"Framåt Falun! | Forward Falun!"
About:
Falun, a city in Dalarna County, Sweden, was founded in the 11th century around the local copper mine. The city flourished during the 17th century, becoming one of the largest in Sweden. The mine closed in 1992, but its cultural significance led to Falun's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Today, Falun is a vibrant regional center for culture and education, hosting the Dalarna University and several annual events, including the Ski World Cup and the music festival, Sabaton Open Air.
When to visit:
Falun, a picturesque city located in the heart of Sweden, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The best time to visit Falun is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring the city's historic sites and natural beauty. This period also coincides with the annual Falun Dance and Music Festival, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local arts and music scene. For those interested in winter sports, the snowy months from December to February provide ample opportunities for skiing and snowboarding on the nearby slopes of Lugnet.
When to avoid:
Traveling to Falun during the winter holiday season, typically from late December to early January, may not be the most ideal time due to extreme cold temperatures and heavy snowfall. The city experiences sub-zero temperatures during this time, making outdoor activities challenging for travelers not accustomed to such harsh conditions. Additionally, popular tourist attractions such as the Falun Copper Mine may have limited accessibility or shorter operating hours during the holiday period. It is advisable to check weather forecasts and plan accordingly if traveling to Falun during this time.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
In Falun, Sweden, the coldest portion of the year is from December to February. Average temperatures range from -7°C to -2°C. Snow is prevalent, with monthly averages of 30-40cm, creating a winter wonderland. Days are short, with about 2-3 hours of sunlight, and cloud cover is significant. An average day for a visitor might involve bundling up for a brisk walk or engaging in winter sports like skiing or ice skating. Despite the cold, the beauty of the snow-covered city is enchanting.
Summer (June-August)
In Falun, Sweden, the warmest part of the year is typically from late June to mid-August. During this time, the average high temperatures range from 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F), while the average low temperatures range from 11°C to 14°C (52°F to 57°F).
Rainfall during this period is moderate, with monthly totals averaging around 60-70mm. This is spread over an average of 10-12 days per month, so while there is a fair chance of encountering some rain, there are also plenty of dry days. The relative humidity is typically around 75-80%, which can make the air feel a bit heavy but is generally not uncomfortable.
Sunlight is abundant in the Swedish summer, with Falun experiencing up to 18 hours of daylight per day at the height of the season. However, it's worth noting that the sun's intensity is less than in more southerly latitudes, so the light has a softer, more diffused quality.
Cloudiness varies, but on average, about half of the days are partly cloudy, and the rest are either mostly sunny or mostly cloudy.
For a visitor, a typical day in Falun during the warmest part of the year would feel pleasantly mild to warm, with a good chance of at least some sunshine. There may be occasional rain showers, but these are usually not too heavy and don't last all day. The high latitude means long, lingering twilight hours, which can be a magical experience for those not used to it.
Language:
Swedish is the official and most commonly spoken language in Falun, a city located in Dalarna County, Sweden. A significant portion of the population is also proficient in English, due to Sweden's strong emphasis on bilingual education. Additionally, there are minority communities who speak languages such as Arabic, Somali, and Kurdish.