Canoeing in Dalsland
What is so special about paddling in Dalsland? One could maybe call it “wilderness light”. In Dalsland you as a canoeist have the opportunity to experience nature close-up, wild and genuine. Feel like an adventurer, find serenity and experience privacy even though you are only 180 kilometers from Gothenburg and the closest community is not far away.
Shelters, toilets and dry logs for a warming fire are always near and then not to forget the appealing unique nature of Dalsland. 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 Dalsland up to Årjängs municipality in Värmland. There is a widespread system of innumerable lakes and watercourses linked together by cross connections with Dalslands canal.
Perfectly made for canoein
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. It is said that as a canoeist you come closest to nature. Almost silently you glide forward without disturbing the wildlife that surrounds you. You become part of nature.
Photographer: Roger Borgelid
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.
