Nusnäs

TL;DR: Nusnäs is a charming Swedish village just 10km from Mora where you can watch the famous Dala horses being handcrafted, cycle scenic trails around Lake Siljan, and experience authentic Dalarna culture. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone seeking a unique Swedish adventure.

What Makes Nusnäs So Special?

Picture this: a cozy village nestled in the heart of Sweden where artisans have been crafting the country’s most beloved symbol for nearly a century. Nusnäs is where the famous Dala horse – Sweden’s national symbol – is made, with around 200,000 of these iconic wooden horses created here every year and sold worldwide.

This isn’t just any tourist trap. With just 729 inhabitants, Nusnäs feels authentically Swedish – the kind of place where you can actually chat with the craftspeople creating these masterpieces and understand the centuries-old traditions that make them so special.

The Magic of Dala Horse Workshops

Nils Olsson Hemslöjd: The Crown Jewel

The Nils Olsson workshop has been operating since 1928, when brothers Nils (15) and Jannes (13) borrowed $400 to start their business. Today, it’s one of the most famous Dala horse producers in the world.

What You’ll Experience:

• Free factory tours where you can walk around and see the entire production process from raw wood to finished horse
• Production viewing available weekdays until 15:30, painting demonstrations until 18:00
• Hands-on painting experiences where you can decorate your own Dala horse
• Regular guided tours June-August, with group tours available year-round on request

Pro Tip: If there’s no guided tour during your visit, you can still explore the factory independently and ask questions to the skilled craftsmen.

Grannas A. Olsson Hemslöjd: The Original

Founded in 1922, Grannas is actually the oldest company still making Dala horses, making it slightly older than Nils Olsson. Fun fact: the founders were actually brothers – Grannas was the oldest of 9 children and started the business when he was 24.

Shopping Smart:

• Prices range from 145 SEK (about €13) for a 3cm classic red horse to over 10,000 SEK (€920) for a 60cm masterpiece
• Both workshops offer unique colors and designs not found in regular tourist shops
• You’ll also find traditional clogs, local crafts, and other Swedish souvenirs

Beyond the Dala Horses: Activities for Everyone

Cycling Paradise

Nusnäs sits perfectly positioned for exploring Dalarna by bike. The village is part of a 26km cycling trail from Mora that’s flat and suitable for all skill levels, taking 2-4 hours to complete.

Must-Try Routes:

• Mora-Nusnäs Loop: Perfect for families, mostly flat with beautiful lake views
• Siljansleden: The longer regional trail that passes through the area
• Forest Paths: Return routes through scenic forests and past traditional villages

Lake Siljan Adventures

Being close to Lake Siljan, Sweden’s sixth-largest lake, opens up endless water activities:

• Swimming at nearby beaches
• Kayaking and canoeing
• Fishing (with proper permits)
• Many accommodations offer complimentary boats and canoes

Nearby Attractions (All Within 30 Minutes)

Mora (10km away):

• Zorn Museum showcasing Anders Zorn, one of Sweden’s most famous artists
• Zorngården, Zorn’s historically preserved home
• Vasaloppet Museum and finish line
• Tomteland (Santa World) – claimed to be one of Santa’s homes

Sollerön Island:

• The largest island in Lake Siljan, perfect for a day trip
• Traditional Swedish island culture and beautiful nature

Where to Stay: From Cozy to Luxurious

Budget-Friendly Options

Guesthouses and B&Bs:

• Charming cottages right by Siljan beach with private jetties
• Traditional red cottages on Sollerön island with authentic Swedish atmosphere
• Most offer basic kitchen facilities and beautiful lake views

Mid-Range Comfort

Vacation Rentals:

• Modern villas with full amenities, patios, and garden access
• Newly built (2017) guest houses perfect for small families
• Many hosts provide thoughtful touches like fresh fruit, local bread, and even eggs from their own hens

Nearby Hotels (Mora)

For those preferring hotel amenities:

• Mora Hotell & Spa: Located in central Mora, just 100 meters from Lake Siljan
• Hotels with fitness centers, spas, and excellent breakfast buffets
• Many offer free parking and are walking distance to attractions

Getting There: Easier Than You Think

Coordinates: 60°58′N 14°38′E

From Stockholm

• By Train: Take the train to Mora station, then bus 108 to Nusnäs
• By Car: About 3-4 hours drive through beautiful Swedish countryside

Local Transportation

• Bus line 324 connects Mora and Nusnäs with 3-5 departures daily, taking just 12-23 minutes
• Tickets cost just $3-5 for the short journey
• Driving takes only 13 minutes and costs $2-3 in fuel

Local Flavors: What to Eat

While Nusnäs itself is small, the Mora area offers excellent dining:

Traditional Swedish Cuisine

• Plankstek: The local specialty you absolutely must try
• Fresh Fish: From Lake Siljan and surrounding waters
• Wild Game: Elk, deer, and other local specialties
• Traditional Baked Goods: Including Swedish cinnamon buns and local pastries

Dining Options

• Summer cafés at the Dala horse workshops offering coffee, ice cream, and light lunches
• Restaurants in Mora serving both traditional Swedish dishes and international cuisine
• Many accommodations offer kitchen facilities for self-catering

When to Visit: Timing is Everything

Summer (June-August): Peak Season

Best for:

• Regular guided tours at the workshops
• Summer cafés open at attractions
• Perfect cycling and hiking weather
• Long daylight hours (up to 19 hours!)
• Lake activities and swimming

Spring/Fall (April-May, September-October)

Perfect for:

• Fewer crowds but most attractions still open
• Beautiful fall colors or spring blooms
• You can still visit factories and watch artisans work
• Great for photography

Winter (November-March)

Special experiences:

• Authentic Swedish winter atmosphere
• Nearby Vasaloppet cross-country skiing events
• Cozy indoor workshop visits
• Possible Northern Lights viewing (on clear nights)

Cultural Insights: Understanding the Dala Horse Legacy

The History Behind the Magic

The tradition dates back to the 18th century when lumberjacks would carve wooden horses during long winter nights as toys for their children. In Nordic mythology, horses belonged to the Gods, making them powerful symbols of strength, courage, faithfulness, wisdom, and dignity.

The Dala horse gained international fame when it was presented as traditional Swedish folk art at the World’s Expo in Paris (1937) and the World’s Fair in New York (1939).

The Craft Today

The wood comes from slow-growing pine forests around Lake Siljan, ideal for carpentry and carving. Trees are marked while still standing in the forest. After carving and sanding, horses are dipped in paint and decorated by skilled “ripple” painters using traditional Kurbits patterns – an art that takes years to master.

Practical Tips for Visitors

What to Budget

• Dala Horse Souvenirs: €13-920 depending on size and complexity
• Accommodation: €50-150 per night depending on type
• Transportation: Very affordable with good public transport
• Food: €15-30 per meal depending on restaurant choice

What to Pack

• Comfortable walking shoes for factory tours
• Camera for capturing the craftspeople at work
• Weather-appropriate clothing (Swedish weather can change quickly!)
• Cash for smaller purchases (though cards are widely accepted)

Language

Don’t worry if you don’t speak Swedish! Most locals speak excellent English, and the tourist attractions cater to international visitors.

Why Nusnäs Should Be on Your Sweden Itinerary

Nusnäs isn’t just about buying souvenirs – it’s about experiencing living Swedish culture. Where else can you watch master craftspeople creating items that represent an entire nation’s identity? As one visitor noted, “Skills for creating the Dala Horse have been passed from generation to generation and today it is one of the few living folk traditions of Sweden”.

Whether you’re traveling with kids who’ll love painting their own horses, couples seeking authentic cultural experiences, or solo travelers interested in traditional crafts, Nusnäs offers something genuinely special. It’s a place where you can see how a simple wooden toy became a global symbol of Swedish craftsmanship and pride.

Plus, its location in beautiful Dalarna means you’re surrounded by the landscapes that inspired Swedish artists like Anders Zorn and countless others. This region has been described as a “miniature Sweden” for good reason – it contains everything that makes the country special.

Ready to plan your Nusnäs adventure? This charming village proves that sometimes the most meaningful travel experiences come in the smallest packages. Just like the Dala horses themselves, Nusnäs may be small, but it holds the heart of Swedish culture within its borders.

Have you visited Nusnäs or are you planning a trip? Share your experiences and questions – this living guide grows with every traveler’s story!