A year of change and survival

When the pandemic hit, the phones stopped ringing and Vår Gård was faced with a new reality. From having been a historic course farm for almost only conferences and training, there was now a need to open up to new opportunities. The management had had a longer-term plan to broaden the business to the private market, which now needed to happen basically overnight.
Through a quick decision and action, Vår Gård opened its restaurant and welcomed locals to order takeaway, have lunch or have a coffee in safe conditions. Vår Gård

offered a place for students and homeworkers to have a changed work environment when they could not be in the office or at school. They opened up their rooms as temporary workplaces, where the tranquility of nature created a fresh and productive atmosphere. The opportunity for coworking was greatly appreciated and continues to this day.

The summer season, which usually took a break, now became an excellent opportunity to welcome homebound tourists from all over the country. There was a great need to discover Sweden's gems when travel abroad was not possible. Vår Gård created a range of outdoor activities to meet the needs of those who longed for a break from everyday life. Kayaking on the mirror-like bay, working out under the open sky at the new outdoor gym, relaxing with SUP paddling and the opportunity to explore the surroundings by bike quickly became popular options.

Despite the accelerated change, Vår Gård to transform from a traditional course farm into a versatile place that responded to the new needs of society during the pandemic. By opening up to the local population and offering a mix of work opportunities, dining experiences and outdoor activities, Vår Gård that even in difficult times, a community could grow and strengthen.

Read more in our press room: From historic course farm to exciting holiday destination - in one year.

To meet new needs and changes demanded by the market, Vår Gård a lot of renovations, extensions and new ideas. When the house was empty without guests, plans were quickly put into action and a new Bakery and Wine Café was built at the entrance to welcome local neighbors and visiting visitors for good meals and ordering bread and takeaway food. The pleasant bistro with stylish interior and terrace facing the sea quickly became a local living room for Saltsjöbaden 's locals.

A new meeting room that would offer conferences and events for larger companies and groups was inaugurated and became a perfect hangout for coworking. At the top of the main building, Vinden opened with a total of 175 square meters of space and a charming character with sloping ceilings and modern design. Since Vår Gård had many empty premises, private day offices are also offered for a more private work environment.

The hotel also underwent a thorough renovation and reconstruction to accommodate private guests who longed to get out into nature. In 2021, several single rooms were converted into cozy mini-double rooms and larger junior suites with space for families or friends. A new sauna & relaxation area with a terrace and yoga studio facing the pier and beach was also created. Vår Gård is now open every day of the week with the capacity to welcome both companies and private guests to enjoy relaxing stays in a beautiful archipelago environment.

Picture below: The new Vincafé which has taken over the old lobby bar at the main entrance.