Tärnaby: The Alpine Gem of Sweden

Discover Tärnaby: Sweden's premier destination for skiing, hiking, and experiencing the unique beauty and culture of Swedish Lapland.

Home
Sweden
Tärnaby

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Swedish Lapland, Tärnaby is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its stunning alpine scenery, this charming village is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts. Tärnaby boasts some of the best ski slopes in Sweden, attracting both amateurs and professionals from around the world. The village has produced some of Sweden's most famous alpine skiers, adding to its rich sporting heritage. In the warmer months, Tärnaby transforms into a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding mountains and lakes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities, from fishing and canoeing to hiking and wildlife spotting. The midnight sun in summer provides endless daylight, making it possible to explore the natural beauty of the area at any hour. Tärnaby is not just about sports and nature. The village has a rich cultural scene, with local festivals, traditional Sami culture, and cozy cafes where you can experience Swedish hospitality. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or a peaceful retreat, Tärnaby has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tärnaby.

Visit in winter for the best skiing experience, but don't miss the summer activities like hiking and fishing.
Pack layers of clothing, as weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Explore the local Sami culture by visiting a reindeer farm or attending a traditional festival.
Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak ski season.
Sample local delicacies such as reindeer meat and cloudberries at local eateries.

File:Hemavan, valley from Mellanbacken.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Tarna church A.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Explore the best of what Tärnaby has to offer

When is the best time to go to Tärnaby?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Drottningholm Palace

UNESCO-listed royal residence blending 17th-century baroque palace, exotic pavilions, and lush gardens for an immersive slice of Swedish monarchical history.

Skansen Kronan

A compact 17th‑century hilltop fortress above Linnéstaden offering sweeping city panoramas, terraces for events and relaxed parkland for picnics.

Stockholm City Hall

Discover Stockholm's brick-built icon: grand halls, Nobel legacy, and tower views over the archipelago from this waterfront landmark of Swedish pride.

Gammelstad Church Town

A living UNESCO church village: centuries of red cottages clustered around a medieval stone church where history and everyday rituals meet.

Riddarholmen Church

Stockholm’s medieval brick church turned royal mausoleum, famed for its cast-iron spire and the tombs of Sweden’s monarchs.

Visby Town Wall

Scandinavia's grandest medieval wall encircles Visby's UNESCO heart—3.4 km of towers, gates, and sea views evoking Hanseatic glory amid Gotland's timeless charm.

Parliament House

Sweden’s parliament on Helgeandsholmen: historic chambers, modern debating hall and an open invitation to observe how Swedish democracy works.

Galgberget, Visby

A compact cliff-top reserve north of Visby where stone pillars mark a medieval gallows amid limestone outcrops and coastal scrub.

St. Nicolai Ruin

A 13th‑century Dominican church ruin in Visby — weathered limestone walls, resonant acoustics and a timeless, open‑air sacred space.

S:ta Karin ruin

A vast 13th‑century Franciscan ruin with rare brick vaulting and a dramatic open‑air nave beside Visby’s Great Square.

Drottens ruin

A compact, atmospheric 13th-century church ruin in the heart of Visby that reveals medieval stonework and the city’s layered history.

St Clemens Church Ruin

Towering arches and buzzing bees amid Visby's medieval ruins—a serene echo of 13th-century faith and Hanseatic trade in Gotland's UNESCO jewel.

Unmissable attractions to see

Stora Sundby Castle

A romantic neo‑Gothic ‘calendar’ castle by Lake Hjälmaren — layered history, parkland, and a lived‑in fairytale silhouette.

Stalpets vattenfall

A compact yet powerful gorge where Svartån plunges 20 metres—southern Sweden’s highest waterfall, framed by a seasonal garden café and mossy cliffs.

Cementbunkern Stekenjokk

A stark concrete relic on Sweden’s highest paved plateau — a weathered roadside landmark carved by wind, snow and light.

Björkenäs Nature reserve

Oak meadows, shifting shorelines and quiet birdwatching on the eastern shore of Lake Ören near Aneby.

Skärsjöhäst

Sturdy Nordsvenska horses pull carriage and sleigh outings through Småland woodlands—simple, slow rural rides year‑round near Aneby.

Sejaur Rastplats

A simple, scenic roadside rest stop in Jiltjaur—picnic benches, waste bins and the quiet of Lapland forest for a brief, restorative pause.

Snötroll sleddog adventures and equipment

A hands-on racing kennel and sled-dog operator in Slussfors offering authentic husky encounters and winter sled experiences in Swedish Lapland.

Kyrkberget

Scale craggy heights and wander serene trails in Kyrkberget's wild embrace—a climber's haven amid Sweden's northern forests and endless skies.

Brattiken

Discover the serene beauty of Brattiken, a breathtaking nature preserve in Slussfors, Sweden, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Dikanäs Pumptrack

Experience the thrill of biking and skating at Dikanäs Pumptrack, a premier outdoor attraction perfect for families and adventure enthusiasts.

Dalvadis Sami Experience

A tactile, small-group Sámi experience: meet reindeer, hear joik by the lavvu fire and learn living traditions in the Sápmi landscape.

Luspen

A tranquil shoreline reserve on Lake Storuman where islands, reeds and boreal forest shape intimate views of northern Lapland.

Marsfjällskåtan

A modest fjäll summit above Fatmomakke where open fell, Sami cultural traces and wide northern vistas meet in a season‑shaped landscape.

Gråtanberget

A vast taiga reserve of rocky ridges, ancient forest and peat hollows—quiet, wild and ecologically rich.

Sigvardsson Nilssons Fjälluft

A quietly scenic Lapland hiking area by Kanaan, where birch-studded ridges, tundra flowers and long evening light reward slow walking.

Essential places to dine

Stockholms Gästabud

Cozy, traditional Swedish cooking in a compact Gamla Stan dining room—classic meatballs, gravlax and pickled fish near the Royal Palace.

Glashuset Restaurant & Bar

Glass-walled brasserie on Stockholm's Strandvägen quay: seasonal Swedish dishes, cocktails, and unbeatable waterfront views in a luminous urban oasis.

Bistro Rolf de Maré

A central, no-frills Stockholm bistro serving hearty Swedish classics and simple continental dishes in a warm, social setting.

Fjäderholmarnas krog

A timber-toned, seafood-focused restaurant on Stora Fjäderholmen—archipelago flavours, seaside terraces and seasonal Swedish menus in an island setting.

The Vasa Museum Restaurant

Swedish flavors by the water's edge, steps from the majestic Vasa ship—organic lunches, fika treats, and harbor views define this museum gem.

Skansens Restauranger

Historic cafés and terrace restaurants inside Skansen serving seasonal Swedish dishes in atmospheric, heritage settings.

Hamnkrogen

Vaxholm's harborside krog since 1958: local Swedish flavors, boat-view vibes, and endless archipelago charm for lunch, dinner, or drinks.

Indian Street Food & Co

Vibrant modern Indian street food in Hammarby Sjöstad, blending authentic spices, sustainable practices, and bold flavors from samosas to biryanis.

Allé Kök & Bar

A convivial Hammarby Sjöstad spot for pizza, grills and drinks—casual daytime lunches, buzzy weekend nights and a sunny terrace when the weather allows.

Restaurangen Moderna Museet

Seasonal, locally focused dining with sweeping waterfront views inside Moderna Museet on Skeppsholmen.

Hemma hos Kaj

Waterside grill and bar on Hammarby kaj — relaxed dining, a sunny quay terrace and late-night weekend energy.

Namaskaar Indian Restaurant

Spice-infused sanctuary in Södermalm: Namaskaar serves soul-warming Indian classics from tandoor-grilled delights to aromatic curries in a cozy neighborhood haven.

Restaurant Verandan

Elegant waterfront dining at the Grand Hôtel — classic Swedish smörgåsbord, seasonal menus and sweeping harbour views in a refined hotel setting.

Brasserie Makalös

A slice of Paris under Stockholm's crystal chandelier: classic French brasserie dishes, fine wines, and operatic evenings in Kungsträdgården's shadow.

Holmen Kök & Bar

A relaxed waterfront kitchen and bar in Saltsjöbaden serving coastal classics, seafood and sturdy burgers on a timber pier with harbour views.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Åhléns City

Stockholm's vibrant department store empire: fashion, beauty, home essentials, and dining under one roof in the city's pulsing center.

NK Stockholm

Stockholm’s century-old luxury department store — an architectural landmark and curated stage for Swedish design, fashion and gourmet food.

Clas Ohlson Sverige

Sweden's trusted fix-it chain: tools, tech, and home hacks for every challenge, right in Uppsala's bustling gallerian.

Clas Ohlson Sweden

A practical one-stop shop for tools, electronics and household essentials inside Westfield Täby Centrum’s level 3.

Clas Ohlson

A practical one-stop shop for tools, lighting, small electronics and home-fix essentials in Norrtälje’s suburban retail strip.

Naturkompaniet

Gear up for Swedish wilderness wonders at Naturkompaniet—premium outdoor essentials and expert advice in Solna's premier mall.

Kjell & Company

A compact, service‑minded electronics shop in central Uppsala stocking cables, chargers, accessories and hobby components for quick, practical solutions.

Åhléns

Discover endless style and home treasures at Åhléns Norrtälje, your coastal town's ultimate department store haven.

Coop

Experience the heart of Dikanäs at Coop Supermarket, where local flavors and friendly service await every visitor.

Cervera

Specialist kitchenware and gift shop in Täby Centrum with curated cookware, tableware and practical in-store services.

The Old Town Souvenir

Discover authentic Swedish souvenirs on historic Västerlånggatan in Gamla Stan, where Viking crafts and Dala horses await amid medieval charm.

Cervera Norrtälje

A practical, well-curated kitchen and homewares shop in Norrtälje’s Flygfältets retail area offering brands, gifting and in-store services.

Ödins Garveri

A small, working leather workshop in central Visby where handcrafted Scandinavian leather goods and maker supplies meet old‑house charm.

Dala Shop

Discover hand-painted Dala horses and Swedish folk crafts in the heart of Gamla Stan's vibrant Old Town streets.

Coop Kittelfjäll

Explore Coop Kittelfjäll: Your essential grocery destination for local flavors and travel necessities in the heart of Kittelfjäll.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Steam Hotel

Experience the perfect blend of history and modern luxury at The Steam Hotel in Västerås, Sweden, where comfort meets sophistication.

Tak

Experience the perfect blend of Swedish and Asian cuisine at Tak, a stunning rooftop restaurant in the heart of Stockholm.

The Winery Hotel

Experience wine country luxury at The Winery Hotel in Solna, where comfort meets exquisite dining and stunning views await.

Skybar

Discover the Skybar in Stockholm, where breathtaking views meet a vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cuisine, perfect for every occasion.

The Capital

Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at The Capital, Stockholm’s premier cocktail bar located on the eighth floor of a chic hotel.

Highbar Stockholm

Discover Highbar Stockholm, a premier cocktail bar offering breathtaking city views and an unforgettable nightlife experience.

Godot Brasserie

Discover a sophisticated blend of Swedish and European flavors at Godot Brasserie, a premier dining destination in the heart of Stockholm.

Hotell Toppen

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and culinary delights at Hotell Toppen, your go-to destination in Storuman, Sweden.

Stockholm Under Stjärnorna

Unwind at Stockholm Under Stjärnorna, where enchanting ambiance meets exceptional drinks in the heart of Sweden's capital.

Bolaget i Visby AB

Discover Bolaget i Visby, where haute French cuisine meets a vibrant cocktail bar in the heart of Visby, creating unforgettable dining experiences.

Takpark by Urban Deli

Experience stunning views and vibrant nightlife at Takpark by Urban Deli, a premier rooftop bar in Stockholm with a delightful menu of craft cocktails and local cuisine.

Frasses Storuman

Discover Frasses Storuman, a charming fast food restaurant offering delicious local and international cuisine in scenic Sweden.

Lasse i Gatan

Discover Lasse i Gatan in Stockholm: a lively bar and restaurant offering a unique blend of local and international cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

Kittelfjäll Värdshus

Discover the charm of Kittelfjäll Värdshus, where delicious local cuisine meets cozy accommodations in Sweden's stunning wilderness.

Restaurang 3:an

Discover Restaurang 3:an in Storuman - where authentic Swedish flavors and cozy ambiance meet for an unforgettable dining experience.

With Eve

Local Phrases about Tärnaby

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Tärnaby. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHej
  [hey]
- GoodbyeAdjö
  [ad-yoo]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNej
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeSnälla/Tack
  [snell-a/tahck]
- Thank youTack
  [tahck]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsäkta
  [oor-sayk-ta]
- How are you?Hur mår du?
  [hoor mor doo]
- Fine. And you?Bra. Och du?
  [bra ock doo]
- Do you speak English?Talar du engelska?
  [tah-lar doo eng-els-ka]
- I don't understandJag förstår inte
  [yag for-stor in-te]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJag skulle vilja se menyn, tack
  [yag shool-eh vil-ya say men-in, tahck]
- I don't eat meatJag äter inte kött
  [yag eh-ter in-te chot]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skohl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJag skulle vilja betala, tack
  [yag shool-eh vil-ya beh-tah-la, tahck]
- Help!Hjälp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå iväg!
  [go ee-veg]
- Call the Police!Ring polisen!
  [ring po-lee-sen]
- Call a doctor!Ring en läkare!
  [ring en la-kah-re]
- I'm lostJag är vilse
  [yag air vil-seh]
- I'm illJag är sjuk
  [yag air shoook]
- I'd like to buy...Jag skulle vilja köpa...
  [yag shool-eh vil-ya choh-pa]
- I'm just lookingJag tittar bara
  [yag tit-tar bah-ra]
- How much is it?Hur mycket kostar det?
  [hoor mer-ket koh-star deht]
- That's too expensiveDet är för dyrt
  [deht air for deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du sänka priset?
  [kan doo sahn-ka pre-set]
- What time is it?Vad är klockan?
  [vad air klok-kan]
- It's one o'clockKlockan är ett
  [klok-kan air eht]
- Half past (10)Halv tio
  [halv tee-o]
- MorningMorgon
  [morg-on]
- AfternoonEftermiddag
  [eft-er-mee-dag]
- EveningKväll
  [kvell]
- YesterdayIgår
  [ee-gor]
- TodayIdag
  [ee-dag]
- TomorrowImorgon
  [ee-morg-on]
- 1Ett
  [eht]
- 2Två
  [tvoh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Fyra
  [fuh-rah]
- 5Fem
  [fem]
- 6Sex
  [sehx]
- 7Sju
  [s-yoo]
- 8Åtta
  [oht-ta]
- 9Nio
  [nee-oh]
- 10Tio
  [tee-oh]
- Where's a/the...?Var är en/the...?
  [var air en/the]
- What's the address?Vad är adressen?
  [vad air ad-dress-en]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du visa mig (på kartan)?
  [kan doo vee-sa meeg (poh kart-an)]
- When's the next (bus)?När går nästa (buss)?
  [nair gor nes-ta (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)En biljett (till ....)
  [en beel-yet (teel)]

History of Tärnaby

Tärnaby's roots stretch back to the indigenous Sami people, who have lived in the region for centuries. The Sami culture is deeply intertwined with the land, as they traditionally relied on reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting. This cultural heritage is still visible today in local traditions, crafts, and the Sami language, which is taught in some local schools.
Tärnaby was officially founded in the 17th century, although it remained a small settlement for many years. The region's challenging geography and harsh winters made it difficult for large-scale development. However, its natural beauty and resources attracted settlers who were determined to make a life in this remote part of Sweden.
In the early 20th century, Tärnaby began to gain recognition as a prime location for skiing. The area's mountainous terrain and reliable snowfall made it perfect for winter sports. The establishment of ski clubs and the construction of ski lifts in the mid-1900s transformed Tärnaby into a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts from around the world.
Tärnaby is the hometown of two of Sweden's most famous skiers, Ingemar Stenmark and Anja Pärson. Ingemar Stenmark, who dominated alpine skiing in the 1970s and 1980s, brought international fame to Tärnaby. Anja Pärson continued this legacy in the 2000s, further solidifying Tärnaby's reputation as a breeding ground for world-class skiers. Their successes have inspired many young athletes in the region.
Built in 1854, Tärnaby Church is a significant historical landmark in the area. The wooden church, with its distinctive architecture, serves as a reminder of the region's development over the years. It has been a center for community gatherings and religious services, reflecting the spiritual and social life of Tärnaby's residents.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw a boom in tourism in Tärnaby. The development of infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities, has made it a year-round destination. Visitors come to enjoy not only the skiing but also the hiking, fishing, and the stunning natural scenery during the summer months. This influx of tourists has brought economic growth and increased visibility to this once-remote village.
Tärnaby hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year that celebrate its unique heritage. The Sami Week, for example, highlights the traditions and customs of the Sami people through music, dance, and food. These festivals provide a rich cultural experience for both locals and visitors, preserving Tärnaby's historical legacy while fostering a sense of community.

Tärnaby Essentials

Tärnaby is located in the Västerbotten County in Sweden. The nearest airport to Tärnaby is Hemavan Tärnaby Airport (HMV), which is about 20 kilometers away. You can catch a direct flight from Stockholm Arlanda Airport to Hemavan Tärnaby Airport. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive from Stockholm, which takes approximately 10-12 hours. Train travel is also an option, with connections available through the Swedish rail network to nearby towns, followed by a bus or taxi to Tärnaby.
In Tärnaby, getting around is relatively straightforward. The small town is easily navigable on foot, especially during the summer months. For longer distances or during the winter, local buses and taxis are available. Renting a car is also an option and can provide more flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas, including nearby Hemavan and the scenic routes of Lapland.
The official currency in Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Tärnaby, including in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Tärnaby for cash withdrawals.
Tärnaby is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and the town is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Standard precautions should still be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings in public places and avoiding isolated areas at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Tärnaby.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in Sweden. This number connects you to emergency services, including police, fire, and medical assistance. There is a local medical clinic in Tärnaby for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies should you need more extensive medical care.
Fashion: Do dress warmly, especially in winter, as temperatures can drop significantly. Layering is key. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although Sweden is generally secular. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful on public transportation. Don't talk loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hej' (Hello). Swedes appreciate personal space, so avoid overly familiar gestures. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as reindeer meat and cloudberries. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
To experience Tärnaby like a local, visit during the off-peak seasons to get a true sense of the community. Engage with locals at events like the Tärnaby Snow Festival. Try your hand at traditional activities such as ice fishing or cross-country skiing. Don't miss visiting the local Sami cultural sites to understand the indigenous heritage of the area.

Tärnaby: The Alpine Gem of Sweden

Know before you go