Being a seasoned skier, I normally head for the French or Swiss Alps in winter. Iconic peaks, world-class pistes and a lively apres ski atmosphere keep me coming back year after year.

But eager to try something different, I agreed to pack my salopettes and head to Scandinavia.

Sweden is not so well known as a ski destination. There are, however, 13 major ski resorts in the northern region often referred to as the Swedish Alps, mostly clustered around its central-western border with Norway.

Located in Jamtland, Sweden’s second largest province, Are is Scandinavia’s main mountain city. The most noticeable difference skiing here compared to France or Switzerland is the terrain.

Similar to the Scottish Cairngorms, the black, tree-covered, Neolithic-looking mounds are a sharp contrast to the jagged peaks which reach as far as the eye can see in the southern European Alps. The slopes are also much quieter and lift queues were nonexistent.

What really sets Are apart from other ski destinations is the variety of non-ski activities on offer. The scenery here is magical and natural wonders provide ample entertainment. I was lucky enough to witness the aurora borealis (northern lights), which appeared as a strange beam of light stemming from the horizon into the dusky sky.

  • Tori Mayo was a guest of Visit Are, Sweden and Neilson Holidays who offer seven nights’ at the 3-star Are Fjallby Apartments in Are Village from £379pp. Price includes return flights from London Heathrow, return resort transfers and accommodation. For more info or to book, visit www.neilson.co.uk or call 0845 070 3460.