all of Sweden in one province

Transcription

1 all of Sweden in one province See our Holiday tips and packages on page12-13 and at DALSLAND.COM Information Inspiration Booking DALSLAND.COM 1

2 TOURIST OFFICES BENGTSFORS Sågudden 1, Bengtsfors Tel DALS-ED Torget 4, Ed Tel HÅVERUD Dalsland Center Håverud Tel MELLERUD Medborgarkontoret Storgatan 13, Mellerud Tel ÅMÅL Hamngatan 1, Åmål Tel Fax FÄRGELANDA Medborgarkontoret Färgelanda Tel VÄNERSBORG Järnvägsstationen, Vänersborg Tel Who says far away can t be near? There are many ways to travel to us in Dalsland, whether you prefer bus, car, train, plane or ferry. Here are some places that could be your end-destination or just a stop-off on your journey to somewhere else: If you travel by train there are stations in Mellerud, Åmål, Ed and Vänersborg. If bus works better for you, you should know that the public transport company Västtrafik runs services throughout Dalsland. In addition, the coach company Swebuss run express coaches to and from Dalsland. There are airport buses from Landvetter International Airport, City Airport in Gothenburg and Karlstad. The airports in and around our region are Landvetter International Airport, City Airport Gothenburg, Trollhättan, Karlstad, Rygge and Gardermoen. If you arrive by boat, you have a choice of ferries between Gothenburg and Kiel in Germany, Sandefjord in Norway to Strömstad, and Danish Helsingör to Helsingborg or Fredrikshamn to Gothenburg. By choosing the Öresund Bridge, between Denmark and the south of Sweden, you can drive all the way. Like we said many roads lead to Dalsland. Dalslands Turist AB is a regional company that is assigned to work for the development of tourism within Dalsland s six municipalities. Cooperation with local government and businesses makes Dalsland stronger, more visible and more competitive. Cooperation makes us destination Dalsland! DALSLANDS TURIST AB Dalsland Tourist Board Centrumvägen 2, Bengtsfors info@dalsland.com CEO, Johan Abenius, +46(0) Web, Lena L. Wong, +46(0) Marketing, Gaby K. Hain, +46(0)

3 CONTENTS TOURIST OFFICES 02 ALL OF SWEDEN IN ONE PROVINCE ACTIVE HOLIDAY 06 GOLF 11 HOLIDAY TIPS THE DALSLAND CANAL 14 CANOEING 18 FISHING 20 LAKE VÄNERN LIVE WELL & EAT WELL 24 CONFERENCES 29 A TASTE OF DALSLAND CAMPING 32 CULTURE 34 ADVERTS 42 COMPANY REGISTER MAP OF DALSLAND 59 DALSLAND 2015 is produced by Dalslänningen, NWT AB tel and Dalslands Turist AB tel Text & photo: Dalsland Turist AB. Translation Patricia Söder Print Sörmlands Grafiska. 3

4 ALL OF SWEDEN Tresticklan National park. Photo: Mats Karlsson View over the lakes Djup and Ånimmen Photo Lasse Forsberg Lake Vänern near Åmål Photo Björn Lindblom 4

5 DALSLAND All of Sweden in one province Deep forests, mountains, fertile agricultural plains, white sandy beaches, canals, lakes and archipelagos that s Dalsland! I congratulate you! You have in your hands a magazine marketing most of what happens in Dalsland You can just pick and choose. The landscape is not huge but it is packed with different events and holiday possibilities to select from. We like to boast that Dalsland is all of Sweden in one county, or as Prince Eugen once said Dalsland a Sweden in miniature. WATER Lake Vänern with 22,000 islands in stunning archipelagos, the flat plains in the southeast, the hilly forest landscape reflecting a pure northern environment and so the water. The abundance of which is so prominent in the county. The Dalsland canal system stretches over 250 kilometers and consists of lakes, ponds, streams and so Vänern, our beautiful inland sea. Glancing at the map of Dalsland, it almost looks like an archipelago landscape. Yes, here in Dalsland we are proud of our nature. CULTURE We are also equally proud of Dalsland s rich culture partially characterized by a strong feeling for our native heritage such as the unique Straw Handicrafts tradition. However Dalsland is also known for international design courses at university level and innovative places of art. All of which are advantageous for a prosperous cultural scene allowing us to have events, exhibitions and festivals all year round. SELECT AND COMBINE Nature and culture, there is always something for both body and soul. Browse through the magazine and be inspired. Hiking, fishing, biking, boating, trolley, art walks, canoe, food, book days, blues, trotting, elks, museums, beaver safaris, industrial history, aqueduct, canal, swimming, camping, manor house hotels, cottages, concerts, festivals, markets, flea markets, skiing, adventure, canal boats, golf, galleries, prehistoric petroglyphs and riding are some examples of what is on offer. Select and combine. Check out all of the current events at and please visit our tourist offices. We have always something that would attract you so why rush around all over Sweden when you can have it all here? Enjoy your reading and welcome to Dalsland! Johan Abenius, Managing Director Dalslands Turist AB 5

6 AKTIV SEMESTER ACTIVE HOLIDAY Riding tour at Dalslands Aktiviteter Vy över sjön Ärr utanför Fengersfors Foto Lasse Forsberg 6 Photo: Arne Berg Hiking on Pilgrimsleden. Photo: Kjell Fjelsén

7 ACTICE HOLIDAY Dalslands Aktiviteter experiences that last a loooong time Dalslands Aktiviteter at Steneby Farm outside Dals Långed is an adventure center with many years experience. Having the exciting and un-spoiled Dalsland nature as a base you can choose from over 50 different activities, everything from an adrenaline kick to enjoying and relaxing in the pleasant surroundings. FOR THE ADVENTURER At the adventure center the more daring can easily fill their entire quota of daring challenges, such as rope courses, zip lines and pole jumps. Together with a knowledgeable guide on hand, you will find yourself up in treetops, in the air, down mountains and trying out new and exciting experiences. But not all activities take place in the air, try swinging an ax or shooting with a bow and arrow. DROP-IN During the summer a wide variety of scheduled activities are available every day for the whole family that don t require advance booking. Kids love Dalslands Aktiviteter! There are lots of exciting animals, pony rides and an elk park as well as pike and crayfish in the Pike oasis a play and learn room for the children. NATURE AT A SLOWER PACE Will you experience Dalsland s nature at a slower pace? A popular option is to see the nice surroundings on horseback. You can take a ride along paths in the forest and beside the lake. Two-day trips are available but also shorter trips for the inexperienced rider. Fancy a magical walking experience? Since last year you can even enjoy the enchanting scenery around Steneby River on foot by strolling along a 1.8km boardwalk (suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs) which takes you through the jungle-like old forest with the river right beside you. EXCITING ACCOMMODATION & GOOD FOOD Here you live in the wild. There are three fine campsites with tee pees for sleeping, holding conferences and a third one for eating in. You can also choose to sleep in a modernized lakebarn or a simple little waterside cottage with a wood stove. Steneby Grytan ensures that you won t get hungry during your visit. This wellrecommended restaurant offers good wellcooked, nature-inspired food at reasonable prices. Try an elk burger, a specialty made from local game. After an eventful day you can relax at Steneby Grytan s outdoor veranda. Rapelling på Dalslands Aktiviteter Experience more Pedal a Rail Trolley Pedaling a rail trolley is exciting and easy at the same time. Steel wheels roll pretty well along the steel track and there is no chance of going astray either.just follow the track. Here you can pause anywhere and enjoy what the landscape has to offer. The stretch between Bengtsfors and Årjäng is 50km, not quite flat but no direct tough climbs. Trolleys can be hired at DVVJ, railway station, either in Bengtsfors or Årjäng. The tour of the border area between Dalsland and Värmland is varied and beautiful not for nothing it s called The Beautiful View Railway Line. You pass forests, open countryside and several nice lakes on your tour so, if the weather permits, it is a good idea to bring along your swim-suit. The second stretch is 10km long and follows the idyllic lakes from Forsbackabaden outside Åmål to Bollsbyn in Svanskog. Trolleys can be hired at Daltrail. All trolley tours can be combined with a canoeing trip and naturally assistance with transport can be arranged. 7

8 ACTICE HOLIDAY Hike, wander, stroll, walk! BRÄNDA BERGET Two trails 9 or 11 km around Bengtsbrohöljen starting at the fire station in Bengtsfors. It s mostly hilly forest terrain and with beautiful views over the lake. STORSPÅRET 20 KM From Hanebols outdoor facility in Åmål a trail leads you to Edsleskog, from where you can reach the Pilgrimsleden. The following are some of our most popular trails. The trails are between 2 and 56 km long. Follow them and experience amazing Dalsland on foot. TRESTICKLAN, ED On the border to Norway you will find Dalsland s one and only national park with excellent hiking trails from 3 to 22 km taking you through unique untouched wilderness. MOTIONSGÅRDEN TAVLAN, ED A first class hiking and ski area. Starting at sport center Tavlan just outside of the town Ed, the trails between 4 and 24 km long take you across widespread bog lands. KROPPEFJÄLL With its abundantly rich fauna and panoramic view, the nature reserve in the southern part of Kroppefjället is an ideal choice for an excursion. Nature trails and circle routes of various lengths are easily accessible from Ragnerudssjön Camping. At the top of Sörknatten KARL XII S TRAIL, KROPPEFJÄLL This is one of our most popular tourist trails. It is 15 km long and stretches over the hill at Dals Rostock to Järbo church on the hill s west side. Pilgrimsleden. Photo: Kjell Fjellsén SUNDALS RYR Here you will find 13 very nice hiking trails of various characters in and around Kroppefjäll. The paths are between 2 and 14 km long. Maps are sold, for example, at Eventorps Gård. TORRSKOGSLEDEN On a 25 km long circle trail north of Bengtsfors, Torrskogsleden takes hikers along old paths through ancient woodland and over clearings with their panoramic views. Don t miss the awesome view from the two nice observation towers! EGERSKNATTEN The trail up to Egersknatten is about 2,5 km long with its starting-point at road 172 north of Bengtsfors. PILGRIMSLEDEN, 56 KM Dalslands longest hiking trail extends from Holms church outside of Mellerud to Edsleskogs church in the community of Åmål. This stretch is marked with St. Olof s sign, it is a historical trail which traces the footsteps of ancient pilgrims on their way to Nidaros in Norway. EDSLESKOG Several great hikes begin in and around Edsleskog. Such as: The 3 km long Bräcke Änger Nature reserve trail, the 1,5 km trail up to Dalslands highest mountain in Baljåsens nature reserve and the trail to Linheden which is 4 km. YTTRE BODANE Several different trails and circle routes are provided in this fascinating nature reserve by the shores of Lake Vänern. Boardwalks and bridges have been built in this hilly hiking terrain making it possible to explore Lake Vänerns islands and skerries. More hiking tips and maps can be found at The new book Vandra i Dalsland contains information on 20 oneday trips together with photos, text, maps and GPS coordinates (Swedish and Dutch only). 8

9 AKTIV SEMESTER RACES & COMPETITIONS Dalsland is full of different races and competitions. The following are a few of the larger categories, but check with the tourist office - there are more! Dalsland XC Dalsland X-Country is a little tougher race for MTB organized for the fifth time in It is a great bike challenge! Chose between the distance of 35 km and 60 km winding its way through the beautiful Dalsland nature. Dalsland is a varied landscape, a Sweden in miniature which is also seen in the competition s courses and trails. The tournament is held on the 2nd of May. Both the start and finish-lines are in Bengtsfors. Brudfjäll Bike Race Bring some friends and cycle a lap along a beautiful and hilly course through the scenic Brudfjäll in Dalsland. The race is 110 km long and with its 1150 meters of altitude a good challenge for most. The shorter course is 47 km long and takes you over the famous Aqueduct in Håverud. Excellent if you are looking for a pleasant enjoyable bike ride along Dalsland s roads between Mellerud and Brudfjäll. The races will take place on 16th May. On two wheels through Dalsland Biking is fun! If you combine this healthy activity with your vacation, new beautiful scenery or challenges in the form of different competitions you will make biking even more fun. Dalsland is made for adventures on two wheels. Our rural countryside with its winding gravel roads will take you through forests, across prairies and alongside lakes. These roads are connected to villages, churches, farmyards, second-hand shops, museums, cafés, art studios Create and put together your own individual bike route. Or make your life a little bit easier and use our official cycling routes; Dalslandsleden or Sverigeleden. If you want to be sure to explore the best of Dalsland, you can let a skilled native of Dalsland organize activities and beautiful routes for your individual biking. Lotta at Dalslandsresor has many lovely biking packages in her program. She will even take care of your baggage transport! With its hilly terrain Dalsland might not be the easiest biking challenge in Sweden, but rewards after hard pedaling are never far away. Thanks to the landscapes changing character fantastic views are always around the corner and after biking upwards there are almost always wonderful downhills waiting. If you should prefer to hop over the hills, Dalsland can offer the beautiful plains of The bridge at the 18th lock. Photo: Lasse Forsberg southern Dalsland. It is not as flat as Skåne but much easier biked than the rest of Dalsland. The abundance of small gravel roads and forest paths offer perfect possibilities and adrenalin kicks for the more enthusiastic biker. MTB-cyclists love Dalsland. Kroppefjäll in the south of Dalsland is one of many areas with tricky paths and challenges. Interest in biking competitions is huge today. Dalsland arranges several road and mountain bike races plus a couple of multisport events. You will find the most popular of these in the calendar of events below and to the left. RACES AND COMPETITIONS Running June 6th Karolinerjoggen, Dals Rostock Kroppefjäll. Distances: 6 km and 15 km Aug 1st Baldersnäsjoggen, Baldersnäs. Distances: 6 km and 12 km Aug 15th Hagenrundan, Åmål. Distance: 7,6 km and 14,9 km Oct 3rd Dalsland X-Trail, Distance: 9 km and 13 km Cykling May 2nd Dalsland X-Country, Bengtsfors, Distance: 35 km and 60 km May 16th Brudfjällsracet & Brudfjällsrundan, Mellerud, Distance: 110 km and 47 km June 7 th Karolinertrampet, Kroppefjäll Distance: 10 km and 30 km 9

10 ACTICE HOLIDAY Horse trotting has a long history in Sweden and Dalsland has been part of it from the start. Here people have competed with their horses since the 19th century. Åmål s racetrack is one of Sweden s smaller tracks with 11 racing days from April to September. Here local and visiting trainers and jockeys mainly from Sweden and Norway meet and take part in the competitions. The most distinguishing feature of this racetrack in Åmål is its friendly atmosphere. Trotting, races and entertainment Each year 20,000 visitors get together to enjoy the beautiful horses, exciting races, make a bet, have a bite to eat in the restaurant, try out the hamburgers from the grill and generally have a good time. If you are lucky your wallet can be much thicker on the way home. This year s highlights include V 86 in June, Bluestravet in July and The Right Way in August. The organizers of Åmål s racetrack offer a wide range of activities with horses, Beautiful, MC-friendly Dalsland which include various forms of team events, children s parties, tandem riding and more. If you have never ridden a racehorse at full speed, they promise an out of the ordinary experience, customizing different events for both children and adults. The sun is shining, the flags fluttering against the blue sky, the horses ready for start, tension rises.welcome! A great way to discover Dalsland is by MC, a landscape that offers comfortable cruising along winding, quiet roads, past grazing horses and red wooden houses. Experience the fresh countryside, glimmering bright blue lakes, tempting swimming coves and bikefriendly summer cafés, farm shops, artisans and second hand shops. It is easy to find favourite roads of which you can t get enough. The bike, the MC clothes and the limited amount of baggage is what differs motorcycle riders from other adventure-seeking tourists. Everyone wants nice accommodation and good food and of course you are welcome everywhere but we know that you would specially appreciate being able to shelter the bike under cover, as close by as possible. Even better are facilities for washing/drying clothes and bike-care. Some examples of extra friendly MC accommodation are Hotell Dalsland in Ed, Gammelgården s hostel in Bengtsfors and Brålanda s hostel in Brålanda. At all Tourist Offices in Dalsland you will find the brief MC map containing three fine route recommendations varying from 240, 290 and 340 km. Carefully selected by Dalsland motorbike riders they contain tours on bike-friendly, well-maintained roads connecting nice views and friendly places to visit. Maybe you would like a free day from biking so why not try something else such as fishing or even canoeing. PS. Don t miss the windiest road in Dalsland, Brudfjällsvägen between Håverud and Högsbyn. Curvy and hilly (21% slope) it s a real challenge for all bikers. Another fine tour is Route 2218 between Dals Långed and Road 166. Foto: Villa Smile 10

11 GOLF 23 beds. You can hardly live closer to a golf course than this! MELLERUD The golf resort outside Mellerud is beautifully situated at Sunnanå Farm, close to Lake Vänern. Thanks to being built on sandy soil it is playable early in the season. A restaurant and accommodation is available adjacent to the golf course. Great golfing options in Dalsland Three golf courses. That is what golfing visitors to Dalsland may choose from. Or why not all three? In Dalsland, you can play golf in Åmål, Mellerud and Färgelanda. These three courses define the unique Dalsland landscape in different ways. Regardless of your playing level, whether a beginner or a pro, we can guarantee that you will find a suitable course. Golf at Forsbacka. Photo: Leif Sundberg around Lake Forsbacka. The first nine holes have wide fariways with tough water obstacles. The last hole reflects the character of a forest course where challenges lie more in placing your drive and approaching the green from the fairway. Forsbacka Gård consists of several historically interesting buildings FÄRGELANDA Dagsholms Golf Club is laid out in pleasant surroundings adjacent to Lake Ellenö in Färgelanda municipality in southern Dalsland. It offers not only a good game on an exciting 18-hole golf course but also a driving range and a nice short practice area. The main course has three different tees (46, 55 and 58) so you can choose which length of course you want to play. The fairways could be described as fairly wide with some park like holes and some containing many exciting challenges with narrow, tricky woodland sections. It is considered moderately difficult. The comfortable Dagsholm Hotel is just 30 meters away welcome to a golf holiday in southern Dalsland. ÅMÅL Forsbacka Golf Club, 7 km west of Åmål, is said to have one of Sweden s most beautifully situated courses. The golf club has almost everything a golfer could ever wish for featuring a golf shop, the newly renovated club house, driving range, short hole course, cozy hotel standard accommodation and restaurant. Forsbacka s scenic 18 holes park- and woodland course is beautifully situated on and Forsbacka from the 18th and 19th century. Most of the buildings are declared sights of historical interest. The old main building from 1747 has today become the newly renovated golf hotel Jägmästarflygeln. This popular hotel offers 13 uniquely designed rooms with a total of Golf at Dagsholm Åmål s Skicenter in Högheden When it comes to downhill skiing Dalsland hasn t got any Alpine peaks directly but rather good ski slopes at much closer range. Nearby Edelskog, 22km south of Åmål is Åmåls Skicenter, Högheden, a well-run high class ski resort. There are four lifts serving four slopes and a snowpark, a cafeteria with hot dogs and hamburgers and of course it s possible to rent both skiing equipment and snowboards. As soon as the temperature permits 35 snow cannons ensure that there is snow and lighting throughout the facility which guarantees, under normal winter conditions, lovely evening skiing. If you wish to barbecue there are two wind shelters with grill possibilities. Take a look at the ski center s website to get daily updated info on the slopes. Tips: For those who prefer cross-country skiing there are many opportunities throughout Dalsland, for example Tavlans Motionsgård outside Ed. From here you can choose from many well-prepared ski tracks on the vast moor terrain and through the forest. 11

12 HOLIDAY TIPS GOLF FOR FOUR OR MORE For those who want to stay near A TOUR AROUND GRANNSJÖN An experience on horseback Get acquainted with beautiful Dalsland on horseback during a 2-day ride around the Lake Grann. You ride on trails and roads in undulating terrain while enjoying many moments of pure wilderness. The tour offers full board with accommodation in a Sami tent. For groups of at least 5 people Price: SEK 2200 p/p Play golf in a picturesque setting and stay at the friendly Dagsholm Hotell & Golf, only 30 meters from the golf course. This holiday package includes, green fee, welcome drink, 3-course dinner, breakfast, sharing a double room and skincare products from Avera worth SEK 500 Price: from SEK 1195 p/p BASE CAMP: INSPECTION TROLLEY, CANOE & MTB 5 days with 3 different activities Combine inspection trolley, canoe and mountain biking in northern Dalsland and discover the wild and beautiful Dalsland nature in a different and exciting way. Your own muscle power will take you along on the lakes, trails and railroad tracks. You stay 4 nights in your own tent at Silver Lake Camp. Price: SEK 700 p/p More holiday tips available at: CANAL PACKAGE Boat trip on the Dalsland Canal with hotel stay and good food You can stay at Hotel Dalia which is within walking distance of the passenger boats or at Baldersnäs Manor House. Whichever you choose, a 3-course dinner and canal trip taking you through 16 locks and over the aqueduct in Håverud is included. Lunch is served on board the passenger boat and you return on DVVJ s railcar. Price: from SEK 1500 p/p THREE-DAY ACTIVITY PACKAGE Accommodation at Hotell Dalsland Spend a few active days at Hotell Dalsland in Ed and see northern Dalsland by bike and canoe. Accommodation is in nice terrace apartments and you have access to the pool and relax area. The package price includes bike and canoe rent for a day, 2 dinners, 2 packed lunches and 2 nights sharing in a double room with breakfast. Price: from SEK 1690 p/p HARBOUR LIFE AND MC NOSTALGIA Motorcycle tour with accommodation in Brålanda Bring your friends for a MC-tour on our scenic, winding Dalsland roads. This package contains a map with route suggestions, buffet lunch at Sunnanå harbour restaurant, entrance fees to MC museum in Ed and an overnight stay with breakfast, sharing a double room, at Brålanda hostel. The rooms have a shower and WC and bed linen is included in the price. Price: SEK 810 p/p 12

13 HOLIDAY TIPS HIKING PACKAGE IN EDSLESKOG 3 days hiking and relaxation You stay at Edsleskogs Wärdshus on Lake Edslan, situated between 5 nature reserves. The hotel rooms have a balcony and lake view and the price includes 2 nights sharing a double room, breakfast, a two-course dinner and 2 self-guided walking tours with a packed lunch and map. (min. 2 people).. Price: SEK 1750 p/p SHORT DALSLAND S TOUR 3 days with varied cycle routes Starting from Baldersnäs Manor you will experience three days of varied cycling on the Vackra Byars Väg, along the coast of Vänern and past Håverud with the aqueduct. Included is a packed lunch along the way and comfortable overnight stays with dinner. Naturally we deliver your luggage to your destinations. Price: from SEK 3455 p/p ELKS, ADVENTURES AND LANDRACE ANIMALS 2 days family cycle package Take a bike tour from Bengtsfors to Dalslands Aktiviteter where the children get to meet elks, take part in an adventure course and try their luck in panning for gold followed by an exciting night in a Sami tent. The next day setting off on a bike tour to Baldersnäs Manor paying a visit to Baldersnäs Landrace Farm followed by a canal boat tour back to Bengtsfors. Price: from SEK 1190 p/p FISHING DALSLAND LAKE VÄNERN Experience Dalsland s best sport fishing with a professional fishing guide! The type of fishing is varied depending on the season and your preference (belly boat fishing, salmon trolling in Lake Vänern or trolling in freshwater lakes for pike and trout). The package includes one whole days fishing with guide and equipment, 2 nights with breakfast at a hotel sharing a double room, lunch & coffee on the fishing trip and fishing licence. Price from SEK 2495 p/p (based on a group of 4 persons). SKÅLLERUDS FARM AND CANAL TRIP 2 days including a canal, culture x 4, good food and guesthouse accommodation. Experience 2 days filled with culture and nature in Håverud and its vicinity. The price includes a canal tour with picnic on M/S Ericson, entrance to the Canal Museum, a night in a shared double room and dinner at Skållerud Farm. Lunch at Håveruds Brasserie is also included. Price: from SEK 1395 p/p FROM PETROGLYPHS TO A MANOR HOUSE 2 days paddling in the Dalsland Canal s southern part, accommodation in a hostel. Combine two great canoe tours on Lake Laxsjön and Lake Råvarpen with a visit to Baldersnäs Manor and the amazing rock carvings sites in Tisselskog. Accommodation is provided at the hostel Kanalvillan situated right on the Dalsland Canal. Price: from SEK 775 p/p 13

14 BÅTLIV THE DALSLAND CANAL The beautiful lock in Buterud 14 Vi trivs i Dalsland! Lake Råvarpen

15 THE DALSLAND CANAL One of the world s most beautiful waterways Once Dalsland Canal was a vital transportation route for sawn timber and iron ore, today it is a beautiful and popular waterway. The Canal consists of a 250 kilometer long lake system and small channels with magnificent and varied scenery, all linked together by 31 locks divided between 17 lock stations that regulate a height difference of 59 meters. There are 11 guest harbours but also many natural harbours for those who prefer that alternative. The canal dates back to the 1860s when the Swedish-Norwegian union parliament decided to link Dalsland s long, narrow lakes with Värmland and Lake Vänern. The idea was to transport goods by water from the steel and saw mills to Värmland. The task of building the canal was given to Nils Ericson, whose biggest challenge was to take the canal past Håverud waterfall. THE AQUADUCT Due to the prevailing ground conditions, it was not possible to build an ordinary lock mechanism there. The solution was a sheet metal passage suspended over the waterfalls where the boats could pass. And so it came to be for one of Sweden s most remarkable constructions: The aqueduct in Håverud. The aqueduct is 32,5 meters long and the metal plates are connected by 33,000 rivets. The canal was officially opened in 1868 by King Carl XV. M/S Dalslandia on the aqueduct in Håverud. In May 2013 the Aqueduct together with the locks in Håverud and Upperud were declared as listed sites. A very pleasing and important action as it assures that a particularly valuable and unique cultural heritage is preserved for future generations. THE MOST BEAUTIFUL IN THE WORLD For a few decades, the canal served as the transport corridor as originally intended. After that, the railway increasingly took over leaving the canal to pleasure boaters, canoes and passenger boats. Experience a unique journey along the canal through one of the world s most beautiful waterways, travelling through a miniature Sweden. INFORMATION FOR THE SKIPPER In order to plan a dream vacation with your own boat you will need information regarding the channel s open hours, fees and payment arrangements regarding locks, maximum height and depth, guest harbours and so forth. Last year Dalsland canal moved its office location to the historical Kamrersvillan close to the lock in Upperud. Information and contact details can be found at www. dalslandskanal.se How about a cruise on Dalsland canal? A visit to Dalsland without cruising the canal is like being in Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. You don t need to own a boat because there is an abundance of beautiful pleasure boats during the summer season. OUR CANAL BOATS & TOURS A canal tour with passenger boats M/S Storholmen and M/S Dalslandia starts either in Bengtsfors or Håverud the boats go alternately from the two places. During the summer they have scheduled tours and through cooperation with DVVJ Dal VästraVärmlands Järnväg there are also opportunities to vary the round-trip by taking a train one way. M/S Storholmen has operated the canal for 70 years. With Bengtsfors as her home port the boat is fully modernized and equipped to pass through the narrow locks. Even M/S Dalslandia is custom built for Dalsland Canal. Her maiden voyage took place in 1973 and she has room for 110 passengers, 10 more than her elder colleague. M/S Nils Ericson af Håverud offers shorter trips on the canal starting in Håverud and passing the Aqueduct. Trips can include a visit to Högsbyn, where a highly interesting petroglyph (rock carvings) area is well worth the visit. Special theme evening tours are also available. All three canal boats have a fully licensed restaurant on board and can be booked for special occasions outside the summer season. M/S Dalslandia on her way to Buterud 15

16 THE DALSLAND CANAL JOIN US - LET S TAKE A DAY TRIP! A journey on Dalslands canal consists of passing through more than 16 locks. These locks lift vessels 46 meters above Lake Vänern s surface. If the tour is to begin from the south of Dalsland canal it will start in Håverud. Before your boat trip, take time for a stroll through this quaint village to visit the M/S Nils Ericson in the aqueduct THE AQUEDUCT AND ROCK CARVINGS Our journey takes us to the famous aqueduct. The word is derived from Latin s Aquæductus which means the conveying of water. There is a rumor saying the aqueduct is built from the same sheet metal as the Eiffel Tower. Not only is the aqueduct unique in itself this is the only place in all of Europe where road, rail- and waterway meet. After the next lock we travel across the deep Lake Åklång, followed by one of the canal s two manual locks. The journey then continues out on Råvarpen Lake. To the east of the lake lies Högsbyn with Dalsland s largest rock carving area. STENEBY AND BALDERSNÄS After we have passed Råvarpen we approach the first of six locks in Dals Långed; Mustadfors. As we travel through the Dals Långed and Långbron locks we are in the neighborhood of Steneby School of Craft and Design which is an educational department within The Faculty of Fine, Applied and Performing Arts of Gothenburgs University. We are also in the vicinity of Mustadfors Bruk find ourselves out on Laxsjön. To the right of the canal is one of Dalsland s most beautiful places; Baldersnäs Manor, a historical manor surrounded by a huge English park. Here you can enjoy lunch, dinner or refreshments and even spend the night. As we approach the end of our journey we still have one real pearl left. After the two locks in Billingsfors we come to the eighteenth lock where a little red-painted cottage surrounded by luxurious vegetation awaits us. An idyllic symbol of the Swedish summer and probably the canal s most photographed cottage. Canal Museum and Dalslands Center where you will find tourist information and exhibitions, music events, glassblowing, crafts shop and a large souvenir shop. When the boat sets out it will pass through the first gate which is lock number 4 followed by one of the canals few double locks. It is an impressive sight to see the water rush out of the slide gates! AB, which is one of the world s leading manufacturers of horseshoe nails. When we have travelled under the land and railway bridge after Långbron s lock we M/S Storholmen in the 19th lock All that remains of our cruise, before passing the final two locks, is a narrow passage alongside Höljerudsforsen a paradise for fly fishing. After the final locks we come to Bengtsbrohöljen, the boat trips final destination. Once we have docked it is just a short walk to the next adventure which is a railcar back to Håverud. 16

17 Håverud & Dalsland Center One could almost believe that all roads lead to Håverud! For whether you choose to come by car, motorbike, bus, bicycle, camper, train, shanks s pony (on foot) or boat you arrive in Håverud and experience what we proudly call our gem on the Dalsland Canal! Obviously, we want you to familiarize yourself with the unique aqueduct and Nils Ericson s astounding technical solution. What makes the aqueduct so special is the meeting between the waterway, rail and road, a subject that has been photographed by so many visitors over the years. THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF THE KANAL If you want to learn more about the history of Håverud and the Canal make a visit to our lovely Canal Museum or why not take a guided walking tour along the locks and aqueduct. But there are also many other sights, stroll along the quayside, visit some of the friendly shops, see the seasons exhibitions or listen to an afternoon concert. Why not try glass blowing, enjoy a good lunch on the quayside followed by an ice cream in the sun while watching small boats and canoes being channeled through the four locks? LARGE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE Are you looking for an active holiday? Then don t forget to pack your hiking boots when you plan your visit to Håverud Pilgrimsleden (the Pilgrim Trail) is just a stone s throw from the lock area! Here it is possible to hire a canoe and you can buy a fishing licence and hopefully catch a fish for dinner! If, contrary to expectations, the fish are not biting there are several restaurants in the area so you won t need to go hungry! The personnel at the Tourist Information Office located in Dalsland Center, a former paper mill, can advise you on interesting sights and attractions in the area. They also provide help with bookings and information on when you can hop on the next canal boat to experience our lovely landscape from the water. Children can have a relaxing break from Mum and Dad when they attend Fun Summer Camp, organized by the tourist office in high season. COTTAGES & HOSTELS Can t manage to see and do everything in one day? No need to worry. In Håverud there are several options of accommodation that guarantee a good night s sleep, allowing you to see even more of Dalsland another glorious day! 17 The Canal museum

18 PADDLING I DALSLAND CANOEING IN DALSLAND Canoeing in Buterud Photo: Lasse Forsberg The DANO Lake District, otherwise known as Dalsland-Nordmarken s lake system, is unique in many ways. The surrounding area is characterized by a hilly landscape with many deeply cut and narrow clear water lakes. This is not a small territory either! DANO District is an area of almost 10,000 square kilometers and reaches from northern Dalsland up to Årjängs municipality in Värmland. There is a widespread system of innumerables lakes and watercourses linked together by cross connections with Dalslands canal. PERFECLY MADE FOR CANOEING This is by far one of Europe s finest lake systems, rich in nature with clean air and fresh water. DANO- Lake District is created for canoeing. A large majority of the lakes are long and narrow with almost no waves to speak of. When it s coffee time and you need some fresh water, just dip the coffee pot into the lake. The water is crystal clear. Without a doubt canoeists get closer to nature, gliding silently through the water without scaring the moose that come down to the water s edge to quench their thirst or the beavers splashing with their broad tails. Canoeing on Lake Stora Lee Photo: Canodal NATURE CONSERVATION CARD The lake system currently has over 100 prepared campsites, all equipped with wind shelters, open fire pits, wood and environmentally friendly toilets. The service is not only convenient for canoeists but contributes greatly to limit wear and tear in sensitive natural areas. Campsites are made possible by canoeists purchasing a Naturvårdskort, Nature Conservation Card, and by doing so can avail themselves of the camping facilities. By obtaining this card you contribute to sustainable tourism and show that you take a conscious responsibility for our common resources. The Nature Conservation Card can be bought at all tourist offices and canoe rentals. In addition, there are rangers working throughout the lake system which provide information and help canoeists and boaters on their visit. They also sell the Nature Conservation Card. CANOE COUNTRY Canoe Country is the name of 2011 s updated canoe guide. This booklet contains maps, information on camp sites and the areas nature and wildlife. The guide is in Swedish, German and English. Around ten different canoe rental agencies are to be found in the lake area. More information concerning canoe rental can be found at CANOEING IN DALSLAND The guide book Paddla i Dalsland (only in Swedish) is a comprehensive and richly illustrated guide to canoeing, the nature and culture in one of Sweden s most striking and best developed canoeing waters. The described tours vary in length from two to four days, the intention being that you can easily shorten, extend and combine trips as you wish. A canoeing map is sold separately. 18

19 CANOEING The start at Baldersnäs. Photo: Erik Josefsson Dalsland Canoe Marathon+ Beautiful, exciting and a major challenge. It is the Vasalopp for canoeists, the Dalsland Canoe Marathon+, which this year is being held on August 8th for the 12th time. About 700 canoeists from 15 countries normally take part. They all start at the marina by Baldersnäs Herrgård early in the morning. The Dalsland Canoe Marathon+ takes place in the mighty rift valley lakes in the northern part of the lake system. The race passes through the four lakes Laxsjön, Svärdlång, Västra Silen and Lelång. The finishing line is in central Bengtsfors, where a host of fringe events take place on the day of the race for both spectators and the canoeists taking part. The race is for amateurs but has also a class for top level canoeists. The course paddled covers 55 kilometres, which is substantially longer than other long-distance races. Participants can paddle one or two person kayaks, or Canadian kayaks. For elite participants, the course takes around four hours to complete. The oth- ers have 11 hours in which to complete the course. The Canoe Marathon+ is both a challenge and a natural experience. Dalsland is known for its fine canoeing waters, something that many have already discovered. Many canoe marathon entrants return to Dalsland s perfect canoeing waters but as tourists. CANOEING COMPETITIONS Dalsland is the canoe and kayak paddlers paradise. Every year a number of races and competitions are arranged, making paddling a little more fun. Dalslandspaddeln consists of a series of 6 races and then of course, the icing on the cake, is our canoe marathon. 6/6 Svanrännet, 12 km in the lakes Lelången and Ärtingen 13/6 Åmålsloppet, 8 km och 16 km in Lake Nedre Kalven 27/6 Svärdrännet, 10 km in Lake Svärdlång 12/7 Råvarpen, 10 km och 20 km in Lake Råvarpen 8/8 Dalsland Kanotmaraton+, 55 km through 4 lakes 29/8 Bäverloppet, 12 km in Lake Svärdlång 27/9 Ärtingen Runt, 17 km in Lake Ärtingen Info: Bengtsfors Tourist Office +46(0) and on Want to paddle Dalsland Canoe Marathon+ but without the element of competition and stress? Then DKM+Open Water is just right for you! This is a new concept whereby you follow the 55km route of the DKM+ race but paddle at your own pace. All you need is a Start Card, obtainable through Bengtsfors Tourist Office or any of Dalsland s canoe rental agencies. At a cost of SEK 200 this includes a map Elite participants on their way towards Gustavsfors Photo: Julia Blüme DKM+ Open Water with information and three coupons, one for a night on one of the DANO campsites, one for the restaurant Brukshandeln in Gustavsfors and one for the locks in Gustavsfors. The Start Card has space for 3 stamps clearly marked for the start, transit and finish stamp. On completion of the course and on presentation of your fully stamped card at Bengtsfors Tourist Office, you will receive a unique diploma indicating that you have paddled DKM+ Open Water. 19

20 FISHING Trolling on Lake Vänern. Photo: Dalsland Fishing In the calmest of waters swim the largest fish. Or was it the ugliest? Whatever is true, both exist in Dalsland. The biggest pike you can imagine and the ugliest prehistoric fish the Fourhorn Sculpin, which incidentally is the province s fish symbol. Few Swedish provinces can offer good sport fishing like Dalsland. One reason is of course the abundance of lakes in our region. So whether you like spin-fishing, fly fishing, action-packed trolling with a guide after salmon and pike or angling Dalsland has it! Here you will find river fishing, calm ponds, deep fissure valley lakes and not least Lake Vänern s inland lake. The variety and diversity of species are huge. There are around 38 different species just in Lake Vänern. In the north and northwest of Dalsland you will find the beautiful, deep fissure valley lakes with their crystal cold water inhabited by full-grown Pike. You will also find salmon, trout, char, perch and a few of the whitefish species. The western region of our province is great for fishing char, with Lilla Le Lake and the three Kornsjö lakes among some of the best. Spinning, trolling and bait fishing are ideal methods for these lakes. The northeastern and eastern regions around Åmål and Mellerud offer enormous fishing possibilities having access to Sweden s largest lake, Lake Vänern. Its coastline has an abundance of various freshwater species, plus the finest trolling in the region with its full-grown salmon and trout. Ängebytjärnet, 12 kilometers west of Åmål, is a nice and well kept woodland lake where you can catch char and rainbow trout all year round. During the summer season the lake is continually filled with new fish. Jetties, wind shelters and campsites have been conveniently placed around the area. The waters in Dalsland s southern region are often more nutrient-rich and are prime areas for fishing. The lakes Ellenösjön, Viksjön and Långhalmen are great for catching pikeperch and also excellent for fishing carp, tench, chub, orfe, common rudd and many other species. As if that is not enough, the Dalsland canal flows through a large part of the landscape with its 25 km long lake system, linked by canals where many of the previously mentioned lakes and fishing areas are found. 20

21 FISHING Fishing Licence and Fishing Tips The Swedish word Allemansrätten is unique. It is sometimes called the right of public access in the wilderness. It gives Swedes and international tourists freedom to roam the woods and fields, using what nature has to offer completely free with one exception. There are special rules regarding fishing. In most lakes in Dalsland fishing with a lure is permitted if you have purchased a fishing licence but there are exceptions. How is one to know what applies and where? WHERE TO BUY? Contact the nearest tourist office. Some offices sell fishing licences and if not they can offer information regarding where licences are sold. They can also inform visitors as to which rules apply in their particular community. MUNICIPAL AND CANAL FISHING LICENCE A lot of lakes demand that the fisherman buy an individual licence for each lake, there are a few areas in Dalsland where fishing districts have gone together and designed a multi fishing licence that applies to several different lakes. Bengtsfors has a community fishing information guide and licence which allows fishing on 14 municipal lakes. For those who travel the Dalsland canal with their own private boats a fishing licence is available. FISKELAND.SE Welcome to FISKELAND, a Norwegian/ Swedish collaboration of fishing waters both sides of the border. On the Swedish side are Dalsland and southern Värmland and on the Norwegian side Akershus and Östfold counties. Here is a large and varied selection of lakes and streams offering good fishing, great lodgings near to the water, good boats and fine hospitality. Whether you re an avid angler or just want to try your hand at fishing with the family during your vacation FISKELAND is the perfect place! At the website you will find detailed information on the lakes, renting fishing lodges and booking a fishing package for everything from trolling to belly boat fishing. LAKE VÄNERN Vänern is the largest of all five lakes in Sweden. A fishing licence is not needed here when using tackle such as rods and artificial lures. Put and take - Ängebytjärnet Fishing Trips with Experienced Guides Fishing, in enjoyable surroundings should be an adventure, especially if the fish are biting properly. Beautiful nature, memories and excitement are all well and good but most fishermen dream of having their photograph taken with the big catch or even taking the Andy Van Assema with a big pike fish home. This is where our expert fishing guides come into the picture! DALSLAND FISHING Fishing guide Tommy Nerstrand, from Dalslands Fishing, can customize excursions ranging from day trips to a package with accommodations in a cozy cabin by the lake or the convenience of a hotel. Tommy is a full time fishing guide with Lake Vänern as his home water, but he is also an active fisherman in the larger lakes Lelång, Östra and Västra Silen all good fishing spots. If the winds are too severe on Lake Vänern you have the possibility to launch your boat in one of Dalsland s calmer wilderness lakes instead and still catch a trout or salmon! TROLLING Salmon trolling on Lake Vänern is often called the Nordic regions Big Game Fishing - not surprising considering the giant salmon that can be caught here. If the dream of catching the Big One on Lake Vänern is tempting there are tours that depart from Sunnanå, Tösse or Åmål harbours. A trolling tour usually takes about seven hours. All equipment needed is on-board and included in the price. The boat Tommy uses is a McLay 720 Hardtop Cabin Cruiser with plenty of room for four passengers and guide SPORT FISHING DALSLAND About two years ago Andy van Assema started up his company Sportfishing Dalsland. He specializes in organizing spin fishing tours for pike in lakes mostly in eastern Dalsland such as Ånimmen, Ärran, Käppesjö, Edslan etc. and Tösse archipelago on Lake Vänern. Other special arrangements are perch and jerk bait fishing during early spring when the pike swims into the shallow bays to start feeding after a long winter. One of the boats used is a Marcraft, an open cockpit boat accommodating 3 people and guide. It is specially equipped for spin fishing. Both Tommy and Andy offer accommodation and boat hiring packages. They even rent out custom built fishing boats and motors. Photo: Dalsland Fishing21

22 LAKE VÄNERN Unique Lake Vänern Photo Björn Lindblom Lake Vänern is an extraordinary lake in many ways. Let s start with a quick refresher course in geography. Lake Vänern was formed after the most recent glacial period which was approximately 10,000 years ago. When the ice melted, Sweden was covered with a longitudinal body of water creating a connection between the Kattegatt and Bothnian Sea. The rise of land masses caused lakes like Vänern and Vättern to be cut off from the sea. The previous connection with the sea is the reason why there are species in Lake Vänern which normally do not live their entire life cycle in freshwater, an example of this would be the Vänern salmon. Vänern is divided into a west and east region by a strait between Kållandsö on the south and Värmlandsnäs on the north. The west region of the lake is called Dalbosjön and the east region is Värmlandsjön. Lake Vänern is Sweden s largest inland lake, Europe s third largest lake. Here are some more interesting facts: Surface area - 5,650 km 2 Maximum depth 106 m Volume km 3 of water Drinking water 800,000 people Number of islands and skerries 22,000 TIPS FOR LAND LUBBERS Water renewal time 8 to 9 years Birds almost 50 species of sea and wetland birds breed on the lake. Among these are a number of threatened or near threatened birds of prey. This makes Lake Vänern a nationally and internationally important area for many bird species. Fish 38 species of fish live in the lake all year. The most common are the smelt and the vendace. Plants - Lake Vänern s sea-like nature makes the shoreline vegetation unique. Experience Lake Vänern with M/S Vänervåg Would you like to experience Lake Vänern from the water? That s no problem. During the summer Skipper Sten Nilsson offers guided boat rides on Lake Vänern which depart from the marina in Åmål. Four days a week you can travel to The Dalsland Riviera the sandy beach is well worth its name. You might also want to experience their Shrimp-cruise. Another popular tour is Vikingaleden (the Viking Route) between Säffle and Arvika. Photo Björn Lindblom 22