31 August – 3 September: Arctic Islands in the Luleå Archipelago

This press trip to the Luleå Archipelago invites you to discover island life at the edge of the Arctic. Set in the Bothnian Bay, home to the world's largest brackish water archipelago, this landscape is shaped by the forces of nature – from the land still rising after the last Ice Age to the fishing traditions, coastal communities and island culture that continue to define life here today.

As late summer gives way to autumn, you'll explore islands, paddle along quiet shores and discover how the region's natural pantry of berries, fish and game has shaped local food traditions for generations.

Join us for:

• Gammelstad Church Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, Gammelstad provides a fascinating introduction to one of northern Sweden’s most remarkable natural phenomena: land rise. When the medieval church was built in 1492, Gammelstad stood on an island at the mouth of the Luleå River and served as Luleå’s harbour. Today, due to post-glacial land uplift, the coastline lies around 10 kilometres away. This dramatic transformation helps explain both the formation of Luleå’s archipelago and why there are now more than 1,300 islands in the region.
• Arctic island life: Visiting islands in the Bothnian Bay and learning about coastal traditions and everyday life in the archipelago.
• Coastal flavours: Tasting local ingredients, from freshly caught fish to wild berries from the northern forests.
• Kayaking the archipelago: Experiencing the coastline from the water and getting closer to nature.
• Berries & Beer: Meeting local producers and discovering the flavours of Swedish Lapland.
• Northern Lights – the season begins: Looking to the night sky for the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays.