New Year in Sälenfjällen is a whole week of anticipation, celebration and winter magic. As early as midday, the valleys are filled with families with children at ski school and groups of friends looking for the first perfect run of the season. The evenings are filled with après-ski, spas and chalet cosiness by the light of bonfires and snowfall. This is one of the most popular weeks of the year, with pressure on everything from restaurants to lift passes - so planning ahead is key to a hassle-free New Year.
The rhythm of New Year's week in the mountains
The days around New Year follow a clear rhythm. The morning is devoted to skiing when the snow is at its best and the sun rises over the mountain ridge. After lunch, the pace changes to calmer skiing, sauna or spa before the evening takes over. Many guests celebrate with dinner in the cabin or book a table at a mountain restaurant - often with fixed New Year menus and wine packages. If you want to make the evening extra special, you can book private chef in the cottage who will organise several dishes, set the table and serve while you just enjoy.
Twelve o'clock in the mountains
At midnight, visitors gather at Sälfjällstorget, Högfjället or Tandådalen where official fireworks light up the valley. Temperatures can drop considerably - sometimes below -15°C - so warm layers, shoes and gloves are a must. Many areas discourage private rockets, so the communal shows become natural focal points. For families with children or dog owners, a remote viewing point is ideal for watching the fireworks in a quieter environment.
Activities before and after New Year
The day after the celebration is often a soft start: cross-country skiing, walking to Trollskogen or bathing at Experium Adventure pool. When the energy returns, there are plenty of options - ranging from snowmobile safari and snowshoeing to wine tasting and chef-led dinner evenings. Accommodation such as Sälengodset, Fjällgodset and Olarslodgen provides plenty of space for socialising and big New Year dinners.
Planning and logistics
New Year's week requires advance planning. Lift pass, ski school, Rental equipment and tables are often booked several weeks - sometimes months - in advance. Book accommodation as early as spring if you're aiming for the most sought-after houses. If you come by car, expect winter road conditions and extra travelling time; if you fly to Scandinavian Mountains Airport, pre-book transfers or taxis well in advance. Shop for basic goods early in the day or order breakfast delivery and dinner bags to avoid queues.
Clothing guide for New Year celebrations
Dress in layers: woollen base layer, fleece mid layer and windproof shell jacket on top. Bring warm-lined shoes, woollen socks and hand warmers - especially if you plan to be outside at midnight. Don't forget a hat and a buff; temperatures can drop quickly when the wind blows across the bare mountains. For indoor dinners and parties, many people opt for comfortable but stylish mountain-style garments - knitwear, suede and natural materials blend in well with the environment.
Executive summary
New Year's Eve in Sälen is more than a night out - it's a week of skiing, atmosphere and great food. Whether you want to celebrate with a party, a leisurely luxury dinner or a quiet family twelve o'clock in the chalet, everything is in place. With the right planning, New Year's Eve will be both smooth and memorable - a perfect start to the year, amidst the winter magic of the mountains.