Kalix

Kalix is a locality and the seat of Kalix Municipality in Norrbotten County, Sweden. It lies on the Gulf of Bothnia at the mouth of the Kalix River (Kalixälven) and is part of the historical province of Lapland. The town serves as the administrative center for the municipality, which includes coastal settlements, farmland and boreal forests across a mix of urban and rural areas.

The Kalix River valley is notable for fisheries and outdoor recreation. The coastal area and archipelago along the Gulf of Bothnia host nature reserves, traditional wooden houses, and a market town character. The climate is subarctic, with long, cold winters and relatively mild summers, and daylight varies significantly with the seasons.

Economy in the region combines forestry, small-scale industry, retail and public services. Tourism focuses on nature, fishing, and cultural heritage. A notable regional product is Kalix löjrom, a protected designation of origin for vendace roe harvested near Kalix, recognized as a high-quality seafood specialty.

Historically, the area has been inhabited for centuries, with Sámi and other populations contributing to the cultural landscape. The municipality maintains museums and local events that celebrate regional history and nature, and it supports communities across urban centers and rural districts.

Kalix is connected by road and rail to other parts of northern Sweden and to Finland, reflecting its position along regional transport networks and its role as an administrative center for the surrounding countryside.