If there’s one thing we’ve learned from our Arctic adventures, it’s that human stubbornness knows no latitude. Where most creatures call it quits, slap on some fur, and hibernate, humans build bars, churches, and—of course — saunas. Because what’s a little darkness, ice, and bone-snapping wind when there’s beer to drink, sins to confess, and steam to sweat out?

We’ve been there, frozen that — from sipping local brews in Svalbard to sweating it out in a sauna shaped like a golden egg in Sweden. So here’s our firsthand guide to the northernmost everythings—places so absurdly remote that you’ll question why (and how) they even exist.

Picture cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings that look like they stepped straight out of a fairy tale, contrasted with the sharp lines of Scandi-modern design.

It’s a place where time slows down, locals are smiling, fika (Swedish coffee breaks) is a ritual, and the water sparkles so clear you could mistake the city for one massive infinity pool.

Having been there a dozen times — usually on our way to Lapland — this is without a doubt our favorite Nordic capital. Discover our Stockholm travel guide, highlighting the best restaurants, top museums & attractions, unique shops, and perfect accommodations. Without forgetting our insider tips.

Kom igen!

Kiruna is one of our happy places.

Eli has been there no less than 6 times and counting, and it was the first Arctic destination she took Jake to when he moved to Europe.

Yet, Swedish Lapland is not the most visited. Finnish Lapland is more popular due to Rovaniemi’s Santa Village, and Norway’s Troms and Finnmark regions attract visitors from all over the world.

Find out why Kiruna is so special to us, and our best tips to explore this beautiful corner of the Arctic!

Sweden is always a good idea, no matter where you go.

This time, to satiate our winterlust, we decided to head a little more South than usual and spend a week in Luleå.

The largest city in Swedish Lapland seemed to have it all, with a well-connected airport, snowy landscapes, cozy cafés and restaurants, and, of course, the frozen Bothnian archipelago. It’s a university town with very few tourists — exactly our kind of places!

Ready to travel to Luleå with us?

Nestled between fjords and mountains, Ålesund is a perfect Norwegian postcard.

While we usually prefer Arctic destinations, we’ve decided to go a bit more “south” this time.

The fjord regions of Norway are very popular in summer, with dozens of cruise ships visiting every day. Since we prefer to selfishly keep Norway beauty to ourselves, we’ve decided to visit in winter.

Keep reading to explore Âlesund & Sunnmøre region with us!

Nordic gastronomy is still under the radar. However, after dozens of trips to Fenoscandia, we can ensure you that we tried some of the best food we ever had up North.

And there’s a good reason for this: while most of the Western world is “suffering” from processed food and a disconnection from nature, Nordic cuisine is still heavily based on natural resources and deeply rooted in tradition.

So, follow us on a delicious culinary journey through Arctic Europe!

If you enjoyed our article on Churchill, the town of polar bears, and want to learn more about polar bears, this article is for you!

We had the honor to interview Barbara Nielsen, Senior Director of Communications at Polar Bears International.

Keep reading to find out more about their mission, their work, and polar bears!

Ålesund is the perfect base to explore the surrounding fjords and mountains.

Møre og Romsdal region is home to dozens of beautiful fjords, which have contributed to Norway’s popularity for international travelers over the centuries.

Equipped with a rental car, our snow gear and great tips from Destination Ålesund & Sunnmøre, we decided to venture into the magical realm of winter fjords. Wanna tag along?

Set in a spectacular decor of fjords and mountains while being easily accessible, Ålesund is a perfect hiking base.

And Norway in general is a hiker paradise!

If you enjoyed our article on Things to see in Ålesund, keep reading for an active vacation!

Note: These hikes are doable in winter.

Cities can be nice, but as far as we’re concerned, they do not trigger strong emotions like nature does.

Sure, some monuments are real masterpieces, but we don’t think there is anything more powerful and impressive than nature.

If your favorite artist is also Mother Nature, keep reading to discover 5 top destinations all nature addicts should have on their bucket list.

Are you looking for a complete change of scenery for your next trip? Sometimes, there is no need to travel to the other side of the world (or to space!) for an “out of this world” feeling.

So, check out these 6 places which will make you feel like you’re on a different planet.

For nature lovers, hiking is often the nicest and most eco-friendly way to discover a country.

From day hikes to more challenging treks, there are suitable options for everyone.

We’ve picked 5 destinations which we consider ideal for hikers of all ages and levels, but there are many others to discover!

Do you need your daily dose of nature in order to be happy? Do you dream of spending all your weekends and holidays in the wilderness? Would you enjoy seeing wild animals wandering in your backyard?

If your answers are yes, you might consider below locations to establish yourself!