Things to see and do Norrland

Never seen an elk in your life and you've been waiting to see one since you arrived in Sweden? Visit the Bjurholm Elk Farm for an unforgettable experience with these Swedish forest dwellers! This farm allows you to see these emblematic animals of Scandinavia and to observe them from very close. There is also a museum dedicated to the elk, organized outdoor activities, a restaurant and a souvenir store. A real fairy tale for children!

In Strömsund, take Route 342 which leads to the splendid caves of Korallgrottan, a little after Stora Blåsjön, near the Norwegian border. This 6 km long underground labyrinth was discovered only in 1985. 

Located above Storsjön Lake, the Moose Garden offers a rather unusual opportunity. This park invites you to rub shoulders with moose without any barriers between you and these majestic, usually wild and elusive animals. Sune Häggmark, the master of the animals, has even become a celebrity in Sweden for having used the excrement of his elk to recycle them into an excellent quality paper. Also a milk and cheese producer! The place also offers the possibility of accommodation with a view of the Swedish mountains.

Frösötornet was originally built in 1888. It stands at the highest point of Frösön, at 468 m above sea level. It is 14.50 m high and has an elevator. At the top you have a wonderful panoramic view of the surrounding landscape with lakes and forests. At the foot of the tower there is a cybercafé where you can have a delicious snack! Perfect place to have a different view of the area, and attractive in winter and summer!

Located on the largest island of Storjsön, Frösö Church is a popular venue for religious weddings. According to ancient myths, the island was dedicated to the fertility god, Frö. Dating from the 12th century, it is topped by a magnificent 18th century wooden bell tower. One of its bells was cast with copper extracted from a mine on the Åre mountain. In Frösö Cemetery, ancestors from different eras are buried up to pre-Christian times.

Rich in animals, forests, marshes and meadows, the Muddus site is part of the Unesco World Heritage in Lapland. Perfect for long hikes, there are trapper's huts to spend the night. Here live lynxes, bears, and a remarkable flora. Information at the tourist office, where you can ask for the services of guides. Walking along the trails, you will see the traces of people who lived in this area long ago. For example, you can see the foundations of houses built 100 years ago.

A guided tour of the largest underground iron ore mine in the world. The tour takes you 540 meters underground on an underground track that the bus can take (the mine has 400 km of them)! The development of the mine, its impact on the city - and the ongoing displacement of certain neighborhoods - and the processing of iron are explained in broad strokes, before showing some old machines and other tools in a small museum.

The Regional Museum Gävleborg houses a splendid collection of Swedish art from the ^17th century to the present day, including works by Alexander Roslin, Marcus Larsson and Carl Larsson. Recently, a room has been dedicated to Gunnar Cyrén (an artist famous for his glass pieces). It is notable and pleasing to note the discrepancy that has been created by the presentation, in the same rooms, of works from diametrically opposed styles and periods. A mini circus tent.

Follow Norra Strandgatan, then Fagerlinsvägen, and take the small shady path to the small, pleasant and quiet public beach of Gültzauudden, almost in the center of town. It is a nice beach among the many swimming spots in the area. It is a very popular place among the locals, especially for children. In the summer you can enjoy a nice swim in the sun with an ice cream. Less popular in winter, but why not visit anyway. The coastline always invites for a meditative walk!

Located 1 km south, you will find the lake of Falkträsket, a very popular place among the locals, especially in summer. Peaceful landscape where you can swim and explore the area in a boat. Perfect for a picnic in the sun!

7 km north on the E4 is Boviksbadet: a beach with a view of the surrounding islands. Easily accessible by car and has a campsite.

30 km north is Byske Havsbad: a long sandy beach with restaurants/cafes and public toilets. Very popular with the locals.

Mackmyra Svensk Whisky is a distillery located in Gävle. It offers guided tours of the Swedish whisky-making process. Visitors can learn about the different stages of production, from ingredient selection to distillation and aging. The tour lasts around two hours and also includes a tasting of some of the distillery's finest products. Visitor feedback was mixed. Some enjoyed the tour and found the guide knowledgeable and interesting. Others were disappointed by the lack of information in English and the service at the distillery restaurant. Some also noted that the gift store did not offer a wide variety of products.

Öregrund, located in Sweden, is a charming coastal town offering a unique atmosphere with narrow streets, small boutiques, tempting restaurants and cafés. Visitors shouldn't miss the guided walking tours and Öregrundsmåndag shows, organized by famous locals and artists, near the Västra Banken lightship. The town has a chequered history, with accidental fires and devastating conflagrations caused by both Russians and Danes. In the late 19th century, Öregrund became a popular spa resort, with the construction of a hotel, baths and clubhouse. Many visitors flocked to Öregrund and sumptuous summer houses with glass verandas were built, many of which are still standing today. In Öregrund, you can watch the sun set over the water from one of the rocks lining the town, or dine at the Strandnära or Tullbacken restaurants. You can stay at Klockargården, Epokgården, Lilla Hotell Wilma or the Uddens guesthouse. You can also rent bicycles, canoes and small boats in Öregrund.

In the basement of this large building, a museum is dedicated to the memory of the Sami people, now largely a minority in their historical territory. Objects, clothing, accessories used by this people are exhibited and a traditional Saami tent is reproduced. Only three rooms, not very large but interesting if you take the time to read the explanations in English. Thus, we will learn more about the noaidi, this priest-medic who ensured the link between the spirits and the natural world, or about Lars Nilsson, Saami martyr burned for example.

A museum housed in the barracks of the former A8 regiment, which tells the military history of Sweden, in times of peace and war. Miniature reconstruction of the Boden fort, collection of uniforms, insignia and especially, outside, many equipment of the Swedish army (tanks, artillery pieces, military trucks...). A few steps from the Patinamuseet and near the river, you can stop by the museum during your walk or during your visits.

Nordanå includes, among others, the Skellefteå Museum, which traces the 150-year history of the town, the Nordanå Theatre and an open-air museum that houses some red wooden houses built in the ^18th century in its park. In summer, ethno-tourists can discover the traditional activities of the region through exhibitions of old furniture and looms. Local handicrafts include ceramics, jewelry and sheep's wool mittens. In the old school converted into a museum, crafts and paintings are exhibited.

A central building and 4 annexes, 100 beds, catering.

This museum allows you to discover different types of old dwellings and presents the way the inhabitants lived 100 years ago. Indeed, Hägnan is an archaeological site of the ^14th century where there was a presbytery. Today the village has been recreated around this symbolic place. It is a real work of reconstitution and not of reconstruction which was carried out. The oldest houses are from the ^18th century and the interior of the houses is richly decorated.

Old Catholic church built in the ^15th century and consecrated in 1492, the interior has magnificent frescoes that were for a time covered (^18th century), they date from the late Middle Ages and come from the school of Albertus Pictor. In the center, the wooden tabernacle relates the Passion of Christ, one of the most beautiful in Sweden, made in Antwerp around 1520 by a Flemish master. The baptismal font, the pulpit and the murals harmonize perfectly with the organ, inaugurated in 1971, which consists of 4,200 pipes made in Gammelstad.

This restaurant, whose name is difficult to mouthful by us, serves refined cuisine concocted by a Norwegian chef. The servings are small and very well presented. It is more gastronomy than anything else but amateurs will appreciate. Also a beautiful wine card.

A cruise with meals on board, traditional singing and island tours, mini-cruises and excursions are organized during the summer by this company, which offers several formulas to discover the archipelagos of islands surrounding the city. Extraordinary excursions that you will not soon forget, to be booked for days of good weather. The opportunity to discover the enchanting landscapes of the Luleå archipelago and, in summer, the astonishing colours of the midnight sun. In winter, the company offers you the chance to go hunting for the Northern Lights.

A little out of the city centre, attached to the university, this centre allows young and old alike to discover certain modern technological inventions and to understand how they work. A much smaller Cité des sciences! The main themes are concentrated on the major Swedish activities: mining, fishing, forestry, etc. Texts in Swedish are often in English, but the most important thing is to be able to touch and test! A nice introduction to the main economic activities in Swedish Lapland.

Opened in 2007, the building is the pride of the city. Designed by a Swedish architect, it houses the tourist office, the municipal library, an art gallery, a café and a restaurant. You can move around freely, enjoy the comfortable seats and especially the view of the sea from the large windows that surround the building. Internet access is available from the tourist office and library. Ideal to settle down and prepare the next step!

This site is one of a kind. It is the only space base open (intermittently) to civilians. Rockets and atmospheric balloons are launched here. A tour including transportation to Esrange, presentation, guided tour is possible. For those who have less time and a smaller budget, a Visitor Center is open in the summer on the spot, where a shorter and lighter version of the tour is available. Book in advance.

A traditional Saami camp, explaining the Saami way of life, their customs, etc. At the back of the museum, there is an enclosure where you can freely see reindeer. We will also pass by the small store that sells Sami handicrafts. You can also stay in a chalet or a tent and enjoy the typical snow sports of the region. Note that from April to early June, the reindeer graze in the mountains and are therefore not visible. Entrance is then free.

Mining is the engine of the local economy and the reason for the city's expansion. Two companies exploit the deposits here: LKAB for iron and AITIK for copper. It is therefore possible to go underground to understand how iron ore is extracted or to discover the impressive fault where the copper comes from. We discover the role of the different machines and miners, as well as the importance of these materials in our daily lives. Original and instructive visits.

You should stop here when you arrive in Kiruna, because the team knows everything, the structure is very well designed. This is where you can organize your excursions and outings in the area: canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rafting, sleigh rides, skiing, snow scooters in winter, and many other things... You can also book a visit to the LKAB mine here. The English-speaking staff at the tourist office are as competent as they are passionate and will be happy to help you organise your stay in Kiruna.

The church city of Arvidsjaur is extremely well preserved. These pyramid-shaped Lappish tents were never permanently inhabited by the Sami, but were used as overnight accommodation during religious retreats. The buildings are still owned by the Sami people today. It is the largest preserved Saami village, with many outbuildings and barns dating from the ^18th century. Not to be missed if you pass by Arvidsjaur!

Built in 1889, this white church with a pale green roof is rather original in the area. It looks like a fairy tale castle! Gothic-inspired architecture, but the interior is a model of sobriety - a real contrast. On the other hand, the painting above the altar is not at all banal: the Last Supper representing Christ surrounded by the Apostles is very modern, which is surprising, we must say. The visit is worth the detour!

Built in 1753, a fire totally destroyed it in 1972 and it was rebuilt identically. The interior is decorated in the same colors: blue, red and yellow. The church building is an elongated octagon with one floor and a vaulted roof. Around the church, a curtain wall was built in the style of the one that existed in the ^19th century. The crosses, chandeliers and hymn board of the church are made of wood from the fire-damaged church.

A few meters from the Ajtte museum, the garden focuses mainly on the mountain flora of the area. You can stroll along the paths, enjoy the landscape, and discover rare flowers with wonderful colors. The garden is maintained with great care and the gardeners strive to recreate small mountain ecosystems in the beds. Ethnobiology is also discussed, describing how people in the North use wild plants.

A superb site at the intersection between the Piteälven and Vitbäcken rivers near the town of Vidsel. From Jokkmokk on the road 45,70 km before Arvidsjaur, turn left on Route 374 on 35 km to the village of Bredsel. Just before joining, the Vitbäcken and Piteälven rivers turn into a timeless succession of rapids. The flow of the river is enormous. In order to be better able to attend the show, the banks have been set up in an enchanting place of relaxation spaces for the family in the midst of an offshoot of calm streams.

To learn about the culture of the region and the history of the city and its surroundings. You will find paintings, objects, reconstructions of some traditional habitats, some dating back to the Middle Ages, as well as temporary exhibitions featuring local artists. One of its largest collections, Hilding Mickelsson, consists of about 150,000 photographs, documenting rural societies and their cultures, as well as portraits.

A museum that retraces the history of the region since the men settled there. Three large rooms on the third floor take the visitor on a journey from the forest, with its wolves and trappers, to the typical Norrboten house of the 19th century. Period objects, stuffed animals and a sound atmosphere make for a pleasant visit. It also explains the evolution of iron ore mining for more than a century and the calamity of the mosquito in the area! On the second floor, shop and collection of old cameras.

An interesting reserve because it is easily accessible from the centre. An important tourist destination for more than a century, this protected area is home to a wide variety of animals (many birds such as the intrepid plover, the golden plover or the ptarmigan) and plants (more than 200 varieties including Lapland lousewort, rare azaleas, mountain heather...). At 820 m above sea level, Dundret offers a superb panorma

Located in the north-east of the city, the Murberget Open Air Museum is a sort of mini Skansen (its Stockholm big brother), with old summer farms, animal pens and activities reminiscent of rural life in the Ångermanland region. The museum and its surroundings are open to the public all year round and there is the charming Lindas Mat & Café restaurant. The perfect place for a day of rest and discovery in the heart of Murberget!

The river Skellefteälv and its built banks are perfect for a long walk which describes a pleasant loop, first by way of the village-church, then by taking steps on the small island of Kyrkholmen (where the summer Kyrkholmen Café serves delicious Swedish brussell to the chicoutés, these Nordic little blackberries). Then, past the church, you must admire Lejonströmsbron, the bridge of the lion's current. It is the oldest wooden bridge accessible to vehicles across Sweden. Supported by large stone piers, it dominates the vif waters of the river. Every seven years, the work must undergo renovations because the studded tires of cars use the boards that cover it. The place witnessed an important battle between the Swedish and Russian armies in 1809, but it was not destroyed! The walk continues on the other side, where you can reach the centre via the other bridge.

Located at the western end of the city of Umeå, the sculpture park is quiet and secluded. Interesting and original, it offers a beautiful space with works by many Swedish and international artists. It is a perfect place to spend a meditative afternoon among the birdsong and the trees. In winter as well as in summer, the sculptures occupy the space in a captivating way. Admission is free at any time of the year, but the place is not very interesting when there is too much snow.

For those who want to discover the fauna of the region, nothing like a visit of this exhibition which presents more than 650 empaillées animals, including the "big five", the five great predators such as the bear, lynx, wolf, wolverine and eagle. You can also sleep on the premises, rent bikes or enjoy large, their beer, reindeer or duck barbecues.

Great museum of local culture, modern and interactive! The exhibits, some fixed, some temporary, are devoted to different aspects of the region's history. They talk about geology, handicrafts, painting, and subjects more specific to the history of Luleå. A museum to discover, despite the lack of explanation in English... The museum also organizes events open to all. You can also sit in the café for a fika.

Opened in 1900, this amusement park has been modernized over the decades, while retaining its old-fashioned charm. Today, it has sixteen attractions, a water park, a water trail to discover the fauna of South America, and a zoo with forty species from around the world, including many primates. All summer long, Swedish and international artists perform on the park's big stage, so be sure to check out the program!

This is the mountain where the Aurora Sky observation station is located, which can be reached by cable car. From the chairlift, a superb view unfolds over the entire valley. A refuge awaits you at the top. Unfortunately, it is not possible to sleep there, but it is a magical place to enjoy a hot coffee or tea with Swedish cakes while sitting by the stove. Then, following the gentle slope of the mountain with its few snowdrifts, you can reach a deserted platform, a very mysterious place covered with small mounds of flat stones.

The F15 Flight Museum is an aviation museum located in Söderhamn. It is housed in a former Swedish Air Force base, known as F15, which was active during the Cold War. The museum houses a collection of historic aircraft, some of which were used by the Swedish Air Force. The museum also organizes temporary exhibitions and activities for visitors, such as guided tours and flight simulators.

Climbing the hill where the Oscarsborg tower is erected is a must to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Söderhamn area. The tower was originally an observation point and is now closed. However, the panorama and the hiking path winding through the trees make the place an ideal excursion for hiking enthusiasts. The place is accessible by car or motorcycle, as there is a parking lot near the summit. Not far from there is a small café to recover from the climb! Wheelchair access is possible.

Dedicated to the history of the place of women in our society, the Kvinnohistoriskt museum is the first establishment of its kind in the world! The project, launched in 2014 at the initiative of researchers, was to create "a living museum," a place for meetings and debate. The museum presents only temporary exhibitions but has a specific goal: "To describe and deconstruct the ideas, norms and structures that limit the choices and possibilities of women and men today."

The seven decorated farmhouses of Hälsingland (Hälsingegårdar) have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021. The walls of these large wooden buildings are decorated with paintings that combine motifs from folk traditions with styles popular in the ^19th century, such as baroque and rococo.

The Stenegård Cultural Center is located in one of these farms. Contact them to find out which farm is closest to your location! A very pleasant activity where many festivities are organized (concerts, bread or cheese making).

Wij Trädgårdar, one of the country's most beautiful parks, is a 25-minute train ride from Gävle. A very nice place to learn about nature, food, culture and how to combine them. Guided tour, workshops, playground and restaurant. Perfect place for a family afternoon or a romantic walk! In summer, the place organizes seasonal thematic activities and contains 8 different gardens such as the herb garden, the forest garden, the children's garden, and a rose garden!

Tom and Lotta Svensson are reindeer herders. They will show you how to herd the herd, help you get acquainted with the bear huts and talk about shamanism over a good fire and coffee. An interesting, enriching and authentic way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Several tours are available, ask the establishment directly. In the summer, it is possible to spend one or more nights in a kåta, a traditional shelter. All this in a relaxing natural setting.

This cute little town has a water mill (powered by a hammerhead), a blast furnace, a mansion and over 60 workers' houses. The manor house was built in 1883 for the mill manager and is now used as a restaurant. It can also be rented! The 18th century factory comes back to life each summer when craftsmen and painters occupy the workshops. The forests and waterways have enabled the production of high quality pig iron and bar iron. A true cultural heritage!

Approaching the pink church of Arjeplog, it almost looks like it is made of sugar. Once inside, the red and green pews put us in the Christmas atmosphere. In 1634, the discovery of silver in the region led to the establishment of four parishes, including Arjeplog. This church is peculiar in that the altar is turned abnormally to the west. The inhabitants explain this eccentricity by aesthetic issues; the view from the church was much nicer for the ships arriving at Arjeplog.

On the eastern side of the Härnön peninsula, 5 km from the city centre, there is a long white sandy beach bordered by steep rocks. Protected by the Smitingen nature reserve, this beach is isolated from urban noise pollution, yet remains very accessible. Signposted paths lead to caves and coarse pebble beaches, as well as to the beautiful Klubbsjön lake. There is a café on the beach for your midday hunger. If you don't have a car, you can also get there by bike in only 25 minutes from the city centre!