A journey through time
A bygone era. Danish, Swedish, or German. Gotland's history is intriguing and full of excitement. Lina and Anders chose Gotland for a trip back in time. To the Hanseatic city that was already taking steps toward becoming a tourist destination in the late 1800s.
We are very interested in history and have a fondness for old churches. Gotland was simply perfect for an active vacation, says Lina Johansson.
Visby, with its medieval city walls and many historical attractions, is a central part of Gotland's rich history. Ljugarn is also a place on Gotland with interesting excursion destinations for those who want to discover more of the island's history.
Many people know that one morning in 1361, the Danish regent Valdemar Atterdag landed on the island's west coast. A poorly equipped peasant army did its utmost to defend the city. The battle outside Visby's walls was fierce, and in the end, the city was forced to open its gates to the Danish king, who mercilessly pillaged and burned the city. Combined with the Black Death, it is said that Gotland's population declined significantly.
Battles through time
However, Valdemar Atterdag was not the first to contribute to the fighting on Gotland. Among other things, construction of the Ringmuren wall began in 1250 to protect the city, with its large German population, from the peasants, which led to a civil war.
Once you've read a bit and find the story exciting, it's really cool to visit the places where the battles and historical events took place. We decided to go on a bit of a whim and picked a bed and breakfast in Kneippbyn. The Lautersstugan cottage with a hammock right outside the door was appealing, says Lina, continuing: It was close to the breakfast buffet, and we were then ready for an exciting day. The rooms were comfortable and offered both a private entrance and bathroom, which made our stay even more inviting.
Gotland is not particularly large in terms of area, but it has many magical places. Among other things, the island has 92 medieval churches that are open to visitors every day.
We may not be the most devout believers, but visiting a church is such a special experience. The atmosphere and mystique, combined with the architecture, are difficult to describe. Not to mention the impressive artwork that adorns the interior.
Dinner with sunset
After a long day of sightseeing, we enjoyed an evening swim in the newly built lagoon, and for our first evening meal, we chose the Solsidan restaurant.
We are used to spontaneously going on mini-vacations and usually choose bed and breakfasts. We know that the standard can vary greatly depending on where you go, but it is simple and cheaper than staying in a hotel. However, we were very pleasantly surprised by everything that was included at Kneippbyn. As a bed and breakfast guest, having the opportunity to enjoy both morning and evening baths is a real bonus.
After a refreshing swim and with their picnic basket packed, they set off for the legendary island of Fårö. Known for its rauk fields, landscape, and long beaches. But this time, the Johanssons' focus was on the Bergman Center, where the pioneer of Swedish film history, Ingmar Bergman, is portrayed in a love affair between him and his beloved Fårö.
At the Bergman Center, we have both temporary and permanent exhibitions about Ingmar Bergman's work in film, theater, and other media. Here, visitors can learn more about one of the world's most significant filmmakers, whose career spanned over 65 years and more than 500 works. Take the opportunity to learn more about the strong relationship that developed between the world-famous director and Fårö." This can be read on the Bergman Center's website.
We already knew that Bergman was special, but it was very interesting to learn about his life in peace and quiet and then visit some of the places he lived, and it's something I would really recommend, says Lina.
History right next to your accommodation – the story of Pippi and Villa Villekulla
Kneippbyn Resort not only offers a wide range of accommodation options, from bed and breakfasts to hotels, but also has lots of activities aimed primarily at families with children. Lina and Anders' grandchildren stayed at home this time, but the films about Pippi remain vivid in their memories. Kneippbyn is home to Villa Villekulla, the original house from SVT's films about Pippi Longstocking. A museum with Kling and Klang's original car and motorcycle with sidecar can also be studied up close.
The last two films, "Pippi Longstocking" and "Pippi Longstocking on the Run," were filmed at Kneippbyn's Summerland the house was moved there in 1970—in one piece! In 2001-2002, 2010, and most recently in 2015, Villa Villekulla was renovated to recreate the environment from the classic films.
Villa Villekulla is a turn-of-the-century villa. Dating by E. Ahlqvist on the staircase indicates that the house was extended or built in 1902. The villa was originally a caretaker's residence with a cellar belonging to the Gotland Regiment at Visborgsslätt.
In the early 1960s, Music Director Åke Dohlin (Hagström 1996:91) and then Dentist Bergstedt lived in the villa for a short time, before the house was used as an ammunition and underwear storage facility. The caretaker's residence became known as Villa Villekulla with the filming of the Pippi series on Gotland. In 1968, the first episodes of the Pippi series were filmed.
It's funny how I can remember sitting in front of the TV, completely absorbed by the movies. Of course, I had to take a picture and even buy a pippit shirt for each of my grandchildren.
Cool neighbors
What could be better than really nice neighbors? Kneippbyn Resort has most things you could want, but did you know that the Michelin-guide-listed restaurant Lilla Bjers is just around the corner? They serve everything from tasting menus to the Green Table concept, where dinner begins with a tour of the farm's crops and is then enjoyed in the specially decorated greenhouse. When people flock to the resort, it's a good idea to get there early.
I have always appreciated enjoying really good food and have perhaps become a little picky in my older days. I must say that Lilla Bjers was really, really good. It's a little extra special when you work with the whole picture, says Anders and continues:
While we were out cycling, we took the opportunity to visit Café Cubanen, which had just opened. It seems that they want to create a kind of Mediterranean feel. We didn't have much time this time, but it made us curious about the future.
Lina and Anders Johansson are determined to return to Gotland and Kneippbyn Resort, which, like many others, offers bed and breakfast accommodation. The big difference is Kneippbyn's breadth of design and standard.
At Kneippbyn, you can choose between the following bed and breakfast options: Glamping, Fishing Cabin, Premium Cabin Lauters, Family Room, or the economy cabin option.
