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places to visit in dalarna county

Dalarna – a miniature Sweden rich in nature and culture

Dalarna is a natural treasure featuring varied and vast landscapes offering all manner of outdoor activities – with fascinating history and cultural heritage to boot.

  • The long-distance cross-country ski race 'Vasaloppet' is the oldest of its kind in the world. It runs from Sälen to Mora.
  • 'Falu Rödfärg' – the rusty red-coloured paint giving many Swedish houses their distinctive character – contains pigment from Falun Mine.
  • Dalarna is home to Sweden’s southernmost Sámi village, Idre sameby.

Dalarna County, nestled in middle Sweden, leaves little to be desired. It's filled with natural beauty in the shape of hiking-friendly forests, mighty lakes, mountains and flower meadows – which the winters transform into terrain great for skiing and skating. With its all-encompassing landscapes, it’s easy to see why Dalarna has been described as a “miniature Sweden”.

Culturally speaking, two of Sweden’s most iconic symbols hail from Dalarna: the elaborately decorated ‘dalahäst’ (Dala Horse) and the unmistakably Swedish shade of ‘ Falu Rödfärg ’ (Falun Red) that adorns cottages across the country.

Dalarna is also the place to visit if you want to experience a Midsummer celebration with all the trimmings. Come June, join Swedes from across the country and head to Tällberg, Rättvik or Leksand – idyllic spots known for their wonderfully authentic Midsummer festivities (Midsummer Eve is always on a Friday between 19 and 25 June).

Tällberg in Dalarna

Flower meadow in the picturesque town of Tällberg in Dalarna, where all buildings are made of wood.

Photo : Visit Dalarna

Midsummer celebration

Photo : Anna Hållams/imagebank.sweden.se

Traditional houses in Dalarna

Photo : Anna Holm/Visit Dalarna

Sami culture and reindeer experiences

Photo : Marit Noorlander/Visit Dalarna

Falun – a UNESCO-listed historic gem

One of Dalarna’s claims to fame is its centuries-old UNESCO-listed Falun Mine , which saw the city of Falun grow into something of a superpower in the 17th century. Learn about this landmark’s history and other fascinating stories – such as that of Fet-Mats (“Fat Mats”), a naturally mummified miner found in 1719, perfectly intact 42 years after vanishing – on a guided tour down the mine. The site is located a pleasant walk from the city centre via Elsborg, a historic residential area dotted with wooden houses. The houses served as miner’s cottages, painted in Falu Rödfärg, made with pigment from the mine.

The legendary King Gustav Vasa is strongly associated with Falun. The Battle of Falun in February 1521 was the first scene of combat in the Swedish War of Liberation, and Vasa allegedly had to escape through a pit latrine to avoid capture by the Danes.

The Zorn museum, Mora

The artist home of the Zorn family is now a museum.

Inside Zorngården

Photo : Zornsamlingarna

Carl Larsson-gården in Sundborn

Photo : Per Eriksson/Carl Larsson-gården

Inside Karin and Carl Larsson's home

Photo : Per Myrehed/Carl Larsson-gården

The must-visit artist houses of Dalarna

Dalarna offers art-lovers a wealth of experiences. Carl and Karin Larsson are among Sweden’s most iconic artists, and their unique aesthetic has inspired generations. The pair’s family home, Carl Larsson-gården , is a much-loved world of art, interior design and Swedish cultural heritage. In addition to Carl Larsson’s famous paintings, you’ll discover wonderfully bold textiles and wooden rustic furniture designed by Karin. Take a guided tour and have a bite at Restaurant Hyttstugan , a short walk away, serving up fika and dishes made from local produce.

Anders Zorn, born in 1860, is another significant artist hailing from Dalarna. The Zorn Museum in Mora boasts the world’s largest collection of his work, including his famous portraits and watercolour scenes depicting rustic life in Dalarna. You can also pay a visit to his nearby home, Zorngården (The Zorn House), which has been historically preserved.

Worlds largest Dala Horse

Avesta is home to the largest Dala Horse in the world. It's 13 metres high and 12.8 metres long.

Photo : Anna Holm

Dala Horse in the making

Discover Dalarna’s folk art and famous Dala Horses

Kurbits is a folk art form with strong ties to Dalarna. The ornate, often floral-based, painting style was popularly applied to wooden furniture in the 18th and 19th centuries. It also adorns the hand-carved Swedish classic dalahäst – (Dala Horse). Nils Olsson Hemslöjd workshop in the village of Nusnäs has been in business since the 1920s and is celebrated as one of the original purveyors of these covetable folk art pieces. Observe artisans at work during a tour, or even paint your own horse.

Avesta is home to the largest Dala Horse in the world. Towering 13 metres, it’s hard to miss as you enter the region’s southern parts.

Hiking at Grövelsjön

The nature of Dalarna is ideal for hiking and biking. Here, a reindeer hike with Renbiten at Grövelsjön.

Photo : Tobbe Nilsson

Canoeing in Idre

Photo : Idre Fjäll

Mountain biking in Dalarna

Fulufjället National Park and Njupeskär

Photo : Kola Production

Idre fjäll, Dalarna

Photo : Idre fjäll

Adventure Mine, Dalarna

Dalarna's wide span of outdoor activities

The nature of Dalarna is epic, with endless forests studded with majestic waterfalls and lakes – the crowning glory being Lake Siljan, the seventh largest in Sweden. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, fishing and kayaking. Siljansleden is a popular trail snaking around the entirety of the lake, perfect for hiking and, in some parts, mountain biking.

Also, consider the Dalkarlsvägen network of trails. This historic migration route takes you all the way from Dalarna to Stockholm. The route is divided into stretches, each one running between 20 and 37 kilometres, with plenty of natural beauty and cultural sites to take in along the way.

With its 30 metre-high rock walls, Helvetesfallet is a must-see natural wonder. You’ll find this extraordinary canyon on the river Ämån. And don’t miss the spectacularly beautiful Fulufjället National Park – a mountainous area near the Norwegian border.

Whether you’re into cross-country skiing, alpine skiing or snowboarding, Dalarna is a snow sport enthusiast’s paradise. Idre and Sälen are two excellent ski resorts with a range of activities for the whole family.

For a nature experience out of the ordinary, visit the Adventure Mine's sauna in Idkerberget, southwest of Falun. Located 80 metres below ground, this unusual place offers both adventure and relaxation thanks to the mine sauna ritual, which includes a guided tour through dark tunnels and bathing possibilities in the crystal-clear water surrounding the illuminated sauna.

Sahlin Struts, Dalarna

Local food at Sahlin Struts, an ostrich farm in Borlänge.

Murboannas in Borlänge

Reindeer charcuteries from Renbiten

The authentic flavours of Dalarna

Dalarna’s culinary heritage has had an impact on Sweden as a whole. The much-loved classic, ‘falukorv’ (Falu sausage) is a giant U-shaped sausage, made from a grated mixture of smoked pork and beef and mild spices, enjoyed countrywide. With roots in the copper-mining community, it is made according to strict regulations.

The Borlänge ostrich farm Sahlins Struts has an onsite restaurant serving up ostrich burgers and more. And locally produced cheese is the order of the day at Murboannas deli in the same city.

Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in Dalarna’s Sami culture at Idre-based Renbiten – a family-run shop and café offering traditional, homemade Sami dishes such as reindeer soup.

Fryksås Hotel , housed within a historic homestead in Orsa, is a fine dining option with a menu based on locally sourced, seasonal produce – spanning delicious meat, fish and greens.

For more restaurants around the county, search Visit Dalarna's website .

PRACTICAL INFORMATION BEFORE YOUR TRIP TO DALARNA

Trains, operated by SJ , run frequently to and from the main hubs of Dalarna – Falun, Borlänge, Avesta and Mora – and beyond.

Scandinavian Mountains Airport , located in Sälen, is the region’s local airport.

SJ will take you from one spot to the next within Dalarna and beyond. And once at your destination, you’ll find a well-established network of walking and biking paths. The public transport authority – Dalatrafik – operates buses within Dalarna’s hubs and outskirts.

The idyllic village of Tällberg is stunningly situated overlooking Lake Siljan. All buildings are made of wood and there are eight hotels to choose between, each with its own character.

Näsets Marcusgård is a countryside hub in beautiful Furudal serving up a variety of accommodation, from converted farm building to tree hut.

Kungshaga Hotell is located near Orsasjön (Lake Orsa) and offers a variety of rooms, among them a unique floating room reached by kayak or boat.

Find more hotels in the region at Visit Dalarna's website .

Falun Mine is a UNESCO site offering mine visits, a museum and more.

Dalhalla – an open-air theatre hosting a variety of concerts and performances – is housed within a former limestone quarry, 60 metres deep and 400 metres long.

Cykelvasan is the mountain bike equivalent of the famous ski race Vasaloppet .

Silverringen cultural trail lets you step back in time, highlighting the silver/iron mining process.

Tomteland – Santa World – is a Mora-based, fairytale-inspired theme park.

Lakeside adventure park Leksand Sommarland offers activities such as go-kart, water slides, pools and an array of exhilarating rides.

Borlänge is home to Maserhallen Aqua Nova waterpark.

The finish line at the famous ski race Vasaloppet in Dalarna.

Photo : Vasaloppet

Stay at Supermåne in Dalarna

Photo : Näsets Marcusgård

Concert at Dalhalla

Photo : Göran Broberg/Dalhalla

Tomteland in Dalarna

Photo : Sagolandet Tomteland

Leksand Sommarland

Photo : Leksand Resort

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

Things to do in dalarna county, explore popular experiences, popular cities in dalarna county.

places to visit in dalarna county

Outdoor Activities

places to visit in dalarna county

Top Attractions in Dalarna County

places to visit in dalarna county

What travellers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

Things to do in dalarna county, explore popular experiences, popular cities in dalarna county.

places to visit in dalarna county

Outdoor Activities

places to visit in dalarna county

Top Attractions in Dalarna County

places to visit in dalarna county

What travellers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

Must-see attractions in Dalarna

Famous swedish pit Falu Gruva, once a major source for copper.

Falun’s kopparbergs gruva was the world’s most important copper mine by the 17th century. Called 'Sweden's treasure chest', it drove the small country's…

The home of Swedish artists Carl and Karin Larsson in Sundborn, Sweden.

Carl Larsson-gården

Don’t miss Sweden's 'most famous home', located 13km northeast of Falun in the picturesque village of Sundborn. After their deaths, the early-20th-century…

places to visit in dalarna county

Munthe’s Hildasholm

Lake Siljan

Built by Axel Munthe (1857–1949), who served as the Swedish royal physician and wrote the best-selling memoir The Story of San Michele, this sumptuously…

The Zorn family house, Zorngården, is an excellent example of a wealthy artist’s residence and reflects Anders Zorn’s National Romantic aspirations (check…

Långfjällets Natureservat

Occupying a whopping 664-sq-km, this vast nature reserve is most commonly approached from Grövelsjön and is a haven for birdlife and all manner of Nordic…

Mine Museum

The Falu Gruva mine museum, just behind the ticket-sales building at the entrance to the mining complex, contains everything you could possibly want to…

Dalarnas Museum

Dalarnas Museum is a super introduction to Swedish folk art, music and costumes. It's kid-friendly, too, with the opposite of the usual 'Do not touch'…

Vasaloppsmuseet

Even if you have no interest in skiing, you may be pleasantly surprised by the excellent Vasaloppsmuseet, which really communicates the passion behind the…

Lugnets Skidmuseum

For something completely different, ride the funicular and elevator to this thoroughly original panoramic museum atop the iconic ski-jump tower looming…

Naturum Dalarna

This visitor centre and nature park, 16km northwest of Leksand, has information about the meteor that hit several million years ago and local flora and…

Rättviks Gammelgård

You can get your open-air-museum fix at Rättviks gammelgård, 500m north of the kyrka – it’s a collection of buildings that were moved here during the…

Japanska Parken

In recognition of the town's sister-city-hood with Tobetsu, Japan, you'll find this lovely (and authentic) Japanese garden by the shores of Lake Siljan…

Stora Kopparbergs Kyrka

Falun’s oldest building is Stora Kopparbergs Kyrka, dating from the late 14th century, with brick vaulting and folk-art flowers running round the walls.

Långbryggan

Scandinavia’s longest wooden pier, the impressive 628m Långbryggan, runs out into the lake from just behind the train station.

Kristine Kyrka

A sea of baroque blue and gold hits you at Kristine Kyrka (built 1642–55), which shows off the riches brought to town by the 17th-century copper trade. In…

Zornmuseet displays many of the best-loved portraits and characteristic nudes of Mora painter Anders Zorn (1860–1920), one of Sweden’s most renowned…

Gravfälten på Sollerön

Head to Sollerö Hembygdsgård for a map and local knowledge on how best to explore this fragile, historical site featuring a 3km walking trail among…

Vidablick Utsiktstorn

An enterprising 17-year-old built Vidablick Utsiktstorn, a viewing tower about 5km southeast of town, from where there are great panoramas of the lake. On…

Leksands Kyrka

Leksands Kyrka, with its distinctive onion dome, dates from the early 13th century but has been extensively renovated and enlarged. The church contains…

Sollerö Hembygdsgård

Begin your explorations of Gravfälten på Sollerön from this 19th century Sollerö farm where you'll also find a viking ship and locals to point you in the…

Rättviks Kyrka

The 13th-century church has 87 well-preserved church stables, the oldest dating from 1470. The pseudo-rune memorial beside the church commemorates the…

Rättviks Kulturhus

This local museum complex houses the Rättviks bibliotek (library), art exhibitions and a display describing the Siljan meteor impact. The helpful staff go…

More destinations you need to see

The Linnaeus Garden, Aquarium lacustre with orangery behind, Hammarby, Sweden

Top Things to Do in Dalarna County

Things to do in dalarna county, explore popular experiences, popular cities in dalarna county.

places to visit in dalarna county

Outdoor Activities

places to visit in dalarna county

Top Attractions in Dalarna County

places to visit in dalarna county

What travellers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

Claudia Travels

Ultimate guide of things to do in Dalarna, Sweden

The province of Dalarna, Sweden, is one of the most striking regions in this gorgeous country in Scandinavia. Meaning ‘the valleys,’ Dalarna is often referred to as ‘Sweden in miniature’ due to its topography of mountains in the north, deep forests and lakes throughout, and rolling farmland in the southern region.

Add on the iconic ‘ Falu röd’  (Falum red) cottages around every winding road, and you’re looking at a microcosm of IKEA-land in real life. This is Peak Sweden.

From enjoying outdoor fika  to playing 11 th  century Viking games, discovering lagom and lingonberries in mossy Swedish forests, and learning of festive Midsummer traditions, there’s no shortage of adventurous things to do in Dalarna, Sweden.

swedish cottage in dalarna

Things to do in Dalarna, Sweden

Embrace lagom and allemansrätt.

My search for lagom , Swedish for ‘just the right amount’ hit the jackpot in Rättvik, a small town in Dalarna on the shore of Lake Siljan. I had no problem figuring out what to do in Dalarna. From wandering in emerald pine forests, discovering more varieties of mushrooms, lichens and red lingonberries then I thought existed, and spending nights suspended in a Supermoon, my time in Dalarna refreshed and rejuvenated my spirit.

The concept of  lagom , along with the equally important freedom to roam –  allemansrätt –  define certain key traits of the Swedish character and identity.

The latter ideal refers to the right to wander freely through nature. Allemansrätt comes with responsibilities. To take care of the forest and natural places in the country. To pack out what you bring in, to replace the wood you used in your fire. To take time to enjoy the natural world, breathe the air, drink the clean water. In this time of climate crises and anxiety, these sustainable ways of life are something that we all need to embrace.

forest in dalarna in fall

Stay in a Supermoon in the woods

Just north of Rättvik in the little hamlet of Furudal is one of the most unique accommodation options anywhere in the country.

Built among the tall pines at Näsets Marcusgård , the unique Supermåne  (Supermoon) is a suspended sphere, attached to trees by way of strong aeronautical cabling. The Supermoon can accommodate up to three people but is ideal for singles or couples.

Guests climb up the steps to the little sphere in the sky, which doesn’t sway as much as you’d think. The clear round window above the bed showcases the night sky and stars. The canvas walls of the ‘moon’ are insulated. This helps keep the heat produced by the most adorable little wood stove in. A Stay in the supermen makes for an unforgettable night in the woods.

moon sphere in dalarna

Enjoy fika in the forest

The tradition of fika – sitting down to enjoy something to eat and drink – is an important part of Swedish culture. It is so much more than downing a cup of coffee in a hasty rush. It’s about being present either alone or with friends and enjoying the moment.

kettle on woodier

You can enjoy fika anywhere, but it’s particularly fabulous outdoors on a Green Owl Travel  tour at an open campfire in the forests of Dalarna. Many Ekoparks and forests in Sweden have fire pits with plentiful wood supplies. But many Swedes pack in kindling and leave extra behind for the next visitor to enjoy. Traditional fika foods include sweet treats like cinnamon rolls or my favorite, cardamom buns.

places to visit in dalarna county

Dance around the Midsummer Pole

Being Sweden in miniature ensures that few take Midsummer  quite as seriously as those living in Dalarna. Some of the liveliest and largest summer solstice celebrations can be found in Rättvik and throughout the countryside.

Midsummer celebrates the longest day of the year, the summer solstice in June. In Dalarna, the festivities of maypole dances, songs, and floral decorations go on for several days, and are genuinely magical.

people dancing around midsummer pole in sweden

Pick lingonberries

Picking wild berries and mushrooms in the forest is an annual right of mid-summer and mid-fall in Dalarna and Sweden. When I lived in Sweden in the 1980s, going picking for wild berries was one of the first activities I did with my host family.  Tart red lingonberries and wild blueberries carpet the forest floor is. Swedes pick them during the autumn season, to make jams or to freeze over winter.

Locals use special prong-baskets or pickers to ‘comb’ the low bushes to collect as many berries as possible. A red or blue-stained hand is the sign of a very good day out in the forest.

ripe red lingonberries

Visit the Falun Mine Museum

The great Falun Mine  is now a World Heritage site and museum that highlights the powerful industrial history of Dalarna. Once the biggest copper mine in Europe, mining in this region goes back 1,000 years.

70% of the worlds’ copper was once produced here. Guests can wander the depths of the mine by donning hard hats and going on an underground tour. Above ground, the Little Mine Train ferries guest round the Great Pit and to the Mine Museum, home to educational exhibitions.

falun mine in dalarna

Bring a Dala Horse home

The orange carved and painted wooden statue of a horse is an important symbol of this Swedish province. And it makes the perfect trip souvenir. The tradition began when men working in the forests carved little wooden horses for their children to play with. Each town in Dalarna has its own colour and version of the Dala Horse  (Rättvik’s is grey), but the iconic decorated red-orange horse from the little village of Nusnas in Dalarna has become the authentic symbol of the Swedish dala horse.

dala horse

Take a walk in the forest

In Dalarna, the deep green forests are biodiverse ecosystems of trees, lichen, moss and fungi. Walking through moss-covered erratic boulders and spongey forest floor of Ekopark Ejheden with local biologist Sebastian Kirppu is a revelation.

lingonberries in dalarna

The air smells of pine and loamy earth, and there are mushrooms everywhere. The Swedish concept of allemansrätt   ensures that everyone has the right to roam freely in the forest in search of mushrooms or lingonberries. But there is also a responsibility to respect the land and its creatures, which can include moose, elk, wolves and bears in this region.

Visit Ärteråsen summer farm

Dating back to the 15 th century, Ärteråsen in Rättvik  is one of the largest preserved Swedish summer grazing farms. So, what’s a summer grazing farm?

It’s a place in the countryside where farmers would take their animals to graze in open meadows and in the forest.

Ärteråsen was at its peak in the middle of the 19th century. At that time there were 22 cabins and 36 caretakers for the animals. Several families shared the cabins, and hundreds of animals grazed open meadows and in the forest. Today only 12 cabins remain and during the summer months cows still graze in the meadow.

Just up the hill from the farm is a fire observation tower which is about 400 m above sea level. The views from the top offer a panorama of the beautiful Dalarna countryside.

grazing farm in dalarna

Visit an evil waterfall

Styggforsen (which means evil water), is in a unique nature reserve. The special environment has given rise to some imaginative legends, a 36-metre waterfall and unique geology.

Some 400 million years ago, a meteorite struck this region. It created a massive crater that raised the hills and pushed up the limestone to the point where it could be mined. It also raised the former prehistoric sea floor to a nearly vertical position of 90%.

Its geological significance promoted an industrial history of iron and copper mining. Including at Falun, home to one of the largest copper mines in the world. The waterfall and river were also used for grinding wheat and power generation in the past 200 years. But now the region makes for a lovely half day hike  in nature.

waterfall in dalarna

Walk the shore of Lake Siljan

Lake Siljan is the sixth largest lake in Sweden. A walk around the lake would take more than a day. But there’s an easy 7 km hike along its shore from Rättvik to Vikarbyn village that’s worth a half-day trip.

The lakeside hike goes by several several historic sites and buildings. You’ll pass several beautiful stugas  (cottages) and bathhouses with lake views, surrounded by dense forest.

Bike the Countryside

Pedal down country roads and discover the beauty and geological history of Dalarna by bicycle . The 26 km route passes through forested countryside, into old limestone quarries and stops at ceramic factories.

Rättvik is home to Dalhalla , an open-air amphitheater and music arena located in an old limestone quarry. The acoustics are out of this world. This outdoor venue is a popular summer concert hall for rock bands and operas.

biking in dalarna

Ride on a steamboat tour on Ljugaren

Piloted by captain Gösta Carlberg and his first mate Cliff the border collie, the Agnes  is a functioning steamship. Agnes was built in 1899, and still plies the waters of Ljugaren. It’s one of 200 steamships in Sweden. A wood-burning boiler powers the beautiful wooden boat, which can reach a max speed of 6.5 knots. It’s a perfect pace for passing idyllic red cottages on tiny islands in the lake.

The boat tour brings visitors to the rocky island in the middle of the lake. This is where Gustav Vasa hid while fleeing the Danes in the 1500s. Cottages and a summer grazing area dot the lake’s shoreline.

wooden boat agnes in dalarna

Play Viking at Stornäset

Many feared the legendary ancestors of the Swedes. But their way of life and work remains fascinating even today.

Guests can immerse themselves in a Viking lifestyle, if only for a few hours, at Stornäset, or Viking House. Local Rättvik couple Sune and Ingrid Bergman built an authentic Viking longhouse over a span of four years. They host fun and educational celebrations of Viking culture for guests.

woman showing arrow in darlana

I transformed into a Viking Shield Maiden of Rättvik. While holding a heavy wooden shield and finely wrought metal sword was a struggle, my archery skills were on point. We earned our firelight dinner of beef stew with black currants and mead. Surrounded by animal pelts covering the hand-hewn log walls of the longhouse. This immersive experience gives guests a taste for how Vikings lived, survived and thrived a thousand years ago.

people playing viking in dalarna

Dalarna has upteen scenic lakes with perch, arctic char, trout and pike. There are many outfitters who take guests out for angle, fly, and spin fishing. You will need a fishing license, but if you go with a local outfit like GuideFathers, everything, including tackle and bait, is provided.

man fishing in dalarna

Visit the Church of Rättvik

The Church of Rättvik has been located on the Lake of Siljan since the 13th century. The original wooden church was replaced by limestone church after a catastrophic fire. There’s a large stone monument here to Gustav Vasa, first king of Sweden. The people of Dalarna (who have a reputation for stubbornness) helped the King when he was being pursued by Danes.

Intriguingly, the church is surrounded by 90 wooden church stables, some dating back to the 15 th century. The stables were owned by individual families of the parish. They were used to house their horses during Sunday services to keep them warm. Many parishioners would also arrive via church boat. A type of long wooden craft similar to Viking ships that villagers would use to row to Church.

church stables in rättvik

Ski the Vasaloppet

Winter transforms Dalarna into a wonderland of snow sports like snow shoeing, ice skating and cross-country skiing. Its marquee event is the world’s most famous cross-country ski race, the Vasaloppet .

This race is named after King Gustav Vasa and his successful ski escape (with only one ski pole) from the Danes. The race is 90 km and draws more than 12,000 skiers between Salen and Mora. Note: There are shorter races during the event, for those not inclined to tackle the full length. In summer, mountain bikes cycle this same route in the CykelVasan event

vasaloppet ski race

Where to Stay in Rättvik

Nasets Marcusgård . Owners Marielle and Willem have set up a unique variety of accommodations in the little hamlet of Furudal, north of Rättvik.

In addition to a beautiful farmhouse divided into apartments and large shared spaces, they’ve constructed two very unique cabin structures on the property – the Supermåne  and Oddis Öga , a four-person cabin.

The Supermoon is suspended in the forest using aeronautical cabling attached to pine trees. It’s ideal for singles or couples, offering a memorable night out in the Swedish forest.

The Oddis Öga (Oddity’s Eye) cabin sits upon a hill with wonderful forest views through its large round windows. The cabin can accommodate a family of four in cosy comfort with a superb tiny wood stove for warmth.

oddity's eye in dalarna

Lustigsgården . This lovely family-owned Bed and Breakfast is just 15 minutes from the center of Rättvik. Fourteen Scandi-chic rooms are located in two buildings on a property that’s been a hotel since the 1700s. Most of the rooms have beautiful views of Lake Siljan and the town.

Owners Ulrica and Niclas prepare a buffet breakfast every morning that includes hard-boiled eggs, variety of meats and cheeses, as well as local bread, yoghurt, jams and honey.

interior of lustigsgarden in dalarna

Need more Europe in your life? Read on!

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Photo credit: C Laroye; Shutterstock

Disclosure: The writer thanks Green Owl Travel for hosting her time in Dalarna. As always, her opinions and love of fika, dala horses and walks in mossy forests are honest and her own.

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archery and viking buildings in dalarna sweden

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places to visit in dalarna county

Finally Lost

About Dalarna

We believe that Dalarna might be the most Swedish part of Sweden. Here, you’ll find all the things that are typical Swedish. For example, this is the place where the Dala Horse came to life. The midsummer parties are like nowhere else and all the cities and villages have something unique to offer its visitors. There are loads of bucket list experiences in Dalarna!

After spending a month and a half, driving around in Dalarna – we have found the hidden gems, the highlights and the things to do in Dalarna you don’t want to miss out on. And so, if you are looking for the best of Dalarna, you are at the right place.

places to visit in dalarna county

Top 10 things to do in Dalarna

Top 1 things to do when traveling

See Sweden’s highest waterfall

Njupeskär is the name of Sweden’s highest waterfall. About 93 meters high and one of the main attractions inside Fulufjällets National Park . In the national park, you have several different trails that make for some great hiking. Make sure to check out the world’s oldest tree “Old Tjikko” inside the park too.

Top 2 things to do when traveling

Take a walk with reindeers

At Renbiten, there are several different attractions that you can do as you interact with reindeers. One of them is getting to feed them and another one is to take them out for a walk. Walking with reindeers is relaxing and soothing. You will stop half-way and have some coffee and snacks. An amazing experience!

Top 3 things to do when traveling

Try Glamping – A high-end experience

One tent. One place and one special adventure. Park your car and walk into the middle of nowhere. Get ready to explore some real silence and pamper yourself. Take a walk to the lake and take a dip. Glamping in Dalarna is the new black and no one does it as good as Camilla Linnér, the owner of this place. Dinner and breakfast is included.

Top 4 things to do when traveling

Experience a mustard tasting

Forget about wine- or cheese tastings. Mustard is the way to go. Mustard tasting at LissEllas is something that will stay with you forever. It’s interesting to see how many different mustards there are. Who knew that there’s a chocolate-mustard? Or what about a mustard with blueberries? Best of all is that they all taste great!

Top 5 things to do when traveling

The home of the Swedish Dala horse

The Dala horse might be the most Swedish thing ever. Just outside of Mora , you can see how the horses are made. Follow the whole process and be amazed by the painters that give the Dala horses their beautiful patterns . If you want, you can buy unpainted horses to bring home and paint as you like!

Top 6 things to do when traveling

Hike in Grövelsjön

In the northern parts of Dalarna you will find Grövelsjön. This is where you want to be if you are up for hiking. There are several paths that you can hike, and they are for different levels of hikers. If you are up for it, a hike to Sylen is incredible . It takes you from Sweden, into Norway, and then back into Sweden. Don’t miss this one!

Top 7 things to do when traveling

Verket & Avesta Art

A must visit while in Dalarna. Verket is an old steel factory that has turned into an interactive museum and art gallery. Avesta Art changes each year and new exhibitions are replacing the old once. However, some of the exhibitions are permanent and you can admire them each year. Verket & Avesta Art is fun for the whole family .

Top 8 things to do when traveling

Kulinariet – A food market and restaurant

Located somewhat in the middle of nowhere, Kulinariet opens a new world as you enter . Come inside an enjoy incredible food and drinks. Watch the popular Swedish crispbread being made and shop delicacies in their store. Everything inside Kulinaret is right on point – from the food to the interior design.

Top 9 things to do when traveling

Visit a traditional Swedish Fäbod

A Fäbod is like a small chalet or a small farm. Fäbodar is very special in Dalarna and there are several different ones that you can visit during the summer. Karl-Tövåsens Fäbod is the longest-running chalet in the country and to this day, they do almost everything at the farm as they did during the old days. See the animals and the churning of butter. 

Top 10 things to do when traveling

Learn all about porphyry and the “Elvis” guitars

Start your visit by seeing the old workshop where porphyry was made into vases, boxes and other knickknacks. This is interesting and fun (who knew that stone can be fun?!). Make your way to the museum and see more artifacts made of porphyry and admire a huge collection of the famous Hagström guitars that Elvis made famous.

Places to visit - Explore travel guide

Things to do in Dalarna

8 things to do in Rättvik during summer

8 things to do in Rättvik during summer

Last updated Jul 17, 2021

8 things to do in Rättvik is a list of our favorite places in this beautiful city in Dalarna, Sweden. Here, you can not only find the world's longest lake bridge. No, Rättvik has...

Ornässtugan – To Do in Dalarna

Ornässtugan – To Do in Dalarna

Last updated Jul 1, 2021

Ornässtugan might have one of the most interesting stories to tell. It's considered to be one of the most important and famous timber buildings in Sweden. And, there's also a...

Avesta Visentpark – To do in Dalarna

Avesta Visentpark – To do in Dalarna

Apr 5, 2021

Avesta Visentpark is a great place to visit during the summer. Visent, or European bison is an animal that almost got extinct after 1920. But due to one man and his ideas - they...

Sleep in a bubble in Dalarna, Sweden – A unique and odd Hotel

Sleep in a bubble in Dalarna, Sweden – A unique and odd Hotel

Last updated Jun 22, 2021

Sleep in a bubble is that a thing? Well, yes it is! The trend of sleeping in odd places and hotels seems to be a trend that is here to stay. But how is it to actually spend the...

10 things to do in Mora during summer

10 things to do in Mora during summer

10 things to do in Mora makes up a list of things to do while visiting the city in Dalarna, Sweden. The town is mostly famous for being the end-stop of the famous Vasaloppet. And...

Fulufjället National Park – To do in Dalarna

Fulufjället National Park – To do in Dalarna

Last updated Aug 3, 2021

Fulufjället National Park - In fact, it's two national parks in one, combining two countries and creating a unique hiking spot. Welcome to Fulufjället in Sweden. Come and see...

What to eat - Food travel guide

Food and drink in Dalarna

Tallberg – A true gem in Dalarna, Sweden

Tallberg – A true gem in Dalarna, Sweden

Last updated May 9, 2021

Tallberg (Tällberg in Swedish) is a very popular small village in Dalarna. It's said that being in Dalarna without visiting Tallberg is like being at a wedding without seeing the...

Kulinariet – Where crispbread beat the odds and a rich history

Kulinariet – Where crispbread beat the odds and a rich history

Last updated Apr 14, 2021

Kulinariet in Stora Skedvi in southern Dalarna is a place full of surprises. You have no idea what you're up for until you enter. This is a culinary experience out of this world....

Dinner in Nature in Kloster and Husbyringen

Dinner in Nature in Kloster and Husbyringen

Dinner in Nature in Kloster is an incredible experience - and we are pretty sure that no one can say anything else. It's something special, something gourmet, and yet something...

Where to stay - Food travel guide

Where to stay in Dalarna

Nasets Marcusgard – spend the night in a supermoon

Nasets Marcusgard – spend the night in a supermoon

Nasets Marcusgard (Näsets Marcusgård) in Swedish is definitely a special place. Not only will you enjoy a relaxed night up in the trees but here you will also make friends with...

Glamping in Dalarna – Swedish silence at it’s best

Glamping in Dalarna – Swedish silence at it’s best

Glamping in Dalarna is the new black. In fact, glamping has never been as big as it is now. We had the most incredible experience in Dalarna at Camilla Linnér's place. It's such...

Top Things to Do in Mora, Sweden

Places to visit in mora.

  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Good for a Rainy Day
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good for Big Groups
  • Good for Couples
  • Good for Kids
  • Adventurous
  • Hidden Gems
  • Honeymoon spot
  • Good for Adrenaline Seekers
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

places to visit in dalarna county

1. Zorn Museum

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2. Zorngården

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3. Zorns gammelgard och draktkammaren

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4. Siljansfors Skogsmuseum

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5. Mora Skidstadion

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6. Mora Kopstad

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7. Mora Kyrka

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8. Vasastatyn

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9. Statyn ''vasalöparen''

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10. Moras Dalahäst

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11. Statyn ''s:t Mikael Och Draken''

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12. Vasaloppmålsportalen

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13. Kyrkogatan

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14. Alderangarna

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15. Mora-nisses Torg

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16. Ångloket

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17. Dala Bike Life

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18. Mora Hyrkart

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19. Vattnas Konsertlada

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20. Farnas Hemslojd & Snickerier

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21. Mora Hemslojd

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22. Morakniv Concept Store

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23. Mora Spasalong

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24. Ångfartyget Tomten

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25. Bergsilder Forest Camp

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26. Jim Schofield

What travellers are saying.

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  • Zorn Museum
  • Zorns gammelgard och draktkammaren
  • Siljansfors Skogsmuseum
  • Mora Kopstad

Restaurant inspections: 10 things to know about them in Naples, Fort Myers, Cape, Bonita

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Note to readers: The News-Press and Naples Daily News are providing special coverage of food and dining this week. We will have interesting and unique Southwest Florida food and dining stories published on our websites from Sunday, April 28 to Sunday, May 5. Bon Appetit!

With thousands of restaurants in Southwest Florida, the possibilities are endless when deciding where to go out to eat.

Yet some restaurants provide a much safer food environment than others. At the Naples Daily News and the News-Press, we provide readers with weekly restaurant inspections in Collier and Lee counties so readers can make informed decisions.

More: 'Weird' pizza toppings: We found grasshoppers, Peeps, waffle fries and more on SWFL menus

And some may not know that people are twice as likely to get food poisoning by eating at a restaurant than at home, the Center for Science in the Public Interest has reported. Formed in 1971, the Center is an independent, science-based consumer advocacy organization focused on improving the food system to support healthy eating.

Here are10 things to know about restaurant inspections :

What agency inspects restaurants in Florida?

Routine regulation and inspection of restaurants is conducted by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The Department of Health is responsible for investigation and control of food-borne illness outbreaks associated with all food establishments.

Are Florida restaurants required to report violations?

Florida's restaurant owners are not required to post restaurant inspection results where guests can see them. So that's why we provide that information for you weekly.

How often do inspectors visit a Florida restaurant?

The Florida DBPR requires two inspections per year. These scheduled inspections are never scheduled and often occur without notice. Restaurants sometimes are inspected more than that. And besides restaurants, inspectors review operations at food trucks and caterers.

What happens when a Florida restaurant is shut down because of a bad inspection?

A 24-hour call-back inspection will be performed after an emergency closure or suspension of license. If the restaurant has not complied, it will remain closed until it does.

Are new Florida restaurants inspected before opening?

Yes, as some of our restaurant inspections will show in the list of those receiving perfect inspections.

What is an inspection report?

The Florida DBPR describes an inspection report as a "snapshot" of conditions present at the time of the inspection. On any given day, an establishment may have fewer or more violations than noted in their most recent inspection. An inspection conducted on any given day may not be representative of the overall, long-term conditions at the establishment.

Is there a national food inspection code?

There's no federal standard food code regulation. Check with your local health department for food code regulations in your state. It's up to every state to decide how to set up its food code regulations.

How do I report a dirty restaurant in Florida?

If you see abuses of state standards, report them and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation will send inspectors. Call the Florida DBPR at 850-487-1395 or  report a restaurant for health violations online .

What are terms inspectors use, what they mean

  • Basic violations : Those considered against best practices.
  • Warning : Issued after an inspector documents violations that must be corrected by a certain date or within a specified number of days from receipt of the inspection report.
  • Administrative complaint : A a form of legal action taken by the division. Insufficient compliance after a warning, a pattern of repeat violations or existence of serious conditions that warrant immediate action may result in the division initiating an administrative complaint against the establishment. Says the division website: "Correcting the violations is important, but penalties may still result from violations corrected after the warning time was over."
  • Emergency order : This is when a restaurant is closed by the inspector and is based on an immediate threat to the public. Here, the Florida Division of Hotels and Restaurants director has determined that the establishment must stop doing business and any division license is suspended to protect health, safety or welfare of the public.

What 4 areas are inspectors checking

  • Foodborne illness risk factors and public health interventions : This means food protection during preparation, storage, and display.
  • Good retail practices : Examples include rooms and equipment that must have proper ventilation.
  • Food temperatures : They shouldn't fall below 41 and 135 degrees, as those temperatures are where food becomes susceptible to bacteria.
  • Other items related to proper business operation : One example would be inspecting the restaurant or food truck's primary water source.

You can use our database to  search by county or by restaurant name .

Dave Osborn is the regional features editor of the Naples Daily News and News-Press. Follow him on Instagram and Threads @lacrossewriter and on X (formerly Twitter) @NDN_dosborn .

Trump expected back on the campaign trail in Wisconsin

Former President Donald Trump will make another stop in Wisconsin this week for a campaign rally as his criminal hush money trial continues in New York.

The presumptive Republican nominee will speak at the Waukesha County Expo Center on Wednesday, May 1, at 2 p.m. local time. This return visit marks his second to the state a month after he held a rally in Green Bay on April 2.

More: Trump trial live updates: Judge rules Trump violated gag order 9 times

Wisconsin could prove decisive in the 2024 presidential election

In a battleground state, both presidential frontrunners appeared focused on securing Wisconsin voters’ support during this election cycle. President Joe Biden visited Milwaukee in August last year to promote his jobs and climate agenda.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

A poll conducted by the Emerson College and The Hill in April revealed Trump led Biden by two points in the state. However, Wisconsin Independents and voters who belong to labor unions favor Biden over Trump, according to the poll.

More: Joe Biden trails Donald Trump in new national poll on 2024 election

Trump plans to attack Biden’s term in Waukesha rally

Trump’s speech Wednesday will “contrast the peace, prosperity, and security of his first term with Joe Biden’s failed presidency,” his campaign team said in a release.

“Biden’s failures are crushing the citizens of Wisconsin,” his team said in the release. “The bottom line is that the Badger State is suffering under Biden, and President Trump will once again deliver safety and affordability to Wisconsin!”

Trump plans to discuss crime, border policy, and the opioid crisis, his team added.

Rachel Barber is a 2024 election fellow at USA TODAY, focusing on politics and education. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, as @rachelbarber_

Top Things to Do in Dalarna County

Things to do in dalarna county, explore popular experiences, popular cities in dalarna county.

places to visit in dalarna county

Outdoor Activities

places to visit in dalarna county

Top Attractions in Dalarna County

places to visit in dalarna county

What travellers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

List of 2024 Atlantic hurricane names leads with Alberto. See which retired this year

The 2024 hurricane season began with alberto, beryl and chris..

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A potentially strong hurricane season appears to be on the horizon. Forecasts suggest that this season, which officially begins on June 1, could see more than double the average number of named storms, led by Alberto, Beryl and Chris.

According to an earlier report from USA TODAY, historical weather data from 1991 to 2020 indicates that a typical Atlantic hurricane season features around 14 tropical storms, seven of which intensify into hurricanes.

But an early forecast from hurricane experts at the University of Pennsylvania predicts the possibility of up to 33 named storms this season; Texas falls second only to Florida in terms of the number of hurricanes making landfall.

Let's hope that only a fraction of the named storms on the list are used this season.

More: Where do most hurricanes hit in Texas? See storm strikes by county since 1900

Here is the list of names for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season

The names are given out in alphabetical order, and they alternate between names traditionally assigned to males and females. Each new storm gets the next name on the list. There are no Q, U, X, Y or Z names because of the lack of usable names that begin with those letters.

Only six lists of names actually exist, meaning the list rotates every six years unless a hurricane resulted in significant damage, injuries or fatalities, in which the name is retired.

Two newly selected names joined the list for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season in place of Florence and Michael.

The category 4 Hurricane Florence hit North Carolina in August 2018, killing 53 people, while Hurricane Michael was the first category 5 on record to impact the Florida Panhandle, leaving 74 dead in October 2018. It was also the first category 5 hurricane to make landfall in the contiguous United States since Andrew in 1992.

Here's the list.

More: What happens if tragedy strikes during an election in Texas?

If all 21 names are used this year, there is a supplemental list of 21 names that will be used after William. Here is that list from the  World Meteorological Organization :

Which hurricanes in Texas now have retired names?

Tied for the costliest hurricane in U.S. history, Harvey is now retired from the list of Atlantic hurricane names and was replaced with Harold. The category 4 hurricane that hit Southeast Texas in October 2017 resulted in 107 fatalities and $125 billion in damages.

Ike, a category 4 hurricane that hit near Galveston and Louisiana, led to the deaths of 195 individuals in 2008. The new name in its place is Isaias.

In our neighboring state of Louisiana, Katrina — the category 5 storm that hit New Orleans in 2005 and killed more than 1,800 — was replaced by Katia.

More: 373 tornadoes hit the US in April — nearly double the average. Here's how many hit Texas

When is the Atlantic hurricane season?

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, although storms have formed as early as January and as late as December.

The  National Hurricane Center  starts issuing its  daily tropical outlook  reports on May 15. If a storm forms before then, a special report is issued for the life of that storm.

Top Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden

Things to do in dalarna county, explore popular experiences, popular cities in dalarna county.

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Outdoor Activities

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Top Attractions in Dalarna County

places to visit in dalarna county

What travellers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

Top Things to Do in Dalarna County

Things to do in dalarna county, explore popular experiences, popular cities in dalarna county.

places to visit in dalarna county

Outdoor Activities

places to visit in dalarna county

Top Attractions in Dalarna County

places to visit in dalarna county

What travellers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

Wands and wizardry: Three Bucks County shops to visit on International Harry Potter Day

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It’s time to break out your sorting hat because May 2 is International Harry Potter Day.

No matter which Hogwarts house you belong to, the holiday gives Harry Potter fans a fun excuse to celebrate the work of author J.K. Rowling and all the wizarding adventures and magical worlds she creates inside her seven-novel series.

In your search for all things Harry Potter, here are three places in Bucks County to help bring you closer to the magic:

The Cloak and Wand, Lahaska

Located in Peddler’s Village, The Cloak and Wand is a fantasy shop which allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of wizards, witches and mythical creatures. Harry Potter merchandise is just some of what you’ll find as you wander around the store past its wall of moving portraits, through dragon- and mermaid-themed sections and into a hand-carved wand room. For an added treat, the potions bar offers custom sodas and hot chocolates in 64 magical flavors.

Go: 100 Peddlers Village, Lahaska; 267-544-5187; thecloakandwand.com

More: The Cloak and Wand — a favorite of Harry Potter fans — opens in Peddler's Village

Commonplace Reader, Yardley

A bookshop inside an old Victorian home is bound to hold some hidden treasures, including a Harry Potter nook perfect for your little one to curl up with an illustrated version of their favorite Rowling title, giving you a moment to add to your own collection with a copy of “The Official Harry Potter Cookbook” or a pair of Harry Potter socks.

Go: 49 S. Main St., Yardley; 215-420-2620; commonplace-reader.com

Feeney’s, Feasterville

Create a miniature Harry Potter village inside your home. Feeney’s sells Department 56 collectible light-up buildings and figurines specific to this wizarding world, including Hogwarts Castle, Eeylops Owl Emporium and Lord Voldemort.

Go: 1134 Bustleton Pike, Feasterville; 215-322-4300; feeneys.com

More to explore: Vampire killing kits, haunted dolls, and a door you shouldn't open in Bucks County

More ways to celebrate Harry Potter in Bucks County

Need to complete your set of Harry Potter books or share your love of the series with a friend? Then check out one of these 10 independent bookshops in Bucks County .

Find the perfect setting to let your kids' Harry Potter-inspired imaginations run wild by exploring one of these five castles in Bucks County, plus one in nearby Bryn Athyn .

Reporter Michele Haddon covers local news, small business, economic development, community revitalization, art and culture for The Intelligencer and Bucks County Courier Times at PhillyBurbs.com. Please considering supporting local journalism with a subscription.

Top Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden - Dalarna County Must-See Attractions

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Outdoor Activities

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Top Attractions in Dalarna County

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What travellers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

Iowa town Minden has been hit twice by major tornadoes. Is it a magnet for the storms?

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The storm Friday that struck the tiny southwest Iowa town of Minden, destroying dozens of structures and fatally injuring one resident, wasn’t the community’s first experience with a devastating tornado.

An EF4 tornado, even stronger than Friday's EF3, hit the town on June 26, 1976, causing $13.7 million in property damage, as measured in today’s dollars. There were no deaths, despite close calls for dozens of residents who had been attending a carnival when the twister touched down, sending them fleeing for shelter to buildings that failed to withstand the winds.

It's far from the only U.S. city to have had more than one brush with a devastating tornado. The best known is probably Moore, Oklahoma, an Oklahoma City suburb. In the 122 years from 1893 to 2015, it was hit 26 times by tornadoes that included two top-of-the-scale EF5 storms. One in 1999 killed 36 people and injured nearly 600 and another in 2013 killed 24 and injured more than 200.

Iowa also has examples, including a metro Des Moines city hit during Friday's storms. Pleasant Hill, where an EF2 tornado damaged a number of houses, also suffered tornado strikes in 1974, 1982 and 2022.

MAP: See every tornado in Iowa since 1950

What determines where a tornado touches down?

Could it be that some places in the traditional Midwestern Tornado Alley are natural tornado magnets?

There has been speculation over the years citing factors like topography and temperatures. And of course there are explanations with religious roots, both biblical and in Native American lore.

But according to William Gallus, a professor of meteorology at Iowa State University who is a nationally recognized expert on tornadoes, the best science can conclude is that it really just comes down to coincidence.

“The scientific view on that is there's really no geography big enough, significant enough in much of the central U.S., including Iowa, to influence tornadoes,” Gallus said.

That leaves random chance. It you were to blindfold a person, spin them around until they're dizzy and then have them make a mark on a map with a pen, then do it again and again and again, for years on end, “What you are going to see is just from the randomness ... there will be places that might get hit two or three times in ... 50 years and many areas that won’t get hit at all," Gallus said. "We do not believe there’s anything that can explain it.”

“It’s just kind of bad luck that Minden has been hit twice,” he added.

Are some places just safer than others?

On the other side of the equation, is it possible, as some people hold, that some areas can be immune from tornadoes because they're in a valley or near a river?

Gallus pointed out that tornadoes form out of thunderstorms, which can happen anywhere.

“A thunderstorm cloud is maybe 10 miles tall and 10 miles or more across, so it’s a very big thing, and I say a tornado laughs at your valley or river theory,” he said.

Gallus said tornadoes have been documented to cross the Continental Divide, go up or down mountainsides and ford rivers. Tornadoes also can develop in a very short time, as he experienced Friday night while he and colleagues were storm chasing in the Des Moines area.

“We’re basically approaching the west Mixmaster and I looked at the radar and told the driver everything looked good; there’s no (tornado) warning," he said. "Then suddenly, I swear a minute later, we can hear the sirens going off in West Des Moines, and I look at the radar and in one minute, there is now a very strong circulation on the radar.”

Is change the only constant in where, when tornadoes strike?

There are thunderstorm-prone parts of the country where tornadoes are more common, including the swath extending from Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Indiana, Missouri, Iowa and Illinois to Ohio. But even those are subject to change as the climate trends warmer, including when tornadoes occur, with signs that the zone of greater storm frequency is shifting south and east, Gallus said.

Despite that, Iowa continues to be very much a part of that territory. And with the climate warming, Gallus said, there is a potential Iowa won't continue to get the reprieve from thunderstorms and tornadoes it usually has during the winter.

“It might be now that most of September ends up being a very dry, rather warm period of the year but now October and November, even into December, might be when we see these warm spells that end with some severe weather and tornadoes,” he said.

On the other end, a changing climate may end up making June hotter and drier, like weather traditionally experienced in July, meaning the severe weather season may wind down in May rather than late June, Gallus said.

Which Iowa counties see the most tornadoes?

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, here are the 10 Iowa counties with the most tornado activity over the past 25 years:

  • 10 ― Dallas County. Tornadoes since 2000: 26 (4.42 per 100 square miles). National rank: 168.
  • 9 ― Howard County. Tornadoes since 2000: 21 (4.44 per 100 square miles). National rank: 166.
  • 8 ― Boone County. Tornadoes since 2000: 26 (4.55 per 100 square miles). National rank: 150.
  • 7 ― Grundy County. Tornadoes since 2000: 23 (4.58 per 100 square miles). National rank: 142.
  • 6 ― Scott County. Tornadoes since 2000: 21 (4.58 per 100 square miles). National rank: 140.
  • 5 ― Hardin County. Tornadoes since 2000: 30 (5.27 per 100 square miles). National rank: 89.
  • 4 ― Marion County. Tornadoes since 2000: 30 (5.41 per 100 square miles). National rank: 79.
  • 3 ― Hamilton County. Tornadoes since 2000: 32 (5.55 per 100 square miles). National rank: 77.
  • 2 ― Buchanan County. Tornadoes since 2000: 32 (5.6 per 100 square miles). National rank: 70.
  • 1 ― Webster County. Tornadoes since 2000: 41 (5.73 per 100 square miles). National rank: 64.

Kevin Baskins covers job and the economy for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at [email protected] .

Top Things to Do in Dalarna County

Things to do in dalarna county, explore popular experiences, popular cities in dalarna county.

places to visit in dalarna county

Outdoor Activities

places to visit in dalarna county

Top Attractions in Dalarna County

places to visit in dalarna county

What travellers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

Top Things to Do in Dalarna County

Things to do in dalarna county, explore popular experiences, popular cities in dalarna county.

places to visit in dalarna county

Outdoor Activities

places to visit in dalarna county

Top Attractions in Dalarna County

places to visit in dalarna county

What travelers are saying

BRAYDEN M

  • Romme Alpin
  • Skistar Sälen
  • Fulufjällets National Park
  • Njupeskar waterfall
  • Orsa Grönklitt
  • Styggforsen
  • Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan
  • Långbryggan

IMAGES

  1. Visit Dalarna County: 2022 Travel Guide for Dalarna County, Sweden

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  2. Exploring the Beauty of Dalarna: Falun & Lake Siljan

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  3. What to Do and See in the South of Dalarna: Falun & Lake Siljan

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  4. Visit Dalarna County: 2023 Travel Guide for Dalarna County, Sweden

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  5. Ultimate guide of things to do in Dalarna, Sweden

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  6. Best Places to Visit in Dalarna County

    places to visit in dalarna county

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  1. December 2023 in Dalarna Sweden. 🙏❤️🌟 Happy New Year! 🎉

  2. Hiking and cycling in Leksand, Rättvik, Mora and Orsa in Swedish Dalarna

  3. Sommarvyer i Dalarna

  4. Summer views in Dalarna

  5. Welcome to Fryksås

  6. Sociala risker i Dalarnas län

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  1. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

    Romme Alpin is a ski resort, only 2,5 hours from Stockholm city. We have 33 runs and 13 lifts. Our pistenbullies prepare ur runs to perfection every night. Our Ski Lodge is a ski in- ski out hotel with 169 rooms, restaurant, relax area, sauna and gym. For all the kids we have several playrooms.

  2. 30 BEST Places to Visit in Dalarna County (UPDATED 2024)

    1. Falu Gruva. 596. Mines. A part of the world heritage Falun, Falu Gruva is open for the public offering guided tours under ground, above ground, an interactive museum, shops, cafées and restaurants. See full details. 2023. 2. Adventuremine Äventyrsgruvan.

  3. Visit Dalarna

    Welcome to Dalarna. Traveling in Dalarna is like experiencing Sweden in a miniature. The mountains and the Sami culture, the lakes, the red cottages, the craft tradition and the exciting industrial history. Everything gathered up close. We help you find and book accommodation, activities and events, and hope to inspire you to discover Dalarna.

  4. Visit Dalarna

    Dalarna County, nestled in middle Sweden, leaves little to be desired. It's filled with natural beauty in the shape of hiking-friendly forests, mighty lakes, mountains and flower meadows - which the winters transform into terrain great for skiing and skating. With its all-encompassing landscapes, it's easy to see why Dalarna has been ...

  5. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

    These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time. 1. Falu Gruva. 594. Mines. By 180karinb. The whole site is well laid out, with information boards and ways to get the most out of your visit. 2023. 2.

  6. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

    Top Attractions in Dalarna County. See all. 2022. 1. Zorngården. 202. History Museums. By Lardo414. So many tourist and museum guides have failed to deliver, but the guide we where lucky to have in Zorngården was...

  7. Destinations in Dalarna

    Älvdalen. Visit Dalarna's customer service guides you to Dalarna's favourite spots, and help you find accommodation, events and activities. If you are on site in Dalarna, there are around 80 infopoints with trained staff where you can get local tips and guidance. Find infopoint.

  8. Sights in Dalarna

    Dalarna is a place with a long history which has largely been preserved and which can now be visited. If you are interested in Dalarna's history, there are pastures, cultural environments, theme parks and museums. If the power of nature is what attracts you you can visit nature reserves and national parks, mining landscapes and plenty of easily ...

  9. Best Places to Visit in Dalarna County

    Best Time To Visit Dalarna County. The best time to visit Dalarna County, Sweden is during the summer months of June, July, and August.This is when the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius.The days are long and sunshine is abundant, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities that Dalarna County has ...

  10. Must-see attractions Dalarna, Central Sweden

    Lake Siljan. This local museum complex houses the Rättviks bibliotek (library), art exhibitions and a display describing the Siljan meteor impact. The helpful staff go…. Discover the best attractions in Dalarna including Falu Gruva, Carl Larsson-gården, and Munthe's Hildasholm.

  11. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

    Top Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden: See Tripadvisor's 36,321 traveller reviews and photos of 320 things to do when in Dalarna County.

  12. Ultimate guide of things to do in Dalarna, Sweden

    Visit the Falun Mine Museum. The great Falun Mine is now a World Heritage site and museum that highlights the powerful industrial history of Dalarna. Once the biggest copper mine in Europe, mining in this region goes back 1,000 years. 70% of the worlds' copper was once produced here.

  13. Travel guide to Dalarna

    A Fäbod is like a small chalet or a small farm. Fäbodar is very special in Dalarna and there are several different ones that you can visit during the summer. Karl-Tövåsens Fäbod is the longest-running chalet in the country and to this day, they do almost everything at the farm as they did during the old days.

  14. THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Falun (UPDATED 2024)

    Places to Visit in Falun. 1. Falu Gruva. 2. Dalarnas Museum. We saw an interesting exhibition of Selma Lagerlöf's Falun years and her library. Free entrance. 3. Lugnet.

  15. THE 10 BEST Places to Visit in Mora (UPDATED 2024)

    Dalarna County. Mora. Places to visit in Mora. Top Things to Do in Mora, Sweden. Places to Visit in Mora. Enter dates. Attractions. Filters. Sort. Map. Category types. Attractions. Tours. ... Zorn's Gammelgård was a very interesting place to visit. It has a lot of furnished traditional Swedish cabins, including one from 1237, apparently the ...

  16. What's required for restaurant inspections: 10 things to know

    If you see abuses of state standards, report them and the Department of Business and Professional Regulation will send inspectors. Call the Florida DBPR at 850-487-1395 or report a restaurant for ...

  17. Interactive cicadas map 2024: States where Broods XIX, XIII emerge

    2024 double cicada broods: Check out where Broods XIII, XIX will emerge. The two cicada broods will emerge in a combined 17 states across the Southeast and Midwest, with an overlap in parts of ...

  18. Summer in Dalarna

    Experience summer in Dalarna. Imagine a place where you can run barefoot through the grass and dive into inviting lakes. Enjoy bright summer nights and quiet mornings, rolling mountains, deep forests, untouched meadows and charming villages with red wooden houses. Emerge yourself in the most Swedish of traditions - dance around the midsummer ...

  19. Trump plans visit to Waukesha, Wisconsin for rally

    The presumptive Republican nominee will speak at the Waukesha County Expo Center on Wednesday, May 1, at 2 p.m. local time. This return visit marks his second to the state a month after he held a ...

  20. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

    Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden: See Tripadvisor's 36 005 traveller reviews and photos of 315 Dalarna County attractions.

  21. 2024 hurricane season is upon us. See the list of Atlantic storm names

    See storm strikes by county since 1900. Here is the list of names for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. The names are given out in alphabetical order, and they alternate between names ...

  22. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

    Top Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden: See Tripadvisor's 36,041 traveller reviews and photos of 315 things to do when in Dalarna County.

  23. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County (Updated 2024)

    Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden: See Tripadvisor's 36,210 traveller reviews and photos of Dalarna County attractions.

  24. Places in Bucks County with some magical finds for Harry Potter Day

    In your search for all things Harry Potter, here are three places in Bucks County to help bring you closer to the magic: The Cloak and Wand, Lahaska. Located in Peddler's Village, The Cloak and Wand is a fantasy shop which allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of wizards, witches and mythical creatures.

  25. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

    Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden: See Tripadvisor's 36,274 traveller reviews and photos of Dalarna County tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in April. We have reviews of the best places to see in Dalarna County. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  26. Are places like twice-hit Iowa town Minden tornado magnets?

    There are theories about why places like southwest Iowa town Minden get hit more frequently by tornadoes. ... might be when we see these warm spells that end with some severe weather and tornadoes ...

  27. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dalarna County

    Top Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden: See Tripadvisor's 36,261 traveller reviews and photos of 320 things to do when in Dalarna County.

  28. Top Things to Do in Dalarna County

    Things to Do in Dalarna County, Sweden: See Tripadvisor's 36,205 reviews & photos of 320 Dalarna County attractions.