10 reasons to choose Swedish Lapland for your autumn escape

As autumn sets in, the endless forests of Swedish Lapland transform from the fresh greens of summer to the golden hues of the fall. For many, this is the most beautiful time of year to visit.

Autumn isn’t just about getting cosy in front of a roaring fire, as the nights draw in and the locals start to prepare for winter, it is also an opportune time for outdoor enthusiasts and aurora hunters.

To help you plan your perfect autumn escape, our Swedish expert Michelle has highlighted her favourite things to see and do in Lapland at this time of year.

1)    Kayaking in the Lulea archipelago

Lulea’s close proximity to water has naturally inspired a love of water sports, with kayaking being at the forefront. The tourist board, ‘Visit Lulea’ has created a guide which details the best kayaking routes according to fitness level.

Become at one with both the water and nature, and kayak at your own pace with the occasional seal as your companion.

2)    Foraging and wilderness dinner/cooking

In Swedish Lapland, honestly prepared food and the use of local produce is integral to every day life. As the seasons change, so does the food and this can be embraced in a number of ways.

Go foraging for berries at the best spots in the forest with the help of a local guide. Learn about the different varieties and then use your harvest to cook up some jam.

3)     Leaf peeping

With the forest ablaze with autumn colours it seems almost criminal not to capture this on camera. The roads and paths are quieter during this period, and you don’t have to get up at the earliest possible hour to capture the sunrise.

4)    Fat biking

Fat biking allows you to explore the very best of Swedish Lapland and it is a true Scandinavian experience you won’t forget. Ride over sand, rock and mud through secret trails whilst navigating the surrounding forests and archipelago.

5)    Hiking at Balinge mountain nature reserve

The Balinge Mountain is one of Lulea’s most beautiful nature reserves, boasting fantastic views. The 400-year-old pine trees in the forest, local wildlife and fauna makes hiking the Balinge mountain an educational and thrilling experience.

6)    Northern Lights photography tour

Having the opportunity to photograph arguably one of nature’s most magical sights with a trained professional is one of our most popular excursions.

7)    Stay at the TreeHotel

There are few hotels in the world that have received the media attention quite like that of the TreeHotel in recent years. It has captured the interest and heart of many.

Stay in the Mirror Cube, built around the trunk of a tree and accessed by a suspension bridge. The room itself reflects the surrounding forest and sympathetically blends into its environment.

Read all about our expert Cristana’s TreeHotel experience in our latest blog post.

8)    Sauna Ritual at the ICEHOTEL

The sauna is a longstanding tradition in northern Sweden and it is believed to have a wholesome effect on the mind and body.

Sauna like a local in 10 steps at the Jukkasjärvi Culture Sauna at the ICEHOTEL.

9)    Take the train across the Arctic Circle (from Lulea to Kiruna)

Sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery across the Artic Circle. The train travels from the coastal city of Lulea, through the low-lying forests to the mountain peaks of the Abisko National Park crossing the Arctic Circle on route. You can even continue to the fjordside town of Narvik in Norway.

10)      Spa experience at the Clarion Hotel Sense and/or Ripan Hotel Spa

At the Clarion Hotel Sense, indulge in a day spa and spend your time unwinding in the all seasons sauna, swimming leisurely in the pool or delighting in a sensual treatment for the body and soul.

Relax to a state of true peace and mindfulness at the Ripan Hotel Spa. The treatments at Aurora Spa are based on old Swedish, Sami and Torne Valley Finnish medical traditions.