Oh, to be in Hagaparken
Today I was in the mood for a stroll in Hagaparken so, after a quick cup of java and a pastry at Thelins in Frösunda, I walked over to the park. Part of the reason I decided to go to the park was because I've been reading tons and tons of complaints about the fence being built around Haga Slott. For those of you who don't live in Sweden, HRH Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, and her husband-to-be Daniel Westling will be moving into Haga Slott following their wedding on 19 June. The press (and lots of people who probably never walk in Hagaparken anyway) have been complaining about the fence being built for the crown princess's protection. Many have said there would be no way to walk around the fence--that it cut off the paths near the water and that people would no longer have access to Ekotempel and Gustav III's Pavillion. Well, having walked in that area today I can safely say that these stories are not true.
Yes, there is a fence around the castle and its grounds. No, Gustav III's Pavillion is not behind the fence--it's still open to the public as usual. The same is true for Ekotempel. Ditto for the paths along the water. In fact, the paths are better now, plus street lamps are being installed there so it will feel safer for those who like evening strolls. Also, new trees were being planted and the park felt much cleaner and nicer than it has in a while. What's interesting is that now that news of the Crown Princess soon taking up residence in the castle has spread, more tourists seem to be finding their way to the park, which is great. I have always loved Hagapark and I am glad that our foreign visitors are finally discovering it too. If you're in the mood to explore the park but don't know where to start, take a look at this map, which I found on SFV's website. It gives an overview of what you can find in this lovely English-style park. For more information on the park, check out this link.
Fjärilshuset is a gem in the park. I went there today, though just to sit for a while in the café and have a glass of juice before continuing my walk. The Butterfly House is a great place for anyone who loves butterflies and the wonder of having something akin to a rainforest in the middle of a park in chilly Stockholm. For the most part, it's perfect as it is. However, they really should improve their boutique. Most of what was for sale was very kitschy (and not in a good way). But I can overlook that since the butterflies and plants in Fjärilshuset are so magical.
I spent a little over an hour strolling today, enjoying the beauty of the park and its nature. It was the perfect way to end the weekend, even if it was a bit cloudy today.
By the way, the image above was taken by Holger Ellgaard. I forgot my camera at home...
