Runic Travels
Runic Travels
Castles and CrystalSweden is known for some of the most innovative crystal companies such as Orrefors, Kosta Boda, and Målerås. This charming 8 day tour combines the best of the Swedish "Crystal Country" with the exciting city of Stockholm. While in Crystal Country enjoy a stay at one of the historic Countryside Hotels either in Kalmar or on historic Öland island. The area is also known for its historic cities and well preserved castles making it a wonderful and relaxing "base camp" for your adventures. Come see for yourself and be inspired by Swedish Design. Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights Contact us for availability and current pricing. Available Dates for 2007:
Contact us for additional pricing To purchase this tour please call 866-521-0828 Included
Optional
ItineraryDay 1: Arrive in Stockholm
Day 2: Stockholm
Day 3: Stockholm - Kalmar
Day 4: Kalmar
While visiting Kalmar be sure to spend some time in the Old Town and Västerport area. You can walk to the cobbled-stone streets and buy handicrafts or visit a museum or two. A visit to the Kalmar Castle is highly recommended as well as the Domkyrkan. Enjoy another dinner at your hotel. Day 5: Glasriket ~ Crystal Country
The factories have gift shops as well as outlets where you can purchase "seconds" at discounts around 30%-40%. In addition to the glass, many sell ceramic, wood, leather and handicrafts as well. Day 6: Kalmar - Stockholm
Day 7: Stockholm
Day 8: Depart Stockholm
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Upon arrival in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, make your way to your hotel in historic Gamla Stan, Old Town. Stroll the cobbled-stone streets for antiques or the perfect cafˇ.
In the morning enjoy a 3 hour city tour of Stockholm, first by motor coach and then by boat which allows for the best views of the city. The afternoon is yours to visit the wonderful museums with your 24hr Stockholm City Cards. These cards provide admissions and free public transportation throughout the city. Be sure to see the Vasa war ship museum as well as the open air folk museum, Skansen.
Board the morning train from Stockholm to Kalmar. (You can also pick up your car in Stockholm if you would prefer to explore the countryside more.) Upon arrival in Kalmar, pick up your rental car and make your way to your hotel either in the city or across the bridge on historic Öland island. Dinner is included tonight so enjoy and relax!
Spend the day exploring Kalmar and Öland island. The island is home to 400 windmills as well as the beautiful Borgholm Castle and the Ismantorp and Eketrop fortresses. If the weather is nice stop at one of the many beaches to soak in the sun.
Between the dense forests and quaint red houses lie the 14 glass factories that make up Crystal Country, Glasriket in Swedish. Watch for the "glasbruk" signs along the road that mark the various factories. Try your hand at glass blowing or try a "hyttsill" in the evening. "Hyttsill" is an evening banquet which dates back to the days of traveling vagabonds, when the smeltry acted as a meeting place for the villagers. Today, "hyttsill" remains a banquet prepared in the traditional manner.
Drop off your car in the morning and board the afternoon train back to Stockholm. Upon arrival, make your way back to your hotel and enjoy another evening in historic Gamla Stan.
You have another full day in Stockholm. Ask Runic Travels about optional day tours in the area or maybe a kayaking trip to Birna and the Viking ruins.