Umeå

A trip with a dog team, wrapped up in warm blankets under the northern lights, is a superb way of experiencing the countryside of Norrland. There's a good chance you’ll encounter an elk or a reindeer, too. There are four companies that offer dog sledding tours: Hedlunda Husky (www.hedlundahusky.se), Granö Beckasin (granobeckasin.com), River Lake Huskies (www.teamissa.se) and Aurora Borealis Adventures (auroraborealis.nu).

Umeå brothers Samuel and Michael Åhdén possess one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of guitars. In 2014, the whole world got a chance to see it. You can visit the experience-based, interactive exhibition of electric guitars, basses, amps and music accessories at Umeå Guitar Museum. The museum houses about 500 exhibits altogether. Alongside the permanent exhibition, the museum arranges lectures, temporary exhibitions and presentations of new developments. World stars will also visit the museum during the year and hold ‘clinics’ — open guitar lessons.

In recent years, Bildmuseet has established itself as one of the country’s leading museums for photography and the visual arts. Painting, sculpture, drawings, graffiti, video and installations, but also photojournalism, design, architecture and the world of scientific images are presented in about 15 exhibitions per year. The museum's new seven-story building enjoys phenomenal views. Along with its shop and café the museum is by the Ume river.

The permanent exhibitions at the Västerbotten Museum delve into the county's ancient history, cultural heritage, settler life and reindeer husbandry. It also houses a remarkable photographic collection of Sune Jonsson, capturing the essence of the Norrland agricultural landscape. In the summer, the outdoor museum at Gammlia buzzes with activity. Historical buildings, relocated from various parts of the county, together with period-costumed cottage hosts and farm animals, create an authentic atmosphere. Three different Sami settlements have been recreated at Gammlia. In the winter, visitors can explore the permanent exhibitions and wander through the grounds.

Ume River Valley, with roads and trails following the Ume River, forms a popular excursion route that winds through a beautiful cultural landscape. Enjoy the rushing waters, lush forests, stunning views, and a wealth of attractions rich in history, art, and culture. Whether you're on a bike, on foot, or in a car, there's plenty to marvel at.

GSA Gallery (Gallery Andersson / Sandström) is situated in the old hospital area of Umedalen and specializes in displaying international contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on sculpture. For more information about the current exhibitions, take a look at their website.

Vindel River is one of the world's premier destinations for white-water rafting. Various companies offer everything from tranquil half-day excursions to extreme adventures, with prices varying greatly depending on the activity. For more information, visit one of their websites. This is a summer activity.

Olofsfors Ironworks is one of Sweden's most authentic and well-preserved ironworks environments. The foundry, forges, the manor house and residential buildings are in excellent condition and open for tours year-round. In the summer, the area is open daily, and several artists and craftsmen are at place in their workshops. The manor house now serves as a restaurant, and the old school building houses a café and shop.

Holmöarna consists of a group of larger and smaller islands. The nature here is unique, with large areas of land and water protected as nature reserves. The birdlife is particularly abundant, especially around Stora Fjäderägg, which is also home to a bird station. The archipelago is also renowned for boat building.

Norrbyskär is an archipelago with a fascinating history, located 40 km south of Umeå. At the turn of the century, Europe's largest steam sawmill was located here. Today, it's an idyllic spot offering experiences for the whole family. Enjoy delicious food and stay in a manor-like setting at Hotel Norrbyskär. A passenger ferry, with multiple trips daily during the summer, connects the island to Norrbyn.

UmeLagun is an outdoor pool located next to Nydalabadet, featuring a 25-meter lap pool. The family and adventure area includes lazy rivers, a children's lagoon, a family lagoon, whirlpools, a warm pool, and various water attractions. There are two large water slides, one straight and one spiral, both with a height that ensures a thrilling speed down into the pool. A kiosk is available on-site, along with nearby dining options.