June 11, 2026 | Åre, Sweden.
The familiar question, "What is your favourite ski resort?" is a constant companion for seasoned ski writers. However, an equally frequent inquiry, particularly as the snow melts, revolves around off-season pursuits: "What do you do in the summer?" For many, the summer months transition from the thrill of carving powder to the quietude of mountain trails. This year, the journey begins in Scandinavia, specifically at Åre, Sweden, renowned for its alpine skiing prowess but increasingly showcasing its summer hiking potential.
While glacier skiing in the Alps, or even venturing to Australia, New Zealand, and South America for winter sports has been a recurring summer activity, a growing passion for hiking has taken root. This particular expedition leads to Åre, a destination that promises a unique blend of natural beauty and sporting heritage, even when cloaked in summer verdure. The author’s exploration commenced on the evocatively named "Trail of the Trolls," a route that immediately presented a challenging ascent, rewarding the effort with a cascade of increasingly spectacular vistas.
The Ascent and Historical Echoes
The "Trail of the Trolls" lived up to its name, offering a steep but invigorating climb that quickly revealed the breathtaking panoramas that define the Åre landscape. Higher up the trail, a significant landmark known as Nalleklippan was reached. This spot is steeped in local history, named after Erik "Nalle" Frestadius, a prominent figure who frequented Åre in the early 20th century. The nickname "Nalle" translates to "teddy bear," a charming moniker for a location that has clearly held a special place in the hearts of visitors for over a century.
Historical records indicate that in 1908, Nalle and his companions embarked on a hike to this very spot, which was then identified as his favourite location in Åre. It was Ture Marcus, a local hotelier, who subsequently christened the site "Nalleklippan," or "The Teddybear Ledge," cementing its place in the resort’s narrative. The ascent, though met with a steady, gentle rain, was made more manageable by strategically placed boards over the wettest sections, a testament to the thoughtful infrastructure development in the area.
Åre’s Summer Persona: A Different Kind of Majesty
Upon reaching the ski area proper, the transition from rugged trail to the more manicured infrastructure of a world-class ski resort was evident. In summer, ski areas often take on a unique character, a serene "ghost-town" atmosphere. The elaborate lift systems and well-groomed slopes remain, but the boisterous energy of winter is replaced by a quiet stillness. This contrast allows for a different appreciation of the landscape. The infrastructure, so vital for winter sports, now serves as a silent monument to the seasons past and a promise of those to come.
The author’s hiking guide for the day was none other than Henrik Windstedt, a legendary figure in the world of freeride skiing. A four-time winner of the Freeride World Tour and one of Åre’s most celebrated modern-day athletes, Windstedt offered invaluable insights into the mountain’s year-round appeal. "There are some fabulous trails here in Åre," Windstedt remarked, "whether you want a hike of a couple of hours or embark on a multi-day trip where you can stay in cabins or simply camp wild." He further emphasized the pristine natural resources available, noting, "You can drink freely from the mountain stream where you will taste the freshest water, and drink in the cool and clean mountain air."
The Allure of Åre for Summer Adventurers
Windstedt’s observations highlight Åre’s transformation into a multifaceted destination. The resort now actively promotes a range of summer activities, from accessible family strolls to demanding alpine peak ascents. Visitors can initiate their hikes directly from Åre Square or utilize the local lift systems to gain higher elevations, thereby shortening ascents and maximizing time for exploration. The day can be capped off with exceptional dining experiences and stays in cozy mountain lodges, blending adventure with comfort.
The resort’s commitment to catering to all levels of hikers is evident in its diverse trail network. These trails offer everything from gentle, family-friendly walks to challenging routes for seasoned mountaineers. The ever-changing mountain weather necessitates appropriate gear, and the availability of well-maintained trails ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.
Åre: A Statistical Overview of Scandinavia’s Premier Ski Resort
To fully appreciate Åre’s significance, understanding its scale and offerings is crucial. Åre stands as Scandinavia’s largest ski resort, boasting the region’s most significant vertical drop, measuring nearly 900 meters. It is one of only two resorts in Scandinavia equipped with a cable car, a feature often indicative of substantial vertical terrain. The other resort with such an amenity is Voss in Norway, a part of the "Norway – Home of Skiing" portfolio.
Collectively, Åre features 42 ski lifts and 89 slopes, providing access to its impressive 890-meter vertical descent. This extensive network solidifies its position as a premier destination for skiing in Scandinavia. Beyond the groomed runs, Åre also offers two meticulously designed snow parks, developed in collaboration with Olympic medalist Jesper Tjäder, alongside downhill slopes engineered for World Championship competitions. The resort is also celebrated for its legendary off-piste skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
"Unlike most resorts in Scandinavia, it has a high-altitude zone and a lower altitude area where the snow and skiing is distinctly different," explained Windstedt, emphasizing the resort’s varied microclimates and terrain. This diversity, he noted, ranges from gentle slopes suitable for beginners to challenging tree runs and expansive freeride terrain, appealing to a wide spectrum of winter sports enthusiasts.
Peak Performance: A Local Brand’s Global Ascent
Åre is not only a hub for outdoor recreation but also the birthplace of the renowned Scandinavian clothing brand, Peak Performance. This year marks a significant milestone for the company as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. A forthcoming blog post will delve deeper into the brand’s journey, tracing its origins from a modest shop in Åre in 1986 to its current status as a leading global snowsport apparel manufacturer. The article will examine the strategic decisions and challenges that have shaped its trajectory in a highly competitive market.
PlanetSKI, along with a select group of journalists from North America and Europe, was granted an exclusive preview of the offerings for the 2026/27 season. This early access provides a glimpse into the innovative designs and technologies that will define the upcoming winter.
The fastest-growing segment for Peak Performance, interestingly, is not its winter collection but its summer outdoor wear. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards embracing outdoor activities during the warmer months. "Hiking gear is seeing our biggest growth and has enormous potential as more people embrace the outdoors in the summer," stated Sebastian Saksson, the regional area manager for Scandinavia & UK, during a conversation at the Peak Performance store in Åre. This observation underscores the evolving market demands and Peak Performance’s strategic adaptation to them.
The Author’s Perspective and Future Endeavors
When pressed for his ultimate favourite ski resort, the author’s answer is unequivocal: Zermatt, Switzerland. This choice resonates with another significant figure connected to Peak Performance: Stefan Engström, one of the brand’s original founders. Having sold his stake in the business to Amer Sports, Engström now resides year-round in Zermatt, a testament to its enduring appeal. The author notes this shared preference with Engström as indicative of a discerning taste, and expresses anticipation for a future return to Åre during the winter months to experience its renowned skiing firsthand and provide a comprehensive report.
The summer hiking experience in Åre, while different from the thrill of skiing, offers its own unique rewards. It provides a profound connection with the mountain landscape, a chance to appreciate the resort’s natural beauty in a different light, and a deeper understanding of the ecosystem that sustains its winter sports legacy. The "Trail of the Trolls" and the historical significance of Nalleklippan serve as poignant reminders of the human stories woven into the fabric of these mountains.
As the author concludes this summer sojourn, the vibrant green slopes and crisp mountain air of Åre leave a lasting impression. The resort, while celebrated for its winter prowess, proves to be an equally captivating destination for those who seek adventure and natural beauty throughout the year. The insights gained from local legends and the firsthand experience of the trails provide a compelling narrative that extends far beyond the ski season, showcasing Åre as a truly year-round mountain destination.
The journey continues with a look at the Peak Performance collection and further exploration of Åre’s potential as a summer hiking paradise, offering a holistic view of a resort that consistently redefines itself. The promise of returning to experience the snow-covered slopes of Åre in the upcoming winter season remains a strong motivator, ensuring that this exploration of Scandinavia’s premier ski resort is far from over.
