Åskilje & the Blue Highway
Åskilje is a small, welcoming village tucked between Storuman and Lycksele in northern Sweden. With only a handful of homes and a peaceful setting, it may look quiet at first glance, but for campers and nature-lovers it’s a wonderful base. Here, forests stretch out in every direction, rivers flow calmly through the valleys, and the air feels cleaner than almost anywhere else in Sweden.
The village sits right on the E12, also called the Blue Highway. This scenic road is famous for following rivers and lakes across northern Sweden, into Lapland, and onward into Norway. Travelers often describe it as one of Scandinavia’s most beautiful routes — perfect if you’re on a road trip in a car, campervan, or even by bicycle.
Life in Åskilje
Åskilje has that typical Lapland feel: friendly locals, traditional wooden houses, and a pace of life that feels slower than in the cities. If you stop at a local café or meet someone walking their dog, don’t be surprised if you get a smile or a story about life in the north. For many visitors, this warmth is part of the charm.
Nature on Your Doorstep
- Rivers: The village is surrounded by waterways where you can fish, paddle, or simply enjoy the sound of flowing water.
- Forests: Summer brings carpets of moss, berries (blueberries, lingonberries, cloudberries), and mushrooms. In autumn, the trees turn golden, making walks especially beautiful.
- Wildlife: Moose are common in this part of Lapland, and with a bit of luck you might also spot reindeer or foxes.
Gateway to Lapland Adventures
From Åskilje you’re within reach of some of Sweden’s most famous trails and parks:
- Kungsleden (King’s Trail) – Sweden’s legendary 400+ km hiking path. You don’t need to walk the whole thing — even a few days on the trail gives you a taste of Lapland’s wild beauty (official info here).
- Lapplandsleden – A newer, quieter 190 km route that begins in Hemavan and leads through Västerbotten’s wilderness (guide here).
- Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve – One of Europe’s largest protected areas, home to mountain plateaus, rivers, and Sámi culture (info here).
- Sarek National Park – For experienced adventurers, this wild park has no marked trails or huts — just untouched wilderness (park info).
Why Stop in Åskilje?
Many travelers use Åskilje as a rest stop on the Blue Highway, but it’s worth staying longer. Even a couple of days here give you the chance to breathe deeply, wander along forest paths, and soak up the peaceful Lapland atmosphere. For families, it’s safe and easygoing; for adventurers, it’s a perfect jumping-off point into the wild.