Siljansleden Trail

Siljansleden

A celebrated 80-kilometer hiking and cycling trail that circles Lake Siljan, connecting all the major villages and offering immersive views of the region's landscapes and culture. The route is ideal for experiencing Dalarna's beauty and stopping in charming communities along the way.

Things to do

• Hike or Cycle the Full Loop — Complete the entire 80-kilometer Siljansleden circuit around Lake Siljan over several days, stopping in villages like Rättvik, Leksand, and Falun.
• Visit Dalhalla Open-Air Theatre — Experience world-class performances in an abandoned limestone quarry near Rättvik, transformed into a stunning natural amphitheater.
• Explore Falun Copper Mine — Descend into Sweden's historic UNESCO-listed copper mine to learn about the region's mining heritage and see the dramatic red-earth crater.
• Visit Zorn Museum in Mora — Tour the home and studio of renowned Swedish painter Anders Zorn, displaying his masterworks and documenting local artistic traditions.
• Kayak on Lake Siljan — Paddle across Sweden's seventh-largest lake to experience the water-based perspective of the surrounding Dalarna countryside.
• Swim at Leksand Beach — Cool off in the refreshing lake waters at the popular sandy beach near Leksand village during warm summer months.
• Attend Midsummer Celebrations — Experience traditional Swedish Midsummer festivities with maypole dancing, folk music, and communal feasting throughout the villages.

Food to try

• Siljansgullash — A traditional Dalarna beef stew slow-cooked with onions, potatoes, and local spices, served warm at village restaurants.
• Väderleksöl — A local craft beer brewed in Leksand with traditional methods, reflecting the region's brewing heritage.
• Saffron Buns (Lussekatter) — Sweet saffron and cardamom-scented buns with raisins, traditionally baked for St. Lucia celebrations in December.
• Gravlax and Fresh Fish — Cured salmon and freshly-caught lake fish prepared by local cooks, available at lakeside restaurants throughout the trail.
• Kräm with Berries — A creamy berry dessert made with local lingonberries, blueberries, and cloudberries, served with whipped cream.
• Rättvik Korv — Traditional smoked sausages from Rättvik, grilled and served at village food stalls and local markets.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Trail Etiquette and Allemansrätten — Swedish right to roam (Allemansrätten) allows respectful access to nature, but always pack out what you pack in and stay on marked paths.
• Plan Around Seasonal Closures — Winter weather can make sections difficult; early June through September offers the most reliable hiking and cycling conditions.
• Engage with Local Dalarna Traditions — Villages celebrate traditional folk customs including hand-painted Dala horses and folk dancing; visiting artisan workshops offers authentic cultural insight.
• Book Accommodations Early — Summer months and Midsummer festival attract many visitors, so reserve lodging, campsites, and village guesthouses well in advance.