New year, new opportunities! Make 2026 an unforgettable year by trying something new, experiencing all seasons in the mountains, and taking the time to live in the moment. Adventures and experiences await you all year round in Vemdalen – from crisp winter days on the ski slopes to refreshing mountain baths in summer, the colorful tranquility of autumn, and the first warm rays of spring sunshine on your face. Whether you're traveling here for adrenaline-filled activities, atmospheric events, or peaceful mountain enjoyment, there's always something to look forward to. Here are our best tips for your Vemdalen Bucket List 2026.
1. Experience the magic of the farmhouse
Follow in the footsteps of the traveling merchants of yesteryear and experience a tradition that stretches far back into the history of the mountains. The Forbonderesan route runs from Klövsjö through Härjedalen all the way to the historic winter market Rørosmartnan in Norway – just as people did in the 19th century to trade, exchange goods, and meet across borders.
Today, the journey is a living tribute to community, cultural heritage, and the slow pace of the mountains, where horses, sleighs, and stories take their place in the winter landscape. The seven-day journey starts in Klövsjö and ends in Røros. Seeing the horse-drawn carriages pass by on their way to the opening of the Rørosmartnan market is a powerful experience and a must on your Vemdalen Bucket List 2026.
Read more about Forbonderesan here and keep an eye out for dates and programs here.
2. Ride a dog sled through the mountain landscape
Experience the mountains in one of the most atmospheric ways possible – behind an eager dog sled through the silent winter landscape. At The Howling Dog Farm in Vemdalen, you can join experienced guides who share their knowledge about the dogs, the history of dog sledding, and the surrounding nature. The journey takes you through low mountain terrain, across vast wetlands and past old mountain pastures, where bearded lichen-covered trees and gnarled pines bear witness to a landscape shaped by time and weather. With a little luck, you may even spot wild animals along the way. An adventure that combines nature, tranquility, and excitement.
3. Cook food over an open fire
Take a break from everyday life and let your meal become part of the experience. Cooking over an open fire in the mountains is simple, atmospheric, and authentic—whether it's freshly caught fish, a hearty stew, or coffee simmering in a coffee pot. Gather around the fire, smell the smoke, and listen to the crackling while the mountain nature does the rest. This is not about perfection, but about community, presence, and the taste of mountain life.
4. Experience the bright summer evenings in the mountains
Summer in Vemdalen offers long, bright days that linger well into the evening. As the sun slowly sinks behind the mountains, the landscape is filled with a soft light and a tranquility that is hard to find anywhere else. Take a late evening walk, sit by the lake a little longer than usual, or enjoy the view from the steps of your cabin as the day slowly turns into evening. The bright summer evenings in the mountains provide space for reflection, tranquility, and memorable moments.
5. Take a refreshing dip in a waterfall
Treat yourself to a real mountain adventure and take a refreshing dip in crystal clear mountain water. Around Vemdalen there are several waterfalls where nature invites you to both hike and swim.
At Fettjeåfallet in Klövsjö, a two-kilometer hike through beautiful mountain scenery awaits, with swimming-friendly lagoons along the way and photo-friendly bridges framing the experience. Fallmoranfallen attracts visitors with its large, sheltered lagoon – perfect for a refreshing dip after the hike there. If you want a more accessible alternative, Mittåfallet in Långå is an excellent choice, where the large lagoon at the foot of the waterfall can be reached directly from the parking lot. Swimming in a waterfall is both energizing and memorable.
6. Visit an autumn market – crisp air, crafts, and delicacies
Autumn in Vemdalen offers a slower pace, bright colors, and time to pause and reflect. One of the best ways to soak up the autumn atmosphere is to visit one of the destination's cozy autumn markets. Both Klövsjö and Vemdalen bring together local producers, crafts, and flavors that belong to the season. Lodge & Lya, a little later in the fall, is also a must-see—a popular meeting place where the autumn market and fair come together in a mountain setting.
Grab a warm cup, stroll between the stalls, and let autumn do the rest. A warm and genuine experience.
7. Mountain hiking in autumn – colorful and delightful
Autumn is perhaps the most beautiful season in the mountains. The air is clear, the colors are deep, and the pace is slower. During autumn, there are also fewer visitors on the trails, the mosquitoes have disappeared, and the temperature is often perfect for hiking. A mountain hike in Vemdalen offers sparkling mountain birches, expansive views, and a tranquility that is good for both body and mind.
Take a short trip or set out on a longer hike – regardless of the length, nature experiences await where the mountains really come into their own.