’s secret to perfection.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: SCANPAN

The production site in Ryomgaard, Jutland, where all SCANPAN’s aluminium products are cast is a rather special place. To live up to the requirements of both private and professional cooks, every single SCANPAN product is innovative and extremely durable. As such, one might expect a highly specialised and automated production site and, to some extent, Ryomgaard, which has been developing and improving its production methods for six decades, is just that.

But despite the modern technologies, pans and pots are still cast by hand with traditional production methods.

Mads Bondesen, production manager at SCANPAN, explains. “Our craftsmen have 14 | Issue 92 | September 2016

their hands on the product all the way from the liquid aluminium to the finished cookware. This way we ensure a constant quality control throughout the process, and our customers are guaranteed the same high quality and standard every time they buy a SCANPAN product.”

Quality control Many of SCANPAN’s foundry workers have been with the company for more than 20 years and hence have invaluable experience, intuition and knowhow when it comes to production methods and quality control. New foundry workers go through a three-month training programme to build up experience and

knowledge before they are assigned a workstation in the production line. “Our proficient workers’ understanding of the whole process of producing quality cookware like SCANPAN’s is not just useful in their everyday work but also in the training of new foundry workers. The experienced workers train the newcomers and in that way we’ve ensured that all our products have had the same high quality throughout, and that faulty products are quickly discovered and rejected,” says Bondesen.

Eight sets of hands Every SCANPAN aluminium product goes through eight sets of hands before it is packed and sent off to a store or a customer. At every workstation a worker checks the product before it is passed on to the next step of the production.

The minutely controlled process starts when the liquid aluminium is manually poured into a cast at approximately 600 degrees Celsius. With an enormous

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | SCANPAN

pressure of 250 tonnes, the aluminium is then shaped into a crude version of the product it is destined to be turned into.

The aluminium used is environmentally sustainable in that it originates from 100 per cent recycled materials from, for instance, used aluminium cans. During the next step, the product is burnished and sandblasted. Subsequently, the surface of the cookware is hardened by a titanium coating, which is sprayed on to the surface at high temperatures, creating a durable and protective layer. SCANPAN’s non-stick coating is now ready to be created, melded with the titanium and hardened in an oven designated for the purpose. The hardening takes about one hour at

approximately 400 degrees Celsius and, at the end, the surface is hard enough to withstand the use of metal utensils.

Once again, the environment has been taken into consideration as the product is 100 per cent free from PFOA and PFOS. After this, the base of the cookware is machined and concaved to prepare it for the high temperatures of the stove.

Finally, the pot or pan is equipped with a robust handle and, after a final quality check, the product is packed in recycled materials and prepared for sale.

The secret All in all, a look at SCANPAN’s production shows that there is one secret behind its consistent quality: high-tech production

methods combined with traditional craftsmanship, experience, intuition and repeated quality checks. Bondesen rounds off: “However innovative and state-of-the-art a production site is, there is no way a completely automated production can assimilate the handeye coordination and critical reflection essential to every step in our production – or the proud traditions of craftsmanship reflected in our finished products.”

Below: The family-owned Danish cookware manufacturer SCANPAN has become world-known for its high-quality products.

For more information please visit: www.scanpan.dk

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 15

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Barberians

Left: 26-year-old Martin Mollerup is the man behind Barberians, a successful new Danish skincare brand for men. Top right: With a full range of nature-based stylish products and shaving gear, Barberians is bringing back the forgotten art of nurturing a beard – and the skin underneath.

How to tame your inner barbarian As any visitor to Copenhagen will know, recent years have seen a noticeable rise in the popularity of the wild-man, or hipster, beard. This new trend has also brought about a renewed focus on the old-fashioned art of shaving, grooming and facial care for men in general. Headed up by the 26-year-old Copenhagener Martin Mollerup, the nature-based face care brand Barberians is leading the way with products that focus on the pleasure of using high-quality beard, skin and scent products.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Barberians

Over the years, beards have served many different purposes for men. At the dawn of times, the main function of a beard was to keep you warm while, later on, Vikings, or barbarians, grew massive beards to intimidate the enemy. Today the beard is a symbol of masculinity, used to express fashion sensibility and status.

But keeping a beard and nursing your skin, be it a full Viking do, a small stylish moustache or a cleanly shaven chin, is an art form that has been neglected in Denmark for many years, says founder of Barberians, Martin Mollerup: “We are the first in Scandinavia with an original full-range shaving and grooming brand, including gear, grooming, hair and 16 | Issue 92 | September 2016

fragrance. Our team of developers are experimenting left, right and centre, and rediscovering some of the many products that haven’t been produced for decades in Denmark. It’s the meeting of the barbarian and the man of today.”

The idea behind Barberians arose when Mollerup was studying in California, where the American shaving culture has seen a massive revival. Being an ingrained Copenhagener, Mollerup was adamant that all Barberians’ products had to originate in Copenhagen. Besides, all products are based on organic and natural ingredients, and tools are made in a stylish Scandinavian design while

elegantly adhering to the traditional.

But that does not mean that the fellow ‘barberians’ will have to spend hours in front of the mirror.

“Barberians is about more than a beard; we want to make it masculine to take care of yourself. We want to make it an enjoyable experience to get ready in the morning or for a night out, do your hair, moisturise and put on a personal fragrance. Of course, many might think that this is something that will take hours, but that’s not the case. It’s just a question of making it a part of your lifestyle, and in reality it only takes a couple of minutes more than when you use regular products, and your body and soul – not to mention your partner – will appreciate it very much,” Mollerup rounds off.

For more information please visit: www.barberianscph.dk

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | living mart cph

Above: With around 50 shop-in-shop sales modules, living mart cph enables wholesale customers to trade quality design, applied arts and delicacies in one place.

Interior design the easy way As the first of its kind in northern Europe, living mart cph enables purchasers to buy interior design from a wide selection of suppliers online. The new concept, which was launched in Denmark earlier this year, not only makes life easier for small shop owners but also reduces the need for large stock and the connected financial risk.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: living mart cph

Danes absolutely love interior design, and the national infatuation is reflected in an abundance of deliciously stocked small design boutiques as well as striking hotel and restaurant decorations. But maintaining a diverse, original and representative display can be hard for owners and managers of small businesses, who often struggle to find the time to visit showrooms outside opening hours. Another issue is the lack of space and resources to buy large quantities, which are often obligatory when purchasing directly from manufacturers. living mart cph has dealt with all of these problems with an innovative online and on-ground professional market platform, gathering interior design and arts and crafts

products from more than 45 brands.

Founder of the wholesale business, Brian Mollerup, explains: “Our clients – hotels, restaurants and interior design shops – can choose freely from products from around 50 different dealers from all over Europe. It’s all gathered into one platform, they can buy cash and carry from our 3,000-square-metre showroom in Taastrup or directly online, but all the products are sold by us.”

The success of the system is based on a sophisticated design, which automatically notifies the individual sales partner when they have to supply more stock for living mart cph. Besides, the online platform allows buyers to shop whenever and for whatever they want. “Our customers can

choose whether they want to come here to view and pick up the products or if they want to shop online, where they can shop 24/7. That’s what’s so brilliant about the concept: they can shop when and what they want, they don’t have to buy more than one item at a time, and they only have to deal with one platform and one bill for their accounts,” Mollerup rounds off.

Brian Mollerup is the man behind the 3,000-squaremetre marketplace, which is accompanied by a 24/7 web shop.

For more information please visit: www.livingmartcph.dk

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 17

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Arxus of Sweden

The wellingtons are made to last and are up for any challenge.

Handmade wellingtons for hunting and outdoor life Have you been looking for wellingtons to meet the challenge of hunting, especially in a harsh climate? Or are you an outdoor type or a forestry professional? Arxus of Sweden combines long experience and an eye for detail with constant innovation to provide just the wellington you need.

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Arxus of Sweden

Did you think all wellingtons are the same? Think again. Arxus of Sweden took its starting point in Nordic nature and the anatomy of the foot to make high-quality boots fit for a full day in the forest. The boots are especially suited to hunters or professionals in the forest industry, with several different models to choose from.

Magnus Apler is the CEO, owner and product developer. He has worked in the industry since 1985 and in 2007, after many years working with a major French brand, he decided to launch Arxus of Sweden. “We wanted designs better 18 | Issue 92 | September 2016

adapted to Nordic nature – stable and sturdy wellingtons that you could walk in for a whole day without being tired in your feet, legs and back,” says Apler, owner and CEO at Arxus of Sweden.

The design process takes place at the head office in Brämhult, a small village one hour east of Gothenburg on the Swedish west coast.

Details make all the difference The wellingtons stand out in many aspects: they are handmade from 100 per cent natural rubber and every little detail

is fitted on the boot by hand. The layers of the boot are thicker than usual, at least two millimetres in the outer layer. It covers the entire foot and leg of the boot, in one piece of rubber. Another plus is the starting point in anatomy, perfect for slightly wider feet with a higher instep, or comfortable walking in general.

“The basic Primo is our bestseller in Sweden and has the same technical details as our other boots, but with only a thin polyester and cotton lining. Many professionals work in them on a daily basis. The feedback from people working long hours in the forest is that they feel less tired in the back and body generally when dawn comes,” Apler says.

Compared to a low-cost brand, where wellingtons are produced in high volumes, the number of steps in the

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Arxus of Sweden

Left: Primo Canvas is one of the latest additions to the range. Middle: Primo is the basic wellington and a bestseller in Sweden. Right: Primo Canvas is both practical and smart. Bottom left: Magnus Apler, CEO and founder of Arxus of Sweden. Bottom right: The wellingtons are inspired by the Swedish wilderness.

assembly process is stunning. Apler explains that where a regular wellington might require as little as 18 actions during the assembly phase, the simplest boot from Arxus has over 80. No detail is too small; the wellingtons have carefully thought-out features including an inner hard sole combined with a polyester shank for maximum stability and a unique x-patterned sole for better foothold.

Functionality in focus Although people are fond of the design, functionality is the focal point at Arxus of Sweden. The boots are adapted for different types of hunting, for example with hunting dogs, which requires you to be extra quiet. “I was training to become a professional hunter, but moved to the design industry because it was more fun to develop the boots I was missing myself.

But I have done various types of hunting my whole life, so I have a good foundation.

It would be hard to do this job as a nonhunter – it would be hard to get things right,” says Apler.

With just a few employees at the headquarters in Brämhult, the CEO is highly involved in the entire process from idea to finished wellington. “I visit the factory every year to oversee the production. I am responsible for the quality and we have spent many hours making sure that everyone in the factory has the same way of looking at it,” he says.

Constant innovation Coming up with new models is rarely a nine-to-five job, and Apler admits to often thinking of new ideas and innovations when he is out in the forest himself. “You

become part of the product every day. It is in your head 24/7 and you try to find new angles and ways to improve things even more,” he says.

One of the latest additions is Primo Canvas, a boot where canvas covers the bootleg. The main benefit is that you can walk more quietly, thanks to the cotton canvas. But it is also a fashionconscious choice. “The combination of a wellington and canvas makes it more than just a wellington,” says Apler. “It is an increasingly popular product, because it looks so smart! The cotton canvas fades like a pair of jeans and gets a nice patina.”

For more information please visit: www.arxus.se

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 19

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Astrid S

Photo: Stian Andersen

20 | Issue 92 | September 2016

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Astrid S

Astrid S – Norway’s new pop noir sensation With the cool confidence of a stage veteran and the pure voice of a pop music producer’s dreams, she wowed Norwegian audiences only months after buying a guitar and went on to top the charts shortly after. Astrid S may be young, but she knows what she wants: to write songs she can really get behind and perform them to a global audience.

By Linnea Dunne

Astrid Smeplass’ first audition for Norway’s Idol back in 2013 was one of those unforgettable moments. With a guitar in her hand and an unassuming expression on her face, she walked in, sat down and gave the jury her very own rendition of her then favourite band Keane’s Somewhere Only We Know, and the jury members’ faces went from confused to curious to stunned. By her second audition, where she performed Dolly Parton’s Jolene, the air was already charged with expectation.

Three years on, Astrid S talks with the same chirpy innocence but performs on stage like a seasoned pro. With studio videos that paint her as artistically and confidently cool as fellow Scandinavian songstress Lykke Li and singles providing the background music in the hippest fashion boutiques throughout Europe, she certainly deserves the monikers ‘Norway’s next great pop export’ and ‘Spotify Nordic Spotlight Artist for 2016’.

‘This is what I’m born to do’ “I kind of quit music when I was 12 or 13,” says the Berkåk native, whose parents insisted on her taking piano and vocal lessons and joining a marching band.

“I hated it. People just tell you how to play and how to sing. But then I went to sports high school and got to know all

these people who went to study music, and I saw how much fun they were having, playing in bands and everything.

They introduced me to John Mayer and I decided to buy a guitar.” Just a few months later, she stepped into the Idol studio and performed to hundreds of thousands of Norwegian viewers. “It was only when I realised that I was able for it, that I could handle the pressure, that I knew: this is what I’m born to do.”

It was also on the Idol stage that Astrid S unveiled the first song she had ever composed herself, Shattered, to the public. It became an instant hit and the singer immediately went into the studio.

The finished track went straight to number one. “It wasn’t what I expected at all, but it was important for me to release it and perform it, and the fact that it was so well-received made me realise even more that I could do this and that I could really write songs,” she says.

It would be easy to write Astrid S off as young and naïve, her happy-go-lucky outlook almost simplistic, bordering on gullible. Yet despite her light-hearted tone there is a calm about her, a feet-onthe-ground sort of quality that suggests that she will not be led astray that easily.

On writing her own material, she adds: “I’m sure a lot of people think that other

people write my songs, but I hope that you can tell by the way I perform and sing my songs that they’re mine. When I see an artist live, it’s very clear to me if they’ve written the song themselves or not. I don’t really mind, but it’s important for me to write my own material so that I can really convey something and get the message across.”

The idea of the music industry as a tough and scary place for a 19-year-old woman from the remote parts of northern Norway is not one she is interested in entertaining. “It’s an extreme sport in a lot of ways, to put yourself out there in front of people and express your feelings.

It’s very uncomfortable, but in the best way possible,” she says. “But the most important thing for me is who I work with.

I surround myself with the best team I can get. They respect me as a young female artist and trust me to do my job, write the songs I want, and have my opinion – and that’s important to me. I care about them and they care about me.”

While she is full of superlatives when highlighting how lucky she has been with timing and meeting the right people, it is talking about the creative process and the art of performing that really gets her going. “Do I sound Norwegian? I don’t know, maybe my accent? You can probably tell by the melodies; songwriters and people in the industry will probably know, and I know I can always tell by the melodies when a songwriter is Scandinavian,” she ponders. “Melodies come very easily to me. I grew up listening to American artists, and because I didn’t understand Issue 92 | September 2016 | 21

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Astrid S

Photo: akam1k3

the lyrics the melodies became that bit more important. Scandinavians definitely have a melodical sensibility. When I heard Adele’s Send My Love (To Your New Lover) I knew Max Martin or some other Swedish songwriter was probably behind it.” When told that one of her recent singles has a bit of a Sami ring to it, she laughs. “What, Hurts So Good? I know, it wasn’t intentional though! It was just what felt good to sing. I’ve had people message me to ask what the lyrics are, because they wouldn’t be used to ‘hey na na na’. Other people will go ‘oooh’ and ‘aaaah’ for those parts, but I went with ‘hey na na na’.”

Debut EP and crossing the Atlantic Hurts So Good is the lead single from Astrid S’s self-titled debut EP, which was out earlier this year on Virgin EMI. Producers and songwriters such as Robert Habolin, who regularly works with Zara Larsson, have contributed to the creation of the five tracks which have been showered with praise. The EP has been dubbed “catchy as hell”, “outstanding”, and “10-out-of-10 stunner” and the singer rated as “one of the best new pop22 | Issue 92 | September 2016

stars in the world right now” and “a pop noir sensation”. While previous releases such as 2AM and Hyde helped her reach and surpass 100 million Spotify streams globally and a 5 x Platinum certification for the former, she has also been heard on Avicii’s Waiting For Love and in a duet with producer Matoma on super hit Running Out. More recently, Hurts So Good has been remixed by an impressive number of respected DJs, while Astrid S herself is back in the studio.

“I never have long breaks from the studio, which I think is important,” she says.

“Now, with some experience, I know what I like; I’m very open to everything, but if there’s something I don’t like I’ll remember that and I won’t waste time on it again. I’m always going to be the person who has to perform the songs and live with them for the rest of my life.”

And there will be plenty of performing indeed. 2016 has already been a big year for the young Norwegian, with a support slot on Troye Sivan’s European tour and her first headline gig in London, which sold out. Next month she crosses the Atlantic for a series of shows across the

States, again along with the Australian singer/songwriter. “His fans are crazy and amazing!” she says. But it does not end there. “The best thing is that I’m having my own first European tour this winter!”

She was a breath of fresh air when she stepped into that Idol studio in 2013, and she is still refreshingly open and fearless as her fan base grows and the music industry holds its breath to see what Norway’s most exciting new pop star will do next. In addition to a cool and catchy musical experience, it is a lesson in faith.

“I remember when I was ten or so and I looked at this Hannah Montana poster I had on my wall, and I was almost crying because I could never be like her,” she recalls. “It’s cool to look back and think that you can actually become an artist if you work hard enough. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or how old you are; you can be absolutely anything you want.”

For information on live dates and tickets and to listen to her music, please visit: www.astridsofficial.com

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Astrid S

Photo: Ole Marius Fossen

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 23

The best start in life at Randers Realskole Every parent wants their child to have the best start in life, naturally, and their schooling becomes a fundamental stepping stone in forming their future. Randers Realskole is known for having high academic standards, but the foundation of the school’s success is found in the focus on pupils not only as pupils but as whole individuals. The general wellbeing of the pupils ensures both academic and intellectual progress.

By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Randers Realskole

Randers Realskole is the largest private primary school in Denmark, teaching 1,200 pupils between the age of six and 16 every day. “The school was founded in 1869 and is full of traditions while at the same time being forward looking 24 | Issue 92 | September 2016

and modern,” says headmaster Hans Myhrmann.

A shared philosophy Randers Realskole has a long tradition of focusing on the optimal development

of the pupils – academically as well as personally and socially. The wellbeing of the pupils ensures that the school becomes a place in which they can learn, develop and thrive. “If a child looks forward to going to school every day because they know it’s nice, interesting and motivating, they are much more engaged and ready to learn,” Myhrmann explains. “What really matters is that the child develops throughout their schooling on an academic level, but also on a social and emotionally intellectual level. What they learn here at Randers Realskole is something they keep for the rest of their

Scan Magazine | Education Profile | Randers Realskole & ElitesportsCollege

lives, so we want to give them the best start they can get.”

From the first day to the final exam, this shared understanding that each child is at the school to thrive, be healthy and learn, means that the pupils, parents, teachers and administration all know what they have to do to achieve the common goal. By working together and having an open dialogue with each other, problems, praise and progress can be easily discussed and passed on.

Learning from others Every year, the school receives approximately 400 new pupils. These are both

first time pupils and students changing schools. There is, in particular, a large influx of pupils aged 13. However, these new pupils are not simply placed into existing classes; instead, new classes are created where the original students are mixed with the new ones.

“By mixing up the classes when new groups of pupils join the school we ensure a level playing field. It means that the children have to interact socially with new people every few years, which also gives them a chance to reinvent themselves, make new friends and learn how a wide range of people live and think.

We’ve found that it makes our pupils

very accommodating of new people, a skill which is essential for the future,” Myhrmann says.

An open dialogue When the aim is to provide the best possible learning environment, it is essential that there is an open dialogue between all the members of the school.

Randers Realskole is constantly looking to develop itself as well as its pupils, and feedback has become a vital part of this development.

“At parents’ evenings we’ve chosen to base the conversation on feedback forms that the pupil and teachers fill out about

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 25

Scan Magazine | Education Profile | Randers Realskole & ElitsportsCollege

each other and themselves, looking at everything from academic achievements to social interactions. That way, we’ve started a conversation about what’s working really well and what we need to work on. From there, we can make a plan for the future and know what the focus needs to be,” explains Myhrmann.

The teachers also work closely together, particularly in the younger years, to make sure that their pupils are getting as much out of the day as they possibly can.

By having two teachers in the classroom at the same time there is always a helping hand, and the teachers can learn from each other and develop the best strategies for teaching the pupils as individuals and as a group.

‘We care’ When the whole individual is in focus, there are many aspects to take care of.

One such thing is that pupils are healthy both physically and mentally. “It’s really important to us that we encourage a healthy lifestyle with good food and exercise, but also that we’re there when 26 | Issue 92 | September 2016

“

Success isn’t always measured by getting the highest mark, but also by how much you try. We value trying hard higher than anything else. It’s so impressive to see someone giving it their all and getting something back from it.

Headmaster Hans Myhrmann

”

Scan Magazine | Education Profile | Randers Realskole & ElitesportsCollege

a pupil experiences tough times, like if their parents are getting divorced,” says Myhrmann. “We have support groups and people ready to help when something happens, to make it as easy on the student as possible. When your parents get divorced or you might be experiencing mental health problems, the school can become a safe haven where you have someone impartial to talk to and help you through it all.”

Offering to make demands The attitude at Randers Realskole is to always give more and to always do your best. By offering to make demands, they are also providing the opportunity to develop as much as possible. To be able to do this, the school offers its support, encouragement and fantastic facilities including state-of-the-art IT facilities, a brand new music building and cuttingedge science classrooms, all of which help to encourage development and achieve goals.

Randers ElitesportsCollege is also one of these facilities, offered in cooperation with elite sport clubs in the city to, for example, handball and football players.

Here, students in the senior years who are exceptional at sport can practise their sport on the highest level in the best facilities and with the best trainers, whilst also maintaining their schooling to a high standard. Randers ElitesportsCollege has produced some of Denmark’s top talents in the past couple of years.

Achieving their full potential The pupils who graduate from Randers Realskole bring with them a fantastic education, a vast number of skills and a well-rounded sense of self. They have been given every opportunity to better themselves, develop and be enlightened by their surroundings and everyone has chosen to grasp this opportunity.

“100 per cent of our pupils go on to further education or go travelling before

continuing their education. Our success rate is incredibly high because we have a school where everyone gets behind the pupils and where the students thrive in school and are encouraged to achieve their full potential,” concludes Myhrmann.

RANDERS REALSKOLE: - Established in 1869.

- Denmark’s largest private school with 1,200 pupils.

- Education for the ages six to 16.

- Has its own ElitesportsCollege, which has produced top sporting talents.

- State-of-the-art science, music, IT and sporting facilities.

For more information, please visit: www.randersrealskole.dk

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 27

Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | La Locanda

Left: Italian Carlo Liberati arrived in Aalborg 25 years ago and never once regretted his move. Right: With its authentic Italian atmosphere and food, La Locanda has earned the hearts of locals and food critics alike.

An Italian in Aalborg With an authentic Italian kitchen and atmosphere, La Locanda in Aalborg has become Jutland’s most popular restaurant on TripAdvisor. The critically acclaimed restaurant is owned and run by the Italian chef Carlo Liberati.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Julia Cecilie Liberati

Italian Carlo Liberati left his home in the south of Rome 25 years ago to move to Jutland with his Danish wife. Despite splitting up with his wife, the 49-year-old has never regretted his decision to move to the north where he has made a name for himself running several restaurants, including the popular Il Mulino. Two years ago, he opened La Locanda, an authentic Italian restaurant loved by locals, tourists and professional food critics alike. “I think the best way to describe our kitchen is that it is as close to original Italian cuisine as you can possibly get – of course updated a bit to suit modern times. The same goes for the restaurant: we built it from nothing, in an old warehouse, but we’ve managed to create a place that has a feel of authenticity and originality,” 28 | Issue 92 | September 2016

says Liberati. His words are echoed by several food critics and guides, including the White Guide, which recommends the restaurant for its authentic Italian cuisine.

La Locanda is located in the cobblestoned courtyard of one the oldest houses in Aalborg, which means that visitors have the opportunity of having a delicious lunch or dinner in charming settings outside as well as inside. On the menu guests will find a selection of mouthwatering à la carte dishes as well as a number of smaller dishes put together in set three to nine-course menus. The restaurant’s authentic Italian set-up and high quality have made it a popular venue for business events as well as

summer tourists. “The way we make our food, our selection of Italian wines and our Italian-speaking waiters all add to the authenticity of the experience,” says Liberati.

Recently, Liberati also opened La Bottega, an adjoining deli selling and serving freshly baked bread, fresh pasta, special meats, coffee and ice cream. The deli is run by Liberati’s new wife, Lida Esfandiarnia, and is thriving as much as the restaurant. No wonder Liberati has no regrets when it comes to his move to the cold north. “When I split up with my ex-wife, I had to make a decision to stay or go back. I chose to stay up here and, when you look at how things are going, it was the right decision. I’m very happy to be an Italian in Aalborg.”

For more information, please visit: www.lalocanda.dk

Scan Magazine | Culture Feature | The Royal Armoury

A very royal story – made of paper Housed in the Royal Palace in Stockholm, the Royal Armoury boasts historical artefacts from the past 500 years, telling the story of the lives of kings and the aristocracy with the help of everything from weapons to fashion creations of lace, frills and rosettes – and now even paper.

A tourist from afar or a family doing the Swedish capital, at the Royal Armoury you will doubtlessly find a piece of history – and modern art – to amaze you.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Andreas von Einsiedel

“Our name is perhaps a little misleading,” says museum director Malin Grundberg.

“Yes, there’s lots of armour on display, but we also have old carriages and amazing clothes and accessories from parties, weddings and funerals.”

This autumn sees the museum exhibit new creations alongside the historic artefacts for the first time ever. Studying portraits of the respected Florentine Medici family, Belgian artist Isabelle de Borchgrave has created Renaissance clothes entirely out of paper, recreating the fashion of a time otherwise not very well preserved. “We don’t have a lot of items from the 1500s as clothes from this time were often passed on and worn out,” Grundberg explains. “Well,

we do have King Erik XIV’s coronation mantle from 1561, which is extraordinary even from a global perspective; but this exhibition allows us to present an era of royal fashion we’ve previously been unable to show.”

Renaissance fashion in paper – the Medici family outside the frame at the Royal Armoury marks the first time De Borchgrave’s celebrated work has ever been exhibited in the Nordics. “She makes the paper look just like the different materials: silk, velvet, lace – everything,” Grundberg enthuses. “We’re particularly delighted with the fact that she’s also created some custom accessories just for us, which we’ll exhibit alongside our own old lace collars, gloves and fans.”

For more information, please visit: www.livrustkammaren.se/en

Awe s o m e d e s i g n s fo r yo u r m i n i

SweetMini, you look awesome!

Scan Magazine | Education Profile | The International

During one or two years at The International, students live, learn and travel the world together. The experience gives them intercultural competence, academic excellence, personal development and friends for life.

Freedom to go global In Denmark, young students go to boarding school to learn more about themselves and meet new friends. At The International, the only 100 per cent English-speaking boarding school in the country, they also get an internationally recognised education developed by the University of Cambridge.

By Eirik Elvevold | Photos: Vedersø Idrætsefterskole

English is spoken from the get-go when new students arrive at The International’s brand new facilities in Vedersø. After saying goodbye to their parents, excited teenagers are welcomed – in English – into an international environment that will prepare them for a future in the globalised world.

The International is part of a long Danish tradition of boarding schools – or ’efterskoler’, as they are called in Denmark. Compared to state schools, efterskoler have more independence to shape their educational approach.

Because enlightenment for life is considered equally important as formal education, students are given substantial freedom in choosing their own subjects.

“Students can immerse themselves in football, dance, media or Danish 30 | Issue 92 | September 2016

language, as well as a whole range of elective subjects. You can lift weights, form a band or learn about accounting,” says Alex Mason, The International’s head of studies. Mason believes that freedom is key for young people to achieve personal development. “Freedom truly motivates these young adults and gives them a sense of responsibility. Rising to the challenge of choosing for yourself grows your confidence,” Mason argues.

A year at a Danish boarding school serves as a break from everyday life during which you can have fun, try new things and think about your future plans.

The International offers this experience combined with a first-class education programme in English, provided by the University of Cambridge. The internationally recognised Cambridge IGCSE exam certificate, equivalent to

Danish ninth and tenth grade, gives students from all over the world an early boost to their potentially global careers.

“The Cambridge IGCSE helps students stand out from the crowd. We teach them the skills necessary to succeed in a highly competitive global society,” Mason concludes.

THE INTERNATIONAL AT A GLANCE: - The only 100 per cent Englishspeaking boarding school in Denmark - Offers Cambridge University’s International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Students participate in three study trips: - A Worldwide Adventure in the United States, South Africa and Australia - A European Exchange in a European host family - A Tour of Denmark

For more information, please visit: www.theinternational-dk.com

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Swedish and international galleries presenting contemporary art from over 500 artists.

Buy on the spot, love forever. Free shuttle buses. affordableartfair.com/stockholm

S A lT SP N ia c e ST DE Sp E B WE E S TH IN e:

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Copperhill Mountainlodge.

Yasuragi.

Sankt Jorgen Park.

Slowing down and prune fingers Lately, I have become painfully aware of how precious time is – and how important it is to treat it with respect and care. Time just races on and it is up to each and every one of us to slow down and appreciate the fine moments in life. It does not have to be a grand adventure; sometimes it is good enough with just a little break from the everyday treadmill. Before you know it, that little break might turn into an unforgettable memory.

By Sara Hellgren, head of marketing and communications at Svenska Spahotell

I allowed myself exactly that a while ago. Me and my eight-year-old son enjoyed a 24-hour getaway at one of Sweden’s finest spa hotels: no iPad, no video games – just great conversations; a breakfast buffet with freshly squeezed juices and crispy waffles, followed by a bath in the hot tub until we got prune 32 | Issue 92 | September 2016

fingers; a soothing spa treatment for children with a lovely massage. Who said children cannot be quiet at a spa? There was total attentive silence – from a boy who constantly talks. A candle-lit dinner for two with hamburgers on the menu.

A slow evening stroll along the beach promenade and then a plate of exotic

fruit and watching TV in bed, until way past bedtime.

He frequently asks me when we will do it again. Such an easy thing to do – just an overnight trip an hour or two away from home. But for both of us it was 24 extremely valuable hours. I realise that I am not the only one who will forever treasure this memory and look back on it with a smile.

For more information, please visit: www.svenskaspahotell.se

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

At one with nature in Sweden Autumn is coming and it is a good time to get cosy and treat yourself to some pampering. Swedish spa traditions have been around for about 300 years, and you can find spas that focus on the healing powers of spring water, spas where you enjoy the heat in a sauna before plunging into ice cold water, and spas in the far north where you can relax under the midnight sun or northern lights.

By Anna Hjerdin, communications manager at Visit Sweden | Photos: Tuukka Ervasti

You have probably heard of a Swedish massage, credited to a Swede but developed by a Dutchman. It is possibly one of the most well-known massage treatments in the world. In Sweden, the home of the Swedish massage, it is simply known as a ‘classic massage’ and is a part of the Swedish concept of wellness.

Part of the Swedish spa tradition is a oneness with nature and concern for the natural environment. Even the spas in the middle of the Swedish cities bring elements of nature to the experience.

Try the outdoor glass-bottomed pool at Upper House for spectacular views of Gothenburg. There are spa hotels on the cliffs of the Swedish west coast, and you

can enjoy the vibrant colours that mark autumn at Selma Spa overlooking the Fryken valley near Sunne further north. In 2015, Salt Creek Spa at Ystad Saltsjöbad in the picturesque village of Ystad in Skåne, southern Sweden, was voted Sweden’s best spa at the Swedish Spa Awards.

Though the Swedish spa tradition has changed over the years, the basic principles have remained the same: physical and mental wellbeing and oneness with nature.

For more information, please visit: www.visitsweden.com

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 33

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

Pure enjoyment, west coast sunshine, and business as unusual Putting music, pleasure, and the desire for renewal first, Hotel Tylösand presents a new kind of spa experience. Forget all about rules and dolphin music. This is where relaxation and wellbeing meet entertainment, in west coast style.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: pamela.se

“As an entertainment hotel, why would we be telling our spa guests to be quiet?

It makes no sense,” says Elisabeth Haglund, CEO at Hotel Tylösand. “Our spa is a place to really relax, but we also want our guests to enjoy themselves. We do spa our own way.” Anyone who has heard the music of Gyllene Tider, the Swedish band with singer Per Gessle, one half of Roxette and also one of two owners of the hotel, knows that it is indeed possible to combine complete relaxation with a great time – and perhaps that is what the Swedish west coast does best. For those who have yet to familiarise themselves with the songs of the Swedish band, they make one of the options when selecting 34 | Issue 92 | September 2016

background music for a massage or another treatment. “You don’t have to listen to dolphins or whale music!” promises Haglund.

Sea, art and quality food Located on the Tylösand headland with uninterrupted views of the sea, Hotel Tylösand offers somewhat of a paradise getaway. Expect beautiful beaches, swimming opportunities in both the sea and a number of pools and Jacuzzis, live music and other entertainment on the beach as well as in the venue, and a generally welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. With around 450 pieces of art, including plenty of photography adorning the walls of the

hotel, it is Sweden’s largest gallery; and the design and décor have been carefully considered throughout in order to make everything flow well and interact with the stunning scenery in a positive way.

“When you walk through the doors, you are greeted by a colour scheme and floral arrangements that will run as a theme throughout the entire hotel, and there’s just that feeling of this being a place where you can really enjoy yourself,” says Haglund. “People often say that it’s hard to put your finger on it but that we’re just not an ordinary hotel. And we’re not: we’re a spa and entertainment hotel with a consistent four-star quality in everything we do.”

Foodies are spoilt for choice with two restaurants that are open all year round and a total of four during the summer. The hotel has its own bakery and the breakfast pulls

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

out all the stops with a member of staff on custom omelette duty at all times. Still, the high quality and attention to detail is never compromised. “We are able to offer a broad selection simply because we are so big,” Haglund explains. “We have 230 rooms and 30 conference rooms. Each restaurant is its own unit and the chefs at the sushi and seafood bar are specialised in sushi and seafood and do nothing else. There’s a very conscious line running through everything we do.”

A spa with no rules This is why, last year, they started the process of reworking the hotel’s already hugely successful spa concept, dubbed Sweden’s Top Spa Resort twice since 2012. “We said, ‘if it ain’t broke, fix it!’,” the CEO laughs. “It’s very important for us to be clear with our guests, and you can’t invite people to an entertainment resort and tell them to be quiet. So there

are no rules at our spa. People can socialise and have a chat in the pool or grab a drink at the Mixology bar. You can take one of a wide range of exercise classes or spend some time on the treadmill looking out across the sea, and then head for the pool and watch a music documentary on our new big movie screen. Perhaps you’ll do some yoga in the sunset, enjoy a glass of Champagne and a footbath on the big terrace… If people have preconceptions about what a spa is, we probably don’t live up to them.”

While conference guests will find topnotch facilities, whether they require meeting rooms for four or a big auditorium, all guests benefit from a selection of spa and golf packages and a wide range of activities to choose from at the weekends, be it wine tastings or interesting talks. Moreover, the idyllic location is surprisingly close to civilisation, just

two hours from Kastrup Airport by train, halfway between Gothenburg and Malmö, and connected by direct flights from Stockholm every day.

“We’ve got a motto that goes, ‘always change a winning concept’,” says Haglund. “We’re doing things our way, and we like to think that we’re changing the spa segment in Sweden and beyond.

We’re letting pleasure and passion lead the way – and music, of course.” Gessle and his friends in Gyllene Tider sang about hearts on fire, making love to the sound of Buddy Holly, dancing, summer fun and, crucially, the Tylö Sun, and it seems as if he has now contributed to a resort that embodies all of the above – with fun and relaxation at its heart.

For more information, please visit: www.tylosand.se

Elisabeth Höglund, CEO.

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 35

Photo: Gösta Fries

In harmony with nature Copperhill Mountain Lodge sits far up on the alp, close to unharmed nature and with nothing but spectacular views that bring an irresistible sense of freedom.

By Malin Norman

The hotel is located in northern Europe’s biggest ski resort, Åre, and on top of what a hundred years ago was a copper mine.

“What makes it so special is the closeness to nature. You can even see reindeer on the mountain,” says marketing manager Sara Ekdahl. With ski slopes on one side, wilderness on the other and scenic views of Åre village, lake and mountain, it makes an unforgettable impression.

The striking building stands out with its contemporary design developed by famous architect Peter Bohlin, the creator of Apple’s stores and the private mansion of Bill Gates. Here he has designed a modern-day structure with 36 | Issue 92 | September 2016

a stunning 30-metre copper wall in the entrance, and used raw materials such as pinewood and slate from the local area.

A true design hotel A member of Design Hotels, Copperhill promotes sustainable design while taking into consideration the heritage of the historic location. For the third year running, it has been named Best Ski Hotel in Sweden at the World Ski Awards and received numerous other awards by for example TripAdvisor. This is Bohlin’s only building in Scandinavia so far and, as Ekdahl explains, “we were incredibly lucky – he has created a modern design classic”.

Copperhill is a top-class full-service hotel with three restaurants, a popular lounge bar with live performances, a ski shop and kids’ club. For a truly luxurious experience, visitors can rent the exclusive 700-square-metre Villa with room for up to 16 people and perks such as a private chef. Unsurprisingly, it has been named Sweden’s Best Lodge.

New this year is restaurant Biblioteket (meaning ‘The Library’), located in what was previously the lobby’s library. With a view of Åreskutan Mountain and warm, snug décor, still with the many books of the old library on display, it is a muchappreciated spot to enjoy a meal after a long day.

Europe’s best spa The beautiful spa with lush pools, hot springs and panoramic views of the

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

mountain has been named Europe’s Best Spa at the European Hotel Design Awards. It is a peaceful oasis built with only natural materials, offering a new range of treatments with exclusive Elemis products. For those who want even more privacy, the spa includes a popular secluded area with its own Jacuzzi and sauna, and the possibility for those sought-after treatments.

Children are welcome at the spa at certain times, making it attractive for families as well. Copperhill even offers special spa treatments for the little ones.

“This is appreciated by the parents as they get the chance to enjoy the tranquil environment, and the kids tend to get really relaxed just by being here,” says Ekdahl. During school holidays, the hotel has special packages including fun-filled activities for children.

Healthy autumn packages This autumn, guests can also book one of the exclusive packages along the themes of health, fitness and yoga, featuring a

number of experts in the field. Popular collaborations include those with yoga instructor Elin Jensen, who has worked with Copperhill since 2011 and runs yoga courses throughout the year.

Emelie Forsberg is another partner and, according to Ekdahl, a “superstar” in trail running who has won numerous global championships, with courses selling out in a few days. Amongst other celebrated profiles are cross-country star Johanna Ojala, canoeist Åsa Eklund, cyclist Helena Enqvist and personal trainer Maria Lundberg. For those who prefer to train on their own, Copperhill organises hiking and running packages.

Over the past few years, Copperhill has seen a growing demand and now focuses on offering a mix of exercise and pleasure.

“Our combination of world-class design and architecture with muddy training shoes is quite special,” says recently appointed hotel director Eva Ottosson Rask. “Copperhill is ideal for those who like to end a challenging day of exercise with a relaxing spa treatment, a well-

Photo: Gösta Fries

Photo: Jonas Kullman

Cross-country skiing expert Johanna Ojala.

Photo: Linus Olsson

Photo: Jonas Kullman

prepared dinner and a spacious suite with a view of the mountains.”

For many visitors the main attraction, apart from the hotel itself, is the northern lights. But Åre also offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, ice rally, snowmobile, horse riding, and of course world-class skiing. Ekdahl also recommends a visit to Tännforsen’s waterfall and the chance to experience Sami culture and get up close with reindeer at the Sami camp Njarka. Åre is easily accessible for international travellers only 140 kilometres from Trondheim airport and, as of 11 December this year, easyJet will fly directly from London Gatwick to ÅreÖstersund airport. Guests can reach the hotel via bus, taxi, rental car or even with a short helicopter ride.

For more information, please visit: www.copperhill.se

Photo: Gösta Fries

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 37

Relax and recharge, Japanese style To stay at Yasuragi is to experience a bit of Japan. With traditional bathing rituals, tranquil treatments and fantastic cuisine, guests get the ideal opportunity to let go of everyday worries while taking in the Japanese culture.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Yasuragi

The Yasuragi spa hotel is located at Hasseludden, around 20 minutes east of central Stockholm and with stunning views of the archipelago. The building was designed by Japanese architect Yoji Kasajima in 1972 and used as a conference centre before its transformation into a Japanese-style hotel in 1997. Owner Petter Stordalen took over in 2006 and since then the hotel has been continuously updated, including an extension by White Arkitekter.

All of the hotel’s 191 guest rooms have a view of the Höggarn Bay and the sea approaching Stockholm. The rooms are inspired by Japan, with simple 38 | Issue 92 | September 2016

aesthetics in harmony with the beautiful surroundings, and the hotel corridors are designed to blend in with the sea and the forest.

Water and wellness Upon arrival, guests receive a yukata, a Japanese-style cotton robe, to wear during their stay and to keep as a memory.

According to marketing manager Florence Cardell, visitors tend to unwind as soon as they change into the robe. “We can see how our guests instantly loosen up, and many say that one day here feels like several days of rest. These days, everyone is logged on and under constant pressure, but the brain needs downtime in order

to cope. At Yasuragi, our guests have the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge.”

Yasuragi’s concept is all about inner harmony, based on Japanese traditions generally and water and wellness in particular. An important part of life in Japan, and so also at Yasuragi, is the bathing ritual. While seated on a small wooden stool, guests scrub and pour water over themselves. This is a form of peaceful purification, to let go of everyday worries. The spa also includes hot springs both inside and out in nature, a swimming pool, a sauna and a steam sauna, and different types of relaxing massages and treatments with products from Abloom and Elemis.

The two restaurants also take inspiration from Japan; Teppanyaki serves typical Japanese food, cooked at the table on a flat iron griddle, while Tokyo

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

offers an exciting mix of Japanese and Scandinavian cuisine. In the spa lounge guests can enjoy raw food, and in the Tokyo Lounge Bar they can try Sweden’s biggest assortment of sake, the Japanese rice wine.

Mindful visitors and staff The clientele has changed over the years, now with a broader age group and a mix of conferences and private guests. “Luxury has become more readily available. We have many returning guests, and they often come back for a different purpose.

For instance, they may have been here with work and then return with their partner or friends.”

Children are also welcome, with special activities and storytelling during the Yasuragi Kids summer weeks. The idea is to make room for peace and quiet but also play and laughter. “It’s amazing to see how the children come here and enjoy themselves. During those weeks this is a

free zone for the whole family to really enjoy time together without digital devices.”

Yasuragi invests in its many guests but also in its employees, most recently through a self-management course with mindfulness to increase emotional presence. “As coworkers, we need to be responsible for our own way of living,” says Cardell. “If we are to help our guests find peace, we need to find our own inner peace and learn how to lead healthy and fulfilling lives also outside work.”

Autumn treats and meetings This autumn, Yasuragi offers a few themed packages. The ikebana weekend is a chance to learn the art of arranging flowers, an essential part of Japanese culture. Judit Katkits is a certified teacher from the Ichiyo Ikebana School and will coach the participants in the beauty of flowers. For those looking to recharge, renowned yoga teacher Shay Peretz will host a whole day of yoga and

meditation. For the more active guests, Yasuragi is arranging a training weekend of activities for the body and mind with personal trainer and nutritionist Elisabet Pärsdotter Westman. In addition, there are a number of spa packages for daytime visits, evenings and weekends available.

Unsurprisingly, Yasuragi is incredibly popular also in the business world thanks to its combination of high-tech facilities and relaxation. The hotel has an impressive 24 meeting rooms for two to 400 people, inspired by Tokyo’s big city pulse as well as tranquil gardens, traditional theatres and the popular manga culture.

“When people meet in this environment, interesting things happen,” says Cardell.

Sessions and team-building activities are mixed with time for reflection, to give participants the chance to process the information. The spa even has a digitalfree zone, for the ultimate chance to log off and unwind.

For more information, please visit: www.yasuragi.se

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 39

Get pampered at Sweden’s glass art hotel Kosta Boda Art Hotel is not only an excellent hotel and award-winning spa, this is also a showroom for fantastic art by the designers at Kosta Boda glassworks. An explosion of colour and form awaits the guests, to stimulate the mind and the body.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Kosta Boda Art Hotel

Located in Kosta Boda with its almost 300-year-old history of glass blowing, it comes as no surprise that the town’s hotel also has something to do with glass. The glassworks was founded back in 1742 by Anders Koskull and Georg Bogislaus Staël von Holstein, two officers in Karl XII’s army. Today, Orrefors-Kosta Boda glassworks is one of Sweden’s most internationally known brands and the area is often referred to as the Kingdom of Crystal.

Kosta Boda Art Hotel opened in 2009, with New Wave Group as a stable long-term owner. The hotel can be described as a showroom for glass, and has proved to be 40 | Issue 92 | September 2016

can also be found throughout the hotel, including in the Glass Bar and the Art Lobby Bar, in the Linnéa Art Restaurant, and even displayed at the bottom of the swimming pool.

a successful and highly praised concept.

“Glass is the common theme at the hotel, with rooms individually decorated with glass art from our fantastic designers at Kosta Boda,” explains marketing manager Ulrica Olsson. “This is an exceptional environment and we are incredibly proud to carry on the tradition of the glassworks.”

Unsurprisingly, the hotel is very proud of its collaboration with the artists, who have all added their own characteristic expression and created a unique environment for the guests. The list of prominent designers includes Anna Ehrner, Göran Wärff, Ulrica HydmanVallien, Bertil Vallien, Kjell Engman, Åsa Jungnelius, and Ludvig Löfgren.

Unique glass art

All in all, the hotel showcases art for around 52 million SEK and everything is for sale, including artwork and furniture and even small details such as glass tumblers. “It’s easy for our guests to see how the glass and artwork can fit into their homes. And as they buy pieces, or

Seven of Sweden’s most famous designers from Kosta Boda glassworks, which is located just across the street, have contributed with glass art and textiles for the hotel’s 102 guest rooms, corridors and meeting facilities. They

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

perhaps because the designers want to include their artwork in exhibitions elsewhere, we replace them with new ones. This is a living showroom, constantly changing.”

Five-star spa A must-do at Kosta Boda Art Hotel is a visit to the five-star spa, which also shows the fantastic glass art in its pools and facilities. Guests can get pampered from head to toe with a range of treatments such as Art Glass Feeling and Art Glass Escape with warm glass used in the treatments and an exclusive glass gift to take home as a memory. Both treatments have been named Best Spa Treatment at the Spa Awards, winning silver in 2014 and gold in 2015.

Kosta Boda Art Hotel has received numerous awards for its design and service, for example TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence 2016. Amongst other prominent honours are Sweden’s Best Design Hotel by Hotel Specials and the Big Tourism Prize in 2012, which is given in particular for innovation, internationalisation, quality and sustainability in Swedish tourism.

White Guide and won the prestigious Werner award. This autumn, Dzemat will take part in the Swedish version of Masterchef, as broadcast on TV4.

The entrepreneurial spirit of Kosta Boda is evident in the hotel’s design, spa and innovative cuisine, but also in how the town has established itself as a destination.

In addition to the famous glassworks, visitors can also explore nearby Kosta Outlet with 20,000 square metres of fantastic shopping opportunities. Kosta is a true hub for stylish glass and design, with plenty of opportunities to get pampered from head to toe.

For more information, please visit: www.kostabodaarthotel.se

Edin Dzemat, gastronomic leader of Kosta Boda Art Hotel.

“We have had a fantastic journey so far,” says Olsson. “Our guests appreciate the individuality of the hotel and how we present the art. We have managed to put together a great mix of spa treatments, art and history from the area, and excellent cuisine.”

Brasserie by EDz New at Kosta Boda Art Hotel this autumn is restaurant Brasserie by EDz, which opens on 30 September. Gastronomic leader is Edin Dzemat, who is a talented chef in fine dining. The brasserie will have room for around 50 guests and an open wine cellar, and will focus on classic and new dishes with unexpected twists to provoke flavour sensations.

Dzemat has previous experience from some of the world’s best restaurants.

He has also been captain of the Swedish national team of chefs, which won silver in the World Championships in 2014, and has been named Rising Star by Issue 92 | September 2016 | 41

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

Fine old traditions at Åkerblads At Åkerblads Hotel & Spa, guests are welcomed by the family into a warm and cosy environment with crackling fires, individually designed rooms, world-class cuisine and a fabulous spa – an ideal spot to unwind and relax.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Rickard Ericsson

experience every time. Svedberg also talks about how staff are handpicked and have the ability to see what the guests need. “We work as a close team to keep that familiar feeling. Here you get a bit more than what you expect; you get what you really need.”

With heritage from the 15th century, Åkerblads is the oldest farmhouse in the small village of Tällberg in Dalarna, a region known for its beautiful surroundings and old craftsmanship traditions. The land has been in the family for 22 generations and family members are still present at the hotel every day, making sure that guests feel welcome.

Praised spa and cuisine

“Åkerblads is genuine,” says marketing manager Fredrik Svedberg. “It’s real and has soul, something you can’t put your finger on but guest will notice as soon as they arrive.” The Åkerblad family has focused on maintaining a homely atmosphere with the sound of crackling open fires, displays of old family treasures and coffee served out of a traditional copper pot.

Cherished for its warm atmosphere and traditions, Åkerblads is also praised for the high-quality cuisine and wine cellar.

The restaurant has been listed in the prestigious White Guide and awarded by wine tasting organisation Munskänkarna.

“We like using products from small local producers, such as cheese makers with a true passion for what they do. And we want to use flavours that can’t be found anywhere else.”

The 73 guest rooms are individually designed, which is appreciated by guests as they can come back and get a different

Famous architect Per Öberg has designed the spa, which opened at Christmas 2011.

Like the rest of the hotel, the spa décor

42 | Issue 92 | September 2016

carefully marries tradition with a modern feel. The spa includes a pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and gym, and even a private suite. Guests can also treat themselves to massage, facials, manicure and pedicure, all with quality products from Babor and Maria Åkerberg. The spa was named Newcomer of the Year 2014 at the Spa Awards.

“In these busy times, luxury and quality of life are about getting time for yourself,” says Svedberg. “This is not so much like staying at a hotel, but more like visiting the Åkerblads family. When our guests arrive, they can just sit back and relax for a while.”

For more information, please visit: www.akerblads.se

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

Relax and unwind by the sea Arken Hotel & Art Garden Spa is nestled in between the Gothenburg harbour and the sea. Inspired by the five elements, this is definitely a place for pure ‘me time’ and days when you just need a breather.

but during busy weekdays the spa guests can always sit in a separate part of the restaurant – where even a bathrobe is perfectly acceptable at the table.

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Arken Hotel & Art Garden Spa

“We are located in the outer harbour, 12 kilometres from the city centre. It is a nice contrast when you arrive and can walk out on the rocks to look at the ocean. That’s probably not what you expect on the way here,” says Maria Botéus, hotel manager at Arken Hotel & Art Garden Spa. The spa has plenty of room for you to unwind, such as in the orangery on level two, where you can lay back on a bamboo bed and enjoy the surroundings. There are no full-sized swimming pools, but instead you can soak in hot springs, try the steam room and ice scrub or relax in a cinnamon-scented sauna or outdoor saunas and a pool with a view.

“We are a calm and peaceful spa,” Botéus continues. “It is part of the whole philosophy to keep our voices down, avoid quick movements and certainly not have any mobile phones on in the spa.” The concept is inspired by the five

elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Ayurveda is at its heart, but the philosophy is also connected to seasonal changes and what our bodies need at different times.

“Winter translates into water and recreation, and that is perhaps when you need tranquillity the most. We have a dark room where you lay on tempered water beds and listen to nice music,” says the manager, explaining that you can take your pick from all the seasonal options before you start your spa experience.

One of the most popular features at the spa is the copper tub, where you can relax on hot lava stones. This autumn the spa will get four more of them due to popular demand.

Once you are completely relaxed, you can always enjoy a nice dinner in the restaurant. It has room for 350 guests,

For more information, please visit: www.arkenhotel.com

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 43

Photo: Badhotellet

A classic wellness retreat For more than 100 years, Badhotellet has been dedicated to the health and wellbeing of its many guests. With a tranquil atmosphere and award-winning spa ritual, this classic spa hotel holds its ground as a top-rated sanctuary.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Johan Lindqvist

Badhotellet is located in a beautiful park next to river Svartån in Tranås, within easy reach of Jönköping and Linköping.

Open for more than 100 years, this is one of Sweden’s oldest spa and conference hotels and a popular destination for relaxation and recreation.

The spa first opened its doors in 1899.

Axel Andersson, who suffered from ill health and had visited many retreats in Sweden and abroad, believed that the fresh air and peaceful surroundings of the small town of Tranås would provide the ideal setting for a spa. The aim was to offer healing water treatments according to the ethos of German priest Sebastian Kneipp, one of the forefathers of the naturopathic medicine movement.

Already in its first year of business, Andersson’s spa attracted around 300 44 | Issue 92 | September 2016

guests. Celebrities such as author Astrid Lindgren, former prime minister Tage Erlander and TV-show host Lennart Hyland were amongst the visitors in need of relaxation. Even King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden came to stay here during the spa hotel’s 100th anniversary celebrations in 1999 .

Prized spa ritual Over the years, the spa hotel has been continuously updated and it now offers a mix of fine old traditions and modern facilities as well as a first-class service and cuisine. “We have maintained the history and environment of Badhotellet and carefully carried out renovations to stay true to our heritage,” says marketing manager Regina Hamilton.

In 2015 the spa reopened following extensive renovations, offering a wide

choice of spa experiences such as the famous Badhotellet spa ritual. It is based on the healing powers of Kneipp’s hydrotherapy with a modern touch, and has been awarded Best Spa Ritual 2016 at the Spa Awards. Through a preset procedure the body gets used to the contrast between hot and cold springs, which is believed to increase the healing effect. Guests can also enjoy other relaxing treatments such as pedicures and massages with organic products from renowned spa brand Maria Åkerberg.

This is an attractive retreat in particular for couples on romantic getaways, but also for family celebrations and weddings as well as conferences and meetings. In addition to its comfortable guest rooms, modern meeting facilities and exclusive spa, Badhotellet offers a number of packages for days, evenings and weekends with luxurious treatments and activities.

For more information and bookings, please visit: www.badhotellet.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

Energise in Sweden’s only thalasso spa Varbergs Kusthotell is so close to the sea that you could swim there – literally.

Sweden’s only thalasso spa is located a mere 52 steps from the ocean, in the west Swedish town of Varberg.

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Suzanne Emanuelsson

The location and proud spa heritage are still the same, but much has happened at the hotel formerly known as Varbergs Kurort. It has been renovated, featuring a new thalasso spa and restaurant with a bistro – the name recently changed to Varbergs Kusthotell. “We changed it to strengthen our message of being a hotel located by the sea. But we also wanted to show that we are something new,” says Terese Asplund, CEO at Varbergs Kusthotell. “We have kept the feeling of the traditional health resort that we are and instead of creating a whole new style, we have modernised it.”

Kusthotell has it all and is so far the only certified thalasso spa in Sweden. “Many guests appreciate the sauna ritual and the products that you can bring into the pool area. They are connected to the sea so that you get that feeling even more strongly and understand what an amazing impact it has and how well it makes you feel,” Asplund says.

confirmation that they are giving their guests a complete experience.

“We have very few guests who come here only to sleep or eat; you are either here on a conference or for leisure. We can barely get people to go anywhere else to eat while they are here, which of course we are very happy about,” she says and adds: “I am very proud of our staff. They made this possible. We show that we really care about our guests, and we would never succeed without that.”

The sauna by the sea is open all year round, with several daily spa rituals. Some might hesitate to get in the cold water in the middle of winter. “Yet almost everyone ends up getting into the sea and coming up fresh and filled with energy,” she says.

Salt water and marine elements in focus

Swedish spa of the year

A thalasso spa is always found by the water, should have a salt-water pool and use marine elements such as seaweed or sea salt in its treatments. Varbergs

Varbergs Kusthotell was recently appointed Årets spa 2016 (Spa of the Year 2016) in the Swedish Spa Awards, something Asplund sees as a

Terese Asplund, CEO at Varbergs Kusthotell.

For more information, please visit: www.varbergskusthotell.se

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 45

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

Enjoying the good life Balancing old heritage in beautiful surroundings with top-quality conference facilities and a fantastic spa, Hooks Herrgård is the ultimate destination for a relaxing stay.

The fourth generation of the Edberg family ensures that guests feel welcome and get to fully experience the good life on the estate.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Hooks Herrgård

The Hooks estate south of Jönköping in Småland dates back to the 1300s, its first known owner being Herger Joarsson of the Oxenstierna dynasty. Construction of the grand mansion building began in 1778 and it still stands beautifully next to Lake Hoka. The Edberg family has been running the estate since 1963 and turned it into a first-class hotel and conference business, now with the fourth generation looking after its many guests.

silver in the category for Best Spa Conference at the Spa Awards, as well as Best Swedish Meeting Facility by Svenska Möten, Best Meeting Facility at Business Travel Award Customer’s Choice, and Best Golf Package by Golf Digest.

A destination in its own right

“At Hooks Herrgård, people can experience a genuine country estate,” says general manager Hans Edberg. “We want to balance our historic setting with comfort, and our guests praise us for the beautiful environment, lovely rooms and excellent food. And they appreciate the familiar atmosphere.”

The mansion was one of the first conference establishments in Sweden and, almost 50 years on, it is still incredibly popular. The award-winning 1,300-square-metre spa has a swimming pool with a stunning view of the lake, hot and cold springs, sauna and fitness amenities, and first-class beauty treatments. One of the main attractions on the grounds is of course golf, with two of the country’s best golf courses in the park and forest close by.

In addition to receiving great customer feedback, Hooks Herrgård has been named Best Newcomer and awarded

“This really is a destination in its own right,” says Edberg. “Guests can play golf, relax in the spa or train in the

46 | Issue 92 | September 2016

gym, head to the lake for some rowing or fishing, play tennis at Sonarp Tennis Club not far from here, and go hiking or cycling in the beautiful surroundings.”

Further afield await attractions such as Astrid Lindgren’s World and Orrefors Kosta Boda glassworks.

Hooks Herrgård has 105 rooms spread across eight buildings on the big estate.

Many guests take the opportunity to also book one of the exclusive themed packages, such as relaxing romance, golf or spa for the more active, or perhaps a combination. Regardless of the type and length of their stay, guests will certainly experience the good life at this grand estate.

For more information and bookings, please visit: www.hooksherrgard.se

Oriental philosophies in focus As the name implies, the atmosphere in the spa at Varbergs Stadshotell & Asia Spa is very much inspired by Asian traditions. The feeling is intimate, warm and cosy no matter if you are in your room, in the spa or at the restaurant.

“We have wonderful employees, very committed and interested. That is what gives the house its spirit, from the hotel and restaurant all the way to the spa.”

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Varbergs Stadshotell & Asia Spa

“Our Asia Spa is located on the top floor and you can really feel the tranquillity sink in the moment you enter,” says Bo Samuelsson, hotel manager at Varbergs Stadshotell & Asia Spa in Varberg on the Swedish west coast.

Every little detail revolves around finding and maintaining inner calm, including yoga, Pilates and qigong classes and treatments influenced by oriental philosophies such as Ayurveda, feng shui and the five elements.

You can enjoy several saunas as well as Japanese hot springs, and if you are not relaxed by then you likely will be when entering the vitality pool where the water is kept at 30 degrees and a pleasant fullbody massage awaits. “We have amazing views of the North Sea with terraces both indoors or outdoors, to suit no matter

the weather. The panorama windows by the hot springs are usually open all year round,” he says.

In the evening you can choose from traditional à la carte or a Japanese Kaiseki dinner, where you get to try multiple tasty dishes.

There is always something new to be discovered here, and Samuelsson talks about the latest addition: a venue for events, parties and activities. “It is the oldest house in Varberg and was once a storehouse. It has amazing vaults and goes very well with the rest of our business.”

The hotel rooms are divided into three different main styles: Boutique hotel, Classic and Deluxe to in order to provide the guest her favourite and most suitable option depending on their stay.

“Some have round beds, a bath tub or a Jacuzzi in the room for anyone wanting a more extravagant stay,” says Samuelsson, adding that even if this is a middle-sized hotel you should still be able to find your own little nook or favourite armchair in the common areas.

For more information, please visit: www.varbergsstadshotell.com

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 47

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

Photo: Cicci Möller

Find yourself in a spa designed by heart and heritage During the first half of the 14th century, it 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. Vadstena Klosterhotell has certainly had many guises over its lifetime, but fourth generation restaurateur Matilda Milton suggests that both King Magnus Eriksson and the very first nuns would feel right at home if they were to return. This is a place to switch off and relax – a place to find yourself.

By Linnea Dunne

“The beds are more comfortable now than they were back then – we are a fourstar hotel, after all – but there’s a sense of peace here that we’ve got for free,” Milton says. “The spa completes the sense of calm in your soul.” The spa only opened last year but has already won two titles from the annual Spa Awards: Best Spa Kitchen and Best Newcomer. The customers are equally impressed. “I’m 48 | Issue 92 | September 2016

starting to recognise quite a few of them now. Some return every few months.”

‘Built from the heart’ Thanks to Saint Bridget, the patron saint of Europe, Vadstena is an important pilgrimage site and you can take a pilgrimage all the way from here to Rome.

Milton talks about the development of the new spa as an urge to emphasise

the inner journey and the area’s already restful atmosphere. “We’re not spa geeks, and we didn’t have any architects involved. It’s all built from the heart,” she says. “We’ve simply tried to create the ultimate environment to unwind. There are separated areas so that you can stroll around without feeling like you’re being watched all the time. You can grab a piece of fruit or a glass of Champagne; we want guests to feel at home, like you’re always welcome, never in the way.”

While the lack of what Milton refers to as “flashy design” was partly a result of a limited budget, it was also a conscious decision to create a spa in tune with its surroundings and the monastery environment. The colours are soft and muted, and there are religious icons on

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

the walls. “The eye doesn’t need to work very hard,” she says. “It clearly works, because people keep falling asleep in the resting lounge.”

The current ritual is a head-to-toe treatment of scrubs, wraps, steam saunas and more, but also this aspect of the experience is about to get steeped in the monastery heritage. A herb garden on the grounds boasts herbs and medicinal plants cultivated by, among others, Johan Päterson, Sweden’s first known gardener and one of Saint Bridget’s squires in Rome. The restaurant kitchen uses herbs from the garden in its cooking and wedding guests like to gather for a toast in the picturesque, fragrant setting. Now the spa is looking to make use of this old resource too. “We’re working on a new ritual based on the herbs available in the garden, but it’s something we’re allowing to take time,” Milton explains.

At the less Spartan, more boastful end of the spectrum is the well-stocked wine cellar of 4,000 bottles and the breakfast experience in the 13th century former palace vaults. “The buildings speak for themselves. Entering the halls is a jawdropping experience – the history is in the walls. It’s a cultural heritage second to none,” Milton enthuses. “If you think about it, it would’ve taken quite a long time for all the royals, who travelled from all over Europe by horse and carriage, just to attend a party here. They must have been some pretty amazing parties.”

Photo: Cicci Möller

Photo: Cicci Möller

For more information, please visit: www.klosterhotel.se

Conferencing with presence Complete relaxation may be coveted, especially by those on a break from work, but businesses have seen the benefits of unwinding too. “The peace and quiet here means that people can really focus on the decision that is to be made right now,” says Milton. “It’s about presence – no one is thinking about collecting the kids.

It makes a conference calm but effective: there’s a clear purpose and clear results.

Our conference guests call it value for money. And they keep coming back.”

With a restful environment being central at the spa, no children are allowed and chatter is kept to a minimum. Conference guests, however, can book the spa after hours to hold meetings in the pool without having to worry about bothering anyone.

Mondays at the spa take a different spin.

“We’re closed on Mondays, but our lovely nuns are welcome to pop by then for a bit of luxury relaxation. The Bible says they’re allowed,” Milton laughs. “They were here drinking Champagne with us for the opening!” The nuns also welcome guests to stay with them and join retreats for that added peace and quiet, while those who prefer to relax by shopping will enjoy the charming town centre with its cobbled streets and many antique shops.

Photo: Cicci Möller

Photo: Fredrik Lundquist

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 49

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

CEO Anders Pertun.

The new Selma Spa rooftop terrace.

Welcome to Sweden’s first spa Selma spa in Sunne, Sweden, opened in 1991. The fitness trend was on the rise and they decided to combine this with the old European spa tradition. 25 years later, the spa is still a great place for combining cardiovascular exercise, mindfulness and culinary experiences.

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Selma spa

The concept was created with a holistic view of the whole human in mind – good food and movement in combination.

“What we did back then is part of our DNA today. We offered several classes per day, both mindful and cardio, as we wanted to leave room to recharge too.

The difference now is that we focus even more on activities and the possibility to have an active spa experience in a modern and conscious way,” says Anders Pertun, CEO at Selma Spa.

Workouts and mindfulness The spa’s payoff, ‘Mjölksyra och Champagne’ (which translates as ‘lactic acid and Champagne’), is a tongue-incheek nod to the fact that you find all aspects of wellbeing here. “We are in many respects an active spa. But that does not mean that we want people to get lactic acid or indeed that everyone must 50 | Issue 92 | September 2016

“I see myself standing up there giving the New Year’s speech or that we go outside to enjoy some mulled wine now and then in winter. Perhaps we’ll make holiday season door wreaths in the green house?

It should very much be a venue all year round,” he says.

drink Champagne either – but it is about workouts and rewards,” Pertun says and adds: “We don’t want to work out now to get rewarded at Christmas. We can take a hard cardio class but want to get some form of reward pretty quickly. We give the opportunity to work out, go for a calm walk in the forest, enjoy a glass of Champagne or something completely different, like dinner or a good smoothie.”

New rooftop terrace When Pertun started his job as CEO at Selma Spa in 2009, he spotted great potential in the roof above the spa. This summer his vision became reality and the 546-square-metre-large Selma Spa rooftop terrace opened. It includes an outdoor kitchen, a bar and a green house and has been very well received by visitors and locals alike. The idea is to make use of it all through the seasons.

For more information, please visit: www.selmaspa.se

Top left: From the Le Budoir suite, designed by Carita Järvinen. Right: The Global suite, designed by Carolina Klüft.

In the heart of Hälsingland Orbaden is one of the most beautiful lakeside resorts in Sweden, located by the Ljusnan river and in the heart of Hälsingland. It is now also home to Orbaden Spa & Resort, with an exciting mix of tranquility and design collaborations.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Orbaden Spa & Resort

Orbaden is often called the Riviera of Hälsingland and has long been popular for its fresh air and clear water. Back in the 1920s, the land hosted a restaurant, a campsite and a dance pavilion. Over the years, it has changed owners and the bed & breakfast later became a hotel.

The spa opened in 2007 and its facilities have been continuously updated. It offers treatments with products from Kerstin Florian and packages such as yoga weekends. Both the sauna and the outdoor pool boast spectacular views of the Ljusnan river and the valley all the way up to Järvsö. In the restaurant, guests can enjoy healthy international cuisine with a local twist and a great vegetarian menu.

“Orbaden is a very special place,“ says general manager Helene Åkerström Hartman. “This is a creative spot with

plenty of cultural heritage and activities, but it also breathes tranquility. It doesn’t take long to unwind.”

Think global, act local New this autumn is an exciting collaboration with celebrities designing five new suites. Famous actor Peter Stormare is from the area and has designed a suite with Japan, LA and Hälsingland as inspiration. Local native, model and TV host Victoria Silvstedt has created the glamorous Very Victoria suite with influences from New York. Athlete Carolina Klüft has designed Local with a sleek Scandinavian style and colourful Global based on her work for human rights. Lastly, former model Carita Järvinen is the creator of Le Budoir with a Marie Antoinette and Versailles theme.

Orbaden Spa & Resort is also opening a number of junior suites: Our Africa,

inspired by Kenya and Karen Blixen, with proceeds going to a lion conservation project; The Heritage with furniture and decoration from the local area; Gerdas, inspired by artist Gerda Wegener and in support of human rights; and Chelsea, with influences from American photographer Robert Mapplethorpe.

Local artist Mårten Andersson has also contributed with art on display throughout the resort. Åkerström Hartman recommends visitors to explore the beautiful surroundings and attractions such as Hälsingegårdarna, the typical old farmhouses now protected

by UNESCO. Other activities include cross-country skiing and ice-skating in winter, and hiking, cycling and canoeing in summer. For the brave, Sweden’s fastest zip line is close by, and beer lovers can check out local micro brewery Organic Smash.

For more information, please visit: www.orbaden.se

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 51

A generous feeling of stillness

– in the heart of Gothenburg It has been less than a decade since Sankt Jörgen Park opened its doors to welcome city dwellers, business people, spa lovers and golf enthusiasts to an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. Yet the resort is far from a rookie. Its spa ritual concept has been copied widely and showered with awards, and next year it is set to get even better.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Knut Koivisto

“We always envisaged that the spa ritual would be our thing, our uniqueness – but it obviously hasn’t quite worked out that way,” says director Kia Andersson.

“But now that the concept has spread, it’s making us even more determined to keep developing what we do and show that we’re leading the way.” While last year’s Africa-themed ritual sent a total of 100,000 SEK to the school Great Andoh in Ghana, this year’s Rio ritual flirts with the main event of this summer while helping 52 | Issue 92 | September 2016

to fund a project supporting young mothers in Rio de Janeiro. “The spa ritual for 2017 is still a work in progress, but it’s going to be really swell,” the director reveals.

Naturally, the spa was built with the rituals in mind, offering tailor-made stations including everything from marble washrooms to saunas with a range of temperatures and fragrances.

Guests who sign up for the ritual are

given a little bag with all their products and information and then they enter what is simply referred to as heaven, and relaxation resumes. “We’re constantly trying to improve what we do by thinking about the experience from the customer’s perspective. It has to be easy and straightforward, no strange doors or confusing corridors; there’s meant to be a flow and a welcoming environment,” Andersson explains. “A generous feeling.”

Renewing and improving But while countless awards and titles have the team confident that the spa ritual concept is a winner, the urge to renew and improve adds a certain humility to the place. In many ways, the main objective has been to refine what the resort already

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

does so well and to communicate that clearly to its guests. “We’ve worked with a wide range of treatments in the past, but we’ve streamlined things recently to work more with classic massages and my own signature treatment, just to make everything easier for our guests,” says Andersson. “But we’re also really passionate about skincare.

We use products from a number of really strong skincare brands, and our aim is to become our guests’ go-to place for facials so that we can really get to know them and provide continuous first-class treatments.”

Topping the list of current excitements are the plans to transform the outside space by adding a big heated pool alongside the hot spring. “We’ll call it the Pool Club and people will be able to swing by for a day of lunch in the sun and swimming, perhaps starting the day with an outdoor yoga session.” In addition, there will be a VIP lounge. “This is one of the areas where

we can really add something of huge benefit to our guests, and particularly for conferences. Rather than heading down to the public spa after a meeting and bumping into other spa guests, businesses and groups of 30-35 people will be able to hire the lounge and go for a sauna ritual and maybe some time in the Jacuzzi with a cold beer or Champagne.

You can get some tapas, maybe continue the conversations from the meeting or just relax.”

Golf, fitness and award-winning food While the spa ritual concept is certainly one of Sank Jörgen Park’s strengths, there are plenty of reasons why businesses keep coming back for conferences here. Not only do the grounds of the resort boast an 18-hole golf course, complete with a world-class Golf Academy; there is also a sports club with around 30 professional instructors to help with both physical and mental wellbeing. They also host classes such as spinning, trigger point grid,

MAQ and yogilates – all of this in a lush, spacious setting just ten minutes from Gothenburg’s central station.

Whether you come for a meeting or some downtime and a treat, food will naturally play an important role during your stay.

With four eateries on offer, the options are almost endless at Sankt Jörgen Park, but it is the RAW food place that Andersson is most excited about. “It works really well with our wellness concept and is so good and on-trend that it’s brought an entire new audience our way,” she says. “People are incredibly conscious of what they eat these days, so it’s been immensely popular.” The resort was named Spa Kitchen of the Year in 2013 and won gold at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards this year. Your gut will be happy – as will your soul. What more could you ask for?

For more information, please visit: www.sanktjorgenpark.se

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 53

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

Enjoy a treatment.

Jämtland calling – a spa experience inspired by nature Walk through the mist and explore the magical forest of Jämtland, Sweden. The spa at Quality Hotel Frösö Park in Östersund is a modern wellness experience inspired by the materials and sensations of the forest. Explore a spa dream made of local wood, stone and natural phenomena.

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Quality Hotel Frösö Park

Quality Hotel Frösö Park is located on the island of Frösön, a stone’s throw from Östersund airport, with deep forests and lake Storsjön right on the doorstep. The conditions for an active stay could not be better – with a total of 1,300 square metres of gym indoors and outdoors, an obstacle course and an array of trails for cycling, running or walking. But after a busy day, the spa awaits.

“What our guests appreciate the most is the access to nature and how we have managed to make our spa the oasis we 54 | Issue 92 | September 2016

want it to be. When you are here for meetings or sports competitions, you need that contrast,” says Anneli Helmerson, spa manager at Quality Hotel Frösö Park.

With only three minutes to the airport and just over five minutes to the city centre, the location is also very convenient for work and meetings. “The rooms are in a separate part of the hotel and are quiet with comfortable beds, so nothing will disturb your sleep. But as soon as you walk into the conjoined building you find everything you need – the spa, gym

and the restaurant – so that’s another contrast,” she says.

Interiors from local wood and stone The hotel is just over a year old and the spa opened as late as December 2015.

But the resort has already received its first award. Frösö Park came in second in the Swedish Spa Awards category Årets nykomling (Rookie of the Year), for the achievement of successfully turning the nature of Jämtland into pure Nordic spa delight.

“The spa feels like the outdoors, even if you are indoors. That is a very nice feeling, and the environment is perfectly balanced. We want our guests to feel at home here; it’s fantastic that the average stay lasts four to five hours,” says Helmerson.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best Spas in Sweden

The spa has been designed by acclaimed Swedish architect Thomas Sandell and the simplicity of Jämtland along with wood, stone and the mist have been sources of inspiration in the process.

The lounge chairs have been especially designed by Sandell and were produced locally, from local wood. “We work almost solely with the materials we have here,” the manager explains. “The furniture was made locally and everything is as local as possible to remind us of Jämtland.”

Elements of nature The large spa covers 1,200 square metres spread over two floors. The upper floor is dedicated to the main spa experience, while the lower floor is more about treatments, relaxation by the fire or enjoying a complimentary cup of tea.

The spa has four different saunas and five different water features, all inspired by a counterpart in the nearby nature.

“Our steam room, Dimman [The Fog], is named after a unique phenomenon here on the island of Frösön: the fog is like a circle around the island, but once

you get onto the island itself it clears up,” Helmerson says and explains that it occurs because the lake is cool.

Similarly, the bubbling footbaths refer to real potholes and the rosemary and thyme-scented ‘cave’ is a sensation full of earth, inspired by a local coral cave.

The signature treatments are also inspired by nature and designed to provide new energy or help you relax and unwind. Classics such as facials, scrubs and massages are of course available too. One thing all treatments have in common is the possibility to tailor them to your needs at any given day – to relax or find new energy.

“We have three very popular signature treatments right now: Lerbåket, which is an energising treatment; the cleansing Fjällvidderna; and Skogsturen, which is really calming, relaxing and more balancing,” says Helmerson.

Spa rituals are also available, picking up on old traditions in combination with contrasts between hot and cold elements.

Rapid changes provide new energy, while a slower tempo between hot and cold gives a relaxing and calm feeling.

“Our day spa with the ritual is specifically designed to help the guest get more out of their visit and enjoy a better experience,” says Helmerson. “It is not always easy to know what you can do in a spa and what happens in your body when you do certain things.”

The surrounding forests have been an inspiration.

For more information, please visit: www.frosoparkhotel.se

Find new energy or time to relax.

The lounge chairs are designed

by Thomas Sandell.

Relax in the steam room.

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 55

W

S

IN AU pecia TE TU l Th e R M IN EX N A me: NO PE ND RW RIE AY NC ES

Photo: Øyvind Blomstereng

Photo: CH - Visitnorway.com

Photo: Magnar Kirknes

An autumn of culture and gourmet food in stunning scenery Autumn has arrived in Norway. For most Norwegians this means waving a wistful goodbye to summer. Luckily, autumn is a time for adventures, clean crisp air, beautiful colours in nature, cosy evenings in front of the fireplace and a calendar full of cultural events.

By Visit Norway

Oslo is Norway’s vibrant capital between the fjord and the forests. No matter where you are in Oslo, a hike in the forest is just a hop, skip and a jump (or a short metro ride) away. Or just start out with a walk on the roof of the Opera House, taking in the sights of the Oslo fjord. Afterwards you can head down to the Town Hall and take a ferry out to the islands, or take a stroll along the harbour to Tjuvholmen and visit the Astrup Fearnley Museum of modern and contemporary art. In the evening, go out for an unforgettable meal in one of Oslo’s many rising stars on the Nordic culinary scene.

Did you know that you do not have wait until winter for a chance to see the northern lights? In northern Norway, it

is possible to tick this natural wonder off your bucket list in late September.

The arctic city of Tromsø is a perfect destination for an autumn adventure.

You are close to both the sea and the inland, meaning that you have better chances of finding the perfect conditions for hunting the lights. Tromsø is a city packed with culture and history and is known for its lively nightlife and boasts an array of restaurants and bars offering a true taste of the Arctic.

For foodies, Trondheim is another great choice. This beautiful historical city is right in the middle of Norway’s food region, Trøndelag, with many excellent restaurants focusing on local food. It is also home to several local breweries, a

food hall, and Norway’s most popular Farmers’ Market. If farm-fresh organic food is your thing, do not miss out on a trip along the Golden Road. This detour passes through beautiful scenery in the heart of the culinary region. You can visit farms along the road, enter the houses and sample treats such as farm-produced meat, cheese, baked goods and honey. Or how about a beer or aquavit tasting? If you are planning on a trip closer to Christmas, do not miss out on Trondheim’s Christmas Market in the main square, Torvet. Go on a horse-andsleigh ride while gobbling down local delicacies made of reindeer or moose.

With direct flights from London to many Norwegian destinations, it is the perfect place to spend a long autumn weekend.

For suggestions on accommodation, travel itineraries and activities before you travel, please visit: www.visitnorway.com

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 57

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Above: Vision of the Fjords is a brand new hybrid vessel launched this summer. When the boat runs on battery power, you can listen more closely to nature’s own sounds.

Photo: Sverre Hjørnevik. Bottom: Viewpoint. Photo: Jonny Akselsen

The lord of the fjord Fretheim Hotel is a true legend in Fjord Norway. Once a hotbed for well-off Englishmen fishing in Flåm, the historic hotel still provides travellers with comfortable accommodation, local cuisine and easy access to the UNESCO-protected Sognefjord.

By Eirik Elvevold

Another train full of passengers departs from Flåm station. During the next hour, it will take them from the glittering Aurlandsfjord to Myrdal station at 867 metres above sea level. The Flåm Railway, one of the steepest in the world, climbs through Norwegian mountains, past waterfalls, viewpoints and farming villages, before descending back down to Flåm. “For many years, Flåm has been one of Norway’s most popular tourist destinations because its nature is so spectacular, maybe even more so in the winter when snow covers the steep hillsides and the fjord freezes,” says Connie Konglevoll, sales manager at the centrally located Fretheim Hotel.

Established in the late 19th century to accommodate wealthy Englishmen fishing for trout and salmon, the venerable hotel can be found at the very end of a fjord branch by the name of Aurlandsfjord. Fretheim Hotel has 121 rooms divided between a modern and a 58 | Issue 92 | September 2016

historical part recognised by Norwegian membership organisation Historic hotels.

After you have recharged your batteries with some locally sourced food at the hotel restaurant Arven (’the Inheritance’) there are plenty of things to do right outside.

“I would recommend to take a walk in Flåm’s iconic scenery, go ski touring up a nearby mountain peak or take a fjord cruise with the brand new boat, Vision of the Fjords,” Konglevoll says.

The elegant hybrid vessel Vision of the Fjords, inspired by the area’s winding

mountain trails, was launched by Norwegian company The Fjords in the summer of 2016 to enhance the fjord experience even further. Equipped with large windows and a cutting-edge hybrid engine, the vessel switches to battery power when it arrives in the most vulnerable and spectacular areas of the UNESCO World Heritage area Nærøyfjord. “Vision of the Fjords is both innovative and environmental and gives you a rare and peaceful panorama.

When it floats by at a mere ten knots, it’s practically silent,” Konglevoll says.

FRETHEIM HOTEL AT A GLANCE: - Located in Flåm in western Norway.

- Next to the Sognefjord – the world’s deepest and second-longest fjord.

- 121 rooms in different categories.

- The Flåm Railway departs closeby.

- Vision of the Fjords, a brand new hybrid vessel, was launched in 2016.

For more information, please visit: www.fretheimhotel.no or www.visitflam.com

AUTUMN IS HERE

VISIT FLÅM OFFERS A PALETTE OF GOOD EXPERIENCES IN THE AUTUMN! FRETHEIM HOTEL The historical charm of this timber built hotel makes you feel warmly welcomed and at home.

The restaurant serves traditional, seasonal and local food delivered daily from local producers and farmers.

Welcome!

FLÅMSBANA

STEGASTEIN

Experience one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world and explore the very best aspects of the wild and stunning West Norwegian mountain landscape.

Visit the spectacular Stegastein Viewpoint located 650 meters above sea level, overlooking the majestic fjord landscape. The viewpoint is part of the National Tourist roads.

The Flåm Railway Museum offers a great exhibition about the history of the Flåm Railway.

Daily departures from Flåm.

AURLAND SKOFABRIKK The Aurland Shoe factory and Économusée in Aurland is a display of traditional handicraft.

Follow the steps of shoe making and visit the exhibition and shoe shop.

Welcome!

FLÅM BAKERY

VISION OF THE FJORDS

Enjoy homemade bread, pastries, sandwiches, ice cream and coffee.

Fruit and berries are locally grown and is an inspiration for the flavors of ice cream and pastries.

Welcome!

Join a fjord cruise in the UNESCO World Heritage area Nærøyfjord. The brand new hybrid vessel Vision of The Fjords presents innovative Norwegian design and world leading eco technology.

www.visitflam.com | info@visitflam.com | +47 57 63 14 00 Photo: Sverre Hjørnevik, M. Thisner, Alex Baier, Marius Moldvær

Take part in centuries-old fishing traditions After decades as a professional fisherman and spending his days at sea in the fishrich Lofoten Islands, Harald Nilsen decided to open his world up to visitors from around the globe. Together with his father he bought Hemmingodden, where they combined traditional longline fishing and tourism. Today his children have taken over Hemmingodden Lofoten Fishing Lodge, continuing the tradition by offering tourists a nice place to rest their heads after a long day in the mountains or at sea chasing big fish, in addition to secret fishing and beauty spots known only to the locals.

By Helene Toftner | Photos: Hemmingodden Lofoten Fishing Lodge

The Lofoten Islands, located above the Arctic Circle and known for the dramatic mountains shooting straight up from the sea, is one of the best fishing spots along the Norwegian coast and regularly feature on people’s bucket list of places to visit. Hemmingodden Lofoten Fishing Lodge is one of the favoured places on the islands, offering guests a piece of authentic fishing history along with 60 | Issue 92 | September 2016

comfortable fisherman’s cabins. “Many of our guests are eager anglers, coming back year after year,” says managing director Trond-Ketil Nilsen. He is one of Harald’s children, who all run the fishing lodge together.

The fishing lodge is situated in the charming fishing village of Ballstad, which to this day is the second-biggest

fishing village in Lofoten. However, while being a vibrant place with restaurants, cafés and supermarkets within easy reach, the word ‘big’ in this context is a far cry from the sizeable places its international visitors come from. “The things our guests appreciate most about Hemmingodden are its peacefulness and stunning scenery. All of our cabins have beautiful views and a deck where guests can relax with the sea as their garden,” Nilsen says.

Join the iconic Lofoten cod fisheries While offering a good bed to sleep in and a modern self-catered kitchen where guests can prepare the catch of the day, in a comfortable, cosy cabin with excellent Wi-Fi, Hemmingodden Lofoten Fishing Lodge also has a growing fleet

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

of small solid fishing boats for visitors to use in addition to fishing equipment.

“Guests can use the boats on their own and usually come back with a few extra kilogrammes,” Nilsen smiles. Lofoten is renowned as a fishing paradise, and even new anglers can expect to return with some sort of story to brag about, with typical catch including cod, halibut and catfish. “For the inexperienced fisher and boat driver, we offer guided tours and skippers,” Nilsen adds.

While the fishing is great all year round, something magical happens in the iconic Lofoten cod fisheries around February and March every year. Throughout these months, fishermen from all over Norway head for Lofoten to catch the splendid skrei, or Arctic cod. Returning from the Barents Sea to their exact place of birth in Lofoten to reproduce each year, skrei is considered one of the world’s finest cod due to the lean muscles they develop while swimming such a long way home.

This is probably the closest one would

come to a northern Norwegian street party, with people out and about from early morning until late night, albeit at sea. “It is a sight and an experience whether on land or at sea,” says Nilsen.

Islands full of adventures You would be excused for thinking that Lofoten is all about the fish. However, any visitor will be gobsmacked by the stunning, dramatic mountains that rise from the sea, inviting hiking trips in summer with the midnight sun and skiing in winter. “We are located pretty much in the middle of the islands, where guests can easily take day trips east to Henningsvær and Svolvær, with several museums and restaurants, or west to the iconic Nusfjord, Å and Reine. As such, many of our guests may try fishing for a day or two, and then mix it up with other nature activities,” Nilsen explains.

Another big attraction during winter is the mystical northern lights. Lofoten is one of the best places in the world to see

the dancing lights due to a combination of the northern latitude and easy access to both sea and land, meaning a variety of weather conditions within short distances. “Seeing the northern lights is a dream of many, and we offer activities for those wishing to explore them,” says Nilsen.

Hemmingodden Lofoten Fishing Lodge is conveniently located 12 kilometres from Leknes Airport, with connections to Bodø and Oslo. At Leknes you can hire a car, request pick-up or take the local bus to Ballstad. You can also fly to Evenes Airport and rent a car from there. Alternatively fly into Bodø and take the ferry or the Hurtigruten coastal express ship over to the islands for a magnificent entrance.

For more information and to book, please visit www.hemmingodden.no or book via www.booking.com and www.dintur.no

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 61

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Photo: Røldal Skisenter

Photo: Røldal Skisenter

Main image: Røldalsterrassen was designed by the Norwegian architecture firm Momentum Arkitekter. Photo: Kari Aarhus Dolmen.

Off-piste paradise Røldalsterrassen is the active tourist’s dream spot. You can freeride in Norway’s deepest snow, go fishing, hike and hunt right outside your door. When you are done for the day, head back for afterski, a hearty meal and some well-deserved quality sleep.

By Eirik Elvevold

Electronic music is pumping from Røldalsterrassen’s basement bar K2.

Tired skiers follow the sound, leaving their equipment behind in favour of the best afterski in town. When they arrive at the architecturally stunning building, nearly drowning in snow, traditional Norwegian food finally gives them a 62 | Issue 92 | September 2016

long-awaited energy boost while cold drinks counter the warm afterglow of a day in the Røldal Mountains. Luckily, no one has to worry about tomorrow, as the mountains are right outside the door.

“When people wake up, they can go straight back out to an off-piste paradise,”

says owner Ross Porter. In addition to afterski, Røldalsterrassen offers highquality food and accommodation right at the base of the Røldal Mountains, which have become famous for deep snow and for hosting the yearly Røldal Freeride Challenge (RFC). “Our apartments and cabins have ski-in and ski-out to Røldal Ski Resort’s express lift, which is a natural starting point when accessing the mountains,” Porter explains.

Freeriders and families The express lift is only one of Røldal Ski Resort’s seven lifts transporting visitors

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

from the base area at 680 metres above sea level up to altitudes as high as 1,300 metres above sea level. Most of the ski resort is located above the tree line.

This high-alpine environment leads to a varying number of prepared trails, but also produces wide open areas ideal for freeriding. “You won’t find deeper snow anywhere in northern Europe. The climate is perfect for both freeriding and ski touring, which can sometimes be done all year round, but there are trails well suited for families as well,” Porter confirms.

There are usually around 12 open trails measuring 15 kilometres, where everyone from the curious beginner to the professional daredevil can find a challenge. There are also numerous trails in the area for those who prefer cross-country skiing. “The cross-country trails going around the centre of Røldal and through the neighbouring town of Seljestad are really good,” Porter says.

A generous portion of wilderness Røldalsterrassen is an ideal base for tourists seeking to experience the natural

wonders of western Norway. Apart from skiing in the Røldal Mountains, visitors can enjoy fishing, hunting and berry picking in the surrounding nature. Porter explains that the wild Norwegian nature has become an instinctive part of the culinary experience at Røldalsterassen.

“Reindeer and grouse are often on our party menu. We also serve large portions of traditional Norwegian food, so-called ‘husmannskost’, with a lot of potatoes and meat. Our Sunday buffets and homemade burgers are also popular with the guests,” he says.

By booking an apartment or cabin at Røldalsterrassen, you will be living in close proximity to famous tourist destinations such as Trolltunga (or ‘the Troll’s Tongue’) and Hardangervidda.

Trolltunga, described by Visit Norway as “one of the most spectacular scenic cliffs in Norway”, is a rock pointing horizontally out of a mountain 700 metres above the lake Ringedalsvatnet. Hardangervidda is the largest mountain plateau of its kind in Europe, most of which is protected as part of the Hardangervidda National Park. The

vast plateau has a wide network of huts and paths and is popular among hikers, bikers, climbers, fishers and skiers. It is also home to a huge glacier and one of the largest herds of wild reindeer in the world.

Business from the big cities Due to its location in between several of Norway’s bigger cities, Røldalsterrassen aims to become a natural choice for businesses and other big groups planning a conference or team-building session. If you travel by car, it will take you approximately two hours to Haugesund, three hours to Bergen or Stavanger and four hours to Oslo or Kristiansand.

“People from different cities can easily meet up here. We offer everything from food and accommodation to activities and entertainment for big groups,” Porter affirms. He adds that K2 is well suited not only for afterski, but also for company Christmas parties and other events.

“We do everything from Oktoberfest and Johnny Cash tributes to hip DJs – the best of both worlds from countryside and city,” Porter concludes.

FIVE GOOD REASONS TO BOOK A STAY AT RØLDALSTERRASSEN: - Cabins and apartments with ski-in and ski-out to Røldal Ski Resort.

- Northern Europe’s deepest snow.

- Proximity to famous tourist destinations such as Trolltunga and Hardangervidda.

- Terrace with beautiful views and Wi-Fi. - Traditional Norwegian food.

Left: Norwegian reindeer meat has become an important part of the menu at Røldalsterrassen. Photo: Kari Aarhus Dolmen. Right: Røldalsterrassen offers cabins and apartments located right next to Røldal Ski Resort’s express lift. Photo: Kari Aarhus Dolmen. Below: The Røldal Mountains are popular among skiers looking for an experience out of the ordinary outside prepared trails. Photo: Røldal Skisenter

For more information, please visit: www.roldalsterrassen.no

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 63

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Zen by the sea – with a crazy twist Feel like escaping everyday life? Whether you are looking for adrenaline-packed activities or inner peace, Vassdalsvik Sea Lodge offers a personal and warm experience of northern Norway’s majestic nature.

By Eirik Elvevold | Photos: Vassdalsvik Sea Lodge

In 2013, Norwegian electrical engineer Fred Inge Kristensen and Swedish lawyer Helén Lindqvist fell in love while working together in Qatar. One day, while sitting on a sand dune, Helén got to see a picture of her new boyfriend’s childhood home Vassdalsvik in northern Norway. She fell in love with the picture as well, and they decided to visit.

“The first boat ride from Bodø to Vassdalsvik was overwhelming and changed our lives forever,” Helén says.

The couple quickly got the idea of turning a family property, once home to a fishing and farming company, into a sea lodge. “Things moved pretty fast. Vassdalsvik Sea Lodge came from a simple and genuine vision. I knew that if I got that amazed by the place, others would too,” says Helén.

Visitors and businesses from near and far now come to stay in the fully renovated Pier House to get an immediate connection with nature. How you wish to enjoy that nature, however, is entirely up to you. You can take a yoga class in the wild, go ski touring straight from a boat, watch sea eagles or just eat Lindqvist’s now-famous homemade food.

“Everyone’s path is different, so it’s essential to listen. Some guests need a break, others

seek action. Regardless, we like to offer something personal and real,” Helén says.

For more information, please visit: www.vassdalsviksealodge.com or www.facebook.com/ vassdalsviksealodge

Fred Inge Kristensen and Helén Lindqvist.

Pushing everyone’s boundaries What do members of the national team in cross-country skiing, a three-year-old, and an adult with a serious fear of heights have in common? You would be excused for not immediately thinking of a place, but Rypetoppen Adventurepark is indeed it.

As one of Norway’s biggest and safest climbing parks, it offers a challenge or two for most.

By Helene Toftner | Photos: Fotograf Eidsmo/Erlend B. Enger

Far into the woods, about one and a half hours from Trondheim, an adventure oasis appears as Rypetoppen Adventurepark has incorporated its climbing park into scenic surroundings. With numerous different trails, it offers challenges for children as well as trained professionals – even the Swedish national team in cross-country skiing.

“It is meant to be a place for everyone, and active families in particular like to make their way here,” says operational manager and co-owner Stig Aasgård, adding that the park automatically encourages people to push their boundaries. “People often start out terrified of heights, to then 64 | Issue 92 | September 2016

almost jump from one track to another with a smile on their face.”

The climbing park is located in a forest open to all, with stunning waterfalls and lakes inviting guests to go fishing and canoeing. “It is free to access the area, and people are welcome to bring their own picnic baskets if they wish. Many simply come here for the nice atmosphere and a good hike,” Aasgård says.

Rypetoppen Adventurepark is easily reached by car from Trondheim and Værnes Airport, with international flights to places including London, Copenhagen and Amsterdam.

For more information, please visit: www.rypetoppen.no

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Left: Every winter, orcas and humpback whales come to feast on herring right outside the docks at Hamn i Senja. Photo: www.andershanssen.com. Right: These beautiful beaches can be found on the islands around Norway’s second-largest island, Senja. Photo: Daniel Kordan

The Caribbean of the Arctic The holiday and conference resort Hamn i Senja is an arctic treasure waiting to be discovered and re-discovered. Once you experience its unrivalled range of activities surrounded by arctic nature, rare whales and glittering northern lights, you will be swept off your feet.

ACTIVITIES AT HAMN I SENJA: - Northern lights tours - Whale safari - Midnight sun cruise - Body rafting

By Eirik Elvevold

- Fjord exploration and sightseeing

“Words can’t ever describe this place,” says Kari Anne Fredriksen who works as marketing manager at Hamn i Senja, an award-winning resort located on the west coast of Norway’s second largest island, Senja. Once a trading station and fishing village, the famous resort, named after the Norwegian word for harbour, is so overwhelmingly beautiful it was selected as Norway’s best travel product in 1995 – only a year after opening.

Much has happened since then. Today, Hamn i Senja offers accommodation and food of a high standard, perfect for escaping that far too common everyday stress, combined with the widest spectrum of activities and nature experiences in northern Norway. Every winter, for instance, a rare moment occurs when large groups of orcas and humpback whales arrive to feast

on herring beneath the crystal clear northern lights. “After travelling south along the Norwegian coast, the whales gather right outside our docks. Some guests have heard them breathing from their bedroom at night. When they look up at you with their big eyes, face to face, you’re left feeling very humble,” Fredriksen says.

- Fishing trips - Guided kayaking trips - Dog sledding - Mountain hikes and mountaineering - National Tourist Route - Skiing – summit to sea - Cycling - Snowshoe tours - Outdoor hot-tub with a twist - Meetings and events

You can easily follow the whales out to sea by boat. They will lead you past breathtaking mountains, deep fjords and – most surprisingly – beaches. “The beaches look like the Caribbean of the Arctic. Diving, snorkling or body rafting between the small islands while the sea eagles hover above is just mind-blowing and works well for conferences out of the ordinary. Luckily, the natural and genuine service culture in northern Norway will keep you grounded,” Fredriksen concludes with a warm smile.

THREE FAST FACTS ABOUT SENJA: - Norway’s second-largest island.

- Located at 69°N – above the Arctic Circle.

- Home to the world’s largest troll: the Senja Troll (17.96 metres).

For more information, please visit: www.hamnisenja.no

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 65

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Photo: Lloyd Rehnlund

Arctic adventures for everyone Are you dreaming of a wild winter adventure in Norwegian Lapland, but worry that it might be too challenging? Think again! Lyngsfjord Adventure takes you straight from city to arctic excursion in no time.

By Eirik Elvevold

“We’ve had guests as young as six months and as old as 93. Here at Lyngsfjord Adventures, you need no previous skills, special equipment or expensive clothing to go on a sledding or snowmobile tour under the northern lights,” says HansOlav Eriksen. The enthusiastic CEO is the brain behind several tourism companies in the beautiful Tromsø region, one of which is Lyngsfjord Adventure. The business philosophy is simple: Eriksen wants to get rid of all the entry barriers to northern Norwegian nature and offer arctic adventures of high quality for everyone.

“Tourists usually think it’s more challenging than it really is, so we’ve made it as easy as possible. We pick you up in Tromsø, and a few hours later you’ll be heading out from Camp Tamok on a dog sledge in minus 20 degrees 66 | Issue 92 | September 2016

Celsius,” Eriksen explains. Camp Tamok, a wilderness camp located beneath the awe-inspiring Lyngen Alps and a mere 75 minutes from the city of Tromsø, will serve as your base. The stable, dry climate and minimal light pollution makes it a perfect place for watching the northern lights. “Camp Tamok is known for its clear sky. In the winter dark, when the sun is gone all day and night, you’re practically guaranteed to see some magic rays,” says Eriksen.

Even though Lyngsfjord Adventure specialises in making the Arctic accessible, CEO Eriksen stresses the importance of keeping the experience authentic. Sami traditions therefore play a key role not only in dog and reindeer sledding, but also in local guiding, food and accommodation. “You’ll be staying in a traditional Sami herdsmen’s tent called

’lavvu’, without water or power. Imagine coming home from a trip and warming yourself in front of the fire. In many ways, Camp Tamok is an adventure in itself,” says Eriksen.

Photo: Sweet films

EXCURSIONS AT LYNGSFJORD ADVENTURE: - Dog sledding - Snowmobile safari - Northern lights visit - Reindeer sledding - Full-day programme - Overnight stay

For more information, please visit: www.lyngsfjord.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

A tale of northern spirits Quality alcoholic beverages can fuel great storytelling. At Aurora Spirit, the world's northernmost distillery, a new line of Norwegian spirits is telling the fascinating story of an underestimated region.

By Eirik Elvevold | Photos: David Gonzales, 7minus

“The first batch of gin is just finished, and the whisky will be done in October,” Tor Petter Christensen explains. He is the CEO at the newly constructed distillery Aurora Spirit at Årøybukt in Lyngen in northern Norway. The distillery takes its name from the aurora borealis, more commonly known as the northern lights. According to Christensen, the same goes for the distillery’s alcoholic beverage brand Bivrost. “Bivrost is an old Norse word used to describe the northern lights. It was believed to be a bridge between Asgard [heaven of the Norse Gods] and Midgard [Earth in Norse mythology],” Christensen says.

Aurora Spirit plans to make Bivrost gin, vodka, aquavit and whisky in its modern German-made still. The world’s northernmost distillery is built on a former NATO coastal fort from the

Cold War and stores its casks in cold tunnels once used for military purposes.

Christensen thinks the combination of cold climate and arctic ingredients will produce a unique Norwegian line of quality spirits. “Ingredients are sweeter in northern Norway because of the midnight sun. Arctic berries, grains and herbs will shape our products together with meltwater from glaciers. Our white spirits will be soft, but rich in taste, while our dark spirits will have similarities with products from the Highlands in Scotland,” says Christensen.

Scottish distilleries directly inspired the creation of Aurora Spirit. “We saw how distilleries shape the identity of local Scottish communities and attract tourism, and we wondered why we weren’t doing the same,” Christensen admits. He is now using Aurora Spirit’s

visitor centre and the official Bivrost website to actively promote the identity, culture and heritage of the Arctic.

“The people of northern Norway are extremely social, outgoing and fun, but we still have a way to go in telling that story to the world. That’s changing fast, and I’m very optimistic about the future,” the CEO concludes.

Do you have a story about northern Norway on one of these key themes?

- Northern lights - Legends - Folklore - Tales If so, you might get your story published on www.bivrost.com and receive compensation and gifts for your efforts.

For more information, please visit: www.auroraspirit.com or www.bivrost.com

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 67

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Hunting the light Chasing the northern lights is one of the most quintessential arctic adventures in Norway. But how do you get the best experience?

By Maria Lanza Knudsen | Photos: Dan Steinbakk

As autumn and winter approach and darkness falls, northern Norway awaits nature’s own festive lights, the aurora borealis. These multi-coloured streams of light decorate the sky and attract people from afar.

Dan Steinbakk, the owner of touring company Arctic Experience, runs tours from Tromsø from September to April. He prides himself on offering personalised tours for groups of up to eight people. The knowledgeable guide, who grew up under

the northern lights, guarantees the comfort of each guest by providing appropriate clothing and the enjoyment of the lights around a bonfire.

“You can experience four seasons and landscapes in one trip – from forests and the tundra to arctic snow-capped mountains and the ocean,” says Steinbakk.“There really is something magical about the landscape, especially with the autumn colours in addition to the beautiful colours in the sky!”

Arctic Experience’s focus on small groups allows Steinbakk to tailor the tour and ensure that guests get the best viewing of the beautiful lights. In addition to showcasing the magic in the sky, Arctic Experience has a unique handheld radio called a VLF receiver that allows you to listen to the spectacular natural phenomenon.

To capture the moment, Steinbakk always takes professional-quality photographs for guests to take home. Indeed, for avid photographers he even provides instructions on how best to capture the lights. Let the chase begin!

For more information, please visit: www.arcticx.no

Enjoy magical winter mountains riding a dog sleigh Norway Husky Adventure is a provider of local husky sledge tours in the Norwegian mountains. Based near Meråker at 400 metres above sea level, they are located a mere hour’s drive away from Trondheim Airport. “The company was founded in 2000 with the objective of sharing views of local natural beauty and high speed dog sleigh tours with others,” explains founder and manager Bodil Bakken. The team consists of Bodil, her partner and 45 active dogs from puppies to 12 years of age.

By Stian Sangvig | Photos: Bodil Bakken, Husky Adventure

Several packages are on offer. These include day trips and weekend trips for two people, school classes or corporate team-building groups as well as multiple-day tours just

for women. Families with children are also very welcome. Each sleigh will be pulled by four to six dogs. “Everyone can participate, as proper instructions on how to ride will

be provided,” Bakken says. Visitors can also choose not to participate in riding the sledges and enjoy the trips as spectators.

The winter season lasts from midNovember to mid-April, although some years extended days of cold and snow have allowed for trips as late as May. Adequate winter clothing will be provided, as will local food, including moose, reindeer and wild berries.

“Proper preparations allow for our visitors to truly enjoy snow-capped mountains basking in winter sun or moonlight, and preparing traditional Norwegian food heated over an open fire,” concludes Bakken.

Serving Norway’s third largest city, Trondheim’s airport is accessible from Europe with direct flights from hubs like London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen and Stockholm, as well as from most of Norway.

For more information, please visit: www.huskyadventure.no

68 | Issue 92 | September 2016

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Experience farm life tranquillity A few kilometres away from Lillehammer, far from all traffic and hustle, lies Skarsmoen Gård – an old farm in peaceful surroundings, offering guests tranquillity and the opportunity to take part in a real farm experience.

By Marte Eide | Photos: Skarsmoen Gård

With many different types of animals, big and small, including 25 dairy cows and 35 yearlings, several horses, some rabbits, two cats and two dogs, the owner of Skarsmoen Gård, Merethe Næsbø, certainly has plenty to keep her busy. “It is a lifestyle,” she says. “I moved here in 2013 with an urge to start a new life, and it’s been a steep learning curve but I have enjoyed it immensely.” When she bought the farm it came with bed & breakfast facilities with seven rooms in the main building, as well as six cabins, which she rents out to visitors. “I think the variety in accommodation options is good,” says Næsbø, who also serves hot drinks inside a traditional ‘lavvu’, creating a very special atmosphere.

The close proximity from Skarsmoen Gård to mountains such as Hafjell and Kvitfjell provides excellent skiing and hiking opportunities. “You have plenty of different options throughout the different seasons,” says Næsbø. “Bicycles are

a long hike in the surrounding mountains can also lead you to lakes offering fishing opportunities. Whatever the occasion, the tranquillity surrounding Skarsmoen Gård is a must for anyone seeking mindfulness and relaxation.

also available to rent for those who wish to go for a ride. The longest roundtrip is about eight kilometres.”

The quiet environment makes it the perfect place for an unforgettable holiday. “It is an ideal place for families who wish to experience something different. Families often come back year after year as their kids love being with the animals and taking part in the morning care of them,” says Næsbø and explains that children can take part in a range of activities during their stay. “The most popular one is probably the horse rides,” she says, “especially because this area is so child friendly – there is no traffic passing through, which makes it completely safe.”

Skarsmoen Gård also facilitates courses and conferences. “There are no disturbing elements here,” says Næsbø, “which makes you really present in the current moment.” If you are in the mood,

Owner Merethe Næsbø. Photo: Ingri Juvstad

For more information, please visit: www.skarsmoen.no

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 69

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Left: Olav Magne Strømsholm, CEO and captain at the Norwegian dive centre Strømsholmen, takes tourists on three and six-day killer whale safaris on the boat MS Sula. Photo: Pierre Robert de Latour. Right: In spite of their name, killer whales – often called orcas – belong to the oceanic dolphin family and do not have an appetite for humans. The Norwegian dive centre Strømsholmen started swimming with them in 1992. Photo: Nils Aukan

Swim with the killer whales The Norwegian dive centre Strømsholmen was among the first on the planet to swim and dive with killer whales. Since then, it has allowed tourists to take part in this thrilling experience – and much more.

can read their signals and recognise them like fingerprints, but always keep an open mind to learn something new,” Strømsholm assures.

By Eirik Elvevold

“Our crew has been in the water with them around 10,000 times and it’s never been a problem. The name killer whale can be misleading, as they don’t like to eat humans, but being that close still gets the adrenaline pumping,” says Strømsholmen CEO Olav Magne Strømsholm. Ever since Strømsholm saw the TV series Flipper as a child, he has been addicted to diving. In 1981, he decided to turn his passion into a business when he established the dive centre Strømsholmen right next to the world famous Atlantic Ocean Road on the Norwegian west coast. “A decade later, in 1992, I guided the first tourists as they jumped in with the whales. We give a security briefing on how to behave in the water, which is all the training you 70 | Issue 92 | September 2016

need to rent a dry suit, mask and swim feet and swim alongside the amazing mammals,” Strømsholm says.

The Norwegian also works as captain on the 91-foot-long MS Sula, taking tourists on three and six-day trips to find the killer whales feasting on herring along the coast. On board is a tight-knit crew so experienced they can literally cooperate without talking. Both captain and crew are passionate about sharing their vast knowledge with the guests through lessons offered on the boat.

“They’re highly intelligent and socially complex animals, and it’s important to know something about them before you go into the water. My crew knows killer whales like other people know dogs. We

In addition to the whale safari, Strømsholmen offers curious divers a range of activities such as fishing, skiing and kiting. You will find everything you need, from equipment and accommodation to an authentic divers’ pub – and, of course, the necessary expert advice on where to dive. “The clean water and powerful tidal currents make diving here very attractive. You can dive in the deep fjords, dive with seals or to various shipwrecks at different depths – everything from Second World War army ships to modern fishing vessels,” Strømsholm says.

For more information, please visit: www.stromsholmen.no

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Photo: Explore the Arctic

Photo: Explore the Arctic

Photo: Léon Fuchs

Shortcut to serenity In Lauklines Kystferie’s cosy fisherman cabins, you can get close to nature right outside the city. The environmentally friendly family business personally connects you to the best local activity providers, so that you can make the most of your precious time in the Arctic.

dancing around the mountain peaks in all different shapes and formations – it never gets old,” Nilsen says.

By Eirik Elvevold

“Most of our guests arrive in Tromsø by plane. 30 minutes later, after crossing over the Sandnessund Bridge to the island of Kvaløya and passing through a tiny mountain pass we like to call ’Little Chamonix’, they arrive here at Lauklines right next to the fjord,” Andreas Nilsen explains. Together with his wife, Nilsen runs the small family business Lauklines Kystferie offering comfortable selfcatering accommodation in traditional fisherman cabins – or ’rorbuer’, as they are called in Norwegian. “We are focused on making your stay comfortable, but we’ll also hook you up with the most professional local activity providers. They can help answer your questions and tailor fishing, skiing, dog sledding and boat trips to your needs,” Nilsen assures.

Lauklines was once a traditional trading post established by Nilsen’s grandfather, a herring fisher gone merchant, in 1929. Today, after major

renovation and modernisation, six warm and cosy fisherman cabins stand ready to house tourists searching for the very best experiences in northern Norway.

“Various fish and bird species can be found right outside the door. The herring, once a livelyhood for my grandfather, attracts whales all the way into the fjords. For those who’ve been longing to see whales, it’s almost a religious moment,” Nilsen says.

In spite of its proximity to Tromsø, Lauklines is located far from sound, light and air pollution. That makes it ideal for watching the northern lights. If you stay for three days or longer, you are almost guaranteed to see the natural spectacle on the dark winter sky – especially if you book a local guide. “The northern lights are truly majestic. I grew up with them, but it’s still magical to be there when tourists experience them for the first time. The flaming colours,

Photo: Léon Fuchs

FACTS ABOUT THE FISHERMAN CABINS AT LAUKLINES: - Total area of 100 square metres - Three bedrooms with a total of six beds - Large outside terrace - Two floors - Electric heating - Fully equipped kitchen - Dining room - Sauna - TV lounge - Free Wi-Fi - Allergy friendly

For more information, please visit: www.lauklines.no

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 71

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Left: GLØD Explorer guides you across Norway’s largest plateau, Finnmarksvidda. You will be sleeping in mountain cabins and in a shared tent along the way. Photo: Per Arne Askeland. Right: GLØD Explorer’s skiing expeditions across Finnmarksvidda are ranked among the world’s top five ski treks by Forbes Travel Guide. Photo: Trygve Nygård / www.glodexplorer.no

Skiing across Finnmarksvidda

– Europe’s last wilderness Picture yourself arriving at a mountain cabin to a nice dinner prepared with local ingredients such as king crab or reindeer, a glass of wine and a sauna after skiing for a whole day in pristine snow. With the help of GLØD Explorer’s passionate guides, you can ski across Norway’s largest plateau and hunt the northern lights.

By Eirik Elvevold

The Norwegian word ’glød’ is synonymous with the English word ’glow’. For the experienced guides working at GLØD Explorer, the word represents both the vibrant northern lights, dancing in the sky above them, and their inner passion for nature-based adventures. In 2007, GLØD was the first company in the Alta region of Finnmark to hunt down the northern lights together with tourists.

The pioneers are now operating out of the modern GLØD headquarters right outside Alta, where they head out on all types of arctic adventures, including skiing and fatbiking, on Norway’s largest plateau of Finnmarksvidda.

“In my opinion, crossing Finnmarksvidda on cross-country skis is the most exotic skiing experence in Norway. I get goosebumps just thinking about how it feels to ascend a ridge and see a Sami 72 | Issue 92 | September 2016

family herding their reindeer on the vast, snow-covered plains,” says Trygve Nygård, general manager and owner of GLØD Explorer. Like the other guides in his company, Nygård has grown up with a close relationship to nature. “Alta opens the gate to Finnmarksvidda with all its opportunities. The stable climate, which creates optimal conditions for seeing the northern lights, makes the city an oasis in Finnmark, in Norway and the world,” Nygård says.

GLØD Explorer’s skiing expeditions on Finnmarksvidda, ranked among the world’s top five ski treks by Forbes Travel Guide, last between four and 11 days. You should know how to ski before signing up, but the expeditions are far from uncompromising. The equipment is top of the line, the huskies pulling your sledge are well trained and the guides

are what Nygård likes to call “empathetic experts”. The shortest expedition lasts four days, while the longest stretches from the Finnish border town of Kilpisjärvi in the east to the Barents Sea out west.

“On our tours, you’ll be staying both in mountain cabins – with a sauna – and in a shared tent. Regardless, we like to eat and drink well. The feeling you get when you crawl into the warm tent and enjoy a good meal, maybe even something nice in the glass – the contrast makes it all so much better,” Nygård concludes.

TYPICAL GLØD ADVENTURES ARE: - Ski expeditions: four, six, eight or 11 days - Hunting for the northern lights - Fatbike tours - Snowshoeing including moose safari - Mountain biking - Canoeing and kayaking

For more information, please visit: www.glodexplorer.no or send an email to post@glodexplorer.no

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

Home of the husky Trasti & Trine takes you on a journey through the breathtaking nature of Finnmark, where you will fall in love with huskies and discover new arctic tastes. But beware: it might be hard to leave.

By Eirik Elvevold | Photos: Trasti & Trine

“Imagine waking up to homemade bread with jam from the forest outside, followed by a bunch of loving huskies kick-starting your day,” says Trine Lyrek.

She makes up half the duo behind Trasti & Trine, a Norwegian eco-certified family business offering both dog sledding trips and authentic, local cuisine. “We take care of every detail to make you feel at home and connect with the surrounding nature,” says Lyrek.

Guests staying at their newly built lodge, located by the Alta River only ten kilometres from the city of Alta in Finnmark, are guaranteed to connect with the 40 huskies living right outside – especially

after receiving a card with the name of ‘their’ dog. Lyrek knows a thing or two about creating love at first sight between dogs and humans, being instantly addicted to dog sledding as a teenager and passionate about it ever since.

“My dogs are social and friendly athletes, capable of playing with guests as well as participating in races like Iditarod and Finnmarksløpet. If the guests’ first encounter feels safe and fun, many of them will want to help out with taking care of the huskies before and during the trips. We have many guests coming back simply to meet their four-legged friends again,” Lyrek says.

The other half of the duo is chef Johnny Trasti. He cooks for the guest lodge and the cosy Stengelsengården, a refurbished fish lodge 400 metres up the river, and offers guests a range of culinary courses with focus on the surrounding nature.

“In Finnmark, I’ve been able to create food from the world’s purest and best produce, which has grown and lived on the mountain plateau, in the sea and the surrounding forests,” Trasti says.

TRASTI & TRINE’S DOG SLEDDING TRIPS: - A taste of dog sledding - Day trip dog sledding - Family adventure - Dog sledding and hunting the northern lights - Three, four and five-day trips - Ten-day expedition (only for the very experienced) TRASTI & TRINE’S CULINARY COURSES: - Lunch course in nature’s kitchen - Two-day game cooking course - Private course - Two evenings of seasonal tastes - Three dishes in five hours

For more information, please visit: www.trastiogtrine.no

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 73

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Norway

The fjord hotel of your dreams

Photo: Arne Nicholai Schram Simonsen

Fjærland Fjordstove Hotel & Restaurant, located right on the banks of the Sognefjord, offers local food and fine dining with a view across one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

By Eirik Elvevold

“I’ve always dreamt of running a small, white Norwegian fjord hotel. I had to paint it white myself, but my dream really came true,” says Bård Huseby. When he found the hotel he was searching for in Fjærland, a small Norwegian farming town located on an upper branch of the UNESCOprotected Sognefjord, he sold everything and established Fjærland Fjordstove Hotel & Restaurant. The picturesque hotel offers visitors a peaceful and intimate sanctuary in the midst of extreme nature. “You can literally taste the surrounding nature in our locally produced food. I shoot the deer and brew the beer myself,” Huseby says.

By booking one of the hotel’s 14 rooms, you will be living in close proximity to the

Jostedal Glacier – the largest glacier in continental Europe – and the Norwegian Glacier Museum, the Norwegian Book Town and a cluster of activity providers offering everything from peaceful kayaking on the fjord to exhilarating glacier walks. According to Huseby, the nature simply cannot dissapoint you. “Fjærland is constantly changing. The amazing mountains and gorgeous fjord stay where they are, but the place feels different depending on the time of day, weather and season,” Huseby says.

Photo: Freya Berwick

For more information, please visit: www.fjaerlandhotel.com

Experience the Arctic like a VIP The father and daughter running activity provider Tromsø Friluftsenter grew up in the Arctic and treat every new guest as part of the family. With north Norwegian hospitality and vast local knowledge, they welcome you to experience the region’s natural wonders.

By Eirik Elvevold | Photos: Fredrik Broms, www.hvalid.no

“Visitors will get a warm and personal experience of north Norwegian culture as well as the wild animals and impressive landscapes surrounding us,” says Trine Risvik. Together with her father, Risvik runs the activity provider Tromsø Friluftsenter based in Risvika on the island of Kvaløya outside Tromsø, where their family has survived on fishing and farming for generations. “When the traditional way of life was no longer viable, my dad had to think things through. He looked up at the northern lights and decided to help tourists experience the same beauty that he was blessed with. The goal was never to become the biggest centre in Tromsø, but to create a welcoming and friendly place to which 74 | Issue 92 | September 2016

people want to return time and time again,” Risvik says.

Tromsø Friluftsenter intentionally focuses on smaller groups to keep things authentic and sustainable. This will seem obvious when you sit around the fireplace

listening to local tales and stories or go to visit a century-old fishing farm. The family business also works closely with marine biologists, who teach guests about the area’s spectacular marine wildlife while they are heading out on whale safaris in rigid-inflatable boats (RIB) or on the charming vessel Colin Archer. “The open RIB boats are constructed to cross the Atlantic and are perfect for whale safaris.

They take you closer to both animals and the elements and handle the waves even better than a big boat,” Risvik says.

For more information, please visit: www.tromso-friluftsenter.no

W

S IN AU pecia TE TU l Th R M e IN EX N me: FI PE AN NL R D AN IEN D CE S

Photo: Markus Killi

Photo: VisitFinland.com

Photo: Harri Tarvainen

Photo: Markus Killi

The magical, mythical Finnish winter Northernmost Finland is above the Arctic Circle, so the sun does not rise for a month or more during winter, with just a few hours of twilight around noon. This polar night is called ‘kaamos’ in Finnish, pronounced a bit like ‘calm us’.

By By Pia Kaipainen, editor in chief of VisitFinland.com

Finnish Lapland is as close to a winter wonderland as you can get. Contrasts are a key factor in the allure of Lapland, where 24-hour sunlight in the summer replaces the dark winter days. The hustle and bustle of towns and ski resorts is just minutes away from the peace and quiet of the wild wilderness.

The ski centres also offer various opportunities for activities such as husky and reindeer rides, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, fat biking, cross-country skiing and ice fishing. After a long day spent outdoors, a steaming sauna

followed by lounging in front of the fireplace is just about right for your own private piece of the magic.

The thrill of witnessing the aurora borealis is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. Finland is one of the best places on Earth to spot the northern lights, which appear on more than 200 nights a year in Finnish Lapland.

Autumnal wellbeing from Finnish forests The Finnish summer ends with an explosion of colour in the forests. This

is the season known as ‘ruska’, when the autumnal reds, browns and yellows are especially beautiful on the fells of Lapland. September is also a popular time for trekking in northern Finland.

Autumn is probably the most enjoyable season in the forest. This is when nature offers mushrooms, berries and wonderful fresh air as we gather the gifts of the forest. It is also a time of silence – a time to step back and calm down. It is a time for hiking in clean, crisp air and colourful surroundings, waiting for the winter to arrive.

For more information, please visit: www.visitfinland.com

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 75

Left: Guide Emilia Tuomi with huskies. Photo: Ming Lee. Right: Photo: Tiina Salonen/Aurora Holidays

A peaceful retreat and aurora borealis gazing In the Finnish Lapland’s beautiful, wild and peaceful nature lies Utsjoki – the European Union’s northernmost town. Aurora Holidays offers guests an idyllic setting for a different kind of adventure, complete with a private cottage, where the evenings are committed to spotting the magical light shows provided by planet Earth’s magnetic fields.

By Ndéla Faye

Owners Tiina Salonen and Mika Länsman, along with their friend Emilia Tuomi, started running their northern lights spotting holiday tour, Aurora Holidays, last year. The couple rents out cottages for five-night stays where visitors get to experience the magic of the northern lights. Utsjoki is a unique village, located by the River Teno, right on the border between Finland and Norway. It has a population of just over 1,200, so visitors will surely enjoy plenty of untouched nature and wild, peaceful scenery surrounded by the fells. “We’ve lived here 76 | Issue 92 | September 2016

all our lives, so we know the area like the back of our hands and can offer our guests a personalised experience and introduction to Lapland’s beautiful nature and traditions,” Salonen says.

Your very own wooden cabin in Lapland The four identical self-catering cottages can fit up to six people each – and they are all kitted out with all the latest amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, heating, access to Wi-Fi and a sauna. In addition, the cottages have an outside terrace that faces north, making it the perfect spot

to wind down for the evening and enjoy the light show that is the aurora borealis.

“With us, guests don’t need to chase auroras – we have extensive knowledge of the best places to spot them. There’s minimal light pollution, so when the skies are clear there’s a very good chance that our guests will get to see the lights,” says Salonen.

“Everyone who visited us last winter got to see the northern lights – and we’ll do everything in our power to ensure that our guests make the most out of their visit,” she adds.

A holiday tailored for you When guests first arrive at Ivalo airport, the hosts will collect them and bring them to a supermarket to stock up on food and drink for the holiday. At least three nights are spent gazing at the northern lights.

On the coldest nights, there is an outdoor

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Finland

gazebo where guests can keep warm by a cosy fire and enjoy food while waiting for the light show to begin. “Since the yard outside our cottages is a prime spot for viewing the northern lights, visitors just need to step outside to enjoy the colourful skies,” says Salonen. During the day, visitors are free to explore the surrounding nature or partake in a number of activities: from snow shoe walking and snowmobile trips to a husky ride to Tana Bru in Norway.

From November until the end of January, Utsjoki plunges into the polar night when the sun does not rise above the horizon – although this does not mean that it is pitch black outside. “During the polar night, the sun is reflected off the surrounding snowy fells, so despite it being quite dim guests can still see in front of them without a lamp,” Salonen assures, laughing.

Conversely, during the summer months the sun does not set below the horizon.

Although the aurora borealis is visible only during the winter, Aurora Holidays takes bookings throughout the year. “The autumn is spectacular here, during the ‘ruska’¸ when all the leaves turn various shades of red and brown – it’s a truly beautiful view,” says Salonen. Off-season activities include salmon fishing, hiking, cycling and kayaking in the summer, and berry and mushroom picking in the nearby forests. “Although our primary focus is on aurora borealis gazing, we’re able to accommodate visitors’ wishes and tailor their holiday to suit their needs,” she adds. “As we’re a small family business, we can be completely flexible.”

The holiday also includes a trip to the Utsjoki village, where visitors will get to buy local handicraft and go on the Sámi

Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge between Finland and Norway’s borders. “As we’re local to the area, we want tourists to be able to experience the authentic life of the northernmost municipality in Finland.

Utsjoki is a Sámi commune, where Sámi culture is still strong. Our family is a reindeer herder family and we want to share our knowledge of Sámi culture,” says Salonen. “When guests come here, they can relax and leave their everyday stresses behind. There’s no traffic, noise, pollution or crowds of people here, and people can enjoy the stunning nature and quietness. Our visitors aren’t part of a huge group of tourists, so we’re able to provide them with a unique experience and welcome them into our home.”

For more information, please visit: www.auroraholidays.net

Above left: During the autumn ‘ruska’¸ all the leaves turn various shades of red and brown. Photo: Emilia Tuomi/Aurora Holidays. Above right: View of River Teno as seen from the fells. Photo: Tiina Salonen/Aurora Holidays. Left: Owners Tiina Salonen and Mika Länsman wearing traditional Sámi clothing, called gákti. Photo: Paadar Images.

Right: Warm drink by a fire in the gazebo. Photo: Emilia Tuomi/Aurora Holiday

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 77

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Finland

Lapland’s hidden jewels The Lampivaara Amethyst Mine is one of Lapland’s treasures – and the mine’s interesting history, unique geology and mystical folklore make it a great destination for the whole family. Located at the top of a fell, the mine’s stunning views add to the experience – and visitors can try their luck at finding a gemstone of their own to keep!

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Kati Sandberg

Surrounded by the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, the amethyst found on the Lampivaara fell was born two billion years ago, making it some of the oldest amethyst in the world. There are many stories in the area dating back to the 16th century, which state the presence of a large gemstone deposit nearby. “Not only are we the world’s northernmost amethyst mine, we’re also the only active amethyst mine in Europe,” says Timo Seppälä, managing director at Lampivaara Amethyst Mine. “What sets us apart is that we don’t use any machinery, chemicals or water pools at the mine. There’s no noise, dust or pollution here; the mine is a national treasure and the mining we do is environmentally friendly,” he adds.

Sustainability and responsible mining are at the core of Lampivaara Amethyst Mine’s values and none of the amethyst is 78 | Issue 92 | September 2016

many tales and legends surrounding the gemstone – it is said to store positive energy and bring joy to its carrier. This is a unique place, full of positive energy – perhaps as a result of the large quantities of ancient amethysts steeped in the bedrock,” Seppälä concludes.

sold as raw material elsewhere; instead it is mainly used in jewellery made in Lapland. “We want to develop the mine as a destination for visitors to enjoy – we want people to really experience the mine and its beautiful surroundings,” says Seppälä.

The mine is open throughout the year to the public, and the surrounding nature offers a picturesque setting for visits both in winter and in summer.

During the winter months, visitors can travel to the mine on a special heated snow train, the Amethyst Pendolino, which takes guests to the top of the Lampivaara fell to enjoy the stunning views expanding over the national park. During their visit, guests will learn about the history and geology of the area – and they will get to dig for their own amethyst to keep as a souvenir. “Amethyst is believed to have some mystical powers, and there are

For more information, please visit: www.amethystmine.fi

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn and Winter Experiences in Finland

Time travel to a magical world Throw yourself into an unforgettable experience where humans and nature become one and time stands still. Open all year round, experience park Elves Hideaway offers its guests a peaceful retreat as well as activities delving into Lapland’s stories, culture and nature – what more could you ask for?

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Tonttula/Elves Hideaway

Elves Hideaway, located eight kilometres from Levi in Finland, consists of Taivaanvalkeat, a lodge hotel, and Elves Hideaway itself. “We’re an experience village: as soon as guests arrive in our courtyard, they’re able to relax and switch off from the stress in their everyday lives.

There are no street lights or commitments in Elves Hideaway, just happiness and peace,” says producer Sanna Törmi.

Storytelling, imagination and playfulness are a big part of Elves Hideaway. “Local traditions and culture are explored through the medium of stories. It’s a great way for kids to learn and play, and for adults to throw themselves into the elves’ magical worlds,” Törmi explains. Activities at the

experience village include guided walks in the forest and several elves’ workshops and houses.

The lodge hotel, Taivaanvalkeat, has 13 rooms and four separate country lodges that offer a cosy and warm setting. “The rooms have been decorated with a unique touch: it feels a bit like a granny’s house,” Törmi laughs. Guests can also explore Finnish sauna traditions at the beach sauna, located on the riverbank of the Ounas River.

“This is a truly beautiful, peaceful retreat, where Lapland’s magic is tangible.”

For more information, please visit: www.lapintonttula.fi

Rooms with a view With breathtaking views over the Ruka fell, Chalet Ruka Peak is an exclusive boutique hotel that offers guests high-quality accommodation and activities tailored to guests’ needs. Located a few steps from popular ski slopes, the hotel is a great location for business, conference and holiday travellers searching for an elegant luxury retreat.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Paavo Hamunen

The hotel’s autumn season kicks off this month, just in time for guests to enjoy ‘ruska’, when tree leaves take on various shades of red. “Our rooms boast large windows overlooking the fantastic scenery of the northern wilderness. Some lucky guests might even catch the aurora borealis or reindeer roaming free nearby,” says Hannu Kuusiniemi, owner of Ruka Peak. The main season starts in November, and guests are able to ski in and out of the hotel directly onto the ski slopes. The hotel’s main building has six double rooms and two exclusive suites, while the separate Alpine-style luxury chalets nearby are suitable for private hire.

“Restaurant Peak serves fresh ingredients supplied by small, local

producers. Our menu focuses on game and fish, seasoned with a lot of passion,” says Kuusiniemi. The restaurant’s wine cellar, perfect for candle-lit dinners, also offers a large selection of world wines.

To top it all off, the hotel’s Sauna World boasts a smoke sauna, an outdoor Jacuzzi and a spa, complete with various pampering treatments. “We can tailor activities according to guests’ needs, and this is a great spot for visitors to have a perfect winter wonderland experience in a picturesque setting,” Kuusiniemi concludes.

For more information, please visit: www.rukapeak.fi

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 79

Scan Magazine | Business | Keynote

Scan Business Keynote 80 | Tribute to Annika Goodwille 82 | Business Profile 83 | Business Calendar 86 | Conference of the Month 87

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The real leadership lesson from Gladiator

By Steve Flinders

I was recently tickled by the moment in Interstellar when the youthful scientist played by Jessica Chastain shouts “Eureka!” after solving the gravitational equation that will save humankind: a nice connection between 21st century Hollywood and the third century BC Syracuse of genius mathematician Archimedes.

Another great movie connection with the classical world, this time for managers, is Gladiator. But I’m not thinking of Russell Crowe. Google ‘Gladiator leadership lessons’ and the amount of stuff that comes up is overwhelming (sample: “Gladiators prepare for battle 24 hours a day”) but none of the entries mention my real hero in the film, the ageing Emperor Marcus Aurelius – he who gets smothered by his nasty son Commodus early on.

I am not a big fan of management books; Robert Townsend’s Up the Organisation (1970), short, pithy and iconoclastic, generally does fine for me. But I also treasure the Meditations of the real Marcus Aurelius. Marcus Aurelius was a Stoic, the original servant-leader. As he travelled the bounds of the Roman Empire between 170 and 180 AD, he kept a diary; not for publication but as a tool for self-understanding and reflection – a key attribute and key practice respectively for 80 | Issue 92 | September 2016

any successful manager. Marcus Aurelius prized truthfulness, realism and honesty and used these qualities as yardsticks for measuring his own performance and that of others. He is brief, concise and modest and, although the whole book is only a bit more than a hundred pages long, you can also dip into it at random and always find something wise and helpful, especially when the going is rough.

There is no room here for quotations except one I particularly like: “The secret

of all victory is in the organisation of the non-obvious.” Read Marcus Aurelius. His steady, supportive voice speaks to us still across the centuries.

Steve Flinders is a freelance trainer, writer and coach, based in Malta, who helps people develop their communication and leadership skills for working internationally: steveflind@aol.com.

Scan Magazine | Business | Tribute to Annika Goodwille

Annika Goodwille remembered

By Beatrice Bondy-Engström, chairman of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK | Photo courtesy of Goodwille Limited

When the news reached us that Annika Goodwille had passed away, there was a sense of disbelief and profound loss among the Swedish community, including the Swedish Chamber and the Swedish Church. Annika Goodwille had a strong personality and was full of life and beauty, with a strong impact on those who met her. Annika was one of the most popular and colourful members of the Council of the Swedish Chamber and also of the Swedish community.

Annika left Sweden as a young woman and her sense of adventure and curiosity took her to France, Switzerland, the US and Iran, where she met her husband Angus. Later on she spent a few years with her husband in Dubai, when it was still a small town in the desert.

Annika loved to talk about her time in Iran and in particular a story she told me when we first met, about when she met the late Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme. It was in 1981, when Olof Palme was visiting Tehran to take part in negotiations in the war between Iran and Iraq. As they were leaving the capital to fly back to Stockholm, Annika, who worked at the Swedish Embassy at the time, received a phone call from Stockholm with an urgent message to stop the Prime Minister from flying back as their plane was under threat of being shot down. She managed to catch him in his hotel. She liked to say that this is how she saved the life of Olof Palme.

I met Annika in 1989 when we were both stay-at-home mothers. She was busy looking after three lively small boys but was restless and thinking of what the next step in her life would be. A few years later a fourth boy was born, making her house even more boisterous, full of life and happiness.

Her next step was to enrol in college to study to become a “company secretary”.

She used to laugh, saying that she was not a secretary but helped companies with 82 | Issue 92 | September 2016

legal and taxations issues. She quickly set up her own company, Goodwille Ltd, in 1997, which grew rapidly. She helped many Swedish companies coming to the UK as start-ups or subsidiaries with the nitty-gritty of setting up in the UK. She was very generous with her advice, which went far beyond understanding UK laws and regulations.

Annika always insisted that it was difficult to get to know and understand the British people and their way of doing business.

To know the language was not enough, Swedes had to immerse themselves in British culture and language sensitivities, understand that “interesting” should not always be taken at face value and instead could mean “terrible” or “with potential”.

Despite spending over 30 years outside her homeland she never lost her accent from Skåne when she spoke Swedish.

Born Annika Åman, she was very proud of her origins and of Landskrona, where she was born and raised. Her father had been a successful entrepreneur who instilled in her a sense of independence.

She was always self-reliant and original in her thoughts.

One aspect that is maybe less known outside the Chamber is that Annika was a

philanthropist. She helped several causes in the UK and internationally. She was always looking for new projects to support and we had many discussions on social enterprises and charities.

Ten years ago, Annika successfully battled a first cancer, while looking after her husband Angus who was also ill. In her last decade, Annika never lost her smile and curiosity of the world and people. Her greatest joy was to spend a lot of time and holidays with her four grown-up sons.

On behalf of the Swedish Chamber of Commerce to the UK, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Alexander, Nicholas, Marcus and Oskar.

We will always keep the memory of your mother alive.

Annika’s family has set up a fundraising page for a cause that was particularly close to her heart, The Microloan Foundation, aiming to enable women in Africa to set up businesses to help work themselves out of poverty.

If you would like to make a donation, please visit: www.mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/annikaaman-goodwille

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | EiQ Energy Intelligence

By optimising companies’ energy efficiency subsidies within IT, co-owner Kristian Ferdinand (left) and director Torben Lytzen make it more profitable to become greener.

Get your IT energy savings subsidised Most companies know that changes such as new windows and heating systems fall within the category of energy optimising investments, which are significantly subsidised in Denmark. Many, however, are not aware that the same goes for new IT systems. With an in-depth knowledge of both IT and the energy sector, EiQ Energy Intelligence has set forth to change that and help companies optimise their energy efficiency subsidy.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: EiQ Energy Intelligence

With a background in IT and a strong network within the energy sector, director Torben Lytzen and co-owner Kristian Ferdinand had no doubt that they were on to something when they set up EiQ in 2015. Since then, the business has successfully helped companies reclaim around ten to 20 per cent of their IT investments in energy efficiency subsidies. “There are other consultancies that offer to help companies with their energy efficiency subsidies, but not that many are familiar with the process when it comes to IT. One of our advantages is that we are very close to the whole process in our work – we work with IT providers and makers and have an indepth understanding of their work,” says Ferdinand, who is responsible for the

technical consultation for companies wishing to upgrade their IT systems.

Meanwhile, Lytzen takes care of the negotiations with the energy companies responsible for disbursing the subsidies.

Thanks to his strong network and close dialogue with the companies, subsidies can be paid out just 14 days after the client submits the final documentation.

“When it comes to the disbursement to our clients, we take great pride in making sure that they get it as soon as possible,” stresses Lytzen.

For IT resellers, EiQ’s service means that when a client considers changing a server system to improve their data processing for instance, the trader can

pinpoint another mostly overlooked advantage, namely the energy savings and the entailed subsidy. “Consulting with us, the IT provider can discuss more aspects of the deal, such as running costs, comparisons on the old and new platform and the total cost when deducting the expected subsidy,” says Ferdinand and rounds off: “Our combined strength is Torben’s connections to the energy companies and my technological background; together we can offer both the knowledge and the network essential to securing the best possible subsidy.”

Not everyone knows it, but IT improvements can provide great energy savings and thus qualify for significant subsidies in Denmark.

For more information, please visit: www.eiq.dk

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 83

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | Marel

Henrik Ladefoged in front of a Marel RoboBatcher, which packs more than 300 products per minute.

‘Our vision is a world where affordable quality food is produced sustainably’ Marel, a leading global provider of food processing systems, is determined to achieve a more sustainable food industry. The company, which has one of its major research and development sites in Denmark, delivers advanced processing systems for fish, poultry and meat all over the world. Scan Magazine spoke to Henrik Ladefoged, director of Marel Denmark.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Marel

As the world’s population continues to grow, so does the need for more efficient use of resources and new methods to optimise how we utilise animal protein.

One way of doing this is by increasing the consumable part of products when preparing and packaging fish, poultry and meat products. As a leading global provider of food processing systems, Marel has set out to do just that. “According to 84 | Issue 92 | September 2016

calculations we will be needing around 50 per cent more food in 2050 than now. And as developing countries increase their living standards, one of the first signs is the need for more animal protein. The challenge is that we don’t have more land to produce the extra meat,” explains Ladefoged. “One way of saving resources is to make more of the animal protein that is already produced, and that’s where we

come in. Our research and development departments are working hard to develop equipment that will get more out of the same raw material.”

While optimising the production chain may not be the most discussed subject when it comes to this global food challenge, it can actually make a significant difference. For instance, Marel has, through innovation, managed to utilise 20 per cent more filleted fish in the end product than earlier.

Sustainable food production Another key trend in the food industry today is that consumers want to know where and how the animal protein is produced. The issue of traceability and

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | Marel

reliability also plays a big role in Marel’s development activities within their industry. “Consumers demand to know where the animal protein they consume has been reared and what kind of life the animals have had. As a part of the food industry, we have to take that upon us and ensure that the animal protein we produce has been produced sustainably, respecting nature and the people who work with it. To me that’s a critical part of our global identity,” says Ladefoged.

An area that has been receiving much attention lately is the difference in the amount of resources used to produce

different types of animal protein. While chicken and fish are undoubtedly the most sustainable protein products (one kilogramme of salmon takes approximate two kilogrammes of feed to produce, while one kilogramme of beef takes approximately four times that), the popularity of animal protein is still on the rise in countries that have previously had a more vegetable and rice-based diet.

“A challenge we have to solve today is how to make the absolute most of the animal protein that is already produced, whether it is fish, chicken or meat. The same goes for electricity and water. As an actor within the food industry, we

truly value how important clean water is, and that’s why we want to save as much as possible. Of course it’s also about financial gain – everything in the food industry is about making as much profit as possible from the product – but, for once, this is an area where profit and a higher purpose coincide,” stresses Ladefoged and rounds off: “Our vision is a world where food is produced sustainably and affordably.”

For more information, please visit: www.marel.com

MAREL IN BRIEF: Marel has 600 employees in Denmark.

The company is opening a large modernised research and development centre in Aarhus, which will be completed in 2017.

The company has a large showroom close to Copenhagen Airport, where clients can see equipment and product demonstrations within Marel’s three industries: fish, poultry and meat.

Globally, Marel employs 4,700 people in 30 countries.

Top left: Marel’s equipment cuts with the take-off speed of a commercial jet and requires no human contact, thus increasing food safety. Right: Cod fillet yield has increased by a third since the 1980s, due to process and equipment efficiency of Marel’s advanced processing systems.

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 85

Scan Magazine | Business | Calendar

Scandinavian Business Calendar Innovation in biotech – what is the buzz really about today?

Biotechnology is more important today than ever before. It is an innovative driver tackling such diverse topics as major diseases, climate change and food security. But what is it really all about? Listen to multiple speakers reflect on past successes and failures in the field and discuss their vision in terms of biotechnology for the future.

Date: 26 September, 6pm–9.30pm Venue: Deutsche Bank, 1 Great Winchester St, London EC2N www.ducc.co.uk

Europe’s number one Enterprise IT event More than 100 exhibitors and many freeto-attend seminar sessions make IP EXPO Nordic a must-visit event in the IT world.

Covering six top IT technologies (cloud, cyber security, networks and infrastructure, data analytics, DevOps and open source), the event provides visitors with insights from across the industry. At the same time, major innovations 2_1_Nordfyns_Museum_Ad_1-4p_NEW_SIZE:Layout and developments will be outlined.

Dates: 27–28 September Venue: Waterfront Congress Stockholm, Sweden www.ipexponordic.com

By Thomas Schroers | Photo: DUCC

Centre,

Nordic Drinks in London Each month, members and friends of the Finnish, Danish and Norwegian Chambers of Commerce get together for Nordic Drinks.

This time, the event will take place at the premises of the company Perkbox, which transforms businesses into more productive and inspirational places to work. For the first 50 arrivals, a free drink is served.

Date: 29 September, 6pm–8pm Venue: Perkbox London, 22 Tudor Street, London EC4Y 0AY www.fbcc.co.uk

Leadership, the event will try to answer questions such as: What are the challenges facing a Swedish leader in the UK? How can we become better collaborators? How can you manage a local team?

Date: 7 October, 8.30am–2pm Venue: TBC www.scc.org.uk

Get into sustainable leadership A tailor-made event, this training course invites all Swedish leaders living and working in London and elsewhere in the UK. With from the 12:29 global consultancy 1input 26/7/12 2_0_Subscribe_Quarter Page 1 firm, Gaia page ad:Layout 1

Nordfyns Museum The history of the town of Bogense and North Funen, in words, artifacts, paintings and pictures.

Nordfyns Museum Vestergade 16, DK-5400 Bogense, Denmark Phone: +45 6481 1884 E-mail: nordmus@mail.tele.dk www.nordfynsmuseum.dk

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Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Denmark

Top left: Aalborg Congress and Culture Centre is located in the heart of Aalborg. Right: Aalborghallen, Aalborg Congress & Culture Centre’s largest hall, can seat up to 2,415 guests.

Conference of the Month, Denmark

‘Arranging a conference is much more than just the space’ With 40 meeting rooms, 14,000 square metres, and half a century’s experience in planning conferences, Aalborg Congress & Culture Centre is today one of Denmark’s most established congress centres. The centre, which is best known for its flexibility and qualified staff, is located in the heart of Aalborg.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Aalborg Congress & Culture Centre

Founded in 1953, Aalborg Congress & Culture Centre has spent decades refining and developing its events and meetings service. Whether it is a conference, meeting, congress or celebration, the centre and its dedicated team are committed to its success.

Tanja Markussen, head of meeting and conferences, says: “Our highly skilled team liaise with our guests and advise on how to ensure that we work efficiently to meet the demands of our guests. Arranging a conference is so much more than just the space, and since we have so many opportunities, we can create the perfect settings for any event.”

Aalborg Congress & Culture Centre can house events of up to 3,000 people with in-house catering (2,200 in one room) and, regardless of the size of the event, guests can enjoy a tailor-made experience. In the largest hall a movable wall ensures that events can be scaled up or down according to the number of guests.

“Thanks to the building’s numerous facilities, our surrounding park and our many square metres, we can offer our guests more than just a venue. For instance, we can arrange a meeting on the big stage of Aalborghallen, and for smaller groups it’s possible to combine a meeting with a concert, musical or other cultural events.

We can also arrange lunch in our large,

airy foyer with a view across our beautiful Kildeparken, where guests often enjoy a walk and a talk,” Markussen explains and rounds off: “Besides, we are equipped with modern, high-quality technical equipment as well as a highly skilled team of sound and lighting technicians.”

KEY FACTS: Aalborg Congress & Culture Centre is located five minutes from the city centre, ten minutes from Aalborg railway station and 15 minutes from Aalborg Airport by car.

Aalborg Congress & Culture Centre can cater for events from two to 3,000 guests (2,200 in one room).

The centre is within ten minutes walking distance of 1,500 hotel rooms.

For more information, please visit: www.akkc.dk

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 87

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Sweden

Hotel of the Month, Sweden

Top-rated favourite in Malmö Clarion Hotel & Congress Malmö Live reached the number one position on TripAdvisor just four months after opening. The hotel, complete with a sky bar and a Mexican taqueria, has since been a welcome addition to the southern Swedish city and appreciated by visitors and locals alike.

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Clarion Hotel & Congress Malmö Live

Last year in May, thousands of locals lined up to explore Malmö’s largest hotel.

Clarion Hotel & Congress Malmö Live has been open for little over a year, and it is time to check back in with CEO Jens Lyckman. “It has been a huge success and a really good year. Everyone here understands what Malmö Live is now.

But we still have that charm of novelty, so next year will be about achieving new goals. It is very exciting,” he says.

The hotel reached the top position in Malmö just four months after opening,

currently with a 4.5 in overall rating from over 1,000 TripAdvisor reviews. “We had a goal to reach the top by the end of 2015, but we went in as number one in September that same year. We are proud to have had that position for a year now,” says Lyckman, who personally responds to all guest feedback. “It is important that anyone who has an opinion or feelings about us, positive or negative, gets a reply. The important thing is that we are on our toes – there is nothing worse than not getting any feedback,” he says.

It is clear that Lyckman has no intention of slowing things down and the goal for the coming year is clear: it is going to be even better! “We have made a name for ourselves, but we now have to find more even resources and energy. The first year is pure adrenaline, but it is now time to focus and stay excited,” he says.

DID YOU KNOW? The restaurants – Kitchen & Table on the 25th floor and the informal Mexican Eatery Social Taqueria – have both been developed in close collaboration with Swedish celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson.

MALMÖ’S LARGEST HOTEL IN NUMBERS - 25 floors - Two minutes from Malmö central station - 444 rooms - 24 flexible conference rooms - 1,500 delegates in the second floor congress hall

For more information, please visit: www.clarionlive.se

88 | Issue 92 | September 2016

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Covering all your needs In April this year, Hotel Bredehus reopened its doors with three experienced and locally renowned people behind it. Since then the hotel has become hugely popular with tourists, businesses and locals, all of whom immerse themselves in the fantastic food, comfortable beds and family feel of the hotel.

it after a day at LEGOLAND and sellers and contractors have called it their home for a week or two. “We’ve become a part of the community and the locals have really embraced us,” says Riis.

By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Hotel Bredehus

Situated in the Danish town of Bredsten, the hotel offers the perfect breathing space in between a trip to LEGOLAND in Billund and exploring Vejle city centre.

Søren Riis, Jan Søgård and Mikkel Larsen have tried to create a “cosy, rural, family-driven hotel”, as Riis explains.

“All the families pitch in, we’ve got paintings Jan’s wife made and my wife helps Mikkel out in the kitchen. It’s a lifestyle so we want to make it as fun as we possibly can.” The hotel has space for 70 guests spread across 21 rooms and two holiday apartments, in addition to three function rooms and a restaurant with 60 covers.

Locally sourced Danish classics “This summer our supermarket has been the farm across the road,” explains Riis. The produce they use is as local as it

can be, with beer from the local brewery and cheese and butter from the local dairy. “We cook everything from scratch to make the most of these exceptional ingredients.”

Having chosen to focus on Danish and French classics, Hotel Bredehus has become hugely popular with tourists and locals. Every Sunday over 150 people sit down to devour the Danish Christmas classic flæskesteg (roast pork) with all the trimmings, even at the height of summer. All room rates also include a magnificent breakfast buffet, to fill you up for a day of exploring or working.

The future has much in store for Hotel Bredehus, including gourmet evenings, celebrity talks and finishing the last details of their conference facilities. It is a hotel in which you can relish the rural setting while enjoying a fantastic plate of food with your family, colleagues or significant other before heading upstairs for a good night’s sleep.

Impressive start and future plans Having been open for less than six months, the hotel has already made a huge impact. People have held their weddings there, families have relaxed in

For more information, please visit: www.hotel-bredehus.dk

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 89

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Finland

Hotel of the Month, Finland

Admire Lapland’s beautiful views from the top Boasting rooms with breathtaking views – as well as a luxury suite, voted one of the world’s top romantic spots – Hotel Iso-Syöte provides accommodation for all tastes and requirements. From husky safaris and mountain biking to snow mobile trips, there is a wealth of activities to guarantee guests an unforgettable holiday.

own cosy retreat in Lapland’s untouched wilderness, there are also 20 ‘kelo’ cottages, or log cottages, built in a traditional Finnish style – as well as 16 modern, luxurious Fjell Top Cottages available for group hire.

Lapland and enjoy the glorious views,” says Juha Kuukasjärvi, the hotel’s owner.

For guests looking for a different kind of dining experience, the hotel also boasts a Lappish ‘kota’, a traditional Sami hut, deep in the forest. “I prepare the food from fresh ingredients on an open fire and serve it on tables decorated with candles and reindeer pelts. We also have a traditional smoke sauna available for group bookings, so guests can enjoy a very old Finnish tradition,” Kuukasjärvi states.

Dinner with a twist

A romantic night under starlight

The hotel’s Restaurant Panorama serves local dishes in a unique setting. With a strong focus on serving local ingredients, reindeer, fish and berries regularly feature on the restaurant’s menu. “We take pride in our restaurant, where guests get to experience flavours of

Hotel Iso-Syöte is no stranger to awards: for three years running it has won the prize for Finland’s best boutique ski hotel in the World Ski Awards, and the hotel’s Eagle View suite was voted one of the world’s most romantic hotel rooms.

The suite, divided across two floors, is

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Hotel Iso-Syöte

Hotel Iso-Syöte is located within easy reach of three of Lapland’s main airports – Rovaniemi, Oulu and Kuusamo – and situated on the southernmost fell in Finnish Lapland. The hotel is surrounded by old spruce forests, making it the perfect location for activities such as cross-country skiing, hiking and mountain biking.

The hotel has 30 rooms with panoramic views overlooking the Syöte National Park’s forests and valleys. For guests wanting to explore the peacefulness of Lapland’s wilderness and enjoy their 90 | Issue 92 | September 2016

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Finland

located on top of the south corner of the hotel wing and has walls and a roof made of glass, opening up to a breathtaking 360-degree view over the surrounding hills, forest and skyline. The suite also features a cosy fireplace as well as a private sauna and Jacuzzi, making it the perfect spot for a romantic night in.

“The Eagle View Suite provides guests the chance to enjoy one-of-a-kind views and experience the midnight sun in the summer or fall asleep under starlight and the northern lights in the winter,” says Kuukasjärvi.

Tailored experiences As well as providing accommodation, Hotel Iso-Syöte also offers a number of activities, suitable for adults and children alike. “Due to our unique location, we’re able to provide plenty of options for activities: from snow mobile

and snowshoe adventures to reindeer and husky safaris in the winter and canoeing and trekking in the summer, for example,” says Kuukasjärvi. “We can also arrange day trips to nearby cities and towns. One of our day trips includes a visit to Lapland’s capital, Rovaniemi, where guests can visit Santa’s Village and learn about the area’s history, culture and nature at the Arktikum museum. We offer tailored services and activities for groups of up to 150 people.”

In the summertime, the hotel’s location provides ideal routes for mountain and road biking alike. “The Bike Hotel Concept, the first of its kind in Finland, is an all-inclusive service package that we offer to cyclists, which includes everything from bike servicing facilities and route planning to nutrition and relaxation,” says Kuukasjärvi. “I’m a keen

cyclist and want to share my expertise and passion for the sport with others.”

The Arctic Spa provides visitors with relaxing moments and a number of beauty treatments and massages. The facilities include a swimming pool, two saunas and an outdoor Jacuzzi. “This autumn, we’re opening more suites, all split across two floors with their own heated outdoor Jacuzzi,” Kuukasjärvi says. “We aim to provide a five-star experience and the perfect getaway for our guests. The accommodation, surroundings, nature and food are all part of the experience, and everything we do is tailored towards offering guests a truly memorable stay.”

For more information, please visit: www.experience-isosyote.fi

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 91

Scan Magazine | Family Hotel of the Month | Denmark

Hotel Fårup is located in the heart of the popular amusement park Fårup Sommerland.

Family Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Forest, amusement park and four-star hotel in one With the recent opening of the four-star Hotel Fårup, Fårup Sommerland, one of Denmark’s most popular amusement parks, is stepping up its game. Located inside the park in north Jutland, the forest-themed hotel gives families from near and far the chance to fully immerse themselves in Fårup Sommerland’s special atmosphere.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Hotel Fårup

With more than 600,000 visitors every year and a host of awards, including one as Europe’s second-best amusement park, a visit to Fårup Sommerland has become a summertime must for many families. Much like the park it is located in, Hotel Fårup is full of fun, forest features and friendly smiles. “What we’ve become known for is our beautiful forest-themed park, clean surroundings and a high service level, and that’s the experience we’ve strived to extend inside the hotel. We wanted to draw the park’s special atmosphere into the hotel and 92 | Issue 92 | September 2016

into the rooms, and from our visitors’ reviews we can see that we’ve really succeeded in this,” says director of Fårup Sommerland, Søren Kragelund, who founded the park 41 years ago. As an extra bonus, Hotel Fårup’s guests also have exclusive access to a number of selected rides 30 minutes before the park opens to other guests.

Always smiles When Fårup Sommerland was founded

by Søren Kragelund and his father in 1975, attractions included little more

than a few trampolines, horse rides and canoes. However, thanks to its innovative all-inclusive concept, the park quickly gained foothold. The concept, which remains the same today, means that once the visitor is inside the park all rides are free. Today, however, attractions include everything from huge water slides to adrenalin-inducing roller coasters and colourful toddler rides.

But the park’s success is not just due to the many exciting rides, but also the special service culture that saturates every nook and cranny of the park and the new hotel. “The reason we win so many prizes is that we have a 99 per cent visitor satisfaction, and we receive a lot of praise for our service. ‘Good enough’ is not good enough for us. Our goal is to be among the three best and most popular amusement

Scan Magazine | Family Hotel of the Month | Denmark

parks in Denmark, and the way to achieve this is to know your guests, make sure they’re happy and provide a unique service,” says Kragelund. To do this, in 2005 Fårup Sommerland created its own academy, Fårup Academy. The academy not only provides all of the amusement park’s 450 employees with training in customer service but also offers the training to other companies wishing to copy the famous Fårup service.

A hotel for all of the family The idea for Hotel Fårup originated when Kragelund visited Orlando and Disney World in the late ‘80s. He immediately scribbled down his vision on a napkin, but due to complications with the planning permission it took 27 years for

it to become reality. However, the timing turned out just right as Kragelund’s daughter, Kirsten Kragelund, now a 26-year-old architecture student, could be the one to fulfil her father’s vision by designing a forest-themed, fun and friendly family hotel.

Located next to a pretty lake, the new hotel is built in a traditional red and white timber style while the interior is characterised by a range of forest features, such as tree hut-inspired bunk beds, trees, bird song and even a real stuffed moose head in the restaurant. The hotel also offers a number of activities such as indoor and outdoor playgrounds as well as a conveniently located lounge and bar area, making for an enjoyable

stay for children and their parents alike.

“It’s obviously a children’s hotel, but we’ve also been very conscious about their parents, and the feedback we get is that our grown-up visitors enjoy the stay very much too. Even though we’ve got features such as the tree hut bunk beds, the interior design appeals to everyone; it’s done in an aesthetically very pleasing way with a lot of attention to detail. And, obviously, being a four-star hotel, there are certain standards with regards to the food and the wine we serve, and that’s also something we’ve had very positive feedback on,” stresses Kragelund. The positive feedback is also reflected on review sites such as TripAdvisor, which gives Fårup Hotel five stars, as well as an 82 per cent Net Promoter Score (NPS).

ABOUT HOTEL FÅRUP Guests at Hotel Fårup have free access to Fårup Sommerland.

The hotel has 51 rooms and a maximum capacity of 263 guests.

The hotel’s restaurant serves a buffetstyle breakfast and dinner and à la carte lunch.

Guests at the hotel have access to a number of selected rides 30 minutes before the park opens to other guests.

Top left and right: Like the amusement park it is located in, Hotel Fårup has a range of charming forest features, such as a real moose head in the restaurant and tree hut-like bunk beds. Below: The recent opening of Hotel Fårup was, of course, attended by Fårup Sommerland’s two mascots: the hedgehog and the squirrel.

For more information, please visit: www.faarupsommerland.dk

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 93

Scan Magazine | Inn of the Month | Denmark

Photo: VisitVestsjælland

Inn of the Month, Denmark

Authentic inn with idyllic surroundings Since the 14th century, the people of Reersø have been fiercely committed to their independence and community. Throughout the centuries, the islanders avoided the fires, influences and changes that blew through the rest of Denmark, leaving the well-maintained thatched farmhouses in the idyllic village intact. Run by chef Jens Reinhard Nielsen – just like his father and grandfather before him – Reersø Inn has been an integral part of the village since 1639.

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Reersø Kro

When medieval Reersø islanders rescued Queen Margrethe I from a storm on the Storebælt Strait, she granted them special privileges that spared them from serfdom and certain taxes through to modern times. The people of Reersø lived off the land and sea, largely governing themselves, and even bought the island off the local lord in 1802. No longer quite an island, Reersø remains unspoilt and unique, though locals are much keener to share their idyllic way of life with strangers than their ancestors. At Reersø Kro, itself a classic thatched white farmhouse, Nielsen and his staff retain the link to the local area. “We change the menu according to which local ingredients are in season,” he explains. “Produce from 94 | Issue 92 | September 2016

our neighbouring farms are our most important ingredient.”

Nielsen, a chef, inherited Reersø Kro seven years ago. Though the inn oozes history and cosy traditions, it has been modernised and features 13 comfortable en suite rooms for overnight guests, easy handicap access as well as conference and events rooms with modern technology and space for up to 180 people. Reassuringly, the kitchen has been brought into the 21st century too and is equipped with an ‘elite’ hygiene rating. The menu, on the other hand, remains classically Danish with specialities such as eel and plaice. “Most of our fish is caught straight from the strait, so it doesn’t come much

fresher than that,” Nielsen says. “Actually, we have our own live eel barrels, so I suppose that’s even fresher.”

Fishermen are not the only ones attracted to the local fish: porpoises and sea birds are frequent visitors, while deer and other animals can be spotted in the local forests.

Diners and overnight visitors at the inn can take advantage of staff members’ great local knowledge. They take pride in personable service and will gladly guide visitors towards the local sites, including the quiet, unspoilt beaches, idyllic harbour and Reersø’s numerous art galleries. “What I’m most proud of,” Nielsen says, “is the inn’s intimacy and cosy atmosphere.”

Just half an hour from Kalundborg and the bridge connecting Sealand and Funen, Reersø and its inn remain among the easiest and most authentic ways to recharge at the slower pace of centuries past.

For more information, please visit: www.reersoekro.dk

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway

Restaurant of the Month, Norway

The taste of arctic abundance From within the stunning Kystens Hus in downtown Tromsø, Restaurant Skirri sources the best local ingredients to present an arctic menu that changes with the seasons. On the side is a giant aquarium, a stunning view and the city’s most delicious cocktails.

By Eirik Elvevold | Photos: Kystens Mathus

“Right now, with autumn coming up, we are facing a great period of fresh lamb and ripe vegetables. Restaurant Skirri’s menu is always changing with the seasons, to draw from what is available in the region,” says Thomas Hafstad, director at Kystens Mathus (the Food House of the Coast), where Restaurant Skirri is located and for which it plays an essential part. Kystens Mathus occupies the entire first floor of the eye-catching Kystens Hus (the House of the Coast) in the very centre of Tromsø. Built in 2015 as a showcase for the Arctic coast, the architectural stunner is home to an important Norwegian maritime industrial cluster, a large aquarium full of arctic marine life and quality food from northern Norway.

“We have 120 seats inside and 100 seats outside Kystens Hus, which is quite an

unusual building that’s hard to miss. On top of loving our location, ambience and food, guests are often impressed by the view and our bartender’s cocktails – they are the best in town,” Hafstad explains confidently.

In addition to Restaurant Skirri, which got its name from the Sami word for the arctic dwarf birch, Kystens Mathus has a café, an ice cream bar and two counters of fresh meat and seafood run by renowned local businesses Dragøy and Mydland. The two traditional companies also provide raw materials, including reindeer, lamb, halibut and cod, for Skirri’s menu. “Both companies are institutions with centuries of experience and strong identities both in and beyond Tromsø. For many Norwegians, the names are simply synonymous with quality and competence,” says Hafstad.

RESTAURANT SKIRRI AT A GLANCE: - Located inside Kystens Hus (the House of the Coast), dubbed ’The Black Diamond’, in the city centre of Tromsø, Norway.

- View to the strait of Tromsøysundet, the Tromsø Bridge and a large aquarium full of arctic marine life.

- Outside seating facing the town square.

- Perfectly suited for large events.

For more information, please visit: www.kystensmathus.no

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 95

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

With the help of Mikkel Jerger’s wife, photographer Marie Louise Munkegaard, the interiors of Herthadalen have had a recent makeover creating a rustic Nordic design completed by elements from the surrounding forest.

Restaurant of the Month, Denmark

A delicious game Located in the midst of Zealand’s first and only national park, Herthadalen offers spectacular settings for celebrating life’s big events. The restaurant, which is part of Ledreborg Castle, serves a menu based on local ingredients and, during autumn, game from the castle’s grounds.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Marie Louise Munkegaard

It is no coincidence that Herthadalen has been fully booked for weddings throughout the summer. With a location that is serene and beautiful, yet no more than 30 minutes from Copenhagen, the restaurant provides a romantic and convenient setting. For restaurateur Mikkel Jerger, who was married at Herthadalen five years ago, there is no doubt that his place adds a little extra magic to the special day. “Our location is extremely beautiful. Tucked away in the forest, away from everything, it enables 96 | Issue 92 | September 2016

our guests to have their own space free from outside disturbances,” he says and, with regards to the restaurant’s locally sourced menu, adds: “Herthadalen is part of Ledreborg Castle, so it seemed natural to source game from the castle and the local huntsmen. I love the authentic – when you visit a restaurant, you should be presented with more than just good food and service; you should get an experience saturated by values.”

Herthadalen has five event rooms for private parties, meetings and other

gatherings, all holding 20 to 500 guests; all rooms have private terraces and views of Knapsø Lake.

Thinking outside the building Herthadalen’s distinctive setting and many versatile event rooms also make it a popular venue for corporate events.

It is located in the midst of a forest and with the national park’s large outdoor experience centre, Lejre, the Land of legends, next door, a range of activities is available. “Our setting is perfect for those wishing to have an undisturbed meeting, discuss important strategies or do teambuilding activities. You have the whole place to yourself and the surroundings offer an array of opportunities. It’s about thinking outside the building, not just about a comfortable setting but about

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

new experiences, and that’s why people come here,” stresses Jerger. Guests can also join the chefs of Herthadalen for some herb and flower picking in their on-site herb garden or on mushroom picking outings in the surrounding forest.

Visit on your own Planning a major event such as a wedding, anniversary or company gathering can be daunting, especially if you have not been to the place before. Hence, when Jerger took over Herthadalen three years ago, he decided to open up Herthadalen restaurant every Friday. Whether you are planning a big event or just curious

to experience the venue’s special atmosphere and delicious food, everyone is welcome. “When you plan something big, like a wedding, you have to feel safe – and that’s why I’ve decided to open the restaurant once a week. It’s a chance for us to invite everyone to come and try our seasonal menu. In spring we cook seafood and fish, in summer it’s a big BBQ, and in autumn we serve game from Ledreborg Castle.”

For more information, please visit: www.herthadalen.dk

FACTS ABOUT HERTHADALEN: Herthadalen is located in Zealand’s only national park, Skjoldungernes Land.

Restaurant Herthadalen is open every Friday from April to December, as well as during specific holidays including Christmas and Easter.

The restaurant serves a four-course menu based on game and other local produce.

Herthadalen is located a ten-minute drive from Roskilde and 30 minutes from Copenhagen.

Booking is essential.

Top right: 34-year-old Mikkel Jerger had worked for Herthdalen for about seven years when he took over the place in 2013. Bottom left and middle: Herthadalen’s menu is based on local seasonal produce including game from the Ledreborg Castle. Bottom right: The chefs of Herthadalen pick flowers and herbs for the seasonal menu in their on-site herb garden.

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 97

Brewery of the Month, Denmark

‘Quality is key to everything we do’ Bryggeriet Frejdahl is a brewery based in Assens on Funen, Denmark’s second-largest island, specialising in premium craft of the highest quality. Their expertise in reviving ancient, traditional Nordic recipes and using them in a fresh context with top-end luxury ingredients makes them a strong player in an increasingly competitive market.

Founded last year, their authentic product range is available in supermarkets, bars, restaurants and cafés around Denmark and is already proving highly popular.

By Susan Hansen | Photos: Jim Lyngvild

Keen to bring together design, Nordic history and elements of Viking culture, acclaimed Danish fashion designer, Viking enthusiast and concept man Jim Lyngvild came up with an idea centred around craft beer. Denmark has an enviable global reputation for beer brewing, which can be as much of a help as a hindrance, and Lyngvild knew that his idea as well as the product had to be unique. Then renowned German brewmaster Christoph Behnke got involved, who works for Bryggeriet Vestfyen, one of Denmark’s leading breweries, which has been going strong since 1885.

Dorthe Kildal Johannsen, one of the staff at Bryggeriet Frejdahl, believes 98 | Issue 92 | September 2016

that the secret to the company’s instant success and popularity is that they offer more than just any beer. “The average Mr and Mrs Jensen enjoy a treat, and a lot of people in Denmark have started to buy craft beer. People have begun to seek out distinct flavours and want good quality too.”

Quality is one thing, price is another, and offering quality usually comes at a cost. But just because something looks expensive that does not mean that it needs to be; some of the brewery’s beers even come with a Champagnestyle corkscrew. Three of their products are organic and sourcing the best ingredients is key. Bryggeriet Frejdahl

uses local produce where possible and shops elsewhere for other ingredients; quality is what is important.

Now the company is looking beyond Denmark. One such development is an exciting collaboration with Highland Park Whisky, based on the Orkney Islands. A brand new product, beautifully arranged in a box containing a beer and a bottle of whisky, will be launched in due course.

So far the new beer adventure is going very well. If you ask Johannsen, the company has got off to a great start. “It has been a huge success so far and we are doing even better than expected. It is a big market and we are selling a lot of beer, and we are just grateful to have managed to get in there. Denmark has so many excellent breweries, which makes it an even greater achievement.”

For more information, please visit: www.frejdahl.dk

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Iceland

Attraction of the Month, Iceland

The world-famous phallological museum The Icelandic Phallological Museum in Reykjavík is like no other museum. It houses the world’s largest display of penises and penile parts from sea and land mammals, and even elves and trolls. Unsurprisingly, it has become an immensely popular tourist attraction.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Icelandic Phallological Museum

The Icelandic Phallological Museum in Reykjavík has been the subject of articles, books, TV shows and documentaries. The 250-square-metre exhibition contains a unique collection of more than 290 phallic specimens from almost all land and sea mammals found in Iceland and also includes a small foreign section. Visitors will be able to see penises and penile parts from for example whales, seals, walruses, polar bears, elephants, giraffes, and even humans – not to mention the mysterious elves, trolls and kelpies.

Founder and now retired teacher Sigurður Hjartarson started his collection over 40 years ago and opened the museum to the public in 1997, then with 62 specimens available to view. Over the years, the exhibition has grown, and last year the museum had more than 30,000 visitors, with numbers expected to reach around

In addition to the biological section, the museum displays around 350 pieces of art and crafts related to the theme. To further promote the mix of biology and art, the museum regularly works with local and international artists and new collaborations are expected later this year.

40,000-50,000 this year. “My father never imagined this when he opened the museum,” says curator Hjörtur Gísli Sigurðsson, who is in charge of the museum now. “Everybody thought he was crazy, collecting penises, but it turns out he had a great vision and it’s been a very successful business.”

Most popular amongst visitors is the blue whale penis, measuring 1.7 metres and weighing 70 kilogrammes. “Everybody wants to have their photo taken next to it,” says Sigurdsson. He talks about the ever-expanding collection and how he is always on the lookout for new pieces. The foreign section in particular is growing.

“We add at least three or four pieces per year, usually received from people living abroad who are interested in our museum or from locals who have visited some far-away country and brought back another item for us.”

The Icelandic Phallological Museum is open daily, 10am-6pm.

It is located centrally in Reykjavík, next to the main bus terminal.

In addition to the main exhibition, visitors can also buy souvenirs from the museum shop.

For more information, please visit: www.phallus.is

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 99

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Attraction of the Month, Norway

Adventure awaits in the heart of Oslo One hour. One goal: escape! The concept is as easy as it is ingenious. A group of people are locked together in a room and must solve a series of puzzles within 60 minutes to regain their freedom. The idea has taken the world by storm, and Oslo is no exception. AdventureRooms Oslo opened in January this year to the delight of locals and tourists alike.

By Helene Toftner | Photos: AdventureRooms Oslo

The concept of AdventureRooms debuted in Switzerland and has spread to 18 countries. While most people perhaps would not relish being locked in a room, AdventureRooms has intrigued men and women, children and teenagers, colleagues and friends with its world of puzzles. The escape room idea brings traditional board and video games to life, as players enter another reality where they are challenged to solve puzzles in order to escape.

“This is a team activity for absolutely everyone, regardless of age, physical 100 | Issue 92 | September 2016

life’s milestones. “There are very few activities on offer where every individual’s skill set is equally valued,” Kavlie says.

“This isn’t about being the fittest or smartest in class, but about challenging the way you think.”

The ‘a-ha!’ moment

ability or academic background,” says Hogne Kavlie, owner of AdventureRooms Oslo. “The players have to solve the brain teasers together, and everyone influences the group’s dynamic. Attention to detail is as important as logical thinking and curiosity to explore and experiment to uncover hidden clues that bring the group closer to freedom.”

For those of you who mistakenly think that escaping from AdventureRooms is easy because it is ‘for everyone’, think again. Only 30 per cent of players succeed in escaping within 60 minutes.

The remaining 70 per cent are, according to Kavlie, equally excited as those who escape, although presumably without the same sense of glory.

Kavlie hits the nail on the head as to why this has captured the public’s imagination, as businesses bring their employees for team-building events while others include it when celebrating

“Many say they experience an ‘a-ha!’ moment when they discover the solution, how it makes so much sense and is rather easy once you learn how,” says Sharon Lai, co-owner and game designer

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Perfect for team building

they score an impressive five out of five possible stars. Recurring comments note ”great family activity”, “intense and challenging”, and “great fun”. “Many Norwegians have never heard of escape rooms before, so we were unsure how well our concept would be received.

Since our opening, we have observed that they have come to love it. While our escape rooms are very popular among families and students, there is increased engagement by corporate clients who are in the market for teambuilding activities,” says Kavlie. “In order to succeed, teams have to cooperate and communicate well to overcome obstacles together, which in many ways mirrors real-life work situations. Here at AdventureRooms, they do it in a far more enjoyable environment,” Lai adds.

A quick look on TripAdvisor shows that locals and tourists alike have taken a fancy to AdventureRooms Oslo, as

While most escape rooms can only take up to six players per game, Adventure-

at AdventureRooms Oslo. “It encourages people to keep an open mind to solve puzzles by thinking outside the box.”

AdventureRooms Oslo offers three different escape room games. The Original Swiss Game is their classic game and perfect for players new to escape rooms. The Black Queen beguiles players to find her in her dark castle, while The Piano revolves around the owner of a Tivoli who will bequeath his enormous wealth to the first team to escape his fun house. “The Original Swiss Game is our signature game for new players, while The Piano gives even experienced players an adrenaline rush,” Kavlie says.

Rooms Oslo has a unique dual set-up that can accommodate 12 to 14 players in the same game simultaneously. “It is hugely popular to compete against the clock and other teams concurrently,” says Kavlie.

“Our current capacity is 32 players.”

Lai adds: “And if you’re at a loss for gift ideas for someone who already has everything, why not give the gift of an escapade of a lifetime for a change?

Our gift vouchers come concealed in a mystery box.”

AdventureRooms Oslo is conveniently located in the heart of Oslo, with easy access to Oslo Central Station and tourist attractions such as the Royal Palace and the Opera House.

For more information and to book, please visit: www.adventurerooms.no

AdventureRooms Oslo was set up

by Hogne Kavlie and Sharon Lai.

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 101

Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark

Tucked away in an old fruit plantation in Skælskør lies Guldagergaard, one of the world’s leading centres within ceramic research and training.

Experience of the Month, Denmark

Denmark’s local, global powerhouse of ceramics Tucked away in a historic farmhouse in Skælskør lies Guldagergaard International Ceramics Research Center, one of the world’s leading powerhouses within ceramics.

The centre is visited by some of the world’s best ceramicists, who work, exhibit and network in the beautiful settings of the old fruit plantation.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Guldagergaard

The serene, 100-year-old fruit plantation Guldagergaard is visited by 200 of the world’s most talented ceramic artists every year. The artists are drawn to the centre not just because of its world-class facilities, but also thanks to its reputation 102 | Issue 92 | September 2016

for excellence, which was embedded in the institution by its founders, six female ceramists. “When it comes to ceramics, we are one of the eight leading centres in the world. Our artists-in-residence come here to find peace and time for immersion

but also because we have facilities that can’t be found anywhere else,” explains director Mette Blum Marcher and adds: “The women who set up Guldagergaard had a vision of creating an international powerhouse to strengthen and promote Danish ceramics, and that’s very much what we have done and are still doing.”

Guldagergaard has a maximum of ten artists-in-residence every month.

Most artists end their stay with a public exhibition at the centre and many also

Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark

Two and a half hours from London

ceramics is rather small and closed. But on the other hand, the local environment supports us very much; when we open an exhibition, we have around 300-400 visitors, and it is that support that makes this such a unique place.”

One of the surprising features of Guldagergaard is its location, which is, at least in Danish terms, out of proximity to the country’s bigger cultural hubs. However, this has never caused any problems in regards to attracting international talent; on the contrary, says Marcher, the local connection has always made for a strong foundation for the centre. “In a way this is a bit of a gem, which not a lot of people know about, because the world of professional

For many of the international artists, who come from larger countries such as China and the USA, Skælskør is not actually far away from anything.

Located just around a 75-minute drive from Copenhagen Airport, many in fact find it a convenient location from which to explore more of Europe. “One of the great things about being an international centre in a local setting is that you meet people who see Skælskør as not being

contribute to the centre’s permanent studio collection, which is, with more than a thousand pieces, the biggest in northern Europe.

the outskirts of Denmark, but as being just two and a half hours from London,” Marcher points out.

Only the best Ever since its foundation 20 years ago, the vision of the six ceramicists behind Guldagergaard has characterised the centre. Thanks to an ambitious set of dogma rules, which are still followed strictly today, Guldagergaard is, and always has been, a place for the best of the best to nurture and develop their skills.

“Being practising ceramicists exhibiting all over the world, our founders were very conscious about the importance of having an international network,” explains Marcher. This means that at least 80 per

Left: Guldagergaard attracts some of the world’s leading ceramic artists, who live and work at the centre for a month at a time. Right: Guldagergaard is headed by director Mette Blum Marcher.

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 103

Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark

Guldagergaard’s surrounding sculptural park and gallery is open to the public.

cent of the artists-in-residence come from abroad, but the main purpose is, nonetheless, to strengthen and expand the Danish ceramics scene. “In a way it is very ‘un-Danish’ to have an institution like ours, which only accepts professional practising artists and does not make any

compromises. But when we have a fixed target of having at least 80 per cent artists from abroad, it’s because Denmark is such a small country and we need some international super stars from outside to help inspire and strengthen Danish ceramics,” Marcher rounds off.

FACTS ABOUT GULDAGERGAARD: - Guldagergaard is a non-profit institution with state funding from the Danish Ministry of Culture and the municipality of Slagelse.

- Artists pay for their own stay at the centre.

- The centre’s ceramic facilities comprise a 720-square-metre studio building with gas kilns, electric kilns and wood-fired kilns as well as a glaze, plaster and mould making workshop, slip-casting room, auditorium, library for research, photo equipment, 3D print workshop, silk screen print workshop and wood workshop.

- Resident artists can apply to exhibit in Guldagergaard’s gallery.

- Admission to exhibitions is free, as is entrance to the centre’s beautiful surrounding sculptural park, which is open all year round.

- Guldagergaard also offers a string of workshops and university programmes.

- The centre is located in the town of Skælskør, an hour’s drive from Copenhagen.

For more information, please visit: www.ceramic.dk

104 | Issue 92 | September 2016

For mer informasjon om forhandlere: www.florence.no, tlf.: 32 16 00 20 eller post@florence.no

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Scan Magazine | Activity of the Month | Denmark

Activity of the Month, Denmark

Cod and castles Spend the day fishing and watching wildlife or enjoy the spectacular sunset over Hamlet’s home, Kronborg Castle. Whether you are a local or a tourist, young or old, a seasoned angler or fresh-faced novice, Elida Fishing offers spectacular experiences on the Danish sea.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: elidafishing.dk

With four boats setting off from Elsinore and Rungsted harbour, Elida Fishing offers daily fishing trips all year round.

The boats, which vary in size, can also be hired for company and group events of all sorts. “Today we are Denmark’s biggest player within saltwater angling. But we do a lot of other things too: company trips, nature tours and, during summer, we set out every Friday and Saturday night to see the sun set over Kronborg – and if we are lucky we are joined by a pod of porpoises,” says Carsten Nielsen,

deputy manager of the company, which was founded in the late ‘70s by Peter Ølgaard.

The tours are popular with loyal angling enthusiasts, but novices, tourists and children are also more than welcome, and all necessary equipment can be hired on the boat. “Everyone who works in our company is a seasoned angler; no one has less than ten years’ experience, and we are all here to help with tips on how to handle the equipment and the catch

and how to prepare the fish when back on land,” says Nielsen, who is known by most people as Carsten ‘Fish’. “To us, the most important people to reach are those who have never been out on the sea and experienced its wildlife before. There are loads of birds and a large population of porpoises; if you want to go just for the nature and the experience that’s fine too, but of course we do recommend that you try giving the fishing rod a throw or two.”

Scheduled boats leave from Elsinore and Rungsted harbour every day, with several daily departures including evening sunset tours during weekends and the summer months.

Boats can also be hired for private tours tailored to suit the individual company, group or person’s needs.

Price: Adults: 280DKK; children: 230DKK; seniors (Monday and Tuesday): 180DKK.

For more information or to book, call +45 45 57 07 24 or +45 20 32 07 24 or visit www.fishing.dk

106 | Issue 92 | September 2016

Scan Magazine | Humour | Columns

IS IT JUST ME…

By Mette Lisby

Who does not get the hoopla about the Olympics?

It really feels like I am the only one in the universe. It has taken me years to say this out loud, let alone put it in writing. I am sorry! The Olympics just never struck a chord with me.

I mean, I get the team sports – football, volleyball, handball – basically anything with a ball in it, even golf, is sort of interesting to watch. But these are sports we can watch anytime; we do not need the Olympics for that. What remains a mystery to me are the signature disciplines of the Olympics: track and field, gymnastics and swimming.

From early childhood I remember how my parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts would gather in front of the TV at two o’clock in the morning, excitedly, almost ceremonially, because: “It is the Olympics! People are swimming and running! It is ah-mah-zing,” they said. “What’s so great about that?” I asked. “They do it really fast,” my dad said, and I remember thinking: “Why?” I mean, throw in a ball and you can have a million different outcomes. But without it,

there is just the finishing line and getting there in a hurry, and I am sorry but I am not impressed by ‘hurry’. The problem for me is that when they are all fast, it does not really look that impressive. I can easily sit on my couch thinking “Wow! 100 metres in ten seconds. It doesn’t sound completely like something I couldn’t do. You know, if I really like... tried.”

I think we should take comedian Bill Murray’s Olympic advice and have one regular person compete in each discipline, just for reference.

I would love to see a regular person run next to Usain Bolt or swim next to Phelps. Heck – I would even get in the pool myself, swimming leisurely along (only in the 50-metre of course – any longer and the life guard would have to jump in the pool).

Introducing regular people would not only make the tremendous efforts of the Olympians stand out; it would significantly prolong the Olympics that everyone except me is so excited about, as we would still be waiting for the regular person to finish the marathon.

Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish version of Have I Got News For You and Room 101.

Swedish adult

By Maria Smedstad

Having spent most of my adult life in England, I am reasonably good at being a British grown-up. I am familiar with etiquette, dress codes and polite conversation. However, I have absolutely no idea how to be an adult in Sweden. I left the country aged 15, when the extent of my adultness was believing that I held some pretty sound political ideas (I did not) and the vague notion that one day I may need a real bra.

boyfriend is excited about this. I have not yet told him about the complex snaps toasting rules, because I do not know what they are and the last time I tried to be a Swedish adult I failed to recognise that I was doing it all wrong. I was toasting the friendliest man at the table, not the poor chap who (unbeknown to me) was my table partner and who (understandably) was not happy about it.

See what I mean? Help!

I am now about to attend the wedding of my closet childhood friend, and I am frightened.

She is a lovely, laid-back sort of person, but I am still petrified that I will somehow mess up her wedding by not knowing how to behave.

The dress code is ‘jacket’. What does that mean?! The best man has asked me if I want to give a speech. No! I was hoping to spend the day hiding behind my English boyfriend.

He has one wedding mode for whichever country he is in, which involves putting on the same suit he wears to every wedding

and then drinking steadily until he is on the dancefloor with his tie around his head.

But oh no, I forgot that as a Swedish adult you do not get to sit with your other half; instead you get a dedicated table partner. My

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.

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 107

Spreading joy with a retro groove Some people like to describe them as neo-Motown, but the musicians behind Black Dylan insist that their music is defined more by an era than any specific genre. Scan Magazine spoke to the Danish duo that refuse to be put in a box.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Tania Gibson

“Mikkel and I worked together for many years doing a bit of hip-hop, some reggae, R ’n’ B – we flew wherever the wind took us and learnt from everything we could,” says Wafande, known to most Danes for his catchy Danish-language reggae soul, including singles that went platinum and gold in Denmark and albums in the top ten of the album charts of recent years.

“But we really found each other in the 108 | Issue 92 | September 2016

soul genre, listening to records from ’62 to ’76. I grew up listening to Billie Holiday and Ray Charles.”

Jumping out of the box But while the singer is impressively specific about the years that saw the birth of his favourite tunes, the output of Black Dylan sprawls in all kinds of directions, with references to early soul and blues as

well as hip-hop, ‘80s pop and later dance music in addition, of course, to reggae.

“I come from six different countries, so I have to be able to jump out of the box,” Wafande explains. His mother is half Danish and half French and his father grew up in Tanzania but originates from Congo, Malawi and Oman.

The singer spent half his life in France. His childhood was complicated, he says, still speaking very warmly of his mother and the community that raised him. “I grew up in Freetown Christiania, this hippie village in Copenhagen, like something from the ‘60s. It’s like a community, a

Scan Magazine | Culture | Black Dylan

family – we’re still all intertwined more than neighbours.” He moved to France at the age of eight and spent the bones of a decade there before moving back and forth a great deal. “Friends have always been very important to me because my dad wasn’t around, so I learnt to find my own family,” he says.

From hip-hop to soul Mikkel Thomsen, better known as Nuplex, says that it was hip-hop that showed him the way to his love for soul music. “I was into hip-hop for many years, and then I realised that these guys who produced the music were sampling actual recordings from something else,” he explains. “I wanted to meet those heavy drums and went exploring, and then I realised I liked the original music better. I couldn’t just sample it anymore, so I had to learn the piano. I had to master an instrument to compose.”

He too is specific about the heritage of his favourite music. “I really enjoy soul, funk and jazz, but it’s the stuff from ’68 to ’75 that I really love – those are my favourite years in music production.”

Indeed, if one thing is certain, it is that there is an unmistakable retro quality to the Black Dylan sound, especially so when they perform with their full band line-up, complete with a full horn section. “We just had to do it!” they laugh about the live set-up, even if they have worked out a way to tour with a smaller, acoustic line-up as well. “We just love that organic sound that the brass section brings.”

took to the stage for their first London headline shows at the vibey 229 Club in Islington earlier this summer. “Our main thing is spreading joy. Everyone’s lonely sometimes and everyone can relate to that, but we should all be together and smile at each other.”

With some solid touring throughout Denmark coming up in November, the duo are noticeably excited – and anyone with a love of a retro groove should be too. “We’re going to give it everything,” says Nuplex. “If it’s seven people or 2,000 people, they’ll still get the same concert.”

Giving it everything When asked where the band name came from, they are less specific. “It was the first thing we thought of,” says Wafande. “We just liked the sound of it – it grooves.” And groove it did when they

For more information on dates, tickets and releases, please visit: www.facebook.com/blackdylanofficial

Issue 92 | September 2016 | 109

Scan Magazine | Culture Profile | Kongegaarden

Artful harmonies

By Louise Older Steffensen

Just by the Storebælt Bridge lies Korsør, a beautiful little town by the sea that has been an important crossover point between eastern and western Denmark since the 15th century. One of the jewels amongst the town’s historical buildings is Kongegaarden (the King’s Court), which played host to numerous royals and their affairs. Today, it forms the perfect backdrop to art exhibitions and music events.

Built in 1761, the house was restored to its former glory in the 1990s and converted into a regional centre for the arts. The bottom floor became the permanent home for the collections of German-Jewish artist, teacher and TV personality Kurt Harald Isenstein, who fled to Denmark in the 1930s.

Educated at Berlin’s Academy of Arts, he became acquainted with characters such as Einstein, with whom he played the violin, and one of Isenstein’s most famous works is the Einstein bust now at the Einstein centre in Potsdam. Later well-known works include his Niels Bohr and Queen Margrethe depictions. “We have more than 7,000 Isenstein pieces, from models to drawings to sculptures,” says director Joy Petrowsky. “His warm, classic modern style

really brings out his subjects’ vitality and individuality.”

The centre also plays an active role in developing the arts through two resident flats: the resident musician has studio access to the top floor concert hall, which has such excellent acoustics that both residents and international musicians have

Photo: Børge T. Andersen

Scandinavian music Swedish superstar Miss Li has been gone from the scene for an absolute age. But she returns to music now with the release of her brand new single, Bonfire. It is a reggaetinged, retro chic pop number that is ripe for a balmy September. Pure class, but not afraid to let its big ginger bouffant hair down, which is incidentally Miss Li’s new look.

Danish duo THANKS is a new act that should be on everyone’s radar. Anders and Anders (both formerly of Alphabeat) have turned Jill Scott’s Golden into a funkedup, souled-out, disco dancefloor banger on new single Livin’ My Life. It has been giving me major feel-good vibes since its release in August, and I reckon it should last for many more weekends to come.

Finnish artist Lyel has got herself a new synth-pop stunner out. It is Coming For The Rain – a lush ballad with an electronic soundscape within which there is a great deal to discover. It is the lead single from 110 | Issue 92 | September 2016

used it for professional recordings, and the luscious gardens feature summer concerts for the whole family. The rest of the building hosts changing art exhibitions interplaying with the beautiful old Rococo house, which itself has many stories to tell. King Christian VII enjoyed his own visit in the 1770s, for example, while his queen Caroline Mathilde stayed the night with the king’s scandalous doctor Struensee a few months later…

For more information, please visit: www.kongegaarden.dk

Photo: Kongegaarden

By Karl Batterbee

her debut EP, which will be out on 30 September. To hear more from her before its release, check out her previous track, Shadow, which served as an enticing introduction to the new artist.

I have yet to recover from the awesomeness of her first single, and am therefore still giving Shoot You Down lots of spins. But regardless, Swedish newcomer Nea Nelson has returned with the follow-up release. It is called Danger Love and is another huge pop number from her: an attitude-laden statement track with an epic chorus that deserves loads of attention from pop fans across the globe.

Finally, this is the best chorus I have heard all summer and, thankfully, the rest of the song is pretty amazing too. Behold Tordenkys, the debut single from Danish artist MAIA. She has spent the last few years writing for other artists both in and outside Denmark, but is now fronting

her own songs herself. And what a gem she has held back for her own launch!

Tordenkys (meaning ‘Thunder Kiss’, if you were wondering) is a euphoric belter with an infectious and uplifting melody. Some might find the Danish language lends itself a little differently to pop music than, say, the Swedish language. But the appeal of Tordenkys is undeniable.

www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@gmail.com

Viking ships in Roskilde History for all the senses – year round

Experience five original Viking ships and see our impressive boat collection in the scenic Museum Harbour.

Look, feel, smell - and try!

The Viking Ship Museum focuses on the Vikings’ maritime craftsmanship and their impressive ships.

Exciting exhibitions – Films about the Viking ships and Sea Stallion from Glendalough – Dress as a Viking Activities for children – Go on board Viking ships Boatyard – Museum Shop – New Nordic Viking Food Scenic harbour life with Viking ships and historical wooden boats.

Go sailing on Roskilde Fjord: May 15 - September 30.

SPECIAL EXHIBITION 2014 The World in the Viking Age

– Seafaring in the 9th century changed the world! vikingshipmuseum.dk

Under the age of 18 admission free Open daily 10:00 - 16:00

(May 16 - Aug. 24: 10:00 - 17:00)

Transport:

Free car park. Train to Roskilde. From Roskilde Station bus route 203 or about 20 minutes’ walk.

Aalborg Århus

Roskilde

Odense

København

Vindeboder 12 • DK-4000 Roskilde • vikingshipmuseum.dk

GREAT URBAN, DELTA, SOUL & JAZZ BLUES – 18 CLUBS & STAGES 50 TOP ACTS from USA, UK & SCANDINAVIA OFFICIAL OPENING WITH THE ANNUAL DANISH BLUES AWARDS AWARDS AFTER PARTY CONCERT WITH VERY SPECIAL GUESTS TORONZO CANNON / DAMON FOWLER / EARL THOMAS / STEVE GADD BAND / CHRIS THOMAS KING / SAMANTHA ANTOINETTE BILLY CROSS / CHUCK BERRY FILM: “HAIL! HAIL! ROCK’N’ROLL” / TOBACCO / THORBJORN RISAGER & THE BLACK TORNADO ROBERT JOHNSON TRIBUTE / ESBEN JUST TRIO feat. POUL HALBERG / OLE FRIMER BAND / THE BLUES OVERDRIVE DELTA BLUES BAND feat. MIRIAM MANDIPIRA / JAKE GREEN BAND / CPH SLIM & SARAH DA SILVA / DALE SMITH BLUES BAND LEA THORLANN & THE SPICEY GANG / THE MOJO MAKERS / HANS KNUDSEN & RONNI BOYSEN / MARIE CARMEN KOPPEL H.P. LANGE, TROELS JENSEN & JORGEN LANG / BLUES JAMBOREE with NANDE, BANKS, SCHACK, SJOEBLOM and many more

See full programme, venue and ticket information at: www.copenhagenbluesfestival.dk

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Ulnicura album art.

Photo courtesy of the artist

Moddi. Photo: Jørgen Nordby

112 | Issue 92 | September 2016

Helene Schmitz, Sound of Silence.

Photo courtesy of the artist and Fotografiska

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

Björk Digital (Until 23 Oct) A virtual reality exhibition of digital and video works, resulting from collaborations with visual artists and programmers, this exhibition also presents an extensive programme of video work spanning the Icelandic artist’s 24-year career. Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA www.somersethouse.org.uk

Helene Schmitz (Until 13 Nov) Transitions is an exhibition of the work of Helene Schmitz, one of Sweden’s most renowned photographers. Her work possesses a sort of vibration of energy and dynamism, as though something

is constantly luring below the surface.

Fotografiska, Stadsgårdshamnen 22, 116 45 Stockholm www.fotografiska.eu

Phronesis (17 Sep) The modern progressive jazz trio with Danish bassist Jasper Høiby, Swedish drummer Anton Eger and British pianist Ivo Neame comes to the Pizza Express Jazz Club in London’s Soho, following on from their recent album launch at Cadogan Hall. 7pm and 10.30pm, Pizza Express Jazz Club, 10 Dean Street, London W1D 3RW www.pizzaexpresslive.com

By Linnea Dunne

Mikkel Hess and friends (18 Sep) Hess is More, the eight-piece ensemble fronted by electronic and all-round Danish musician Mikkel Hess, performs at London’s Pizza Express Jazz Club.

8pm, Pizza Express Jazz Club, 10 Dean Street, London W1D 3RW www.pizzaexpresslive.com

Youn Sun Nah with Ulf Wakenius (20 Sep) Korean singer Youn Sun Nah is joined by legendary Swedish guitarist Ulf Wakenius at the stunning Union Chapel. 7pm, Union Chapel, Compton Terrace, London N1 2UN www.unionchapel.org.uk Issue 92 | September 2016 | 113

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Designmuseum Mindcraft, Umspiral

by Henrik Vibskov.

Photo: Jeppe Gudmundsen

HP & Troels at Copenhagen Blues Festival.

Press photo

Björk (21 Sep)

Royal Republic (7 Oct)

Midcentury Show East (9 Oct)

One of the greatest Scandinavian musicians of all times, Björk comes to London for a one-off live show to coincide with her exhibition at Somerset House.

7.30pm, Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com

The Swedish four-piece from Malmö brings its alternative garage rock to Highbury. 7pm, The Garage, 20-22 Highbury Crescent, London N5 1RD. www.thegaragehighbury.com

Fans of vintage furniture in general and Scandinavian 20th century design in particular will find inspiration and temptation at this east London showcase of coveted furniture. It will be hosted in the impressive Haggerston School designed by Brutalist architect Ernö Goldfinger in the mid-‘60s. 10am-4pm, Haggerston School, Weymouth Terrace, London E2 8LS www.modernshows.com

Copenhagen Blues Festival (27 Sep-2 Oct) For one week every autumn, Copenhagen becomes the true blues capital of Scandinavia. Now in its 16th year, the Copenhagen Blues Festival features a dynamic programme of about 50 concerts with world-class international as well as Danish acts across near 20 stages, ranging from small, intimate clubs to large concert halls. Expect a mixture of traditional and new interpretations of the genre, performed by seasoned veterans and young talents alike. www.copenhagenbluesfestival.dk

Moddi (3 Oct) Norwegian songwriter and storyteller Moddi brings his new project Unsongs, a collection of banned songs from different eras and cultures, to London. 7.30pm, St. Giles-in-the-Fields Church, 60 St. Giles High St, London WC2H 8LG www.stgilesonline.org 114 | Issue 92 | September 2016

MINDCRAFT16 (7 Oct 2016-8 Jan 2017) This new Designmuseum Denmark exhibition will showcase some of Denmark’s most talented craftspeople and designers to demonstrate the qualities, potentials and versatility of new Danish craft and design. The exhibition is organised by the Danish Arts Foundation and the Agency for Culture and Palaces and will present work by, among others, Henrik Vibskov, Rosa Tolnov Clausen and Cecilie Manz. Designmuseum Danmark, Bredgade 68, 1260 Copenhagen www.designmuseum.dk

Galantis (19 Oct) The Swedish electronic music duo comprising of Christian ‘Bloodshy’ Karlsson and Linus Eklöw plays The Forum. 7pm, O2 Forum Kentish Town, 9-17 Highgate Road, London NW5 1JY www.academymusicgroup.com

Engineering the World: Ove Arup (Until 9 Oct) Last chance for fans of architecture and construction to discover the buildings brought to life by Danish-British engineer Ove Arup, responsible among other things for creations such as the penguin pool at London Zoo and Sydney Opera House. The Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk

Galantis.

Photo: Jimmy Fontaine

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AUTUMN GETAWAYS Wadden Sea National Park, Denmark

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Vadehavet www.waddensea-worldheritage.org / www.nationalparkvadehavet.dk