On your trip to Mariefred in middle Sweden you can enjoy shopping and dining at some of the country's best restaurants. Slottspaviljongen serve excellent cuisine and fine wine in a gorgeous environment with views over Lake Malaren. Don't miss Gripsholms Castle, which was built by Gustav Vasa during the 16th century, on the site of a former fortress commissioned by Bo Jonsson Grip in the 14th century. The castle attracts visitors from all over the world. Gripsholms Golf Club has golfing opportunities both for beginners and for experienced players.
Do some traditional shopping in the cute little boutique Mariefreds Handelsbod & Leksaker, where you can find anything from interior design to toys and old fashioned sweets. There is a great organic offering for those who are keen to avoid products with unnecessary chemicals. Another cute shop selling interior design and porcelain is Pastellhornan HB, which has been a feature of Mariefred for 30 years. Here you can find many Nordic design classics to bring back home.
Visit Gripsholms Vardshus, the oldest inn in Sweden. The modern facilities in a traditional environment make a stay here a completely unique experience. Also make sure to visit the nature reserve Hjorthagen which was founded in the late 19th century by Charles XV. The fenced area has free roaming deer that graze fields dotted with old age oak trees.
Mariefred has a lot of sights that teach you about Swedish history in an easy and entertaining way. The town museum is located in Callanderska Garden, from the turn of the century. Here you can also see a variety of exhibitions, and in summer you can go for a stroll in the wonderful churchyard. Karnabo Church Ruins is a remnant from the 12th century, located in gorgeous natural surroundings.
Time your visit to Mariefred with Ångans Dag in June, which is a celebration of all things steam powered, and their importance for the town. Examine steam ships and go for a ride on a steam train – young children are guaranteed to love it!
A weekend in Mariefred is always something to enjoy with your entire family. Mariefred is located by Lake Malaren in the county of Sodermanland in Sweden, an hour by car or two hours by train west of Stockholm. The closest international airport is Arlanda, which is around an hour away by car. Holidays to Mariefred are a pleasure all year round, and the town is just as beautiful in the snow as it is in spring and summer.
