The horse once played a vital role in traditional farm life — the pride of every homestead. When the men returned home from working in the forests, they would often bring hand-carved toys for their children, and naturally, the horse was the favorite to carve — a beloved symbol of everyday life on the farm. Some of the oldest wooden horses have been dated by carbon-14 testing to the 1500s, and archaeologists believe the tradition may go back as far as the 1100s. In the 18th century, traveling craftsmen began selling hand-carved horses across Sweden as they went on seasonal work journeys. Each village had its own distinct horse style. The Dala horse gained international fame at the World’s Fair in New York in 1939, and has since become a beloved symbol of Sweden.

At Myrängsgården, a wooden horse was even discovered hidden inside one of our old walls!

Here, you can book a carving session with our skilled woodcarvers. You’ll receive a wooden block and carving knife, and sit down with one of our talented Dala horse carvers who will guide you through the process. Carving is a deeply mindful and relaxing experience — most guests receive their wooden block at the start of their stay and spend quiet moments carving throughout the visit. It’s peaceful, creative, and inspiring to see how each horse takes shape in its own unique way. Who knows — you might just discover a new hobby!