We were in Trollhattan to pick up our new Saab (through their highly recommended European Delivery program) and decided to spend the night before driving about to explore the country. We made the right choice. Not only is the town the perfect blend of laid back casual charm and an appropriate mix of bigger city amenities, but the Scandic Swania, which I picked after a moderate internet search, was the ideal spot for our overnight stay. Right on the water, we were lucky enough to get a canal-side room on the top (5th) floor. A bit warm due to no AC and an unusual heat spell, the open windows provided a great cooling breeze. The room was typical US hotel size, but the bed was comfortable, the bathroom was clean and well equipped and the room had all the other amenities we needed (except Kleenex-go figure). The central location was a short walk from many restaurants and bars, though we chose to eat at the hotel restaurant with outside, water-side seating (try the traditional Swedish 'bubble and squeak', similar to beef hash, or the seafood pasta with a tomato-based cream sauce, both were excellent). The included breakfast buffet was well stocked and had a wide variety of breads, cereals, juices and fruits along with pancakes, eggs and a mix of breakfast meats. The historical locks along the canal are a short drive or moderate hike away (via canal-side walking paths) and if you're lucky enough to be in town on the weekends when they release water through the rock gorge, the falls are said to be spectacular (we missed it). The only slight negative was that parking, in a garage across the street, was an extra charge (about $10 per night), not free as stated on some websites, though this was a small price to pay for an otherwise first-rate hotel.

I stayed in the Scandic Swania for 4 nights, in late November 2006. It's a nice hotel, the room was huge (around 40 sq. metres), and it's in a quiet part of town. Well, the whole town is quiet.
The only major issue I had was my luggage getting stolen from my hotel room! Apparently, somebody broke into the staff room and took a master key card, and opened several rooms. Mine was the only one occupied, and I lost one travel bag with nothing but clothes inside.

The hotel manager was always very kind, although he was clearly at a loss in what to do, apparently it was the first time anything like that ever happened there. But the police did noticed that the door on my room showed signs of being forced.

Anyway, after discussing the issue with the manager, he compensated me with some money, not enough to cover all expenses, but better than nothing.

Would I return to Scandic Swanea? Probably, but I'll be careful with my luggage...

I am a regular visitor to the Swania Hotel and I think it is probably the best Hotel you can get in Trollhättan. It is centrally located with lots of shops and Restaurants within minutes of walking. You can also stroll (or jog) along the canal to get to the 18th Century locks and the spectacular Falls. Furthermore, the hotel itself is located directly at the Göta Canal with many rooms having a view over it. The best is the draw bridge opening while you have a fantastic breakfast in the Dining room with a fantastic view of the Canal or you are sitting inside or (in the summer) outside the bar enjoying a not too expensive beer and the very tasty food. The staff is very friendly and helpful. I enjoy staying there every time and I´m regularly staying there for four years now. I can recommend the hotel both for business and leisure.