Sports in winter!

Tjena!

As you perhaps already know, Sweden has its dark, cold and loooong winter. However, for the fans of winter sports, there could be nothing more exhilarating than the winter season. Swedes generally like winter sports and there is actually a special week off given to schools when people can go and enjoy sports. This week is called “sportlov”. If you are interested in trying out some activities in Sweden then let’s see what Sweden has to offer! 😉

1. Ice hockey

I read somewhere that ice hockey is almost like a religion in Sweden. This is actually close to the truth. It probably is one of the most popular sports for both players and viewers. It is so popular that even for me as a person who never was interested in ice hockey and didn’t speak Swedish when I came here, I knew there was something going on because firstly, we had ads everywhere and secondly, all my Swedish friends were talking about the game happening soon. In Linköping, you can attend a match as we have games happening from time to time. Also, it may be a great way to make Swedish friends in no time!

2. Waterfall climbing

When I heard about it for the first time I thought “I am never going to do it”. But only a year after I said it, I did it. But what is it exactly? Well… as the name says, it is climbing frozen waterfalls. If it sounds crazy and dangerous… well… it is! I did it only once and by accident. I went with my friends for a hike in winter. I did not know the path, but we had a person who was walking there multiple times. He just never said what exactly it includes. It was a small waterfall but still, I was as terrified, and I am not going to repeat it anytime soon. It isn’t an activity for everybody but if you try it make sure you have a trained person with you! It is very important otherwise an exciting trip can end sadly.

3. Skiing

Swedes love to ski. Regardless of if they can do it in Åre with its excellent mountains or on nearby slopes, they will go skiing at any chance they get. You do not need your own equipment because you can borrow it. Also, you are not restricted to these very few hours of daylight. Many slopes have very lightening installed so you can jump on the skies even after sunset!

4. Cross-country skiing

I remember, once a Swede told me that cross-country skiing could probably be a national sport of Sweden. I don’t know if that is the case, but I can see people doing this sport everywhere where there is even a little open space. If you prefer a safely prepared track you will find them easily, but you can also go into the wilderness and try yourself on the unspoiled countryside.

5. Ice fishing

There are plenty of lakes scattered across Sweden perhaps with even more fish in them. Ice fishing is actually straightforward. You need a chair, a drill, a lure and you’re all settled. You can do it in the city as well as in the countryside, whichever you prefer. But remember about safety! Thoroughly check that the ice is thick enough to support your weight.

6. Dog sledging or mushing

Particularly, it is popular in northern Sweden. This journey through the marvellous scenery of Lapland with dogs can be a great experience. You don’t move as fast as on a snowmobile but not as slow as walking thus, you can cover a decent distance and view all flatlands, mountains, frozen lakes and forests. As a piece of advice, take a guide for your trips. As beautiful as Lapland is, it is also unforgivable to your mistakes, for example, losing a road.

7. Ice skating

Quite a popular sport not only in Sweden. However, here from the end of November till March/April, you can find indoor rinks in multiple places. Later when the weather allows it you can try ice skating in nature. Unless there are signs, it is allowed to ice skate on lakes. But understand the dangers! Put safety in the first place! Also, surprising for me here, in Sweden, is that renting skates is so cheap.

There are also some other things you can do during winter such as snowmobile but I wouldn’t maybe call it a sport. Either way, there are definitely activities for you for long winter nights. I hope you will enjoy the winter days in Sweden as much as I do!