Lycksele Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and culture of Lycksele in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Lycksele

Located in Västerbotten County in Norrland, Lycksele is a small town in the northern part of Sweden, known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. The town is situated on the banks of the Ume River, surrounded by dense forests and pristine lakes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. With numerous hiking and biking trails, historical sites, museums, and cultural events, Lycksele offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Swedish culture while enjoying the great outdoors.

List of Places to Visit in Lycksele

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lycksele Museum - Learn about the history and culture of the town at this museum, which includes exhibits on Sami culture and the region’s natural history.
  • Olofsfors Bruk - Explore the ruins of an old ironworks and learn about the history of metalworking in the region.
  • Lycksele Old Church - Visit this 18th-century wooden church, featuring beautiful frescoes and ornate wood-carvings.
  • Lycksele Zoo - See various Swedish wildlife species, such as moose, lynx, bear, and wolves, in a natural habitat.

Natural Attractions of Lycksele: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve - Hike and ski through mountainous terrain in one of Europe’s largest nature reserves, filled with pristine forests, wildlife, and over 45 mountain peaks.
  • Mårdseleforsen - Take a walk around the stunning waterfall and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding forests and river.
  • Ume River - Explore the river in kayaks or canoes, or go fishing for local catches like grayling, burbot, salmon, and pike.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lycksele

Lycksele has numerous hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Some popular options include:

  • The Umeleden Trail - A 350km long-distance hiking and biking trail passing through spectacular Nordic landscapes. There are various stages around Lycksele depending on the level of experience you wish to undertake.
  • Bocksjöleden Trail - A 9km hiking trail in a beautiful coniferous forest with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Korallgrottan Trail - A moderate 2.5km hiking trail to a natural limestone cave, featuring stunning formations and underground lakes.

Best Things to Do in Lycksele: Activities and Tours

  • Midnight Sun and Northern Lights Tour - Take a guided tour to the Arctic Circle to experience the midnight sun during summers or Northern Lights during winters.
  • Reindeer Farm Visit - Learn about Sami culture and traditions on a visit to a local reindeer farm, including feeding and herding the reindeer.
  • Dog Sledding Tour - Experience the thrill of winter dog sledding through the snow-covered forests and enjoy the stunning winter landscape of Lycksele.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lycksele

  • Day 1 - Visit Lycksele Museum and Old Church, then take a stroll around the town square.
  • Day 2 - Explore the ruins of Olofsfors Bruk, then go for a hike in Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve.
  • Day 3 - Take a trip to Mårdseleforsen and enjoy a picnic by the waterfall.
  • Day 4 - Go kayaking on the Ume River or take a fishing trip.
  • Day 5 - Visit Lycksele Zoo, then go for a bike ride along the Ume River.
  • Day 6 - Take a guided tour to Sami reindeer farms and learn about their way of life and traditions.
  • Day 7 - Experience the Northern Lights or Midnight Sun on an evening tour to the Arctic Circle.

Food and Drink Scene of Lycksele

Must-Try Dishes

  • Surströmming - A traditional Swedish dish of fermented Baltic herring, known for its unique smell and taste.
  • Kroppkakor - Boiled potato dumplings stuffed with pork or bacon, traditionally served with lingonberries.
  • Smörgåsbord - A Swedish buffet featuring various dishes, such as pickled herrings, smoked salmon, and meatballs.

Local Beverages

  • Mjöd - A traditional Swedish honey wine, made from fermented honey and water.
  • Swedish Beer - Try some locally brewed beers, such as Norrland’s Guld and Lapin Kulta.

Where to Stay in Lycksele: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lycksele has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Some popular choices include:

  • Hotell Lappland - A high-end hotel offering luxurious rooms, spa, and restaurant.
  • Källan Hotell & Konferens - A mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms, restaurant, and conference facilities.
  • Vandrarhemmet Lycksele - A budget-friendly hostel located in the town center.

What to Buy in Lycksele: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sami Crafts - Purchase some local handicrafts made by the indigenous Sami people, such as reindeer leather bags, jewelry, and traditional costumes.
  • Lingonberry Products - Try some local produce such as Lingonberry jam, and other food products using the lingonberry fruit.
  • Handmade Knives - Purchase handmade knives crafted by skilled local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Lycksele

Lycksele has a rich culture, influenced by the Sami people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about their traditions, music, and clothing, at the Lycksele Museum and during tours to Sami reindeer farms.

Best Time to Visit Lycksele

The best time to visit Lycksele depends on your interests. Summers (June-August) bring 24 hours of daylight, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities, while winters (December-February) offer the chance to experience dog sledding and Northern Lights. Spring and Autumn are great for wildlife spotting, as many animals come out of hibernation and the foliage changes colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lycksele

Do:

  • Respect nature and wildlife.
  • Learn about the local culture and traditions.
  • Take advantage of the various outdoor activities and tours.
  • Try the local food and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural attractions.
  • Disrespect Sami culture or customs.
  • Ignore safety precautions on outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lycksele

Lycksele is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take precautions while hiking or camping in the wilderness, such as informing someone about your travel plans and carrying proper gear.

Health in Lycksele

Lycksele has modern medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance when visiting Sweden. Mosquitoes may be prevalent in certain areas and adequate protection against mosquito bites must be taken.

Getting to Lycksele: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lycksele

Lycksele Airport is the main airport, located 4km from the town center, with direct flights to Stockholm and Umeå.

Bus Stations Near Lycksele

There are several bus stations that run to and from Lycksele, connecting it to other towns and cities, including Stockholm, Göteborg, Umeå, and Luleå.

Other Options

Lycksele is easily accessible by car, with good road connections to neighboring towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Lycksele

Lycksele can be easily navigated on foot or by bike. Local buses and taxis are available to travel within and outside the town.

Where to Go Next from Lycksele: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Umeå - A vibrant city, known for its cultural events, museums, and restaurants, located just 130km from Lycksele.
  • Hemavan - A small ski resort town located in the mountain range of Vindelfjällen, known for its winter sports.
  • Arvidsjaur - A town located 130km from Lycksele, famous for its wilderness and Sami culture.

Conclusion

Lycksele offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural attractions. From hiking and biking to reindeer farms and Northern Lights tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With friendly locals and a welcoming culture, Lycksele is a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience authentic Sweden.