It is winter in Sweden and the official 'cosy season' is full on. Swedish winter also means short days. In fact, in the northernmost parts of the country, the sun doesn't rise above the horizon for about a month. But the Polar Night, as this natural phenomenon is called, doesn't mean it's pitch-dark. The snow wraps the Arctic landscape in a sparkling white blanket. And at night, the sky is lit up by the Northern Lights.  

A few degrees below zero means excellent conditions for snowy outdoor activities  -  downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, ice skating over a frozen lake, gliding through the forest on a dog sled, or a more adrenaline-fueled snowmobile tour. Here's six winter related news from Sweden.

• Is the world's cleanest snowmobile in Swedish Lapland?
• Swedish Lapland – the world's best place to see the Northern Lights?
• The longest cross-country ski race in the world - A cool winter spectacle with tradition
• Record high interest in international sustainability conference on tourism in Stockholm, Sweden
• Sweden at the forefront of sustainable tourism

Is the world's cleanest snowmobile in Swedish Lapland?  

On February 18th, at the iconic Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi in northern Sweden, the Swedish startup company Vidde Mobility launched Alfa, the company's pre-series electric snowmobile. Alfa is said to be the world's cleanest snowmobile, in regard to both environmental sustainability and maximised product life span. The vehicle is designed in collaboration with the renowned Italian design house Pininfarina, globally recognised for iconic cars such as the Ferrari Testarossa.In Sweden's Arctic destination alone, (and almost a quarter of Sweden's total area) there were 85 855 registered snowmobiles in 2022, about 25% of Sweden's registered 350 360 snowmobiles.

Fun fact: The village of Arjeplog has the highest density with 65 scooters per 100 inhabitants.

Not only is it more sustainable, but to silently drive through the wilderness, really enhance the experience. The destination management organization of Sweden's Arctic region, Swedish Lapland Visitors Board, welcomes the launch of Vidde's electrical snowmobile with positive enthusiasm.

 “Our region is very vast. Motor driven vehicles are more or less a must to get around. At wintertime a lot of people use snowmobiles for both personal and professional purposes. It's also a popular tourist attraction to get out and experience our stunning nature,” said Annika Fredriksson, CEO for Swedish Lapland Visitors Board. ”If we can turn a number of these snowmobiles into electrified versions it would have a positive impact on nature and wildlife, both for CO2 emissions and for sound disturbance. This is very hopeful and will play its part of reaching our sustainability goals for 2030, as well as our challenging vision to be the Arctic's most responsible destination.”

The initial carbon footprint of the Alfa snowmobile is less than 100g CO2/km in comparison to a conventional snowmobile that emits approximately 550g CO2/km. Put in perspective a car with a conventional gasoline engine emits close to 565g CO2/km and an electric car 322g CO2/km.

Vidde and Pininfarina collaborate to create an environmentally sustainable snowmobile that, beyond being electric, is designed to maximize the product lifetime, a circular standpoint. The two companies are also working with the circular transition team within electromobility at RISE, Research Institute of Sweden. 

“As agreed at COP 28, we all need to transition into fossil free transportation. This obviously also includes snowmobiles. Fossil free isn't just about direct use. To take our responsibility we need to see to the total footprint of the product. From raw materials, to production, through use and all the way to the end of life. This is what we are working on and we are carefully choosing partners and components to share our vision and work together with us in order to move towards a fossil-free transportation industry, “said Vidde's CEO Christian Lystrup.

The new vehicle will be put into production and ready to start shipping at the later stage of 2024 expecting to expand production moving towards 2025. The first units are already signed for by the testing partners but there are still many opportunities to sign up and pre-book a Vidde snowmobile.

The iconic Icehotel hosted the launch, a hotel that is circular in its true meaning, by melting back into the river come spring, and resurfacing next season as new ice blocks are harvested from the Torne river. Icehotel generates attraction year after year with new artistically sculptured rooms and the fascinating circular thought for a hotel.

Situated 200 km north of the arctic circle, the hotel has all the challenges that the machines need to handle. Cold, sometimes harsh climate, multiple users, as well as a variety of prior knowledge and experience of riding a snowmobile, is all part of the future every day of the product.

Press contact at Vidde Mobility: Christian Lystrup, CEO & co-founder, christian@viddemobility.com 

Swedish Lapland – the world's best place to see the Northern Lights?

A Spectacular Haven for Northern Lights Enthusiasts
Nestled within the Arctic Circle, Sweden and, in particular, Swedish Lapland, stand out as one of the premier destinations in the world for witnessing the mesmerizing phenomenon of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This captivating natural spectacle is a breathtaking dance of vibrant colors that illuminates the night sky, creating an unforgettable experience for those fortunate enough to witness it.

Here are some compelling reasons why Sweden and Swedish Lapland are among the best places globally to witness the Northern Lights:

1. Optimal Geographic Location: Situated in the high latitudes, Swedish Lapland's geographical location is ideal for Northern Lights viewing. The region's proximity to the magnetic pole increases the frequency and intensity of auroral displays, making it a hotspot for aurora enthusiasts.
2. Clear Skies and Low Light Pollution: Swedish Lapland boasts vast, sparsely populated areas with minimal light pollution. Combined with the region's clear skies, visitors have an excellent chance of enjoying vivid and undisturbed displays of the Northern Lights.
3. Accessible Viewing Locations: Sweden's well-developed infrastructure makes it easy for travelers to access remote areas in Swedish Lapland. Popular destinations like Abisko and Kiruna offer comfortable accommodations and guided tours, ensuring that visitors can easily reach prime Northern Lights viewing locations.
4. Winter Wonderland Setting: Beyond the celestial light show, Swedish Lapland's winter landscapes add to the experience. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and pristine forests, creating a magical atmosphere that complements the Northern Lights' splendor.
5. Extended Viewing Season: While the Northern Lights are generally visible during the winter months, Swedish Lapland offers a more extended viewing season compared to many other locations. The season typically runs from September to March, providing ample opportunities for travelers to plan their visit and increase their chances of witnessing the auroras.
6. Aurora-friendly Activities: In addition to Northern Lights viewing, Swedish Lapland offers a variety of winter activities, such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice hotels, allowing visitors to make the most of their Arctic adventure.

Top 4 places to see the Northern Lights in Sweden
For the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, you should visit the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park. A chairlift takes you up to the observation tower and the station's Northern Lights exhibition, café and souvenir shop. Abisko National Park is 100 kilometres west of Kiruna, with daily shuttle transfers and accommodation offered at the STF Abisko Tourist Station. There are no guarantees, but being surrounded by mountains, Abisko is known for its clear skies and has become one of the most popular spots for visitors hoping to tick this must-see off their bucket lists. Read more here: swedishlapland.com/abisko-worlds-best-place-for-northern-lights

Kiruna
Kiruna is the country's northernmost city and the perfect base for exploring Sweden's great white north whether you want to see the Aurora Borealis by car, snowshoe, snowmobile, dogsled or skis. From Stockholm, you can either take a scenic 12-hour train ride or a 90-minute flight. 

Jukkasjärvi
If you're looking for the quintessential northern Swedish experience, go to the charming village of Jukkasjärvi. Located only 20 minutes by car from Kiruna, Jukkasjärvi is home to some 550 inhabitants and the world-famous Icehotel. A visit to the Icehotel, the first in the world, is an incredible experience. If combining your stay with one of their Northern Lights Safaris turns any trip into the holiday of a lifetime.

Porjus
Another tiny northern village, Porjus, with merely 400 inhabitants, is a coveted spot for viewing the Northern Lights in Sweden. 60 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, Porjus lies in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Laponia on the edge of a beautiful lake. Away from the city lights, in the stillness of nature, you can rent a cabin and (fingers crossed) enjoy the dancing light show from your front porch, or try the Arctic indigenous life and stay in a traditional 'lavvu' glamping tent at Sápmi Nature Camp just north of Porjus. There are buses and trains to Porjus from major cities in the north such as Kiruna, Luleå and Gällivare.

In addition to the ones above, see a complete list of 10 cool accomodations to see the northern lights. 

For more info: visitsweden.com/swedish-lapland/abisko-and-northern-lights and press photos.

The longest cross-country ski race in the world - A cool winter spectacle with tradition

The Vasarace in Dalarna, also known as the Vasaloppet, has its origins in a historical event. The legend states that the race is intended to honor the memory of Gustav Eriksson Vasa, a Swede who led a rebellion against Danish occupation in 1521. As a symbol of resilience, the Vasaloppet is meant to commemorate Vasa's historic escape through the forests. The first official Vasaloppet took place in 1922 and has since evolved into a significant annual skiing event that attracts athletes and spectators from around the world.

Friday February 24 was the start of the winter week of the legendary Vasarace, consisting of various cross-country skiing races over ten days, culminating in the classic Vasaloppet on the first Sunday in March. All races take place in the Vasarace Arena, along the picturesque 90 km route between Sälen and the famous finish line in Mora.

The first race on the first Friday is Vasrace 30 from Oxberg to Mora. On Saturday, the Tjejvasan (women's vasa) will be held on the same route as Vasarace 30. The Öppet Spår on Sunday starts in Sälen and is run in classic style. On Sundays there is also the Ungdomsvasan (Youth Vasa) for young people up to the age of 16, which starts in Eldris and Hökberg.

Öppet Spår Monday offers several options: The race is held in free style, which means that both classic and skating styles can be chosen. From 2024, it will also be possible to choose the distance: Öppet Spår Montag 90 starts in Sälen, Öppet Spår Montagy 45 at the Evertsberg checkpoint and Öppet Spår Montag 30 at the Oxberg checkpoint. On Tuesday it is then the turn of Vasarace 45, which starts in Oxberg and runs along Lake Oxberg before joining up with the Vasarace route.

Relay vasan is held on Friday and consists of five sections divided between relay skiers from Sälen to Mora. Nattvasan 90, Nattvasan 45 and Nattvasan 30 start on the same night. Skating style is allowed and you can participate individually or in pairs. Saturday then sees the beginner's Vasalauf 10 race from Eldris to the finish, where participants are encouraged to wear vintage equipment if they wish. The week ends with the biggest cross-country race in the world, the big Vasarace, which attracts 15,800 participants and runs along the so-called main artery of Swedish skiing!

But the Vasarace winter week is not just about skiing. There is much more to experience! For example, a visit to the finish area in Mora, which attracts around 200,000 visitors every winter. Or the Vasalauf opening ceremony in the Mora church, which has been traditionally held since 1922 and includes a celebrity speaker and the crowning of the Kranskulla of the year.

Vasaloppstrippeln - Complete the Vasarace in one year with skiing, cycling and running

The Vasaloppstrippeln, the Vasarace trilogy, is a challenge in which participants complete three Vasalauf races within a calendar year. In the footsteps of the ancestors, 90, 45 or 30 kilometres of skiing, cycling and running.

Website: vasaloppet.se 

Press photos: vasaloppet/images 

Dalarna offers the best conditions for an eventful holiday. The multifaceted landscape is ideal for hiking, cycling and skiing. In addition, sights such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site Falun and fascinating artists' houses offer insights into culture and history. The typical souvenir from Dalarna is a horse made of wood, either bought or painted.

More information about the Dalarna region: visitsweden.com

More information about cross-country skiing in Sweden: visitsweden.com

Record high interest in international sustainability conference on tourism in Stockholm, Sweden

Now the eyes of the world are directed once again towards Sweden's sustainable development. Over 200 persons from 35 countries have registered in for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council's (GSTC) global conference on sustainable tourism, arranged in Stockholm April 23-26. According to the organizer, there has been a record number in a record short time, which testifies to an extra-large interest in GSTC and Sweden's sustainable development work in tourism.

Sweden's tourism industry is at the absolute forefront of sustainability development and has been widely praised internationally for this over the years. The Swedish tourism industry has already undergone and is undergoing a far-reaching green transition, which is of global interest.

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is an annual and global sustainability conference for the tourism industry with focus on how companies, destinations or regions can apply sustainability practices to their operations.  

During the conference, the 400 participants will have an extensive range of panel discussions to choose from: on how businesses can adapt to act climate- and environmentally smart, good examples of destinations engaging visitors, residents, and businesses in the local community and what is required to develop long-term sustainability.  

This time, GSTC's Global Conference is being arranged at the Royal Djurgården in Stockholm, where Visit Sweden and the Agency for Growth stand as hosts in collaboration with the Royal Djurgården's Intressenter, who have long worked according to GSTC's Criteria, the global standards for sustainable tourism and travel.

The distinguished speakers include Sweden's former Prime Minister, Fredrik Reinfeldt, who currently serves as the Chairman of the Board for Visita, the Swedish hospitality industry's employer organization. The program also features esteemed speakers from a variety of countries including Sweden, Spain, Thailand, Finland, and Fiji. Zanzibar's Principal Secretary from the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage will also be speaking.

Find the full list of speakers, the entire program and register for the GSTC2024 Conference.

Sweden at the forefront of sustainable tourism

Internationally speaking, Sweden's sustainable stance is also of interest in tourism and travel. Sweden has been internationally praised and received plenty of attention over the years.

• For more than a decade, Sweden has been among the top ten in the global Environmental Performance Index from Columbia University and Yale University for its exceptionally clean air and clean water and low emissions.
  
  
• Sweden is a country that is associated with accessible nature experiences and is ranked as the most sustainable destination in the world, two years in a row according to the international research company Euromonitor International's Sustainability Travel Index.
  
  
• Northern Sweden has become an arena for sustainable development and the spirit of the future with new, innovative companies and sustainability initiatives. Here, the tourism industry plays a significant role in site development in order to create long-term favorable conditions for a growing and attractive society. Not only for visitors, but also to attract new labor and knowledge to the region. 

• Already in 2002, Swedish Nature's Best was launched, which became one of the first quality labels for ecotourism in the world. Nature's Best gained GSTC-Recongized Status for their standard last year.
  
  
• Gothenburg has been named the world's most sustainable destination for the seventh year in a row by the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDSI).
  
  
• Stockholm is an international forerunner for global environmental and climate initiatives. Stockholm has been named the world's most sustainable city in 2022 according to the economics and sustainability magazine Corporate Knights and is one of Europe's climate-smartest cities according to a study by The Economist Intelligence Unit.
  
  
• As an important part of Stockholm, the Royal Djurgården welcomes over 15 million visitors every year. Djurgården works broadly for long-term sustainability development and in September of this year, Royal Djurgården was awarded GSTC's Green Destination Platinum Award for its structured work with sustainability, as one of two major city destinations in the world.
• The world's first and second fully environmentally certified airlines were Swedish: Malmö Aviation, which today is Braathens Regional Airlines (BRA) and the Swedish charter airline TUIfly Nordic. 

• During the early 2000s, the Swedish organization ECPAT and Swedish tour operators were international pioneers in countering the sexual exploitation of children and child sex tourism, where Swedish travel companies, including TUI (then called Fritidsresor) were the first in the world to introduce a concrete, international code of conduct for hotels with action plans and training of all employees. 

• The world's first airline that offered all its air travelers biofuel as an option to reduce emissions was Swedish: Braathens Regional Airlines (BRA). 

• Train travel in Sweden is only made with electricity from renewable sources. 

• In Sweden, development for the production of commercial electric aircraft, Heart Aerospace, was founded in 2018.
• The Swedish government has set ambitious goals for sustainability, including going fossil-free by 2045 and 100 percent renewable energy. As the first airport group in the world, state-owned Swedavia Airports, reached 0 percent fossil carbon emissions in their own operations already in 2020.

 Download photo View over Royal Djurgården, Stockholm. 

Welcome to Sweden, a destination of a different nature.