See ostriches, zoom down snowy slopes and trace the natural and cultural history of the region in this former industrial town.
Borlänge is a historic municipality in the midst of waterways that crisscross through Sweden’s core. It has grown around a thriving industrial heritage, with old warehouses, mills and power stations providing a steely aesthetic to the local architecture. Learn about the intriguing history of the town and region via its many museums.
Near the main station stands the Borlänge Geological Museum, where you can find out about the area’s natural history. Head next door to the Jussi Bjorling Museum and learn about its namesake musician. Study the possessions and instruments that once belonged to the world-famous local tenor.
For an outdoor family activity on a pleasant day, bring your kids to the Sahlins Struts ostrich farm. It has an on-site brewery, a family atmosphere and a hundred of the long-necked flightless birds. On rainy days, browse the stores and cafés of the Kupolen Shopping Center, which is large and provides free parking.
Surrounding the town are stretches of great natural beauty. Travel south to the Frostbrunnsdalen Valley nature reserve and hike through the forest. Bring binoculars to spot the range of birds. Farther south is the Eco-Park Bergplant, an ecology site that provides guided tours.
In winter, have fun in the snow at the Romme Alpin ski resort, which has 33 slopes. Ascend to the mountain tops via the Solklinten Express chair lift, marveling at the views of snowy peaks as you rise.
Note that the town lies on the Dal River in Dalarna County in central Sweden. Take a train to the Borlänge train station or fly to Dala Airport, which stands in the southern outskirts of the town. While here, make sure to visit other nearby municipalities including Rättvik, Falun and Mora.
Ski slopes, ostriches and eclectic architecture are among the treats that await you in Borlänge.
