A year of change and survival

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

In an era of remote work and digital meetings, Vår Gård also offered a place for students and home workers 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 healthy and productive atmosphere. The opportunity for coworking was highly appreciated and continues to this day.

The summer season which usually took a break now became an excellent opportunity to receive homebound tourists from all over the country. There was a great need to discover Sweden's gems when traveling 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, training under the open sky in the new outdoor gym, relaxing with SUP paddling and the opportunity to explore the surroundings by bicycle quickly became popular options.

Despite the accelerated conversion, Vår Gård to transform from a traditional course farm into a versatile place that responded to society's new needs 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.

In order to meet new needs and changes that the market demanded, Vår Gård a lot of renovations, additions 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 be able 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 haven 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. As Vår Gård had many empty premises, private day offices are also offered for a more private working environment.

The hotel also got through a proper renovation and remodeling to accommodate private guests who longed to get out into nature. In 2021, several single rooms were converted into cozy mini-double rooms as well as larger junior suites with space for families or friends. A new sauna & relaxation area with a terrace and yoga studio facing the jetty 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.