Things To Do in Dalarna – Our Favourite Places
When travelling through Dalarna, you quickly understand why this region holds such a special place in Swedish hearts.
Discover the Most Beautiful Places in Dalarna – A Local’s Favourite Spots
Here, deep forests meet shimmering lakes, red cottages dot the landscape, and centuries-old traditions live on in both culture and craftsmanship.
In this article, I have gathered some of my favourite places in Dalarna – places that I have personally visited or that have been recommended by friends, locals, and travellers.
Many of them are my own hidden gems, others are beloved classics that have been admired for generations. Together, they form a guide to some of the most beautiful, inspiring and peaceful spots in the region known affectionately as Dalom.
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1. Tällberg – The Siljan Village with Timeless Charm
Nestled along the eastern shores of Lake Siljan, Tällberg is perhaps one of the most photographed villages in Dalarna. It is famous for its traditional wooden houses, flower-filled gardens, and breathtaking panoramic views across the lake.
Every season paints a new picture here – lilac summers, golden autumns, snowy winters. Whether you stay at one of the charming hotels or stroll along the old lanes, Tällberg is a perfect place to feel the spirit of Dalarna.
👉 Read more about Tällberg
2. Njupeskär Waterfall – The Mighty Force of Nature
Located within Fulufjället National Park, Njupeskär is one of Sweden’s highest waterfalls, with a drop of nearly 93 meters. The surrounding nature is wild and untouched – spruce forests, clear streams and a silence that feels eternal.
The hike to Njupeskär is an easy and rewarding trail, accessible for most visitors. When you reach the viewpoint, the sound of rushing water fills the air, and you understand why this place is often called the crown jewel of Dalarna’s wilderness.
3. Städjan and Nipfjället – Hiking Among Giants
The Städjan-Nipfjället Nature Reserve in Idre is a paradise for hikers. Städjan, with its cone-shaped peak, is said to have inspired the national anthem’s line “Du gamla, du fria”.
From the top, you get a spectacular view over the Dalafjällen mountains, stretching all the way into Norway. The trails vary in difficulty, but even a short walk here offers a sense of vastness and freedom that is hard to find elsewhere.
4. The Zorn Museum in Mora – Art and Legacy
In the heart of Mora stands the Zorn Museum, dedicated to Sweden’s most celebrated artist, Anders Zorn. The museum displays his paintings, sculptures, and etchings, while the adjacent Zorngården preserves his home exactly as he left it.
The setting, right by Lake Siljan, adds to the charm. Visiting Zorn’s world gives a glimpse into both artistic brilliance and deep connection to Dalarna’s rural roots.
👉 Read more about Mora
5. Orsa Predator Park – Wildlife Up Close
Orsa Predator Park is one of Europe’s largest wildlife parks focused on predators. It’s home to bears, wolves, lynx, and wolverines – all living in large, natural habitats.
Set within the forested hills near Grönklitt, the park combines education and conservation with breathtaking nature. It’s a perfect outing for families, photographers, and anyone fascinated by Nordic wildlife. 
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6. Carl Larsson’s Home in Sundborn – A Swedish Icon
Few places capture Swedish art and family life as beautifully as Carl Larsson-gården in Sundborn. The home of artists Carl and Karin Larsson is now a museum filled with original furniture, paintings, and handmade details.
Walking through the house feels like stepping into a painting – every room radiates colour, craftsmanship, and creativity. The garden, with its small pond and lush greenery, is just as inspiring.
👉 Read more about Sundborn
7. Fulufjället National Park – Wilderness and Wonder
Beyond Njupeskär, Fulufjället National Park offers endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The park’s plateau is a unique highland ecosystem with some of the oldest known trees in the world – including “Old Tjikko”, a 9,500-year-old spruce.
If you crave solitude and connection with nature, this is where to find it.
8. Gammelgården in Älvdalen – Living History
In Älvdalen, one of Dalarna’s most linguistically and culturally distinct areas, you’ll find Gammelgården – a 17th-century homestead turned museum. The log buildings tell stories of local traditions, ancient runes, and the unique Älvdalska dialect.
Every corner breathes history and resilience – a tribute to the people who shaped Dalarna’s identity.
9. Ornässtugan – A Royal Hideaway
Located near Borlänge, Ornässtugan is one of Sweden’s oldest preserved wooden houses. According to legend, it was here that Gustav Vasa once hid during his rebellion against the Danish crown in the 1520s.
Today, the site is a museum surrounded by calm forests and lake views, telling both royal and rural stories from centuries past.
10. Lake Siljan – The Heart of Dalarna
At the heart of Dalarna lies Lake Siljan, formed by a meteor impact over 360 million years ago. It’s surrounded by picturesque towns like Rättvik, Leksand, and Tällberg, each offering their own slice of lakeside life.
Boating, kayaking, fishing, or simply watching the sunset – Siljan embodies peace, beauty, and tradition in perfect balance.
11. Vansbrosimningen – Sweden’s Iconic Swim
Every summer, thousands of swimmers gather in Vansbro to participate in Vansbrosimningen, one of Sweden’s largest open-water swimming events.
It’s not just a competition – it’s a festival of courage, endurance and community. Whether you swim or cheer from the riverbank, it’s an unforgettable Dalarna experience.
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12. Kupolen in Borlänge – Culture and City Life
Though Borlänge is often seen as an industrial hub, Kupolen adds colour and culture to the city. It’s a large arena that hosts concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year, attracting visitors from across Dalarna.
After exploring rural landscapes, Kupolen offers a taste of modern Dalarna life – energetic, diverse, and always evolving.
13. Leksand Church – A Landmark of Faith and Craft
In Leksand, overlooking Lake Siljan, stands one of Sweden’s most beautiful churches. Leksands kyrka is a masterpiece of traditional architecture and a symbol of local pride.
Inside, you’ll find intricate woodwork and history stretching back centuries. Many visitors also come to see the famous Leksand folk costume, proudly worn during midsummer celebrations.
👉 Read more about Leksand
14. Evertsberg Forest – A Quiet Escape
Near the small village of Evertsberg, you’ll find tranquil forests filled with moss, birds, and winding paths. It’s also one of the iconic stages of the Vasaloppet ski race – but during summer, it transforms into a serene hiking and cycling paradise.
15. Lisskogsberget – Views Beyond the Horizon
For those who love wide views, Lisskogsberget is a must-visit. Rising high above the Siljan region, it offers panoramic scenes over lakes, villages, and endless forests.
It’s a rewarding destination for hikers, especially at sunrise or sunset, when Dalarna glows in soft golden light.
16. Rättviksbacken – Adventure All Year Round
Winter in Dalarna means skiing, and Rättviksbacken is a favourite for locals and tourists alike. The slopes overlook Lake Siljan, creating one of Sweden’s most picturesque ski views.
In summer, the area transforms into a mountain biking park and adventure zone – proof that Dalarna’s beauty never sleeps.
17. Falu Mine – A Journey into Sweden’s Heart
No list of Dalarna favourites is complete without Falu Gruva, the historic Falun Mine. Once the world’s largest copper mine, it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Swedish industry.
Visitors can descend into the old tunnels, learn how the famous Falu Red paint was born, and explore Falun’s charming surroundings.
👉 Read more about Falun
18. Fjätervålen – Skiing in the High Mountains
Fjätervålen, located in the northwestern part of Dalarna, is a beloved ski area with more than 20 well-maintained slopes and spectacular views over the Dalafjällen.
It’s quieter than Sälen but equally scenic – a perfect choice for families or travellers who want pristine snow and peaceful surroundings.
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Personal Reflections
Whenever I travel through Dalarna, I’m reminded that beauty here doesn’t shout – it whispers. It’s in the smell of pine forests after rain, the sound of church bells across Siljan, or a cup of coffee shared in a tiny village café.
These places aren’t just tourist spots – they are living memories of Sweden’s soul. Whether it’s hiking up Städjan, admiring Carl Larsson’s home, or simply sitting by the lake, every experience connects you a little deeper to nature and tradition.
FAQ – Visiting Dalarna
When is the best time to visit Dalarna?
It depends on what you want to experience. Summer is perfect for festivals, lakes and hiking, while winter brings snow, skiing and cosy cabins. Spring and autumn are quieter but equally beautiful.
Is Dalarna suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many attractions like Orsa Predator Park, Fulufjället National Park and Rättviksbacken offer fun and educational experiences for all ages.
How do I travel around Dalarna?
A car is ideal for exploring freely, but regional buses and trains connect major towns like Falun, Mora, and Borlänge. Cycling is also a popular and scenic option around Lake Siljan.
What foods should I try?
Don’t miss tunnbröd, Falu sausage, and locally made cheese. Many cafés serve homemade pastries with a regional twist.
Conclusion – Exploring Dalarna’s Hidden Treasures
Dalarna is more than a destination – it’s a feeling. It’s the warmth of red cottages against blue lakes, the echo of fiddle music on summer nights, and the peace that only nature can bring.
From Tällberg to Fulufjället, Falun to Leksand, every place has its own heartbeat. Whether you seek culture, adventure, or silence, you’ll find it here – in the heart of Sweden.
Petter Hansson är frilansskribent och digital nomad med hjärtat i Dalarna. Han har under många år rest, vandrat och deltagit i evenemang runt om i landskapet och delar här med sig av både egna upplevelser och faktagranskade tips. På Dalarna.nu vill han lyfta fram det bästa av regionens natur, kultur och historia – från små byar och dolda pärlor till stora festivaler och klassiska resmål.
