Hotel J
Nacka Strand, Stockholm, Sweden
Nautical design is given a stylish, contemporary twist in this relaxing waterfront hotel just 15 minutes east of Stockholm
Just 15 minutes from central Stockholm, you can sit on your balcony
in complete tranquility, looking out over the water to distant
islands and watching boats pass languidly by. Strikingly situated
on the shoreline to the southeast of the city and surrounded by
marinas, Hotel J feels like a smart New England yacht club. Bright
interiors mix natural wood, crisp cottons in navy and white, and
plentiful nautical references, from signal flags and model boats to
polished masts and rigging. Outside, catamarans line the private
beach, inviting you to take off for an island in the
archipelago.
It's blissful in the hot Swedish summer, but step inside Hotel J on
a wintry day and find a perfect refuge from any storm: friendly
young staff, and a spacious lounge and breakfast area that's
fragrant with lilies in huge vases and woodsmoke from the open
fire. Help yourself to leaf tea and a fresh brioche, or sink into
an armchair with a G&T. Come evening, dine on classic American
cuisine at the hotel, or wander down to the waterfront to feast on
fresh seafood at nearby Restaurant J, gazing out towards
Stockholm’s lights glinting in the distance. Hope to be
stranded for several days at least.
Reviewed by Christabelle Dilks
Last updated 06 March 2012
Highs
- Wonderful waterfront location - hop on a ferry to explore central Stockholm, then return to peace and quiet
- The design is fresh and inspiring, but not too cool; rooms are very smart and very comfortable
- The homely lounge is truly relaxing - sink into a fireside sofa and watch the watery world outside
- A choice of 2 restaurants means you won't feel marooned - sample tempting New England fare at The Club House on site, or eat excellent seafood at popular Restaurant J 300m away
- A genuinely warm welcome: staff clearly love working here
Lows
- Since our last visit a new wing with a further 113 rooms and a conference centre has been added - it's now much larger than most i-escape hotels
- It's a 20-minute boat hop (or a 15-minute taxi ride) from the city centre, though in summer the journey is part of the fun
- Not much to do in the surrounding area; the hotel is near a business centre and most places close during evenings and weekends
- Service is friendly but pretty relaxed: don't expect to have your bags carried
