Mora

Introducing Mora

Mora is spliced with Sweden's historic soul. Legend has it that in 1520 Gustav Vasa arrived here, in a last-ditch attempt to start a rebellion against the Danish regime. The people of Mora weren't interested, and Gustav was forced to put on his skis and flee for the border. After he left, the town reconsidered and two yeomen, Engelbrekt and Lars, volunteered to follow Gustav's tracks, finally overtaking him in Sälen and thereby changing Swedish history.

Today the world's biggest cross-country ski race Vasaloppet, which ends in Mora, commemorates this epic chase, and involves 90km of gruelling Nordic skiing. Around 15, 000 people take part on the first Sunday in March. In summer, you can walk the route on the 90kmVasaloppsleden.

The tourist office (59 20 20; mora@siljan.se; 10am-7pm Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm Sat & Sun mid-Jun-mid-Aug, 10am-5pm Mon-Fri rest of yr) is at the train station. There are banks, supermarkets and other facilities in town, primarily on Kyrkogatan. The library (267 79; Köpmangatan) has Internet access.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009