Winter experiences in Swedish Lapland

After months of perennial light and midnight sunshine, the days in Swedish Lapland are getting shorter, giving way to the magical return of the Aurora Borealis, a spectacle that makes this area one of the best places in the world to observe them. Regardless of whether you are above or below the Arctic Circle, the aurora can be seen throughout the region, from Abisko, with its striking mountain views to the northwest, to Luleå, overlooking the Gulf of Bothnia. However, a winter holiday in Swedish Lapland is not just about contemplating the aurora: here, nature and culture come together in unique and authentic experiences, offering the chance to live the true Arctic lifestyle, deeply connected to the territory.

 

 

Swedish Lapland is one of only seven places in the world where you can experience the true Arctic environment. Mountains and immense forests are covered in snow from November, while lakes, rivers and the sea freeze over until May. Often referred to as the last great wilderness area in Northern Europe, Lapland is also a living cultural landscape, where the Sami people, the last indigenous people on the continent, have lived for thousands of years. Jokkmokk, located inland, is the Sami cultural center of Sweden and has hosted the famous winter market every February since 1606.

 

 

From Luleå, the main city and gateway to Swedish Lapland, you can reach Jokkmokk and many other destinations along the coast and inland, from Piteå in the south to Haparanda on the border with Finland. Here you can immerse yourself in authentic experiences together with the locals: nature excursions on dog sledding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, outdoor lunches cooked over an open fire, ice fishing, encounters with the Sami and their reindeer, as well as living the unique experience of a wood-fired sauna. Finally, you can enjoy Swedish Lapland gastronomic specialties prepared with local ingredients, such as arctic char, reindeer meat, white whitefish eggs, wild berries, and mushrooms harvested in the Lappish forests.

 

 

Luleå can be reached by plane (Luleå Airport - LLA) or night trains from Stockholm, from where you can continue to other destinations by rental car, train, coach or organized transfers.