Torrlids Fäbod, Älvdalen, Dalarna
This is a mountain summer farm in Sweden, a ”sheiling” in Scots. This ancient tradition used to be commonplace however sadly is diminishing – indeed now non-existent in Scotland.
Margareta and her daughter Johanna produce unique butter, cheese and messmör from their cows who forage in the forest whilst Dad pops up from work in the village below. With no electricity at Torrlid, our beautiful candle lit log cabin was simple and spotless. Get up early and you can watch the milking as day begins.
We heard the cow bells as they grazed the tree strewn meadows, and ate “tunnbröds” a fine home made potato based crepe rolled with their own cheese along with lashings of excellent coffee and creamy milk straight from the cow. The cows return for milking and stay in overnight, safe from predators (wise move as I’m not very brave with bears either) and in the early morning the cheesemaking begins.
The messmör would not be ready until evening as this sweet whey butter takes 8 hours of stirring to reduce and caramelize. Most definitely Slow Food. We had an absolutely brilliant time (our fourth visit) and were made very welcome. If you wish to experience this very precious food adventure it is only available during the month of July each year.
Billinge Krukmakeri & Galleri, Billinge
Gallery and handicrafts. Contemporary interior within a lovely cross logged rural Skånsk building with a huge range to choose from. Specialising in earthy and mustard tones and reflective of the local history but also with modernist designs too.
Brösarp Gästgifveri, Brösarp
Gästgifveri with long tradition of serving fine Skånsk dishes. Inn has been in existence since 1684…over 300yrs old! Particularly famous for Skånsk äggakaka with fried pork, and wild boar (pictured). Local seafood from Simrishamn nearby.
Röstånga Mölla Café, Eslov
This wonderful artisan bakery has a tasty range of rustic sourdough breads and a lovely cafe. They embrace Slow Food philosophy and use all natural ingredients. We met up whilst in Turino a Slow Food’s Terra Madre.
Cafe Miro, Kristianstad Museum
The place to eat in Kristianstad. On the grand ‘torg’ or city square sits the museum with lovely gift shop, books and art. Cafe Milo is organic, fair trade, ethical and seasonal. Laid back cafe very popular with locals and tourists alike. Lunch buffet is brimming and inventive.