Where to go Dog Sledding in Europe?
Embark for a magical winter experience that allows you to relax and take in spectacular scenery, while amazing dogs pull you by sled? Discover some of the best places to try dog sledding in Europe.
Dog sledding in Europe has become a popular way of exploring beautiful winter landscapes. The sled is always run by a professional musher (dog sled driver) who knows the terrain and the loyal dogs like the back of their hand, allowing you to sit back and enjoy your time. Depending on the weather conditions, the sled is usually pulled by 8 to 14 dogs, either Alaskan or Siberian Huskies.
With various sled ride lengths, from 10-minute discovery sessions to multi-day expeditions, where you take the reins yourself, there’s a magical tailor-made experience for everyone! If you wonder where to best go dog sledding in Europe, our 10 great destinations below might win you over! One more extraordinary than the other, you will have a tough time choosing! Which ever you pick, get ready for an incredible mushing adventure!
Abisko, Sweden
The Northern lights have always held a certain amount of magic and mystery. Head to Abisko, far north of Norway, to take a dog sledding excursion like no other. Whether you’re looking for a first-time dog sledding trip in Abisko, an extended multiple day excursion or a self-drive dog sledding experience, Abisko has it all! This small Norwegian town is quite accessible, with good transport links, including a direct train from Stockholm and connections from nearby Kiruna Airport. This makes it a convenient destination for those looking to experience Arctic adventures without extensive travel.
Let these gorgeous dogs pull you along through the stunning wilderness of this gorgeous snowy place, through deep valleys and past majestic mountains. The Lapland silence is interrupted only by the breathing of the dogs and the sled’s sound on the ice.
Port d’Envalira, Andorra
When it comes to dog sledding in Europe, we don’t only talk about the Great North, but also about more southern spots. Head to the east of the stunning country of Andorra for incredible mushing adventures at the mountain pass of Port d’Envalira, in the Pyrenees. Take the sled ride of a lifetime through gorgeous Andorran mountain valleys, through beautiful snowy forests and past the popular Grandvalira ski resort.
Choose a 2km or 3.5km daytime dog sledding excursion and experience the thrill of riding through the wintry snowscape of the Andorran Pyrenees. If you’re looking for a great nighttime adventure activity, take a dog sledding trip at night. Taking a dog sled ride at night is a great way to appreciate the experience through your senses, with only headlamps lighting the way and few sounds in this peaceful area, except the dogs and sled moving along the snow.
Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø is a gorgeous subarctic city in Northern Norway, north of the Arctic Circle, and THE place to go for dog sledding adventures. With an extensive range of choice for trips, including different durations, daytime, evening and nighttime trips, Tromsø has an experience to offer to everyone wanting to try this sport!
A great destination for seeing the Northern Lights, Tromsø is world-famous for being a magical destination to visit. Try your hand at mushing and guiding your own dogs, or why not start your day off right with a morning dog sled ride, driving through the Norwegian tundra. Go on an evening excursion and try your luck at seeing one of the wonders of the world, the Northern Lights. If you’re wanting an expansive tour of Northern Norway, pulled by these gorgeous animals, try a 6-day excursion, guided by professional dog sled racers, leading you all the way to Sweden, or Finland depending on conditions. Dog sledding activities in Tromsø hosts an great number of tailor-made options. And if you wish to read more, don’t miss our article on all you need to know about dog sledding in Tromsø.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Let’s stay in Lapland, this time in Finnish Lapland. One of the best spots to go dog sledding in this region is definitely Rovaniemi, the second-largest city of Northern Finland, also called the home of Santa Claus. Whether you look for a family self-drive or a family safari, you will have the chance to test in all in the magical Santa's village. Moreover, dog sledding is deeply rooted in the Sami culture, the indigenous people of Lapland. Engaging in this activity offers a glimpse into their traditional way of life and their deep connection with nature. Many dog sledding tours are operated by local guides who provide insights into the history, culture, and environment of the region.
The many dog sledding itineraries in Rovaniemi allow you to discover the magical arctic landscapes in the way that suits you best. Choose the Northern Lights version to combine dog sledding with the hunting of the beautiful Aurora Borealis, or drive the sleigh yourself during a 1-hour excursion through the Arctic forests. You won't be disappointed, Rovaniemi is well-equipped for tourism, with a range of accommodations, restaurants, and other amenities.
La Mongie, Pyrénées
Go dog sledding in La Mongie, close to Bagnères de Bigorre, and experience the Pyrenees in a completely different way! As soon as the slopes close, come meet the dogs of No Speed Limit under the Pic du Midi in La Mongie, and then head out on an incredible adventure deep into the Pyrenees. The resort won't hold any more secrets for you, thanks to your knowledgeable instructor who is well-versed in the area. Your journey will begin at the base of the Pic du Midi cable car and continue below the Tourmalet pass by crossing La Mongie 1800.
This is the ideal time to take in the views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, which include the Grand Tourmalet ski area, Pic du Midi, and La Mongie. So prepare your camera and take in some breathtaking scenery! Your journey will have two breaks in breathtaking locations at the base of the Pic du Midi, in time with the Alaskan Huskies! What's more, your instructor will share his passion with you during the excursion! He will fill you in on all the details you need to know about the life of the dogs and how mushing operates. La Mongie is only one of several places where you can go dog sledding in France.
Akureyri, Iceland
With its unique landscapes – from glaciers, to volcanos, lagoons and black beaches – Iceland is paradise for many outdoor activities and thus no exception when it comes to dog sledding in Europe. Experience the unique feeling of being pulled by a pack of dogs whilst riding a sled in the Northeastern region of Iceland, just below the polar circle! You will be able to admire the longest fjord in north-central Iceland: the Eyjafjörður fjord. High mountains, some of which rise to elevations of more than 1,000 meters. Gunnar and María's huskies from goHusky are waiting for you in this town, which has a subarctic climate, for your dog-sledding adventure in Akureyri.
In the winter, you may get to experience the amazing phenomena of the Northern Lights. If you have ever wanted to experience sliding through snowy Icelandic landscapes, head to Akureyri for a dog sledding experience and discover the wonderful panoramas that this part of Iceland has to offer!
Avoriaz, Portes du Soleil
During a two-hour introduction to dog sledding in Avoriaz, you will learn how to manage and lead a team of two or three sled dogs. This charming mountain resort offers the perfect backdrop for an amazing mushing experience. It is well-known for its snow-capped peaks and stunning views. With the help of a group of enthusiastic and well-trained huskies, you will glide through immaculate, snow-covered trails. Families and adventure seekers will find the experience appealing as it blends the thrill of mushing with the tranquil beauty of the alpine setting.
Meeting your four-legged friends at the start of the experience will allow you to bond over a few shared moments. Your little procession of sledges will set off for a two-hour ride after all the Huskies have been fitted with harnesses and tied up in groups. During the ascents and descents, you will need to assist your team of dogs. Your first-hand experience of leading a sled dog team in Avoriaz, Portes du Soleil.
Kiruna, Sweden
Back to Lapland again, because it is simply the most beautiful region for dog sledding in Europe. With its pastel-colored wooden houses, Kiruna is a typical Lapland city and has become a gateway to the Swedish Arctic Region in recent years.
Just like in Finnish and Norwegian Lapland, you can find all kinds of dog sledding tours in Kiruna – from day excursions between 2 and 5 hours to night tours and multi-day excursions. And contrary to what you might have in mind, you can also do a dog sledding experience in summer in Kiruna. The dogs are just as excited in the warmer months and instead of a sleigh you will use a simple cart. And instead of the Northern Lights, you might live the impressive midnight sun!
Which is your next dog sledding spot ?
We know, maybe we have not made your choice easier with our above list of the best spots for dog sledding in Europe. But be reassured, whichever you choose, you will have a great time with amazing sled dogs and live an experience that you won’t forget so soon. Have a look at all our dog sledding activities in Europe and all over the world.
Maybe you wish to get some more information on mushing before you book your excursion. Our articles on dog sledding will answer your most important questions on this activity and give you some handy tips. And maybe you prefer first to observe the others do dog sledding before launching yourself? In that case, don’t miss the top 5 dog sledding movies ever made.