Sweden

At the heart of Scandinavia, Sweden offers stunning landscapes and wonderful hospitality. It is a country of huge forests, mountain ranges, massive lakes and a long coastline. Why not take a city break to Sweden? Stockholm, the capital, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, sometimes known as the ‘venice of the north’ being spread over 14 islands with a long viking history.  Surrounding the city are over 30,000 islands and lush countryside. Gothenburg is Sweden’s second largest city and it’s main sea port surrounded by rocky coastlines and islands and being a vibrant University city. There are a host of medieval towns around Sweden, the ancient city of Malmo being of particular interest. Travel by water from Stockholm to Gothenburg on a fabulous cruise!

For food lovers, Sweden is a paradise! Local specialties include Kalix bleak roe, lobster, oysters, salmon, wild boar, deer and berries. The west coast is particularly high on the list for the gourmet explorer – smoked fish, wild mushrooms and local cheese are amongst the ingredients used here by world class chefs.

Natural history holidays here include visits to some of the 29 national parks with the island of Stora Karlso in Gotland being a haven for birdlife.  There are great walking trails and hikes around Sweden with the Sormland region being a great base.

Head to Northern Sweden to meet the Sami people of Lapland and explore the land of the Midnight sun from the end of May to mid June or in winter you might see the Northern Lights. The best place to head in Sweden to see this is high above the Arctic Circle at Kiruna, from where you can visit and stay in the Ice Hotel. 17km east of Kiruna and 200km north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland is the tiny village of Jukkasjarvi.  The Icehotel is built by the side of a river during November where it stays through the winter until it melts back into the river in Spring.  Another unique place to stay in Arctic Sweden is the Tree Hotel at Harads near Lulea, see details on the Polar Express itinerary, but this can be tailored into a holiday to suit you.

One of the best places in Europe to see the Northern Lights is Abisko which is on a cross country skiing trail.

There are plenty of winter activities available in Swedish Lapland including husky dog sledding, snowmobiles, meet the Sami reindeer herders, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, sleigh rides, northern lights and many more – ask me for a full list and to tailor make a winter holiday or honeymoon to Arctic Sweden.