Piteå is a fantastic destination for cross-country skiing (längdskidor). Because the region is home to world-class skiers and the elite club Piteå Elit, the local tracks are kept in excellent condition. Whether you want a professional stadium tracks, a quiet forest trail, or a unique cruise over the frozen sea, Piteå has you covered
Fun facts
Cross-country skiing isn’t just a sport in Sweden—it is a deeply ingrained part of the culture and history. Here are 3 fun facts about the skiing lifestyle in Sweden and right here in Piteå!
Blueberry soup
If you go cross-country skiing in Sweden, you have to drink varm blåbärssoppa (warm blueberry soup). It is a national tradition! It provides the perfect mix of sugar, warmth, and hydration.
Piteå has some Olympic champions
The local club, Piteå Elit, is one of the most prestigious ski clubs in the world. Several Swedish Olympic gold medalists and World Champions have raced for them, including legends like Charlotte Kalla, Ebba Andersson, and Jonna Sundling. When you ski at Lindbäcksstadion, you are literally skiing on the same tracks as Olympic royalty!
There are two types of cross-country skiing
One is classic, which is a natural walking/running motion, and the other is skate skiing, which is more like an ice-skating motion. Both have their own types of skis and boots.
The Best Cross-Country Ski Areas in Piteå
- Lindbäcksstadion (The Elite & Family Arena)
- This is Piteå’s premier winter sports arena. It serves as a training ground for Swedish elite skiers, but it is equally welcoming to families and recreational skiers.
- Grisberget (Central & Scenic)
- Located right in the heart of Piteå, Grisberget is a highly popular, hilly forest area. TBeautiful pine-forest terrain with a great local feel, featuring an outdoor gym and illuminated tracks.
- Fårön Sea-Ice Track (Fårönbanan)
- A Unique Experience! If you want a truly classic northern experience, you cannot miss the sea-ice track. A 10 km open ice track plowed over the frozen sea around the island of Fårön.
- Hemmingsmark (Wilderness Vibe)
- Located about 20 km south of central Piteå, this is the place to go if you want a quiet, natural experience. The longer loops are known for providing a peaceful, scenic “wilderness feeling” compared to the busier city tracks. Some sections are illuminated.