Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Ten Destinations to Visit in Sweden in 2022
Lapland View Lodge opened in December 2021. Photo: Michael Törnkvist
Secrets by the Arctic Circle At the heart of Torne Valley, Övertorneå is an exciting getaway with unforgettable nature, warm hospitality and genuine Arctic experiences. This spring, it has a few secrets up its sleeve, including a new mountain lodge, a hopeful neon message lighting up the dark winter months, and some beautiful silver jewellery. By Malin Norman
Located by the Torne River right on the Arctic Circle, with nature around the corner and Finland as its neighbour, Övertorneå is at the heart of Torne Valley. Here, you can discover the joys of a steamy sauna, explore the endless forest filled with berries to stock up your freezer, and marvel at the northern lights, the midnight sun or the sound of the first snow under your boots. And there are lots more things to do, besides. One particular highlight is Konstens Väg (‘the Road of Arts’), an initiative by 78 | Issue 138 | January 2022
Övertorneå municipality that showcases art outdoors. The route follows an old railway, heading south from Övertorneå and through small villages next to the river. “You can enjoy wonderful artworks by renowned artists, as you are discovering the area on skis or by snowmobile,” says Marcus Stenberg, marketing manager at Destination Övertorneå. Artist Carola Grahn, originally from Jokkmokk but based in Malmö, has created new addition Kämpa, a LED sign placed by the road in the village Ruskola.
The sign is a cinematic neon greeting to passers-by, lighting up the dark winter months. The handwritten word is a statement, a call for anyone who is about to give up, to find strength to continue that bit longer. It reflects the mentality of the people living here, who keep on going without complaining, and without the spotlight and the resources available in big cities, Stenberg explains. “It’s not intended as ‘you poor thing’, but rather as a celebration of something inside; that you can make things happen. Like a reminder, filling you with hope.” New lodge on the mountainside Luppioberget (the Luppio mountain) offers breathtaking views of the Torne Valley. Lapland View Lodge is an exciting new accommodation option here, developed by Johan and Sara Väisänen of Explore
