Holiday Cottages in Sweden: Booking Tips

A red wooden house with white window frames, a jetty and your own rowing boat: for many people, the holiday cottage is the essence of a Swedish holiday. Swedes call it a stuga, and many families own one themselves. As a result, there is a huge choice. To make sure your holiday lives up to the photos, it pays to look closely at the details.

The most popular regions

• Småland: forests, countless lakes and a short journey from Germany and continental Europe. The classic choice for families.
• West coast: rocky shores, fishing villages and swimming coves between Gothenburg and the Norwegian border.
• Skåne: sandy beaches, gentle hills and mild temperatures in the far south. Find out more on the page Skåne region.
• Dalarna and Värmland: plenty of nature, large lakes and snow in winter.
• Öland and Gotland: the two large Baltic islands, with lots of sunshine. See also Öland.

Facilities: look closely

Swedish holiday homes range from simple cabins to villas with a sauna and fireplace. Before booking, check these points in particular:

• Water and toilet: simple cottages sometimes have no running drinking water, or only a dry toilet in an outbuilding.
• Location by the water: “lake view” does not always mean your own access to the shore. Check the distance in metres.
• Boat: a rowing boat is often included in the price, an outboard motor usually is not.
• Internet and mobile coverage: reception can be weak in remote areas.
• Pets: not every cottage allows dogs.

Extra costs

The rental price is rarely the final price. Traditionally, guests bring their own bed linen and towels or rent them for an extra charge. In many cottages you do the final cleaning yourself; otherwise it is charged. Electricity and firewood are sometimes billed according to use. Factor these items in when comparing offers.

When and how to book

High season runs from mid-June to mid-August, when Swedes are also on holiday. The week around Midsummer is in particularly high demand. Changeover is usually Saturday to Saturday. If you are looking for a house right on a lake in high season, it is best to book in winter. May, early June and September are cheaper and quieter.

You can book through large rental agencies, through tour operators or directly with private owners. Agencies offer more security if problems arise; private owners are often cheaper.

Shopping and everyday life

The nearest supermarket may be half an hour away, so plan your shopping accordingly. Wine and spirits are only sold in the state-run shops, as the article Alcohol in Sweden explains. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, so you will hardly need cash.