Swedish Lapland

This is the most northerly province in Sweden, the largest in area (120,000sq.km/46,000sq.mi) and the most sparsely populated. It extends from north to south for some 600km/370mi, with an average width of 250km/150mi. The land rises from east to west in a series of plateau-like steps. Towards the Norwegian frontier is a wild mountain region, largely untouched by man, which reaches its highest point in Kebnekaise (2,117m/6,946ft:). A number of rivers (Umeälv, Skellefteälv, Piteälv, Luleälv, Kalixälv, Torneälv, etc.), well stocked with fish, rise in this area and flow southeast towards the Gulf of Bothnia. Most of the area is covered with bog and forest; towards the east and north the forests become increasingly sparse and finally end in a scrub of stunted birch trees.

The inhabitants live mainly by timber-working, with some arable and stock farming. In addition there are the iron mines of Gällivare and Kiruna. There are numerous hydro-electric stations on the rivers; among those best worth seeing are Akkats, Porjus and Vietas. The area is traversed by a number of roads and by the mineral railroad from Luleå to Narvik.