Norrbotten County

Norrbotten is a county in northern Sweden featuring mountains, forests, and coastal areas spread across a vast territory. The region combines different landscape types with scattered settlements and towns, with Luleå serving as the main urban center.

The county was established in the early 1800s, combining the historical province of Norrbotten with large portions of Lapland into a single administrative entity. This merger of regions created the foundation for the area's modern geographic and political structure.

The Sámi people have inhabited these lands for centuries, practicing reindeer herding as a way of life deeply connected to the northern landscape. Their presence shapes daily life across much of the region and visitors can encounter their traditions and communities throughout the area.

The best access point is through Luleå, the main city, which has an airport with regular connections to other parts of Sweden and abroad. Visitors should prepare for dramatic shifts in daylight hours depending on the season, with very long days and nights at different times of the year.

The region is home to Kebnekaise, Sweden's highest mountain, and Hornavan, one of the country's deepest lakes, showcasing contrasting extremes of the northern landscape. These geographic landmarks draw hikers and nature enthusiasts for different reasons throughout the year.

Location: Sweden

Inception: May 21, 1810

Capital city: Luleå

Elevation above the sea: 412 m

Shares border with: Västerbotten County, Lapland, Nordland, Troms og Finnmark

Website: https://lansstyrelsen.se/norrbotten

GPS coordinates: 67.00000,20.00000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:26