Using our summer ticket, we took advantage of a last minute overnight package deal to a spa hotel in Båstad. Skansen has all the traditional elements for a very Swedish holiday. We arrived in time to explore the town and enjoy a beach stroll before dinner. I felt that room 713 was a good omen (HP’s birthday in reverse, the vault at Gringotts, lol, magic numbers, so we were off to an auspicious start)
Båstad hosts the Swedish Open and has a strong tennis culture, beginning with King Gustav V who brought the game there in the late 1800’s. We didn’t tour the museum but it could be fun for tennis fans!
The town reminds us of Telluride or Grand Marais. It’s quite lively and expensive, with lots of spa goers indulging in good food, the cold bath house, and the wonderful spa facilities including an infinity pool.
Bryant took full advantage of the cold bath, and enjoyed the complete experience. I got quite close to the cold water but remained in my cozy robe and the relaxation room the whole time, ha! So no actual swimming for me but it was very nice. I enjoyed the views, lounging, and beverage sipping. The food was terrific, even the Tennis Ball, which was recommended by our server. It was a vanilla, lime and raspberry mousse on a shortbread base. Very tasty.
After dinner we went for another walk and played a game of “Rock, Bird, Seals” where we tried to guess what we were seeing out in the water as the sun was setting. We saw two seals perching on tiny rocks, making them look like strange bird/ rock combos. But they were very entertaining.
The clouds cleared for a gorgeous sunset.
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