Where adventure, history and skiing meet at a world-class level.
Åre is more than a ski resort – it's Sweden's alpine icon. A community built around the mountains, where skiing and culture live side by side. Here international atmosphere meets northern Swedish tradition, creating a unique blend of energy and relaxation. It's a destination that works just as well for families as for adventurers and bons vivants.
Over the years, Åre has grown into the Nordic region's most complete winter resort. From the first lift of the morning to the evening light over Lake Åresjön, you'll find everything that defines a true mountain holiday here – and more.
The skiing
Åre's ski system is large, varied and known for its character. With over 90 runs, several mountains and a lift system that connects the whole valley, you'll find everything from wide family slopes to challenging runs with World Cup history.
The classic Åreskutan area offers skiing with a view over the lake and the mountains beyond. Duved and Tegefjäll attract visitors with a calmer atmosphere, shorter lift queues and long, scenic runs. The whole area is linked together by modern lifts and well-planned trails that make it easy to get around.
Åre is a place where both beginners and pros find their footing – you just pick your pace and terrain.
Village and atmosphere
The village of Åre itself is something quite special. Here you'll find shops, restaurants, bars and cafés in a setting that feels both international and genuinely Swedish. It's a lively place year-round, but in winter the village transforms into a buzzing hub of skiing, music and experiences.
Even though Åre is big, it feels personal. You can start the day in stillness on the mountain, ski all the way down to the square, and finish with dinner at one of Sweden's most celebrated mountain restaurants – all in the same place.
Accommodation
Åre offers a wide range of accommodation.
From classic hotels and modern mountain cabins to exclusive apartments and spa resorts.
Most people stay close to the slopes or within walking distance of a lift, making it easy to leave the car parked for the whole stay.
Stay central: Parkvillan is perfect, walking distance to everything.
For those seeking seclusion, there are options in Duved or Björnen – areas that combine calm, closeness to nature and good access to lifts. You can also find accommodation on Airbnb, often at a good price, for those last-minute trips.
Activities beyond skiing
Åre is a resort that always has something to offer – even for those not on skis every day. Here you'll find ice climbing, dog sledding, snowshoeing, spas, restaurant visits and one of Sweden's best selections of après-ski and nightlife. For children, activities await all year round, and for anyone seeking silence, untouched mountains are just minutes away.
Åre is just as much about the experience as the skiing – and that's what makes the place so special. In our food and entertainment guide for Åre you'll find everything you're looking for off the slopes, but also in the restaurants on the slopes.
Tips!
- Nature experience: Visit Ristafallet – a must for anyone who loves Swedish nature and film history.
- Food: Broken Åre – great food in a relaxed setting.
- Spa & swimming: Holiday Club Åre – especially fun for younger children.
Getting here
Åre is easy to reach, no matter where you're travelling from. The train station is right in the village, with several daily departures connecting the resort to Stockholm, Gothenburg and Sundsvall. Östersund Airport is about an hour away, with buses running directly to the resort. You can also book a transfer with various taxi companies. For those driving, the E14 is the road into the mountains, with good accessibility year-round.
Who Åre suits
Åre suits those who want it all – big mountains, varied skiing, life, nature and the feeling of being in the middle of something bigger. It's a place for families who want comfort, for groups of friends seeking energy, and for skiers who want to improve. Åre isn't just a destination, it's an experience with soul and history.
Ski school in Åre – levels, structure and what to consider
Taking ski lessons in Åre is one of the most effective ways for both children and adults to improve quickly on the slopes. SkiStar Åre offers a wide range of courses – from complete beginners (3–5 years) to advanced youth groups and adult courses focused on technique, speed control and carving. The earlier you book, the greater the chance of getting the time and level you want, especially during Christmas, winter break and Easter.
For children, at least three consecutive days is often recommended to give them enough confidence within the group. Åre has several meeting points and children's areas, making it easy to choose a ski school close to your chosen accommodation area.
The ski school is booked directly through SkiStar Åre.
Tips before you book:
- Book as early as possible to secure a spot in the right group.
- Choose a course based on the child's actual level, not the desired level. This leads to better progress.
- Check the weather and slope openings – some groups are moved depending on wind.
- If you're travelling with younger children: choose accommodation close to the children's area to minimise transport.
Renting skis in Åre – comparison, tips and key details
Åre has a large selection of ski rental shops, from chains to local specialists. This makes it easy to find equipment suited to both beginners and experienced skiers. The advantage of Åre is that many rental shops are located right by the lifts, which makes it easier if equipment needs to be swapped or adjusted during the week.
The most established rental shops include:
- SkiStar Skidhyra Åre
- Stadium Rental Åre
- Åre Skiduthyrning
- Åre Kids Sport
- Åre Sportshop
- Skidcenter Åre
- Fjällsport Åre
Tips before you rent:
- Booking in advance often gives better prices and faster pickup.
- If you're staying far from the lifts, choose a rental shop near the ski bus.
- Children in ski school may need shorter poles or softer boots – ask for adjustments right away.
- Always choose a helmet for children, and ideally for adults too. It's standard in Åre.
Lift passes in Åre – prices, systems and key rules
Åre is Sweden's largest ski area and requires a lift pass covering the whole SkiStar Åre system. This includes Åre By, Duved and Björnen, giving access to everything from long carving runs to large children's areas.
You buy lift passes via SkiStar Åre – Ski Pass.
Children under 7 ski for free
Just like in the rest of the SkiStar system, children up to 6 years old ski for free, as long as they wear a helmet. From age 7, a children's pass is required.
Family pass – a smart solution for families with young children
Åre also offers a family pass where two parents can share the same lift pass, with one skiing at a time. This is perfect for families where one adult needs to be in the children's area or back at the accommodation for part of the day.
Tips before buying your lift pass:
- Peak season: always buy online to avoid queues on arrival.
- Wind sometimes affects Åre's summit. Keep an eye on which lifts are open before you start the day.
Our best tips for a successful Åre holiday
- Stay central: Parkvillan is perfect for families with children, within walking distance of everything.
- Spa & swimming: Holiday Club Åre – especially fun for younger children.
- Food: Broken Åre – good food in a relaxed setting, but avoid the hottest sun.
- Experience more: Don't miss guide to food & entertainment in Åre.
- Nature experience: Visit Ristafallet – a must for anyone who loves Swedish nature and film history.
- Book online: Book your lift pass, accommodation and ski rental online for the cheapest prices.
- Be early!: Accommodation and slots, e.g. in ski school, run out fast, so book in time.
Top tip!
- The Food & Entertainment Guide for Åre : All of Åre's food and nightlife gathered in one guide.
Explore more Swedish ski guides
The mountains in Sweden offer completely different experiences. Want a smaller, calmer and more intimate setting – move on to the next destination in our guide.
Next ski resort: Hovfjället
More information
For piste maps, lift passes, weather and events:
Åre's official website
