Sweet on Sweden

THE past year has seen UK visitor numbers to #Sweden soar, a wealth of new campaigns, exciting new tourism products and the launch of three new flights from the UK.

Annual figures from Visit Sweden show that UK traveller bed nights hit a record number of 857,570 in 2016. With 600,170 UK traveller bed nights recorded in 2013, this represents a 43% increase in the space of just three years. Here are some exciting new experiences to try out.

New mountain biking trails in Småland Known as Sweden’s mountain biking mecca, Småland has much to offer all enthusiasts, from beginners through to professionals. Its Isaberg Mountain Resort offers 12 trails and pump tracks for all abilities, with a new, challenging technical trail featuring jumps and drops launching in 2018. Meanwhile, at Huskvarna, bikers can try out the very track used for the European championships, which contains climbs, lifts, and extreme uphill and downhill sections, all with a fabulous view over Lake Vättern. www.visitsmaland.se/en/experiences/nature-and-adventure/mtb

Stay in an Igloo at the Iglootel Lapland in Arjeplog The ultimate winter wonderland experience for many, the boutique igloo hotel Iglootel Lapland is now in its 5th incarnation and visitors double every season. Built completely from snow and ice, the Iglootel features an Ice Bar, two Event Igloos, a Fire Igloo, Lounge Igloo, outdoor area with heated hot tubs and a sauna, plus ten individually designed Sleeping Igloos for two to six guests. www.iglootel.de

Hang out with huskies on a Northern lights pack walk New for this season, Husky Home in Kiruna is offering visitors the chance to experience the Northern Lights in a completely different way. Run free with a husky dog pack on a nightly walk through the splendid scenery of their extensive land. Following the walk, bond further by giving the dogs a massage over Swedish fika in the farmhouse. www.huskyhome.se

New luxury hotel in Riksgränsen, famed for its midnight sun skiing Launching in March 2018, the Niehku Mountain Villa is likely to be northern Sweden’s newest mecca for ski enthusiasts. Located in Riksgränsen, known for its lengthy ski season, which allows for midnight sun skiing and incredible off-piste, the boutique hotel will offer just 14 luxurious rooms. The owners aim to create a home from home for nature and skiing devotees, who love creature comforts as much as they do the slopes. www.niehku.com

Houseboating in Swedish Lapland AquaStay Arctic is providing a unique way to access stunningly beautiful yet otherwise impenetrable areas of Swedish Lapland, by renting out houseboats along the Lule river, surrounding Jokkmokk. Absolute peace amongst a serene and beautiful natural environment. www.aquastay.se

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