Orsa: Discover Lakes, Bogs and Culture

Orsa lies on the shore of Lake Orsasjön. In the municipality, deep forests and extensive bogs shape the landscape in the north of Finnmarken; to the south are agricultural landscapes, open expanses and large lakes. Wildlife watching, hiking trails, winter sports and historic sites offer different ways to enjoy your stay.

Shoreline Landscapes and Birdwatching

The grazed shoreline meadows of Lindänget on Lake Orsasjön serve as a resting place for migratory birds. A platform offers views across the coastal meadows. A footpath from the centre of Orsa connects with the existing trails in the Lindänget nature reserve. This makes it possible to combine birdwatching with a visit to the town centre.

Bogs, Forests and Trails

Koppången Nature Reserve is known for its extensive, valuable bogs and reliable snow cover throughout many winter months. When there is no snow, you can hike there; in winter, several trails are available for skiing. Snow and trail conditions may vary. The easiest way to reach Koppången is via a large car park on the E45, about 30 kilometres north of Orsa. Check the current parking regulations.

The route descriptions in the municipality also cover a variety of trails. The 340-kilometre Siljansleden passes through Orsa Municipality. The trail at Tjåberget is described as a 6.5-kilometre one-way hike; it is not a loop. Near Orsa, a nature trail of about one kilometre leads to two waterfalls on the Stopån. The four-kilometre Stopån loop connects the waterfalls with a shelter. Check route details before setting out.

The Stopån valley is deeply incised and covered in lush spruce forest; the river forms two waterfalls there. The hiking trail in the Enån valley follows the river and passes through steep, rocky terrain in places. A suspension bridge is located at Helvetesfallet near Orsa. A trail a few hundred metres long leads down to the waterfall. Remains of a historic structure used for log driving are still visible there.

Summer and Winter Activities

In summer, Orsa Grönklitt offers mountain biking and gravel cycling, a high ropes course, canoeing and mini golf. The high ropes course has several routes of varying difficulty; seasonal availability may vary. In winter, it offers downhill skiing on slopes of varying difficulty as well as cross-country skiing.

To get there by public transport, take the train to Mora, then a bus to Orsa and onwards to Orsa Grönklitt. Check current train and bus schedules before travelling. For cycling, the municipality has long gravel and country roads for leisurely rides, as well as trails and paths for more technically challenging riding. There are also family-friendly loops, training opportunities on gravel roads and mountain bike trails in forest terrain in and around Orsa.

Church, Crafts and Local History

Orsa Church has medieval origins; remains of the first stone church have been preserved in the current building. The church floor is made of sandstone from the local grindstone quarries. Many stones bear a donor’s mark or initials, as well as dates. The tower museum displays objects relating to the church’s history; visits are arranged by appointment.

Several sandstone artworks in the centre of Orsa tell the story of the region’s long history of grindstone quarrying and craftsmanship. Frelins gränd is home to the Walk of Orsa, a local Walk of Fame. It honours people and phenomena whose achievements and contributions have made Orsa known far beyond Dalarna.

Fryksås is a well-preserved fäbod settlement dating from the 16th century in Orsa Municipality. Orsa Hembygdsgård consists of historic wooden buildings and numerous objects; the buildings were moved here from different parts of Orsa. Visits are offered there in summer, and a traditional Midsummer celebration takes place on Midsummer’s Day. Check dates and access before visiting.

Orsayran is an annual street music festival in Orsa that began in 1984. If you would like to combine your trip with the festival, check the dates for the year in question.

Discover more destinations: Orsa, Älvdalen, Dala-Järna, Gagnef, Mora, Dala-Husby, Leksand, Avesta

Go to the main travel overview: Dalarnas County.