At the top of Förberget in Åre, Sweden, where the road ends, the mountain world’s only design hotel – in Sweden – is located. That’s at least what its website states. I doubt it’s a valid statement. But what is a design hotel really?
There is no shortage of books celebrating this type of popular accommodation. There is even a ‘bible’ for interior designers that is published annually, “The Design Hotels Book”. About the 2022 edition, the publishers say:
“Since 1993, we’ve been crafting a portfolio which today includes 300+ privately owned and operated hotels that reflect the vision of independent hoteliers—or “Originals”—with a passion for culturally-rooted hospitality and cutting-edge design and architecture. From the pioneering boutique hotels of New York, Paris, and London, to the rising stars of Mexico City, and Nairobi, to remote mountaintops, hidden beaches, and off-the-beaten-path escapes, each independent hotel in our hand-picked collection is a wholly unique creative expression, steeped in the history, culture, and the nature of its environment”.
The Mountain World’s Only Design Hotel – in Sweden? Article continues below image.
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But what is a design hotel really? We have visited several and do not necessarily share the description above. Often these hotels have history-less furniture copies, sloppy craftsmanship, short beds, minibars without alcohol and, not least, wannabe guests.
These guests let themselves be dazzled. To the extent that they forget the lack of room service, complicated key cards and shower facilities – and even typos in the welcome letters.
Copperhill Mountain Lodge has been represented in the annual report, but I think the Scandinavians have found their way back to the good, old style of family-owned hotels.
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At Copperhill you’ll enjoy comfortable rooms, locally produced food cooked with love, generous lounges for both large and small and a spa that has won the prize as Europe’s best.
And best of all, the mountain is literally right outside the door. The Copperhill Mountain Lodge is undoubtedly one of Åre’s finest design hotels, in a superb ski-in/out location on top of Förberget Mountain. Stylish, luxurious and with incredible architecture, the hotel will be a favorite for those looking for high standards, great service and beautiful rooms.
There is a large lobby bar with fireplace, the perfect spot for relaxing in the evenings over drinks or listening to music. The spa area features indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot springs and saunas, all with panoramic mountain views over Åreskuten.
Voted Sweden’s Best Ski Hotel 2014 & 2015, the luxurious Copperhill Mountain Lodge is still claiming it is one of just a few prestigious Design Hotels™ in the country.
So, let me be clear, Copperhill Mountain Lodge is a gem. But it is not the only mountain design hotel in the world.
The Mountain World’s Only Design Hotel – in Sweden? Written by Tor Kjolberg