This northern Swedish city sits along its namesake river, known for its fresh salmon and local cheese. Visitors can explore forest trails, island boat tours, and the city museum.
In Skellefteå, 125 miles south of the Arctic Circle, you can ski down pine-covered slopes, watch ice hockey at the Skellefteå Kraft Arena, and explore Sweden's largest wooden building. This northern Swedish city has grown rapidly since 2020, driven by its battery production and renewable energy industries. The Skellefte River and surrounding forests create a base for year-round outdoor recreation.
Getting to Skellefteå
Skellefteå Airport connects the city with several European destinations, including new Ryanair flights from Gdansk. You can drive to Stockholm on the E4 highway or take a train from Bastuträsk station, which runs services to Stockholm, Umeå, and Luleå.
Winter Activities at Vitberget
From December to March, you can ski at Vitberget mountain on four slopes suitable for beginners and intermediates. The 5km cross-country skiing trails have lights for evening skiing, and local companies run electric snowmobile tours. In the city center, heated sidewalks keep the streets clear of snow and ice.
Sara Cultural House
The Sara Cultural House, Sweden's largest wooden building, opened in 2021. The main exhibition hall displays works by contemporary Swedish artists, with new exhibitions every three months. At the Trappscenen stage, you can watch comedy shows on Thursdays and live music on weekends. The building also includes a theater with daily performances.
Renewable Energy and Industry
Hydropower stations and wind farms generate all of Skellefteå's electricity. The Northvolt factory produces battery cells for European electric vehicles, while Skellefteå Kraft runs several clean energy projects. These industries have brought more than 5,000 new residents to the city since 2020.
Sports and Recreation
You can watch Skellefteå AIK play ice hockey at the 6,001-seat Skellefteå Kraft Arena. The team won the Swedish championship in 2024. In summer, fish for salmon in the Skellefte River's rapids near the city center. In winter, skate on the 3km maintained ice track on the frozen river. Local guides provide fishing equipment and lead trips year-round, with salmon season running from June to August.
