5 Reasons You Absolutely Must Visit Swedish Lapland

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If you’re looking for a winter wonderland over the next few months, then look no further than Swedish Lapland. A pristine arctic paradise and one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe, a visit to Swedish Lapland is the perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure for nature lovers. Want to learn more? Here are our top five reasons to head to Swedish Lapland this winter:

The Cross-Country Skiing

Lapland is one of the best places in the world for cross-country skiing, and it was here that we had our first encounter with the sport. We chose to try traditional wooden skis; awkwardly long and coated with resin on the bottom, they feel surprisingly different from the downhill style skis you might have used before.

Of course, the novelty of the skis is also half the fun! It’s best to begin on flat terrains, traversing through the forest and getting a feel for the way you should slide the skis back and forth while working the poles for support. Cross-country skiing is certainly a great workout—even when you are a novice, you still feel that burn in your thighs and arms.

For a particularly memorable experience, leave all civilization behind and stay in a wilderness cabin only accessible by ski or snowmobile. The jaw-dropping beauty of skiing through unmarked snow is an experience bound to stay with you for a lifetime.

PHOTO: Cross-country skiing through Swedish Lapland

The Animals

Our first adventure in Swedish Lapland was coming face-to-face with one of the biggest wild animals in Europe—the moose. We recommend a safari via Icelandic Horse for some of your best chances at sighting the animal; we spotted eight different moose during a brief two-hour horseback riding tour. These gigantic animals were amazing to watch as they grazed and trotted through the forest, their heavy hooves sinking deep into the snow on every step.  Add to that the experience of riding adorable and gentle Icelandic Horses, and you have got yourself one amazing afternoon.

PHOTO: Icelandic Horseback Riding on a Moose Safari

It is also common to spot reindeer during a trip to Swedish Lapland. The indigenous Sami people have an intimate connection with the reindeer, similar to that of the Native Americans and the buffalo. There are actually more reindeer than people in Lapland, and the animals have long served as food, clothing and transportation for the Sami people.

Believe it or not, reindeer sleds are not only the invention of Santa Claus; they once served as the primary mode of transportation in Lapland. They also remain to be the only transportation you are allowed to drive while drunk!

The Dog Sledding

Don your bibs and boots, because it’s time to go mushing! There are numerous opportunities throughout Lapland to catch a ride from a band of husky dogs, and this is one ride you won’t want to miss. Husky dogs love to pull sleds, and before any expedition they go nuts with excitement, barking and jumping in anticipation.

But as soon as the dogs are allowed to pull and the sleds begin to move, the only sounds you’ll hear are the steady patter of the dogs’ feet and the sound of the sledge gliding effortlessly across the snow.

PHOTO: Learn to drive your own dog sled

Expeditions range from a couple of hours to a couple of weeks. We only had the chance to spend a few hours with our furry friends, but we can imagine that a weeklong expedition would be the adventure of a lifetime!

The Traditional Sauna

After a long day of adventures out in the snow, there’s no better way to thaw out than in a traditional sauna. The traditional sauna is integral to Lappish culture. The basic sauna experience involves either a public or private sauna room, where a furnace is used to heat the room. Water is then thrown onto stones atop the furnace to create the humidity.

In many saunas you’ll see a bundle of birch tree branches, which are used to gently whip the skin and relax the muscles. When you can’t stand the heat any longer, it’s time for an ice bath. If you want to do it right, you’ll be dunking yourself in the nearby lake, which is likely an ice hole just above freezing.

It’s also possible to cool down with a refreshing roll in the snow (weather permitting), though we actually prefer the ice water.

PHOTO: Traditional Sauna

The Northern Lights

A phenomenon of the natural world, the Northern Lights are high on most adventure travelers’ bucket lists. There are few better places to see them than in Lapland, away from the cities and excess light pollution. For the ultimate guide to seeing the Northern Lights, don’t miss this post.

PHOTO: The Northern Lights dance across the night sky

How To Go

Ready to visit Swedish Lapland now?

Our wilderness adventure with Aurora Retreat was one of the most unique, memorable trips we’ve taken. If you’re looking for inspiring scenery, active adventures or cultural experiences in the arctic of Swedish Lapland, you really can’t go wrong. Aurora Retreat will provide everything you need, including equipment, food, and wilderness guide. All of the family-run, eco-friendly trips are also fully customizable to include the above activities and more.