7 myths about the mountains in summer – and what it’s really like

Think a summer mountain holiday is only for those who want to hike far, bike fast or know the mountains well? It’s time to think again. Here we bust common myths about summer in the mountains.

Common myths about summer in the mountains

The mountains in summer might sound like long hikes, complicated planning and children getting bored after an hour. In reality, it can be simple, comfortable and full of experiences.

Here we bust seven common myths about summer in the mountains.

1. You have to be very sporty
2. There is not that much to do
3. It is difficult to plan
4. The children will get bored
5. Mountain biking is only for experts
6. It gets expensive if you want to do a lot
7. You have to choose between adventure and comfort

1. Myth: “You have to be very sporty”

No. You do not have to go on long summit hikes or ride downhill to enjoy the mountains. Short walks, easy trails, swimming, spa, restaurants and scenic breaks go a long way. If you want to be active, the options are there, but you decide the pace.

2. Myth: “There is not that much to do”

Quite the opposite. At several destinations, one day can include biking, hiking, climbing park, swimming, family activities and fast-paced experiences.

In Sälen and Trysil, there is even more gathered close by, and with a SummerPass it is easy to let the day shift between relaxed breaks and active experiences. In Åre, biking is the main attraction, with everything from downhill to trail biking, but there is also hiking, views, restaurants and mountain atmosphere long after the lift has closed.

3. Myth: “It is difficult to plan”

A summer holiday in the mountains can be quite simple. You can stay close to the activities, rent a bike and equipment on site and choose accommodation based on how much you want to organise yourself.

Hotels and lodges suit those who want restaurants and service close by, while an apartment or cabin gives you more flexibility with your own kitchen.

4. Myth: “The children will get bored”

For children, the mountains can feel like one big outdoor activity area. In Sälen, Valles sommarlov offers play and activities, and in Trysil there is an entire adventure park with speed and experiences for the whole family. Add swimming, biking and easy trips into nature, and the days quickly fill up.

5. Myth: “Mountain biking is only for experts”

Biking in the mountains can be calm, playful and beginner-friendly. Start with easy trails, pump tracks or relaxed trail biking, and try downhill when you want more speed.

If you feel unsure, you, your family or your group of friends get a safe start with a private guide. The guide adapts the session to your level and helps you with instruction, technique and the right route choices from the beginning, so you can bike safely, find your pace and become more confident on the bike together.

6. Myth: “It gets expensive if you want to do a lot”

It does not have to. Many of the simplest summer experiences cost little or nothing, such as hiking, swimming in mountain lakes, a picnic with a view and relaxed trips into nature.

Other activities, such as disc golf and fishing, can be affordable options depending on the destination. If you want to fill the days with more activities, a SummerPass can give you more experiences for your money.

7. Myth: “You have to choose between adventure and comfort”

You can fill the days with hiking, biking and activities, while still staying comfortably at a hotel, lodge or in a modern apartment close to restaurants and service.

That combination is exactly what makes summer in the mountains so good: nature is close, activities are easy to reach, and the evening can end with good food, spa, swimming or quiet time at your accommodation.

Ready to discover the mountains in summer?

Summer in the mountains can be exactly as active, relaxed, simple or comfortable as you want. Start by exploring our summer activities and find the mountain holiday that suits you.