Attractions

Tärnaby and Hemavan may be tiny mountain villages almost devoid of attractions, but they are popular destinations because they mark the welcome end of the highly acclaimed and touted Kungsleden Royal Trail. Most hikers begin their odyssey at Abisko and finish their journeys at Hemavan. However, you may prefer to go against the flow by starting at Hemavan and ending at Abisko.

Instead of overnighting at Hemavan, you can stay at Tärnaby, the little village nearby. It is much more attractive, with meadows whose midsummer wildflowers run up to the edge of the dark forests that surround the town.

The tourist office is staffed by helpful people who have the latest information on hiking and fishing in the area. Because conditions are constantly changing, depending on the weather and the day, it is wise to inquire here for advice before heading out into the wilderness on your own.

Our favorite walk, which is signposted from the town center, is across a series of meadows to Laxfjället Mountain. From the base of that mountain, you can look back for a panoramic view of Tärnaby. If the day is warm and sunny, you can follow the signs to the "beach" at Lake Laisan. Locals go swimming here in July, but if you're from somewhere tropical, the waters will surely be too cold for you.