Dalarnas

Dalarnas län, commonly referred to as Dalarna, is a county in central Sweden that encompasses the historic province of Dalarna. The county sits in Svealand and is known for its landscape of forests, numerous lakes and the Siljan, a large central lake formed by a meteor impact. The region lies on the ancient Baltic Shield and features rugged hills and waterways that support forestry and outdoor recreation.

The county’s administrative seat is Falun, with other major towns including Borlänge, Mora, Avesta and Ludvika. The economy traditionally rests on forestry and mining, particularly copper in Falun, whose Falun Copper Mine has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In recent decades tourism has grown, with the Sälen ski area—one of Scandinavia’s best-known winter resorts—drawing visitors year-round.

Culturally, Dalarna is known for the Dalecarlian horse (Dalahäst), a traditional carved wooden horse that has become a national symbol, as well as folk music, handicrafts and regional dress. The region is associated with midsummer celebrations and rural traditions that contribute to its distinctive identity.

Population is concentrated in a few urban centers, while large areas remain sparsely populated. The climate is temperate continental, with cold winters and mild summers, influenced by the inland location.