One of the most memorable trips I’ve ever taken was my solo adventure to Abisko, Swedish Lapland, in December 2019. Memorable because this is how I began my tradition of taking extreme winter trips to the North every year. Over three magical days, I chased the Northern Lights, enjoyed thrilling dog sledge rides, trekked through snow-covered landscapes on snowshoes, explored Kiruna’s stunning Ice Hotel, and unwound with saunas and fireside relaxation. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own incredible experience!
Getting to Abisko from Bergamo
I flew from Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport to Stockholm Arlanda Airport with Ryanair, which frequently offers affordable flights. From Stockholm, I took the Norrland night train to Abisko. Travelling by night train is not only easy, comfortable and inexpensive, but rail is also one of the greenest modes of travel, as stated on the official website.
If you opt for an internal flight with either SAS or Norwegian Airlines directly to Kiruna Airport, from Kiruna, you’ll need to arrange a convenient shuttle transfer to Abisko, which is approximately a 1-hour 15-minute journey. Transfers can be easily booked in advance through Abisko.net or Visit Abisko.
Accommodation in Abisko
I stayed at Abisko Mountain Lodge, a cosy and welcoming lodge perfect for solo travellers. It features simple yet comfortable rooms, a wonderful sauna, and a communal fireplace area ideal for relaxing and meeting fellow travellers.
Day 1: Northern Lights hunt
Abisko is famously one of the world’s best locations to witness the Northern Lights, thanks to its clear skies. I highly recommend the night-time Aurora Sky Station tour (bookable through Aurora Sky Station). After a short chairlift ride to the summit, I stood mesmerised as the sky erupted in vibrant shades of green and purple—a truly unforgettable moment.
Tip: Dress warmly with thermal layers, insulated gloves, a hat, and sturdy winter boots.
Day 2: Dog Sledging and Snowshoeing
The following day was dedicated entirely to outdoor adventures. Early in the morning, I embarked on my first three-hour dog sledge tour, organised by Abisko Dogsled. Sitting behind a team of energetic huskies through pristine snow was exhilarating, offering serene beauty and silence broken only by the dogs’ panting and the sledge’s gliding. Immediately after this experience, I decided I needed to learn how to guide a sledge myself, which is what led me to book my husky safari in Lapland.
In the afternoon, I rented snowshoes directly from the lodge and explored nearby forest trails. Snowshoeing is an easy, relaxing, and immersive activity that allows you to experience the surrounding nature at your own pace.
Day 3: Kiruna Ice Hotel
On my final day, I visited the famous Ice Hotel near Kiruna via an organised bus tour from Abisko. This unique hotel is rebuilt every year from ice and snow, with breathtaking artistic suites, an ice chapel, and an iconic Ice Bar. After exploring, I enjoyed a warm lunch in the nearby restaurant.
Sauna and fireside relaxation
After days spent outdoors in sub-zero temperatures, the lodge’s sauna and a cosy evening by the fireplace were the perfect way to unwind, sipping hot tea and exchanging travel stories.
Practical tips
- Book early: Flights, transfers, excursions, and accommodations should be arranged in advance, especially during peak Northern Lights season (November–March).
- Clothing: Dress in technical, thermal layers. December temperatures typically range between -10°C and -25°C.
- Photography: Bring a good camera for capturing the Northern Lights; a DSLR and tripod are ideal, though modern smartphones can also yield excellent results.
My solo journey to Abisko gifted me unforgettable experiences and magical moments. It’s a perfect destination for women travelling alone, offering both safety and warm local hospitality. I hope you, too, can soon discover the incredible magic of Swedish Lapland!
