If you’re dreaming of gliding across icy lakes surrounded by snow-dusted mountains and charming cabins, this ice skating tour from Sälen might just be what you need. While I haven’t done it myself, the descriptions and reviews paint a picture of a genuinely memorable winter experience that’s well-suited for those who love the outdoors and scenic views.
What I really like about this tour is how it combines the thrill of skating on vast, open waters with the cozy charm of a lakeside lunch. Plus, the fact that hotel pickup and transport are included takes a lot of hassle out of planning. On the flip side, you should be aware that weather conditions can change plans unexpectedly, so flexibility is key. This experience works best for travelers who enjoy being active and appreciate natural beauty, especially if they’re comfortable in cold weather.
Whether you’re visiting Sweden for a short trip or have a few days in Sälen and want a genuinely scenic adventure, this tour offers a chance to see the winter landscape from a new perspective—on ice. It’s particularly ideal for those looking for a day out that combines physical activity with stunning visuals, and it’s accessible enough for most levels of skating experience.
Key Points
- Scenic skating on a 15 km frozen lake with wide, mountain-framed views.
- Includes a lakeside lunch and hot drinks, perfect for warming up after some outdoor activity.
- Convenient hotel pickup and transport in a comfortable minivan simplify logistics.
- Guided experience in English and Swedish, ensuring clear instructions and local insights.
- Weather-dependent – plans can shift if conditions aren’t ideal.
- Suitable for active travelers who enjoy natural scenery and winter adventures.
An In-Depth Look at the Ice Skating Tour from Sälen
Getting a good sense of what this tour offers can help you decide if it’s the right fit. From the moment you’re picked up in Sälen, the journey begins with a comfortable ride to Lake Orsasjön, where the winter magic unfolds.
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The Route and the Ice Skating Experience
The main event takes place on a 15 km ice skating trail that crosses Lake Orsasjön. This isn’t just a quick skate around the pond; it’s a full-length track that stretches across the entire lake. The route is cleverly cleared between Orsa Camping and Kråkberg in Mora, offering a seamless, scenic experience.
Imagine skating over a vast, shimmering frozen surface with majestic mountains rising on all sides. The views are particularly striking—snow-capped peaks, cozy log cabins dotting the landscape, and the crisp, clear winter sky overhead. According to reviews, the scenery is a highlight, with many noting the “vast and scenic views” that make the effort worthwhile. One reviewer even mentioned that the experience “felt like being in a winter postcard,” which sums up the visual appeal pretty well.
The Actual Skating
You’ll use provided skates, poles, and ice claws to help with balance and safety. The equipment is included, so no need to worry about bringing your own gear unless you prefer to. The tour is guided, meaning an experienced guide will keep things moving smoothly and provide tips along the way. Most reviewers agree that the guides are friendly and helpful, making the experience accessible even if you’re not an expert skater.
If you’re new to ice skating, don’t worry—just be sure to bring some warm clothing and be prepared for potentially icy conditions. Some reviews mention that the ice is well maintained, but weather can influence the quality of the surface. It’s worth noting that the tour is suitable for those who can handle a bit of outdoor chill, so packing thermal layers is a smart move.
The Lunch and Warm-up Breaks
After a few hours gliding over the ice, you’ll stop for a hearty lunch by open fire baskets. This is a real treat—imagine warming your hands with hot drinks, buns, and perhaps some chocolate as you take in the winter landscape. Several reviews highlight the quality of the food and the cozy atmosphere, which provides a perfect break from the outdoors.
The lunch also offers a chance to chat with your guide and fellow travelers, sharing impressions of the landscape and skating. It’s a chance to relax and recharge before heading back out for more skating or simply soaking in the views.
More Great Tours NearbyTransportation and Convenience
One of the big advantages of this tour is the hotel pickup in Sälen. The journey to the lake is in a small, comfortable minivan, which means you skip the hassle of figuring out public transport or renting a car. The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full day of outdoor fun but not overly long. Check the schedule for available start times, as flexibility can vary based on the season and weather.
What’s Not So Perfect
While this tour gets rave reviews for scenery and organization, weather can cause hiccups. There’s always a chance that the lake might be unsafe for skating if conditions aren’t right, or the path might need to be canceled or rerouted. It’s worth planning with a flexible mindset and checking the weather forecast before booking.
Some reviews also mention that the tour is quite active—if you’re not comfortable in cold weather or on ice, this might not be the best choice. But for those who thrive in winter landscapes and enjoy outdoor sports, this experience hits the sweet spot.
Why This Tour Could Be a Great Choice
This ice skating adventure is perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing and are eager to actively engage with Sweden’s winter scenery. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate natural, wide-open landscapes and don’t mind a bit of cold. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, it offers a memorable way to experience the unique beauty of a Swedish winter.
The inclusion of lunch and warm drinks makes it a well-rounded experience, giving you a comfortable balance of activity and relaxation. The guided aspect ensures safety and local insights, adding value for those unfamiliar with ice skating or the region.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a scenic outdoor activity to your Swedish winter itinerary, this ice skating tour from Sälen offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, physical activity, and cozy hospitality. The scenery alone is worth the price, especially if you’re a fan of wide-open snowy landscapes and mountain views.
Keep in mind that weather can influence the experience, and it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor winter conditions. Still, the chance to skate across a frozen lake, enjoy a lakeside lunch, and take in sweeping vistas is pretty hard to beat for a memorable day out. It’s a straightforward, well-reviewed choice for anyone wanting to embrace the winter wonderland of Dalarna.
Sälen: Ice Skating Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pickup
FAQ
Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Sälen and transported in a comfortable minivan, which makes logistics much easier.
What should I bring for the skating day?
Bring warm, weather-appropriate clothing, thermal layers, and any personal gear if you prefer. The tour provides skates, poles, and ice claws, so you only need to focus on staying warm.
How long does the skating last?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, skating, lunch, and breaks. The actual skating time is part of this schedule, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery.
Can beginners participate?
Yes, guided by experienced guides, most skill levels can enjoy the experience. Just be sure you’re comfortable in cold weather and have good footwear for walking around.
What if the weather isn’t suitable for skating?
Weather conditions are a factor, and the tour might be canceled or rerouted if the ice isn’t safe. It’s a good idea to check the forecast and have a flexible plan.
Is this suitable for children or families?
The tour is designed as a full-day outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable in winter conditions. Children who can skate safely and are prepared for the cold should have no problem, but check with the provider if traveling with young kids.
This ice skating tour from Sälen offers an authentic taste of Sweden’s winter magic. If wide-open snowy landscapes and a touch of outdoor adventure appeal to you, it’s likely to become a highlight of your trip.
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