Swedish Lapland extends from Kiruna and Abisko in the north to Luleå and Haparanda along the Gulf of Bothnia. Between December and March the landscape transforms into an arctic territory where the sun disappears for weeks, the sea freezes and the Northern Lights illuminate the nights. This is a guide to the concrete experiences that make a trip to this region different from any other winter destination.
Hunting for the Northern Lights: where and when
The winter of 2025-2026 coincides with the peak of the 11-year solar cycle, which means increased activity and more frequent, intense auroras. Abisko National Park, near the Norwegian border, is considered one of the best spots in the world thanks to a microclimate that guarantees often clear skies and zero light pollution.
The Aurora Sky Station on Mount Nuolja can be reached by cable car and offers photographic excursions guided by professionals who teach the techniques for immortalizing the phenomenon. The season runs from September to March, peaking between December and January when the polar night also offers the “blue hour” – that moment in which the landscape takes on unreal blue shades because the sun always remains below the horizon.
The auroras can be observed everywhere in the region: many facilities organize night outings by snowmobile, snowshoes or simply on foot. The important thing is to move away from the lights of the built-up areas and be patient.
On the frozen Gulf of Bothnia: roads and icebreakers
Since December the Gulf of Bothnia has solidified, reaching half a meter thick. Around 30 kilometers of ice roads, 40-45 meters wide, are laid along the coast of Luleå, connecting the mainland to the islands of the archipelago. You can drive across what is open sea in summer.
A 10 kilometer track also starts from the port for walking, skating or trying the “spark”, a sled-chair that is pushed like a scooter. From Brändön Lodge, located on an island north of Luleå, snowmobile or cross-country ski excursions depart directly onto the frozen sea surface.
The most unique experience is the cruise on the Polar Explorer or Arctic Explorer icebreakers, active between December and March. You witness the power of the ships crushing the ice pack, you walk on sea ice and, wearing thermal survival suits, you can dive and float between the ice sheets.
ICEHOTEL: the hotel that melts every spring
In Jukkasjärvi, a few kilometers from Kiruna, the ICEHOTEL has been active since 1989 and is rebuilt from scratch every winter. For the 2025-2026 season, 29 artists from 9 countries have transformed 2,000 tons of ice from the Torne River into 12 art suites and 20 rooms. The opening is set for December 12th.
You sleep at -5/-7 degrees in special thermal sleeping bags, on beds with mattresses and reindeer skins. Each suite is a temporary art installation that melts in the spring. The famous Ice Bar serves drinks in sculpted ice glasses. There is also the ICEHOTEL 365, a permanent section powered by solar energy that allows the experience even in summer.
The hotel offers packages that include a night in the traditional hot rooms and an ice room, plus arctic activities and gastronomic experiences with local ingredients.
Sami culture: authentic encounters beyond folklore
The Sami are the only indigenous people in Europe and in Swedish Lapland their culture is present and alive. Several families open their doors to visitors to share traditions, stories and cuisine.
In Jokkmokk, near the Arctic Circle, Silba Siida runs meetings where the Sami couple Anna and Erik welcome guests in the lavvu, the traditional tent. You listen to stories, eat food cooked on the fire and watch joik, the ancient form of singing that passes on collective memory and emotions.
On the coast near Luleå, Dálvvás Sámi Culture Experiences offers guided tours from Marita, who brings her reindeer from the mountains to the plains during the winter. You can feed the animals, taste dried reindeer meat and thin bread while sitting in the lavvu. Evening visits include riverside forest walks stopping by the fire to warm up with cranberry drinks, often with the Northern Lights as a backdrop.
Sauna and ice baths
Sauna culture is deeply rooted in northern Sweden. In Kukkolaforsen, on the border between Sweden and Finland along the Torne river, there are 16 saunas of different sizes and types: wood-fired, smoke-fired, traditional and modern. The ritual always involves alternating intense heat and immersion in freezing water or snow.
The Arctic Bath in Harads is a circular structure that floats on the Lule River in summer and remains surrounded by ice in winter. The spa offers a sauna-immersion route in the river using natural products based on oils extracted from blueberry seeds, arctic raspberries and birch leaves. The experience combines physical well-being with connection to arctic nature.
In Kiruna, Camp Ripan’s Aurora Spa has been awarded internationally for its concept based on contrasts: you go from inside to outside, from heat to cold, from snow to water, from light to dark. Here too, only natural local products are used.
Glass igloo and architecture in nature
The Ice & Light Village, on a peninsula near Luleå, offers five contemporary-designed glass igloos. The structure is heated but allows a 360 degree view of the snowy landscape. Includes sauna and heated outdoor tub to observe the stars and Northern Lights in total comfort.
Villa Äng opens on December 21st, a retreat located just below the Arctic Circle which is rented in full to only one group at a time (up to 10 people). The property combines Scandinavian design and Arctic nature: five rooms, dining room, lounge, sauna, outdoor tub and views of the Lule River. Includes 24-hour concierge service and, upon request, private chef.
For those who prefer more traditional options, Haparanda Stadshotell is a historic city hotel that offers a convenient base for exploring the region.
Practical information for organizing your trip
Luleå and Kiruna are connected to Stockholm with direct flights. Kiruna also has connections from Copenhagen. There is the option of a night train from Stockholm, which allows you to wake up directly in the Arctic landscape.
Once you arrive, you can travel by rental car, regional trains, buses or with transfers organized directly by the accommodation facilities. Many experiences and activities are booked in advance through individual local business websites or through hotels.
The best period is from December to March. December and January offer the polar night and “blue hour”, February and March have longer days with more light for daytime activities. Temperatures fluctuate between -10 and -30 degrees: layered thermal clothing, winter boots, gloves and hat are essential.
Most outdoor activities are provided with thermal suits and appropriate equipment by the organizers. No reservations are needed for the Northern Lights: clear skies, darkness and patience are enough.
