Curious
Swedish Lapland is full of traditions, heritage, and culture. Learn more about the Arctic way of life - as it is today and historically. Develop your knowledge and abilities while you get to experience the best of Swedish nature and discover our Arctic Life.
During wintertime, behind the main timber cabin at Brändön Lodge, Sámi Jon-Anders has his reindeer for guests to greet, observe and feed. If you are lucky, the sweet and friendly animals can be seen from your own cosy and newly renovated cabin. By joining the Sámi Reindeer Experience, guests can ask questions about the lifestyle directly to Jon-Anders while relaxing nearby the open fire, surrounded by trees and in the quietness.
The local village of Brändön has a long history of small-scale farming, particularly fishing in the shallow waters of the archipelago and future out to sea. Your hosts and guides will only too happily discuss the stories and history of the region from a Swedish view point of view. This, combined with the fantastic cuisine in their log cabin restaurant, will give you a deep insight into the Arctic Life of northern Sweden fishing villages.
The river valleys of Swedish Lapland have an incredibly long history for the local Sami communities and, more recently, the influence of Swedish settlers attracted by the vast forests for timber, the rivers for fishing and the fertile river valley soils for small-scale farming. At Arctic Retreat, they attempt to respect, honour, and lift all these cultural perspectives. One such experience is Eva Gunnare, a Swede who married into a Reindeer herding family and today is a local icon, able to give an insight into the nature around us and how it has been used for food by all. Her taste of the eight seasons experience is not to be missed.
Arctic Retreat has many experiences, including Swedish Baking, Foraging, Wild Swimming, and Sami Family visits, which, combined with its small scale and personal service from your local hosts, will guarantee a deep insight into the local culture and their Arctic Life.
Following the Lule river north, Sápmi Nature Camp appears as we enter the World Heritage Laponia. The closest neighbour is found kilometres away, which makes a stay here very private. Traditional Lavvus in beige fabrics, a simple log timber main building, and a sauna at the end of a small path next to the shore from Sápmi Nature. Notwithstanding the magnificent surroundings, its sámi owner, Lennart, who has a great passion for his culture and strives to preserve nature, is the highlight of this Experience.
Lennart's storytelling and descriptions are astonishing to hear. While being gathered around the firepit or the dinner table, Lennart has something exciting and educational to tell. The sustainable and down-to-earth mindset permeates the camp in all aspects, from the heating of the rooms to the bathrooms—everything with a traditional touch. This is a must for anyone interested in the sámi lifestyle and culture. You can't ask for a better source of information and a more congenial host.
These suggestions are only for inspiration. Many possible combinations of accommodation and activities might fulfil your interests. Please don't hesitate to contact us for more information or to discuss other options. Once you have planned an itinerary you can contact each hotel or lodge directly or get in touch with your favourite travel agent.