Heliski in Arctic Sweden
Sweden is not normally a country that springs to mind when you think of heli skiing. Despite being relatively low in terms of elevation, the mountains in Arctic Sweden maintain reliable snow and cold temperatures and there can be good powder skiing right through until the end of May. With some runs ending at elevations of just 300 metres, descents of 1,000 vertical metres are the norm. A lack of daylight combined with biting-cold temperatures means that the heli ski season does not really get under way until March, running right through until early June. By mid May there is 24hrs of daylight allowing us to heli ski late into the night.
Having all this daylight to play with is a big advantage as it gives us the option to ski late into the evening taking advantage of weather windows that would not be possible in darkness.
If you are based in Europe and want to heli ski without traveling half way round the world, Sweden is both convenient and practical for either a week-long trip or an extended weekend. With a helicopter at your disposal, good skiing conditions can almost always be found. However, it would be unrealistic to expect the consistent levels of powder that the ranges in Canada or Russia receive. More realistic would be to expect a variety of different snow conditions ranging from excellent powder to spring snow. . . and everything in between.
Location
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Situated in the high-alpine area of Sweden's north, close to the border with Norway, and almost 400 km above the Arctic Circle, the ski resort of Riksgransen is one of the most northerly ski resorts in the world. With an elevation of 500 metres above sea level and ski lifts up to 900 metres it is not particularly high by European standards however; its high latitude makes for consistently good ski conditions even late into the spring.
Why Heli ski Here?
- Ease of access from Europe
- Good option for a long weekend from Europe
- Totally unrestricted heli ski area
- Heli ski under the midnight sun
- Small groups
- Good late season heli skiing (March to June)
- Outstanding food and wine
The Heli skiing and Heli boarding
With few summits over 1,800 metres, the peaks in the region are not particularly high but the runs are surprisingly long - averaging a respectable 1,000 vertical metres. The terrain is both interesting and varied with some nice steep pitches. However, there is no tree skiing, which can make days with limited visibility somewhat challenging. With its exposure to the wind and long hours of daylight, snow conditions can vary a lot from one area to another and from one part of the day to the next but with small groups the programme is both flexible and personal and overall this is a world class area in which to heli ski.
Accommodation & Facilities
The Hotel Meteorologen run by Patrik Stromsten and Robert Gustafsson offers the highest standard of accommodation in Riksgransen. With just fourteen small but well-appointed rooms the 'hotel' is relaxed, warm and friendly; and is the perfect place to unwind after a day's heli skiing the Arctic powder.
One of the highlights of staying at the Meteorologen is undoubtedly the influence of esteemed sommelier and restaurateur Patrik Stromsten who will ensure that sensational dining experiences are an integral part of your heliski adventure in Sweden's great white north.
Located within a few seconds walk is the main Riksgransen Hotel - the hub of resort activity. Here you will find the excellent spa complete with sauna, Jacuzzi, swimming pool and most importantly, a team of highly trained massage therapists to ease those ski-weary muscles. The hotel is also the centre for apres ski entertainment with a bar, restaurant and night club.
Helicopters & Safety
Helicopters are leased from one of northern Sweden's most reputable helicopter companies and are flown by pilots who are experienced operating in an arctic environment.
Without exception, all heli ski guides are seasoned professionals who have passed a series of comprehensives exams to qualify them as members of the U.I.A.G.M., the recognised International Mountain Guide Associations. They continuously monitor the weather and snow stability in an effort to balance maximum levels of safety with high quality heli skiing.
Our head guide and operations manager is Johan"Jossi" Lindblom a Swedish moutain guide. Jossi has been working in Riksgrasen since 1994 and has guided heli skiing and ski touring in the European Alps, Iran, Nepal and Russia to name a few.
2010 PRICES AND PACKAGES
We can customise heli ski packages to Sweden's north to almost any extent. If you would like to modify the trips listed below in any way, please give us a call on +44 (0)207 836 3547 or email us on info@eaheli.com
Arctic Odyssey
- This is our regular programme that has three groups of four or five heliskiers sharing the use of one helicopter.
- We offer both three and six day trips from April 01 to June 01
Cost per person €5,450 (7 nights) / €3,250 (4 nights)
Included:
- Meet & greet at Kiruna or Narvik Airport and return transfers to your hotel.
- Three or six possible days heli skiing including four or six hours of flying time per group.
- Four or seven nights full board accommodation (double occupancy).
- Professional guide service for the duration of your trip
- One-day lift pass for the resort if required.
Not Included:
- Pre & post heli skiing hotel nights if required
- Additional helicopter time (Charged at €2,000 per hour of flying time).
- Single occupancy (add €60 / night)
- Other activities (snowmobiling, dog sledding)
Sample Itinerary (7-night)
| Sunday: | Arrive Kiruna Airport in Sweden and transfer to your hotel in Riksgransen. |
| Monday - Saturday: | Heli skiing |
| Sunday: | Travel home. |
Sample Itinerary (4-night)
| Thursday: | Arrive Kiruna Airport in Sweden and transfer to your hotel in Riksgransen. |
| Friday - Sunday: | Heli skiing |
| Monday: | Travel home. |
Arctic Exclusive
- This trip is designed for those who want to experience the ultimate in freedom and flexibility.
- Explore deep into the Arctic with your own private helicopter skiing as much or as little as you like, entirely at your own pace. The possibilities are limitless.
Cost per person in Euros based on a group of four or eight skiers
Four skiers: €8,300 (6 days) / €4,200 (3 days)
Eight Skiers: €6,900 (6 days) / €3,550 (3 days)
*Groups of different sizes may be accommodated. Please ask for details.
Included:
- Meet & greet at Kiruna or Narvik Airport and return transfers to your hotel
- Three or six possible days heli skiing including four or eight hours of flying time (12 for a group of 8).
- Four or seven nights full board accommodation (double occupancy)
- Professional guide service for the duration of your trip
- Three-day lift pass for the resort if required
- Additional activities if poor weather prevents flying (dog-sledding, snowmobiling, fishing)
- Unlimited spa access with one massage included
- One evening wine tasting with award winning sommelier
Not Included:
- Pre & post heli skiing hotel nights if required
- Additional helicopter time (Charged at €2,000 per hour of flying time)
- Single occupancy (add €60 / night)
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