🔗 Share this article

Should you visit the small island of this Gothenburg archipelago gem in the late 1800s, it’s likely came seeking a cure for tuberculosis. Back then, the island welcomed city dwellers seeking fresh air, ocean dips and calm. It gained a name as a sanatorium hub thanks to pioneering medical figures. While those golden years have passed, a recently opened retreat center now rekindles that restorative ethos.

A Serene Island Escape

The same features that previously attracted health seekers endure today. Tucked away from the elements, the island’s southern coast receives sunlight from first light to evening. It has zero environmental toxins. As one the local host, “The island is exceptionally peaceful – guests can unwind your spirit. Once you board the ferry, your pulse decreases and you breathe in the clean air.”

Eco-Friendly Luxury

This retreat boasts 40 accommodations and 10 luxury suites, all styled with Scandinavian aesthetics in calming hues. A number of the rooms offer sea views and private balconies. Eco-consciousness is integral here, with ground-source heat pumps and water-based heating systems. The mission is to achieve international eco-label.

Each detail is obtained as locally as possible, from ingredients in the dining venue to seaweed and salt used in the relaxation services.

Rejuvenation Activities

The spa is split into two zones: The Salt Source features soaking tubs, beauty rituals and a quiet space. The second zone contains a traditional sauna, steam bath and plunge pool. Guests can also use a small gym.

The menu showcases local marine cuisine such as shellfish, white fish, sole and hake, in addition to healthy plant-based dishes.

Exploring the Isle

Biking, strolling, ocean dips and feasting are all essential for the holistic stay. Guests can rent cycles to tour the car-free island, where smooth roads are mainly used by pedestrians, utility transports and compact scooters.

A must-try activity is cycling to Lilla Lyngnskär connected by a bridge, perfect for a picnic. Afterward, travelers may enjoy a Swedish coffee break with sweet pastries and Swedish treats at a former inn.

Nature Adventures

Wooded trails on the southern side of the island take you to a bronze age cairn at Stora Rös, offering breathtaking views of the archipelago. In the evening, the routes are alive with tiny frogs – a natural spectacle.

Dinner times are spent in the dining room’s light-filled eatery overlooking the water. Meals are rooted in Nordic marine produce and local greens. Imagine beets, foraged goodies, oyster mushrooms, charred cabbage and local toppings served over a smooth purée.

Ocean Foraging

Among the most memorable experiences is the marine tour led by a island expert. Participants begin with a guided cycle ride through the northern part of the island, where resides most of the 1,600 residents.

We put on swimwear and stepped into the inviting – almost temperate – ocean. We observed as Karolina demonstrated how to sustainably harvest sea plants.

After the exploring session, guests take part in creating a beachside feast featuring traditional bread thins, marine-infused dishes, wild-flower cookies and sugar kelp bites.

A Memorable Impression

All too soon, it’s time to depart to the everyday life. But the retreat’s laidback atmosphere stays with you. For example, even as you stand for the ferry, you might see a guest wearing nothing but a spa robe and no shoes – a real reminder of the local art of slowing down.

Rooms start from roughly £130 per night. Guests can get to the island via ferry from Gothenburg, which is under an hour from the central station.