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Kiruna Lapland Sweden

KIRUNA TOWN


Is there a place on earth to enjoy the magic of Christmas, the captivating Northern Lights, wonderful arctic landscapes, unique charm and culture other then Kiruna, Sweden?


As the winter settles in, my best friend and I decided to prepare for a life time experience, and discover the depth of the vast expanses of snow covered terrain of Kiruna, located in the far north of the country, within the province of Lapland.



A little history of this mystical town


Kiruna town was established in the late 19th century and is known primarily for its rich deposits of iron ore, which have been mined extensively since the early 1900s.

Kiruna serves as a cultural hub for the indigenous Sámi people, who have lived in the region for centuries.

The town is home to various cultural events and festivals that celebrate Sámi traditions, crafts, and music, providing a rich tapestry of experiences for travellers like us.



As the town continues to evolve, it faces challenges related to its mining activities, particularly the ongoing subsidence caused by the extraction of iron ore.


To address these issues, the local government initiated an ambitious relocation project, moving the town center to a new site to ensure the safety and sustainability of the community.


This project is has also been an opportunity to design a modern town that respects its historical roots while embracing future growth.


One of the most notable landmarks in Kiruna is the iconic Kiruna Church, a wooden structure built in the early 20th century, which is often regarded as one of Sweden's most beautiful churches.



KIRUNA ICE HOTEL


While we where travelling in Sweden, we had ecos from locals about the incredible Kiruna Ice Hotel, a remarkable and unique accommodation worth the detour!


This extraordinary hotel is renowned for its stunning architecture, which is entirely constructed from ice and snow, sourced from the nearby Torne River.


We went to the hotel and spent one evening exploring the beauty of the art. Here are some pictures of this wonderful hotel.



Of course, we would not miss the opportunity to sleep in a room where the ambient temperature was below 5 degrees Celsius, as this unique experience offering an atmosphere that is both calming and invigorating.


Visualize stepping into a room where the walls are decorated with frost patterns, the intricate works crafted by sculptors in the ice. A sofa, chairs, and a bed are all fashioned from ice.


The air feels different here, almost electric, as it fills our lungs with a refreshing chill that awakens our senses. The sound of our breath is amplified in the stillness, and the gentle crunch of frost underfoot adds a layer of excitement to the experience.


As we were invited to visit the hotel, we discovered a variety of designed rooms and suites, each embellished with beautiful ice sculptures and artistic lighting that create a surreal atmosphere.


We can participate in guided tours of the hotel, where they can learn about the construction process and the artistry involved in creating the stunning ice sculptures. Moreover, the Ice hotel boasts an ice bar, where patrons can sip on cocktails served in glasses made of ice, further enhancing the unique experience.



As we prepare for the night, we would layer ourselves in warm, cosy blankets, each one carefully selected for its ability to trap heat and provide comfort against the biting cold.


The feeling of snuggling into a warm cocoon, while the outside temperature so cold, creates a contrast that heightens our appreciation for warmth.


We would also enjoy the chance to have conversations about the marvels of winter, exchanging stories and laughter that resonate in the chilly air.


The experience of sleeping in such a temperature would undoubtedly lead to a deeper understanding of how our bodies adapt to extreme conditions. As we hardly drift off to sleep, we would marvel at the resilience of the human spirit and the joy of embracing nature in its most frigid form. The thought of waking up to a winter wonderland, made the experience all the more unforgettable.


The most amazing thing about this incredible hotel is that each year, the hotel is meticulously rebuilt from the ground up, as it melts during the warmer months, making every winter season a new artistic endeavour. We experienced a truly one-of-a-kind stay.


Overall, the Kiruna Ice Hotel is not just a place to stay; it is an unforgettable experience that combines art, nature, and adventure in one of the most beautiful and remote regions of Sweden.






THE SAMI PEOPLE


The Sami people, an indigenous group primarily inhabiting the northern regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and parts of Russia, have a rich cultural heritage and a deep connection to the land, particularly in areas such as Kiruna.


The Sami are known for their traditional livelihoods, which include reindeer herding, fishing, and crafts, all of which are deeply intertwined with their identity and way of life.


Kiruna, as one of the northernmost towns in Sweden, serves as a significant cultural and economic centre for the Sami community. In Kiruna, the Sami people maintain their unique traditions, languages, and customs, which have been passed down through generations.



The vibrant Sami festivals, often celebrated in Kiruna, showcase traditional clothing, known as gákti, and include activities such as joik, a form of traditional Sami singing that expresses deep emotions and connections to the natural world.


Moreover, the landscape surrounding Kiruna plays a crucial role in the Sami way of life. The seasonal migrations of reindeer across the tundra are a reflection of the Sami's sustainable practices and their profound respect for nature. However, the Sami people in Kiruna, like many indigenous groups, face challenges related to modern development, climate change, and the preservation of their rights and lands.


The ongoing mining activities in the region, particularly iron ore extraction, have raised concerns about environmental degradation and its impact on traditional Sami livelihoods.


Advocacy efforts by the Sami community aim to address these issues and ensure that their voices are heard in discussions about land use and resource management.


The Sami people of Kiruna represent a vibrant and resilient culture that is deeply connected to the land and its resources. Their traditions, struggles, and contributions to the region's identity are essential to understanding the broader narrative of indigenous peoples in the Arctic and the importance of cultural preservation in the face of modern challenges.

We had the honour to be welcomed by the Sami people and share days of exploration in the area in their company.


OUTDOOR ADVENTURES - HUSKY SLEDDING


Outdoor adventures abound, we immersed ourselves on the exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of adventure with the indigenous Sámi people.


As you embark on a dog sledding adventure in Kiruna, you will be greeted by a team of enthusiastic huskies, each with their own distinct personality and energy.



These highly trained dogs are not only incredibly strong and agile, but they also possess a remarkable instinct for navigating through the snowy terrain.

The experience typically begins with an introduction to the dogs and the sled, where guides provide essential training on how to handle the sled and communicate effectively with the team.

The journey itself takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes imaginable.



As you glide over the pristine snow, you will witness the serene beauty of the surrounding forests, frozen lakes, and the majestic mountains that define the region.


The crisp, fresh air invigorates your senses, and the rhythmic sound of the sled cutting through the snow creates a peaceful ambiance, allowing you to connect deeply with nature.


In addition to the thrill of racing through the snow, dog sledding in Kiruna also offers opportunities to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Sámi people, bound with the dogs, connect to nature. Many tours include stories and insights about the traditional practices of reindeer herding and the significance of dogsledding in Sámi culture, enriching your experience with a deeper understanding of the region's history and lifestyle.


Thank you dear friend for gifting us with such magic during this time in Kiruna!



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