Hiking in Hemavan
Hemavan is an ideal destination for hiking, far from mass tourism. Surrounded by mountains and vast natural spaces, it is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility, nature and adventure.
The region is lively all year round. In summer, Hemavan offers numerous hiking trails accessible to all levels, in the heart of unspoilt landscapes. In winter, the Hemavan ski resort is renowned for its varied slopes and friendly atmosphere, far from overcrowded ski stations.
Many routes are available, suited to both experienced hikers and casual walkers. For the more adventurous, there are multi-day hikes with the possibility of sleeping in mountain huts along the trails. Other shorter and more accessible routes also allow you to fully enjoy the landscapes without requiring extensive experience.
Discover the best hikes on the AllTrails app:
Snowmobile
Discover Swedish Lapland in a whole new way with a snowmobile excursion through the snowy landscapes of Hemavan. Accompanied by a local guide, you will cross forests, frozen lakes and mountains, far from overcrowded tourist areas.
This activity is ideal for experiencing thrilling sensations while enjoying the calm and beauty of the Arctic nature.
Price: 150 CHF / person
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Where to book? Please visit the Swedish Lapland tourism office website.
Practical tips: Remember to bring thermal underwear and good gloves.
Northern Lights
How to maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights in Sweden?
1. Choose the darkest months
The ideal period to admire the northern lights in Sweden runs from September to March, when the nights are long and dark enough for observation.
2. Head north of the Arctic Circle
Although the lights can occasionally be seen further south, regions north of the Arctic Circle offer the best conditions, particularly around Kiruna and Abisko.
3. Get away from light pollution
To fully enjoy the display, it is essential to minimise light pollution. Favour rural areas or opt for a guided excursion to an isolated site with an open horizon.
4. Check the weather and solar activity
A clear sky is essential for viewing the aurora. Check local weather forecasts and use specialised apps that track solar activity and indicate the probability of an appearance. The app I recommend downloading is called Aurora.
Abisko
Abisko is recognised as one of the best places in the world to observe the northern lights, making it an unmissable destination for enthusiasts of this natural phenomenon. Surrounded by mountains, Abisko National Park benefits from a particular microclimate that very often provides clear skies, even when surrounding regions are cloud-covered. This makes it one of the most reliable locations in Sweden for admiring the aurora.
For an even more spectacular experience, take the chairlift up to the Aurora Sky Station. From its observation platform, you will enjoy an exceptional panoramic view. The site also features an exhibition dedicated to the northern lights, a café to warm up in and a souvenir shop.
Located approximately 100 kilometres west of Kiruna, Abisko is easily accessible by daily shuttle services. Several accommodation options are available on site, including the STF Abisko Tourist Station, ideal for staying in the heart of nature.
The Night Train
Night trains in Sweden are an excellent option for reaching Lapland in a comfortable and unique way.
The ticket price generally ranges between 50 and 100 CHF, depending on the type of seat chosen. Several options are available: 3 or 6-person couchettes, as well as seated places for travellers on a tighter budget.
On board, the train has a restaurant car offering quality food, as well as toilets and showers, making the journey more comfortable despite its long duration. There are also plenty of spaces for storing luggage.
The train departs from Stockholm Central Station and the journey to Abisko takes approximately 16 hours, with several stops along the way.
This mode of transport is an excellent alternative to flying, allowing you to discover magnificent landscapes and meet interesting people, both tourists and Swedes alike.
The night train journey is a true adventure in itself. For more information, it is recommended to visit the official SJ website.
What is the best time to visit Swedish Lapland?
Spring
Early spring is often considered by locals to be the best time of year. The return of the sun marks an ideal moment for skiing, snowmobile excursions or simply enjoying a fika outdoors on the snow. As the season progresses, reindeer give birth and tourist numbers drop — a perfect period for travellers on a tighter budget.
Winter
In winter, snow brightens the short days while the northern lights illuminate the sky with shades of green, pink and purple. The longest season of the year, winter also corresponds to the peak tourist season. Well equipped against the cold, you can enjoy a wide range of unforgettable outdoor activities.
Summer
June is famous for the midnight sun, but this continuous light illuminates Swedish Lapland for almost the entire summer. The endless days offer ideal conditions for making the most of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling or swimming, at any hour, day or night.
Autumn
Early autumn is the ideal season for hiking in Swedish Lapland. Mosquitoes become less bothersome and the landscapes are adorned with vibrant colours. Nature becomes a true larder, rich in mushrooms and berries. It is also an important period for traditional hunting.