Mountain weather can change quickly, but in Sälenfjällen there are clear patterns that favour the chances of sunshine - and spring winter is undoubtedly the king of the season. After January, when days are short and low pressure passes frequently, the sun starts to take over from mid-February. Nights remain cold while days become longer and drier. This combination - cold nights, stronger sunshine and more stable high pressure - means that March (weeks 9-12) almost always has the most clear days. These are the classic “sun weeks” that many people book well in advance, sometimes extending to weeks 13-14 if Easter falls late.
Why March is the sunny month of the mountains
It's not just the number of hours of sunshine that makes March special, but the experience of light. The dry, clear air makes the light crisp, the snow reflects the sun's rays and enhances the feeling of spring. The winds are often milder than in high winter, creating the classic spring-winter feeling: morning skiing on firm slopes, lunch in a sun pit and softer “sherbet” weather in the afternoon. If you want to maximise the chances of sunshine while skiing, choose south or south-west facing slopes - they catch the light earliest in the day and stay warm the longest.
Other periods of sunny weather
By the end of February (weeks 8-9), the chances increase significantly, and spring winter March-April offers stable weather with longer days. In April, the light is at its longest and the nights are still cold, making the snow firm in the morning and soft in the afternoon - perfect for skiing at the end of the season. December-January may offer blue, sparkling high-pressure days, but the sun is low and the days are short. That's why February to April is the most reliable period if you want to chase sun in the mountains.
Tactics to get the most sun
Want to get the week right? Aim for v. 9-12 - statistically the best combination of light, cold and high pressure. Mid-February is also a strong candidate for cold nights and clear air. Follow the weather forecasts a week before departure and focus on pressure patterns and wind direction rather than exact temperatures. South-facing accommodation with large windows, patios or outdoor spas - such as Sälengodset and Fjällgodset - allows you to collect sunshine hours even off the slopes. For skiing, south-facing slopes provide longer sun windows; for cross-country skiing and hiking, open mountain ridges are less prone to fog than valleys.
How to maximise your days of sunshine
Sunglasses or goggles with UV filters are a must - snow reflects light strongly. Wear sunscreen on your nose, cheeks and ears, even at freezing temperatures. Wear thin, breathable layers in the middle of the day, but bring an extra midlayer for shaded areas and windy peaks. Plan your day around the snow: firm pistes in the morning, softer and more playful after lunch. Have lunch in the shelter, preferably in a sun pit or on the terrace, and end the afternoon with something warming in your hand. That way you'll capture the best hours of spring in the mountains.
Executive summary
If you want sun in Sälen, March is your month. From mid-February to early April, the light is bright, the days long and the weather stable. Choose south-facing slopes, accommodation with a terrace and follow the high pressure - and you'll experience the classic mountain feeling: sparkling snow, clear blue skies and sun on your face all day.