Fjellborg Arctic Lodge

This family-run lodge is a cozy Arctic retreat that is great for families who want to dog-sled, snowmobile and engage in winter adventures.

• The 120 resident Alaskan huskies
• The luxurious, four-bedroom Master Cabin, which is perfect for a family
• The rustic restaurant where guests can enjoy gourmet meals of moose meatballs with gravy and lingonberry sauce on reindeer hide–covered benches

Upon arrival at Kiruna Airport, guests of Fjellborg Arctic Lodge are greeted by a team of panting Alaskan huskies, who escort them by sled to the hotel, located about an hour away. Once there, guests are welcomed by owners Kent and Ann Fjellborg and settle in in front of a bonfire with a mug of warm lingonberry juice.

A well-known Kiruna family, the Fjellborgs own 120 Alaskan huskies and have been in the dog-sledding industry for 25 years. This experience is a unique attraction for their hotel, which offers the activity to guests from mid-November through April. A traditional method of transportation in the Arctic, dog-sledding is not just an experience for animal lovers, but for all travelers who enjoy exploring the outdoors. The mushers have years of experience, and Kent and Anna’s daughter—who is currently training her own team of dogs—occasionally guides tours of her own.

The lodgings at Fjellborg are pampering retreats. Built in 2013, the four-bedroom master cabin is the most luxurious accommodation and features reindeer hide–covered benches, old wooden skis and sleds, a bear-skin rug, mounted moose antlers and candle lit lanterns (note that three rooms have bunk beds). The mountain retreat has a modern aesthetic while still retaining a sense of place. The cabin also has a spacious living room with a wood-burning fireplace, sauna and outdoor Jacuzzi. Fjellborg’s six other cabins are very rustic in comparison, each with two compact bedrooms with bunk beds and a little sitting area, and require a short walk to access the heated bathrooms.

Guests have the option of dining in their cabin or the main restaurant, where hearty yet gourmet meals are served. The cozy, candlelit dining room has long picnic tables with benches covered in reindeer hides and a fireplace that is always roaring.

Families and couples who want a true Arctic experience—complete with dog-sledding, snowmobiling and snowshoeing—and to stay in very comfortable lodgings.