Storuman Travel Guide

Discover the stunning wilderness of Storuman in Sweden with our comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, this guide highlights the best things to see, do, and eat in Storuman.


Introduction to Storuman

Storuman is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Scandinavian wilderness in Västerbotten County, in Norrland, Sweden. This idyllic town with a population of around 3000 offers a perfect escape for those seeking a laidback break from city life. Known for its stunning natural beauty, warm hospitality, and cultural richness, Storuman never fails to attract nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture buffs.

In this travel guide, we share the best sights and experiences that Storuman has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Storuman

From cultural attractions to natural wonders, Storuman boasts an array of exciting places to explore. Here are our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hembygdsgård - A fascinating open-air museum that showcases the region’s history and traditional way of life.
  • Kilvo Sami Museum - A small yet engrossing museum that offers insights into the Sami culture and their way of life.
  • Storuman Mekaniska Museum - This museum is dedicated to celebrating the region’s industrial heritage, from steam engines to vintage cars.

Natural Attractions of Storuman: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Platåfjäll Nature Reserve - Spanning over 3500 hectares, Platåfjäll is a wilderness paradise that offers stunning hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and an opportunity to spot exotic wildlife.
  • Stensele Nature Reserve - This reserve is a mecca for nature lovers, photographers, and bird watchers. Renowned for its varied landscape and picturesque vistas, this reserve boasts crystal-clear waters, bubbling streams, and dense forests.
  • Umeälven River - Flowing through the heart of Storuman, Umeälven is an ideal location to indulge in kayaking, fishing, and other water adventures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Storuman

Storuman is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous hiking trails offering breathtaking vistas and a sense of tranquillity. Here are a few of our favourites:

  • Blåviksälven Trail - A scenic trail that meanders through birch forests, follows along riversides, and offers unparalleled views of the beautiful Blåviksälven river.
  • Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve - One of the most extensive nature reserves in Europe, this wilderness area offers numerous hiking trails, clean air, and unspoiled landscapes.
  • Marsfjällen Trail - A stunning trail taking in waterfalls, magnificent vistas of the Marsfjällen mountain range, and iconic Lapland sceneries.

Best Things to Do in Storuman: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, Storuman boasts a plethora of activities and tours for the adventure seeker. Here are a few of our favourites:

  • Snowmobile Safari - For those who like to feel the wind whipping past their face, a snowmobile safari is a must-do activity.
  • Northern Lights Tour - Head out in the wilderness and witness the otherworldly magic of Aurora Borealis.
  • Dog Sledding Tour - Explore the winter landscapes of Storuman by dog sled and experience the pure thrill of being in the great outdoors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Storuman

If you have a week to spare, here’s a suggested itinerary so you can make the most of your stay in Storuman:

Day 1 - Arrive and check into your hotel in Storuman.
Day 2 - Go hiking in Platåfjäll Nature Reserve and explore the Sami culture at Kilvo Sami Museum.
Day 3 - Take a snowmobile safari in Marsfjällen mountain range.
Day 4 - Visit Hembygdsgård and explore Storuman Mekaniska Museum.
Day 5 - Go on a dog sledding tour and have dinner at a traditional Sami restaurant.
Day 6 - Explore the scenic Stensele Nature Reserve and go fishing on Umeälven River.
Day 7 - Depart from Storuman.

Food and Drink Scene of Storuman

No trip to Storuman is complete without indulging in the local cuisine and drinks. Here are a few must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sautéed reindeer - A classic Sami dish made with tender reindeer meat in a rich, savoury sauce.
  • Wild salmon - Fresh and flavourful, wild salmon is a delicacy that tastes like nothing else.
  • Meatballs - A Swedish classic, served with mashed potato, lingonberry jam, and gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Cloudberry Liqueur - A sweet and unique liqueur made from wild cloudberries.
  • Beer from Västerbottens Bryggeri - A local microbrewery crafting refreshing beers using the purest water from the surrounding mountains.

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

Storuman offers a range of accommodation options suiting various budgets and preferences. Here are a few of our top picks:

  • Storuman Fjällhotell - A cozy hotel with breathtaking mountain views and excellent facilities.
  • Saxnäsgården Hotell & Konferens - A beautiful hotel located in the heart of the Stensele Naturreservat.
  • Lantliv Lodge - A bed & breakfast set in a quaint log cabin, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

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

Storuman has a range of souvenirs that are quintessentially Swedish, including:

  • Sami handicrafts - Purses, bracelets, hats, and other items made by the Sami people using traditional methods.
  • Swedish sweets - Popular sweets like Daim, Marabou, and Polly are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
  • Storuman Ale - A refreshing ale produced by the local brewery, Västerbottens Bryggeri.

Local Culture and Customs of Storuman

Storuman has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with the Sami culture playing a vital role in shaping the region’s identity. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of Sami traditions and to engage with them in a gentle and thoughtful manner.

Best Time to Visit Storuman

Storuman has something to offer visitors year-round. Summer is ideal for hiking, fishing, and exploring natural reserves, while winter is perfect for enjoying winter sports, such as snowmobiling and dog sledding. Northern lights can be witnessed from late September to early April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Storuman

Do:

  • Dress appropriately for the weather, especially in winter.
  • Learn to say “hej” (hello) and “tack” (thank you) in Swedish.
  • Respect the Sami culture and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural reserves and parks.
  • Ignore warnings about wildlife and weather.
  • Ignore traffic rules and speed limits.
  • Be too loud or disruptive during Sami cultural events.

Safety and Health

Safety in Storuman

Storuman is a safe and peaceful town. However, make sure to take necessary precautions while indulging in outdoor activities.

Health in Storuman

The region experiences harsh winter weather, so make sure to pack warm clothing and take necessary measures to protect yourself from cold-related illnesses.

Getting to Storuman: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Storuman

  • Hemavan Tärnaby Airport - Located 100 km from Storuman.
  • Arvidsjaur Airport - Located 140 km from Storuman.
  • Umeå Airport - Located 220 km from Storuman.

Bus Stations Near Storuman

  • Storuman Bus Station - Located in the heart of Storuman, offering connections to nearby areas.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - A convenient way to travel around Storuman and explore its surroundings.
  • Taxi - A safe and comprehensive way to reach Storuman.

How to Get Around in Storuman

Storuman is a small town, and it is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. However, if you want to explore further afield, renting a car is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Storuman: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kiruna - A town famous for its northernmost location, stunning landscapes, and the Icehotel.
  • Åre - A picturesque ski resort renowned for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Östersund - A charming city rich in culture and history, just a short ride from Storuman.

Conclusion

Storuman is a hidden gem in Sweden, offering unparalleled natural beauty and diverse cultural experiences. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your visit, explore the best sights, try the local cuisine, and create unforgettable memories. From hiking and biking to snowmobiling and dog sledding, there’s something for everyone in Storuman.

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