What are the best ways to discover Dalarna?
Situated in the middle of Sweden, the county of Dalarna is a treasure trove of traditional towns, cultural heritage and startling natural beauty. Dalarna holidays can be perfectly combined with time in the nation’s enigmatic capital, Stockholm - once you’ve ticked the city’s lights off your to-do list, Dalarna is your ultimate Swedish playground. The city of Falun is a magnificent starting point with its beautiful lakes, hills, valleys and it’s also the birthplace of Sweden’s iconic red-hued houses. The Falun Mine, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, was once the world’s largest copper mine. Take a tour of the rusty-hued mine and follow meandering paths past wooden cabins that look like they’re about to fall into the abyss, then catch your breath during lunch as you sample some of the region’s famous Falukorv sausage. Next up, the village of Tallberg and its huge glassy lake, Siljan, which sits at the heart of Dalarna. Tallberg is the ideal setting to meander quiet streets lined with red cottages, take a wild dip in Lake Siljan’s calm waters and watch the sun go down at the end of the long pier that juts into it. Dalarna’s appeal is plentiful and there are numerous towns and villages to visit during Dalarna holidays, from beautiful Sundborn with its museum house honouring arts and crafts artist Carl Larsson, to the magnificent Bergslagen forest in Skinnskatteberg where it’s possible to go on an elk safari.
Who is Dalarna best for?
Anyone hungry for an authentic take on Sweden will find themselves full to the brim during an escape to Dalarna. Tour historic mines, discover the origins of some of Sweden’s most iconic symbols, from its vibrant red clapboard houses to the ornate wooden Dala Horses that are found across the region, which originate from an age-old art form, and meander charming towns stopping by trendy coffee shops and fascinating museums. Dalarna holidays are also the perfect opportunity to soak up the natural beauty of the region. Outdoor enthusiasts will be in their element wild swimming in glimmering lakes, biking in forested mountains, climbing craggy rock faces, animal spotting among towering trees and reliving the day’s adventures over an evening campfire under the stars.