The winter break in Sälen is one of the most sought-after periods of the winter and coincides with guaranteed snow, fully open ski areas and a wide range of activities for the whole family. Since the Swedish winter break is spread over several weeks – usually between weeks 7 and 10 – the flow of guests is also spread out over time. This means that Sälen is lively and well-visited, but rarely chaotic. With the right planning, it is possible to combine the energy of the winter break with quiet moments, good skiing and a high level of comfort.
During the winter break, there is increased pressure on accommodation, roads, lifts and restaurants, especially in the most central areas. At the same time, this is also when the service is at its best: more lifts are open, ski schools are in full swing and children's areas are buzzing with activity. For many families, the winter break is the week when everything comes together – skiing, accommodation, food and experiences.
Are there a lot of people in Sälen during the school holidays?
Yes, the winter break is a popular period and there are more guests in Sälen than during normal winter weeks. However, the congestion is rarely evenly distributed. The biggest peaks often occur on Saturdays when guests arrive and change accommodation, as well as in lift queues between 9 and 11 a.m. and immediately after lunch. By adjusting your times and movement patterns, you can experience the slopes as both spacious and well-functioning.
If you prioritise a smooth flow, the choice of area is crucial. Lindvallen and Hundfjället attracts many families with children thanks to its large children's areas and ski schools, while Högfjället and parts of Soldering often perceived as calmer, even during the holiday weeks. There are therefore clear opportunities to choose your environment according to your temperament and travel companions.
How to avoid congestion on the slopes
The simplest strategy for reducing queues is to ski when others are not. The first hour after the lifts open often offers freshly groomed slopes and minimal queues. Lunchtime, when many people take a break, and the last hour before closing are also surprisingly quiet. Evening skiing, where available, is another way to get more space on the slopes.
Living close to the slopes makes a big difference. With a accommodation close to skiing you can easily split the day into several shorter sessions and avoid the rush altogether. Many also choose to ski in the outlying areas of the system, where the pressure is lower but the skiing experience is just as good.
Accommodation – the key to a successful sports holiday
During the winter break, accommodation is more than just a place to sleep. It serves as a base, a place to relax and a social gathering point. That Rent a holiday home in Sälen provides flexibility, ample space and the opportunity to establish your own routines – something that is invaluable when travelling with others.
Larger groups and families with children often choose large cottages in Sälen where everyone can fit without crowding. For those who want to combine skiing with extra comfort, there is also luxury accommodation in Sälen with a sauna, spa and generous communal areas. When your accommodation is of a high standard, you can relax better – and enjoy a more harmonious week.
Book in advance for less stress
The winter break is peak season, which makes planning ahead extra important. Accommodation, SkiPass, ski school, equipment and restaurant bookings should be secured early. This is especially true if you are travelling with children or in a larger group. Alternative arrival and departure days, such as Sunday–Thursday, can also mean quieter travel days and better availability.
By planning the week in advance – who will collect the equipment, when will you have lunch, which days are rest days – you can avoid unnecessary stress. Read more about Sälen as destination and how the different areas differ before you make your decision.
Activities beyond skiing
Sports holidays at Sälen are not just about alpine skiing. There is a wide range of experiences for rest days or afternoons: sledging, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, spas, restaurants and guided winter activities. For families with children, variety is often the key to a successful week.
Feel free to explore activities & adventures in Sälen or plan something extra from our range of family activities. For companies and larger groups, there are also opportunities to combine sports holiday weeks with conference in the mountains.
Why the sports holidays are still worth it
Despite more visitors, many choose the winter break year after year – for good reason. The snow conditions are stable, the entire facility is in full operation and the atmosphere is lively. With the right accommodation, smart planning and realistic expectations, the winter break becomes not only manageable, but one of the absolute highlights of the winter.
The difference between a stressful and an enjoyable winter break rarely lies in how many people are there, but rather in how you spend your time, where you stay and the choices you make along the way.
Plan your sports holiday in Sälen: Sports holidays in Sälen • Rent a holiday home in Sälen • Accommodation in Sälen • Large cottages for families & groups • Activities & adventures