Saab Lapland Explorer

We are very excited to offer a new week-long, self-drive itinerary which covers 800km (round trip) across Lapland, from the tiny Swedish hamlet of Jukkasjarvi to the quaint Norwegian harbour side town of Henningsvaer. Spaces are strictly limited to no more than 6 vehicles per departure and if you want a piece of the action, you’ll have to book early!

Fly from London to Kiruna via Stockholm and transfer by bus to the ICEHOTEL, a drive of around 15 minutes. This awe-inspiring structure is ‘home’ for the next two nights, one of which will be in a Snow Room. If you wish to upgrade to an Art Suite or perhaps have heated accommodation for both nights, this may be possible subject to availability – just check with us at the time of booking.

Shortly after arrival take a guided tour of the ICEHOTEL and get your bearings – you could also stop for a vodka cocktail or two in the ABSOLUT ICEBAR which is recommended as there won’t be any more driving tonight! Something to note, Sweden and Norway, very sensibly operate a zero tolerance policy on drink driving, so no alcohol should be consumed by the driver/s when on the road. This also applies should you wish to take a snowmobile excursion whilst at the ICEHOTEL or Bjorkliden.

Day two is the day you will receive the keys to your car, a SAAB 9-3 Sport Combi XWD (4WD) 2.0 Turbo – very nice indeed! The good people at the ICEHOTEL will run over the car’s controls and give you tips on winter driving. You may wish to head out for a little drive to get to know the vehicle or alternatively, there are plenty of optional excursions and activities available for you to experience.

Why not try an evening snowmobile ride through the forest in search of the northern lights or let paw power take over and drive your own team of huskies?

On your third day in Lapland the open road beckons. Not far outside of Jukkasjarvi you’ll find yourself driving through the incredibly scenic Abisko National Park. Once past a long, frozen lake on the single-carriageway route through ever-changing scenery, you will arrive in the Swedish ski resort of Bjorkliden. This is a drive of around 1½ hours, give or take a photo stop or two and make sure you look out for elk and reindeer en route! In Bjorkliden you’ll overnight in a hillside cottage. For details of the skiing at Bjorkliden click here.

From Bjorkliden, the road twists and turns through mountainous scenery then as you cross over the Norwegian border it drops dramatically, though still hangs high above stunning fjordland on the way to the wonderfully scenic Lofoten Islands. Until recently, you would need to get a ferry across from Narvik but now there is no need to head into the town. A much quicker route is now possible with the addition of a road bridge which links the mainland with the islands - just follow the signs to Lofoten, Svolvaer and Henningsvaer! Don’t worry about directions now, we will provide you with a detailed route description and a driving dossier containing plenty of useful information so you will leave home fully prepared for your Lapland Adventure.

The route continues over a number of bridges traversing the many isles and inlets of the archipelago on the way to Henningsvaer, a journey that should take around 4 hours. This is probably the most enjoyable section of the driving you’ll experience on this itinerary as the road weaves in, out and around tiny, brightlypainted settlements and hugs tall, glacier-carved peaks as well as skirting dramatic coastline.

No doubt with a smile on your face, check in at Finnholmen Bryggehotel for a 3-night stay in this picture-postcard fishing village, made up of traditional wooden buildings, fishing boats and an impressive backdrop.

Each of the 31 rooms at the hotel is comfortably appointed with private facilities. After your long drive, relax in the bar, perhaps take a sauna and enjoy the delicious meals served in the hotel’s restaurant, Bluefish, where naturally, seafood is a speciality.

It is impossible not to fall in love with the charms of Henningsvaer and in fact this part of the world is much loved by artists and creative folk. As well as beautiful views, it boasts a gallery, handicraft and ceramics workshops and a selection of restaurant and café dining where you can sit in a window and watch as life in the bustling harbour goes by.

Whilst on the Lofoten Islands, daylight hours permitting, you may wish to explore further afield. These islands are scattered with typical Norwegian fishing villages and places such as Reine with its dramatic mountains rising sheer from the ocean or visit the north shores with their unbelievably white sand beaches, providing even more photographic opportunities.

Following breakfast on the penultimate day of your holiday meander back to Bjorkliden, soaking up the scenery and the kilometers before an overnight stay. Then sadly it is time to return to the ICEHOTEL to drop off your SAAB and we guarantee it won’t be easy to hand back the keys! Finally, transfer to the airport for the flight home.

Please note the minimum driving age is 18, with a valid driving licence. A compulsory alcohol test may be requested before driving.