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Jämtland and Härjedalen

Jämtland och Härjedalen

Jämtland and Härjedalen, Sweden — travel guide
Photo by Emmeli Sjölander on Unsplash

Plan your trip to Jämtland and Härjedalen

Jämtland and Härjedalen are Sweden's premier mountain destinations, offering world-class skiing in winter and pristine hiking terrain in summer across dramatic landscapes shaped by centuries of Nordic pastoral culture. Once independent territories under Norwegian rule until 1645, these regions retain a distinctive character blending Scandinavian heritage with isolated valley traditions. Whether you're chasing powder runs at Åre or trekking through remote plateaus, these northern highlands deliver authentic mountain experiences year-round.

Getting there & around

Fly into Östersund Airport (about 2 hours from Stockholm) or arrive by train on the scenic line from central Sweden. From Östersund, rent a car to explore the region—distances between attractions range from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Winter visitors should note that mountain roads require winter tires and chains from December through March.

How long to stay

Plan 5–7 days to experience both skiing and hiking, or 3–4 days if focusing on one season. This timeframe lets you base yourself in Östersund or a resort town and take day trips to multiple valleys, plateaus, and waterfall sites without excessive driving.

When to go

December to March delivers reliable snow for skiing at Åre and Undersåker, though January–February offer the coldest, most stable conditions. June to August brings long daylight hours (nearly 24-hour summer light) and open mountain trails, making it ideal for hiking Härjedalen Mountains and Vemdalsskalet Plateau; May and September are shoulder seasons with fewer crowds but unpredictable weather.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Arrive in Östersund & Explore the Capital — Fly into Östersund and settle into the region's main hub, exploring the town's waterfront along Storsjön Lake and visiting local museums to learn about the area's Norwegian heritage and pastoral traditions. Overnight in Östersund and enjoy dinner at a traditional Swedish restaurant.
  2. Åre Mountain Resort & Surrounding Valleys — Drive 1 hour west to Åre Mountain Resort, Sweden's largest ski resort (winter) or hiking base (summer). Spend the day on the slopes, scenic chairlift rides, or valley walks; consider a detour to nearby Funäsdalen Valley for authentic mountain village atmosphere and local crafts.
  3. Härjedalen Mountains & Tännforsen Waterfall — Head south into the Härjedalen Mountains, stopping at the dramatic Tännforsen Waterfall on your way to the Vemdalsskalet Plateau for panoramic views. Hike or drive scenic routes, then return toward Östersund via Röros (a UNESCO-listed copper mining town just across the Norwegian border) for dinner and culture.

Frequently asked questions

Is Åre worth visiting?

Yes—Åre is Scandinavia's largest alpine resort with 40+ lifts and runs for all levels, plus excellent summer hiking. Winter and summer seasons both attract 700,000+ annual visitors, making it a proven destination with reliable infrastructure and diverse activities.

How many days do you need in Jämtland and Härjedalen?

3–4 days covers the main attractions (Åre, a waterfall, a plateau hike), while 5–7 days allows you to experience both winter and summer activities, explore multiple valleys, and visit Röros and smaller villages without rushing.

Is it safe to drive in winter in this region?

Yes, if prepared—roads are well-maintained and regularly cleared December to March, but winter tires and chains are mandatory, and sudden weather changes can occur. Check forecasts and road conditions before departing, especially on mountain passes.

Can you visit Jämtland in summer without skiing?

Absolutely—summer (June–August) is prime season for hiking Härjedalen Mountains, Vemdalsskalet Plateau, and valley trails, plus visiting waterfalls, lakes, and historic sites like Lit Church and Röros. Long daylight hours make it excellent for outdoor activities.

What is the nearest airport to Jämtland and Härjedalen?

Östersund Airport is the main gateway, located 10 km from the regional capital. It has direct flights from Stockholm (2 hours) and other Scandinavian cities; alternatively, you can fly to Stockholm and take a 5–6 hour train journey to Östersund.

History

Jämtland and Härjedalen have a long and distinctive history as former independent territories that were ceded to Sweden from Norway in 1645 as part of the Treaty of Brömsebro. Before this transfer, the regions maintained their own laws and customs under Norwegian rule, developing a unique cultural identity that persists today. The mountain landscapes and isolated valleys shaped centuries of pastoral farming and herding traditions that remain central to regional identity. The areas experienced significant population growth during the 19th and 20th centuries as industrialization brought logging, mining, and tourism to the previously remote mountain communities.

Culture

Jämtland and Härjedalen are characterized by their strong mountain culture, with reindeer herding by the Sámi people, traditional folk music, and distinctive handicrafts that reflect centuries of rural life. The regions celebrate their heritage through festivals like the Jämtland Festival and maintain a deep connection to the natural landscape through hunting, fishing, and outdoor traditions. The local cuisine emphasizes game, fish, and dairy products, with dishes like Härjedalsköttbullar and traditional flatbread reflecting the hardy, self-sufficient character of mountain communities.

Language

The local dialect, Jämtska, is a distinctive Swedish dialect with Norwegian influences that reflects the region's complex history and geographical isolation. Common local phrases include 'Hej då' for goodbye and 'Tack själv' as a polite response, though standard Swedish is universally understood in the region.

Best time to visit

Visit from December to March for skiing, or June to August for hiking and mountain activities.

Places to visit

Where to eat