Renting a cottage in Sälen means freedom, comfort and mountain experiences – but also personal responsibility. One of the most common questions when booking is whether you need insurance when renting a mountain cottage, and if so, what kind. The short answer is: yes, as a guest, you are responsible for having valid insurance coverage during your stay.
Whether you are travelling with family, friends or colleagues, insurance is essential for a safe stay. This is especially true in a mountain environment, where skiing, winter road conditions and activities involve greater risks than in everyday life. Here we explain what applies – and what you should consider before arriving at Sälen. When booking accommodation through, for example
accommodation in Sälen it is wise to review your insurance cover to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Who is responsible for insurance when renting a cottage?
When renting a cottage in Sälen, the same basic principle applies as for other private accommodation: guests are responsible for their own insurance. This means that the property owner or agent does not cover personal injury, accidents or loss of property affecting you or your party.
The property is normally insured by the owner, but that insurance covers the house itself and its construction – not the guest's personal risks. Should an accident occur while skiing, during transport or in connection with activities outside the house, it is always the guest's own insurance cover that applies.
This is particularly important to know when booking larger accommodations, such as when renting
large cottage in Sälen for several families or groups.
What insurance should you have when renting a cottage in Sälen?
There is no law that specifies exactly what insurance you must have, but in practice there are three types of cover that are strongly recommended: Home insurance Most Swedish home insurance policies include travel cover that also applies to domestic travel. This cover may include: Personal injury Accidents Theft or damage to personal property
Liability cover for damage you cause Always check: How long the travel cover is valid (usually 30–45 days) Whether there are any exceptions for winter sports Accident insurance Many people supplement their home insurance with separate accident insurance, especially for skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling. This can provide compensation for: Broken bones Disability Rehabilitation Travel insurance (for international guests) Guests from other countries almost always require separate travel insurance that covers: Medical care in Sweden Evacuation Liability claims
Skiing and activities – what about insurance?
Sälen is one of Sweden's largest ski areas, and skiing always involves a certain amount of risk. This applies both on the slopes and during activities such as: Snowmobile safaris Cross-country skiing Cycling during the summer months When booking activities through external organisers, their own terms and conditions usually apply, but personal insurance cover is still your responsibility as a participant.
If you are planning experiences such as
snowmobile safari in Sälen or guided tours, you should always: Check whether the activity requires special insurance Ensure that your own insurance covers the activity The organiser is responsible for safety during the activity – not for personal injuries outside their terms and conditions.
Damage in the cottage – what happens if something breaks?
A common misconception is that damage inside the cottage is always covered by the owner's insurance. In practice, the following applies: Normal wear and tear: covered by the landlord Damage caused by the guest: may be liable for compensation If, for example:
Furniture is damaged Interior decoration is destroyed Equipment is broken due to negligence ...this may be invoiced retrospectively. This is where the liability section of your home insurance is important, as it can cover compensation claims. This is particularly relevant in exclusive, high-standard accommodation, such as
luxury accommodation in Sälen, where equipment often has a higher value.
Companies, conferences and large groups
Different insurance conditions often apply to business trips, conferences and retreats in Sälen. Companies should check: Business travel insurance Liability insurance for staff Insurance for team-building activities Especially when booking
conference in Sälen or company accommodation, this is crucial. Here, it is always the company – not the accommodation provider – that is responsible for ensuring that the right insurance cover is in place.
Common misunderstandings about insurance in the mountains
Many guests make assumptions that are incorrect. Here are some common misconceptions: ❌ “The accommodation covers everything”
❌ “My insurance automatically covers all activities” ❌ “If something happens in the cabin, it’s not my responsibility” In reality, staying in the mountains is more like travelling than staying at home. Personal responsibility always applies – especially when it comes to activities, transport and group trips.
Checklist – what you should do before arrival
Before arriving at Sälen, we recommend that you:
Check that your home insurance travel cover is valid Ensure that skiing and winter sports are included Take out accident insurance if necessary Inform everyone in your party about their personal responsibility Review the booking terms and conditions for your accommodation This will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on the experience – not the risks.
A safe stay in the mountains begins with the right responsibility
Renting a cottage in Sälen is a fantastic experience – regardless of the season. However, the mountains place higher demands on planning and responsibility than many other destinations. By having the right insurance cover in place, you minimise the risks and can fully enjoy nature, skiing and community.
If you want to find accommodation with clear terms and conditions, high standards and professional service, you can explore
our houses in Sälen and book with confidence and complete transparency.
