my scandinavian home: Summer cottage

Inside An Idyllic Norwegian Island Getaway

Hej hej! Happy Friday! In case you’re wondering about the current mood in Scandinavia – it’s very much a case of “gone fishing” or, more accurately, “gone to the summer cottage, back in three weeks.” It’s July, and no one works in July unless they absolutely have to. After all, we’ve endured a long, cold, dark winter – this is the moment we’ve been waiting for!

One of Scandinavia’s best-kept secrets is the incredible array of islands that come alive at this time of year. There’s something for everyone – tiny skerries, uninhabited nature reserves with hiking trails and camping spots, and charming islands dotted with clapboard summer cottages, old fishing villages, and small harbours where life gathers in the evening. The days follow a simple rhythm: eat, swim, nap, repeat.

This delightful summer cottage is situated in Hvaler, a municipality made up of islands in the southern part of Østfold County, Norway, and perfectly captures the essence of the Scandinavian summer idyll. Its relaxed coastal interior, with blue and white accents, reflects the hues of the Skagerrak Sea, glimpsed through the windows. A sailboat here, a cluster of ornamental glass fishing buoys there – it’s all part of the charm.

Though modest, the cottage offers an effortless comfort: a relaxed sofa, soft blankets, sheepskins and cushions invite you to kick back and unwind. But if the sun’s shining, you’ll probably be tempted to join the alfresco gathering, where fresh prawns await – or slip away to the water’s edge for a quiet moment alone, soaking up the scenery and recharging for the season ahead.

Enjoy the tour!

Charming in every way!

It’s been captured so beautifully that I feel as though I’m right there – soaking up the sunshine on the warm rocks with a book in hand.

Do you feel it too?

Does it sound like your kind of summer? Is there anything that stood out to you? If so, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

If you’d like to see more snapshots, hop over to @hvalerlivet on Instagram – it’s a true feast for the eyes!

Would you like to explore more Norwegian summer houses today? If so, take a peek at:

A magical Norwegian house by a fjord
An idyllic fjordside retreat in Norway
A charming little cabin by a Norwegian fjord

Have a wonderful weekend – and thank you for stopping by!

Niki

Photography courtesy of @hvalerlivet, shared with kind permission.

A Dreamy Swedish Summer Home by the Water

There’s something about Swedish summer that feels almost magical — and this house captures it perfectly. Tucked beside the water, it’s the kind of place where you can imagine long, golden evenings spent dining al fresco with friends, especially on a day like today, with Sweden basking in 28°C (that’s 82°F) sunshine (I've heard some serious heatwaves are going on elsewhere, I hope you are all OK?).

Described as “like being in the countryside, but in the middle of town,” this charming Swedish house is tucked into a sheltered bay just a 15-minute bike ride from Nacka, Stockholm county. Built in 1820 and recently renovated, it still retains its beautiful heritage features and light pours in through the windows – pure magic.

I’m particularly taken with the glass verandah – a popular architectural detail in houses from this era. In this home, it’s been styled as a covered porch area, though in other homes, you often see it as a dining area or cosy sitting room nook. I also really like the semi-open-plan kitchen, divided by a windowed partition that allows the light to flow freely while keeping the spaces distinct.

Summer here is all about swimming in the lake and taking a boat out for a spin. But it’s not just a fair-weather retreat – there’s clear evidence of winter warmth too, with a snug spot by a roaring wood-burning stove. And when the water freezes over, it becomes a playground for ice skating. In Stockholm County, many of the lakes are connected, making it possible (and popular!) to skate long distances.

I hope you enjoy this tour of a truly dreamy year-round home. It’s a beauty!

I'd happily bask in the sunshine there today—wouldn't you?

I really appreciate how the traditional look blends with an industrial touch. It makes the space feel both personal and relaxed.

What did you think of this lovely cottage? Did anything in particular stand out to you?

If you'd like to dream over a few more summer cottages today, head over to the archive.

Also—I'm hosting a fantastic giveaway on Instagram right now! You can win a collection of the ØY scent from Skandinavisk, including a wash, lotion, candle, scent diffuser, shampoo, conditioner, and a bundle of other beautiful products inspired by the islands of Scandinavia. Pop over and enter—and do tell me about your favourite island. I'll be sharing mine here on the blog next week.

Happy Wednesday, stor kram!

Photography courtesy of Historiska Hem.

Dreaming of a “Coolcation”? This Swedish Cottage Could Be Your Summer Sanctuary

Ciao! I got back from Rome late last night after a really fabulous few days. I absolutely love that city — it feels like living inside a museum. Just incredible. Have you ever been?

One thing I really noticed this time was just how hot it was though. After living in Sweden for 22 years, I’m definitely not as heat-resistant as I once was — and 36°C (that’s about 97°F!) had us clinging to the nearest gelato boutique at every turn!

On the way home, I was reading about how Scandinavia is becoming a hot summer destination for a so-called “coolcation” — and I totally get it. The air is fresh, and you can do things without melting (even if you do need a raincoat or maybe even a hat and gloves, depending on what the Norse weather gods decide!). So, what do you think about your very own Swedish summer cottage?

There's one currently for sale that looks just perfect — nestled among lilac bushes and forest, with a cool lake nearby for swimming when the thermometer starts creeping up. I personally love the look of the verandah; I can already imagine myself in the wicker chair, soaking up the birdsong. The interior feels like a step back in time — a deep green kitchen, charming vintage wallpaper (even on the cupboard doors!), and sweet little touches of Swedish folk style in every corner, no doubt passed down through the family for generations.

A summer filled with card games, foraging, good food, and complete relaxation? That sounds like bliss to me, I hope you feel inspired too!