Start your journey: Bengtsfors – The heart of Dalsland’s natural beauty

Highlights:

Dalsland Canal and Museum: Learn about Dalsland’s iconic canal system and enjoy a relaxing walk along the water. There’s ample parking nearby, perfect for those traveling in campervans.

Lake Lelång: A prime spot for kayaking or fishing, or simply enjoying the views.

Campervan Tip: Look for parking near the canal where campervans are allowed overnight. This lets you wake up to serene water views and begin your day with an energizing lakeside walk.

Håverud: The unique aqueduct and canal bridges

What to See:

Håverud Aqueduct: Marvel at one of Sweden’s most famous engineering feats. This intricate combination of canal, road, and rail bridges over the Dalsland Canal offers beautiful photo ops and a chance to watch boats navigate this complex waterway.

Campervan Tip: Overnight parking is available nearby, allowing you to enjoy quiet evenings near this engineering marvel, without requiring castle accommodations.

Fengersfors and the not quite art community

Highlights:

Not Quite Art Collective: Nestled in an old paper mill, this art community features galleries, workshops, and a lovely café serving local treats. You’ll find ceramics, paintings, and other handmade goods by local artists here.

Nearby Nature Trails: This area is ideal for short hikes, allowing you to stretch your legs after a day of driving and soak in the surrounding nature.

Campervan Tip: Fengersfors has a few designated campervan spots close to the arts center, making it easy to stay overnight and explore more the next morning.

Upperud: A historic canal town

What to Experience:

Upperud 9:9: Although originally designed as a traditional inn, the area around Upperud 9:9 has several scenic places where you can park your campervan and still enjoy views of the building and its surrounding nature. The town also offers short walking trails and spots ideal for picnicking.

Campervan Tip: Upperud has parking areas near the water, where you can unwind by the canal or enjoy a meal while taking in the tranquil scenery.

Baldersnäs Herrgård: An elegant manor surrounded by nature

What to See:

Manor Gardens and Parklands: Baldersnäs Herrgård is a charming estate surrounded by expansive gardens. While staying overnight here might not suit campervans, you can still visit the grounds to enjoy the carefully maintained trails and lush greenery.

Campervan Tip: There are camper-friendly parking areas just outside the estate grounds, making it easy to relax nearby in the peaceful park surroundings.

Lake Vänern: Sweden’s largest lake

Highlights:

Water Activities: Known for its boating and fishing opportunities, Lake Vänern also offers calm beaches and forest trails ideal for a relaxed day. There are several scenic spots with good parking options.

Picnic Spots: Dalsland’s many viewpoints over Lake Vänern make it ideal for enjoying a sunset meal by the water.

Campervan Tip: Designated parking spots around the lake allow you to stay nearby and enjoy early-morning views over Sweden’s largest lake.

Day trips and outdoor activities

Cycling in Dalsland

Many trails throughout Dalsland are accessible to cyclists and range from short beginner routes to more challenging trails. Rent a bike at certain stops or bring one along if your campervan has a bike rack. Look for paths near the canal for a scenic, relaxed ride. Hiking Adventures

From easy walks around Lake Vänern to moderate hikes in the woods around Baldersnäs Herrgård, there’s something for every hiker. Hikers can explore trails ranging from quick 1-2 hour routes to full-day excursions through Dalsland’s untouched forests and hills.

The Ryfylke route: A fjord adventure

• Parking: Look for designated campervan parking areas near major sights to ensure you’re parked legally. Many towns and attractions in Dalsland offer campervan-friendly spaces that allow overnight stays.

• Facilities: Larger towns like Bengtsfors and Håverud may have more accessible camper amenities, such as dump stations and potable water refills.

• Responsible Travel: Always follow local guidelines on waste disposal and parking, especially in natural areas. Keeping the landscape clean helps protect Dalsland’s pristine environment.