Långholmen Hotell

Långholmen Hotell occupies a former prison on the island of Långholmen, a green and surprisingly quiet piece of land in Lake Mälaren just west of Södermalm. It is one of the most unusual places to stay in Stockholm, and certainly one of the most memorable for the price. The old cell block has been turned into a hotel with about a hundred rooms, and the story is part of the experience: the thick walls, the long corridors and the small, simple rooms recall what the building used to be, while the island around it is now a favourite place for walking, swimming and picnicking. You get a strong sense of character and a very different atmosphere from the glass-and-steel chain hotels in the centre. Rooms are straightforward and compact, and that is part of the honesty of the place. Expect a mix of types, from basic doubles and economy rooms with bunk beds, which suit budget-minded travellers and groups of friends, to standard doubles that can sleep a small family. Rooms have showers, a desk, a television and free wifi, and housekeeping is daily. Do not expect luxury; the appeal lies in the setting, the history and the value. The beds are comfortable enough, the rooms are clean and the staff are friendly, and a generous buffet breakfast is included, which sets you up for a day of walking. The restaurant on the island, Långholmens Wärdshus, serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, and there is also a cafe and a bar, so you can eat well without leaving the grounds. In summer the terrace is a lovely place to sit with a drink as the light goes down over the water. Self parking is free, which is rare in central Stockholm, and there is a charging point for electric cars, a luggage room and a front desk that is staffed around the clock. Bikes can be rented, which makes the most of the waterfront paths that run around the island and along the shores of the lake. Långholmen is only a few minutes from the lively streets of Södermalm. The Hornstull area, with its bars, cafes, market and waterfront walkways, is a short walk, and the metro there takes you to the old town and the city centre in a few stops. Reimersholme, a small residential island, is almost next door, and Rålambshov Park and the lakeside promenades are close. For museums, the Vasa Museum and ABBA The Museum are across the city on Djurgården, so allow time to travel, either by metro and a short walk or by ferry in the warmer months. The island itself is peaceful at night, so you can enjoy the energy of Södermalm in the evening and then return to quiet. This is a very good choice for budget-conscious travellers, couples who like something offbeat, families who want green space and groups of friends sharing economy rooms. It is less suited to those who want a polished luxury experience or to be in the heart of the shopping streets. Dogs are accepted for a small fee, which is helpful for those travelling with a pet. Rates are among the more affordable for a central location, and the free breakfast makes the value even better. Summer is the busiest period, so book early for June to August, and check when you book which room type matches your group.