Elite Stadshotellet

Description:

• This is the finest choice in town, although we are also partial to the just-recommended Arctic Hotel. The Stadshotellet has more tradition, situated as it is in a stately, architecturally ornate, brick-and-stone building that has stood in the center of town next to the waterfront since the turn of the 20th century. The airport bus stops right outside the door at a site near the north harbor, and both the bus and the train stations are within walking distance.

  The hotel was conceived by "six local gentlemen" back in 1897, and they demanded a magnificent facade with excellent stone craftsmanship, spires, and towers. In 1959 a devastating fire swept across the third and fourth floors, and the cut-glass chandeliers came crashing down. To rebuild it in an authentic style, the hotel owners of the time had to import stucco workers from the south of Italy, who also restored the original roof and built a dance hall/restaurant opening onto a panoramic view of the harbor.

  Each room is individually decorated and accommodations are also the most spacious in town, especially the large and luxurious suites, with bathrooms in Italian marble. Traditional Swedish fare and zestier Italian specialties are served in the signature restaurant, Tallkotten. In 2001, the Bishop's Arms, a cozy pub in the English style, was added to keep the hotel abreast of the times.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010