Norrkoping, Ostergotlands -City of Industry, Beauty, Calming Waters

Last evening I arrived by train to Norrkoping. To pronounce this city's name almost correctly in Swedish, it is NOR -shu pping. Emphasis on the 1st syllable, and a  short u (as in cup).
The language is difficult, but I am able to read road signs and I can decipher a Swedish menu pretty well now.

I checked into my room at the Elite Grand Hotel, and indeed it was just that. Situated on the Gota Canal, this city is built around the water that runs through it like none other I have seen so far.

The Gota canal is a long manmade waterway that stretches from Lake Vanern (Where I was last week) to the East side of the country.  Sweden’s greatest feat of engineering, the Göta Canal has also been named Sweden’s Greatest Wonder - a festival for all the senses

http://www.gotakanal.se/en/gota-canal-history/.

My room is quite spectacular too......On the 6th floor, facing the canal with a door that opens to a small balcony. There is a fence preventing actual stepping out onto the balcony, but it is really nice to have the cool air and the fantastic view. An outdoor restaurant and bar just under me on the street is open until midnight, but last night it did not bother me at all.

I booked a single room, but I have a queen sized bed for the first time in the trip! This hotel was no more expensive than any other I have booked, but it is far superior.

After a great Swedish buffet breakfast, I went out for a walk, heading towards the 'city of Industry' area. As I walked along the canal I found some decorative locks and dams, some functional ones in addition to spillways and waterfalls, along with an adorable little stream that was funnelled off the main waterway.. The buildings are built right on the canal, with the water running directly on the foundations and in some cases, through the buildings.

Norrkoping has been a city since the medieval days, and many times the city burned to the ground. In the 1800's wooden buildings were banned and in 1841 a ship-building industry started up. Paper mills, textiles factories also flourished. The old factory and industry building now house museums, and innovative new companies and the waterways have been restored to the former grand design. 

This is a beautiful and very walkable city and I am very happy that Carina suggested I spend some time here..

I skipped lunch and fika today so I had an early dinner of smoked salmon and a local beer......a little later I think I'll step out for a little ice cream!