The Swedish Summer Palace is known as Drottningholm–or the queen’s palace.  It’s about a 30 minute boat ride from Stockholm.  This was our first view as we approached by boat.  I thought it was a charming little castle–just perfect for summer!

But as we rounded the bend, it became obvious that this was no small place!

In fact, the Swedish royal family has made this their permanent home rather than the castle in the center of old town Stockholm.

Sally and I toured the inside, but photos weren’t allowed.  I did find these two images on the royal web site!  An understated bedroom.

The Blue China room, which I just loved!  Talk about pulling a theme together!

The gardens were HUGE and very lovely, but there were no flowers–not a one.

You entered through this gate.

Looking back toward the castle.  We’re only about a quarter of the way through the gardens.

It was much cooler in the shade.

At the far end of the gardens was the Chinese Pavillion.  In one small wing, the family could dine in private with no servants.  How’d they do that?  Well, there was a trap door in the floor and the entire table would be lowered into the kitchen, the food laid upon it, then hoisted back to the waiting family!

There was a wonderful cafe on the grounds where we had lunch.

The simple, white Swedish interiors are so wonderful.

How’s this for fast food?  Swedish meatballs, dilled potatoes and lingonberry sauce.

One satisfied customer in Anna Lena Land!