City Guide for: Abisko, Sweden

Abisko, Sweden Guide

Abisko, nestled in the heart of Swedish Lapland, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This small village, situated on the shores of Lake Torneträsk and surrounded by towering mountains, offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, explore pristine wilderness, and experience the unique Sami culture. Its remote location and minimal light pollution make it one of the best places in the world to observe the Aurora Borealis. Beyond the Northern Lights, Abisko boasts stunning landscapes perfect for hiking, skiing, and dog sledding. Abisko National Park, a protected area of breathtaking beauty, is easily accessible and offers trails for all skill levels. Whether you're seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, Abisko provides an unforgettable Arctic experience.

Food & Cuisine

Abisko's culinary scene is heavily influenced by its Arctic location and Sami traditions. Expect to find dishes featuring reindeer, elk, and locally caught fish like Arctic char. Many restaurants offer traditional Sami cuisine, providing a unique cultural experience. The restaurant at Abisko Turiststation STF Abisko Mountain Station is a popular choice, offering both traditional Swedish and international dishes with stunning views. While Abisko doesn't have large markets, the local shops offer a selection of regional specialties and ingredients for those who prefer to cook their own meals. Look for cloudberry jam, dried reindeer meat, and other local delicacies.

Nightlife

Abisko's nightlife is more focused on experiencing the natural wonders than traditional bars and clubs. The primary evening activity is Northern Lights viewing, often involving guided tours or independent exploration. The Abisko Sky Station, located atop Mount Nuolja, offers a unique experience with its observation tower and restaurant, providing panoramic views of the night sky. While there aren't many late-night venues, the atmosphere is vibrant with aurora hunters and nature lovers sharing stories and experiences. The focus is on the celestial spectacle rather than bustling nightlife.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Abisko depends on your primary interest. For Northern Lights viewing, the winter months (December to March) offer the darkest skies and the highest probability of seeing the aurora. For hiking and outdoor activities, the summer months (June to August) provide pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours. September and October offer a chance to see the autumn colors and potentially catch the early Northern Lights.

Transportation

Abisko is primarily accessible by train and bus. The main train station is Abisko Turiststation, conveniently located near the Abisko Turiststation STF Abisko Mountain Station. Buses also connect Abisko with nearby towns like Kiruna and Narvik. Within Abisko itself, walking is the most common and convenient way to get around due to its small size. There is no tram or subway/metro system.

Airport

The closest airport to Abisko is Kiruna Airport (KRN), located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) away. From Kiruna Airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Kiruna train station and then take a train to Abisko. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to Abisko, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Attractions

Abisko National Park

Abisko National Park Abisko National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, with mountains, lakes, and the famous Lapporten mountain pass. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and Northern Lights viewing in this pristine wilderness. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a range of activities throughout the year.

Aurora Sky Station

Aurora Sky Station The Aurora Sky Station offers a unique opportunity to witness the Northern Lights in Abisko. Visitors can take a chairlift up to the station and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while waiting for the auroras to appear.

Kungsleden Trail

Kungsleden Trail The Kungsleden Trail is a famous long-distance hiking route that passes through Abisko National Park. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Swedish Lapland wilderness, including mountains, lakes, and forests.

Abisko Turiststation

Abisko Turiststation Abisko Turiststation is a popular starting point for outdoor adventures in the region. Visitors can stay in cozy cabins, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in guided tours and activities such as dog sledding and snowshoeing.

Lapporten

Lapporten Lapporten, or the Lapponian Gate, is a distinctive U-shaped valley that is a popular hiking destination in Abisko. The views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness are breathtaking, making it a must-see for nature lovers.

Abisko Canyon

Abisko Canyon Abisko Canyon is a dramatic gorge carved by the Abiskojokk River. Visitors can hike along the canyon rim for stunning views of the rushing waters below, or explore the surrounding wilderness on foot or by boat.

Alesjaure Mountain Hut

Alesjaure Mountain Hut The Alesjaure Mountain Hut is a popular resting spot for hikers on the Kungsleden Trail. Visitors can enjoy a warm meal, a cozy bed, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains before continuing their trek through the Swedish wilderness.

Torneträsk Lake

Torneträsk Lake Torneträsk Lake is a picturesque spot for fishing, boating, and swimming in the summer months. The crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Njulla Mountain

Njulla Mountain Njulla Mountain is a popular hiking destination in Abisko National Park. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the summit, including the nearby Torneträsk Lake and Lapporten mountain gate.

Abiskojaure Lake

Abiskojaure Lake Abiskojaure Lake is a tranquil spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking in the heart of Abisko National Park. Visitors can relax on the shores of the lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Swedish Lapland wilderness.

Lapland Visitor Center

Lapland Visitor Center The Lapland Visitor Center is a great starting point for exploring Abisko National Park. Visitors can learn about the region's flora, fauna, and geology, as well as pick up maps and information about hiking trails and other outdoor activities.

Lapporten Mountain

Lapporten Mountain Lapporten, also known as Tjuonavagge, is a distinctive U-shaped valley and iconic landmark in Swedish Lapland. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness. The valley was carved by glaciers during the ice age, leaving behind a dramatic and unforgettable landscape. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, camping, and simply soaking in the stunning natural beauty of the Arctic.

Day Trips

Riksgränsen

Riksgränsen, located right on the border between Sweden and Norway, is famous for its midnight sun skiing in late spring. Even outside of the ski season, it's a scenic area with hiking trails and opportunities to experience the unique Arctic environment.

Travel Time

1 hour by car

Activities
  • Hiking in the mountains
  • Midnight sun skiing (late spring)
  • Visit the border between Sweden and Norway
  • Enjoy the Arctic scenery

Narvik

Narvik, a Norwegian port town, boasts a dramatic history and stunning fjord scenery. As a vital port for iron ore during World War II, Narvik played a significant role in the conflict. Today, you can explore its war history, enjoy panoramic views from the Narvikfjellet mountain (via cable car), and experience the beauty of the Ofotfjord.

Travel Time

1 hour 15 minutes by car

Activities
  • Visit the Narvik War Museum
  • Ride the Narvikfjellet cable car for panoramic views
  • Explore the Ofotfjord by boat
  • Hiking in the surrounding mountains

Torneträsk Lake

Lake Torneträsk, one of Sweden's largest and deepest lakes, offers breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor adventures. The lake is surrounded by mountains and forests, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the Arctic wilderness. In winter, it's a prime location for ice fishing and snowmobiling.

Travel Time

Around Abisko, easily accessible

Activities
  • Hiking along the lake shore
  • Fishing (permit required)
  • Photography of the surrounding landscapes
  • Ice fishing and snowmobiling in winter

Kiruna

Kiruna, the northernmost town in Sweden, offers a unique blend of Sami culture, mining history, and stunning Arctic landscapes. Witness the ongoing relocation of the town due to mining activities, explore the iconic Kiruna Church, and delve into the region's rich industrial heritage. It's a fascinating glimpse into a town undergoing dramatic change in the heart of Lapland.

Travel Time

1 hour 15 minutes by car

Activities
  • Visit Kiruna Church
  • Explore the LKAB iron ore mine (tours available)
  • Learn about Sami culture at the Nutti Sámi Siida
  • See the relocation of the town

Björkliden

Björkliden is a mountain resort known for its stunning views of Lapporten (the "Lapland Gate"), a distinctive U-shaped valley. It's a great place for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. Even if you're not hitting the slopes, the scenery alone is worth the trip.

Travel Time

30 minutes by car

Activities
  • Hiking to Lapporten viewpoint
  • Skiing and snowboarding (winter)
  • Photography of the Lapporten valley
  • Enjoying the mountain scenery