Åmål – Säffle, Vänerleden
Starting your cycling journey from Åmål’s guest marina is a great idea, where you’ll find convenient parking and restroom facilities at the tourist information office (turistbyrån). The vibrant boat life and the town’s historic district offer a charming setting for the beginning of your ride. For a panoramic view of Lake Vänern, consider visiting the new lookout point on Kungsberget Hill before you embark on your cycling adventure. Åmål has several accommodation options, including the centrally located Åmåls Stadshotell and Örnäs Camping, if you’re planning an overnight stay.
The route heads north out of Åmål on excellent cycling paths. Just outside the town, you’ll come across Berga Bistro, a great spot for those who appreciate well-prepared traditional cuisine. The path then runs parallel to the E45 road up to the Värmland county border. If you’re seeking accommodation near the shore of Lake Vänern, Paradisets Spa, located about 2.60 km from the cycle and pedestrian path between Åmål and Säffle, is an ideal choice. The spa is on Gränsön Island, accessible at the point where the cycle path ends, near Avelsäter towards Dottebol.
Crossing the county border, the route winds into the forest. In Tveta, you’ll pass Linhagen before reaching the Guttane Handelsområde retail park, where you can stock up on groceries before heading south to Duse Udde.
From Guttane, the route leads south to the Krokstad Herrgård manor house. There, enjoy lunch or dinner made with top-quality ingredients by owner Håkan Mattsson, who is known for not compromising on quality. Krokstad Herrgård, featured in the White Guide, also offers hotel rooms for those wishing to stay overnight. It’s about 3 km from there to Duse Udde, which boasts a campsite, cabins, a lighthouse restaurant, a lovely beach, and most notably, a stunning expansive view of Lake Vänern.
The route circles back to Krokstad Herrgård and takes you towards Säffle Gästhamn and the town center. At the guest marina, enjoy watching the boats navigate the locks, indulge in an ice cream, or play minigolf. Near the Säffle Canal, dine beside the lock at the Stenmagasinet restaurant or enjoy a coffee at Kanalcaféet. Additionally, good food and coffee are available at Galna Tuppen and Holgers Konditori, located not far from the canal area.
