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Switzerland
Garden · Borgholm, Kalmar
Solliden
The Swedish royal family's summer residence, on a hill near Borgholm, with an Italian-style villa from 1906 and gardens open to the public in season: the Italian garden, the Dutch, the English and the kitchen garden.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Solliden
Solliden, which means slope of the sun, was built from 1903 to 1906 for Queen Victoria, wife of King Gustav V, who liked Öland's dry, sunny climate. The house is a white Italian-style villa, inspired by a house the queen knew in Capri. Since then it has been the family's summer residence, and they usually spend part of July and August there.
The house is not open to visitors, but the gardens are, in season. They were planned by the queen herself and are still maintained. There is an Italian garden with terraces and fountains; a Dutch garden with geometric beds; an English garden with lawns and trees; and a rose garden. The kitchen garden and orchard produce for the family and for the on-site café. Paths lead down to the Kalmarsund shore, from where the ruins of Borgholm Castle can be seen.
An exhibition pavilion presents the history of Solliden and the royal family, and the shop sells plants and regional products. On Crown Princess Victoria's birthday, July 14, the family usually appears at a public ceremony in Borgholm.
The gardens are closed outside the season.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 1h30.
Best time
From mid-May to September, when the gardens are usually open. June and July are the rose season. Check opening times and for any closures due to royal engagements.
How to get there
It is next to the Borgholm castle ruins, about 2 km from the town centre. There is a footpath from the ruin and parking by the entrance.
Tip
Visit the castle ruin and Solliden on the same day, via the trail that links them. The garden café uses produce from the kitchen garden.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Solliden
Can you enter the Solliden house?
No. The house is the royal family's residence. The gardens and the exhibition pavilion are open in season.
When do the Solliden gardens open?
They usually open from mid‑May to September. Check before you go.
Is Solliden near the Borgholm ruin?
Yes, next to it, connected by a trail.