High season in Sälenfjällen coincides with the time when the mountains are most alive - when families with children are on holiday, when the snow is at its best and the days are at their brightest. The great winter peak stretches from Christmas and New Year to Easter, with its absolute highlights during the sports holiday weeks (weeks 7-10) and Easter. The whole area is in action: ski slopes, restaurants, après-ski, activities and ski school - all at full capacity.
Winter peak season - from Christmas to Easter
Christmas and New Year fill cottages and hotels well in advance, often with their own special atmosphere of bonfires, lit fir trees and opening ceremonies. After the Epiphany, a lull settles in before sports law starts - the most intense weeks of the year. In the middle of that period, it also happens to be Vasalopps Week, making the area particularly lively around the Sälen village and the cross-country tracks. After that, the spring winter with longer days, more sun and still plenty of snow. Easter, whether early or late, will be the last big peak of winter, with skiing, events and sunbathing.
When is it calmer but still snow-safe?
There are several golden windows between the winter peaks. Weekdays in January, right after the Epiphany, offer fantastic conditions without crowds. The weeks between the sports holidays and Easter are also perfect for those who want sun, shorter lift queues and lower prices. During April, when the snow is still on the ground the end of the season with spring skiing in lighter clothing, lunch in a sun pit and a slower pace that many appreciate.
Summer and autumn peak season
In recent years, summer has also become its own high season. During July, especially weeks 28-31, the area is filled with walkers and cyclists who want to experience Sälen's healthy summer climate, long bright evenings and dry trails. Accommodation with a sauna, patio and proximity to activities - such as Sälengodset or Fjällgodset - are quickly booked up. August offers a smooth transition with a slower pace and bright colours. Autumn is generally the low season, with the exception of autumn holidays week 44 as more restaurants open and demand for accommodation rises again.
Book in time for popular periods
Travelling in high season means more restaurants open, longer opening hours and a wider range of activities - but also higher price levels. If you want to secure your first choice during Christmas, New Year or sports holidays, book up to a year in advance. Opt for Sunday-Thursday instead of Saturday-Saturday for better availability, or choose options such as Högfjället and Stöten if you want a shorter journey to the slopes but a quieter environment. Flexibility with arrival days can give both a better price and more choice.
Tips for those who want to avoid congestion
If you want to enjoy the mountains without the crowds, there are several smart options: the start of the season at the beginning of December when the artificial snow is on, January for silence and quality snow, the weeks between the sports holidays and Easter for sun and peace, and June and early August for outdoor activities in the summer. Also autumn in Sälen beckons with colour, tranquillity and low prices. Whenever you travel, planning is key to finding the right balance between life and tranquillity.
Executive summary
The high season in Sälen runs from Christmas and New Year through the sports holidays to Easter - and returns in July during the summer. This is when the mountains are at their most vibrant, the service is at its best and the activities are many. If you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy magical conditions, choose January, March or early autumn. Whatever the period, Sälen offers experiences that wear the season with pride.