Ice, sea & snow: Why the Bothnian Bay is winter’s best-kept secret

Anja
by Anja
2 min read
Aug 4, 2025 11:59:15 AM

Explore the Bothnian Coastal Route and unlock a new side of Nordic winter travel

Imagine snowmobiling along a glistening ice road, gliding across frozen sea tracks under the pale winter sun, or riding a hovercraft between icebergs as far as the eye can see. This is the Bothnian Bay – where snow meets the sea and the horizon stretches endlessly, offering winter in its purest, most unexpected form.

A frozen coastline unlike any other

Here, winter isn’t confined to forests and fells. The Bothnian Bay transforms into a world shaped by the sea: a vast, frozen landscape where coastal life continues against a backdrop of snow-covered shores and shimmering ice. Picture lighthouses standing guard over silent waters, fishing huts dotted along the coast, and locals heading out for a stroll on the frozen sea as naturally as they would down a city street. This unique blend of coastal calm and Arctic wonder creates a winter atmosphere that’s both invigorating and serene – an experience your clients are unlikely to have had before.

BCR-Kalajoki-Snowmobiling

 

Signature winter adventures

What makes the Bothnian Bay truly unforgettable are the adventures born of this frozen seascape. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits:

  • Hovercraft rides across ice and sea: Glide over frozen surfaces and drift between ice floes on this one-of-a-kind experience.
  • Ice tracks stretching over the sea: Perfect for winter drives and snowmobile routes that lead straight across the frozen bay.
  • Winter windsurfing: For thrill-seekers, it’s an exhilarating way to harness the wind over a glassy white expanse.
  • Winter horseback riding: Saddle up for a serene ride through snow-covered coastal trails and experience the region’s landscapes in a truly unique way.

These coastal adventures are complemented by cozy stays in boutique resorts like Kalle's Inn Resort, activity-packed hubs such as Nallikari Safaris, and cultural gems like Blå Huset and Norrbyskär Museum, adding depth and variety to your winter product portfolio.

BCR-Luleå-iceandlight_northernlight

 

Why this matters for travel trade

The Bothnian Bay is more than just a destination. It’s an emerging product opportunity. Here’s why it deserves your attention:

  • Untapped winter potential: A region that combines availability with unique experiences.
  • A fresh story to tell: Ideal for travelers craving something authentic and new.
  • Direct supplier connections: From premium stays to tailored nature programs and local experts, you’ll meet partners ready to collaborate and create.

See the full list of suppliers here.

Dive into coastal Nordic winter

On 10 September 2025, join our exclusive online sales event dedicated to the Bothnian Bay. Here’s what’s waiting for you:

Webinar: “Coastal Nordic Winter along the Bothnian Bay” – an introduction to the region’s winter magic
Live Q&A: Talk directly with destination experts
1:1 Meetings: Book private slots with suppliers from Finland and Sweden

Participation is free of charge and fully online – no travel required.

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