Stora Hotellet Bryggan, Fjallbacka

Location

With less than 900 inhabitants, Fjällbacka is an idyllic summer getaway on Sweden’s picturesque west coast. Its 19th century neo-Gothic church forms a fitting backdrop to quaint streets full of art galleries, independent restaurants and boutique shops. Outside the town, there are Bronze Age rock carvings and Veddo Nature Reserve, a beach peninsula that forms a beautiful piece in the puzzle that is Sweden’s western archipelago. To explore the waters, jump aboard yachts, fishing boats or motor cruisers that depart from the hotel’s pier.

Accommodation

The hotel’s nautically themed rooms are inspired by the Swedish explorer Captain Klassen and his travels around the world. Tastefully decorated, each unique room features subtle nods to Sweden’s seafaring tradition. Free wireless internet is available throughout and, for balconies with sea views, upgrade to a suite or superior room. Set apart from the rest of the accommodation, the hotel’s penthouse apartment comes with fantastic views of the harbour. There’s also a five-bedroom house decorated in the same Newport-style as the hotel, complete with lounge, kitchen and barbeque patio.

Dining

Taking advantage of its seafront location, the hotel has a fine range of restaurants, bars and bistros. Matilda, Stora Hotellet’s main restaurant, specialises in excellent locally caught seafood. Dishes include lobster and pan-seared scallops. For lighter bites, head to the Bridge & Bistro, which offers a selection of sandwiches, salads and freshly baked buns and pastries. Evert’s Tapas bar, tucked away in the hotel’s intimate basement, serves a wide range of authentic Spanish dishes with pitchers of sangria. In summer, Slajdarn’s offers an extensive grill menu in the hotel’s gardens while food is served indoors by the fireplace in the winter. Lastly, at Café San Remo you’ll find excellent Italian coffee served with hot paninis and mini pizzas. Perfect for lunch.

Facilities

The hotel puts on a host of organised tours to help you explore the area. Walking tours of the town teach you about Fjällbacka’s fascinating past, while hiking trails and day trips to private, uninhabited islands take you further afield. And with everything from lobster fishing and kayaking to cooking courses and golf, there’s plenty to keep everyone occupied. After dinner, guests often head to the Upper Deck piano bar and nightclub to enjoy drinks with a view over the Fjällbacka archipelago.