Skiing
If you're looking to spend sometime in the great outdoors, skiing is a great option. With over 200 ski resorts, there'll be one to suit. From family-orientated easy runs to off-piste skiing for the daredevils among you, Sweden is home to hundreds of gorgeous locations to go exploring in. There's nothing quite like the rush of flying past forests through the snow! Head back to open fires in wooden chalets – or, if you prefer, a nice modern hotel with central heating. Whether you want to spend the evening cuddled up underneath thick blankets, or relax in a spa, you'll be able to find a resort that caters to you.
The Northern Lights
If it's magic you want, you definitely want to make sure to see the Northern lights. Though you can never guarantee their appearance, you can increase your chances by going in the winter months (October through to March). Head north to the Abisko National Park, a location well known for its clear weather – even when the rest of the country is overcast! Some tour companies offer day trips, which can be risky due to the inability to guarantee their appearance, but do mean you don't have to spend days in the cold! For those looking for a bit more of an adventure, head out for a few days camping and increase your chances. Snuggle up beneath luminous blues, greens and purple and you'll instantly feel transported to a land where magic might just exist.
The Wildlife
Head out into the wilderness with a local tour guide to hunt down some of Sweden's best wildlife. Home to wolverines, moose, wolves, brown bears, lynxes and musk oxen, it's one of the best places
to see these unusual creatures in their natural habitats. There's a tour well suited to everyone too – if you're the adventurous type, then head out on foot for a few days. If not – take your time, and head to some of the quieter places by snowmobile. There's nothing quite like catching a glimpse of the elusive lynx, or realising just how huge a moose is when you see it coming up next to you!
The Sami
The Sami are the indigenous people of Sweden, and have one of the oldest surviving cultures on earth. If you make your way there in February, you'll be able to catch the four hundred year old Jokkmokk market, a celebration of culture and local tradition. From fashion shows to reindeer racing, there's something for everyone. Check out visitSapmi – an indigenous owned tourist group that's eco-friendly and has all the best tips for truly coming to learn and experience Sami culture.
Dog Sledding!
Who doesn't love huskies? Spend a day or two out sledding with a full team of them, giving you a great chance to get closer to nature alongside some of the cutest and most hard-working dogs in the world. Whether it's for a couple of hours, or an ongoing, cross-country tour, there are packages out there for you. You could even combine it with hunting for the Northern lights, or going on a quest to see Sweden's wildlife.
Christmas Markets
If it's the true fairytale experience you want, the Christmas markets of Malmo, Stockholm and Gothenburg are sure to tempt you. With the scent of mulled wine filling the air and wooden stalls filled with handcrafted delights, it's like walking into a picture book. It's a great place to try out the local delicacies and to buy some gifts for those sure to be jealous when you get home!
Whilst the winter might be colder, and sure, there's no chance for sunbathing, you'll get a unique fairytale experience you can't find elsewhere. From starlit fields of snow, to roaring fires with roasting meats waiting for you to try them, Sweden is a land of wonders -and one just waiting for you to check it out.
By Peter Smith and BalticTravelCompany.com!
See. The Northern Lights- What to know and where to see them
