A Fashion Editor’s Handbook for Swedish Lapland: Recommended Accommodations, Dining Options, and Outfit Suggestions

      Welcome to Out of Office… Who What Wear UK's elegant travel guide that delivers the most stylish insights on various destinations by consulting creatives who are well-versed in where to stay, what to eat, and, most importantly, what to pack. This month, editor Rebecca Rhys-Evans shares her advice for an unforgettable trip to Northern Sweden. I understand that at this time of year, many are relieved to bid winter farewell. Warmer days, lighter clothing, holidays! Garden gatherings! There is so much to cherish about spring. Yet, at the age of 32, I've unlocked the secret to truly enjoying winter, and it’s straightforward: winter getaways. By this, I don’t mean escaping to sunny spots in February like Mexico or the Caribbean. I mean exploring places that celebrate the cold and all the joys of the season. Picture snowy vistas, cozy cabins with crackling fires, winter sports, ice activities, and Nordic dishes. Nothing compares to this experience for changing your perspective on the months between January and March. In other words, don’t waste time longing for spring; appreciate these quieter, cooler months for what they are.

      I had this enlightening realization during an exceptional trip to Sweden in January with Volvo. They invited me to experience their latest model, the EX90, a stunning electric vehicle that performs as beautifully as it looks, even on snowy roads and with me behind the wheel. During this brief getaway, I discovered much more than just driving an electric car (more on that later); I experienced a true winter wonderland, in a location I might not have visited otherwise.

      This was my first trip to Sweden, despite having Swedish ancestry and a long-time desire to visit. I always assumed my first journey would be to Stockholm or Gothenburg—the hubs of Acne Studios, IKEA, H&M—brands integral to my life and style. I had never really considered Northern Sweden—specifically Harads—located in Swedish Lapland, right on the edge of the Arctic Circle, known for the Northern Lights and numerous reindeer.

      Here, I was able to fully immerse myself in nature, disconnecting in a way I hadn’t since before the internet (literally!), and savor an authentic Swedish menu filled with traditional dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients. The accommodation was also extraordinary! Individual cabins built on a vast arctic lake, frozen at this time of year, provided a view of pure white tranquility, with only the sounds of ice shifting at night. So, if you’re one of those wishing for spring, allow me to reshape your view of winter. Let me introduce you to the stunning experience of Northern Sweden in January, complete with my recommendations on where to stay, what to eat, what to do, and of course, what to drive (spoiler: it’s a Volvo EX90).

      I enjoyed a stay at Arctic Bath, a small luxury hotel and spa renowned for its location on the Lule River in Swedish Lapland and its impressive cold bath. The main hotel centre houses the restaurant, spa, and a modest reception area, while guest accommodations consist of individual cabins that are contemporary, cozy, and most importantly, comfortable. Whether it’s the log burners in each room or the large window above the bed for enjoying the view, every detail is designed for ultimate relaxation and enjoyment. Each season offers a unique experience; in summer you can swim in the river outside your cabins, but even in colder months, the well-equipped spa—with a sauna, steam room, hot tub, and the daring cold bath—offers plenty of activities.

      Driving a Volvo in Sweden is akin to riding a Vespa in Rome; it simply makes sense. This was my first experience driving an electric car, and it was quite remarkable. The EX90 is Volvo’s premium fully electric 7-seater SUV. You might think that navigating snowy and icy conditions would be stressful, but not in the EX90—it feels so solid and safe. Once you become familiar with the car and its features, it’s quite user-friendly. Most importantly, it’s a joy to drive. With a range of up to 375 miles, a quick 30-minute charge, and packed with gadgets (think 5G Wi-Fi, built-in Google, and a powerful Dolby Atmos sound system through Bowers & Wilkins speakers), it’s equipped with innovative radars and cameras, making it arguably the safest vehicle on the road. Volvo demonstrated the car’s security and speed on an ice track, where I test-drove it even on the toughest terrains and under challenging conditions. I can assure you, I felt in complete control the entire time!

      Arctic Bath’s restaurant is exceptional for local Nordic cuisine, with each dish crafted with thought and creativity. If you eat meat, trying reindeer is essential; it’s the most popular local meat in Northern Sweden and truly delicious! Other regional specialties include honey, wild-caught fish, various game meats, and foraged herbs and berries, all