Everywhere in Värmland, the stately manor houses tower – often designated as historic landmarks, these properties are situated in picturesque and enchanting surroundings.
A Historical Journey Among Värmland’s Manor Houses
The manor house tradition is strong in the region, and a visit here is, in many ways, a historical journey back to the time of nobility and industrialists. Many of the manor houses have also been inhabited by famous Swedish personalities, including Alfred Nobel’s Björkborn in Karlskoga, Selma Lagerlöf’s Mårbacka in Östra Ämtervik, and Gustaf Fröding’s Alster in Karlstad.
Oftentimes, these beautiful buildings are framed by flourishing gardens, fruit trees, and majestic avenues, contributing to a harmonious and relaxing experience. It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic place for a wedding celebration, a Christmas feast, or a romantic weekend with someone you cherish.
Some of the manor houses function as museums, while others focus entirely on a combination of accommodation, spa facilities, conference opportunities, and top-class dining experiences. Moreover, they are the perfect starting point for explorations and activities in the surrounding area.
Hennickehammars Herrgård
A few kilometers outside Filipstad, nestled in the scenic and enchanting nature by the lake, lies Hennickehammars Herrgård Here, you’re offered an authentic manor house experience with cozy accommodation and restaurant experiences of very high quality.
Dömle Herrgård Spa & Resort
Located at Dömle Herrgård Spa & Resort just outside Deje, you can enjoy a brilliant manor house setting with fine modern hotel rooms overlooking Lake Smårissjön, a forest, and an 18-hole golf course right at your doorstep. Dömle’s head chef offers exciting menus, composing modern dishes on classic foundations, and Dömle’s unique wine cellar is well worth a visit. The Spagården relaxation area offers a soothing atmosphere for both body and soul.
Ulvsby Herrgård
Ulvsby Herrgård is beautifully situated by Lake Fryken in Sunne. Here, you live amidst history dating back to the 16th century in the manor once owned by Queen Christina in the 17th century and written about by Selma Lagerlöf. Each room has its place in history, and the decor is inspired by both literary and real-life figures. Wake up to lake views and enjoy a breakfast with locally produced flavors from Värmland. Dogs are, of course, welcome.
In Queen Christina’s bathhouse, you can draw a bath in a luxurious copper bathtub and gaze out over Lake Fryken or enjoy the warmth of a sauna. Gastronomic experiences have been served in Ulvsby Manor’s dining room for over 100 years. Meat, vegetables, fish, and vendace roe are locally sourced. The manor’s old recipes are mixed with modern cooking and served with selected wines from the manor’s cellar. The manor’s “Länsmansgårdens Christmas buffet” was widely known, and the recipes are still used today. Here, Christmas delicacies coexist with modern elements. The mulled wine is homemade and served in the lounges by the crackling fireplace.
Ölme Prästgård
Feel the wings of history at Ölme Prästgård from the 18th century. Here, you can relax in a peaceful environment and stay comfortably in one of the old rectory’s eight charmingly decorated rooms. Enjoy the small and fine moments in life and savor good, locally sourced, and organic food.
Apertin Hotel
At Apertin Hotel, you’ll eat well and stay in tastefully decorated rooms. The manor is located in a nature reserve with lush greenery in the summer and scenic walking trails year-round. Here, you’ll find comfortable accommodation where you can feel the wings of history. The oldest part of the manor was built in the 1670s, and the second floor was added about a hundred years later, making it a must-visit for those interested in architecture and building conservation!
Sahlströmsgården
Sahlströmsgården is an old artist’s farm, and the main building is a museum with guided tours where you can learn about the lives and works of the three artists Anna, Bror, and Ida Sahlström. The hotel opened its doors in 2010 and offers pleasant rooms. The restaurant is housed in the old barn, and just outside, you’ll find two lovely nature and cultural hiking trails. Here, you can experience art, culture, and recreation in an exquisite manner before drifting off to sleep, perhaps after a dip in Lake Sirsjön and a relaxing moment in the wood-fired sauna.
Risberg Herrgård
Rent an entire manor! At Risberg Herrgård, you have the opportunity to rent an entire wing or separate rooms in a manor setting. There are three self-catering houses with their own kitchen, living room, and bedroom. As a guest, you bring and prepare the food and drinks you desire during your stay, but you can also upgrade your stay with prepared meals. Risberg Herrgård is beautifully situated by Lake Rådasjön, about a 10-minute drive from Hagfors. On the estate, there’s the possibility of lovely swims in the lake and proximity to hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as the Klarälvsbanan cycling path.