Gällivare, located 100km north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, is a small mining town where the Sámi culture and modern industry coexists. Throughout history, Gällivare has been a gathering point for the Sámi nomads, but the town itself wasn't really founded until the large scale mining industry started in the late 19th century. At this point Gällivare was the Klondike of Sweden, and the population rose from 150 to almost 7000 people in just 10 years. Today, Gällivare has two mines - AITIK, one of Europe's largest open cast mines or LKAB stretching 1000m underground - both offering highly appreciated guided tours.
In Gällivare, nature and outdoor activities plays a great part in people's recreation and just outside the town, the world heritage Laponia is located. The world heritage, with both huge areas of untouched wilderness as well as marked trails, is frequently visited by hikers from all over the world. Winters are long and snow-rich, with possibilities for both downhill and cross country skiing from November until May. During the summers, the midnight sun gives the area 24 h of daylight, which is used to its fullness with hiking and fishing.
Gällivare offer good conditions for both downhill and cross country skiing from early November to May. The big highlight for cross-country skiers is the race Dundret Runt which is held every year in late March or early April. The race attracts around 1000 skiers in all ages who can choose between a 30 km or 50 km distance. Every year international competitions in alpine skiing are held at Dundret. Last weekend in November is this year's edition of the Santas winter games held in Gällivare. Santas from around the world gather in Gällivare then to compete in disciplines as porridge eating, reindeer race and the chimney climbing. During the summer You can participate in Laponia loppet, a bike race that starts in Ritsem, in the heart of world heritage Laponia, and finish in Gällivare.
For more information about available accommodation in Gällivare during the World Cup - visit www.gellivarelapland.se or contact Gällivare tourist office for booking.
On the ski stadium there will be food and drinks for sale. You can buy tickets to the event at the entrance.
There are two daily flights between Stockholm Arlanda and Lapland Airport (Gällivare), 10 minutes away from the center of Gällivare. With the night train from Stockholm you come to Gällivare railway station early in the morning. The railway station is located in the center of Gällivare. If you choose to come by car you can choose either E10 or E45.
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