Exploring Sala Silvergruva – A Fascinating Family Adventure Beneath Sweden
Just 1.5 hours from Stockholm lies one of Sweden’s most fascinating historical attractions – the legendary Sala Silvergruva. Hidden beneath the forests of Västmanland, this historic silver mine offers a unique glimpse into Sweden’s past and an unforgettable underground experience for both adults and curious kids.
We had been thinking of visiting this specific mine for a while and when the kids had a day off from school we took our shot! During our visit, we joined one of the guided underground tours and descended nearly 60 meters below the surface wearing helmets before entering the old mine tunnels. Cold, dark and incredibly atmospheric – it truly felt like stepping into another world.
Preparations & Descending
Before entering the mine, everyone was equipped with helmets and gathered for a guided tour led by an incredibly knowledgeable guide who shared stories about the mine’s history, the miners’ lives and the dramatic events connected to Sala Silvergruva over the centuries. We also got to hold a piece of Galenite – the stone that silver is extracted from.
After that we started our walk down the many steps down into the Sala Silvermine. At several places the guide stopped us and told us interesting stories about the mine and the workers.
The underground environment is quiet, mysterious and surprisingly beautiful in places – with dark tunnels, old wooden structures and shimmering wet rock surfaces creating an almost cinematic atmosphere. At some point the guide started singing out in the open void for us to hear how the echoes travelled through the tunnels.
A Mine That Helped Build Sweden
One thing we didn’t expect was the amount of Swedish history that we would learn during our visit! Sala Silvergruva dates back to the 15th century and was once one of Sweden’s most important silver mines. During its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries, the mine played a significant role in strengthening the Swedish kingdom and financing the Crown.
Silver from Sala helped fund wars, trade and royal ambitions during the era when Sweden was growing into a European power. Kings such as Gustav Vasa showed strong interest in the mine, understanding how valuable its silver production was for the country.
Our phenomenal guide told us both funny and tragic stories about the days of the mine, the kings that visited and the people (and horses!) working in the mine many hundred of years ago. Walking through the tunnels today gave us a powerful perspective on just how hard life must have been for the miners who worked there. The narrow passages, darkness and cold underground climate make it difficult to imagine the physical labor that once took place deep below the earth. At one point – when we where at the lowest possible point for our guided tour – the guide told us to turn of all lights/flash-lights. The darkness was unimageable! Then he lit a lighter and the tinies flame lit up our tunnel. That was the light the mine workers was using to get around and work in the mines with. So hard to understand for us modern people with electricity.
Our Thoughts
For families with children interested in history, adventure or unique experiences, this is such a memorable day trip from Stockholm! We highly recommend it to everyone!
Good to Know Before Visiting
You book your guided tour in advance on Sala Silvergruvas webpage and there are guided tours in English as well. Above ground, there is also a cozy visitor area with a café & souvenir shop, interactive exhibitions and historical buildings around the mine. There is also and indoor-picknick area if you bring your own food or fika. It makes the visit feel like a full destination rather than just a guided tour underground.
📍 Address
Sala Silvergruva
Gruvvägen 2
733 36 Sala, Sweden
🚗 Distance from Stockholm
Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Stockholm.
🎟️ Approximate Prices
Guided underground tours are usually:
Adults: around 200–300 SEK
Children: discounted prices available
Prices may vary depending on the season and type of tour.
👷 Important
The mine is cold underground year-round, so bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes. The temperature is approx. 5 degrees Celsius.
The tour is for kids aged 5 an up! Not a stroller friendly activity.
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Is Sala Silvergruva Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Check out our video on Instagram from our visit!
Sala Silvergruva is one of those places that combines Swedish history, adventure and storytelling in a way that feels both educational and genuinely exciting. It is atmospheric, memorable and unlike almost anything else we’ve experienced in Sweden.
For us, it became much more than just a guided tour – it was a reminder of how history can truly come alive when you experience it together as a family. Learning through travelling!
📸 Visited and photographed by Seashell Travels Family
Slow family travel, hidden gems & meaningful destinations in Sweden and beyond.