Hotel Zinkensdamm

Hotel Zinkensdamm sits on the western side of Södermalm, the large island south of the old town where much of Stockholm's younger, creative life takes place. It stands beside Tantolunden, one of the best-loved parks in the city, and the setting is green and relaxed, a long way from the formal streets of Norrmalm even though the centre is only a short metro ride away. The hotel rates as a three-star superior property, and it combines the reliability of a well-run mid-range hotel with a little more personality than most, including a leafy garden, a playground and even a mini golf course that families and groups of friends enjoy in summer. There are about ninety rooms, in a good range of sizes. The comfort and superior rooms suit couples and solo travellers, with king or twin beds, and the standard rooms can sleep up to four with a mix of double and bunk beds, which makes them good value for families. There are also larger cabin-style rooms with two bedrooms for bigger groups. All rooms have a private bathroom with a shower, a flat-screen television, a desk and free wifi, and many have a small sitting area. Blackout curtains help in the bright summer nights. Housekeeping is daily, and the hotel holds an environmental certification. The facilities are a real strength for the price. There is a restaurant and a bar and lounge, a snack bar for something quick, a sauna, a library and a garden with picnic spots. Bikes can be rented, which is an excellent way to explore Södermalm and the waterfront, and there is a laundry for longer stays. Self parking is available for a daily charge if you book in advance, and there is a charging point for electric cars. The front desk is open around the clock. The mood is friendly and informal, with a strong local feel, and it attracts a mix of families, cyclists, couples and independent travellers. The neighbourhood is a pleasure to explore. Tantolunden Park is practically on the doorstep, with its lawns, allotment gardens and summer events, and the island of Långholmen, with its swimming spots and walking paths, is a ten-minute walk. Hornstull, with its cafes, market and bars, is a short distance away, and the metro there takes you to the old town and the city centre in a few minutes. Södermalm's best streets for coffee, vintage shopping and dinner are all within easy reach, and the lookout at Monteliusvägen can be reached with a pleasant walk or a short metro ride. To reach Djurgården for the Vasa Museum and Skansen, plan on the metro and a short walk or tram ride. Zinkensdamm is a good choice for families who want space and a garden, for budget-conscious couples, and for anyone who would rather feel like a local than stay among the department stores. It is less suitable if you want to step out of the door into the old town or the main shopping streets, since you will use the metro for most sightseeing. Children are welcome, and cribs are available for a small charge. Pets are not accepted, and cash is not taken at the desk, so bring a card. Prices are moderate and fairly stable, with the best value outside the summer weeks, and it is worth checking when you book what the breakfast and cancellation terms are for your rate.