The View from Skinnarviksparken

When I was visiting vintage clothes stores in the neighborhood last week, I took a break, bought a coffee and visited Skinnarviks park (Skinnarviksparken) to enjoy the great views over the city. I have already blogged about Monteliusvägen and Fjällgatan, also with great views, but I thought I would tell you about this park as well to give you more options.

Entrance to the park.

Just like the other two spots, Skinnarviksparken is located on the heights along the northern coast of Södermalm... though further west than the other two. Just adjacent to the park itself is the "hill" Skinnarviksberget which has given the park its name. At 53 meters, this hill is the highest natural point in central Stockholm. "Skinnar" is the Swedish word for tanner (someone who tans hides, making leather) and refers to the tanners who worked and lived in this area back in the 1600's. At that time, tanning hides caused quite a bad smell and tanners were often located on the outskirts of the city (which this area was back then).

Top of the hill. The chimney belongs to the old brewery, now event locale. 

The park is small, but pretty and popular with locals out for a stroll or, in the summer, a picnic. It is also a good place to view the firework display on New Year's Eve. You can also climb the hill (not too strenuous) for even better, more unobstructed views. The park is just a 15 minute walk from the Rival Hotel. Otherwise the closest subway station is Zinkensdam (red line). 

The view to the west.