Uppsala to Karlstad

There was a change of plan and our second day was spent traveling to Karlstad the home of Niklas Edin (the current World Champion). It was a very dreich day.

After a good breakfast, we set off for Skultuna, a brass foundry set up in 1607. It is world reknowned. After a few cheeky purchases from the shop, we headed to Kolbacks Gastgivaregard for lunch. This was a traditional Swedish building next to a lake.We had a salad starter and a beautiful salmon main with a choice of wine or beer. After another few hours in the bus, we arrived at the Scandic Hotel in the early evening.

After a quick turnaround it was off to the ice rink - a fantastic 8 sheet facility only 6 years old. Our hosts Maria, Eva and her husband had a lovely buffet dinner ready for us. There was smoked boar, smoked venison, salad and more wine or beer. Maria gave a short history of the ice rink and named all the famous curlers (World and European champions, including herself) from the club. She also presented us with gifts.

We all trooped onto the ice for a practice session in our rinks. The ice was keen and swingy. We are now all looking forward to our games tomorrow.

Again here are a selection of photos - brass items for sale (x3), the tables at the ice rink, smoked boar and smoked venison.