Jopikgården Lodge is set to open just below the Arctic Circle in Sweden. The catch is you’ll just have to drive a sea ice road to get to it.
During the summer months, the island of Hindersön, located in the Bay of Bothnia, a finger of land between Sweden and Finland, is an idyllic coastal retreat. However, come this December, when the waters between the island and the mainland freeze over, a new four-room lodge offers intrepid travelers a unique Scandinavian sea ice-driving adventure.
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Jopikgården Lodge will offer travelers a host of guided seasonal activities ranging from snowshoeing and fire-making to dog sledding; excursions onto the pack ice, skiing, ice fishing, fat biking on snow and ice; and of course, the chance to experience the Northern Lights. For those looking for a more traditional arrival into the lodge, it is also possible to meet your own team of dogs and take a husky ride out to the island.
The new lodge will be operated by Luleå Archipelago Adventures, a small customer-focused tourism company that specializes in small group experiences and boutique accommodation in the Luleå Archipelago year-round.
With new direct flights to the nearest town of Lulea planned, including a new route from London starting in December, the island is a perfect and convenient destination, just a 40-minute drive from the airport.
“Whether self-driving or as part of a transfer, driving over the sea ice is a great way to arrive,” says Shane Doolin, co-owner of the new Jopikgården Lodge. “The journey out to the island really gives you a sense of getting away from the world, so that you can be close to nature and enjoy the peace and stunning winter scenery, that makes our island such a special place to experience.”
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The new lodge combines comfort with traditional Swedish hospitality and an ethos of eco-travel that extends from the accommodation to all of the experiences. Open from December 18, 2020, until March 15, 2021, tariffs include transfers, meals, additional winter clothing for all full guided tours with all of the equipment and instruction required; experienced guides, and all activities.
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