Vemdalen, Sweden Travel Guide

Discover Vemdalen: A Year-Round Adventure Hub in the Heart of Sweden's Natural Splendor

Nestled in the heart of Sweden, Vemdalen is an enchanting destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling outdoor activities. This picturesque village is surrounded by majestic mountains and dense forests, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. During the winter months, Vemdalen transforms into a snowy paradise, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. The area boasts three exceptional ski resorts—Vemdalsskalet, Björnrike, and Klövsjö/Storhogna—each offering a range of slopes for all skill levels. Whether you're a novice or an expert, you'll find the perfect piste here. Beyond skiing, Vemdalen offers a variety of other winter activities. You can try your hand at snowmobiling, ice fishing, or even dog sledding. For those who prefer a slower pace, there are plenty of scenic trails perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. After a day of adventure, unwind in one of the cozy lodges or enjoy a traditional Swedish meal at a local restaurant. In the warmer months, Vemdalen is equally captivating. The lush landscapes are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The streams and lakes are teeming with fish, while the trails offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. You can also explore the local culture by visiting nearby villages and learning about the region's rich history and traditions.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during off-peak times for a more serene experience and lower prices.
Don't miss the Northern Lights; the best time to see them is between late September and early April.
Pack layers and proper winter gear; temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the evenings.
Check local guides for the best hiking and biking trails to suit your skill level.
Try local delicacies like reindeer meat and cloudberries at the village restaurants.

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

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

Best attractions in Vemdalen

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Sonfjället National Park

A compact, glacier‑carved mountain park of boulder fields, old forest and rich wildlife — Sweden’s intimate high country with living fäbod traditions.

4.6

Destination Vemdalen AB

The local visitor hub in Vemdalsskalet — maps, seasonal advice and practical help for exploring Vemdalen’s slopes and trails.

4.7

Fettjeåfallet

A 60-metre, two-stage waterfall set in a mossy gorge—wild, photogenic and quietly dramatic at every season.

4.7

SkiStar Vemdalen

A family‑focused, full‑service alpine resort in Härjedalen with groomed pistes, snow parks and multi‑season outdoor activity.

4.2

Best landmarks in Vemdalen

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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

Rombovallen

Whispers of medieval pilgrims echo at Rombovallen, a soul hut burial ground on Sweden's ancient Romboleden trail amid Lofsdalen's majestic mountains.

4.4

Best restaurants in Vemdalen

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Klövsjö Gårdsbryggeri

Craft beers from a historic barn brewery in Sweden's prettiest village, paired with Swedish-Mexican fusion dining amid Jämtland's fjäll splendor. Tours, tastings, and workshops await.

4.8

Vargen Vemdalsskalet

Cozy mountain inn where Swedish comfort food, live tunes, and snowmobile thrills unite skiers and campers beneath Varggransfjället's majestic peaks in vibrant Vemdalsskalet.

4.4

Katrinastugan

Cozy slope-side café in Klövsjö serving Swedish lunches, coffee, and drinks with mountain views—perfect for families and skiers seeking authentic alpine warmth.

3.9

Bräjks Matbar

Savor Swedish alpine flavors at Bräjks Matbar—where hearty ski lunches, fresh local ingredients, and cozy after-ski vibes meet in Vemdalen's Björnrike.

4.4

Best bars in Vemdalen

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Storhogna Vinterträdgård

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

Jane Doe Bar

Vintage two‑storey rock bar on Kyrkgatan with loud live sets, creative cocktails and hearty burgers in a poster‑covered, dimly lit interior.

4.3

Mackmyra Skybar i Lofsdalen

A cosy mountaintop bar at Hovärken offering whisky tastings, panoramic views and seasonal mountain events.

4.1

Toppen

Slope-top bar and daytime restaurant in Vemdalsskalet — warm food, hot drinks and broad mountain outlooks for skiers and walkers.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Vemdalen

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Bygget

Åre’s compact, high-energy après‑ski nightclub — loud DJs, drink-focused nights and a young crowd close to the slopes.

2.2

Best shops in Vemdalen

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Vemdalen Ski Shop

Pro-shop, workshop and bootfitting specialists in the heart of Vemdalsskalet — curated kit and skilled service for winter and summer mountain adventures.

4.7

Ekbergs Fiske & Fritid AB

A compact, two-storey outfitter in Vemdalen supplying fishing tackle, winter kit and local know-how for outdoor adventures.

4.6

Fjällkonditoriet Vemdalsskalet

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

5.0

Ekberg Outlet (Under Sommaren)

Seasonal summer outlet for Ekbergs Fiske & Fritid—discounted outdoor gear, fishing tackle and locally made footwear in central Vemdalen.

4.4

Explore Vemdalen on the Map

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

Vemdalen Essentials

Vemdalen is situated in the central part of Sweden, in the Jämtland County. The nearest major airport is Åre Östersund Airport, located approximately 120 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Vemdalen. Another option is to take a train to the nearby town of Sveg, which is about 50 kilometers from Vemdalen, and then continue by bus or taxi.
In Vemdalen, most attractions and activities are within a short distance, making walking a convenient option. For longer trips, local buses and taxis are available. Renting a car can provide flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas, including the nearby ski resorts and hiking trails. During the winter season, shuttle services are often available to transport visitors to and from the ski slopes.
The official currency in Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Vemdalen, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Vemdalen for cash withdrawals.
Vemdalen is generally a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Vemdalen, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Vemdalen has local healthcare facilities, and the nearest hospital is located in Sveg. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, especially during the winter months, as temperatures can be very cold. Avoid wearing overly flashy clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While Sweden is largely secular, it is polite to be respectful when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate to fellow passengers. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A friendly 'Hej' (hello) is commonly used. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes, including reindeer and other traditional Swedish foods. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Vemdalen like a local, visit the local markets and small shops where you can find handmade crafts and local produce. Engage with residents, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the area. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural scenery by hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter. For a unique experience, try a traditional Swedish sauna.

When is the best time to visit Vemdalen?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Vemdalen

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 Vemdalen. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHej
  [hey]
- GoodbyeAdjö
  [ad-yo]
- YesJa
  [ya]
- NoNej
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVarsågod
  [var-sa-good]
- Thank youTack
  [tahck]
- Excuse me/SorryUrsäkta mig
  [oor-sayk-ta me]
- How are you?Hur mår du?
  [hoor mor doo]
- Fine. And you?Bra. Och du?
  [bra. ock doo]
- Do you speak English?Talar du engelska?
  [tah-lar doo eng-els-ka]
- I don't understandJag förstår inte
  [yah for-stor in-te]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJag skulle vilja se menyn, tack
  [yah skool-le vil-ya seh meh-nin, tahck]
- I don't eat meatJag äter inte kött
  [yah eh-ter in-te shet]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skohl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJag skulle vilja betala, tack
  [yah skool-le vil-ya be-ta-la, tahck]
- Help!Hjälp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå iväg!
  [goh ee-veg]
- Call the Police!Ring polisen!
  [ring po-lee-sen]
- Call a doctor!Ring en läkare!
  [ring en leh-ka-re]
- I'm lostJag är vilse
  [yah air vil-seh]
- I'm illJag är sjuk
  [yah air shoook]
- I'd like to buy...Jag skulle vilja köpa...
  [yah skool-le vil-ya shoop-a]
- I'm just lookingJag tittar bara
  [yah tee-tar bar-a]
- How much is it?Hur mycket kostar det?
  [hoor mer-ket koss-tar deht]
- That's too expensiveDet är för dyrt
  [deht air for deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du sänka priset?
  [kan doo sen-ka pre-set]
- What time is it?Vad är klockan?
  [vahd air klo-kan]
- It's one o'clockKlockan är ett
  [klo-kan air eht]
- Half past (10)Halv tio
  [halv tee-oh]
- MorningMorgon
  [mor-gon]
- AfternoonEftermiddag
  [ef-ter-mee-dag]
- EveningKväll
  [kvell]
- YesterdayIgår
  [ee-gor]
- TodayIdag
  [ee-dahg]
- TomorrowImorgon
  [ee-mor-gon]
- 1Ett
  [eht]
- 2Två
  [tvo]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Fyra
  [feerah]
- 5Fem
  [fem]
- 6Sex
  [seks]
- 7Sju
  [sju]
- 8Åtta
  [ot-ta]
- 9Nio
  [nee-oh]
- 10Tio
  [tee-oh]
- Where's a/the...?Var finns en/den...?
  [var fins en/den]
- What's the address?Vad är adressen?
  [vahd air a-drass-en]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du visa mig (på kartan)?
  [kan doo vee-sa me (poh kart-an)]
- When's the next (bus)?När går nästa (buss)?
  [nair gor nes-ta (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)En biljett (till ....)
  [en beel-yet (teel)]

History of Vemdalen

Vemdalen's history dates back to the early 13th century when it was first mentioned in historical records. The area was initially inhabited by the Sami people, indigenous to the region, who relied on reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting for their livelihood. The name 'Vemdalen' is believed to have derived from the Old Norse word 'vemi,' which means 'swampy meadow,' reflecting the landscape of the area during that period.
In the 1600s, Swedish settlers began to move into Vemdalen, attracted by the fertile lands and abundant natural resources. These settlers established small farming communities, cultivating the land and raising livestock. The dense forests and rich soil provided timber and farmland, and the settlers' way of life began to shape the cultural landscape of Vemdalen.
In the 19th century, Vemdalen experienced significant growth due to the booming timber industry. The vast forests surrounding the area were a valuable resource, and timber became a major export product. Sawmills were established, and the logging industry provided employment for many local residents. This period of economic prosperity led to the development of infrastructure, including roads and railways, which connected Vemdalen to larger markets.
The early 20th century marked the beginning of Vemdalen's transformation into a popular tourist destination. Visitors were drawn to the area's stunning natural beauty, including its mountains, forests, and rivers. The construction of ski resorts and holiday cabins in the mid-20th century further boosted tourism, making Vemdalen a sought-after location for winter sports enthusiasts. This shift in the local economy from timber to tourism brought new opportunities and challenges for the community.
Vemdalen is rich in cultural heritage and traditions that reflect its historical roots. The local community celebrates various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Vemdalen Winter Market, which showcases traditional crafts, foods, and music. Additionally, the preservation of Sami culture is evident in local museums and cultural centers, where visitors can learn about Sami history, art, and traditions. The blend of Swedish and Sami influences creates a unique cultural tapestry that is central to Vemdalen's identity.