Cruising From Stockholm

Editor’s Choice: Best Bollinger Champagne Bar

The Facts — An inviting and historic 19th century boutique hotel situated in the heart of Stockholm, Hotel Stureplan is a classic European hotel that is set within the cityscape rather than dominating the neighborhood.

The Stureplan’s restaurant Per Lei (which translates to “For You”) provides classic Northern Italian cuisine in relaxed informal surroundings and serves a complimentary buffet breakfast daily. During the summer months, the restaurant extends to a terrace for al fresco dining.

The Bollinger Champagne Bar serves a wide range of vintage wines, with scheduled tastings, as well as fine champagne. Guests may use the next-door Sturebadet Spa at a reduced rate, including the pool, sauna, steam rooms and fitness equipment.

Cozy Digs —One of Stockholm’s newest hotels (opened during the summer of 2008), the elegant property has 101 rooms, with décor throughout that is light and warm, inspired by traditional Swedish craftsmanship with specially designed handmade furniture that combines nicely with the crystal chandeliers throughout the hotel, even in the guest rooms.

Some rooms overlook either bustling Birger Jarlsgatan, or a peaceful inner courtyard and can include a balcony, bay window or open fire.

Final Word — Hotel Stureplan is situated in the heart of Stockholm, close to the city’s central business district as well as shops, restaurants, theaters, galleries and museums, and nightlife. The Royal Opera House and Dramaten theater are nearby. This is an elegant and comfortable place to stay, that feels like having your own apartment, that’s convenient for visiting the attractions of Stockholm.

HOTEL AMENITIES

• Dry cleaning and express laundry service
• Irons, ironing board available upon request; safe in room
• Wireless Internet access throughout the hotel
• Bikes are not provided
• Air Conditioning
• Health Club with gym and treatments

SAMPLE RATE
Sample rate for July 10 – July 12, 2009, (two nights, two people) US$154 per night for Small Room with breakfast included.

CATEGORY
**** 4 Stars

Hotel Stureplan features Stockholm’s only Bollinger Champagne Bar, where you can enjoy a glass of Bollinger Special Cuvée or celebrate with a bottle of 1999 Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Francaises. Don’t miss the afternoon champagne, served Thursday through Saturday 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. Be sure to dine at Per Lei, the excellent “on property” restaurant, or guests may also choose to have dinner directly across from the hotel at Pontus!, one of Stockholm’s most popular restaurants. You can even charge the meal to your room.