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Late Season in Swedish Lapland: Why the Arctic Still Shines in April

There’s a common misconception when it comes to Arctic adventures – that the magic of Swedish Lapland ends when winter is over. But let us assure you – heading north as the season turns to spring can be extraordinary.

This April, we went on a late season trip to Sweden. What we experienced was nothing short of spectacular, crisp blue skies, perfect snowy landscapes and plenty of encounters with local culture, nature and warmth that felt very Swedish.

A group of people in Swedish Lapland stood on a frozen lake with blue sky above.

Ice Fishing at Brändön Lodge on the Bay of Bothnia

Day 1: Brändön Lodge, Where Coast Meets Calm in Swedish Lapland

Touching down in Luleå, we were greeted by the warm hospitality of the Brändön Lodge team. Set next to the frozen Bay of Bothnia, this peaceful location surrounded by forest and sea was the perfect introduction to the Arctic lifestyle.

Dinner by the fire, stories under the stars and cosy cabins facing the frozen sea made us forget the chilly air – April up north isn’t a goodbye to winter, it’s just a celebration of its beauty.

A sign post in Swedish Lapland showing the distance to other locations such as Amsterdam, Oslo, Tokyo and London. Each part of the sign faces the way of the location.

Brändön Lodge

Day 2: Skills, Suspension and Spas

After a good breakfast, we started the day with wilderness skills at Brändön, a reminder that Arctic life is still deeply connected to nature, even in these modern times we live in now. From fire building to navigating snowy paths, we really embraced ancient ways of surviving and thriving.

Then came a change of pace. First stop, the iconic Treehotel, where we wandered among treetop rooms shaped like UFOs and mirrored cubes, followed by lunch in the Guesthouse that started it all.

A short journey brought us to Arctic Bath, a riverside spa that looks like it could have been from a dream. Some of us even braved the cold plunge into the open pool! The perfect reminder that spring in Swedish Lapland can still be a frosty one!

Our evening wrapped up with a snowmobile safari at Hide and See, led by Mikael Suorra, whose Sámi heritage and deep respect for nature was felt in every moment.

Arctic Bath in Swedish Lapland with a circle pool in the middle of a decked area.

Arctic Bath

Day 3: Aurora Safari Camp and Arctic Retreat, the Heart and Soul of Swedish Lapland

Waking up in the comfort of Aurora Safari Camp or Arctic Retreat, we felt ready for the day ahead. After a snowshoe hike and outdoor lunch in the woods, we made our way to Kaatis Reindeer in Överkalix. There, the reindeer grazed as we listened to Sámi legends by the fire.

April in Lapland is quiet, but not empty. It’s a small piece of what winter leaves behind, a soft, golden light that reflects on snowy branches.

The Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland in the background of trees and a log cabin hut.

Arctic Retreat

Day 4: Ice, Spirits and Senses

Our final full day was packed with unforgettable moments. First was the Polar Explorer Icebreaker in the Arctic sea – available in our Brändön Lodge trip. Floating in survival suits in the icy water was a surreal highlight (and yes, we earned our swim certificates!)

Our final night in Luleå’s Clarion Hotel Sense offered modern comfort and a final taste of city life in Swedish Lapland. This was the perfect contrast to the wild peace we had just left behind.

Swedish Lapland in Late Season? Why Not

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth visiting Swedish Lapland after peak winter, let this be your sign, absolutely, yes.

During the late season, the light lasts longer, the air is softer and the experiences feel even more personal. You might not have the deepest snow, but you’ll still have plenty of chances to spot the Northern Lights.

A group of people trekking through trees in Swedish Lapland.

Brändön Lodge

Swedish Lapland in April isn’t the end of winter, it’s winter’s encore. And it’s spectacular!

Want to plan your own late season adventure? Explore our experiences here.

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