A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel

Tor Kjølberg
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0
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel

Just a 20 minutes’ drive from Oslo, the capital of Norway, we arrived at the Losby Gods (Losby Manor), awarded Historic Hotels Award of Excellence 2020 by the prestigious organizations Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. And indeed, we had a very Christmassy stay at this award-winning Norwegian hotel.

On arrival, the hotel was brimming with Christmas decorations, from a massive tree with presents underneath to Christmas wreaths behind the reception and roaring fires. The massive 9.500 square meter (102,257 square feet) country estate, originally from 1850, has only 70 rooms, inclusive 5 suites, so guests may get lost in this affluent estate.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
“We pride ourselves on providing great accommodation options for families and businesses, and we always strive to make our guests’ breaks as memorable as possible,”says hotel manager Heidi Elisabeth Fjellheim

Owned by affluent families until 1959
The massive historical manor, was originally three estates from early 17th century when the timber industry was booming. In 1797, Andreas Lumholtz inherited the property and he started inviting many important people to Losby.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Members of the Norwegian Parliament 1905 decorate one of the walls at Losby Gods

Part-owner and hotel manager Heidi Elisabeth Fjellheim tells us that Losby Gods was family-owned between 1797 and 1959 by family members such as Thorvald Meyer and Thomas Heftye, large urban developers In Oslo with streets named after them. Lorentz Meyer Boeck and his wife Kathrine was the last family members having the pleasure of being the owners. Kathrine (called Fruen, Madam in English) ran Losby alone for 22 years until 1959.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
The baby bed in the corner was made for the child of the Boecks who died soon after birth. It’s now back where it once was intended to be.

The Boecks had no children, and so the estate was divided among 18 relations. The Manor was purchased from the property in 1985 and was the first time in history that the owner was someone other than the landowner.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
The massive historical manor, was originally three estates from early 17th century when the timber industry was booming

Related: Scandinavian Christmas Decorations

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Outside decorations in the night
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
All rooms have wonderful views, overlooking either the Losby forests or the Losby golf courses (one 18-hole golf course and one 9 hole)

A favorite among golf players
The luxury countryside retreat is set amongst the stunning background of an area of approximately 40 000 acres of glorious woodland. All rooms have wonderful views, overlooking either the Losby forests or the Losby golf courses (one 18-hole golf course and one 9 hole).

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Original ceiling paintings are restored
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
The ceiling decorations are today part of the logo on tableware, chairs, carpets etc

A living museum
On the first floor, we enter the dining room, which today serves as the fine dining restaurant. During a renovation 22 years ago, a carpenter stuck his leg down through the ceiling from the attic and it appeared it were hidden original ceiling paintings underneath. These have been repainted and are today part of the logo on tableware, chairs, carpets etc.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
A curiosity is that the first indoor bathroom in Norway was especially made for the king at Losby Gods

Worthy of a king
The Boecks had their own woman’s and gentleman’s parlors and library. On first floor you also find the Haakon Suite, named after the late King Haakon VII of Norway. A curiosity is that the first indoor bathroom in Norway was especially made for the king at Losby Gods. It still exists, but only for exhibition. However, In the Haakon suite, you can sleep in the king’s old bed. He was nearly two meters tall, and the manor’s original beds were too short, and this bed was made for especially for him, a real king size bed, so to speak.

The suite is delicately decorated with soft colors, a separate dining room and lounge, a balcony, a bedroom and a large spa, with sauna, jacuzzi and a special mirror.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Dining room
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
A living museum
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Guests may get lost in this affluent estate

Related: The Taste of a Typical Norwegian Dinner

guests may get lost in this affluent estate
Christmas feeling
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
The hotel was brimming with Christmas decorations
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Christmas in the ballroom

Christmas and New Year’s Celebration at Losby Gods
On our visit, the historical rooms have several Christmas decorations and Christmas trees and we noticed businessmen having earnest conversations over coffee while families were enjoying afternoon tea. In spite of the corona crisis, Heidi Elisabeth tells us that they’ve decided to have the hotel open for guests during the Christmas month and New Year period, run mainly by family members and a few voluntary staff members.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
The Losby mansion house is steeped in history with elegant period features
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
The perfect setting for guests to escape the cold
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Old horse carriage in the reception area

The Losby mansion house is steeped in history with elegant period features, providing the perfect setting for guests to escape the cold and immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit. The Christmas themed ballroom on the first floor for example is a magical winter wonderland.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
From the Compagniet bar in the basement

New private rooms in the basement
In the basement of Losby Gods you may enjoy a new part of the mansion. The former sauna department was hit by fire in 2016 and has now been transformed to Compagniet, a hotel bar, even with a secret room.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
The ‘secret’ room in the basement
A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Paintings on the wall in the ‘secret’ room

With pool table and darts, Compagniet is ideal for private groups and parties who want to enjoy all or part of the evening in exclusive, yet relaxing surroundings. Sink into comfortable lounges and seating areas, or at the bar where the bartender fills the glasses with precious drops.

Arrange an informal competition at the 2 pool tables, 2 shuffleboards and dart board. Give your company a very special experience with an aperitif in the Compagniet, or end the evening with a fun game night that your guests always bear in mind. Hidden somewhere in Compagniet there is also a “secret” door. It leads into Herresæte – the hotel’s new and beautiful Chambre Séparée which you can rent for dinner.

The inspiration for the name “Compagniet” arrived from the three businessmen and brothers-in-law Thorvald Meyer, Thomas Heftye and Thomas Sewell, who were the owners of “Laasby Compagni” in the period 1855-1859. Compagniet and Herresæte can also be rented for the whole evening, or just for a few hours.

Related: A Merry Scandinavian Christmas with Song and Music

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Salted trout called rakørret

Traditional Christmas dinner at Losby Gods
In the evening, my partner and I were lucky enough to sample the festive menu, full of fabulous ingredients, unfortunately not accompanied by Christmas beer and aquavit due to corona restrictions. But Christmas is here, and families and couples can still celebrate with a stay in this winter wonderland themed hotel.

The traditional Christmas dinner at the hotel restaurant was a delight. As starters we had salted trout called rakørret. The fish has been salted and autolyzed for two to three months, maybe even up to a year. The Rakfisk is then eaten without cooking and has a mild and slightly salty flavor and strong smell.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Juletallerken – traditional Christmas menu

The main dishes consisted of a traditional Christmas menu (juletallerken) and lutefisk respectively. The Christmas menu consists of ribbe, (pork ribs), and several side dishes like sauerkraut, red cabbage, patties, sausages and potatoes.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
The lutefisk was as usual served with a variety of side dishes

The lutefisk was as usual served with a variety of side dishes, such as bacon, green pea stew, potatoes, lefse and melted butter. A worthy christmas dinner for a very Christmassy stay at an award-winning Norwegian hotel.

Breakfast the next day consisted of an extensive buffet ranging from croissants, cereal and yogurt to gravadlax, pate and a whole range of hotplates containing sausages, crispy bacon, fried eggs, mushrooms and tomatoes.

During the pandemic the hotel has decided to replace the buffet with dishes served at the table. The experience is that guests are more than pleased and it’s saving lot of food-waste. Heidi Elisabeth tells us that concerns about sustainability probably leads to that the buffet will be permanently replaced by table servings.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
Gingerbread house made by family members

If you just want to visit Losby Gods for a day trip, we recommend their Afternoon tea. Imagine white tablecloths and stately covers. A delicious 3-storey dish with delicious temptations, small bowls with accessories and shiny glass – the perfect setting for a pleasant time with good friends. Find out availability here.

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel
“It’s evident that 70 rooms for a 9.500 sq. meter (102.257 sq. feet) hotel is far from optimal seen from a financial viewpoint,” says hotel manager Heidi Elisabeth Fjellheim.  Application for permission to an extension of 70 extra rooms has been with the authorities for several year. Heidi Elisabeth is an optimist and believes the grant will one day be given.

She adds: “We pride ourselves on providing great accommodation options for families and businesses, and we always strive to make our guests’ breaks as memorable as possible.”

A Very Christmassy Stay at Award-Winning Norwegian Hotel, written by Tor Kjolberg

All photos by Tor Kjolberg, except feature image (on top) © Losby Gods

Danish ‘Word of the Year’ 2020

Tor Kjølberg
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Danish ‘Word of the Year’ 2020

Towards the end of each year, Dansk Sprognævn (the Danish Language Council) and P1 radio station select Denmark’s word of the year. Inevitably capturing the (sometimes unflattering) mood of the times, previous winners have included klimatosse (“climate idiot”) in 2019 and hvidvask (“money laundering”) in 2018. Find out what became the Danish “Word of the Year” 2020.

The country that introduced the world to “hygge” now has another term for us: “samfundssind” – which is loosely translated as “community spirit” or “social mindedness”. The Danish Language Council defines it as “putting the concern of society higher than one’s own interests”.

This term has become more and more relevant during the time of COVID-19 and by searching a database of Danish news, the language council found that usage of “samfundssind” increased from just 23 times in February to 2,855 in March.

Danish ‘Word of the Year’ 2020
samfundssind” is loosely translated as “community spirit” or “social mindedness”

Related: 5 Scandinavian Life Philosophies that Can Make You Happier

In March, the term was used by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who noted a press conference: “We have to stand together by keeping our distance… We need community spirit. We need help. I would like to thank … all who have so far shown that this is exactly what we have in Denmark — samfundssind.”

And the Danish people and companies responded immediately, with private companies getting medical equipment to help alleviate some of the pressure on healthcare services, part of the Denmark Helping Denmark campaign, prompting the  Danish Medicines Agency’s Director General Thomas Senderovitz to commend them, saying the response showed “incredible goodwill and community spirit,” according to the BBC.

“There is a strong tradition of community spirit in Denmark,” said Eva Skafte Jensen, senior researcher at the Danish Language Council. “In the 19th Century, this was seen in the way people in the countryside established andelsbevægelsen (co-operatives) focused on common goals. Dairy farmers would team up to finance jointly owned dairies [and] farmers and other country people would form consumer co-ops, thus circumventing the monopoly of private merchants of groceries… This idea was also brought into the workers’ movements where it helped to build strong unions.”

Related: Danish Happiness Explained

Danish ‘Word of the Year’ 2020
Double Michelin-starred restaurant, Alchemist, began cooking pasta for 12 homeless shelters in Copenhagen

In 2020, the Lego factory manufactured visors for healthcare workers; the amusement park Tivoli Gardens turned into a temporary kindergarten; and double Michelin-starred restaurant, Alchemist, began cooking pasta for 12 homeless shelters in Copenhagen. As the BBC notes that while the word is now used on social media as a hashtag to highlight kind acts, “perhaps most importantly, everyday people showed community spirit by following the rules.”

Danish ‘Word of the Year’ 2020, written by Tor Kjolberg

Feature image (on top): Photo by Ani Kolleshi / Unsplash

One of Norway’s Most Interesting Acts of Electronic Music

Tor Kjølberg
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One of Norway’s Most Interesting Acts of Electronic Music

23-year-old Niilas from Bergen, Norway follows in the footsteps of Röyksopp, Bjørn Torske, Prins Thomas, Casiokids and Lindstrøm, just to mention a few of Norway’s electronica aces. Niilas self-released recently his debut album Also This Will Change, influenced from UK-club music. Read more about one of Norway’s most interesting acts of electronic music.

His debut album is a 50 minute’s journey into a unique eclectic and emotional musical universe. The young kid from Bergen has already remixed Sondre Lerche and Stockhaus but he also embraces his Sami ancestry as a part of his creative life.

One of Norway’s Most Interesting Acts of Electronic Music
Also This Will Change, record cover

Related: Norwegian Electronica Artist André Bratten

“Also This Will Change” focus on the everlasting movement of the universe, according to the artist. “It is a reminder for all of us, that this year is almost over, and indeed, also will change.”

The title refers to a snowy night in February, before covid, and any of us could know what this year would bring us. Attending a program for composing a piece of music for a 3-piece ensemble (Bit-20 in Bergen, Norway), one of the other composers had used the title “This Too Shall Pass” for his piece. Without delving too deep into the story, the title comes from a Persian myth about a king, who had a ring made with that inscription on it. It was there to remind him in bad times, that it will pass, and good times come around. But he would also learn that this goes both ways, and he would lose it all again. Niilas modified the title.

One of Norway’s Most Interesting Acts of Electronic Music
The young kid from Bergen also embraces his Sami ancestry as a part of his creative life. Photo: Redbull

Related: The Rise and Rise of Norwegian Dance Music

First track is the majestic ‘My Heavenly’ which is an uplifting and melodic piece with rich arps and glowing pads. Then follows ‘What U Want’, which marries clean and bright synths with a rugged minimal rhythm. There is a freeform jazz nature to the fantastic keys and lively drum work of ‘Chaga’ before ‘Verdens Finste’ (‘World’s Finest) sinks you into a world of refracted melody and jittery beats, with soaring pads making for a classy celestial mood.

One of Norway’s Most Interesting Acts of Electronic Music
The future of Norwegian electronic music seems to be in safe hands with Niilas

Related: The Norwegian Dance-Pop Wizard

The mix of live-keys and British grooves, and tension between technological innovations and more natural melodies, is what makes this such a thrilling album from start to finish. The future of Norwegian electronic music seems to be in safe hands.

One of Norway’s Most Interesting Acts of Electronic Music, written by Tor Kjolberg

The Rugged Coast of Sweden

Tor Kjølberg
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The Rugged Coast of Sweden

The province of Bohuslän begins north of Gothenburg. To see the coast, head 15km (9 miles) west from Kungälv on route 168 past Tjuvkil where you can catch a ferry to Marstrand, a car-free town and a popular holiday resort and sailing center. Returning to the mainland and driving towards Norway, you can experience the rugged coast of Sweden.

In Marstrand the dominating attraction is Carlstens Fästning (Fortress) which offers the best view of the island.

The Rugged Coast of Sweden – Part 2
Tjörn is beautiful, with some barren areas inland and a fascinating coastline. Photo: Västsverige

Related: Fashionable Särö in Sweden

The islands Tjörn and Orust
Beyond Marstrand lie the islands of Tjörn and Orust, connected by bridge to the mainland. Tjörn is beautiful, with some barren areas inland and a fascinating coastline. A magnificent curved bridge links Tjörn to Orust. This island, the third-largest in Sweden, has its quota of fishing villages, including the Mollösund, Ellös and Käringön.

The Rugged Coast of Sweden – Part 2
Lysekil comes to life in the summer with several excursions to the islands and sea fishing trips. Photo: Västsverige

Lysekil comes to life in summer
Returning to the mainland, take a ferry across the Gullmarn, Sweden’s only genuine fjord, from Fiskebäckskil to Lysekil. Lysekil comes to life in the summer with several excursions to the islands and sea fishing trips.

Havets Hus (sea aquarium) includes a tunnel aquarium containing rays and sharks.

Related: A Summer Playground for Scandinavians

The Rugged Coast of Sweden – Part 2
Smögen is a favorite stop for boats. Photo: Wikipedia

A favorite stop for boats
North of Lysekil on the Sotenäs peninsula, the small harbor of Smögen is a favorite stop for boats. The main attraction is the wooden, waterside boardwalk, where you can shop, stroll and lounge.

The other attraction is fresh shrimp. Watch a fish auction and then go round the corner to buy some of the catch.

At Åby Säteri, 17km (11 miles) northeast of Smögen, is Nordens Ark, a nature park featuring endangered species and old breeds of Nordic farm animals.

Related: The Rocky West Coast of Sweden

Strömstad is a health resort noted for its long hours of sunshine. Photo: Wikipedia

Towards Norway
The last town before the Norwegian frontier is Strömstad, a health resort noted for its long hours of sunshine. Strömstad shrimps are considered by the local inhabitants to be in a class of their own, with a distinctive mild flavor. The district has more than a touch of Norwegian about it, having been part of Norway until 1717.

The Rugged Coast of Sweden, written by Tor Kjolberg.

Feature image (on top): Väderöerna. Photo: Roger Borgelid/Västsverige

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget

Tor Kjølberg
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7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget

In the southern region of Sweden, northeast of Malmö, there is a special secret waiting to be explored. In Lund, you are sure to be blown away by the wonders it has to offer. For students hoping to explore with a budget, here is our take on the seven best things to do In Lund, Learn the 7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget.

Facts About The City of Lund
Lund is a typical but small Swedish city in Skåne County, the southernmost region of Sweden.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget
Lund is a typical but small Swedish city in Skåne County, the southernmost region of Sweden

Being the second oldest town in Sweden, the charming city is most popular for its prestigious university, Lund University. It is also believed to have been founded late in the 10th century and is always found teeming with bits and pieces of history dating back to the medieval ages.

Lund was once the revered seat of an archbishopric that held unparalleled authority over all of the Nordic countries. These countries include Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland. The city is famously admired for being a green city. Although it may not be as famous as Stockholm or Gothenburg, it is a fantastic place with high-spirited student life and the perfect balance of everything.

Related: Four Charming Towns in Southern Sweden

Lund Cathedral
As we stated above, there is always something spectacular to marvel over in Lund, and its historic Cathedral is its main attraction. Locally referred to as the Lunds Domkyrka, the Cathedral began construction around 1080 AD.  This makes it one of the oldest churches in Sweden.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget
. Locally referred to as the Lunds Domkyrka, the Cathedral began construction around 1080 AD. Photo: Wikipedia

The church’s unique exterior has remained untouched since it was last renovated by architect Helgo Zettervall at the end of the 1800s. Check out the magnificently sculpted pillars and the altar from 1123. Upstairs, you will find an incredible astronomical 1380 clock. This clock functions with two automaton knights marking the hours and the astronomical dial made to mark the direction of the sunset and the phases of the moon.

Finally, in the choir, there are 14th-century stalls dimly-lit because of the narrow Romanesque windows. See where the magnificent gilded Gothic altarpiece dates to 1382 as you proceed to the altar. There are no entrance fees or additional costs to enter the Cathedral unless you intend to buy some brochures or a guided tour—a budget-friendly way to travel into the past.

Related: Apple Art in Southern Sweden

Continue to read 7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget

Lund’s Open-Air Museum, Kulturen
Yet another history-defining accessory of Lund, the town’s open-air museum is believed to be the second oldest in Sweden after Stockholm’s Skansen. Opened in 1892, Kulturen offers a great number of preserved rural buildings from the past two centuries, as well as indoor displays of history and crafts. Here, you will find gardens and cottages open to the public all through the year, providing a curious persuasive essay writer an excellent way to learn about the town’s medieval history.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget
Lund’s open-air museum is believed to be the second oldest in Sweden after Stockholm’s Skansen

In all, there are around 30 exhibition rooms in this wonderful museum. These rooms allow you to immerse yourself in the daily life on the Lund Peninsula in eras long gone. The larger buildings are galleries for the museum’s collection of more than two million artefacts, including Scanian jewellery, silver, and porcelain.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget
Founded in the early 13th century, Lund University is one of Sweden’s oldest and ranks among the world’s top 100 universities

Lund University
Founded in the early 13th century, Lund University is one of Sweden’s oldest and ranks among the world’s top 100 universities. While exploring, you can spend some time walking the university grounds and extensive gardens. You will marvel at the gigantic library, the architecture, the museum, and lots more.

Related: Top Scandinavian Universities for Foreigners

Stadsparken
Lund’s city park, Stadsparken, is a superb place to relax and have all the fun with friends, family, and even alone. There is an excellent skate park, a climbing rock, and an indoor swimming pool. Stadsparken also offers you an outdoor gym, a 10-kilometre hiking trail, and a parkour course for the more adventurous thrill-seeking visitors.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget
Stadsparken is a superb place to relax and have all the fun with friends, family, and even alone

For visitors who opt for relaxation, Stadsparken also has sprawling lush lawns to do so, with paths surrounded by ancient hardwood trees. The park also has a formal garden that boasts of over 7000 perennials. This certainly proves just how green and eco-friendly the town truly is.

Botanical Garden
Since 1690, Lund University has painstakingly managed this botanical garden. Many swear that the best time to visit the Botanical Garden is from May to July, when the gardens are most flamboyant with colourful flowers. The garden, which is located in central Lund, is always open to the public daily without charge.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget
Borgen at Botanical garden. Photo: Wikimedia commons

Sitting on an impressive 8 hectares, it boasts of over 7000 species of plants, of which 200 are found in the greenhouses representing nine different climate zones. The Botanical Gardens and Stadsparken each have their own café for coffee breaks.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget
Skissernas museum allows you to see preliminary sketches and artistic creations by more than a thousand artists from various countries. Photo: Åkeson Lindman

Museum of Public Sketches
With this museum, Lund offers yet another one-of-a-kind experience. The museum allows you to see preliminary sketches and artistic creations by more than a thousand artists from various countries. Outside, you can browse the sculpture park with 20 works by popular Swedish artists like Elli Hemberg and Arne Jones. This quickly translates into an art-lover’s dream.

Drotten Church Ruins
Before the Reformation in the 15th century, this 51-meter, 11th-century church in the center of Lund was the seat of the archbishopric before it was torn down during the Reformation. It was not until the 70s and 80s that the site was rediscovered and excavated. The remnants were then cleverly put on display in an underground museum exhibition.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget
Before the Reformation in the 15th century, this 51-meter, 11th-century church in the center of Lund was the seat of the archbishopric before it was torn down during the Reformation. Photo: Wikipedia

You do not need to pay a dime to see this stunning glimpse of the past as entrance is free. There are also information boards that explain the significance of the ruins. Several artefacts were also discovered in ruins and are also available in the exhibition.

Because there are many more fun things to do in Lund, the city uses a bike-sharing system, which has 250 bikes over 17 stations. Not only do you get to explore the breathtaking green scenery, but you also get to move through the city with ease and child-like wonder.

7 Best Things To Do In Lund, Sweden On Student Budget, written exclusively for Daily Scandinavian by Karl Murphy. Karl is a professional journalist from Des Moines, Iowa. After obtaining his Master’s degree, he’s launched his career and over its course, Karl was contributing to the popular publications for men. He’s passionate about eSports, so now he develops his blog csgo-bettingsites.com.

The Red Cottages in Sweden

Tor Kjølberg
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The Red Cottages in Sweden

Driving along Swedish countryside, you’ll see one cottage after another all painted in red – a bright crimson red with white trimmings on the windows. Nearly all countryside cottages and barns in Sweden are voluntarily red. The story behind the traditional red color of many of Sweden’s buildings is more interesting than it may seem. Red more about the red cottages in Sweden.

According to Wikipedia, «the pigment historically originated from mines at Falun, in the province of Dalarna, Sweden. It was a side product of calcination of copper ore. Mixed with linseed oil and rye flour, it was found to form an excellent anti-weathering paint.

The Red Cottages in Sweden
According to Wikipedia, «the pigment historically originated from mines at Falun, in the province of Dalarna, Sweden

The earliest evidence of the use of Falu red dates from the 16th century. During the 17th century, Falu red was commonly used on smaller wooden mansions, where it was intended to imitate buildings with brick facing.

Related: 10 Things I Hate and Love About Sweden

In Swedish cities and towns, wooden buildings were often painted with Falu red, until the early 19th century, when authorities began to oppose use of the paint. Increasingly many wooden buildings in urban areas had by then begun to be either painted in lighter colors such as yellow or white, or to be sided with stucco.

222 kilometers north-west of Stockholm, lies the small town called Falun. Known for its ski jumps and even hard rock at the Sabaton Open Air festival, its biggest claim to fame however comes from the copper mines and the Falu red.

In fact, one company has exclusive rights to the source of the iconic pigment that may last just a century more.  NCS S5040-Y80R may sound like a Nasa space shuttle, but it’s actually the Swedish color code for Falu red, the shade you see on thousands of buildings across the country. At one time it was also popular because it could make a building resemble European red-brick houses, which were mostly owned by wealthy tradesmen.

The Red Cottages in Sweden
In Swedish cities and towns, wooden buildings were often painted with falu red, until the early 19th century

Related: Open House Exhibition in Sweden

When the mines had extracted the ore to ground level, it had to be further burned to get rid of the sulfur and iron (oxidation), which created a cinder of red iron ocher or hematite, called rödmull (red soil). This rödmull was piled outside the mine as waste. Until someone found out a wood pole that had been sitting on the mound of rödmull showed no sign of rot or decay. This finding pushed forward the mass production of a paint based on rödmull mixed with water, rye flour and linseed oil.

Today the mine is a museum and UNESCO World Heritage site, but at one point in history, it was the largest copper mine in Europe and the economic anchor of the Swedish kingdom.

You don’t need to travel much in Sweden to realize that the majority of the houses, barns, cottages and summer houses are painted Falu red. Even in the main cities like the capital Stockholm and the second largest city Gothenburg, there are a lot of buildings in the centers painted Falu red.

Related: Swedish Village for Sale

The Red Cottages in Sweden
You don’t need to travel much in Sweden to realize that the majority of the houses, barns, cottages and summer houses are painted Falu red

Falu red has been a consistent symbol of pastoral life in Sweden and has also influenced bordering countries like Norway and Finland, and even USA, in the form of the big red barns. Today, the red paint can be bought in hardware stores across Sweden.

The paint became so popular that it was used almost on any building or structure. Probably you’ve seen the famous Swedish figure the Dala Horse. If not, you find it as no. 29 of the 55 reasons to visit Sweden.

The Red Cottages in Sweden, written by Tor Kjolberg

All images Visit Sweden, except feature image (on top) by Wikimedia commons

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts

Tor Kjølberg
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Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts

The gifting season is upon we’ve rounded up some of our favorite items, from affordable to splashy, from fun gifts like personalized mousepads to the most luxurious perfumes and even a few pieces of furniture that every home will benefit from. Whether you’re shopping for a design-lover, a constant traveler, a bookworm, or just a regular ole Scandiphile, you’ll find what you need in your ultimate guide to Scandinavian Christmas gifts!

Do you leave the annual gift shopping to the very last minute or have you already bought the bulk of your gifts by the time Christmas chocolate hit the stores? Most of these items, will reach you before Christmas eve – depending, of course, where in the world you’re living.

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts
Book: Scandinavian Comfort Food

Scandinavian Comfort Food
The Scandinavians excel in comfort – family, friends, a good atmosphere, long meals, relaxation and an emphasis on simple pleasures. They even have a word for this kind of coziness that comes with spending quality time in hearth and home when the days are short: hygge. Trine Hahnemann is the doyenne of Scandinavian cooking and loves nothing more than spending time in her kitchen cooking up comforting food in good company. This is her collection of recipes that will warm you up and teach you to embrace the art of hygge, no matter where you live. £13.36 Order

Get in the Christmas mood by reading Scandinavian Christmas Decorations

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts
Scandinavian knot cushions

Scandinavian Knot Cushion
Knot cushions can be used in sofa, car seat, on a bench in the balcony, on the bed, with these sweet cute to dress up your home. £25.30 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts
Scandinavian plywood contemprary bench

Scandinavian plywood contemporary Bench
Bench uses premium 24mm thick Baltic birch plywood coated with white melamine film bench top and 45mm solid Beech legs. Natural birch legs harmonize with bench top edges, treated with ecologically pure beeswax. All exposed plywood edges are treated with ecologically pure beeswax.

This product is flat-packed. Simple assembly of the products will be required.

Available in two sizes: Small bench 120 cm Large bench 150 cm

Color: Green, Pink, Dark Grey, Light Grey. £114.60 Order

How about creating a personalized Christmas card for your friends and family using Mixbook’s Christmas card templates? Add your favorite memories and a heartfelt message to make it extra special!

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsScandinavian Explorer Ultra light down jacket lady ¾
3/4 length ultra light winter down Jacket for Women comes in an attractive design. It is warm but lightweight, stylish and protective outwear made by Scandinavian Explorer experts to provide protection against all the elements. It is made with 2 – layer construction, with 90% down and 10% feather for additional warmth. The lining is 100% made of nylon. Down used in products by Scandinavian Explorer is certified as a bi-product of food production. It dries fast and it is light to wear. The collar is high and the hood is big enough so it ensures full coverage. This classic Norwegian design is easy to combine with both sporty and casual wear. The jacket also comes in different sizes. NOK 995.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsScandinavian Explorer Ultra light down jacket unisex
Unisex ultra light down jacket for comes in 2-layer construction and it’s made of 90% protective down and 10% feather for additional warmth. It is insulated with warm and soft feathers. The fluffiness of the down creates tiny air pockets that trap warm air and retain heat. This model comes with a hood. Design is really soft and light so the jacket is easy to pack. It is coated with a water repellent finish and down-proof by high-density fabric. Suitable for both sporty and more casual wear. It is easy to pack so it’s perfect to take it on a trip. Available in different sizes. 895,00 NOK. Order

Get in the Christmas mood by reading The Taste of a Typical Norwegian Christmas

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsDale of Norway Christmas Feminine Sweather
A classic, yet sophisticated Christmas sweater, inspired by the Norwegian Christmas: Reindeer, Christmas trees, falling snow – it’s all there. And in the center, like a Christmas star, the traditional Norwegian eight-petal rose. Made with 100% soft and light merino wool, it’s classy for the indoors, yet toasty for the outdoors. With matching Christmas sweaters for men and kids, there’s only one thing to do: Outfit the family for this year’s Christmas photo! 2299.00 NOK Order

 Scandinavian Turquoise Leaves Original
Abstract Mid Mod Color Original Giclée fine art print. Small A4 (21×29.7cm), Medium A3 (29.7x42cm), Large A2 (42×59.4cm) and Extra Large A1 (59.4x84cm) sizes available both as a framed print or print only.

All of our prints are made to order and are printed onto 230gsm matt coated heavyweight art paper using vibrant 12-colour ink digital processes. The special formulation of the ink used combined with the great quality media means this print stays vibrant and vivid and prevents colour fade over time.

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsAll of our A4 prints are packed into a clear cellobag with a reinforced backing card and are shipped in a black gusset envelope.

Alternatively, you can choose to have your print framed by our in-house team who manufacture all our frames by hand to order. Options of black grain wood, white grain wood or honey oak finish wood are available. Solid wood from FSC accredited sources. Made with shatterproof crystal clear styrene glazing for safety during transportation and also to ensure longevity of the product within the home. Every frame is hand taped to the rear to preserve the look of the framed print and is finished with white corner protectors and a protective film wrap. Frames arrive ready to hang on the wall and admire for years to come!

All orders are packaged securely in a reinforced cardboard wrap to arrive safely at your door.

Shipping: All UK framed orders are shipped on a 24hr tracked and signed service with DHL. A4 Print only’s are shipped with Royal Mail 1st Class Signed for. International framed orders are shipped with DPD and internatianl print orders are shipped with Royal Mail International Tracked And Signed. Shipping time varies for overseas delivery. Most orders received before 12pm are shipped the very same day!

Art print from an original by PrintPunkStudio © £9.95 Order

Scandinavian Overture Wallpaper
Resistant, water-rejecting and scratch-proof fleece wallpaper “Scandinavian Overture”. Wallpaper “Scandinavian Overture” with the inspiring motive will be an effective eye-catch for each interior. Fleece wallpapers are attached to the wall with special glue. They can be installed in each room even in the bath or in the kitchen. Fleece wallpaper, halfmatte coating. 100% fleece – covers small unevenness of the wall. It creates a thermal insulation layer and allows the walls to breathe. Water resistant printing is very durable.

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsHigh-quality printing
Digital quality printing with a resolution of up to 600 dpi in unique technology as well as vibrant colors makes that the fleece wallpaper fills your interior and enlarges it.

Easy installation
The wallpaper consists of strips, which are convienient in assembling, with a width of 50cm.

Ecological and safe
Using safe materials, we can recommend our patterns also for the bedroom as well as for the room of your children.

Safe packaging
The wallpaper is rolled in and brand new packed from the factory into a rigid cardboard, which guarantees safety in the transportation. Each cardboard with the wallpaper contains an installation instruction. £41.64 Order

Get in the Christmas mood by reading The Scandinavian Christmas Card Story

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsScandinavian Kuksa Teak Wood
A large Kuksa cup with double handle. A large Kuksa cup with double handle. Made of Wisdomoro, the cup is completely waterproof and superbly comfortable in use. Made in Indonesian using ancient know-how.

Rinse after each use with clean water. Do not use detergents, and do not machine wash. If the Kuksa needs more thorough cleaning, you can rub it with fine sand for a slightly abrasive effect.

Cup Size: Diameter: 8 cm glass. High: 6 cm. Handle length 7 cm.  £35.81 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts
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Arctic Circle Himmel Cardigan
The lovely and authentic design of HIMMEL sweater by Arctic Circle all together with 100% pure wool makes this cardigan ideal for cold days. Himmel is a Norwegian word for the sky! This warm jacket is a combination of eight-petal Selbu rose, and the traditional snow crystals. It is decorated with pewter hooks and embroidery band around neck opening lines. This cardigan – like authentic jacket can be really nice present for those in love with Scandinavian heritage. It is an extraordinary buy yet you can combine them with jeans or pants, in general with casual wear. Made of high-quality wool that does not irritate the skin. Designed and knitted in Norway. NOK 1349.00 Order 

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsArctic Circle Norwool Setesdal Jacket
NOK 1399 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsDale of Norway Christmas Kids Sweater
A fun, yet stylish Christmas sweater for kids, with reindeer, Christmas trees and falling snow. Made with 100% soft and itch-free merino wool, it’s classy for the indoors, yet toasty for the outdoors. With matching Christmas sweaters for mom and dad, there’s only one thing to do: Outfit the family for this year’s Christmas photo! NOK 1199.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsHappy Whale in The Ocean
High quality personalized mouse pad, A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevent the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable.Matte finish image will not fade or peel. 1.Vibrant Picture Perfect Colors – The Highest Quality Images available; 2.Personalized pattern about beautiful picture; 3.Size: 10.2 x 8.2 in. / 26 x 21cm x 0.3 cm; 4.Provides excellent mouse tracking for a ball or optical mouse; 5.It is also a good idea to send it as a gift to your friends; 6.Non-slip backing; Size: 220X180X3, 260X210X3, 300X250X3 £6.68 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsEquimins Scandinavian Seaweed – 2 Kg Eco Pack
A pure, natural product with no additives, contains 60 different minerals and trace elements. Adds lustre to the coat and improves hoof condition. Do not exceed the stated feeding rate. Contains no banned substances under Jockey Club and FEI rules. £23.20 Order

 

Dale of Norway Garmisch masculine sweaterYour Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts
Comfortable and authentic men’s sweater inspired by the official Garmisch World Championship sweater from 1978. The main design element is the traditional eight-petal Selbu rose. Winter motives and traditional Norwegian elements are trending every cold season and easy to combine with casual wear. It is a perfect warm piece of wardrobe to wear with jeans or pants. One of the trademarks of Dale of Norway’s knitwear is long-lasting knitting quality. The sweater is made of 100% skin soft merino wool and provides warmth and comfort without bulk and irritation or itching. It is easy to take care of – the white colour is stain-resistant. Matching Garmisch hat, headband and scarf.
NOK 2499.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsDale of Norway Christmas Hat
Amazing Christmas hat that will complete your Christmas outfit. Fits perfectly on both man and women. Winter hat that never goes out of style. Design inspired by Norwegian winter motives like raindeers, snow and Christmas tree. Made out of 100% soft merino wool. Itch free. Unisex fit. It can also be an amazing Christmas gift. You will only need to wrap it up.
NOK 599.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsDale of Norway Podium Hat
Sporty premium quality hat with a fresh look based on old Norwegian patterns and the Norwegian flag striped cross. Official team knitwear for the national Norwegian handball team and the national Norwegian cross-country ski team for the 2019-2020 season. Made with 100% light and soft merino wool. Matching Podium sweaters and Trondheim jackets. Made from 100% high-quality skin soft merino wool, itch-free and comfortable. Suitable for both casual and sporty outfits. Easy to wear and combine. Unisex, one size fits most. Designed and knitted in Norway. The hat is easy to be taken care of – you can wash it in washing machine using wool-cycle. NOK 499.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsViking Game with Wooden Pins from Scandinavia
TREND SPORT! Numbers Kubb is a fun throwing game that trains motor skills and understanding of numbers. If you like Viking Chess, you will love Numbers Kubb.

OUTDOOR FUN! The original Numbers Kubb game is an ideal outdoors game, whether you play it in the garden, the park or on the camping site – you can take your Finn Kubb game everywhere!

FOR YOUNG AND OLD! The rules of Kubb are easy to learn. Up to 6 people can play this game of skill. 100% fun up to any age! £49.18 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsScandinavian Crime by Laurent Mazzone Extrait De Parfum Spray 3.4 oz
£273.66 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsViva Jaimi Tea Cosy by Viva Scandinavia
Keep your favourite pot of tea warm with this tea cosy from VIVA. Decorated with a fun dash design, it’ll brighten up your kitchen surface. £20.28 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsDale of Norway Christiania Jacket
One of the most popular Dale of Norway’s knitwear is Christiania Women’s Jacket. Inspired by fashion trends of the early 20th century, features traditional Norwegian patterns and it’s unique item suitable for both formal and casual wear. It is also made of 100% high-quality soft merino wool, a perfect combination of style, comfort and protection. Decorative roll-up cuff and flattering side panels – a nod to the corset shape. This cardigan-like jacket is named after Christiania, the former name of Norway’s capital city, Oslo. Easy to wear and to take care of – the white colour is stain resistant so machine wash using wool-cycle is enough. Available in different sizes and colour options. NOK 3499.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsGloves with snowflakes from Norlender Knitwear
The beautiful snowflake gloves comes in four colorways, and one size. Made of 100% wool.
NOK 249.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsSkiing Pullover Narvik from Norlender Knitwear
Narvik is the perfect Norwegian skiing sweater featuring a zipper and a fleece lined collar. Made of 100% pure new wool. NOK 2099.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsBase Layer Set by Ella’s Wool
keeps your child warm all year round. $69.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsHandmade Scandinavian Tomte Nordic Nisse
£23.50 Order
Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts6 Colorful Scandinavian Christmas Gnomes
These 6 individual Swedish Christmas gnomes are double sided so decorate both the view from inside and outside of your home windows or shop window display. Traditionally known as Tomte or Nisse in Scandinavia these are perfect for any room in your house and they cling to the inside of your window. £7.63 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsAnti Cimex Hoodie Scandinavian Jawbreaker Band Logo Official Mens Black Pullover
£28.66 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts
Reindeer holiday charm

Reindeer Holiday Charm
This blush-pink reindeer charm in PANDORA Rose is filled with festive cheer. His glittering stone collar lends subtle sparkle to your style. NOK 549.00 Order

Rudolf pendant Scandinavian finish
Pendant Scandinavian finish 925s RH silver 2 x 0,005 ct. black brill and 1 x 0,03 ct. cabochon Greenland Ruby. Rudolph the Reindeer everyone knows, he shows Santa the way with his bright red nose.

Rudolph will do the same for you, he will help You showing the way wherever you go.

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsRudolph will guide you and be a best friend forever. The beautiful Ruby from Greenland has the power to bring luck, happiness, love, strength and not to forget, creativity. NOK 1995.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas GiftsSnowflake mesh bracelet
Symbolize the way you’ve trail blazed through your life, as well as the life story you are still waiting to unfold by wearing our Pandora Moments mesh bracelet. The sterling silver bracelet features a snowflake-shaped clasp that helps you remember your strength, passion and determination for life. Engraved with the empowering mantra “Shine Bright” and featuring a single cubic zirconia, this sterling silver charm bracelet encourages you to live by your own rules and be as unique as a snowflake. NOK 599.00 Order

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts2pcs/lot Nordic Walking Poles
Adjustable Trekking Poles Telescopic Scandinavian Walking Sticks Anti Shock Hiking Stick
£25.78 Order

Snowflakes necklace pendant
This snowflake necklace pendant is a real show-stopping piece of jewellery. The sterling silver pendant has been beautifully crafted from sterling silver to reveal an intricate snowflake design. It has been adorned with clear cubic zirconia to add a touch of sparkle!.
NOK 599.00 Order

As you might imagine, we absolutely love all things Scandinavian and there are so many things to buy. The above list is our first Christmas shop selection and will hopefully give you some inspiration for Scandinavian Christmas gifts, ranging from jewelry, clothes and cosmetics to entertainment and interior. Happy Christmas shopping!

Your Ultimate Guide to Scandinavian Christmas Gifts, compiled by the Daily Scandinavian team

Feature image (on top) © Photo by JESHOOTS.COM / Unsplash

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia

While dreaming of a Scandinavian travel, you can get your fill of inspiring books about this atmospheric region. From the Nordic Noir crime thrillers to thoughtful classics, you will find more than enough options to enhance your knowledge and cure wanderlust. And now that you are ready to discover this atmospheric region, check the top 7 books written about Scandinavia below.

You can contact the essay writing service to gain a better understanding of what to read. Alternatively, you can find this kind of information on the Internet.

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia
While following the protagonists’ footsteps in this book, you feel involved in the guided walking tour of Södermalm in the capital of Sweden

The Millennium Trilogy by Stieg Larsson
Nordic Noir has become an independent genre of itself, while the Millennium Trilogy is one of its most famous representatives. This hugely popular series of books by Swedish author Stieg Larsson needs no introduction. Even if you don’t know the book, you have definitely heard about the movie with the same name.

The trendy Södermalm district of Stockholm is the location for the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series. Its psychologically unstable heroine, genius computer hacker Lisbeth Salander, starts the war against corrupt politicians, human traffickers, and sex abusers by using the most violent and extreme methods. While following the protagonists’ footsteps, you feel involved in the guided walking tour of Södermalm.

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia

The Almost Nearly Perfect People by Michael Booth
Finding a really good book written about Scandinavian culture is not an easy thing to do. The Almost Nearly Perfect People written by Michel Booth has changed the situation for good. Instead of relying on the second opinion, the author explores the local cultures of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland using his own observations. While describing the great things about living in these countries, he tries to be objective. Even more importantly, he tries to be funny and sarcastic by reminding us that shit also happens in the Scandinavian region.

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia
The murder mysteries in this book are set in the small town of Ystad, the suburbs of Skane in southern Sweden

The Wallander detective series by Henning Mankell
Troubled police officer Kurt Wallander, the protagonist of this series of books, explores racism, crime, and corruption in the Swedish society. Every story goes through the prism of the detective’s battles against his own demons. The murder mysteries are set in the small town of Ystad, the suburbs of Skane in southern Sweden. Thus, the reader is given an opportunity to take a cycle tour to Ales Stenar, namely the place Wallander goes when he needs time to think.

Top 7 Books Written About ScandinaviaThe Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
The author describes the adventures of Allan Karlsson, the man who decides to leave a care home and wants to get more from life on his hundredth birthday. By following his hapless journey, we realize that this feisty old man’s background is more interesting than it seems. The narration takes place in Malmköping, a small town in Sweden. This location encourages atmospheric descriptions of the local beauty and funny moments with some of the modern leaders.

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia
Jo Nesbø is one of the most popular Scandinavian mystery writers

The Harry Hole Thrillers by Jo Nesbo
Jo Nesbø is one of the most popular Scandinavian mystery writers. His series of stories is considered to be among the world’s best-selling crime fiction works. The narration is focused on Harry Hole, a Norwegian detective with a messy private life who manages to solve a bunch of grisly crimes. Detailed descriptions of Oslo reflect a mysterious atmosphere in all 12 books in the series. Thus, the reader can explore the darkest sides of the city without actually seeing them.

Top 7 Books Written About ScandinaviaThe Summer Book by Tove Jansson
While Nordic writing is better known for its thrillers and mysteries, it still has something to offer to romantics. The Summer Book written by Tove Jansson is a lovely story about the relationship between a prickly old woman and her six-year-old granddaughter Sophia. After her mother’s death, the young girl has to spend the whole summer with her grandmother, who lives alone on the remote island in the Pellinge archipelago in the Gulf of Finland. While the accent is made on feelings and emotions rather than actions, the location aims to show the inner tranquility of the major characters. Throughout the narration, both Sophia and her grandmother begin to understand each other and bond through the prism of their love for the island.

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia
A selection of Magnus Nilsson’s photographs aims to demonstrate the Scandinavian beauty in all its expressions

Nordic: A Photographic Essay of Landscapes, Food and People Hardcover by Magnus Nilsson
A selection of Magnus Nilsson’s photographs aims to demonstrate the Scandinavian beauty in all its expressions. The author has been taking photographs for more than twenty years, so he has lots of interesting information about Nordic people and local culture to share with us. Being a famous chef and sommelier in Sweden, Nilsson pays special attention to the Scandinavian cuisine.

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia – The Bottom Line
As they say, it doesn’t take much to fall in love with Scandinavia. One book can be enough to spark a fascination with this region. Hopefully, the Scandinavian authors will provide you with the great start of a new reading journey.

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia
Amanda Dudley

Top 7 Books Written About Scandinavia, written sxclusively for Daily Scandinavian by Amanda Dudley. Amanda is a top-level editor at EssayUSA. Her experience as a writer has given her the required expertise to work on complicated tasks. Amanda also heads a team of professional writers dedicated to providing unparalleled quality in terms of content.

Feature image (on top): Photo by Priscilla Du Preez / Unsplash

Powerful Norwegian Architecture

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Powerful Norwegian Architecture

«None of us were prepared for the amount of media attention we received,” said Stein Hamre Architects (SHAAS) when the Øvre Forsland power station opened in 2015. Read more about the powerful Norwegian power station.

Standing strong on a riverbed in the wilderness of Helgeland, Øvre Forsland power station is truly something to behold. Jagged shards of grey wood meet glass at irregular intervals, while water rushes at its base. It’s certainly more striking than the hydroelectric power plants we’re used to see.

Powerful Norwegian Architecture
Øvre Forsland power plant. Photo: Helgelandskraft

Related: Rooms For Togetherness By Norwegian Architect

Sister plant Bjørnstokk
Its sister plant, Bjørnstokk, which was finished in 2017, is located in Tosbotn. Bjørnstokk reflects the beautiful surroundings and has a similar modern approach as Øvre Forsland, which has been referred to as the world’s most beautiful powerplant. Bjørnstokk is surrounded by huge rocks left over from the last ice age, the boulder-like station fits in perfectly with its surroundings.

Powerful Norwegian Architecture
Øvre Forsland power station is truly something to behold.

And that’s just the point, Helgelandkraft, a Norwegian producer of hydraulic electricity, makes sure its power stations adapt to what’s around them. That’s why the company commissioned Stein Hamre Architects (SHAAS), one of the leading architectural firms in Norway, to design Øvre Forsland and Bjørnstokk.

Related: Exciting Modern Architecture in Lillehammer

Powerful Norwegian Architecture
“Rather rhan trying to hide the huge construction, which would have been impossible, we decided to turn Øvre Forsland into an attraction, and hopefully also a destination for hikers,” said Stein Hamre at SHAAS

A power plant becomes an attraction
“Rather than trying to hide the huge construction, which would have been impossible, we decided to turn Øvre Forsland into an attraction, and hopefully also a destination for hikers,” said Stein Hamre. 80% of Norway’s electricity is produced with hydroelectric power.

Related: Portrait of a Norwegian Architect Company

Stein Hamre Architects
The firm was the right choice. Consisting of 18 individuals with different areas of expertise, the work it produces, from furniture to large-scale buildings like these, is dynamic.

Since the plant opened in 2015, it has also become a popular hiking destination.

Powerful Norwegian Architecture, is based on promotion material from the SHAAS.

Scandinavian Peas

Tor Kjølberg
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0
Scandinavian Peas

Peas, a delicacy loved by everyone, have always had a special place in our culinary hearts. Arguably, this is no longer the case with the advent of frozen peas; these are almost as good, but not quite, so it’s hard to get excited over the small, but important, difference. Read more about Scandinavian peas.

When you do find the perfect fresh pea, however, that is the moment you realize the small difference, which makes the time-consuming task of shelling peas very much worthwhile. Fresh peas, simply prepared, have the most exquisite taste – maybe it’s the taste of human effort.

Scandinavian Peas
Peas in pods. Photo: Wikipedia

History
Peas are one of the most ancient crops that man has grown: 10,000 years is an almost incomprehensibly vast span of time. Cultivation began in the fertile crescent of the Middle East, as with so many other crops, including barley, wheat, lentils and chick peas. Dried peas are good travelers, and hardier than other legumes, and we know that peas had reached Scandinavia by the late Stone Age and have been grown here since.

Related: Scandinavian Vegetables

Scandinavian Peas
Pea soup. Photo: Wikipedia

The first peas were meant for drying, and they are still part of northern tradition. Any pea can be dried and we have ancient cultivars that are not very good to eat as they are immature, bitter and mealy, as in most if the old world, but are perfect for drying. The oldest peas, found in tombs, are much the same as the field peas, meant for fodder, that we grow now. There is no evidence that peas were eaten fresh, but children probably ate fresh peas from the pod, just as they do now, scraping them from the shells with the teeth. Peas are perfect partners for wheat: when combined, they provide almost the complete protein, and man must have known then that you could survive on this, if meat was scarce. During the 17th century, pea cultivars were gradually improved, to become the large-podded and large-seeded shelling cultivars we grow today, they were, and are, a colossal improvement.

Appearance and taste
Dried peas last almost indefinitely. The only difference is that old peas, from pervious growing seasons, take longer to cook than more recently dried ones. Yellow split peas and green split peas are what you are after, in the Scandinavian context. Very similar versions can be found in Indian shops.

Fresh green peas are a different matter, their high sugar content is their reason of being, and this is converted into starch as they mature. Just 24 hours after picking, most of the sugar has gone. If you want fresh, sweet, tender green peas, you must grow your own or buy them at farmers’ markets, freshly picked.

Related: Scandinavian Food and Drink

Scandinavian Peas
Pea soup with crème frache and chicken bacon. Photo: Mills

Culinary uses
While our stock of recipes that feature peas is relatively small, the ones we have are simple, good and satisfying. Tender, fresh peas are best simply heated in butter until they turn frog-green, then seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic; in the right season, adding handfuls of chopped ramsons instead of clove garlic is very good. Peas are important in our so-called Russian salad (see below). Other peas can be fine for cooking, too. Dried peas are the basis of winter soups or are simply mashed with butter and thyme.

Related: Scandinavia Asparagus

Scandinavian Peas
Russian salad. Photo: Mynewsdesk

Russian salad
The name of this recipe probably comes from the green peas, reddish, carrots and white asparagus and the Italians called it insalata russa. But names aside, it’s extremely popular and if homemade, it is delicious. We can eat with ham, tongue and other salat meals, or as an topping on open sandwiches.

1 bundle of green or white asparagus
4 new carrots
200g freshly shelled peas
100 ml cider vinegar
100 ml crème fraiche
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
A little sugar
1 handful of cress or nasturtium flowers

Serves 4

Snap off the woody bottom part of asparagus and cut the rest into 2cm pieces. If using white asparagus, they must be peeled. Peel the carrots and cut into small dice. Steam all the vegetables in the vinegar and 200ml boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and cool.

Mix the crème fraiche, mustard and lemon juice to a smooth sauce and season to taste with the salt, pepper and sugar. Mix with the vegetables and decorate with the cress or nasturtiums before serving.

Scandinavian Peas, written by Tor Kjolberg

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