The midnight sun
Long, bright summer nights are a unique part of northern Sweden. During the summer months, the sun shines around the clock, providing a unique chance to experience nature in a completely new way. It is something quite special to go hiking, swimming and camping outdoors when the sun never sets. Below is some practical information that will let you experience the midnight sun in the best possible way.
What is midnight sun?
The midnight sun is a phenomenon that can be observed above the Arctic Circle in summer, as the sun never dips below the horizon. In other words, it is light during all hours of the day and night. The midnight sun is at its strongest around the summer solstice (when the sun is at its highest), around June 21. This light phenomenon has fascinated people for centuries and has figured prominently in the culture and traditions of the northern parts of Sweden.
Where can I experience the midnight sun?
As you go further north, the midnight sun gets brighter and longer. The midnight sun can be observed in many Swedish cities, from around Luleå and further north. Two places where you can be pretty much guaranteed midnight sun are Abisko and Kebnekaise. Abisko Tourist Station lets you take the cable car up to the Aurora Sky Station and continue on foot to the peak of Nuolja, 1164 meters above sea level, and enjoy the stunning view in the light of the midnight sun.
Stay under the magical glow of the midnight sun
When summer nights never grow dark, STF Abisko Turiststation is the perfect base for experiencing the midnight sun and exploring the majestic nature of Abisko. Here, you stay in the heart of the mountains with views of the Abisko Alps, Mount Nuolja, the iconic Lapporten, and the vast Lake Torneträsk. Choose the accommodation that suits you best – hotel room, hostel, or a private cabin. In our KRAV-certified restaurant with a full license, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all served with an unbeatable panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Experience the midnight sun from STF Aurora Sky Station
Take the chairlift up to Aurora Sky Station and continue hiking to the summit of Mount Nuolja, 1,164 metres above sea level. From here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Lapporten, Lake Torneträsk, and the Abisko Alps. Several scenic hiking trails start from this point, or you can simply relax and take in the high alpine flora – or the view – from the Aurora Sky Station’s sunny terrace. A café is also open at the top, serving Swedish fika and light lunches.
From mid-June to mid-July, the chairlift runs in the evenings too – perfect if you want to experience the magical light of the midnight sun from one of Sweden’s most spectacular viewpoints.
Activities with midnight sun
Experience the glowing golden light of the midnight sun
Best places for midnight sun
| Location: | Height: | Period: | Best time: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vallespiken | 1388 m | 4/6-9/7 | 12.40 AM |
| Lulep Kierkau | 187 m | 2/6-12/7 | 12.48 AM |
| Porjus | 370 m | 5/6-8/7 | 12.43 AM |
| Dundret | 823 m | 4/6-9/7 | 12.40 AM |
| Kebnekaise | 2097 m | 29/5-15/7 | 12.48 AM |
| Abisko/Njulla | 1163 m | 27/5-18/7 | 12.47 AM |
| Abisko | 385 m | 12/6-4/7 | 12.47 AM |
| Riksgränsen | 520 m | 26/5-18/7 | 12.49 AM |
| Karesuando | 330 m | 26/5-18/7 | 12.32 AM |
| Pältsa | 1448 m | 23/5-21/7 | 12.41 AM |
Other accomodations with midnight sun
A selection of our accommodations that, thanks to their northern location, offer midnight sun.
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