Question 1

How do I get to Umeå?

Accepted Answer

You are responsible for booking your own travel to Umeå. Our eco hotel is in a small village in Västerbotten, about an hour's drive from Umeå. There are no direct flights to Umeå from the UK. You’ll need to fly to Stockholm Arlanda Airport first and then take a flight to Umeå. Alternatively you can take a day train from Stockholm Central or Arlanda Central (Airport) to Umeå Central which takes about 6 hours.  Arrival day transfer: Umeå Central train station at 15:30 Umeå Airport at 16:00 Departure day transfer: Umeå Airport at 11:15 Umeå Central train station at 11:45

Question 2

What are the recommended flights to Umeå?

Accepted Answer

Arrival day recommended flight: SAS flight SK 034 from Stockholm Arlanda Airport  Depart Stockholm Arlanda Airport at 14:25  Arrive Umeå Airport at 15:25 Departure day recommended train/flight: SAS flight SK2027 from Umeå Airport  Depart Umeå Airport at 13:15 Arrive Stockholm Arlanda Airport at 14:20 Transfer Times: Arrival day transfer: Umeå Central train station at 15:30 Umeå Airport at 16:00 Departure day transfer: Umeå Airport at 11:15 Umeå Central train station at 11:45

Question 3

What are your recommended international flights to and from Stockholm?

Accepted Answer

We do not provide specific recommendations for international flights to Stockholm Arlanda Airport, but there are plenty of options to choose from. Ensure your flight gives you enough time to connect with domestic flights. If you book a through flight with SAS from wherever you are starting from, you will likely be able to connect in Stockholm to the domestic flights listed above without having to go through immigration. There are SAS flights from London Heathrow which connect with the recommended SAS domestic flights. You can book this as a through ticket on the SAS website. Alternatively book any flight to Stockholm but ensure your flight gives you enough time to  catch your flight connection. In this case you will need to do a self-transfer in Stockholm. See "What's a self-transfer?" Please note that Gutsy Girls cannot book travel and is not responsible for your travel to Umeå and that this information is just provided as a guide to help you!

Question 4

What's a self-transfer?

Accepted Answer

If you are flying internationally to Stockholm and then connecting with a flight to Umeå, you will need to check in separately for each connecting flight. Make sure you have enough time. You will need to collect hold bags and check them in again for the next flight. You must pass through security and passport control during each connection and you will need a visa if your connection is in a country that requires one. You should check before you book that you have time to connect through the airport What if flights are cancelled or delayed? Booking flights together with a flight consolidator or agent could provide you with some guarantee against cancellations or missed connections. Check the agent's policies before you book. If you book direct with two different airlines, your transfers will not be guaranteed. Please note that Gutsy Girls cannot book travel and is not responsible for your travel to Røros and that this information is just provided as a guide to help you!

Question 5

What are your recommended domestic trains?

Accepted Answer

You can book trains at https://www.sj.se/en/. SJ releases the train tickets in four batches throughout the year. In October 2024 you can book tickets until March 17, 2025. There is no indication of when April tickets and schedules will be released. The below trains are based on the March schedule.These may change; email us at bookings@gutsygirls.co.uk if you can’t find these trains when tickets are released. Keep an eye on the SJ website for ticket release. Arrival day recommended train: SJ High-speed train, SJ 3000, train 560 Depart 06:22 from Stockholm Central Depart 06:42 from Arlanda Central (Airport) (same train) Arrive Umeå Central at 12:37 Departure day recommended train: SJ High-speed train, SJ 3000, train 585 Depart 14:20 from Umeå Central Arrive 20:19 at Stockholm Arlanda Central (Airport) Arrive 20:37 at  Stockholm Central (same train) Stockholm Central is the city of Stockholm’s main train station. Arlanda Central Station is located directly beneath SkyCity, the airport's central area, between Terminals 4 and 5. It’s a 20 minute train ride from Stockholm central station. You will have some time to spare in Umeå before and after the transfers; see “Should I spend extra time in Umeå?” for things to do. Transfer Times: Arrival day transfer: Umeå Central train station at 15:30 Umeå Airport at 16:00 Departure day transfer: Umeå Airport at 11:15 Umeå Central train station at 11:45

Question 6

Can I take an overnight train from Stockholm?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the best option is to take the overnight train to Vindeln (NOT Umeå), which is only a 20 minute taxi journey to our base. If you take this option, you will not be able to avail of our single timed transfers (which are from Umeå and not timed to match overnight train arrivals and departures). We can arrange for a taxi to collect you (at an extra cost, see below). Train Times: Arrival day recommended train: SJ Night train, train 92 (departing the night before start date) Depart 21:55 from Stockholm Central Depart 22:21 from Arlanda Central (Airport) (same train) Arrive Vindeln Resecentrum at 08:12 (on arrival day) Departure day recommended train: SJ Night train, train 91 Depart 20:26 from Vindeln Resecentrum Arrive 06:35 at Stockholm Arlanda Central (Airport) (the following day) Arrive 07:01 at  Stockholm Central (same train) When you arrive: Start with breakfast at the hotel restaurant (140,- SEK) If the room is not occupied, you can check-in directly If the room is occupied, you will have to wait until the previous guest has checked out and the room has been cleaned (this will be prioritised). You can leave your luggage at reception. Take part in an activity if you wish (e.g. sauna, snowshoe hiking, fat-biking).   Extra costs (payable directly to hotel): Taxi from Vindeln: 660,- SEK per car (one way) Breakfast: 140,- SEK Lunch: 150,- SEK Activity Options (please ask us if there is something else you’d like to do): Sauna with cold bath: 500,- SEK per setting Snowshoe hike guided tour: 550,- SEK per person Snowmobile tour 1,5h: 875,- SEK per person

Question 7

What are the transfer times on arrival and departure days?

Accepted Answer

On arrival day, we will collect you from: Umeå Central train station at 15:30 Umeå Airport at 16:00 On departure day, we will drop you off at: Umeå Airport at 11:15 Umeå Central train station at 11:45

Question 8

How long is the transfer from Umeå to the accommodation?

Accepted Answer

The transfer takes approximately 1 hour.

Question 9

Can I arrange a private transfer if I can't make the scheduled transfer times?

Accepted Answer

Yes, private transfers can be arranged at an additional cost. Please contact us in advance to arrange this. To / From Umea: 1632,- per car (one way) To / From Vindeln 660,- per car (one way)

Question 10

Should I spend extra time in Umeå?

Accepted Answer

If you have extra time, Umeå is worth exploring. It’s known for its contemporary art at Bildmuseet, rich local history at Västerbottens Museum, and Sami cultural presence. The city's dining scene offers a mix of traditional Swedish and international cuisine, complemented by a lively nightlife with bars and live music. You can find more information here: https://visitumea.se/en

Question 11

Travelling with other Gutsy Girls

Accepted Answer

We will connect you with others on the trip via WhatsApp, so you may be able to arrange to travel together.

Question 12

What is the accommodation like?

Accepted Answer

The eco hotel is nestled in nature, surrounded by forests and the Umeälven river, it offers a serene escape with hiking paths, birdwatching, and possible sightings of moose. The hotel is sustainably heated by geothermal energy and located on a stone slope with stunning views of the river, mountains, and forest. The rooms provide a cosy retreat, each thoughtfully designed with natural materials and modern comforts. Each room includes plush beds, an en-suite bathroom with shower and fresh towels, a TV, Wi-Fi and a selection of tea and coffee.

Question 13

Are towels and hairdryers provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes, towels and hairdryers are provided in the rooms.

Question 14

Are there laundry facilities?

Accepted Answer

Laundry facilities are not available. You can bring travel wash or soap flakes for handwashing clothes if needed.

Question 15

What is the food like?

Accepted Answer

The food on this trip is one of the highlights! You'll experience delicious meals inspired by the best of Västerbotten's nature and traditions. Breakfast is provided each morning, while lunch is a mix of meals at our restaurant or in the beautiful nature of Granö Beckasin, with one special lunch at the Sami Camp. Dinners include 5 three-course menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients, including wild game, farm-fresh produce, and berries. The restaurant partners with local hunters, farmers, and bakers, ensuring that each meal is sustainable and rooted in the traditions of the region. The restaurant is KRAV-certified, meaning they prioritise organic and eco-friendly practices, their menus reflect the changing seasons, offering the freshest ingredients available.

Question 16

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can cater for all dietary requirements. Please inform us of any allergies or dietary preferences in advance.

Question 17

What is snowshoeing?

Accepted Answer

Snowshoeing is hiking over snow with snowshoes, which attach to your boots and distribute your weight to prevent sinking. Made from lightweight materials, they make snow travel easier. It's a great way to explore winter landscapes and provides a full-body workout, burning more energy than regular walking. Snowshoeing also improves balance and requires no prior experience, making it accessible to all.

Question 18

What if I’ve never done snowshoeing before?

Accepted Answer

This trip is beginner-friendly. Our guides will provide instruction and support throughout the experience. No previous experience is necessary, just a willingness to learn and try something new.

Question 19

What is backcountry style cross country skiing?

Accepted Answer

On this adventure we’ll be backcountry style cross country skiing. We’ll be going off track and making our own tracks in the snow. It can be compared to hiking with skis on, you’ll get a little bit of glide and help from the skis, particularly on the downhills!  It's similar to snowshoeing, but you'll have the benefit of following the person infront's tracks and have a little bit more glide. If you have cross country skied before, the motion is similar, but you won't gain as much momentum and glide as you would in the track.

Question 20

Do I need previous cross country skiing/backcountry skiing experience?

Accepted Answer

No prior experience is needed for our backcountry ski tour. The 2-hour tour starts with easy, flat terrain on the river, followed by a gentle route around Granö Island. It's designed for beginners to cross country skiing!

Question 21

Do I need previous experience driving a snowmobile?

Accepted Answer

No prior experience is required for this snowmobile adventure. However, you must have a valid driver's licence to operate the snowmobile. If you don't have a licence, you can still participate as a passenger, as each snowmobile accommodates two people.

Question 22

I am vegan / vegetarian; do I have to eat reindeer during the Sami visit?

Accepted Answer

Not at all, there will be vegan and vegetarian options available. We do ask you to approach this experience with respect for the Sami people and their cultural heritage. Reindeer herding is central to their way of life, and while tasting reindeer is completely optional, we encourage all guests to respect the rich traditions of their indigenous culture.

Question 23

What kit is provided?

Accepted Answer

We will provide: Snowshoes Hiking poles Skis Ski poles A winter clothing kit is available for hire, including polar boots, thermal trousers, a thermal jacket and gloves. The kit can be rented for an additional fee of £65, which can be paid at the time of booking or added later on.

Question 24

What should I wear for snowshoeing?

Accepted Answer

Be prepared for cold weather. While snowshoeing, your body generates heat, but during breaks, you'll cool quickly. Wear multiple thin layers for insulation, starting with wool or synthetic base layers, a mid-layer if needed, and a windproof, breathable shell jacket. Keep a warm, insulated jacket in your backpack for rest stops. For your legs, choose windproof, water-repellent soft shell pants with a base layer if it's cold. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and stays cold. Use windproof mittens, wool blend socks, and sturdy walking boots with room for extra socks. Don’t forget a windproof hat, face protection, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Question 25

What should I wear for backcountry skiing?

Accepted Answer

Please see our blog about cross country ski clothing here. In a nutshell, when we are cross country skiing we are very active and generating heat while out in the cold. While moving we get hot (and sweaty!) but then when we stop in the cold, we cool down quickly. The mistake people often make is overdressing, getting too hot and sweaty whilst moving and then cooling off quickly and then feeling cold and damp at every stop. Cross country skiing does NOT require the same sort of clothing as downhill skiing because the warm, padded clothing for downhill skiing takes into account long stretches sitting still on chairlifts at the mercy of the weather - not needed whilst cross country skiing!

Question 26

Can I hire a winter clothing kit?

Accepted Answer

Yes! A winter clothing kit is available for hire, including polar boots, thermal trousers, a thermal jacket, gloves, and a hat. The kit can be rented for an additional fee of £65, which can be paid at the time of booking or added later on.

Question 27

Is there a packing list?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can find a detailed packing list here.

Question 28

Do we need to carry a bag during activities?

Accepted Answer

Yes, bring a small daypack (around 25 - 35L) for essentials like water, snacks, and extra layers. A lightweight dry bag is also recommended to keep things dry during activities.

Question 29

Do I need to bring special equipment for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing?

Accepted Answer

We provide all the necessary equipment for snowshoeing, including snowshoes and poles. Tegsnäs skis (wooden skis) and poles are provided for backcountry skiing. For both activities you will need your own winter walking boots.

Question 30

What footwear do I need for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing?

Accepted Answer

You will need sturdy and warm walking boots with good ankle support - these will be used for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.

Question 31

What are the weather conditions like?

Accepted Answer

Average winter temperatures typically range from -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F), though it can drop even lower during cold spells. In some areas, temperatures might remain below freezing for extended periods. This sounds cold, however, for most of the winter in Sweden it is a “dry” cold which tends to feel less cold than “damp” cold.

Question 32

Do we need cash?

Accepted Answer

Most places in Sweden accept credit or debit cards, so there’s no need to carry large amounts of cash. If you'd like, you can bring a small amount of local currency for personal expenses.

Question 33

Am I too old to join this trip?

Accepted Answer

There is no upper age limit for our adventures - we have women up to 70 years old join us. The Gutsy Girls community is filled with fun, friendly and supportive women from 18-70+. We never ask your age, just that you are up for an adventure! As a rough guide, most Gutsy Girls guests are 24-60 years old, with around 60% in their 30s-40s. After a day learning to ride, mountain biking over the hills, hiking to peaks for incredible views or exploring remote locations by paddleboard and kayak, everyone’s ages become irrelevant as we bond over our experiences.

Question 34

Can I come solo?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Many of our participants join solo, and it’s a great way to meet new, like-minded friends. We’ll connect you with other participants via a WhatsApp group before the trip.

Question 35

Why aren’t all the guides and instructors female?

Accepted Answer

Whenever possible we use female instructors and guides, however we cannot always guarantee this, simply because there are fewer female instructors available! Our first priority is to work with the most highly experienced and considerate instructors and guides, who are patient, friendly and as passionate as we are about building women’s confidence in the outdoors. Simply due to the ratio of men to women in the outdoors industry, sometimes this means our guides and instructors are male. We keep a close eye on the feedback our guides receive from our guests as we believe that overall this is more important than their gender. We sincerely hope that as more women are introduced to adventure sports and activities, the amount of female guides and instructors in our industry will increase.

Question 36

What happens if the weather impacts the planned activities?

Accepted Answer

If the weather affects the planned activities, we will adjust the itinerary as needed. Safety is our top priority, and we always have backup options for indoor or alternative activities.

Question 37

Is the itinerary flexible?

Accepted Answer

The itinerary for this trip can be found on the Gutsy Girls website on the relevant page. Please note however that our itineraries are never set in stone and that our guides will often swap things around to make the most of the given weather conditions on each day and taking the current forecast into account.  Please be flexible with our guides who work hard to ensure we are able to have adventures and stay safe at the same time.

FAQs

North Macedonia Hiking Adventure

Travel

Accommodation & Food

Activities

Gear & Packing

Other

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FAQs

North Macedonia Hiking Adventure

Travel

Where do we meet?

What are the recommended flights to Tirana?

Do I have to arrive on the recommended flights?

How long is the transfer from Tirana Airport to the accommodation?

Should I spend extra time in Tirana?

Travelling with other Gutsy Girls

Accommodation & Food

What is the accommodation like?

Are towels and hairdryers provided?

Are there laundry facilities?

What is the food like?

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Activities

How difficult are the hikes?

How far will we walk each day?

Do I have to do all four hikes?

How fit do I need to be?

Gear & Packing

Is there a packing list?

Do we need to carry a bag whilst hiking?

Do I need to bring special equipment for cross-country skiing?

What are the weather conditions like?

Other

Do we need cash?

Am I too old to join this trip?

Can I come solo?

Why aren’t all the guides and instructors female?

What happens if the weather impacts the planned activities?

Discover Your Next Holiday

Season

Activities

Gutsy Girls