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Where to Stay in Abisko

Where to Stay in Abisko

Abisko Norrland, Sweden Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Lodging Categories

  • Hostels/Mountain Huts

    STF Abisko Turiststation is the main provider, with dormitories and private rooms. STF also maintains mountain huts along the Kungsleden trail, basic lodging for multi-day trekkers. These huts warrant advance booking, especially during peak hiking periods.

  • Hotels/Lodges

    Abisko Mountain Lodge offers a more hotel-like experience. It features private rooms and cabins with increased comfort and often includes restaurant services.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Private vacation rentals in Abisko Östra are very limited. Listings exist on platforms like Vrbo, but selection remains scarce.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism Opportunities

    These are not common offerings in Abisko due to its small, tourism-focused community structure.

Outdoor Lodging

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Abisko National Park contains designated camping areas with limited facilities. Adhere to park rules when camping.

  • Wild Camping

    Wild camping is permissible in some areas outside the national park, adhering to Swedish "Allemansrätten" (right to roam) principles. These principles emphasize not disturbing nature or private property and leaving no trace.

  • Cabins

    Some lodges, including STF Abisko Turiststation, present private cabins that create a comfortable, self-contained lodging experience. These often include kitchenettes.

  • House/Pet Sitting

    Platforms such as TrustedHousesitters facilitate house and pet sitting opportunities, though availability can be niche.

Neighborhood Guide

Abisko mainly has two main areas for visitors.

Abisko Turiststation Area

Character & Benefits
  • Hub for outdoor pursuits, scientific research, and Northern Lights viewing.
  • Directly at the Abisko National Park entrance.
  • Close to the Aurora Sky Station chairlift and Naturum visitor center.
  • Most tour operators for activities depart from here.
  • Features its own convenient train station.
Drawbacks
  • May feel busy during peak season.
  • Lacks a local village feel, as it functions mainly as a tourist facility.

Abisko Östra Village

Character & Benefits
  • Small, quiet village with scattered houses and a small supermarket.
  • Features the Abisko Östra train station.
  • Quieter, presenting a glimpse into local life.
  • Accommodation here can sometimes present more affordable rates.
  • Contains the only small grocery store in Abisko.
Drawbacks
  • Further from the main national park attractions (a 2-3 km walk or short train ride to Turiststation).
  • Fewer amenities and tour operators directly accessible from this area.

Area Considerations

Safety & Proximity
  • Both areas are extremely safe; crime is virtually non-existent.
  • Abisko Turiststation: Directly at the park entrance, with its own train station.
  • Abisko Östra: The main village, with its own train station, 2-3 km from the park entrance.
Noise & Ambiance
  • Turiststation: More activity noise, especially in common areas during peak season.
  • Östra: Generally very quiet, presenting a peaceful atmosphere.

Safety Note

Main Safety Considerations

Your main safety considerations pertain to the weather and outdoor conditions, not local crime.

Inter-Area Travel

You can walk or take the infrequent train between Abisko Turiststation and Abisko Östra.

Booking Strategies

Securing accommodation in Abisko often warrants careful planning.

Booking Recommendations

  • Advance booking is a necessity, notably for winter (Northern Lights season) and peak summer (hiking season). Popular accommodation and tours sell out quickly.
  • Book accommodation and popular tours 6-12 months ahead when possible. Less popular times, like May or November, permit shorter notice.
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates does not apply in Abisko. Prices are fixed.
  • Prices are considerably higher during high seasons (winter, peak summer) and Swedish holidays. Travel during shoulder or low seasons for more budget-friendly rates.

Booking Platforms & Policies

  • For STF Abisko Turiststation, book directly via STF's website for optimal availability and membership discounts.
  • For Abisko Mountain Lodge, book directly via their Website. For private rentals, Vrbo may feature listings. General platforms like Booking.com and Agoda include some options.
  • Deposit and cancellation policies differ by accommodation provider. Review terms carefully before booking. STF typically has standard cancellation policies, but verify for your specific reservation.
  • Consider IHG Hotels for other larger hotel chains outside of Abisko, but within the region. For budget-friendly dorms, Hostelworld lists options globally.

Additional Booking Pointers

Peak Season Booking
  • Popular accommodation and tours during winter (Northern Lights season) and peak summer (hiking season) frequently sell out.
  • Try to reserve 6-12 months ahead for popular periods.
  • Lesser-known months like May or November may permit shorter notice bookings.
Direct vs. Platform Booking
  • Direct booking with STF or Abisko Mountain Lodge often secures the most current availability.
  • Platforms like Booking.com and Agoda present some listings, but direct contact can confirm exact details for these smaller, remote properties.

Important Note on Pricing

Seasonal Fluctuations

Expect significantly higher prices during high seasons (winter, peak summer) and Swedish holidays.

Budget Travel

For more budget-friendly rates, plan your visit during shoulder seasons or low seasons.

Fixed Rates

Accommodation prices in Abisko are fixed and are not subject to negotiation for walk-in rates.

Accommodation Recommendations

A table summarizing accommodation options.

STF Abisko Turiststation

Type & Location

Hostel/Hotel/Cabins, located directly at Abisko National Park.

  • Price Range: 300-600 SEK/night (dorm)
  • Offers dorms, private rooms, and cabins.
Pros & Cons

Directly at park entrance, near Aurora Sky Station. Features a restaurant, shop, sauna, and communal kitchens. A central hub for tours and activities, ideal for meeting other travelers.

  • Pros: Central, communal facilities, tour hub.
  • Cons: Can be very busy, less intimate during peak season.

Abisko Mountain Lodge

Type & Location

Lodge/Hotel, located in Abisko Östra.

  • Price Range: 1500-3000 SEK/night (private room)
  • More boutique feel with an excellent restaurant.
Pros & Cons

Closer to Abisko Östra village amenities like the small supermarket. Organizes its own tours. Has a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

  • Pros: Boutique feel, excellent restaurant, intimate.
  • Cons: Further from park entrance (2-3 km walk), limited room options.

Abisko Guesthouse

  • Type & Location

    Guesthouse/Hostel, situated in Abisko Östra.

  • Price Range

    500-1000 SEK/night (private room).

  • Pros

    Offers a budget-friendly choice in Abisko Östra. Often includes breakfast. Good for independent travelers seeking a simpler, quieter stay.

  • Cons

    Basic facilities. Not as close to the main park attractions or tour departure points. Limited services on-site compared to larger lodges.

Specific Traveler Recommendations

  • Family-Friendly Options

    Both STF Abisko Turiststation and Abisko Mountain Lodge provide family rooms or cabins. STF has more communal facilities suitable for families, including kitchens for self-catering.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    STF Abisko Turiststation dorms are ideal for solo travelers. They represent a budget-friendly choice and create opportunities to meet other travelers in shared spaces.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    STF Abisko Turiststation features communal kitchens, making longer self-catering stays feasible and more affordable. This serves as a good choice for researchers or those planning extended hiking trips.

  • Cultural Significance

    STF Abisko Turiststation is a long history as a mountain station. It served early explorers and tourists in the Arctic. This establishes it as a place with a distinct legacy.

Additional Accommodation Tips

Explore All Platforms

While direct booking is often best for specific lodges, check global platforms like Booking.com or Agoda for broader options or unique deals.

Specialized Stays

For a unique and cost-effective stay, investigate house-sitting opportunities through platforms like TrustedHousesitters.

  • This approach may fit longer visits or those seeking a local experience.
  • Availability may be sporadic for specific dates.

General Booking Advice

Review Policies

Always carefully review deposit and cancellation policies, as they vary by provider.

Seasonal Pricing

Expect higher prices during peak seasons. Off-peak travel generally has better value.

Fixed Prices

Prices are non-negotiable; walk-in rates are not discounted.