Sälen Travel Guide

A detailed travel guide for Sälen, including places of visit, hiking routes, activities, food and drink, accommodations, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Sälen

Sälen is a beautiful ski resort town located in Västerdalarna, in Dalarna, Sweden. It is famous for its breathtaking nature, outdoor activities, and skiing opportunities. Sälen belongs to the Svealand region in Sweden, situated in the middle of the country. The town is surrounded by forests, mountains, and clear water streams, making it a perfect vacation spot for nature lovers. In this comprehensive travel guide to Sälen, we will explore all the highlights of the city, including its natural beauty, cultural attractions, food and drink scene, local culture, and transport options.

List of Places to Visit in Sälen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dalarnas Museum: This is one of the most popular museums in Sälen and showcases the customs, traditions, and lifestyle of the people of Dalarna. The museum exhibits include traditional costumes, Sami handicrafts, and a collection of historical items.

Naturmuseum: The Naturmuseum is an ideal destination for nature lovers. The exhibitions in the museum showcase the flora and fauna of the region, as well as the geological formations that make Sälen unique.

Natural Attractions of Sälen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lindvallen: Lindvallen is a beautiful region in Sälen known for its excellent skiing facilities during winter. The beautiful landscapes around are stunning, and you can enjoy hiking and sight-seeing during the summer months.

Högfjället: Högfjället is another beautiful ski resort in Sälen that offers excellent skiing facilities during the winter months. During summer, you can enjoy hiking and sight-seeing.

Österdalälven: The Österdalälven is a crystal-clear river that flows through the town and provides a scenic view. The river is perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sälen

Grövelsjöfjällen: Grövelsjöfjällen is a popular hiking and biking trail in Sälen for experienced hikers. The route is 30km long and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Fjätervålen: Fjätervålen is another excellent hiking and biking route in Sälen that offers beautiful landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Sälen: Activities and Tours

Skiing: Sälen is famous for its skiing facilities. The town has several ski resorts that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers.

Snowmobile Safari: You can explore the beautiful landscapes of Sälen by taking a snowmobile safari.

Dog Sledding: If you want to experience the thrill of dog sledding, Sälen is the perfect place. You can enjoy a dog sled ride and explore the winter wonderland.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sälen

Here is a 7-day itinerary for Sälen:

  • Day 1-2: Skiing at Lindvallen
  • Day 3: Dog Sledding and Snowmobile Safari
  • Day 4: Visit to Dalarnas Museum and Naturmuseum
  • Day 5: Hike at Grövelsjöfjällen
  • Day 6: Relax and enjoy scenic views at Österdalälven
  • Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Sälen

Must-Try Dishes

Pea Soup and Pancake: This traditional Swedish dish is available in many eateries in Sälen. The dish is made with split peas, pork belly, and onion, served with whipped cream and lingonberry jam.

Meatballs: Swedish meatballs are another popular dish in Sälen made with beef and pork mince, served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and gravy.

Local Beverages

Sälen Beer: This is a locally brewed beer in Sälen, made with high-quality hops and malt.

Glogg: Glogg is a traditional Swedish drink made with red wine, spices, and almonds, served as a warm drink during cold winter nights.

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

Sälen has a wide range of accommodations suited for any budget. Here are some recommendations:

  • Lodge Gammelgården Sälen: A homely guesthouse that offers delicious breakfast and dinner, located in the heart of Sälen.

  • Tandådalen Hotel: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a spa, located near the ski resort.

  • Sälens Högfjällshotell: This luxurious hotel is located in the beautiful Högfjället region of Sälen.

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

Dalahäst: The Dalahäst, or Dala Horse, is a traditional Swedish souvenir found in Sälen, which is a wooden horse figurine painted in bright colors.

Sami Handicrafts: Sami handicrafts are traditional handicrafts made by the Sami people, and you can find them in many shops in Sälen.

Local Culture and Customs of Sälen

Sälen has a rich cultural heritage, and the Sami culture is an essential part of it. Sami people are an indigenous group in Sweden who have their own language, customs, and traditions. In Sälen, you can experience traditional Sami handicrafts, cuisine, and storytelling.

Best Time to Visit Sälen

The best time to visit Sälen is from December to April, during the winter months, when you can enjoy skiing and other winter activities. However, if you prefer to explore the nature and enjoy hiking, you can visit during the summer months from June to September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sälen

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Visit the museums and landmarks to learn about the region’s history and culture.

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in the streets.

  • Disturb wildlife and nature while hiking or exploring the landscapes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sälen

It is generally safe to travel to Sälen, but like any other destination, you should be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables safe and secure, especially in touristy areas.

Health in Sälen

There are no serious health concerns in Sälen, but it is always wise to carry basic medications and first aid kit during your travel. Make sure to have travel medical insurance.

Getting to Sälen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sälen

The closest airport to Sälen is Mora-Siljan Airport, which is located approximately 100km away.

Other different airports, such as Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Gothenburg Landvetter Airport, and Copenhagen Airport, are located over 300 km away.

Bus Stations Near Sälen

Sälen Busstation is located in the center of the town and provides regional bus services.

Other Options

You can also travel to Sälen by train or car.

How to Get Around in Sälen

You can get around in Sälen using public buses, rental cars, or by taxi. Alternatively, you can rent a bike and explore the beautiful landscapes of Sälen.

Where to Go Next from Sälen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mora: Mora is a small town located approximately 100km away from Sälen and known as the birthplace of the famous Swedish painter, Anders Zorn.

Orsa: Orsa is another beautiful town located approximately 80km away from Sälen, known for its stunning landscapes and the Orsa Bear Park, home to over 20 bears.

Conclusion

Sälen is a beautiful holiday destination located in the heart of Sweden, known for its excellent skiing facilities, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. In this travel guide, we have explored all the highlights of Sälen, from historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture and customs and transportation options. Sälen offers something for everyone during all seasons, and we hope this guide will help you plan your perfect trip to Sälen.