Mountains & Night Skies - A Women's Photography Retreat in Swedish Lapland

This is your invitation to our Secret Adventure 🤫

This secret adventure is a new, one-of-a-kind experience we’re offering only to our subscribers. To preserve these pristine locations, we keep their exact whereabouts confidential.

 

Group size
Up to 7 participants

Meeting point
Luleå, Sweden

when
8 days / 7 nights

FOR WHO
WOMEN,
17 years and above

Leader
Sara Lindström

ACCOMMODATION
Secret mountain lodge in Swedish Lapland

WHEN
2–9 March, 2026

DIFFICULTY
Easy. suitable for individuals with general fitness.


The best photos often happen in silence – with warm hands, steady breath, and good company.
— Sara Lindström
 

Night photography workshop

Paint the sky with your camera and simple settings for aurora. Photo: Sara Lindström

Creative circle

Women only, small group, shared learning and new friends. Photo: Sara Lindström

The Wild animals

Chance to watch moose, mountain hare and other wildlife. Photo: Sara Lindström

Sámi reindeer and stories

Meet a herder, share food and firelight. Photo: Sara Lindström

Huskies on snow

Ride through the winter forest, feel the hush of the trail.

Remote lakeside lodge

Cabins, sauna, good food and snow all over

 
 

Now open for bookings!

Click the button “Rates & Dates”, pick the date and send your request. We’ll review and confirm by email.

Pay a 20% deposit on confirmation. No payment or charges will be applied until your booking is confirmed. The balance is due 30 days before arrival.

Cancellations up to 30 days before: 80% refund. You can add Cancellation Protection for extra flexibility.

🛡Full financial protection: Rest assured, all bookings are fully financially protected.

🛟 See our cancellation terms

 
 

Meet your host – Sara Lindström

I’m a photographer and wilderness guide from the north. I love slow nights under big skies, teaching simple ways to capture aurora, and creating a calm space where women feel welcome outdoors. For me, a good image begins with presence, not with gear. I can’t wait to share these mountains with you. – Sara Photo: Sara Lindström

I’d never seen anything like Sara’s pictures of Swedish Lapland. I longed to walk amidst those landscapes.
— Geetika Jain, Conde Nast Traveller
 

Accommodation

First and last night in Luleå

We stay the first and last night at Amber Hotel in central Luleå, close to the train and bus station. You get your own room unless you book together with someone.

Årrenjarka mountain lodge

We stay five nights at Årrenjarka, a remotely located lodge in protected land. Comfortable rooms and beds in modern cabins with fire places and heating.

 

7 nights in Swedish Lapland

We keep the exact locations private, but here is what you week will be like…

  • Day 1: Arrive in Luleå, Swedish Lapland

    Arrive in Luleå by night train or a short flight from Stockholm. Check in at Amber Hotel in the town centre.

    Settle in and relax. We meet up for a welcome dinner in town.

    Night at Amber Hotel, Luleå.

    Why arrive a day early? This gives you time to unwind, settle into the rhythm of the Arctic, and be fully rested for our adventure, which begins in daylight the next day.

  • After breakfast we drive to Jokkmokk to visit Anna and her reindeer, with lunch in her lávvu.

    In the afternoon we collect winter clothing if you have rented it, then continue about 1.5 hours to our mountain base.

    Check in, enjoy dinner, then stargazing with hot drinks by the fire if the sky is clear.

    Night at Årrenjarka.

  • After breakfast we start with a practical intro to night photography. Simple settings, steady shots, how to prepare for the dark.

    After lunch we go for a short photo walk near the lodge to practice. Fika by the campfire.

    Dinner at the lodge, then an aurora session on foot if the sky is clear.

    Night at Årrenjarka.

  • A slow morning to rest, journal or take a walk.

    After lunch we head out on a snowmobile excursion to reach deeper into the mountains. Hot drinks by the fire or a sunset sauna when we return.

    Dinner at the lodge. If conditions are good, we go out again to watch for northern lights.

    Night at Årrenjarka.

  • Today we travel by car to a scenic valley and explore on a gentle snowshoe hike. Packed lunch by a campfire.

    Free time in the afternoon to rest or review photos.

    Dinner at the lodge, then northern lights if the sky is clear.

    Night at Årrenjarka.

  • A calm morning.

    After lunch we take turns dog sledding through the winter forest.

    Back at the lodge we warm up in the sauna.

    Dinner together, and one more chance for night photography if conditions allow.

    Night at Årrenjarka.

  • Breakfast, then departure to Jokkmokk to return rented winter clothing.

    We continue to Storforsen for lunch and a short walk by Europe’s largest unbound rapids.

    Arrival in Luleå during the afternoon, drop off at Amber Hotel, and goodbyes to your guide. Enjoy your evening in town.

    Night at Amber Hotel, Luleå.

  • Breakfast at the hotel.

    If time allows, take a walk on the ice in the frozen bay and see a bit of Luleå before you travel home.

    Check out and depart with flight or train.

 

LOCATION & HOW TO GET HERE

The adventure begins at Amber Hotel in Luleå town in Swedish Lapland. Check-in time is 3 pm, but you can arrive earlier and relax in the reception lounge or explore Luleå.

Address: Stationsgatan 67, 972 34 Luleå >> Link to Google Maps

Meeting time: On Day 1 meet up with your guide at Amber Hotel in Luleå at 18:00 (6 pm).

By train: We highly recommend the Arctic Circle train from Stockholm or Arlanda airport to Luleå, which runs on renewable energy. The journey takes around 13 hours and offers a memorable start to your adventure. You can also choose to travel by train in one direction and fly in the other direction. The train has a restaurant serving basic meals, snacks, and drinks. Purchase your train tickets online at www.sj.se. A bunk bed in a shared 6-bed compartment costs approximately 3000 SEK for a return ticket, with 3-bed and private compartments also available. Upon arrival in Luleå, it's just a short 500-meter walk to Amber Hotel, where the tour begins.

By air: To get to Luleå, fly from Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) with SAS or Norwegian. Also see if there are any direct connections from London, Paris and Düsseldorf to Luleå. Luleå Airport is small, and you can easily reach Luleå by shuttle bus or taxi (20 minutes). As there are no scheduled activities on the first and last day of the tour, you can choose to take a flight or train at any time that suits you.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • Tour leader, day 1-7

  • All the activities specified in the program

  • 7 nights accommodation

  • All meals from dinner Day 1 to lunch Day 7, plus hotel breakfast Day 8.

  • We use a 9-seater van for travel during the trip.

ADD-ONS

During the booking process, you can choose to add the following extras:

  • Single or double rooms in Luleå. Twin share at the lodge. Singleroom upgrade available.

  • Rent winter clothing for 2300 SEK.

  • Merino wool top + long johns set to buy for 2025 SEK.

  • Alcoholic beverages (cash or card).

 

STAY WARM & LOOK COOL

We will equip you with premium, top-quality winter gear from renowned Scandinavian brands, such as Fjällräven, Hestra, and Lundhags, including warm clothing, boots, hats, gloves and a headlamp. You can also order our recommended merino-wool set. Our utmost priority is ensuring that you remain comfortably warm throughout your entire trip.


Questions & Answers

  • Yes. Women only. 15 +

  • No, all levels are welcome.

  • A camera or phone, small tripod, extra batteries and a memory card. We’ll send a short gear list after booking.

    Although a DSLR or mirrorless camera is highly beneficial to capture the night sky powerfully, the newer models of smart phones do a decent job too.

  • We go out when the sky is clear. The aurora is natural and can never be guaranteed, but March is a good time here.

  • While we can’t guarantee sightings, we’ve chosen dates and locations that maximize your chances. Even if the aurora is elusive, you’ll still enjoy an unforgettable winter experience filled with culture, wildlife, and cozy moments by the fire.

  • Yes! The lodge is warm and cozy, and we highly recommend you rent our top-notch winter clothing. The sauna is also perfect for warming up after a day outdoors.

  • Don’t worry, packing light is fine! You can rent our high-quality winter gear, including insulated boots, outerwear, and other essentials. You’ll stay warm and comfortable, even in the Arctic cold.

  • The itinerary is balanced, with plenty of opportunities to rest and take things at your own pace. Snowshoe hikes and dog sledding are beginner-friendly, and our guide will tailor activities to the group's comfort level. There’s also no pressure to participate, relaxing by the fire is always an option.

  • Absolutely! Our activities, like snowshoeing and dog sledding, are designed to be enjoyable and accessible for people with general fitness. You’re welcome to participate as much or as little as you like, and there’s always time to relax or explore quietly on your own.

  • Not at all! Many of our guests travel solo and quickly form connections with other like-minded women in our small group setting. We intentionally keep group sizes small to ensure a friendly, intimate atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.

  • Yes! The best time to visit Swedish Lapland for a snow based holiday is from December to March.

    December, January and February tend to be the coldest months, with temperatures between -10°C to -30°C, but the air is pleasantly dry and crisp, making even the extreme cold bearable.

    December and the first half of January will have very short daylight hours, but that also means better chances to see the Northern Lights.

    The second half of February and March is a lot more pleasant with milder temperatures with snow on the ground but longer days and chances for bright, sunny weather, and still great for northern lights.

  • You can but the recommended minimum age is 17 years.

  • We expect to encounter Moose, Reindeer and Red Squirrel but also birds such as Siberian Jay, Siberian Tit, Willow Tit, Blue Tit, Black Grouse and Northern Dipper.

  • This tour is not specifically adapted for photographing wildlife, although there will most likely be opportunities to photograph moose, reindeer, birds and capturing breathtaking moments and stunning landscapes as well as the Northern Lights.

  • During this trip we will go dig sledding with our friend Tor-Henric. Happy dogs result in happy guests and guides. He take pride in ensuring his dogs are well-cared for and do not compromise on quality to compete with budget sledding companies.

    His kennel meets all government requirements, and retired dogs are given a comfortable home on their property.

  • We actively support rewilding and local initiatives, contributing to the preservation of the region's unique wildlife and environment.

    You will be invited to help save Sweden's old-growth forests from clear-cutting by donating to WildSweden's Save the Forest Fund. 100% of your donation goes directly to activists and organisations working to conserve Sweden’s forests.

  • Of course! Many of our guests choose to visit Stockholm before or after the adventure. You can also add extra days in Luleå, a great way to extend your Arctic adventure.

  • Yes! We happily accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary preferences. Our meals feature locally-sourced, healthy ingredients, and you’ll have a variety of delicious options.

  • Yes. Our schedule is intentionally balanced, with unplanned moments to rest, reflect, or enjoy the company of new friends.

  • We offer flexible cancellation options. Cancellations up to 30 days before arrival are eligible for an 80% refund, and you can add our Cancellation Protection plan for even greater peace of mind.

 

Wolverines in the Summer night

Your invitation to a Secret Adventure

Secret Adventures are exclusive trips shared only with our subscribers. Sometimes it’s a twist on a past trip, and sometimes it’s something completely new. The exact locations are kept secret to protect these special places.

We first tried this adventure in 2024. While we didn’t spot a wolverine then, a camera trap showed one appeared just minutes after it got dark. This year, we’re heading out earlier in the season and staying up all night to improve our chances of seeing one in the wild. This time of the year also offer big chances for bears!

 

Max group size
Up to 6 persons

Meeting location
Ljusdal, Sweden

Duration
2 Days / 1 night

Kid friendly?
From 15 years

ACCOMMODATION
1 night in shared cabins

WHEN
30 June – 1 July 2025

DIFFICULTY
EASY. NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE IS NEEDED. YOU MUST BE ABLE TO WALK in the forest.


 

✨ Highlights ✨

  • To watch and photograph wolverines and bears in the wild. Never guaranteed, but chances are as good as they can be!

  • Go for a walk in a pristine forest and learn about wolverines and bears.

  • Meet our guide and like-minded adventurers who share your love for nature and discovery.

 
 
 

booking for this secret adventure is now closed

If you are interested in joining one of our unique Secret Adventures, discover the unknown, connect with fellow nature lovers, and create unforgettable memories while helping protect these special places you can sign up here

We’ll send you an invite whenever a new adventure is ready!

🛡Full financial protection: Your money is safe. Every booking is fully financially protected.

🛟 See our cancellation terms

 
 

1 night in the wild

We’re not going to reveal the exact program until you arrive, but expect a program looking something like this…

  • We meet up in Ljusdal and travel to a forest where we go for a hike and eat a packed lunch.

    Your guide will talk about wolverines, bears and other inhabitants of the forest.

    We then take you to a secret location for a welcome dinner. We then go for a short boat ride to a floating hide where we will spend the night watching for wolverines and bears.

    We take turns watching and sleeping to maximize our chances.

  • We get up early and spend the early morning hours watching for wolverines and bears before we return to the lodge.

    We conclude the experience over breakfast and go for a walk in the surroundings before we return to Ljusdal for trains.

 

Accommodation & guides

This is one of the floating photo hides where we will spend the night watching for wolverines and bears! There are two hides next to each other that we will share. There are simple beds and separate toilets attached to each of the hides. Photo: Marcus Westberg

Marco has created the perfect setup for watching bears and wolverines. As our host, he’ll share stories about his work in wolverine and bear research.

Your guide for this trip is Zsombor, a keen birder and wildlife fan. He will share tips on capturing photos of wildlife whether you're using a professional camera or your phone.

 

Location and how to get here

Meeting point: We meet at Ljusdal station at 11.15. >> Link to Google Maps. If you travel from Stockholm you can take a train at 07.55 which arrives in Ljusdal at 11.13.

At the end of the adventure we take you back to Ljusdal station at 12 noon.

Get your train tickets from sj.se in advance.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • Friendly, English-speaking guides who are passionate about wildlife, and love the outdoors.

  • Accommodation: 1 night in a shared cabin floating at a lake. You will sleep on comfy mattresses. We provide pillows and sleeping bags.

  • Meals: Simple but tasty meals. Lunch in the forest, dinner at the lodge, night snacks in the hide and breakfast at the lodge. Let us know if you have any dietary requirements.

What to bring

>> See our general packing list for Summer trips.

FOR WHO?

Who wouldn’t want the chance to see a wolverine in the wild? This trip is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.

  • Join a small, friendly group of like-minded nature lovers. Share stories, exchange experiences, and build lasting friendships in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

  • Our expert guides know the area inside out and are passionate about wildlife conservation. They’ll share fascinating insights about the flora, fauna, and efforts to protect Sweden’s forests.

  • By joining this adventure, you’re helping support local communities and our mission to preserve Sweden’s forests.

Recommended minimum age: 15 years.


Questions & Answers

  • There’s a good chance of spotting wolverines, and bears are also active in this area. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, this location is carefully chosen to maximize opportunities.

  • We might also spot foxes, badgers, squirrels, and various birds.

  • Yes! With Thomas, an experienced wildlife photographer, as your guide, you’ll get tips on using SLR cameras, digital cameras, and even phones to capture stunning wildlife shots.

  • No, both animals are shy and avoid humans. And we will be watching them from a floating hide, so we will be completely safe.

  • You will just need to walk a short distance through the forest, so the trip is suitable for most people.

  • Waterproof clothing and sturdy boots. We provide binoculars and pillows in the hide and you can rent a sleeping bag if you don’t have your own.

  • Yes, there will be connection but you must keep phones on silent to avoid disturbing wildlife.

  • It’s recommended for ages 15 and up due to the need to be quiet for long hours.

  • We will be maximum 8 participants.

Autumn Bear Expedition – A Secret Adventure

This is your invitation to our Secret Adventure

Our Secret Adventures are designed to protect hidden places that can only welcome a few visitors each year. That’s why we won’t reveal the exact location online—and we kindly ask you not to share it afterwards either.

 

Max group size
Up to 14 persons

Meeting location
Sveg, Sweden

Duration
4 Days / 3 night

Kid friendly?
From 15 years

ACCOMMODATION
1 night in shared cabins + 2 nights in tent

WHEN
6-9 October 2025

DIFFICULTY
You must have some previous hiking experience, be able to carry your backpack and enjoy wild camping. A DECENT LEVEL OF GENERAL FITNESS IS REQUIRED.


✨ Highlights ✨

A large Brown Bear that we saw during our 2024 trip. Captured by participant Markus Adolfsson.

Gina watching for bears through her binoculars.

Lunch break in the lush mountains.

Here we're hiking up the mountains.

The coffee breaks are important.

 
 

The booking for this secret adventure is now closed

If you are interested in joining this unique Autumn Bear Expedition in 2026 — discover the unknown, connect with fellow nature lovers, and create unforgettable memories while helping protect these special place just let us know by contacting Gina directly.

🛡Full financial protection: Your money is safe. Every booking is fully financially protected.

🛟 See our cancellation terms

 
 

The plan

Here’s a glimpse of what your days might look like…

  • We will take you to a secret location where you will meet up with the others for a welcome dinner. We present the plan and then hang out by the fire until late. Night in shared cabins.

  • We will hike for a few kilometers to a location that has proven ideal for bear watching at this season. Here we set up camp and watch for bears. When it becomes dark we gather around the campfire and share a meal together.

    Night in tents.

  • This day will be fully dedicated to bear watching, using binoculars and spotting scopes while relaxing and having fun in nature.

    Night in tents.

  • We watch for bears half of the day and then walk back to the lodge where we will be treated with a hearty lunch and perhaps even a well deserved beer.

    Showers before we return to civilization.

 

Accommodation & guides

You’ll stay one night in cozy shared cabins and two nights wild camping under the stars.

Rutger, our local guide and tracker who know the terrain like the back of his hand.

Simon, our tour leader, has years of experience tracking and observing wildlife.

 

Location and how to get here

Meeting point: Sveg at 13:15 pm, an easy 6 hour and 20 minutes train + bus journey from Stockholm or Arlanda airport. It may sound like a long trip, but it will be wort it! >> Link to Google Maps

At the end of the adventure we take you back to Sveg station at 3 pm where you will have some options for buses and trains.

Get your tickets at www.sj.se. They usually release tickets about three months in advance.

🚙 If you are arriving by car, please let us know and we will send you the exact location where we will meet.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 3 days with local wildlife guides

  • Wildlife watching and tracking activities

  • One night in a cozy cabin, bed linen and towel included. Shared cabins with bunk-beds.

  • Two nights wild camping

  • All meals from lunch day 1 to lunch day 4

  • Coffee, tea, and snacks

  • Transport from Sveg and back

  • Headlamp, rain poncho, seat pad, binoculars and gas kitchen.

  • Camping equipment available for rent (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, backpack)

What to bring

See our packing list for Autumn Bear Expedition here. You also have to bring a backpack, tent, sleeping bag and insulation mat. You can rent this equipment from us, but please note that you will need to carry all of your own and the rented gear.

FOR WHO?

Are you a passionate nature lover seeking a wildlife adventure that is real? Then this tour is for you. Let us show you why this is the trip you've been longing for.

Wildlife watching - in their natural habitat: Imagine spending hours in the heart of nature, eagerly waiting for a glimpse of wildlife alongside fellow enthusiasts. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the thrill is in the journey - the quiet anticipation, the shared excitement, and the unforgettable moments that unfold, whether we spot animals or simply enjoy the beauty of the wild. Each moment spent in silence, waiting, and watching deepens our connection with the natural world. Every second spent in nature is a chance for something amazing to happen!

Small groups, big connections: Picture yourself in the company of a small, intimate group of like-minded individuals who share your love for wildlife and nature. Our tours are designed to bring together a community of nature enthusiasts, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere where lasting connections are forged. You'll have the opportunity to exchange stories, learn from each other's experiences, and build cherished friendships that will endure long after the tour ends.

Friendly local guides: Our dedicated team of local guides is passionate about wildlife conservation and knows the area well. Our tour leader will be your companions throughout the trip, sharing their knowledge and providing insightful commentary on the flora, fauna, and conservation efforts in the area. Prepare for engaging discussions, fascinating insights, and the chance to expand your understanding of the captivating wildlife that surrounds us.

Nature calls – no bathrooms, no problem: Out in the mountains, there are no traditional toilets, just nature in all its glory. When the time comes, you'll be doing your business the wild way. But don't worry, your guide will give a quick and friendly briefing at the start of the tour on how to handle it all with care for nature and dignity intact. It's simpler than you think, and believe it or not – it quickly becomes just another part of the adventure!

Supporting the forest: At our core, we believe in making a positive impact. By choosing our tour, you actively support our local community and our struggle to save Sweden’s forests.

  • Recommended minimum age 15 years.

  • We will walk in rough terrain off-trail where it may be rocky, mossy, wet and slippery, even in darkness with headlamps. These walks are slow with stops along the way and rarely last for more than an hour at a time. Please only sign up for this adventure if you think you will be fit enough for these walks.

  • This tour is not specifically adapted for photographing wildlife, although there will be plenty of opportunities to photograph the natural wonders that we may see.

The hike

The pictures below show the approximate distance in kilometers and the elevation from the starting point to our base camp. We’ll be hiking with our backpacks and full gear, which will be an exciting challenge! The hike will be at a steady pace with a few breaks along the way, ensuring you can enjoy the journey. Please sign up only if you feel confident in your fitness level, as the hike will be challenging but rewarding. This is an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss. We’ll be there to support each other every step of the way!

Once we reach the base camp, you’ll have the chance to leave the majority of the gear in the tent while we go on our hike to a peak and strategic location to watch for wildlife. Each participant will need to bring and carry their own backpack on these hikes as well, including warm clothing, water to drink and snacks. The daily hikes are not very long, 1 km round trip with an elevation gain of about 40 meters from basecamp.

How much hiking?

The pictures shows the approximate distance in kilometers and the elevation from the starting point to our base camp.

 

Questions & Answers

  • Bears live in the area and are active during autumn, but sightings are never guaranteed. Patience, good timing, and luck all play a part.

  • We hike slowly through rough, uneven terrain. You need decent fitness and should feel comfortable carrying your own backpack with camping gear.

  • Yes, but you can rent a tent, sleeping bag, insulation mat and backpack from us if you don’t have your own.

  • Autumn can bring anything from sunny days to chilly, foggy or rainly nights. Good outdoor clothing is essential.

  • It’s not a dedicated photo tour, but you’ll have many chances to capture nature, landscapes and wildlife.

  • Up to 14 people, small enough for a personal and low-impact experience.

  • Yes! It’s an easy train and bus journey from Stockholm or Arlanda Airport. We'll send travel tips when you book.

  • Yes. We keep the exact spot hidden to protect the wildlife and the land. You’ll find out when you meet us in Sveg!