The Sea Ice Marathon is nothing like pounding asphalt or looping around a stadium. Here, you run across the frozen bay of Luleå together with participants from all over the world. Go for the full 42-kilometre marathon if you want the ultimate challenge – or choose one of the shorter distances. Unique and utterly unforgettable.
Rows of loaner sparks (kick sleds) are lined up and waiting – completely free to use. The spark is a true northern classic: light, fast and far more fun than most people expect. Let a friend hop onto the seat, push off and feel how you glide effortlessly across the ice. When you’re done, simply park it at one of the designated spark racks along the track.
When darkness falls, the ice track becomes a perfect viewing spot. There are no streetlights here, giving you an almost untouched view of the sky. Moonlight, silence, the creak of ice and a green curtain sweeping overhead – you won’t find a better evening walk.
Photo: Ida Lundh, Luleå kommunThe little island of Gråsjälören is one of Luleå’s classic winter hideaways. When the flag is raised, the waffle café is open – and yes, they taste even better after a trip across the ice. When the café is closed, there are still fire pits, wind shelters and firewood available, perfect for your own winter picnic.
In Norra Hamn you’ll find a frozen-in sauna raft with its own ice hole, and on the opposite side of town is the cold-bathing association’s facility. Sauna followed by an icy plunge is a magical combination that gets your blood racing and your mind instantly clear. It’s tough and wonderful at the same time – and you’ll definitely talk about it afterwards. When you’re in Sweden’s cold-bath capital, Luleå, an ice bath is a must.
Central Luleå is made for skating. Here you’ll find well-maintained natural ice measured and cared for by the municipality. Borrow long-distance skates or glide around on your regular pair – both work just fine. From the ice, you’ll see the city from a completely new angle. In February, you can even join the skating race during the Luleå on Ice festival. And if you’d rather walk, there’s a dedicated snow-covered walking lane along the edge of the track.
At the end of February, Luleå on Ice takes over the city, attracting thousands of locals and visitors. Over several days, Södra Hamn is filled with activities, food, exhibitors and outdoor fun – and out on the ice you’ll find everything from hockey games to the official World Championship in snowball fighting.
Outdoor grilling is a winter staple. Along the ice track you’ll find several fire pits with wind shelters and stocked firewood. Sausages, reindeer meat or marshmallows – everything tastes better outdoors, especially out on the frozen sea.
When you’ve finished your day on the ice, step straight into one of Luleå’s top restaurants just a stone’s throw away. Hemmagastronomi, CG, Osteria, Bistron, The Social Bar & Bistro and Nine are all close enough to reach without ever leaving the waterfront – a warm ending to a cold day.
Fishing isn’t allowed on the ice track, but you can fish right beside it. The bay of Stadsfjärden is known for excellent perch, and with a bit of luck you might also catch whitefish. A thermos of coffee and the occasional tug on the line – that’s what we call Arctic luxury.
