Dalarna Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to planning your trip to Dalarna, Sweden including must-see attractions, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink, accommodations, and tips for safety and health.


Introduction to Dalarna

Located in the heart of Sweden lies the picturesque province of Dalarna. This region is steeped in history, bordered by lush forests, sparkling blue lakes, and picturesque villages that have remained relatively unchanged for centuries. Dalarna is often referred to as the heart and soul of Sweden, earning itself the nickname “the soul of Sweden” (“Sveriges sjalv”). The area is well known for its traditions, folk art, and handmade crafts. It is considered one of the most culturally significant areas that draw international tourists to Sweden.

List of Places to Visit in Dalarna

Whether you’re interested in nature and outdoor adventures or culture and history, Dalarna has something to offer everyone. Here is a list of must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Zorn Museum
  2. Carl Larsson-Garden
  3. Ornässtugan
  4. Visit the Dalarna Horse in Avesta
  5. Falun Mine

Natural Attractions of Dalarna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Lake Siljan
  2. Fulufjället National Park
  3. Sälen
  4. Rättvik Beach
  5. Orsa Bear Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dalarna

Dalarna is one of the best parts of Sweden for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer walking, hiking, biking, or skiing, you’re sure to find a route or trail that suits your fitness level and interests. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in the area include:

  1. Vasaloppet
  2. Fulufjället and Njupeskär
  3. Malingsbo-Kloten Nature Reserve
  4. Kungsleden Trail
  5. Bjursas Ski Center

Best Things to Do in Dalarna: Activities and Tours

From adrenaline-pumping activities like dog sledging and snowmobiling to cultural experiences, there are plenty of things to do in Dalarna. Here are some of the best things to do in Dalarna:

  1. Try a Swedish sauna and take part in traditional Midsummer celebrations.
  2. Go dog sledge racing through the snowy woods.
  3. Visit the Swedish Open-Air Museum in Falun.
  4. Explore the local pottery at the Rättvik Keramik workshop.
  5. Attend a Dalarna Dalecarlia concert.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dalarna

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Dalarna, here’s a sample itinerary that will ensure you make the most of your stay:

Day Destination Activities
1 Falun Visit the Falun Mine and view Carl Larsson’s home
2 Lake Siljan Explore the lake and visit nearby villages
3 Rättvik Enjoy the beach and visit local pottery workshops
4 Fulufjället National Park Hike to the Njupeskär waterfall and Fulufjället peaks
5 Avesta See the famous Dalarna Horse sculpture
6 Sälen Go skiing or explore the local nature reserves
7 Mora Visit the Zorn Museum and the Vasaloppet museum

Food and Drink Scene of Dalarna

Dalarna is renowned for its culinary specialties, mainly venison, lingonberries, saffron bread, and traditional Swedish dishes. Don’t miss these mouth-watering offerings:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Raggmunk - Potato pancakes served with bacon and lingonberry jam.
  2. Falukorv - traditional Swedish sausage with potato mash and lingonberry jam.
  3. Smörgåsbord - a traditional Swedish meal served buffet-style with various meat dishes, potatoes, fish, and salads.
  4. Toast Skagen - Toasted bread with shrimp, mayonnaise, and lemon.
  5. Kladdkaka - A traditional Swedish chocolate cake.

Local Beverages

  1. Glögg - swedish spiced wine served warm.
  2. Julmust - a popular non-alcoholic soda that is enjoyed around Christmas.
  3. Akvavit - the traditional Swedish schnapps, usually taken during celebrations.

Where to Stay in Dalarna: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dalarna has plenty of places to stay, ranging from rustic cabins and guesthouses to modern hotels and resorts. Here are some highly recommended accommodations:

  1. Dalecarlia Hotel and Spa
  2. Clarion Collection Hotel Bergmastaren in Falun
  3. Gamla Tekompaniet in Säter
  4. Leksand Resort & Camping
  5. Villa Countess Tott in Tällberg

What to Buy in Dalarna: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip to Dalarna is complete without some unique souvenirs to bring home. Here are some delightful local products that make for great gifts:

  1. Dala Horse souvenirs - the locally made wooden horse figurines.
  2. Handmade dhurrie rugs by Helmi’s Collection in Rättvik.
  3. Hand-painted ceramics from local workshops like the Rättvik Keramik workshop.
  4. Knitted hats and scarves from the Falu Rödfärgs paint factory.
  5. Try some locally made mustard from Österbloms as a gourmet souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Dalarna

Dalarna has a distinct culture, and locals feel a strong sense of pride in their traditions, which are visible in the region’s local clothes, dialects, folk festivals, and crafts. The most essential tradition of all is Midsummer. If you visit Dalarna during Midsummer, you will witness a celebration where locals gather around a pole dancing and singing.

Best Time to Visit Dalarna

The best time to visit Dalarna depends on your interests. Summer and winter are popular seasons to visit. During summer, the weather is warm, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to do. During winter, there is snow everywhere, and activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding are available. Between September-October, autumn brings the most beautiful colors and offers excellent hiking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dalarna

To ensure you have a great time during your trip to Dalarna, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  1. Respect local traditions and culture.
  2. Try to learn some basic Swedish phrases.
  3. Follow environmental rules and recycle properly.
  4. Always carry a water bottle with you and refill from local taps to minimize plastic pollution.
  5. Bring warm clothes if you’re visiting during winter.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter in nature.
  2. Don’t be loud or shout in public areas.
  3. Don’t enter private property or show disrespect to locals or visitors from another country.
  4. Don’t jaywalk; use crosswalks instead.
  5. Don’t leave tips at restaurants; it is not a common practice in Sweden.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dalarna

Dalarna, like most places in Sweden, is generally safe. However, here are some general safety tips to keep in mind:

  1. Always wear reflective clothing if you are out walking or cycling at night or during the winter months.
  2. Do not drink and drive.
  3. Do not leave belongings unattended in public areas.
  4. Follow signage and instructions, especially if you are participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Dalarna

The health care service in Dalarna is of high quality. It is always advisable to have health insurance from your home country if you are traveling abroad. Over-the-counter medicines are available at Apoteket pharmacy.

Getting to Dalarna: Transportation Options and Logistics

Dalarna is accessible either by flight or by road.

Airports Near Dalarna

  1. Stockholm Arlanda Airport
  2. Stockholm Skavsta Airport

Bus Stations Near Dalarna

  1. Stockholm Central Bus Station
  2. Falun Central Bus Station

Other Options

You can rent cars at the airport or travel by train through the region.

How to Get Around in Dalarna

Here are some reliable transportation options for getting around in Dalarna:

  1. Local buses and trains
  2. Rent a bicycle
  3. Rent a car
  4. Taxis-booking done through an app like Uber-Taxi

Where to Go Next from Dalarna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Stockholm
  2. Gothenburg
  3. Uppsala
  4. Borlänge
  5. Leksand

Conclusion

Dalarna, Sweden, is an idyllic destination for anyone interested in nature, culture, and history. Its proximity to local airports, public transit options, and comprehensive tourism infrastructure make it an ideal spot for travelers looking to get off the beaten track while still enjoying the comforts of modern-day life. Plan your trip accordingly and take advantage of all that Dalarna has to offer.

One of many lakes in Dalarna surrounded by summer-houses One of many lakes in Dalarna surrounded by summer-houses


    Dalabergslagen
    Siljansbygden
    Västerdalarna