Extra curricular thrills

If you begin to tire of downhill skiing, there is always the option of another of the Swedes’ favourite outdoor activities: cross-country skiing. Prepared routes abound, with 300 km of tracks around the Sälen area, almost 100 km at Åre, and more than 80 km at Idre. For those who want all of those same beautiful views but none of the effort of that full-body workout, husky-sledging or snow-mobile tours are options available at the resorts, or even reindeer tours and ice fishing opportunities at Åre.  

Child-friendly après

Picturesque Åre is perfect for any level of skier, but especially those looking for a vibrant nightlife. The party town offers a wide array of restaurants, bars and après-ski and live music venues. Don’t be surprised by the appearance of children at après-ski rocking to the band’s tunes in miniature noise-cancelling headphones. Children are welcome everywhere in family-friendly Sweden, and it’s no different when skiing.

Family focus

The resorts’ different mascots – including a cuddly snowman, a friendly wolf, a reindeer and cheerful trolls – host after-ski activities specifically for the children. At Hundfjället, many of these are in Trollskogen (the troll forest), a delightful green ski run winding between the trees and populated with carved wooden trolls to enchant the youngest ones.

Inside Sweden’s top ski resorts

Whether you want a cosy family holiday, or to party hard, learn to ski, go off-piste, or try out other outdoor activities beyond alpine skiing, Sweden has something for everyone.

Åre

Altitude: 400-1,274m
Best for: The Åre Björnen area is best for families (seven green runs, eight blue and two red). Åre Byen is ideal for intermediate skiers. Advanced skiers are catered for with black runs, off-piste and heli-skiing.
Pistes: 89 (almost 200km in total length), four fun parks and a choice of children’s areas and runs.
Off-piste: Extensive opportunities (various levels of difficulty)
Lift pass: Around 2,300kr (about £200) for an adult for a week, 1,850kr (£160) for those aged 7-17 or over 65; free for children aged up to six*.
Closest airport: Östersund – 87 km (55 miles)