Dalsland is famous for its canoeing, with more than 1100 streams and creeks as well as a number of lakes. We have the world’s largest canoe competition with 16 countries attending. For me the best time of day for canoeing is in the evening. In the summertime the sun hardly ever sets which makes it possible for late night canoeing trips. The afternoon breeze settles and the water is calm. Once I paddled next to a moose that was crossing the lake.
One of the most beautiful lakes is Svärdlång, a narrow lake not unlike a Norwegian fjord, with steep cliffs along one side and beaches on the other.
I normally stop and drink coffee in the evening sun, in between canoeing. There are plenty of spots to pick from; Dalsland’s canal system has several camping sites, prepared with camp fire spots and toilets in the middle of the wilderness.
With friends I love to take trips to the area of Bohuslän; from the town Lysekil in the South to Strömstad in the North. We head off on a boat or in a kayak to explore the archipelago and stay the night in a tent right by the ocean. It is a completely different landscape there, with salty waters and bare rocks. One of our favourite stops is the island Sydkoster which is known for its wildlife. What’s more, you will most definitely spot seals on the way.
Locally-sourced food is now the order of the day in Dalsland. I love a visit to the activity centre Dalslands Aktiviteter and the restaurant Stenebygrytan, where they serve game such as beaver, elk and cervid. They also offer activities in the forest, on the lake, and high up in the trees.
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Explore the beautiful waterways and coastline of West Sweden by canoe and kayak with Nature Travels
