Four reasons to try spring skiing in Sweden

Swedish skiers regularly take to the slopes to experience the best of both worlds, enjoying the final months of crisp white snow while welcoming in the springtime sun.

Whether you’re looking for a post-winter getaway with friends or an unforgettable family adventure, Stöten, a picturesque resort in Dalarna’s Sälen mountain range with sprawling views of the surrounding Swedish and Norwegian mountain ranges, has a range of exciting experiences for downhill and cross-country skiers of all ages.

While the word ‘skiing’ commonly conjures up images of an icy midwinter activity, The Local fills you in on four reasons why you should try spring skiing in Sweden.

Plan your springtime ski trip at Stöten

1. Soak up the sunshine

Every skier has experienced the midwinter frustration of waiting impatiently for the sun to appear.

In spring, you’ll be hitting the slopes at the crack of dawn and making the most of those extended daylight hours. Not only will you enjoy an earlier start time, you can soak up those rays for hours before the sun sets in the late afternoon sky.

Stöten caters for the early risers with morning skiing from 07.30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The night owls can witness the sun disappearing into the horizon before making their descent between 19.30-21.00 on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

2. Ditch the crowds

If you’re a winter skiing regular, you’ve probably become accustomed to queuing for lifts, bars, restaurants, cafes, etc.

One of the biggest benefits of waiting until the end of the skiing season to plan your getaway is the lack of crowds. The shorter lift times will free up more time for the reason you’re there in the first place, allowing you extra hours to carve up those icy peaks.

3. Refuel your engine or wind down at the afterski

After working up a sweat on those sunny slopes all morning, you’ll be ready to refuel. Instead of disappearing inside again, why not enjoy the charms of one of the outdoor eateries? Stöten has you covered with a range of options.

For those of you wanting to take off your skis and rest your legs, the Brasserie is the perfect place for you. It’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers both buffet and á la carte selections. Head out onto the terrace to soak up that much-needed vitamin D between 15.00-17.00 with some sweet tunes from Stöten’s hottest DJs.

Perhaps you’re looking for a quick pit stop before hitting the snow again? Stöten’s newest eatery, Älvans Restaurant & Café, offers a ski-in/ski-out location for those of you on the run.

Wander in out of the snow and pick up some hot, freshly made waffles with jam and cream. Afterall, a Swedish ski holiday isn’t complete without a winter-warming afternoon fika from Våffelstugan.

Plan your springtime ski trip at Stöten

4. Just starting out?

New to the world of skiing and looking to improve your technique in a calm atmosphere with softer, more forgiving snow? Springtime skiing offers a sorbet-like snow, perfect for beginners and children alike.

Don’t be fooled by the chilled-out vibe and the lack of crowds.

Springtime is buzzing with activities for the whole family. Stöten offers swimming, sauna, snow safaris, dog-sledding, bowling and much more. The kids can hang out in the Wolf Club while parents wind down at the spa or the gym.

Easter holidays are jam-packed with events to keep the kids busy, with Good Friday face painting and Easter arts and crafts. After taking part in the indoor activities, it’s time for the kids to take to the snow again. They can race solo in the Wolf Club Trophy or compete as a family in the Blåkulla Trophy.

Whatever your age or skill level, you can expect an unforgettable skiing experience this season at Stöten.