When the mountains turn green, Sälen turns into a big, peaceful adventure land for children. Its greatest strength is its proximity: you can stay at Sälfjällstorget or in Lindvallen and have cycling areas, playgrounds, cafés and trails within walking distance. Days are easily planned in short sessions - a bike ride in the morning, a fairytale trail after lunch, a swim in the afternoon - without the family having to sit in the car between each activity.
Cycling and fast-paced activities
Cycling is often the favourite. Lindvallen has junior zones, pump tracks and technical sections where children learn to brake, turn and roll over small obstacles at their own pace. The hire shop has children's bikes, helmets and guards so you don't have to lug equipment around, and staff are happy to help set up the right size. For older kids (and parents who want to keep up) there are lighter flow trails and electric MTBs that smooth out the slopes and make longer rides possible without the whining. Read more about cycling in Sälen during the summer.
Fairy tale trails & family walks
For those days when your legs should be walking instead of twirling, there are plenty of short, easy trails. Around Stensjön and on the soft plateaus of Hemfjället you can quickly reach views without it being steep, and Trollskogen in Hundfjället offers figures and little surprises that make every step exciting. A thermos, some biscuits and a nature bingo go a long way to turning a half-hour walk into a memory. For more tips on family-friendly trails, see Hiking in Sälen.
Water play, swimming & fishing
Water always beckons. Small lakes near Lindvallen are quickly warmed by the sun and suitable for short dips, and when the weather changes Experium over with slides, wave machine and hot pools. Those who want to be on the water can hire canoes or SUPs on the calm seals of Västerdalälven, and simple fishing with a rod or reel works well in many places (remember a fishing licence). For more inspiration on water activities, see fishing, horse riding & padel in Sälen.
Games, animals & summer events
Add summery ”interludes” such as mini golf, trampolines, pedal cars and ice-cream breaks at the market square, and the days almost pass by themselves. Visits to sheep farms and pony rides occur some weeks and are a cosy break between cycling and swimming. In high summer, there are also simple family events, markets and music sessions that give the evenings a little extra mountain feel. Keep an eye on the page Events in Sälen for up-to-date tips.
Practical tips for families
On a practical level, it's best to think in layers even in summer, pack a hat and sunscreen, bring mosquito repellent and let the kids choose between two short options instead of one long one. Book bikes well in advance during July, and have a ”rain plan” ready - cinema, bowling or just games in the cottage after a hot bath work perfectly as a variation. For comfortable accommodation with room for the whole family, see accommodation in Sälen.
Summary & related tips
All in all, the answer is clear: yes, Sälen is packed with summer activities for children. The pace is gentle, the distances short and the range wide enough for everyone in the family to find their favourite - every day of the holiday.
Discover more family activities and Adventures in Sälen or read about Sälen in summer. Combine your stay with Relax & Spa or the book dinner with private chef in the mountains for a perfect family evening.