10 Tips: Åre, Sweden

1. Festivals: Swedes love the changing seasons and there’s no better place to celebrate the autumn equinox than in Åre. Locals crowd the market selling everything from berries to reindeer pelts. Do yourself a favor and buy a chanterelle sandwich with cloudberries while trying on Nordic slippers. 

2. Bring a Jacket: Unsurprisingly, the weather in Northern Sweden can be quite chilly. Winters are long, summers are short and when (if) you see the sun… celebrate. 

3. Go Shopping: Celebrated outdoor brands Peak Performance, Elevenate, and Houdini originated in the small northern village. You’ll be sure to see the latest products and deals in their origin stores. 

4. Take a Hike: There are numerous hiking trails, from 1 hour to 3 days, in the surrounding areas. The Arctic tundra is incredibly beautiful, just be sure to pack a raincoat (or go shopping for one) as the weather is always changing. 

5. Ride a Bike: Fly down jumps and dirt tracks in Åre bike park. It is ranked second in the world after Whistler for downhill biking. 

6. Northern Lights: It’s no surprise that a destination just south of the arctic circle would see the northern lights. Go during the winter months to see the best natural light show! 

7. Eat Local: Surprisingly, one of the worlds best restaurants, Favikken, lies just 20 minutes outside of Åre. Go there to enjoy some tasty (slightly bizarre) delicacies inspired by the local area. Who would have known rare mountain moss is so tasty? If that’s out of your price range, grab some reindeer pizza at the local’s favorite Wersen’s. 

8. Stay up Late: During the wintertime, the nightlife is sure to be busy. Put your ski boots up and grab a beer at one of Åre’s numerous after-ski bars, then make your way to a three-story club located right at the base of the mountain. New Years is a popular time, but Mid-February always offers the best parties. 

9. Spa Day: Indulge yourself for a weekend retreat at Copperhill Spa Hotel, one of Sweden’s premier spas. They offer Swedish massage and a range of saunas and pools. 

10. Travel Time: Ostersund airport is only a short one-hour drive from downtown Åre. Bus transfers run all through winter and you can even grab a direct flight to England!