SOMETIMES you just want to get away from it all, and retreat to the rustic yet refined. Where better to reflect on the year past or ahead than shacked up in a wintry lodge nestled in the majesty of Sweden, the land of the midnight sun? While its major cities like Stockholm, Malmö and Gothenburg are unique in their own right, the country is also home to one of Europe’s remaining wildernesses.

The Swedish Lapland is an experience of its own, especially in winter. The traditional heartland of the indigenous Sami people, the Lapland is characterised by endless forests of pine and spruce, gushing rivers and peaceful lakeside villages nestled amongst the hills. This vast and sparsely populated region provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience to take in Sweden’s raw nature first hand.

Another draw for tourists? The elusive Aurora Borealis, which can be spotted in many parts of the wilderness. Those planning a wild Scandinavian adventure in the Swedish Lapland can seek shelter in the region’s cosy and beautiful cabins and lodges, which provides a base as they explore the magical province.

Here, the best luxury winter lodges in the Swedish Lapland.

01: Loggers Lodge

Far removed from any town a 90-minute drive from the airport of Luleå is Loggers Lodge, a private eco-luxury wilderness lodge surrounded by a boreal forest in the Swedish Lapland. Its warm, ochre-coloured exterior provides a cosy sanctuary for those exploring the snow-covered landscapes of Sweden in winter.

As there are barely any surrounding lights, you can marvel at the Northern Lights from a nearby clearing in the woods. Guests can choose to visit the Arctic Circle, delve into the Sami culture (and even have lunch with a reindeer herder), go on a snowmobile safari or Nordic ski tour.

(RELATED: Fascinated? Book out this glass cabin in Finland where you can watch the Aurora Borealis while on your bed.)

02: Arctic Retreat

Tucked away in a magical, secluded place in the forest is the Arctic Retreat, a luxury lodge surrounded by Swedish Lapland nature. The lodge aims to provide a high level of personal service throughout guests’ stay, from locally produced food and drinks, to hot tub, sauna and spa experiences on site and the presence of local hosts to ensure guests have everything they need.

The two traditional but luxurious log cabins are located on the edge of the Råne River, and sheltered by a scenic forest landscape in winter. The bigger cabin accommodates up to six guests, while the smaller cabin sleeps two or three people.

03: Brandon Lodge


The beautiful Brandon Lodge overlooks both the Bothnian Bay and the Baltic Sea, making this secluded and modern lodge the perfect base for exploring islands in the Lulea archipelago. Choose to stay in one of the 15 cabins that have been tastefully renovated with en suite bathrooms, a living area, and a covered porch to relax in while gazing at the Northern Lights.

The cosy lodge guarantees a true arctic experience in the heart of the Swedish Lapland, and is uniquely positioned to offer hovercraft tours on ice or ice fishing trips accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will explain traditional hunting ways.

04: Tree Hotel Sweden

There’s no better place to experience the Aurora Borealis than in a luxury treehouse cabin. Tree Hotel Sweden is located in the little town of Harads, about 70 minutes from the airport of Lulea, in the Swedish Lapland.

The Tree Hotel is made up from seven different tree houses, attracting guests from all corners of the globe — including the Mirrorcube, the Bird’s Nest, the Blue Cone, the rectangular-shaped Cabin, and the most recent addition, the 7th Room. The latter is the largest house and is the only tree house which comes with a shower. It is the highest of them all and has a rope platform and windows from which to watch the elusive Northern Lights. Tree Hotel Sweden also boasts two saunas and a hot tub to relax in after a long day.

05: Aurora Lodge Escape

The Aurora Escape lodge in the far north of the Swedish Lapland makes the perfect base inside the Arctic Circle. Due to its remote location, the lodge is an ideal place for Aurora watching, as you’d have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights during your stay — thus its name.

Each of the eight private en-suite rooms at Aurora Lodge Escape comes with a view of the river Kalix. Guests also can take part in the activities here, from husky sledding to guided snowshoeing, or a snowmobile and ice fishing safari. Otherwise, simply enjoy the beautiful landscape of its surrounding lakes and forests.

This article was first published on LifestyleAsia.com.
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