Winter Wildlife Watching Trip in Sweden

Prepare to immerse yourself in a winter adventure that promises both awe-inspiring wildlife encounters and the cosy comforts of a traditional Swedish farmhouse. As you step into this winter wonderland you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable ecologist-guide with 15 years of experience in this area. His experience will unlock the secrets of the tranquil wilderness of the boreal forest zone of Sweden, only a couple of hours away from Stockholm.

Winter sunset

Over the 7 days, you will explore the atmospheric landscapes set in below-zero temperatures, but, with the benefit of over 10 hours of daylight at this time of year, you’ll have ample time to savour every moment of this unique journey.

The conditions are ideal for tracking elusive wildlife such as elk, lynx, wolf, and capercaillie, leaving traces of their presence in the wintry landscape. The absence of biting insects at this time of year enhances your connection with the wild.

Elk (Alces alces)

Resident birds which we may see include over six species each of woodpeckers, owls, tits, and finches. This season also welcomes special guests from further north, including captivating winter visitors like waxwings, great grey shrike, and the rare hawk owl.

This journey to Sweden in winter promises an unparalleled experience that will undoubtedly leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Dates

Sunday 18th February to Sunday 25th February

Accommodation

Your accommodation reflects the essence of Sweden, as you reside in spacious twin rooms (single room available at additional cost of £50) within a traditional wooden farmhouse, where warmth and comfort meld seamlessly with the surrounding nature. The farmhouse is next to the Black River – home to beavers, cranes, white-tailed eagles and more. While the main meals are delicious vegan dishes prepared by an experienced chef, alternatives for breakfast and packed lunches cater to varied preferences.  Vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free catered for.

Daily excursions

Daily excursions are aboard a 9-seater Land Rover providing access to places normal vehicles don’t venture into at this time of year. The walks, typically 5km or less, are suitable for varying fitness levels, although a good general level of fitness is recommended due to the wintry terrain. If conditions are suitable a canoe trip can be arranged (£35 extra payable out there).

Lynx footprint

Transfers

Transfers are included from the local rail/bus terminal at Västerås which is just 40 minutes from the accommodation, and accessible via regular train/bus connections from both Stockholm Arlanda airport and Stockholm central station. There are also direct flights to Västerås from Stansted with Ryan Air and there will be a pick-up from here as well.

Your guide

Your guide for the week – Stefan Taylor, an ecologist, birder and experienced guide, has lived in the area for a number of years and knows the best places to go. He is very knowledgeable, easy-going and friendly.

What’s included

Included in the price:

• Transfers from Västerås train station or airport to the accommodation
• Accommodation in twin room (single supplement of £50)
• All meals.
• Transport to locations during the stay.

What’s not included

You will need to book a flight to Stockholm Arlanda from London Heathrow, Gatwick or Stanstead then a train from Stockholm to Västerås train/bus terminal around 90 minutes away – pick-up will be from Västerås.

If conditions are suitable an optional canoe trip will be available at £35.

Testimonial (summer trip to Sweden 2023)

Here is one person’s testimonial from the trip in 2023:

“This trip to Sweden has been the best trip I’ve had. Sweden is such an incredible place to visit and exceeded my expectations. Stefan was a very knowledgeable guide and catered to everyone’s needs, ensuring we saw a variety of species, including over 100 bird species and several mammal species, including elk, beaver, wild boar & red squirrel and reptiles including my first ever adder! We also had plenty of down time to relax and  I particularly enjoyed sitting on the balcony watching a Montague’s Harrier and White Tailed Eagle hunting in the fields opposite.

What really made this week special were the fabulous group of people I was with, like minded people, who I feel I have learnt so much from. In many ways I feel like this trip has been life changing. I hope the people I shared the experience with will remain life-long friends.”

You might like to read our BLOG about the Summer 2023 trip.

Price

Max group size 9 (includes leader and chef)
Cost £1300 (excludes flights, transfers between Västerås and Stockholm).

If paying in full you can book directly on the website.

We are able to offer an instalment option for this course. You would need to pay a £250 deposit followed monthly instalments so that the total is paid by 1st February 2024. If you would like to look at this option then please get in contact with us and we can get this set up. [email protected].