Markbygden

Långträsk

Långträsk is a small locality in Piteå municipality, nestled within the Markbygden area. It lies along the main railway line running through northern Sweden, equidistant from Piteå and Arvidsjaur, accessible via County Road 373. The journey to central Piteå takes about 45 minutes. The village is situated roughly 3 km south of the Åby River, offering opportunities for fishing throughout the year, with catches ranging from pike and perch to grayling and trout. During summers and autumns, the vast forests provide endless hiking opportunities and berry-picking, with blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries abundant.

If you seek tranquility, Långträsk is your haven, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, with only 77 residents. The village boasts a convenience store named "Handlarn" where you can purchase essential goods. Adjacent to the store, you'll find a gas station for your convenience. For those with caravans or motorhomes, Norrskensgården's campground offers overnight accommodations. Långträsk is also home to a well-preserved and beautiful wooden church, inaugurated in 1901, still in use today. Sports enthusiasts and families with children can enjoy the village's sports field, which accommodates various ball games. Presently, the largest wind power park in Europe is being established in the Markbygden area, providing employment opportunities nearby.

Winter provides boundless snowmobiling possibilities, allowing you to explore lakes for fishing or simply relaxation. The village is renowned for its excellent snowmobile trails, including the Nasaleden trail that passes through Långträsk. A snowmobile treasure hunt is organized every spring, along with other activities.

Koler

Nestled between Storsund and Långträsk, Koler is a small village located approximately 5.5 miles from Piteå's city centre, with a driving time of about 40 minutes. The village is home to 55 residents who cherish the peaceful surroundings away from the city. For shopping needs, the nearest grocery store is in Långträsk, around 2 miles away. If you value peace and serenity, far from the crowds, Koler is the right place for you. For major shopping trips, you can drive to Piteå or, for a closer option, head to Älvsbyn, located just over 4 miles from Koler.

Koler is marked by a strong sense of community and enthusiasm. The villagers are highly motivated and dedicated to launching and executing development initiatives that benefit the entire region. For a long time, the village has been engaged in various development projects aimed at enriching its attractive living environment, providing employment opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship. Notably, Europe's largest wind power park is currently being established in the vicinity, offering excellent employment prospects.

The Koler Interest Association owns several facilities in the village and is responsible for their upkeep. At the beach, you will find a wood-fired sauna, changing rooms, a grill hut, and barbecue areas. Nearby, there's a charcoal burner's hut. A tennis court with asphalt surfacing and a boules court are also available. During the winter months, there are daylight skiing tracks, in addition to snowmobile trails to destinations such as Långträsk. For those settling in the village, there are resources and opportunities for fitness training.

If you choose to move here, you will have access to the abundant natural resources offered by the forests and nature. Fishing, berry picking, and hunting are available, along with the pleasure of enjoying warm summer days by the water, and fine fishing for those inclined. Winters provide excellent snowmobile trails and beautiful days.

Storsund

Storsund, a village with fewer than 50 residents, is located approximately 6 miles from central Piteå and takes about an hour's drive to reach. Three miles from Storsund is Älvsbyn, where you can shop for groceries. Storsund to Koler is approximately 0.8 miles, taking just over ten minutes by car. The village is surrounded by beautiful lakes and forests, offering opportunities for fishing, hunting, and berry-picking. In the village, you will find Norrbotten,s Car disassembly, offering a wide range of parts, recycling, and reuse materials at reasonable prices. During the winter, there are excellent snowmobile trails, including routes to Koler.

The village hall has a tranquil and scenic location by the water. The operation and rental of the village hall, its cabins, and other spaces are managed by the Storsund non-profit village association. The village hall has three beds, and the cabins with a view of the lake have five beds split between two rooms. There's access to a shared, fully equipped kitchen and toilet/shower facilities. The village association aims to revitalize the village, providing a beautiful beach with a wood-fired sauna, grill hut, and barbecue areas. There is also the option to rent caravan spaces for those who wish to stay.

Beyond Piteå, in Markbygden, foundations are currently being cast for one of Europe's largest wind power parks. With over 300 wind turbines currently spinning in the forests west of Piteå, more are on the way. The plan is to have 1,101 wind turbines in Markbygden, offering ample employment opportunities for those seeking proximity to their workplace.

By Ellen Andersson and Agnes Lundström