Top 11 Lakes around Malung-Sälen

Several lakes in Malung-Sälen are ideal for families. Östfjällsstugan is located on a small lake with easy access to the fells. Stensjön, with its stone cairns, offers a relaxing spot to cool off. Other excellent options include Bullsjön near Malungs Camping, Öje lake with its sandy beach and water slides, Gorrtjärn which is child-friendly with a sand bottom and barbecue area, and Nissången known for its shallow waters. Nornäs also features a child-friendly beach with a playground and camping facilities.

The lakes in Malung-Sälen are a gateway to various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the moderate Östfjällsrundan Trail or the more challenging Hemfjället Summit loop, which often pass by or lead to lakes. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes like the Södra Kungsleden Trailhead loop. Many lakes also offer opportunities for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. You can explore more routes on the hiking guide or road cycling guide for Malung-Sälen.

Yes, Malung-Sälen is a renowned fishing destination. The Västerdalälven River, which flows through the region, is popular for fly and spin fishing, known for grayling, brown trout, pike, and whitefish. For wild brown trout, Mörtsjön is an excellent forest lake. Öjesjön is a prime location for northern pike and perch. Many areas also offer 'put and take' waters stocked with rainbow trout and char.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June-August) is ideal for swimming, hiking, and enjoying the warmer waters. Lakes like Lindvallstjärn warm up quickly, making them pleasant for summer dips. Winter offers unique experiences, with Öjesjön transforming into the Öje Winter Arena for ice skating, and the Vasaloppet route near Smågan becoming very active for cross-country skiing.

The region boasts diverse natural beauty. You'll find clear mountain lakes, serene forest waters, and larger, shallow lakes. The landscape includes mountains, forests, rivers, and marshes. Many lakes, like Sälen Botanical, are surrounded by trails offering views and opportunities to observe wildlife. Mountain lakes like Stensjön are known for their clear, cool waters and smooth rocks.

Yes, there are several. Östfjällsstugan is a well-kept hut located on a small lake, offering camping spots nearby. The first checkpoint at Smågan also has a hut where you can spend the night. Additionally, the Lakeside Wooden Shelter provides a convenient rest area directly by a lake.

For refreshing swims, you have many options. Bullsjön, Hustjärn, and Öje lake are popular with dedicated swimming areas and sandy beaches. Gorrtjärn offers a child-friendly bathing area with a sand bottom. For a mountain lake experience, Stensjön is easily accessible and sheltered from the wind. Lindvallstjärn is one of the most accessible swimming spots in Sälen, and Myckeln and Rörsjön provide pristine mountain water for a dip during hikes.

Yes, one notable man-made feature is the Stone cairns at Stensjön. This large water pool features distinctive man-made rock formations, making it an interesting stop to relax and cool off.

Some lakes offer various amenities. Öje lake has Öje Camping nearby with green spaces, a jetty, and water slides. Nornäs provides camping facilities, including electrical hook-ups, a service building with laundry and kitchen, and a café, along with a child-friendly beach. Malungs Camping is conveniently located near Bullsjön. Gorrtjärn also features a barbecue area and changing room.

Absolutely. Many running trails in the area offer scenic views of the lakes. For example, the Hemfjället Summit – Stone cairns at Stensjön loop from Lindvallen is a challenging option. There's also the Östfjällsstugan – Stone cairns at Stensjön loop, and the Tandådalstjärnarna loop from Tandådalen. You can find more running routes on the running trails guide for Malung-Sälen.

Visitors appreciate the diverse environments, from clear mountain lakes to serene forest waters, which provide excellent settings for various activities. The well-kept huts like Östfjällsstugan are popular for their beautiful locations. Many enjoy the easy access to nature and the opportunity to relax and cool off in the water, especially at spots like Stensjön.