Apart from being a pretty little town, Rättvik’s main charm is its lovely lake and a very impressive pier that goes way into the lake.
Located on the shores of the beautiful Lake Siljan in Dalarna in Sweden, Rättvik is a popular choice among the locals to spend their summer vacation.

Things To Do In Rättvik

Långbryggan – The Longest pier in Scandinavia

Rattvik Pier at sunset
Rattvik Pier

This 628 meter long pier, the longest in Scandinavia, starts just behind the Train Station. The long wooden panels lead out onto Lake Siljan. At several spots on the pier you can take a few steps down, closer to the water. Originally meant for smaller boats to dock it also makes a very nice picnic spot as many locals do. At the end of the pier there’s a generous area with some trees, greenery and a good number of benches to relax.

Take a walk out on the jetty in the sunset and you will have a great time and views! Bring your camera to record the gorgeous views at the end of the pier.

Rättviks Kyrka – Ancient Church

Rättvik Church, Dalarna, Sweden
Inside Rattvik church

This 13th century church has been enlarged many times and its current shape is from 1793.  The beautiful Triumphal Crucifix supposedly made in Germany in the 14th century is still well-preserved in the church.  Some other older gems include the medieval frescoes depicting  St Olav and St Stephen as also the unique altar piece and pulpit – from the 17th century.

There are 87 church stables around the church – some from the end of the 15th century.  These stables were used by the parishioners to house their horses while they attended the church services.   

Styggforsen- Waterfall and Nature Reserve

Styggforsen Waterfall in Rättvik
Troll hole Styggforsen in Rättvik

This waterfall and nature reserve are worth visiting. There is a pleasant circular walk to the waterfall (Styggforsen) and the cave, called the troll hole.

The story behind this place is that a prehistoric impact crater was formed 377 million years ago when a meteorite struck the earth’s surface. Some effects of the impact are still visible. You can take a stroll to look at the ‘troll hole’ (cave) at the foot of the waterfall. In addition, there is good signage describing the history both in English and Swedish.

The views of the waterfall and of the exposed rock from the meteoroid strike are quite impressive. It is an easy walking trail with some uneven slopes and a lot of tall trees – a very peaceful place!

 

Pretty square in Rattvik
Rattvik in Sweden

Be sure not to miss out on the compact but very charming city center of Rättvik around Storgatan. It has a delightful fountain with three dancing girls and three men playing violins – a symbol of folk music.

If you decide to stay on for a day or two, as we did, try to find a place which gives you a view of the pier, the lake and the occasional train running down the track. Perfect place to put your feet up after a full day of driving and walking, with a glass of wine to watch the lingering sunset over the lake!

Rattvik in Dalarna, Sweden
Rättvik in Sweden

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