Härjedalen, Sweden Travel Guide

Explore Härjedalen: Sweden's untouched wilderness, offering year-round adventure and serene landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

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Härjedalen

Härjedalen is a hidden gem in Sweden, offering tourists a glimpse of unspoiled nature and serene landscapes. Nestled in the heart of Sweden, this region is known for its vast forests, rolling hills, and picturesque rivers. Whether you are an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind, Härjedalen has something for everyone. In the winter, Härjedalen transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The area is home to several ski resorts, including Funäsdalen, which boasts some of the best slopes in the country. For those who prefer a slower pace, the region offers plenty of opportunities for ice fishing and dog sledding. During the summer months, Härjedalen becomes a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The region is dotted with numerous trails that lead through lush forests and up to breathtaking viewpoints. Don't miss the chance to visit Sonfjället National Park, where you might even spot a bear or moose in their natural habitat. Fishing enthusiasts will also find plenty of rivers and lakes teeming with fish. Härjedalen is also rich in cultural heritage. The small villages scattered throughout the region offer a glimpse into traditional Swedish life. Visit the local museums to learn about the Sami culture and the area's history. Don't forget to try some local delicacies, such as reindeer meat and cloudberry jam, which are unique to this part of Sweden.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Härjedalen.

Visit during the off-peak seasons to enjoy the natural beauty without the crowds.
Pack layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
Rent a car to fully explore the remote areas and hidden gems of Härjedalen.
Try local delicacies like reindeer meat and cloudberry jam for an authentic taste of the region.
Bring a good pair of hiking boots if you plan to explore the numerous trails.

Destinations in Härjedalen

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Lindvallen

Sälen

Idre Fjäll

Stöten

Vemdalen

Explore Härjedalen: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Härjedalen

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Åre ski resort

Sweden's ski colossus: 90km of Nordic powder, family freeski zones and Åreskutan's epic 1,020m drops await in this mountain mecca.

4.2

Jämtlandstriangeln

Traverse Sweden's beloved 47 km mountain triangle: Storulvån to Sylarna and Blåhammaren, where alpine trails meet cozy lodges in Jämtland's pristine peaks.

4.6

Njupeskär Waterfall

Sweden's tallest free-falling waterfall roars 70 meters into a misty canyon, surrounded by Fulufjället's wild moors and ancient forests—a raw spectacle of nature's force.

4.8

Korallgrottan

Crawl into Sweden's longest cave: 6km of marble wonders, coral stalactites, and karst secrets in a Jämtland nature reserve wilderness.

4.4

Best landmarks in Härjedalen

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Fjällnäs Est. 1882

Sweden's pioneering fjällhotell since 1882: wilderness luxury on Lake Malmagen's edge, where history, spa serenity, and seasonal Nordic feasts awaken the senses in pristine isolation.

4.6

Flatruetvägen (Sveriges högsta vägpunkt)

Drive into Sweden's high frontier on Flatruetvägen, the nation's loftiest public road, where vast plateaus meet jagged peaks under skies of endless drama.

4.6

Tannforsen Waterfall

Sweden's widest waterfall roars across 60 meters, plunging 38 meters in a seasonal spectacle of power, ice, and mist—preserved forever in Jämtland's wild heart.

4.7

Högvålen - Sveriges högst belägna by

Discover Sweden's loftiest village at 835m in Härjedalen's wild mountains—serene isolation, epic views, and timeless chapel amid mires and peaks.

5.0

Best restaurants in Härjedalen

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Hovde Kök & Bar

Cozy mountain kitchen and bar in Vemdalsskalet, blending local Swedish flavors, hearty classics, and extensive drinks amid ski slopes and stunning peaks.

4.1

Restaurang Árran

Rustic hearth of Funäsfjällen: Savor local fjäll flavors at Árran, Tännäskröket's cozy hub for fika, pizzas, and post-ski feasts amid Sweden's wild mountains.

4.3

Våffelstugan

Cozy fjäll waffle hut at 820m with cloudberry waffles, local game feasts, and epic mountain views—accessible by ski, snowcat, or hike in Lofsdalen's wild heart.

4.4

Aktivitetshuset i Lofsdalen AB

Lofsdalen's ultimate family playground: award-winning burgers, bowling battles, epic lekland adventures, and arcade thrills beside the snowy slopes—pure mountain joy for all ages.

3.8

Best bars in Härjedalen

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Café Loftet

Experience the flavors of Sweden at Café Loftet, Funäsdalen's cozy bistro offering delicious local cuisine and stunning mountain views.

4.3

Linsell Baren Restaurang

Explore the culinary delights of Linsell Baren Restaurang in Sveg, where Swedish tradition meets a cozy dining atmosphere.

4.3

Mackmyra Skybar i Lofsdalen

Mountaintop Mackmyra whiskey and 360° vistas at 1,125m—Lofsdalen's ultimate sky-high sip with panoramic Swedish mountain magic.

4.2

Storhogna Vinterträdgård

Lush winter garden dining amid Vemdalen's snowy fells: 3-course Nordic feasts, babbling brooks, and alpine views for après-ski bliss.

Best nightclubs in Härjedalen

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Park Lane

Gothenburg's premier krogshow and nightclub fusion: dinner theater magic transitions to pulsating dancefloor energy on vibrant Kungsportsavenyen.

3.6

Slakthuset

Raw industrial nightclub in Stockholm's slaughterhouse district: techno beats, rooftop terrace, and Berlin-style vibes near Globen.

3.5

Sturecompagniet

A grand, multi-room nightclub set in a historic Sturebadet building — Stureplan’s stage for late-night music, cocktails and theatrical nights out.

2.3

Club Backdoor

A big, late‑night gay club in Johanneshov with multiple dance floors, heavy sound and weekend parties that run into the small hours.

2.0

Best shops in Härjedalen

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Fulufjället National Park

Discover Sweden's highest waterfall, the world's oldest tree, and 140 km of trails in this pristine mountain wilderness on the Sweden-Norway frontier.

4.8

ICA Supermarket Funäsdalen

The reliable, well-stocked village supermarket on Rörosvägen — practical groceries, local specialties and long opening hours for mountain visitors.

4.0

Vemdalen Ski Shop

A practical, service‑focused ski and outdoor pro shop in Vemdalenskalet offering rentals, repairs and local gear expertise year‑round.

4.7

Fjällkonditoriet Vemdalsskalet

Artisan bakery in Vemdalsskalet's heart, where sourdough scents mingle with mountain air and fresh buns fuel ski-day bliss.

5.0

Explore Härjedalen on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Härjedalen, mapped for you.

Härjedalen Essentials

Härjedalen is located in the central part of Sweden. The nearest major airport is Åre Östersund Airport, approximately 150 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can fly to Stockholm Arlanda Airport and then take a domestic flight to Sveg Airport, which is within Härjedalen. From these airports, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach your final destination within Härjedalen. Trains are also an option, with connections from Stockholm to Sveg, although they may require transfers.
Härjedalen is a vast region, and having a car is the most convenient way to explore its many attractions. Car rentals are available at local airports and larger towns. Public buses operate between major towns and villages, but services can be infrequent. For a more scenic experience, consider biking or hiking through the region's numerous trails. Taxis are available but can be expensive for long distances.
The official currency in Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout Härjedalen. ATMs are available in larger towns, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas.
Härjedalen is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially in isolated areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the European emergency number. Medical facilities are available in larger towns like Sveg. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in most towns for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially if you are hiking or participating in outdoor activities. Avoid overly casual attire in finer dining establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting churches or other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as Swedish public transport is known for its timeliness. Don’t be loud or disruptive on buses or trains. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hej' (hello). A handshake is common for more formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as reindeer and elk. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered rude.
To experience Härjedalen like a local, visit during the summer for the Midnight Sun or in winter for exceptional skiing and snowboarding. Participate in local festivals and events to get a taste of the local culture. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about their region. Don’t miss exploring the stunning national parks and nature reserves, such as Sonfjället National Park. For a unique experience, try dog sledding or taking a guided wildlife safari to spot moose and other native animals.

When is the best time to visit Härjedalen?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Härjedalen

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Härjedalen. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHej
  [Hay]
- GoodbyeHej då
  [Hay daw]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNej
  [Nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVarsågod
  [Var-sho-good]
- Thank youTack
  [Tack]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsäkta
  [Ur-sek-ta]
- How are you?Hur mår du?
  [Hur mohr doo]
- Fine. And you?Bra. Och du?
  [Bra. Ohk doo]
- Do you speak English?Talar du engelska?
  [Tah-lar doo eng-els-ka]
- I don't understandJag förstår inte
  [Yahg for-stor in-teh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJag skulle vilja se menyn, tack
  [Yahg skool-leh vil-ya seh meh-nun, tack]
- I don't eat meatJag äter inte kött
  [Yahg eh-ter in-teh shutt]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [Skawl!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJag skulle vilja betala, tack
  [Yahg skool-leh vil-ya beh-tah-la, tack]
- Help!Hjälp!
  [Yelp!]
- Go away!Gå bort!
  [Gaw bort!]
- Call the Police!Ring polisen!
  [Ring po-lee-sen!]
- Call a doctor!Ring en läkare!
  [Ring en leh-ka-reh!]
- I'm lostJag är vilse
  [Yahg air vil-seh]
- I'm illJag är sjuk
  [Yahg air shook]
- I'd like to buy...Jag skulle vilja köpa...
  [Yahg skool-leh vil-ya shur-pa...]
- I'm just lookingJag tittar bara
  [Yahg tit-ar bar-ah]
- How much is it?Hur mycket kostar det?
  [Hur my-ket kos-tar deh]
- That's too expensiveDet är för dyrt
  [Deht air fur deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du sänka priset?
  [Kan doo sen-ka pree-set]
- What time is it?Vad är klockan?
  [Vad air klok-an?]
- It's one o'clockKlockan är ett
  [Klok-an air ett]
- Half past (10)Halv (10)
  [Halv (ten)]
- MorningMorgon
  [Mor-gon]
- AfternoonEftermiddag
  [Ef-ter-mid-dahg]
- EveningKväll
  [Kvell]
- YesterdayIgår
  [I-gore]
- TodayIdag
  [I-dahg]
- TomorrowImorgon
  [I-mor-gon]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Var är en/ett...?
  [Var air en/ett...?]
- What's the address?Vad är adressen?
  [Vad air a-dress-en?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du visa mig (på kartan)?
  [Kan doo vee-sah may (poh kar-tan)?]
- When's the next (bus)?När går nästa (buss)?
  [Nair gor nes-ta (boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En biljett (till ...)
  [En bil-yett (til ...)]

History of Härjedalen

Härjedalen's history traces back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human activity as far back as the Stone Age. Archaeological findings, such as stone tools and remnants of early settlements, indicate that the region was inhabited by hunter-gatherer communities. These early inhabitants thrived in the region's rich natural environment, relying on fishing, hunting, and foraging.
During the medieval period, Härjedalen was influenced by the larger political entities surrounding it, including Norway and Sweden. The region was initially part of Norway until the Treaty of Brömsebro in 1645, when it was ceded to Sweden. This period saw the construction of several churches and the establishment of local governance structures. The medieval landscape of Härjedalen was characterized by small farming communities and a strong sense of local identity.
The indigenous Sami people have played a significant role in the cultural fabric of Härjedalen. Traditionally reindeer herders, the Sami have a deep connection to the land and its natural resources. Their unique customs, language, and traditional clothing are integral to the region's heritage. Visitors to Härjedalen can learn about Sami culture through various cultural centers and events that celebrate their traditions.
The 17th century was a transformative period for Härjedalen, as it became part of the expanding Swedish Empire. The region's integration into Sweden brought about administrative changes and the introduction of new agricultural practices. The establishment of mining and forestry industries also began to shape the local economy. This era marked the beginning of a closer connection between Härjedalen and the broader Swedish realm.
The 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant industrial and economic development in Härjedalen. The construction of railways and improved infrastructure facilitated the growth of industries such as timber, mining, and agriculture. This period also saw the rise of tourism, as the natural beauty of Härjedalen attracted visitors seeking outdoor adventures and a respite from urban life. The region's picturesque landscapes and pristine wilderness became a key part of its identity.
In the contemporary era, Härjedalen has continued to balance development with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Efforts to maintain traditional crafts, languages, and customs are evident in various local initiatives and community projects. The region's commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that visitors can experience its history and culture while respecting the natural environment. Härjedalen's blend of historical depth and vibrant local culture makes it a unique destination in Sweden.