Autumn Forest Auroras in Arctic Sweden

Arrive in Sweden’s stylish capital and transfer to the Downtown Camper in the heart of the city. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps visit the spa and relax in the rooftop pool, or head out and explore the city. The old town, Gamla Stan, is one of Europe’s most arresting historic hubs, full of storybook buildings, imposing palaces and cobblestone streets. You’ll find café’s on every corner with windows full of traditional cinnamon buns. If you would like to dine in the city in the evening, ask Emma to book you a table at a fabulous restaurant in the city. Alternatively the Downtown Camper’s Grill & Bar serves delicious comfort food from around the globe.

Spend today enjoying the sights of Stockholm. Visit Vasamuseum, a custom-built home of the massive warship, Vasa, which was the pride of the Swedish crown when it set off on its maiden voyage in 1628.  Stockholm’s subway system is truly one of a kind. One hundred stations, each with unique art on its platform walls or waiting hall. Book a guided tour of some of he most spectacular stations with a local guide. Interested in photography? Fotografiska in Stockholm is one of the world's largest museums and is located in an historical industrial building at the harbour.

Fly to Luleå Airport and on arrival, transfer to the tiny settlement of Arctic Retreat in Gunnarsbyn, overlooking the Råne River. Home to three traditional log cabins, a log timber restaurant, lounge cabin and sauna cabin, a stay at this forest wilderness is all about nature, local flora and fauna and a range of activities. Each cabin has its own hot-tub on the terrace. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day free to explore independently and perhaps take a wild swim in the river followed by a sauna or hot-tub session. Dinner is served in the log restaurant during the evening.

Today you will paddle a canoe with your guide and explore the quiet and peaceful places along the river. There are good chances of seeing local wildlife such as birds, moose, beaver and maybe even reindeer as you glide peacefully along. Your guide will help find beautiful scenery along the way in the amazing nature. Return to Arctic Retreat with the remainder of the day free, before dinner.

Today you will embark on a guided hike in the beautiful Taiga Forest surrounding Arctic Retreat. The journey will be tailored to your fitness and experience. The terrain is undulating, and you will see the deep forest as well as some great views - make sure you pack your camera. Return to Arctic Retreat to meet with local food and culture connoisseur, Eva Gunnare, from ‘Essence of Lapland’. Through stories, songs, and a variety of taste sensations, you will learn more about Swedish Lapland. You will learn how locals for centuries have used wild ingredients throughout the 8 seasons which exist in the Arctic regions. 

Today transfer to the world-famous Treehotel, located in the town of Harrads in northern Sweden. Here eight unique rooms can be found high in the treetops. Whether you choose to stay in the UFO, Mirrorcube, Cabin or perhaps the Dragonfly, you will enjoy a comfortable stay here. Beyond the obvious appeal of staying somewhere so unusual, the Treehotel offers activities such as hiking, horse riding, northern lights viewing and moose safaris. A menu inspired by local ingredients is served in a 40s-style guesthouse and special meals can also be arranged under the aurora or several meters up a tree.

Today visit a local Sami family in Flakaberg. Meet Lars, a great storyteller, who will tell you about Sami culture, his childhood and his life as a reindeer herder in the forestland of Swedish Lapland. Meet the friendly reindeer that wander the farm, try pot-boiled coffee by the campfire and tuck in to a tasty lunch. The tour also includes a visit to the Arctic Circle.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure plans.