Drottningholm Palace, built from 1662, after the first palace on this site burned down, has been the official home of the Swedish royal family since 1981

We travelled there using the conveniently frequent trains and a bus, taking a leisurely return journey on a tourist ferry, the Prins Carl Philip, a century old steamboat still plying a regular daily route on Lake Malaren.

The palace, in extensive and beautiful public gardens, is perfectly positioned on the lake. It is open to the public and the rooms are exquisitey opulent. No photography is permitted inside. Behind the palace and within a lovely walk down manicured avenues, is the Chinese Pavillion, built in 1769, a striking set of rococco buildings with Chinese elements.

The Drottingsholms Slottsteater dates from 1766 and is in original condition. The stage has hand - painted decorations that can change instantly with wooden stage machinery, operated by hand.