Hasseludden Japanese spa
As I was curious about this place, I gave a Spa Day to my mum for Christmas and accompanied her myself :-))) Hasseludden is an old trade union conference centre built in wood and concrete to blend into an archipelago pine forest, and it used to look quite boring until someone suddenly came up with the brilliant idea of making it Japanese. All of a sudden, the walls look classy and "designed" when accompanied by a whole set of attributes such as a great sushi restaurant (we had our own waiter), a Japanese pool (no corners to let the energies flow, and a tea house by its side), free juice and fruit, meditation and qi gong classes and the Japanese showers (sitting on low stools).
Best of all are the hot springs. Some by the showers and some outdoors. It's a great experience to lower yourself down in a 40 degrees Celsius hot pool which is steaming as it is in fact -10 outside. There you sit and enjoy life, watching the ferries to Finland sail past below you and the pine trees...:-)))
All the above and swimgear + Japanese robe is included in the SEK 750 "Yasuragi Day" concept but you can pay extra for various massage and facial treatments too. Children are not allowed so all you hear is low talk, bubbling water and soft Japanese music as you walk around between activities with your towel basket. Expat Japanese were seen there too which is always a good sign as it felt more genuine to try to experience Japan in Europe this way. We went just after Christmas which was nice as autumn and spring sees a lot of conference groups which is less atmospheric. Just ask for a calm day. If by public transport, you reach it by bus from Slussen in the city centre or in summertime by archipelago boat.
As I didn't want to get my camera all steamed up or stolen, I didn't bring it, but the site will show you what it looks like and this photo shows it from the outside as you can see it when you arrive or leave by the ferries I mentioned above. Can you spot it high up in the forest on the cliff?


Vasa ship
VT meeting
S:ta Klara kyrka.
Entrance