Vasaloppet
The world's oldest, longest, and largest cross-country ski race
In the Footsteps of Forefathers
Every year on the first Sunday of March, over 15,000 skiers line up in Sälen to ski 90 kilometers through the Dalarna wilderness, finishing in the heart of Mora. This is Vasaloppet — a Swedish institution since 1922.
The race commemorates Gustav Vasa's historic ski journey in 1520-1521, when the future king fled from Danish soldiers through these same forests. Today, more than a million skiers have crossed the famous finish line, making Vasaloppet the largest cross-country ski event in the world.
❄️ Winter: Vasaloppet Ski Week (February-March)
The main event is the 90 km classic-style race on the first Sunday in March, but Vasaloppet Week includes multiple races for all skill levels:
- Vasaloppet (90 km) — The legendary main race
- Öppet Spår (90 km) — Non-competitive, complete at your own pace
- Halvvasan (45 km) — Half the distance, same epic finish
- Tjejvasan (30 km) — World's largest women's ski race
- Kortvasan (30 km) — Perfect for beginners
- Nattvasan (90 km) — Ski through the night in freestyle
- Stafettvasan (90 km) — Relay race for teams
This is our busiest time of year! Mora fills with athletes, supporters, and spectators from around the world. Book your stay months in advance.
☀️ Summer: Vasaloppet Sommaren (August)
The Vasaloppet arena transforms in summer for running and cycling events along the same historic route:
- Vasastafetten — Running relay
- Ultravasan (90 km) — Ultramarathon running
- Halvvasan (45 km) — Half-distance run
- Cykelvasan (90 km) — Mountain bike race
- Cykelvasan Öppet Spår — Non-competitive cycling
Summer events offer the same iconic finish line experience with midnight sun and warmer temperatures. The forest trails are beautiful in their summer green.
The Finish Line Experience
Whether you're racing or spectating, the finish line in central Mora is electric. Crowds line the final stretch, cowbells ring, and emotional skiers cross under the famous arch. The tradition of "blåbärssoppa" (bilberry soup) at aid stations and the iconic Kransmas ceremony for winners have remained unchanged for generations.
Stay Near the Finish
Muntergården is located just 10 km from the Mora finish line — perfect for participants and spectators. Wake up to a hearty breakfast, take a short drive to watch the action, and return to our cozy B&B to celebrate (or recover!). We understand the needs of athletes and can accommodate early departures and late returns.
💡 Vasaloppet Tips
- Book accommodation 6-12 months in advance for Vasaloppet week
- The finish area is open to spectators — free entry!
- Dress warmly; March in Dalarna can be -15°C or colder
- Visit the Vasaloppet museum in Mora to learn the history
- Try the blåbärssoppa — it's a tradition!
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Learn more →Racing in Vasaloppet?
Book your stay at Muntergården near the iconic finish line in Mora.