Sälen: Ice Skating Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pickup

If you’re craving a true winter adventure in Sweden, this Ice Skating Tour from Sälen might just be your ticket to a memorable day. For around $318 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours immersed in a snowy landscape, gliding across frozen lakes with mountain vistas all around. The tour is run by Explore Sälen AB, a reputable provider that boasts a perfect rating, and features everything from scenic skating to warm lunches — making it a well-rounded experience for anyone looking to embrace the cold in style.

One of the standout aspects is the breathtaking scenery—imagine skating over a vast, frozen lake with majestic mountains in the background, surrounded by charming log cabins. We love how the tour combines physical activity with opportunities to admire Swedish winter landscapes, all wrapped up in a comfortable, guided package. However, a potential consideration is the weather — if conditions turn too severe or the ice isn’t safe, the route might be altered or the tour canceled. This is typical with outdoor winter activities, so flexibility and a bit of patience are key.

This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic views, and don’t mind spending a good chunk of time on the ice. Families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a mix of adrenaline and natural beauty will find this experience particularly rewarding. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour a solid choice and what you’ll really get out of it.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Glide across a 15 km ice skating track on Lake Orsasjön with mountain views.
• Comfortable logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Sälen make for stress-free planning.
• Authentic Swedish experience: Enjoy a lakeside lunch cooked over open fire baskets, warm drinks, and buns.
• All equipment provided: Skates, poles, and ice claws are included, so you don’t need to bring your own.
• Guided tour: Led by an experienced guide who can offer safety tips and local insights.
• Flexibility: Weather conditions might change the route or cancel the tour, so check the forecast and be adaptable.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins with a smooth pickup from your hotel in Sälen, a small town known for its winter sports. Your guide, whose proficiency in both English and Swedish ensures clear communication, will drive you in a cozy minivan to Lake Orsasjön — a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike during winter months. The drive itself is scenic, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Once at the lake, you’ll gear up with everything needed for a safe and fun skate — skates, poles, and ice claws are all included, which is great for those who haven’t brought their own equipment. We loved the way the guides are attentive to beginners, offering helpful tips and encouragement to make sure everyone feels comfortable tackling the ice.

The ice skating stretch spans approximately 15 km, crossing the entire lake from Orsa Camping to Kråkberg in Mora. This is a true highlight—an expansive, mostly flat track that offers uninterrupted views of snow-capped mountains and the surrounding forest. The expansive nature of the frozen lake means you’ll feel a sense of freedom and adventure, with plenty of space to practice or push your limits.

What makes this skating experience especially special is the scenery. The wide-open vistas and mountain backdrop elevate what might otherwise be a simple outdoor activity into a cinematic moment. Some reviews mentioned being amazed by the “vast and scenic views” while skating, and how the crisp winter air added to the thrill. It’s a chance to feel like you’re truly part of Sweden’s winter landscape.

After a generous stretch of skating, it’s time for a well-earned break. The guide will lead you to a cozy fireside spot by the lake, where open fire baskets keep everyone warm. Here, you can enjoy a tasty lunch with local flair — typically hearty fare like buns, hot drinks, and chocolate, perfect for refueling after exertion. The warm drinks and snacks are appreciated, especially since the cold can be quite biting.

The tour wraps up with a relaxed return journey, giving you the chance to reflect on the stunning scenery and your own achievement. The entire experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, even for beginners, with safety and comfort as priorities.

The Value of This Tour

At $318, the price seems reasonable considering the inclusions: transportation, guiding, equipment, and the lakeside lunch. This package offers excellent value, especially when you factor in the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which removes the hassle of organizing transport yourself. The small group size and attentive guides ensure a personalized experience — a crucial aspect when engaging in outdoor activities where safety and encouragement matter.

While the weather can sometimes influence the route or cancel the activity, the team’s flexibility and experience mean they prioritize safety and will adapt as needed. The tour’s duration of eight hours means plenty of time to enjoy the skating, take photos, and relax by the fire, making it a full and satisfying day.

For those concerned about gear, there’s no need to worry. All equipment is provided, so you can focus on the fun rather than logistics. We’ve heard from past participants who appreciated how easy it was to just show up, gear up, and go.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is particularly suitable for adventurers who want to experience Sweden’s winter landscape in an active way. It’s perfect for beginners and intermediate skaters, thanks to guides who provide helpful tips. The scenic setting makes it ideal for travelers seeking authentic natural beauty rather than just touristy attractions. Families with children might find it a fun, memorable outing — just ensure everyone is comfortable on the ice.

Those who appreciate cozy, social experiences will enjoy the lakeside lunch and the warmth of the fire. Meanwhile, travelers looking for a stress-free experience with all logistics handled will find this tour a welcome relief from planning.

The Sum Up

This Ice Skating Tour from Sälen offers a compelling mix of adventure, natural beauty, and comfort. The 15 km skating route across Lake Orsasjön provides extraordinary views and a true sense of connection with Sweden’s winter landscape. Paired with a warm lakeside lunch, hotel pickup, and expert guidance, it’s a well-rounded experience for anyone eager to enjoy the snowy season in a relaxed, authentic way.

If you’re after a scenic outdoor activity that combines physical fun with stunning vistas and cultural touches, this tour is a strong choice. It balances adventure with ease, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers — from outdoor enthusiasts to those simply wanting a memorable winter outing.

In short, it’s a chance to make the most of Sweden’s winter magic, with the added convenience of all-inclusive planning. Whether you’re visiting Sälen for the first time or looking to try something different, this ice skating tour offers a genuine taste of Scandinavian winter charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, all necessary equipment including skates, poles, and ice claws are provided as part of the tour.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing, with thermal layers recommended. Bring gloves, a hat, and waterproof outerwear to stay comfortable on the ice.

How long is the skating track?
The skating route spans 15 km across Lake Orsasjön, providing plenty of space to skate and enjoy the scenery.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are experienced and offer safety tips and encouragement, making it accessible even for those new to skating.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions can influence the route or result in cancellation. The tour provider is flexible and prioritizes safety, so check the forecast before booking.

How do I get picked up?
You’ll select your pickup point when booking, and the guide will pick you up from your hotel in Sälen in a comfortable minivan.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, experienced guiding, all skating equipment, a lakeside lunch, hot drinks, buns, and chocolate are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind planning your trip.

This ice skating tour captures the essence of Sweden’s winter — breathtaking scenery, active outdoor fun, and warm hospitality. It’s a delightful way to spend a day in Sälen, especially if you’re eager to embrace the cold and see the country’s snowy landscape from a fresh perspective.