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In Sweden, winter goes hand in hand with Sportlov (sports holidays), a school break dedicated to outdoor sports and leisure activities. Each year, in February or March depending on the region, Swedish families take advantage of this time off to recharge and enjoy unforgettable winter experiences. Skiing, ice skating, sledding, snowshoeing… Sportlov is the perfect opportunity to embrace snow and nature, far from everyday routines.
It is also the time when ski resorts become the beating heart of Swedish winter life, offering slopes for all levels and activities for the whole family. Five resorts stand out for their popularity among Swedes.
1. Åre: the jewel of swedish skiing
Located in northern Sweden, nestled in the mountains of Jämtland, Åre lies about 630 km from Stockholm. It can be reached in 6 to 7 hours by train, or via a 1h20 flight to Östersund followed by a one-hour drive. More than just a ski resort, Åre is a true international destination that attracts winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world each year.
Its diverse slopes, ranging from gentle beginner runs to demanding descents for advanced skiers, make it an ideal playground for all levels. Thrill-seekers can take on black runs and off-piste terrain, while families and beginners enjoy well-designed, safe learning areas.
Åre also stands out for its vibrant après-ski scene. The picturesque village is filled with gourmet restaurants, lively bars, cozy cafés and spas overlooking snow-covered peaks. Culture lovers can explore local galleries or attend concerts and seasonal events. The resort successfully blends modern infrastructure with Nordic charm, respecting traditional Swedish architecture (far removed from the brutalist style often found in French resorts for example).
Finally, Åre is a year-round destination: winter offers skiing and snowy landscapes, while summer is perfect for hiking, mountain biking and kayaking on nearby lakes. It is a place where sport, relaxation and nature come together seamlessly, offering a complete and authentic experience.
Practical Information – Åre
Access and Transport
- Plane: The nearest airport is Östersund–Frösö Airport (OSD), about 1h30 by car from Åre.
- Train: From Östersund, direct trains run to Åre, with the station just a short walk from the town center. Stockholm–Åre tickets range from 700 to 1,200 SEK one way.
- Bus / Shuttles: Buses connect the airport to Östersund, followed by train or transfer to Åre.
- Car: Easy access via the E14 highway, with parking available near ski lifts (free or paid depending on the area).
Level / Target Audience
Åre is one of Sweden’s largest and most complete ski resorts, suitable for all levels: • Slopes for beginners, intermediates, and experts • A great choice for families as well as off-piste enthusiasts • Cross-country skiing trails and children’s learning areas also available.
Approximate Budget (indicative, subject to seasonal variation)
- Transport: Train round trip 700–1,200 SEK; flights from Stockholm 900–1,600 SEK round trip
- Accommodation: Wide range of hotels, apartments, ski-in/ski-out chalets, and B&Bs. Early booking recommended during school holidays (Sportlov / peak season).
- Ski pass: One-day pass covering all areas (Åre By, Björnen, Duved/Tegefjäll): approx. 800 SEK (~€74) for adults, 640 SEK (~€60) for youth. Children under 7 ski free with a helmet.
Read more about skipass
- Equipment rental: Around 850 SEK for 3 days or 1,170–1,490 SEK for a week (skis, boots, poles). Helmets are often included. Advance booking recommended during peak season.
Best Season
Generally from mid-November to early May
Natural snowfall and snowmaking ensure reliable conditions L
ate January to late March offers ideal snow and a lively atmosphere
Atmosphere
- Lively but not overly party-focused compared to the Alps
- Wide selection of restaurants, bars, cafés, and après-ski events
- Charming and welcoming village with non-ski activities (snowmobiles, sledding, snowshoeing)
2. Sälen: a family paradise
Located about 400 km north of Stockholm, in the snowy forests of Dalarna, Sälen is a true haven for families and beginner skiers. The resort is made up of several interconnected areas (Hundfjället, Lindvallen, Stöten, and Näsfjället) and is known for its wide, gentle slopes, perfect for learning to ski with confidence.
Beyond skiing, Sälen charms visitors with its picturesque village, where wooden chalets and quiet streets create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can browse local shops, enjoy a coffee, or sample Swedish specialties in family-friendly restaurants. Après-ski here is relaxed and cozy, with hot chocolate, fireplaces and postcard-worthy snowy scenery.
Sälen also offers a wide range of activities for all ages: sledding for children, dog sledding for adventurers, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing for nature lovers. Ski schools and playful children’s zones ensure safe and fun first experiences on the slopes, while parents enjoy a calm, uncrowded environment.
Sälen perfectly combines Scandinavian authenticity with family-friendly comfort, offering winter holidays at an easy, enjoyable pace.
Practical Information – Sälen
Access and Transport
- Car: 5 to 6 hours from Stockholm
- Train: 4 hours to Mora, then bus or taxi transfer
- Nearest airport: Lindvallen Airport, with seasonal shuttle services
Level / Target Audience
-Beginners and families with children • Intermediate skiers looking for wide, easy slopes
Budget
- Medium to high, depending on accommodation type (private chalets or hotels)
- Affordable equipment rental and flexible ski passes tailored to families
More information about ski pass
Best Season
- January to late April for reliable snow and a lively winter atmosphere
- February school holidays are ideal for families
Atmosphere
- Warm, relaxed, and family-oriented
- Very child-friendly, with playful areas and dedicated ski schools
3. Idre Fjäll: authenticity and variety
Located about 500 km north of Stockholm, a 6–7 hour drive through the wild landscapes of Dalarna, Idre Fjäll is a human-scale resort known for its warm and unspoiled atmosphere. Far from large Alpine resorts, it represents a gentler, more authentic approach to skiing, where nature plays a central role.
Chocken slope in Idre fjäll
The ski area is diverse and suitable for all profiles. Beginners benefit from wide, well-maintained slopes ideal for safe progression, while advanced skiers can enjoy more technical runs. Freestyle enthusiasts will also appreciate the modern snowpark, designed for both learning and performance.
Beyond alpine skiing, Idre Fjäll stands out for its variety of winter activities: snowshoeing through silent forests, cross-country skiing on open plateaus, ice fishing on frozen lakes, and snowmobile excursions. The snowy scenery, combining deep forests and frozen expanses, creates a magical atmosphere.
The resort’s true charm lies in its friendliness and deep connection to Nordic nature, making it an ideal destination for sport, discovery, and relaxation.
Practical Information – Idre Fjäll
Access and Transport
Idre Fjäll is about a 5–6 hour drive from Stockholm. It can also be reached by train to Mora (around 4 hours), followed by a bus or taxi transfer. The nearest airport is Lindvallen, with seasonal shuttle services.
Level / Target Audience
Particularly well suited for beginners and families, but also ideal for intermediate skiers thanks to wide, accessible slopes.
Budget
Medium to high, depending on accommodation (chalets or hotels). Ski passes are flexible, and equipment rental remains affordable.
More information about skipass
Best Season
From January to late April, with reliable snow conditions.
February school holidays are ideal for families.
Atmosphere
Friendly and family-oriented, with playful areas and specialized ski schools for children.
4. Vemdalen: northern warmth and charm
Located about 600 km north of Stockholm in the Jämtland region, a 6–7 hour drive through vast Swedish landscapes, Vemdalen is one of the most appreciated resorts for its warm and authentic atmosphere. Known for its friendly welcome, it appeals to families and groups of friends seeking a relaxed and accessible ski experience.
The varied ski area offers slopes for all levels, with a particular focus on intermediate skiers, who enjoy long, flowing runs ideal for improving technique and having fun.
Vemdalen also offers a wide range of winter activities beyond alpine skiing. Cross-country skiing is well developed, with numerous trails winding through snowy forests, while the snowpark attracts freestyle enthusiasts of all levels.
After a day on the slopes, visitors can relax in traditional chalets, cozy restaurants and calm après-ski spots that reflect the Nordic way of life. Surrounded by rolling hills and preserved natural landscapes, Vemdalen is perfect for combining sport, enjoyment, and relaxation.
Practical Information – Vemdalen
Access and Transport
Vemdalen is about a 6–7 hour drive from Stockholm. It can also be reached by train to Östersund or Mora, followed by a bus or taxi transfer. The nearest regional airports are Östersund and Sveg, with seasonal connections.
Level / Target Audience
Ideal for families, groups of friends, and intermediate skiers, with wide, well-maintained slopes. Beginners also benefit from dedicated learning areas.
Budget
Medium budget, with a wide range of accommodation options from traditional chalets to hotels. Ski passes are reasonably priced, and equipment rental is affordable.
More information about skipass
Best Season
From January to late April, with generally reliable snow.
February school holidays are particularly suitable for families.
Atmosphere
Warm and relaxed, characterized by traditional chalets, welcoming restaurants, and a calm après-ski scene.
5. Riksgränsen: skiing under the midnight sun
Located more than 1,250 km north of Stockholm, deep within the Arctic Circle, Riksgränsen is a truly unique ski resort, famous worldwide for its extreme character and raw atmosphere. Remote and wild, it offers exceptional skiing conditions, with a season that can extend until June. In late spring, skiers can enjoy the unforgettable experience of skiing under the midnight sun, where Arctic light enhances the dramatic mountain scenery.
Riksgränsen is primarily a destination for experienced skiers and freeride enthusiasts. Its steep slopes, vast off-piste areas, and unmarked natural routes make it a true playground for adventurous riders. The pristine Arctic environment heightens the sense of freedom and exploration, far removed from conventional ski resorts.
Beyond skiing, Riksgränsen offers unique Nordic experiences, including snowmobile tours across frozen landscapes, dog sledding safaris, and northern lights observation. It is a destination for travelers seeking extraordinary adventures, where untouched nature and the extreme north create unforgettable memories.
Practical Information – Riksgränsen
Access and Transport
Riksgränsen is located more than 1,250 km north of Stockholm. It is accessible by day or night train directly to Riksgränsen station, located at the foot of the slopes. The nearest airport is Kiruna, followed by a train or bus transfer.
Level / Target Audience
Primarily suited for advanced skiers, freeriders, and off-piste enthusiasts. It is not recommended for beginners.
Budget
Medium to high, due to its remote location and Arctic conditions. Accommodation is simple but functional, and ski passes offer good value considering the quality of the terrain.
Read more about ski pass
Best Season
From March to June, with exceptional snow conditions.
May and June allow skiing under the midnight sun.
Atmosphere
Raw and adventurous, with an authentic, minimalist vibe focused on skiing, nature, and exploration.
