The Land of the Midnight Sun

Sweden is the largest Scandinavian state, with a population of 9.3 million.  It has not involved itself in any wars for 200 years and has a standard of living and life expectancy amongst the highest in the world.  The capital, Stockholm, lies in the Svealand province, and is built on 14 islands, connected by 50 bridges; learn about Sweden’s Viking heritage at the Museum of National Antiquities, visit the Royal Palace or stroll around the open air museum at Skansen.  Gothenburg, the 2nd largest city, is in the southern province of Gotaland; it has a 17th century city centre and is full of parks, gardens and museums.  The northern province, Norrland, is a hiker’s paradise, being replete with mountains, mighty rivers and huge forests; it includes Lapland, where, of course, Santa Claus hangs out with his famous reindeers!

Why Go?
In June and July, the ‘nights’ are no more than protracted periods of twilight, giving you endless daylight in which to enjoy the scenic splendours of the country.  Experience a progressive, tolerant society. The combination of majestic, rugged terrain and sophisticated cities make Sweden a fascinating destination.

When to Go?
Swedish summers run from May to early September; the rest of the year will probably feature snow, in particularly large quantities in Norrland. Skiing would seem a good option, but remember how short the days are in winter and plan accordingly.  Annual events include Swedish National Day in May: celebrated in Skansen, Stockholm, it features national dance, food and costumes. On Archipelago Boat Day in June, a flotilla of old steam-ships sails out of Stockholm.

How to get there?
Sweden offers the air traveller a convenient range of airports, according to your budget.  Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) and Gothenburg Landwetter Airport (GOT) serve most major European destinations. For those travelling with Low Cost Carriers, such as Ryanair, Wizz Air and German Wings, you will fly into Stockholm Skavsta (NYO) or Gothenburg City (GSE).  For destinations in southern Sweden, you can fly into neighbouring Denmark, where Copenhagen Kastrup Airport (CPH) is linked by railway-bridge to Malmo.

Must see
Visit The Kingdom of Crystal, an area in Smaland that’s home to some of the most prestigious glassmakers in the world. Gaze in awe at the Northern Lights at midwinter in Lapland. In Norrland, visit the Ice Hotel at Jukkasjarvi, but choose your time carefully as it disappears in the summer!  In Svealand province, check out the UNESCO World Heritage Bronze Age rock-carvings and the Bronze Age reconstructed farm at Vitlycke.  Also in Svealand, take a theatrical tour of Brebro’s renaissance castle or head for Fulufjall National Park, where you’ll see Sweden’s largest waterfall at Nyupescar.