Imagine waking up to birds chirping and sunbeams dancing through the panoramic window. Outside, the mountain landscape spreads out in a palette of green and flowering colours. The air is crystal clear and filled with the scents of mountain heaths and pine forests. Spring and summer in Sälen offer a completely different experience from the familiar winter version - a magical time when nature comes to life and the mountains show their most colourful side.
In this guide, we take you on a journey through Sälen's spring and summer landscape. We explore the activities, nature experiences and accommodation that make this time of year so special. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation or a combination of both, there's something for you as the Sälen mountains turn from white to green.
What does a stay in the mountains mean in spring and summer?
To experience spring and summer in Sälen is to discover the mountains from a whole new perspective. As the snow melts, a landscape in transition is revealed - rippling streams of meltwater, budding mountain flowers and bright evenings that never seem to end.
The climate during spring and summer in Sälen is mild and pleasant. Spring (April-May) offers temperatures between 5-15°C with fresh mornings and increasingly warm days. Summer (June-August) is often perfect with 15-25°C - warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities but rarely sultry. Evenings are cool and perfect for saunas and socialising around a crackling fire.
The transformation of nature is spectacular. Where there used to be snow, there are now soft carpets of mountain avens, bluebells and cloudberries. Wildlife is active, with birdsong from early morning and opportunities to look out for moose, reindeer and other animals moving freely in the area.
Unlike winter holidays, where skiing often takes centre stage, spring and summer in Sälen offer a greater variety of activities. Instead of skis - hiking boots. Instead of ski tracks - bike trails winding through forests and over mountain ridges. The pace is different - more relaxed and with room for spontaneity.
5 reasons to travel to Sälen when the snow melts
- Flowering mountain heaths - Experience the short but intense mountain summer when the flowers explode in colour. From the first mountain anemones of spring to the cloudberries and blueberries of late summer, nature puts on a colourful show.
- Fantastic cycling routes – Summer activities in Sälen includes some of Sweden's best cycling trails. From family-friendly trails to challenging downhill tracks, there is something for every cyclist.
- Crystal clear mountain lakes - When the temperature rises, there's nothing more refreshing than a dip in a mountain lake. The ice-cold, crystal-clear water is an experience for all the senses.
- Magical evenings - Summer evenings in the mountains are very special. The light stays on long into the night, creating the perfect conditions for barbecues with spectacular views from the terrace of your chalet.
- Exclusive accommodation with a view – Accommodation with a view in Sälen takes on a whole new dimension in spring and summer when panoramic windows frame the verdant landscape instead of snow-covered expanses.
Ready to experience the green side of the mountains?
Book your spring or summer stay now and discover Sälen when the mountains show their most colourful side.
What to do in Sälen in spring and summer?
Sälen during spring and summer offers an abundance of activities for all ages and interests. Here are some of the best experiences waiting for you:
Hiking in the mountains
Sälenhe mountains offer hiking trails For all levels, from easy walks along tracked trails to more challenging day hikes over mountain ridges. Södra Kungsleden is a popular option with its easily accessible start at Högfjällshotellet. The first two kilometres are paved and suitable for prams, while those looking for more of a challenge can continue further into the trail.
Cycling for all levels
Cycling in Sälen has become increasingly popular, and the area is now part of the Biking Dalarna network. Try it out downhill in Lindvallen Bike Park where the lift takes you up and gravity does the rest. For a more leisurely experience, there are cross-country trails that wind through beautiful mountain scenery. Weekend in Sälen will be extra memorable with a day on the bike.
Canoeing and fishing
Västerdalälven, which flows through Sälen, offers great opportunities for paddling and fishing. Hire a canoe or kayak and explore the area from the water. For fishing enthusiasts, there are good chances of catching trout, grayling and pike in the area's streams and lakes.
Golf with mountain views
Sälenfjällens Golfklubb offers an 18-hole course with spectacular views. Playing golf surrounded by mountain nature is an extraordinary experience - and you might be joined by a moose along the fairway!
Relaxation and spa
After an active day, there's nothing better than relaxing in a sauna overlooking the mountains. Cottages with sauna and spa in Sälen gives you the opportunity to unwind in luxurious surroundings. Combine with a glass of wine on the terrace while the sun sinks behind the mountain peaks.
Perfect accommodation for summer adventures
To enjoy spring and summer to the fullest in Sälen, you need the right base. Sälengodset offers luxurious cottages in a perfect location for all summer activities. With spacious terraces, saunas and fully equipped kitchens, your stay will be comfortable and memorable.
A magical day in the mountains - this is what it can look like
To give you a sense of what a perfect day in spring and summer in Sälen might look like, here we follow a family through their day in Fjällgodset:
07:00 - Morning with a view
The day starts with breakfast on the terrace. The morning sun is already warming and the view of the lush green mountain slopes is magnificent. The coffee tastes extra good in the fresh mountain air while the family plans the day's adventure.
09:00 - Hike to Närfjällsstugan
With light rucksacks packed with food and water bottles, the family sets off on a hike towards Närfjällsstugan. The path is easy to follow and offers fantastic views. The children run ahead and discover blueberry rice and small mountain streams along the way.
12:00 - Picnic with panoramic views
At Närfjällsstugan, the family sets out their packed lunch. The view of the valley is spectacular and the air is filled with the scents of mountain heaths and flowers. An eagle sails majestically over the mountain ridge.
14:00 - Descent and berry picking
On the way back, the family takes a different path and stops to pick blueberries. The bowls are quickly filled with the sweet, wild berries that will later make a perfect dessert.
16:00 - Relaxing in the sauna
Back at the cottage, they heat up the sauna. While the parents relax in the warmth, the children play in the small stream that runs past the cabin. Through the sauna window they can see the mountain peaks in the distance.
19:00 - Barbecue evening on the terrace
The evening ends with a barbecue dinner on the terrace. Local produce is cooked on the grill while the sun slowly sinks behind the mountains and colours the sky pink and gold. Conversations flow about today's experiences and plans for tomorrow.
22:00 - Evening cosy by the fire
Even though it's still light outside, the family lights a fire in the fireplace. They play games and enjoy the blueberries they picked earlier, topped with cream. Through the panoramic windows, they watch the dusk slowly settle over the mountains in a magical blue colour.
5 questions to ask yourself before travelling
- Do I want a holiday cottage with spectacular views? If the view is important to you, consider accommodation with a view in Sälen where panoramic windows frame the mountain landscape.
- Which activities do I want to prioritise? Think about whether you mainly want to go hiking, cycling, fishing or perhaps try several different activities. This may influence where you choose to stay.
- Am I travelling with children or in larger groups? For families or larger groups, a spacious cottage with plenty of communal areas and several bedrooms is ideal. Rent a large cottage in Sälen gives you flexibility for different group sizes.
- How long do I want to stay? In weekend in Sälen gives you a flavour of the mountain experience, but to truly relax and enjoy more activities, a longer stay is recommended.
Summary - why Sälen is magical all year round
Spring and summer in Sälen offer a completely different but equally magical experience as the winter season. As the snow melts, a landscape full of life, colour and possibilities is revealed. From hiking on thriving mountain moors to cycling along winding trails, from relaxing sauna baths to adventurous canoeing trips - the variety of activities is endless.
What makes Sälen special during this time is the contrast - the intense, short mountain summer where nature explodes into life after the long winter. Bright evenings that never seem to end, crystal clear air and a sense of space and freedom that is hard to find anywhere else.
With the right accommodation, the experience is complete. Waking up to birds chirping and mountain views, ending the day with a sauna and dinner on the terrace while the sun sinks behind the mountain peaks - these are moments that are etched in your memory.
Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation or a combination of both, there's something for you in the Sälen mountains as the snow melts and nature comes to life. Let yourself be seduced by the green side of the mountains and create memories that last long after the summer is over.
Ready to experience spring and summer in Sälen?
Book your perfect mountain holiday now and discover the magic of the Sälen mountains coming to life after winter.
Frequently asked questions about summer in Sälen
When is the best time to visit Sälen in spring and summer?
Is Sälen child-friendly in summer?
Which properties have the best views in Sälen?
Do I need to rent a car to get around Sälen?
Final call to action
Sälengodset
Large, luxurious cabin that sleeps up to 21 people in 9 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. Perfect for management meetings or groups looking for plenty of space, social areas and luxury touches.
The house has two fully equipped kitchens, two dining tables for 18 people, sauna, jacuzzi and large lounge areas for presentation or conversation.
Fjällgodset
Modern and spacious accommodation for up to 22 people in 10 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms.
There are two spa areas with jacuzzi (one indoor, one outdoor), sauna, two kitchens, Sonos speakers, wine fridges and several lounges.
Olarslodgen
A charming and versatile lodge near Sälfjällstorget sleeping up to 21 people in 8 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms + 1 extra WC.
There are several social areas, 3 kitchens, sauna and terrace - perfect for creative meetings, workshops or an active conference in direct connection to slopes and restaurants.
Optimal location
Exclusive chalet in Sälen with perfect location near ski slopes, cross-country tracks and services Strategically located chalets for those who want to be close to everything. Our optimally located accommodation offers easy access to ski slopes, cross-country trails, restaurants and services - without compromising on privacy and tranquillity. Perfect for the active family or group looking to maximise their time in the mountains.