Practical guide to Sälen - map, flights, healthcare, beaches and important travel information

Sälen is one of Sweden's best-loved mountain areas, a destination that welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Despite its size, Sälen is surprisingly well organised and easy to navigate - once you understand the layout of the area. This handy guide will give you all the information you need to make your stay as smooth and enjoyable as possible, whether you're planning a winter adventure or a summer stay in the mountains.

The right practical knowledge can be the difference between a good and an exceptional mountain experience. From how to get to Sälen, to where to find medical care in case of an accident, to where to enjoy a relaxing swim - we've got everything you need to know in one place. With good planning, you can focus on what really matters: creating memorable moments in the magnificent mountain environment.

Sälen is a destination for all seasons, with each season offering its own unique experiences. Winter skiing gives way to the long, sun-drenched days of spring, the hiking trails of summer and the colourful mountain scenery of autumn. With the right preparation, you can fully enjoy all that the Sälen has to offer, no matter when you choose to visit this gem of the Swedish mountains.

Sälenfjällen consists of several distinct areas that together form one of Sweden's largest winter destinations. To understand Sälen, you first need to understand how these areas relate to each other. The main areas are Lindvallen, Högfjället, Tandådalen and Hundfjället, all of which are operated by SkiStar and are within a few kilometres of each other. A little further away you will find Stöten (about 20 km north of Lindvallen) and Kläppen (about 15 km south of Lindvallen).

Lindvallen is the largest and most family-friendly area, perfect for families with children with its wide, easy-to-ride slopes and extensive range of services. Högfjället, next door, is smaller but offers a more traditional mountain feel, centred around the historic Högfjällshotellet hotel. Tandådalen and Hundfjället, linked by lift systems, offer more varied skiing, from child-friendly areas to more challenging pistes.

The distances between the areas are important to understand for your planning. From Lindvallen to Tandådalen/Hundfjället it is about 8 km by car. Between Lindvallen and Högfjället you can ski directly via connecting lifts and slopes. During the high season, there is a ski bus service between the areas, making it easy to explore the whole of Sälen even without a car.

The villages Sälen and Transtrand are located in the valley below the mountain facilities and offer additional services such as grocery stores, liquor stores and other community services. From these villages it is about 10-15 km up to the mountain facilities.

The choice of accommodation location affects your entire stay. For families with children who prioritise skiing, accommodation with ski-in/ski-out in Lindvallen or Tandådalen is often optimal. For those looking for more privacy and proximity to cross-country tracks, accommodation in the High Mountain area may be preferable. If you want to be close to a wide range of restaurants and entertainment, the areas around Sälfjällstorget (Lindvallen) or Tandådalstorget are excellent choices.

A well-placed mountain accommodation can save hours of travelling time during a week's stay - time that can instead be spent experiencing the mountains. Think about which activities are your top priorities and choose your accommodation accordingly.

Travelling to Sälen has become increasingly convenient in recent years, with several transport options available depending on where you're travelling from and your preferences. Here's a rundown of the various possibilities:

Since 2019, Scandinavian Mountains Airport (also known as Sälen-Trysil Airport) is located only 10 minutes from Hundfjället. The airport is served during the winter season by SAS with direct flights from Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, Copenhagen and London. This option saves considerable travelling time for long-distance visitors and eliminates the need for a long drive on potentially slippery winter roads.

From the airport there are shuttle buses to all ski areas in Sälen, and it is also possible to rent a car directly at the airport. Book your transfer in advance via airline's website to ensure space, especially during peak season.

Car is still the most common way to get to Sälen, and offers great flexibility once on site. From Stockholm the journey time is approximately 5-6 hours, from Gothenburg 5-7 hours and from Malmö 8-9 hours. The main road to Sälen is the E16/road 66 which runs through Malung and on up to the mountain area.

During the winter season, good winter tyres are essential and snow chains can be useful for extra safety. Keep in mind that weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Keep yourself updated on weather forecasts and road conditions before departure.

For those who prefer public transport, there are several options. Fjällexpressen runs direct buses to Sälen from several cities in Sweden. From Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö, buses run several times a week during the high season.

Train travellers can go to Mora and from there take a connecting bus to Sälen. This is an environmentally friendly option, but it requires a little more planning and takes slightly longer than a direct bus or car.

Once in Sälen, there are several ways to get around. During the winter season, ski bus services run between the different ski areas, making it possible to explore the whole of Sälen even without a car. The buses are free of charge for guests with a valid SkiPass.

For transport between accommodation and slopes in the same area, there are often local ski bus services. In Lindvallen and Tandådalen these run at frequent intervals during the high season.

If you have your own accommodation without ski-in/ski-out facilities, a car is handy for transporting equipment to the slopes. All the ski areas have large car parks, but expect a parking fee during the high season.

Knowing where and how to get medical care in case of an accident is an important part of a safe stay in the mountains. Sälen has a well-developed medical structure, especially during the high season when the number of visitors multiplies.

Sälen has a health centre located in Sälen's village, about 10-15 minutes by car from the ski areas. During the winter season (December-April), the health centre is reinforced with extra staff and has extended opening hours to handle the increased number of visitors. Here you can get help with everything from simple injuries to acute medical conditions.

The medical centre in Sälen has X-ray equipment and can deal with many of the typical injuries that occur when skiing. For more serious cases, there is the possibility of ambulance transport to Mora Lasarett, which is the nearest hospital (about 1.5 hours drive from Sälen).

In case of medical emergencies, always call 112. Ski slopes have piste marshals who are trained in first aid and can assist in case of accidents. They also have equipment to transport injured skiers down the slopes.

Mountain rescue can be activated in the event of accidents in more inaccessible terrain outside the pistes. During the winter season, doctors are also stationed directly in the ski areas through SkiStar Medical, with clinics in both Lindvallen and Tandådalen.

Pharmacies are located in the village of Sälen and in the shopping centre at Sälfjällstorget in Lindvallen. During the high season, pharmacies have extended opening hours. If you take regular medication, make sure you bring enough for your entire stay plus a few extra days in case your return journey is delayed due to weather conditions.

Always make sure you have valid travel insurance when visiting Sälen. For foreign visitors from EU countries, it is important to bring the European Health Insurance Card (EU card) which entitles them to essential medical care under the same conditions as Swedish citizens.

For families with children, there are several safety measures in Sälen. The ski areas have special children's areas that are separated from the larger slopes. Lindvallen and Tandådalen also have ”Valles Trygghetsband” - bracelets with contact details that children can wear to make it easier to reunite with parents if they get separated.

With the right preparation and knowledge of where to go for help, you can feel safe during your stay in Sälen, whether you are travelling with small children, elderly family members or have special medical needs.

After an active day on the slopes or hiking trails, relaxation in the form of a bath and spa can be just what your body needs. The Sälen offers plenty of opportunities for both adventurous water experiences and quiet relaxation, whatever the season.

Experium in Lindvallen is Sälen's largest swimming and leisure centre. It has a large water park with water slides, a wave pool, children's pools and a relaxation area. The facility is open all year round and is a perfect option for activities on days with bad weather or when the body needs to recover from skiing.

In Tandådalen and Hundfjället there is the Poolarium - a smaller swimming facility with a swimming pool, children's pool and relaxation area. Stöten has its own swimming facility, Vattufjäll, with both water park and relaxation area.

If you're looking for more relaxation and less water noise, there are several spas in Sälen. O'Learys Spa in Experium offers treatments, a sauna and a relaxation pool with mountain views. The High Mountain Hotel has its own spa area with both treatments and relaxation facilities.

Many of the larger hotels and holiday villages have their own smaller spa and relaxation areas. If you're staying in a private cottage or apartment, check for sauna facilities - many properties in Sälen come with a private sauna as standard, allowing you to relax straight after the day's activities.

During the summer months, the Sälen area offers several natural swimming spots. Closer to Sälen village, there is Sälens Camping with a swimming area in Västerdalälven. For those who are not afraid of colder water, there are several mountain lakes where a dip can be refreshing after a hike, such as Hemsjön near Lindvallen.

Kalven, a small lake between Tandådalen and Hundfjället, has a nice swimming area that is popular on hot summer days. The water warms up relatively quickly in the shallower mountain lakes, but still expect fresher temperatures than in lakes in southern Sweden.

Combining active days with relaxing baths and spas creates a balanced mountain experience. After a day on the slopes or hiking trails, a hot bath or sauna session provides much-needed recovery for tired muscles.

For families with children, the water park is an excellent complement to other activities - especially on days with bad weather or when children need variety in their programme. Many families choose to schedule a visit to the pool in the afternoon when energy levels start to drop after the morning's outdoor activities.

With the right planning, swimming and spas can become an integral part of your mountain experience, whether you're looking for fast-paced adventure or quiet relaxation.

Sälen is a destination that changes dramatically with the seasons. Each season offers its unique experiences and requires different preparations. Here's what you can expect during the different periods of the year:

Winter is the high season in Sälen with ski resorts, restaurants and activities fully open. The ski season usually starts in early December and lasts until mid or late April, depending on snow conditions.

During this period, all services are in full operation: ski schools, rentals, shops, restaurants and entertainment. Expect higher prices and the need for advance bookings for most things, especially during Christmas holidays, sports holidays and Easter.

Temperatures can range from a pleasant -5°C to a bitter -25°C, so pack warm clothes in layers. Days are short in December-January (light around 9-15) but get noticeably longer in March-April (light around 7-19).

Spring winter is a magical time in Sälen with longer days, often stable weather and great conditions for skiing. The sun warms the days while the nights are still cold, providing perfect conditions for both piste and cross-country skiing.

During this period, you can enjoy long lunches in the sun at one of the mountain restaurants. Pack both warm clothes for mornings and evenings and lighter clothes for sunny afternoons. High factor sunscreen is a must as the sun is strong in the mountains.

Many people prefer spring for their 1TP64 trip - prices are often slightly lower than in high season while snow conditions can be the best throughout the season.

Summer in Sälen offers a slower pace but still plenty of activities. Hiking, cycling, fishing and nature experiences take centre stage. The ski slopes turn into green slopes, some of which are used for downhill cycling.

Temperatures typically range from 10-25°C during the day, but can drop to 5-10°C at night. Pack for both warm days and cool evenings, as well as rain protection as the weather can change quickly.

The range of services is more limited than in winter, with fewer restaurants and shops open. It is mainly the facilities in Lindvallen and Högfjället that are open during the summer, while other areas may have limited services.

Autumn is the low season in Sälen, but it offers fantastic nature experiences with colourful mountain moors and crystal clear air. It's a perfect time for hiking, mushroom and berry picking or just relaxing in a peaceful setting.

Services are limited during this period, with many facilities closed in anticipation of the winter season. Some restaurants and shops are only open at weekends. Therefore, plan your stay carefully and shop for food in advance if you visit during weekdays.

Temperatures can range from a comfortable 15°C in September to near zero in November. First snow often comes in October-November, but permanent snow cover is usually established only in December.

No matter when you choose to visit Sälen, there are experiences to suit your season. With the right preparation and expectations, each season can offer its own special mountain magic. Read more about Sälen all year round for detailed information on specific activities for each season.

Mountain weather can change quickly and be much colder than in the rest of Sweden. Always pack according to the layer-on-layer principle: woollen or synthetic base layers, mid-layers for insulation, and outer garments that are wind and waterproof. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings and at night.

Bring extra mittens, socks and hats in winter - they often get wet and need changing. High factor sunscreen is necessary all year round as the sun is strong in the mountains, especially when it reflects off the snow. Read more about the weather in Sälen for current forecasts.

If you are planning to rent ski equipment, book in advance during high season to ensure availability of the right sizes. Many rental outlets now offer online pre-booking with delivery directly to your accommodation.

For cross-country skiing, check which trails are groomed and their difficulty level. Beginners should start with the flatter trails around Lindvallen or Tandådalen before venturing onto more hilly trails.

If you plan to go hiking in summer, invest in a good map and familiarise yourself with the trails in advance. Even simple day hikes require basic equipment such as a backpack with extra clothes, water and food.

Food prices in mountain shops are generally higher than in the rest of Sweden. Many people choose to bring basic groceries from home and supplement with fresh produce on site. The largest food shops are located at Sälfjällstorget (Lindvallen), Tandådalstorget and in Sälen's village.

During the high season, shops can be very busy, especially on arrival and departure days (usually Saturday-Sunday). If possible, plan larger purchases for weekdays.

For those who want to combine self-catering with dining out, there are everything from simple pizzerias to gourmet restaurants. Popular restaurants should be booked in advance, especially in high season.

Sälen is extremely popular during certain periods, notably the sports holidays (weeks 7-10), Christmas/New Year and Easter. Accommodation during these periods should be booked months in advance for best selection and price.

The same applies to ski schools, especially for children, which are often fully booked well in advance during the high season. Activities such as dog sledding, snowmobile safaris and some restaurant visits also require advance booking.

If you are travelling with a larger group or several families together, there are specific aspects to consider. Larger cabins with shared spaces can create a great social experience but also require more planning around cooking, sleeping and shared activities.

For larger parties, it may be worth considering catering for some meals to reduce logistical challenges. Several restaurants in Sälen also offer takeaway options that can be enjoyed in the cottage.

With good planning and the right expectations, your stay in Sälen will be an experience to remember. Balance activities with rest, and remember that your stay in the mountains should be relaxing - it doesn't have to be a packed programme every day to create precious memories.

The choice of accommodation in Sälen is more than just a matter of shelter - it can fundamentally affect your entire mountain experience. The right accommodation with the appropriate location, size and facilities sets the stage for a memorable stay, while the wrong choice can lead to unnecessary logistical challenges.

The location of accommodation in relation to activities is perhaps the most important factor to consider. For skiers, ski-in/ski-out location is often highly valued - the ability to step straight onto skis from the accommodation saves time and energy, especially for families with children.

For those who prioritise cross-country skiing, proximity to groomed trails may be more important than proximity to downhill slopes. Accommodation in the Högfjäll area or certain parts of Lindvallen often offers good access to cross-country tracks directly from the door.

Proximity to services such as restaurants, shops and activities should also be considered. Accommodation at Sälfjällstorget (Lindvallen) or Tandådalstorget provides easy access to a wide range of services, while more remote cottages offer more privacy but require a car for most errands.

The size and layout of the accommodation affects the social dynamics of the stay. For families or small groups, a compact apartment may be sufficient, while larger groups need more space to ensure everyone is comfortable.

In particular, consider the bedroom layout - do you need a single room, a double room or a loft? For families with young children, having bedrooms in close proximity to each other can be valuable, while adult friends may prefer more private sleeping spaces.

The common areas shape the social experience of staying in the mountains. A spacious living room with an open-plan kitchen and dining area creates natural gathering places where the day can be planned and experiences shared.

Bear in mind that mountain holidays often involve spending a lot of time indoors in the evenings and on days with bad weather. Well-planned communal areas with comfortable seating, plenty of space at the dining table and perhaps a play area for children will be particularly valuable.

The level of comfort in your accommodation affects how restorative your stay will be. After an active day on the slopes or on the trails, a hot sauna, comfortable beds and a well-equipped kitchen are factors that significantly enhance the overall experience.

Modern amenities such as fast Wi-Fi, dishwasher and washing machine can make a big difference to practical logistics, especially for longer stays or travelling with children.

For many, a fireplace or stove is an important part of the mountain experience - few things are more atmospheric than gathering around a crackling fire after a day in the mountains.

A thoughtful choice of accommodation can turn a good mountain holiday into an exceptional experience. By prioritising the aspects that are most important to your party - whether it's proximity to the slopes, spacious social areas or luxurious facilities - you'll create the best conditions for a memorable stay in the Sälen mountains.

A well-planned trip to Sälen provides the best conditions for a memorable mountain experience. By understanding the layout of the area, planning your trip there, knowing where medical facilities are available, and adapting activities according to the season, you can minimise stress and maximise enjoyment during your stay.

Sälen offers something for everyone - from world-class skiing and adventurous activities to tranquil nature experiences and relaxing spas. With the right practical information, you can tailor your stay to your preferences and needs, whether you're travelling with family, friends or a larger group.

As you move forward in your planning, consider exploring our experience guides for more detailed information on specific activities in Sälenfjällen. For those looking for the perfect accommodation, we recommend taking a closer look at our selection of high quality mountain chalets and apartments - carefully selected to give you the best possible base for your mountain experience.

Welcome to Sälen - where practical planning meets magical mountain experiences.