Days out down the Dalsland Canal

The Dalsland Canal in Sweden is a stunning network of natural waterways and lakes that make for a great boating trip around the country.

Based in the Dalsland province in the south-west of Sweden, the 240 kilometres of waterways, some of the most beautiful in Europe, are all natural apart from ten kilometres which are manmade.

If you are holidaying in the region and wish to enjoy a couple of peaceful days of contemplation, as you are surrounded by green meadows and rolling hills, it is worth taking a boat trip down there.

There are several operators who offer day tours of the waterways, visiting places like the Dalsland Museum off Lake Upperudsholjen, and the striking road bridge-cum-rail bridge-cum-aqueduct at Haverud.

However, if you would rather take a more active approach to meandering down the river, it is worth noting that the Dalsland Canal is a haven for canoeists and kayakers.

A bright, sunny day will see hundreds of people make their way down to the water for a spot of paddling. There are outlets where you can hire canoes, or you can bring your own.

Those who are feeling particularly energetic and are in the region in August should consider the popular Dalsland Canal Marathon.

There are two versions of the race you can enter, covering distances of either 55 kilometres or a less taxing 22 kilometres.

It does cost money to enter, but there is a great team spirit among the racers, and it is of course free to watch.

For more information about the marathon, visit www.kanotmaraton.se
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