As unique and original heritage hotels go, the Hotel Skeppsholmen in Stockholm is special. It’s a romantic, escapist property, in an unequalled setting on a spellbinding almost-private (there are few other residents besides hotel guests) island, right in the middle of the city. We’re sure you’ll absolutely adore it.
Amid the pulse of Stockholm, we discovered an exceptional retreat that promised tranquillity, history, and fine hospitality. Located on Skeppsholmen Island, it is accessible only by the Instagram-worthy Skeppsholmsbron bridge, ferry or private yacht. Hotel Skeppsholmen is truly unique. Housed in a pair of falu-yellow 17th-century Swedish Navy barracks – a heritage site deemed among the most valuable in Sweden – this property epitomises Swedish minimalism, right in the very heart of the city.
We experienced far more luxury than the sailors who once slept here, but each dormitory that previously housed nine has been transformed into contemporary rooms; in some cases, two or more have been combined to create suites. Beyond the Scandi-chic aesthetic, we couldn’t help but admire the effort that went into refurbishing this historic property. Creating a modern hotel while adhering to strict preservation orders is no easy feat (even installing a light switch required navigating red tape with the powers that be).
Yet, they have transformed it into an effortlessly comfortable, somewhat quirky property (you’ll understand when you encounter the ‘pebble sink’). It is an escapist haven and a masterclass in contemporary Swedish design. The hotel’s little idiosyncrasies – its soft furnishing textures, Byredo amenities and choice of art – make it an original in Stockholm’s crowded hotel scene, a place imbued with character and a deep respect for its history and setting.
Although the overall aesthetic is sleek and modern – clean lines, neutral tones and an understated Swedish knack for getting everything ‘just right’ – it also nods to the timelessness of life on the Stockholm archipelago. Look out the window and you’ll see the sea, locals perched along the waterfront, and sailboats bobbing gracefully into the marina.
Our room, a light-filled haven with oversized windows, offered an unmistakable sense of privacy and escapism. The bedding, as soft and inviting as the surrounding waters, paired with calming hues, created the perfect environment for unwinding after a day of exploring Stockholm. Every piece of furniture seemed carefully chosen to reflect Swedish sensibilities, yet there was a delightful sense of individuality – a quirky warmth that made the room feel uniquely ours.
| Perfect for | Fly into | Right on time |
| The Insider | ARN | GMT +1 |
| While you’re Out There |
| While this island escape may feel far removed from the city, the location is ideal for those looking to explore Stockholm’s cultural offerings. Within easy reach are world-class museums, including the Moderna Museet (Stockholm’s answer to the MoMA, its cafe has a stunning view over the water and it is a great place for the Swedish coffee-break that is fika) and the ArkDes (the museum of Swedish architecture and design), right next door. Also, right in front of the hotel in one of the old armouries, is one of the most sophisticated recording studios in the world, owned by Benny from ABBA. You’ll often see him there, or any number of Eurovision superstars and international recording artists that happen to be in town cutting an album. |
The friendly, impeccably dressed (ACNE Studios designed the uniform) team at Hotel Skeppsholmen were exceptional hosts, making our stay all the more special. Whether catering to our every whim at the front desk, serving us a delicious breakfast, or offering insights into the island’s hidden treasures, they did so with great poise and flair. On one balmy summer evening, the General Manager even treated us to champagne at one of his legendary lawn parties, a delightful touch that captured the hotel’s sense of community.
The hotel’s restaurant has mastered the art of Swedish cuisine with a modern twist. Set in an inviting open-plan space, it serves locally sourced dishes that blend Nordic tradition with contemporary flair. We dined on fresh fish and crisp vegetables – some grown in the hotel’s own island garden – all prepared with a refined, modern edge. And if you’re in search of the best Swedish meatballs in town, you needn’t look further. Here, they prepare them to perfection using a recipe handed down by the CEO’s grandmother.
That said, on a recent return visit, we couldn’t help but notice a slight lack of youthful energy and programming. While not unpleasant, and rather busy, the ambience – particularly in the restaurants during the evening – felt somewhat subdued, perhaps reflecting the hotel’s increasingly older clientele.
All this said and done, Hotel Skeppsholmen encapsulates Stockholm’s essence beautifully, offering guests a serene and almost secret escape. It’s this duality – being both in the city and away from it – that sets it apart. Despite being in the geographical centre of Stockholm, the island has a distinct holiday atmosphere. Surrounded by water, pleasure crafts, museums, and the distant thrills of Gröna Lund’s Tivoli across the bay, Skeppsholmen feels worlds apart from the urban hustle. So, for those seeking a hotel with an authentic sense of place in Stockholm, you would be hard-pressed to find better than Hotel Skeppsholmen.
Plus, for LGBTQI+ OutThere travellers, there is an added perk to staying here. The hotel is a proud founding member of Stockholm LGBT, the city’s network of LGBTQI+-owned, run and welcoming travel brands.
Photography courtesy of Hotel Skeppsholmen
