Arriving in Stockholm!
For miles, the view out our train window was fields of yellow. This flower is in the mustard family and makes a vegetable oil used throughout Sweden. We were lucky enough to see the bright yellow color for miles between Copenhagen and Stockholm!
Upon arrival, Mattias picked us up and delivered us to our hotel. He chose our accommodations based on location. Rather than be in the center of Stockholm, he chose a spot near his flat to make it easier logistically. The Winery Hotel is located in Solna, Sweden. It was amazing! Our room was small but very comfortable.
This very romantic hotel produces wine on their property. It is conveniently located by the Friends Arena and Mall of Scandinavia. With a five day pass, we had buses steps outside the back and a train an easy walk... especially with the nice weather. The hotel lobby personnel spoke perfect English, which helped! In the lobby was a bar and comfortable seating areas. They also have an area where they conduct wine tastings of their own wines (which are available for purchase).
We took the elevator to the top floor and found the best part of the property! A rooftop bar with many areas to sit and enjoy the view. On this side, we could see the Friends Arena and an intriguing building. It was a great view of Solna! We met Mattias at the bar and enjoyed a glass of Merlot.
On the other side of the top floor... a Jacuzzi! It overlooked a park and the main freeway. What an amazing experience to enjoy a soak while sipping a glass of their wine. The view, the environment... just perfect for couples!
One evening we sat at the bar and had a glass of wine before heading over the restaurant on the grounds. It was truly arelaxing experience to have so many creature comforts without having to navigate the transportation system.
After our pre-dinner cocktail, we headed over to the restaurant. It is just outside the hotel building... attached but seconds away. The Italian theme served delicious personal pizzas, sandwiches and pasta. We ordered the Antipasta plate to start... it went well with the red wine. A plate like this is my favorite... I could truly eat it every day :-)
On our way to the train, we walked right up to and past the Quality Hotel Friends. It would be a nice place to stay when there's an event at the Friends Arena. It would be perfect for a shopping weekend too!
The Mall of Scandinavia was several stories. The entry was spectacular with fountains and special lighting. We strolled through the floors... Barry spent some time in the Tesla store.
I spent time in a store called Jackie. It was based on Jackie O... all of the mannequins looked like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The clothes style was a combination of formal and casual wear for things like boating. I've always admired the former first lady and loved her style. So this was a fun store for me to check out!
Join me tomorrow for the next phase of Stockholm!
