How to find the right accommodation for large families in Sälen
The right accommodation for a large family in Sälen determines how smooth and enjoyable your week will be. What makes the biggest difference is not just the number of beds but the layout, everyday logistics and location in relation to slopes, ski school, cross-country trails and eateries. A well thought-out mountain chalet or villa allows everyone to get ready at the same time in the morning, accommodates communal dining without crowding, and has clear zones where children can play while adults unwind. When comparing options, start with three basic questions: how many separate bedrooms are needed for everyone to sleep well, how many full-size bathrooms are enough to avoid queues, and how big do the dining and living areas need to be to allow you to gather comfortably after a long day out.
Cottages and villas with plenty of space
Premium cottages with 10 to 21 beds are built specifically for large groups. There are often master suites for parents or grandparents, bedrooms with bunk beds for children, and guest or loft spaces that provide flexibility when the composition varies. Kitchens are sized for many, with double dishwashers, large fridges and freezers, and plenty of worktop space, so cooking is quick and part of the experience. Living rooms with high ceilings, fireplaces and generous sofa groups mean that the evening is not split into small rooms. A private sauna and outdoor jacuzzi are appreciated options, especially when some want to continue outdoor activities while others prefer to relax at home.
Options for families who want services
For families who want services closer to hotel level, apartment hotels and lodges are ideal. You'll have modern one- to three-bedroom apartments with your own kitchen and access to a lift, reception, restaurant and sometimes a spa. This arrangement means short distances to the rental and ski school, saving you time each morning. It is particularly useful if children are going to different groups at the same time and equipment needs to be adjusted. The downside is that the space per person may be smaller than in a detached villa, but on the other hand logistics are simple and everything is within a few minutes' walk.
Best areas for large families
The choice of area affects everyday life more than you might think. Lindvallen is a safe place for mixed groups with children, thanks to several squares with lifts, shops and restaurants gathered in a small area. If you stay here, some people can go home early without the whole group having to stop skiing. Tandådalen is strong for families where adults want more skiing and a quick link to Hundfjället, so you can spread out over two systems without hassle. Hundfjället attracts with playful children's areas and classic challenges for the most experienced, making it easy to stay together despite different levels. Stöten often offers longer runs, plenty of ski-in ski-out and a slightly slower pace, which is appreciated when many people have to share lifts, restaurants and car parks.
Practical features that make everyday life easier
Look closely at practical details. A washing machine and tumble dryer, drying cabinet and boot warmer ensure clothes and equipment are dry for the next day, saving both time and mood. A spacious utility room with benches and hooks makes dressing and undressing easy and keeps the rest of the house dry and clean. Storage is more crucial than you might think; an extra wardrobe or storeroom can make the difference between a tidy or chaotic living room. Parking at the house, preferably with electric car charging facilities, will make arrival and departure easier when travelling with a lot of luggage.
Child-friendly and safe environment
Child-friendliness is about both the interior and the surroundings. A floor plan where the kitchen, dining area and living room are connected allows parents to keep an eye on them while dinner is being prepared. A soft rug in the TV corner and a side table for games and puzzles extend the evening without anyone having to muffle their voices. Outside, it is an advantage if the plot is free from through traffic, has a flat surface for sledging and is away from steep stairs. Proximity to children's slopes and ski school makes the start of the day calmer, and you avoid long journeys with tired legs.
Plan well in advance
Budgets and calendars determine the availability of the best properties. The biggest houses go first for weeks like Christmas, New Year, sports holidays and Easter. If you are looking for a specific house or location, make an enquiry early and ask about availability when the next season is released. Also be prepared to choose Sunday-Sunday or Thurs-Sun if it suits the rhythm of the house; flexibility can be the difference between the dream house and the compromise. Low and mid-season opens up more room in the budget, long weekends and sometimes late check-outs, making the journey home more relaxed and extending the feeling of holiday.
Check details before booking
Before you press book, ask for a complete breakdown: exact number of beds and bedrooms, number of full-size bathrooms, seating at the dining table, kitchen equipment, floor plan, distance in metres to lifts, cross-country trails and ski bus, and what is included in cleaning, linen and towels. Ask for a welcome folder with instructions for the heating system, spa, rubbish collection and emergency numbers. The clearer the picture is before arrival, the easier it will be to allocate rooms, plan dinners and set expectations for the pace of the week.
Executive summary
The bottom line is simple: large families do best in accommodation that's built for many and where the logistics are in place. Choose a spacious mountain chalet or a well-planned lodge close to the slopes and services, prioritise multiple bathrooms, decent social areas and smart functional rooms, and book well in advance for the most popular weeks. With the right framework in place, you'll get more hours on snow, fewer unnecessary steps, and evenings that actually accommodate the whole party around the same table.
For large families who want to travel in comfort, we recommend Fjällgodset and Sälengodset - both with generous spaces and many bedrooms. Read more about family activities in Sälen, discover hiking and cycling for the whole family or combine accommodation with spa and relaxation after today's adventure.