Åre Mountain Resort
Åre
Sweden's largest ski resort and year-round alpine destination with 95 slopes, hosting the 2019 World Ski Championships. It offers world-class skiing, mountain biking, and hiking with modern infrastructure and vibrant après-ski culture.
Things to do
- Alpine Skiing — Experience 95 slopes across 1,114 vertical meters with terrain for all levels, from beginner to expert runs.
- Mountain Biking — Ride over 100 kilometers of marked trails through summer alpine terrain with bike parks and downhill routes.
- Hiking on Åreskutan — Trek to the summit of Åreskutan mountain for panoramic views of Jämtland and Härjedalen valleys.
- Chairlift Scenic Rides — Take the modern gondolas and chairlifts for non-skiers to access alpine meadows and mountain viewpoints year-round.
- Åre Village Strolling — Wander the pedestrian-friendly village center with shops, galleries, and mountain views during summer months.
- Water Sports at Åresjön — Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the clear alpine lake adjacent to the resort during summer.
Food to try
- Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce — Tender beef and pork meatballs served with creamy sauce and tart lingonberry compote, a mountain lodge staple.
- Reindeer Stew (Rensoppa) — A hearty Sámi-influenced dish of slow-cooked reindeer meat with mushrooms and sour cream, warming and rich.
- Fresh Trout from Local Waters — Locally-caught mountain trout prepared simply grilled or pan-fried, showcasing the pristine alpine streams.
- Cinnamon Buns and Fika — Swedish cardamom and cinnamon pastries paired with coffee in the traditional afternoon fika break culture.
- Gravlax with Dill and Mustard Sauce — Cured salmon gravlax served with creamy mustard-dill sauce, a refined Swedish appetizer found in mountain restaurants.
Local customs & good to know
- Respect Mountain Weather — Alpine conditions change rapidly; always check forecasts and dress in layers, as the resort can experience sudden weather shifts.
- Embrace Fika Culture — Swedes take afternoon coffee and pastry breaks seriously, so schedule downtime to experience this cherished social ritual at mountain cafés.
- Leave No Trace Hiking — When hiking alpine trails, stay on marked paths and take all waste with you, honoring Swedish 'Allemansrätten' (right to roam) with responsibility.
- Après-Ski Tradition — The resort has a vibrant après-ski scene with music and socializing at mountain venues; join locals in relaxing after outdoor activities.