This Funäsdalen travel guide covers everything you need to plan a rewarding visit to one of Sweden’s most scenic mountain destinations. From winter skiing and cross country trails to summer hiking, local food and practical transport advice, Funäsdalen offers a peaceful base for exploring the highlands of Härjedalen.
Why visit Funäsdalen?
Funäsdalen is a mountain village in western Härjedalen, close to the Norwegian border. It is the central hub of the wider Funäsfjällen area, a group of mountain communities and outdoor resorts surrounded by open plateaus, birch forests, lakes and rounded peaks. The landscape feels spacious and remote, yet the village has useful services, accommodation, restaurants and shops.
The area appeals to visitors who want an active holiday without staying in a large, crowded resort. In winter, Funäsdalen is known for alpine skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobile excursions. During the warmer months, the same mountains become a destination for hiking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and wildlife watching.
Funäsdalen also has a strong local identity. The region is home to a long Sámi history, traditional mountain farming culture and communities that continue to live and work in the landscape. A good visit combines outdoor activities with time in the villages, local museums, cafés and small food producers.
Where is Funäsdalen?
Funäsdalen lies in western Sweden, in the municipality of Härjedalen and the county of Jämtland. It is positioned between several smaller mountain settlements, including Tänndalen, Bruksvallarna, Ramundberget, Fjällnäs and Tännäs. Together, these places form Funäsfjällen, one of Sweden’s best known mountain areas for year round outdoor recreation.
The village sits near Lake Funäsdalssjön and is surrounded by mountains that are generally accessible rather than sharply alpine. Many viewpoints can be reached without technical climbing, although weather and terrain should always be taken seriously. The Norwegian town of Røros is also within reach by road, making it possible to combine a Funäsdalen trip with a visit to the historic mining town.
Best time for visiting Funäsdalen
Winter in Funäsdalen
Winter is the busiest season and usually runs from around December until April, depending on snow conditions. January and February bring short days, cold temperatures and excellent opportunities for skiing under a low winter sun. March and April often provide brighter weather and longer daylight, making spring a particularly pleasant time for outdoor activities.
Snow conditions vary from year to year, so check current information before booking. The higher mountain areas generally retain snow longer than the villages. Some winter services and activities operate seasonally, especially outside the main holiday periods.
Summer and early autumn
Summer is a good choice for hiking, cycling and fishing. June can still feel cool in the mountains, while July and August usually offer the most reliable access to trails and open facilities. September brings crisp air, quieter paths and early autumn colours. Mountain weather can change quickly in every season, so pack warm and waterproof layers even when the forecast looks mild.
Shoulder seasons
Late spring and late autumn can be peaceful, but they are also periods when some accommodation, lifts, restaurants and transport services have limited opening hours. Trails may be wet or muddy, and winter routes may not yet be prepared. If you travel during these months, confirm opening times and trail conditions directly with local providers.
Things to do in Funäsdalen in winter
Alpine skiing
The Funäsfjällen ski area includes several separate ski centres, each with its own character. Funäsdalsberget is the main downhill skiing area close to Funäsdalen village. Tänndalen is known for varied pistes and a broad mountain setting, while Ramundberget offers a quieter resort atmosphere and access to scenic terrain. A shared regional lift pass may cover several facilities, but the exact terms depend on the season.
Beginners can find ski schools and gentle slopes, while stronger skiers have access to steeper pistes and off piste opportunities when conditions are safe. Do not leave marked areas without understanding avalanche risks and local recommendations. Mountain rescue information and current conditions should be checked before heading into unfamiliar terrain.
Cross country skiing
Cross country skiing is one of the main reasons people return to Funäsdalen. Funäsfjällen has an extensive network of prepared tracks connecting valleys, villages and mountain huts. Routes range from short, easy loops near accommodation to longer tours across exposed plateaus.
Bruksvallarna is especially well known among cross country skiers and has hosted high level training and competitions. You can choose between classic and skate tracks in many locations. Weather, wind and daylight affect the difficulty considerably, so start with a shorter route if you are unfamiliar with the area. Waxing advice, equipment rental and trail updates are available from local ski shops and information centres.
Snowshoeing and winter walking
Snowshoeing is a useful way to explore quiet forests and lower mountain areas without needing advanced skiing skills. Guided trips can add information about animal tracks, local ecology and winter safety. Some hiking trails become winter walking routes, but summer paths are not always suitable or marked in the same way once covered by snow.
Snowmobiling and dog sledding
Organised snowmobile tours and dog sledding excursions are available from local operators. These activities provide access to wider mountain landscapes and can be suitable for visitors who want a memorable experience without spending a full day skiing. Use authorised routes and follow local restrictions, since reindeer herding, wildlife protection and safety considerations affect where vehicles may travel.
Summer activities in Funäsdalen
Hiking
Hiking is central to Funäsdalen tourism during the green season. Trails pass through birch woodland, open fell, wetlands and areas with wide views across the mountain plateau. You can choose short walks near the village or plan longer day hikes between mountain huts and settlements.
Popular outings include routes around Funäsdalssjön, walks in the Tänndalen and Bruksvallarna areas, and hikes towards higher viewpoints near the ski resorts. The precise route difficulty depends on weather, distance, elevation and surface conditions. Some paths are rocky, boggy or exposed, so sturdy footwear is more practical than ordinary trainers.
Before setting out, download or carry a reliable map and check whether bridges, lifts and mountain huts are open. Mobile coverage can be limited in remote valleys. Tell someone about your route if you are travelling alone, and carry water, food, a first aid kit, extra clothing and a charged phone.
Cycling and mountain biking
Road cyclists can enjoy quiet roads between the villages, although hills and changing weather make the routes more demanding than they may appear on a map. Mountain bikers can use designated trails and lift assisted routes where available. Ask a local bike shop or activity centre about current trail conditions, equipment rental and areas where cycling is permitted.
Respect hikers, livestock and private land. Wet ground can be vulnerable to damage, particularly early in the season. Stay on signed trails and avoid riding across soft peatland or newly restored paths.
Fishing, canoeing and swimming
Lakes and rivers around Funäsdalen offer opportunities for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. Fishing normally requires a local permit, and rules vary between waters. Ask about species, seasonal restrictions, minimum sizes and permitted equipment before casting a line.
Mountain lakes can remain cold even during warm weather. If you swim or paddle, use appropriate safety equipment and be cautious when wind conditions change. Calm water in the morning can become choppy later in the day.
Wildlife watching
Reindeer, moose, foxes, birds of prey and smaller mountain animals live in the surrounding landscape. Seeing wildlife is never guaranteed, but early mornings and quiet evenings are often the best times to look. Keep a respectful distance, especially from reindeer and nesting birds, and never feed wild animals.
Culture and local places to explore
Outdoor activities are only part of the experience. The area has deep connections to Sámi culture and reindeer herding. In nearby Mittådalen, visitors may find opportunities to learn more about Sámi traditions through local businesses, cultural experiences and seasonal events. Availability varies, so book ahead where required and approach cultural visits with respect.
Funäsdalen’s mountain museum, Härjedalens Fjällmuseum, provides context about local history, Sámi life and the development of mountain communities. It is a useful stop on a rainy day and can help you understand the landscape you see on the trails.
Bruksvallarna, Tänndalen, Ramundberget and Fjällnäs each have their own atmosphere. Driving between them is a good way to see more of the region, but distances and opening hours can make a car useful. Small cafés, farm shops and local producers are often seasonal, so check schedules rather than relying on spontaneous stops.
Food and drink in Funäsdalen
Regional menus often reflect the mountain environment. Look for dishes featuring game, fish, potatoes, berries, mushrooms and locally produced dairy. Reindeer and elk may appear on restaurant menus, while vegetarian dishes are increasingly common. Cloudberries and other Nordic berries are used in desserts, sauces and drinks.
Funäsdalen village has restaurants, cafés and grocery shops, but the selection can be more limited outside peak periods. If you are staying in a cabin, self catering is convenient, especially for families or visitors planning full days outdoors. Stock up when you arrive if you are travelling onward to a smaller settlement.
Swedish alcohol sales are regulated, and stronger alcoholic drinks are generally purchased through Systembolaget. Check opening hours in advance, particularly around weekends and public holidays.
Where to stay in Funäsdalen
Accommodation ranges from hotels and guesthouses to apartments, cabins and campsites. Staying in Funäsdalen village is convenient if you want restaurants, shops, ski services and transport nearby. It is also a practical base for visitors who plan to explore several parts of Funäsfjällen.
Ramundberget and Tänndalen suit travellers who want to stay close to ski lifts and mountain trails. Bruksvallarna is a popular choice for cross country skiing and a quieter village setting. Fjällnäs offers a more secluded location near the lake and mountain landscape.
For winter holidays, reserve well ahead, particularly for Christmas, New Year, Swedish school holidays and Easter. Summer accommodation can also fill quickly during July. Confirm whether bed linen, towels, cleaning and breakfast are included, since cabin arrangements vary.
How to get to Funäsdalen
By car
Driving is the most flexible way to reach Funäsdalen and explore the surrounding villages. Roads are generally scenic, but winter driving requires preparation. Snow, ice, wind and limited daylight can make journeys slower than expected. Use winter tyres, allow extra time and check road conditions before leaving.
From Stockholm, the journey is long and normally requires careful planning or an overnight stop. Travellers coming from Gothenburg or southern Sweden should also expect a substantial drive. Routes through central Sweden can vary depending on road conditions and your starting point.
By train and bus
There is no railway station in Funäsdalen. A common approach is to travel by train to Östersund and continue by regional bus or rental car. Bus connections and seasonal ski transfers may be available, but timetables are limited compared with larger Swedish destinations. Check the current route before booking accommodation.
By air
Åre Östersund Airport is one possible entry point, followed by a rental car or onward transfer. Sveg Airport may be useful for some domestic itineraries, although flight schedules are limited. Røros Airport in Norway can be considered by international visitors who combine Funäsdalen with Norway, but transport options across the border should be arranged in advance.
Practical tips for a Funäsdalen trip
- Book at the right time: Winter holidays and summer weekends are popular, so reserve accommodation and activities early.
- Check opening hours: Restaurants, lifts, museums and shops may operate on reduced schedules outside peak season.
- Dress for the mountains: Use layers, waterproof outer clothing, warm socks, gloves and sturdy footwear. Conditions can change quickly.
- Plan for limited services: Carry snacks, water and any essential medicines when travelling beyond the village.
- Download maps: Mobile coverage is not guaranteed in remote areas, and a paper map is a useful backup.
- Respect outdoor access: Sweden’s right of public access allows extensive recreation, but it comes with responsibilities. Avoid damaging vegetation, close gates, take rubbish with you and respect homes and working land.
- Protect reindeer and wildlife: Keep dogs under control where required and give animals plenty of space.
- Check permits: Fishing, snowmobiling and some guided activities require local permits or bookings.
- Prepare for darkness: Winter daylight is limited. Carry a headlamp and finish remote activities well before conditions become difficult.
- Keep emergency information available: The Swedish emergency number is 112. Tell someone your planned route when heading into the mountains.
A sample three day Funäsdalen itinerary
Day one: Explore the village and nearby trails
Start with a walk through Funäsdalen and a visit to Härjedalens Fjällmuseum. Have lunch at a local café or restaurant, then take a short hike or scenic drive around Lake Funäsdalssjön. In winter, use the afternoon for a beginner ski lesson or an easy prepared cross country loop.
Day two: Spend a full day in the mountains
Choose an activity that matches your experience and the weather. Alpine skiers can spend the day at Funäsdalsberget, Tänndalen or Ramundberget. Cross country skiers can select a prepared route near Bruksvallarna. In summer, plan a longer hike or a guided mountain excursion. Bring food and extra clothing rather than relying on facilities along the route.
Day three: Discover the wider region
Drive through the surrounding villages and visit a local producer, cultural attraction or mountain café. A trip towards Mittådalen can provide insight into Sámi culture, while a journey towards Røros is possible for travellers with enough time and the correct border travel arrangements. Finish with a relaxed dinner featuring regional ingredients.
Is Funäsdalen right for your trip?
Funäsdalen is a strong choice for travellers who enjoy nature, small mountain communities and active holidays. It works well for families, cross country skiers, hikers, couples and visitors seeking a quieter alternative to Sweden’s largest ski resorts. The destination rewards planning, particularly if you want to travel without a car or visit outside the main seasons.
Whether you come for snowy tracks, long summer walks, local food or a slower mountain break, Funäsdalen provides a varied base for exploring western Härjedalen. Use current local information for transport, weather, trail conditions and seasonal opening times before you go, then leave room in your itinerary for the landscapes between the planned stops.