Nils Olsson Hemslöjd (Dala horses), Nusnäs

The little red wooden horse comes from Nusnäs, an hour's drive around the lake. In the workshop you watch carvers and painters at work, and the factory shop sells every size — including seconds at half price. A proper piece of Dalarna to take home.

The workshop is free to walk through and the painters don't mind questions. Allow a good hour — more if you want a custom-painted horse; they ship worldwide if your luggage is full.