If you dream of immersion authentic in Swedish Lapland, far from mass tourism and standardized stays, we warmly recommend Lev Naturanda.
This haven of peace, founded by Nancy and Mario, a couple from Germany, is located about twenty minutes from Norsjö, a small town in the county of VästerbottenIf you already know Sweden, this name may remind you of the famous eponymous cheese, one more reason to come and discover the region!
Because finding off-the-beaten-path destinations can be a challenge when traveling so far from home, we share our experience here at Lev NaturandaWe hope it will make you want to pack your bags and go meet them!
Where is Lev Naturanda located?
Some landmarks to better visualize the region:
- Lev Naturanda is 20 minutes from Norsjö, about an hour from Skellefteå and Lycksele, and just over two hours fromUmeå, the regional capital.
- Västerbotten is a huge county where the nature reigns supreme: dense forests, rolling landscapes, sparkling rivers, and a low population density which reinforces its wild and preserved aspect.
- It is part of the territory of the Sami, indigenous people reindeer herder, whose traditions and festivals still punctuate local life.
- Lev Naturanda is nestled on the edge of a 10 km lake, offering an exceptional playground in summer (boat trips, fishing) as well as in winter (ice hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating).
How to get to Lev Naturanda?
If you are exploring Sweden in road trip, Lev Naturanda will easily fit into your itinerary.
Without a vehicle, you can also take a plane and land in the airports from Umeå or Skellefteå, which are served by regular flights from StockholmNancy and Mario offer to pick you up by van at the airport.
Le train is also an option: the Swedish railway company SJ can drop you off at one of the stations in the region (including in the cities mentioned above). Go to their website to find the ticket that suits you.
Where to stay in Swedish Lapland? Lev Naturanda accommodations
The Stuga (4 people)
The Stugas are these charming little ones red houses emblematic of Sweden. That of Lev Naturanda can accommodate up to 4 people and has a beautiful solid wood bunk bed (double bed on top and bottom).
The space is optimized with a living/dining area, a well-equipped kitchenette (mini-oven, egg cooker, no stovetop), and a chemical toilet. Running water is not available in the Stuga, but a container is provided. For showers, the hosts will advise you of the available options.
We loved this Stuga, cozy, tastefully decorated and absolutely charming. We immediately feel good there!
The Stone House (6 to 8 people)
Ideal for groups or families, this stone house offers all modern comforts: fitted kitchen, warm living room with fireplace, full bathroom and spacious bedrooms. Set back from other accommodation, it guarantees calm and privacy.
Tipi tents (3 people per tent)
If you like the unusual accommodation, opt for teepee tents!
Each tent has a double and a single bed, a wood-burning stove, and a gas heater to ensure your comfort even in winter. We slept here in March, with freezing temperatures outside, but we had very hot thanks to the sleeping bags provided and the animal skins covering the beds.
The tents have theelectricity but no running water or toilets. Nancy and Mario will explain everything to you upon your arrival.
The Car Park
Travelers in van, camper van or converted van are welcome!
Lev Naturanda provides a dedicated space, with the possibility of enjoying the enchanting setting and on-site infrastructure.
PS: The pets are welcome on-site, whatever your accommodation. Freyja was welcomed like a queen and even made a friend: our hosts' adorable dog! Nancy and Mario make sure that each four-legged friend feels as comfortable as their humans.
What activities can you do in Swedish Lapland at Lev Naturanda?
On site
Without leaving the estate, you can enjoy numerous activities:
- Hot tub outdoors, with a breathtaking view of the stars and perhaps the Northern Lights in winter!
- Swedish sauna, perfect after a day in the cold.
- Cold bath in the lake, for the courageous fans of thermotherapy!
- Grillkata, a wooden cabin inspired by traditional Sámi dwellings, where everyone can gather around a fire, grill food and share a friendly evening.
- Frozen lake in winter, ideal for hiking, ice fishing and soon skating, hockey and curling activities.
- Lake in summer, perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing and boating.
- Walks in the forest, wild berry picking and immersion in Swedish nature.
With the partners of Lev Naturanda
To further explore Swedish Lapland, Nancy and Mario collaborate with passionate local guides to offer unique experiences.
- Sled dogs at Paws of Björnlund : glide over 24 km (more or less depending on your wishes) of snowy landscapes, guided by a pack of trained dogs and passionate mushers. A magical and immersive adventure that we loved!
- Snowmobile excursion with Svansele Vildmark : guaranteed thrills during a motorized hike through the snowy landscapes, followed by a wood-fired meals in a wild restaurant. You can taste local specialities like game or fish (the salmon was to die for), prepared by Erik, our talented snowmobile guide and chef.
- Visit of the Swedish Wildlife Museum : an amazing exhibition featuring Sweden's iconic animals. An opportunity to learn more about local biodiversity!
- Meeting with Börje, a Sámi reindeer herder : a very emotional moment alongside this man who perpetuates the tradition ofreindeer herding. The opportunity to learn more about Sámi culture and their deep connection with nature.
Fromother activities are possible depending on the season: horse riding, mountain biking, quad biking... Just ask Nancy and Mario who will be happy to advise you!
We left Lev Naturanda with incredible memories: immersive activities in the great outdoors, but also simple evenings by the fire, chatting with other travelers and sharing culinary specialties from each other's countries.
Because travel is also about encounters, we invite you to discover more about Nancy and Mario in the interview we dedicated to them.
If you go to their place, tell them that you come from us, and above all, share your experience with us !
