Lifestyle

Go wild in style

14th December 2016 | by The Luxury Report Editor

To be surrounded by the sea and the beauty of the great outdoors is to rediscover our sense of adventure and completely unwind from the stresses of daily life – welcome to the Stockholm archipelago. Consisting of more than 20,000 islands, the Stockholm archipelago is the second largest in the Baltic Sea, it can be easily reached from Sweden’s capital city and is the site of some of Europe’s most glorious wildlife. It’s also home to a place perfect for those seeking total seclusion – Island Lodge.

Set on the uninhabited island of Bergholmen – just a 40-minute boat ride from Stockholm – Island Lodge is a sustainable and luxurious tented accommodation. This private island concept was designed by Torkild Berglund from Norway and Swede, Kristina Bonde, who lived for a period in Botswana – both are experts at delivering glamping at its very finest.

The accommodation on Island Lodge is unique. Made up of eight high-tech twin or double-bed tents, this is camping, but not as you know it. Each spanning 18 sqm, the tents include six removable windows as well as a much larger bay window. Located on the island’s most picturesque spots, each and every tent offers spectacular views of the Stockholm archipelago. The interior, too, is sure to take your breath away. Home to an array of stylish Scandinavian furnishings, guests will be astounded by the attention to detail involved in creating these unique island abodes. Equipped with cosy, comfortable beds dressed with the finest luxury linen, the tents are heated by a rustic, wood-burning stove – just the ticket for those chilly, autumn days. Candles make for romantic evenings, whereas the crisp Scandinavian air ensures a good night’s sleep all round.

The food at Island Lodge is testament to the talents of star chef, Jan Land. With almost 25 years of culinary experience, you can rest assured that the food is worlds away from standard camping fare. Using organic, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, Island Lodge’s team of gourmet chefs, led by Land, promises a fabulous gourmet experience – whilst also supporting local traders, farmers and small businesses. If that doesn’t leave a good taste in the mouth, we don’t know what will.

So much to do

The Stockholm Archipelago offers endless activities, from sailing aboard a skippered 35ft trimaran, to embarking on an unforgettable sea safari in search of seals, sea eagles and other wonderful creatures. Over on dry land, there’s no chance of getting bored either. Check out the island’s two beaches, or explore your new habitat by following old military patrol tracks to really make the most of the island’s diverse landscape. Depending on the season, there’s even the chance to pick berries or mushrooms – whatever takes your fancy. For corporate events, why not try firewalking, it’s sure to get everybody talking. Alternatively, if you think that walking on coals is too hot to handle, jump in the 40°C wood-fired tub and bask in bubbling waters with a cool beer and even cooler views of waterways beyond.

Island Lodge is located in the very heart of the Stockholm Archipelago, just 40 minutes from Sweden’s vibrant capital or less than an hour from Stockholm Arlanda Airport. You can arrive by private boat transfer, allowing for a convenient connection for international guests. For business events, there’s even a spectacular 350 sqm conference facility housed in a former military torpedo workshop.

Open between the 1 May and 31 October, the best time to enjoy the Island Lodge Bergholmen is the summer where temperatures can climb as high as the mid-twenties. Spring and autumn offer a more cosy experience, keeping warm by a wood-fired stove, reading by kerosene lamps and enjoying the beautiful stars through the roof windows in the tents.

It´s no wonder that guests are drawn to Island Lodge and the chance to completely relax amid pristine natural surroundings without having to sacrifice total comfort and great service.