The guide to charming manor houses in Stockholm

Treat yourself to a weekend outside the city in a beautiful countryside surroundings. Thoresta Herrgård is within walking distance of Lake Mälaren and has access to green walking trails, swimming jetties and several activities such as golf. The restaurant serves a rustic menu based on seasonal ingredients that come from nearby farms.

Såstaholm used to be a retirement home where well-known actors spent their last years, but nowadays it's a charming hotel with its own restaurant. They continue to celebrate their theatrical heritage, however, with pictures of actors on the walls and 93 cosy hotel rooms that have been named after famous actors. You can also come here for conferences, weddings and parties.

This picturesque manor house on the island of Ingarö has 59 hotel rooms and beautiful natural surroundings. Säby Säteri is perfect if you're planning a wedding or party but equally for a peaceful weekend close to the archipelago with a sauna and good food. If you'd rather stay a little more privately, they also rent out a 19th century wooden cottage, equipped with a kitchen and bathroom.

If you want to get a bit further out of town and experience a proper manor house weekend, Krusenbergs Herrgård outside Uppsala has a lot to offer. Romantic rooms in historic surroundings, an award-winning restaurant, spa, gym and sauna on the shores of Lake Mälaren - what more could you wish for?

This charming 18th century estate in Nacka is a popular venue for parties, weddings, conferences and other events. If you want to have a taste of manor house life, visit at the weekends when they serve lunch, sandwiches and homemade cakes and pastries. Take a pew on their terrace and enjoy the views of Saltsjön.

Elfviks Herrgård in Lidingö is open at weekends to anyone who wants to round off the week with brunch on the terrace or a coffee or cup of tea in front of the log fire. The house was built in the 18th century and was visited by the Swedish national bard, Bellman, when it was newly built. These days it's mainly used as a venue for meetings, parties, weddings and other events.

Its idyllic location right on Lake Mälaren makes Skärholmens Gård a great place to hold parties and events. Between May and September they open up their little beach café with beautiful views over the water - perfect if you want to sit down and have a coffee, something to eat or cool off with an ice cream.