Paddling in Norrbotten

Norrbotten is the landscape of magnitude – from the Luleå archipelago, one of the world’s few fragmentary archipelagoes, to the powerful rivers Lule, Kalix and Torne that flows from the mountains towards Bottenviken.

At the coast, the Luleå archipelago spreads out with over a thousand islands in fragile, almost sweet water – an unusual archipelago type with sandy beaches, dense forests all the way out to the islands and long light summer nights.Luleåand paddles out among the gardens when it suits you.

Inland and north, the big rivers dominate. Kalix River and Torne River belong to Europe's last free-streaming big rivers, while the mountain world of Kiruna and Jokkmokk municipalities accommodate classic wilderness waters.The landscape is huge and sparsely populated – paddling here requires perception, but rewards with a wide range of other places can offer.

Season

The paddle season is short, mainly June–August, with midnight sun that provides bright nights.The water is cold, the coast and rivers weather-prone and distances large – plan carefully, wear clothes for cold and always wear the life jacket.

FAQ

Where to rent kayak in Norrbotten?

Among other things, unmanned in Luleå (Kayakomat), where you book online and download kayak and SUP yourself to paddle out into the archipelago.

What is the Luleå archipelago?

It is one of the world’s few archipelagoes in brackish, almost sweet water, with sandy beaches and forests all the way out to the islands.The land elevation constantly shapes new grounds and holms.The water is cold even in summer – then dress up.