YASURAGI HOTEL & SPA

While we are all familiar with fusion cuisine, fusion wellness might come as a novelty. In the Stockholm archipelago, a mere 20 minutes (by boat) from the Swedish capital, a stunning spa resort blends Japanese and Swedish aesthetics & traditions with impressive results. Nestled in the forest of an enchanting island, with stunning views of the bay, the freshly renovated eco-luxury hotel, designed by a Japanese architect Yoji Kasajima, boasts gorgeously Zen rooms and suites built with natural Nordic materials (some even feature tatamis). One´s stay starts with an introduction to the Japanese bathing ritual, to be enjoyed in the Japanese baths; followed by a session in the vast wet area, where one hops from saunas and steam rooms to plunge pools, rain curtains and iced caves. To then immerse one selves in the outdoors onsen-style hot springs, soaking in the serenity of the surrounding wilderness. Activities such as Hata or sauna yoga, Qi Gong, chakra meditation, Tibetan singing bowls and walks in the Japanese garden pepper the day. Meals are taken in one of the restaurants serving Japanese cuisine with a Scandi-twist: unmissable the Saishoku raw-vegan bistro, where dishes are both nourishing and delicious. Breakfast is a triumph of healthy and indulgent delicacies of both Nordic and Asian traditions (think berry smoothies and miso soup). To complete the rejuvenating journey, try the treatments offered by the Spa, realised with the luxurious natural eco-products by Hada, made in Sweden with a Japanese touch. We tried the signature Digital Pause ritual (ask for Nok, her hands are magic) a deep massage concentrating on the areas most affected by the use of laptops and smartphones (80 min, 1550 Swedish kroner). Tailor-made facials are also very effective. And did I mention that you only wear a complementary (and very stylish) yukata during the stay? Truly liberating.