Into the Arctic Night

The Arctic has always been a place of fascination for me, a former Arctic researcher turned travel writer. The allure of the northern lights, dancing across the sky in a symphony of colors, is a spectacle that never fails to captivate. My recent journey to Abisko, a remote corner of Norrbotten County, was no exception. The promise of the Abisko Adventure was too enticing to resist.

Upon arrival, the biting cold of -25°C was a harsh reminder of the Arctic’s unforgiving nature. Yet, the warmth of the team at Lights Over Lapland was a stark contrast. Rachel and Jeanette, with their meticulous planning and genuine care, made the transition from the chaos of travel to the serenity of the Arctic seamless. Their guidance was invaluable, especially for someone like me, who has spent countless nights under the polar skies but never with a camera in hand.

The first night was a revelation. Anne, our guide, led us to a secluded spot where the sky seemed to open up just for us. The aurora borealis, in all its glory, painted the heavens with hues of green and purple. As I sipped on hot lingonberry juice, the cold seemed to fade away, replaced by a sense of awe and wonder. The experience was surreal, a reminder of the raw beauty that the Arctic holds.

Chasing the Elusive Lights

The subsequent nights were a testament to the unpredictability of the Arctic. Despite the absence of the northern lights, the experience was far from disappointing. Zack and Fabien, our guides for the second and third nights, took us on a journey through moonlit landscapes, where the snow glistened like diamonds under the starlit sky.

The sleigh ride, pulled by a snowmobile, was an adventure in itself. The cold wind biting at my face, the sound of the snow crunching beneath us, and the vast expanse of white stretching out in every direction was a reminder of the Arctic’s harsh beauty. Zack’s explanation of the science behind the auroras was enlightening, adding depth to the experience.

Even without the lights, the Arctic night was alive with possibilities. Fabien’s light painting experiments added a touch of whimsy to the evening, a playful contrast to the starkness of the surroundings. It was a reminder that the Arctic, in all its harshness, is also a place of joy and wonder.

A Final Night to Remember

The final night was nothing short of magical. With the odds stacked against us due to cloudy forecasts, Zack and Gavin’s expertise shone through. They found a spot where the skies cleared just enough for the auroras to make their grand appearance. The lights danced across the sky, a fitting finale to an unforgettable adventure.

The daytime activities were equally captivating. A morning hike with Zack revealed the hidden beauty of the Arctic landscape. The hoar frost on the trees transformed the forest into a winter wonderland, a sight that was both breathtaking and humbling.

Dog sledding, a quintessential Arctic experience, was a joyous affair. The dogs, full of energy and enthusiasm, led us through stunning landscapes, with a surprise sighting of moose adding to the excitement. The Sami & Reindeer experience offered a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the region, a reminder of the deep connection between the people and the land.

As I sat by the fireplace at the Abisko Turiststation hotel, reflecting on the journey, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. The Arctic, in all its harshness, had once again revealed its beauty and mystery. The Abisko Adventure was more than just a trip; it was a journey into the heart of the Arctic, a reminder of the wonders that lie beyond the familiar.