Many adults were thrilled as the enchanting Northern Lights graced the skies during our journey to northern Sweden, a region also known as Lapland. Witnessing this natural phenomenon on two consecutive nights was a stroke of luck as it is not guaranteed. Our days were filled with various activities such as husky sledding, snowshoe hiking, fire-building lessons, interacting with the indigenous Sámi people and their reindeer, and taking a refreshing plunge into the Bothnian Sea while wearing survival suits.
Lapland, a part of the Arctic, encompasses northern Scandinavia, with Luleå being the largest city and the primary entry point to this picturesque land of towering pine trees and clear blue skies. The chance to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis spans from early August to late April, with temperatures plummeting as low as -30°C from December to February.
Our accommodation was at Brändön Lodge, situated on the shores of Bothnian Sea, a short drive from Luleå Airport. Offering 15 cabins overlooking the Luleå archipelago and the Bay of Bothnia, the lodge served as an excellent base for exploration, providing guests with necessary snow gear. The main lodge boasted a restaurant, bar, lounge area, saunas, and relaxation cabins for a cozy retreat.
Another delightful stay was at the eco-lodge Arctic Retreat in Överstbyn, visited by actor Daniel Radcliffe. The lodge features three luxurious log cabins nestled by the Råne River, each equipped with an outdoor hot tub and indoor fireplace, providing ample living space for a comfortable stay.
One memorable dining experience included being sledded across a frozen bay to a warm garden shed for a delicious meal cooked by a personal chef. Cooking reindeer over an open fire and enjoying outdoor lunches by the Kalix River added unique flavors to our gastronomic journey.
Exploring the local flora and fauna during a snowshoe hike, meeting the Sámi people, feeding reindeer, and playing with huskies were among the highlights of our trip. For the adventurous, a visit to Arctic Bath for a sauna and ice bath ritual, and a cruise on the Polar Explorer Icebreaker for an icy dip in the Bothnian Sea, offered thrilling experiences.
The surreal beauty of the Northern Lights illuminated the night sky, creating a mesmerizing display of colors, making Swedish Lapland feel like a real-life Narnia – truly magical.
The Aurora Zone’s four-day Brändön Lodge – The Call of Adventure holiday package presents a similar experience to our tailored trip, including flights, transfers, activities, accommodation, and meals. For booking details, visit theaurorazone.com.
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