Kristinehamn – Otterbäcken, Vänerleden
Starting your cycle journey at Kristinehamn’s guest marina (Gästhamnen) or the Herrgårdscampingen campsite is a great choice. From here, approximately 6 km of excellent cycling paths lead you towards the Vänern archipelago and the famed Picasso sculpture.
Near the Picasso sculpture, it’s advised to park your bike and explore the two lookout points, one facing south and the other north. This perspective shift offers a unique view of the sculpture, contrasting its frontal appearance against the horizon. During summer, the area features an exhibition and infopoint on the nearby land strip, along with an ice cream café.
Beyond the sculpture, the route takes you through a residential zone, dotted with houses and holiday homes, leading to lovely swimming spots like Fyrudden and other quaint beaches. The journey continues along Jutviksvägen and Nya Magasinsvägen, eventually becoming Possebergsvägen, a charming gravel path surrounded by picturesque Scots pine forests. Jutvikens Badplats is a favored local swimming spot. Further south lies Värnanäs and the Kungens Rastplats rest area.
The southern road snakes through pastoral and forested landscapes, with vegetation indicating proximity to Vänern. Soon, you’ll encounter Revsands Familjecamping, offering both overnight camping and a popular sandy beach for swimming. Just 1.5 km south, a detour leads to Hults Sommarhem, featuring a café and swimming spot. Alternatively, visit Vike, a village untouched by past agricultural reforms, offering a glimpse into history. Here, Sörgården farm shop sells organically raised beef, lamb, and wild boar.
About 6 km south of Hult, you can head towards Baggerud or continue straight to Edskorset. The route then veers onto the Nötön peninsula, passing scenic spots like Medhamn and Hamnudden. A detour to Dyrön’s nature reserve or the later Nötön-Åråsviken reserve offers walking trails and stunning Vänern views. Near Nybble, the stone church Visnums-Kils Kyrka, dating back to 1756, showcases medieval artifacts, including a late 1400s altarpiece and a 1200s Mary statue.
After Visnums-Kils Kyrka, the route takes you past deer enclosures, creating an exotic atmosphere. A stop at Hygns Vilt farm and game shop is recommended. Further on, turn onto Säbyvägen Road towards Sund, and consider a stop at Bengtsgårds Badplats, complete with a barbecue area, jetty, and spacious grassy grounds. At Värmlands Säby Gård, children can explore a maze in the park, and nearby Nybble’s village store offers groceries.
Caution is advised when crossing the busy road 26.
Beyond road 26, the route continues through forested areas on a gravel track, crossing a draisine track. At a three-way junction, you have the option to head towards road 204 and Käbberud 1 or continue past Frosterud towards Grunnebacka to explore the area and visit Rudskoga Kyrka, home to Värmland’s oldest Mary statue. Nearby Gottbols Badplats offers a serene lake setting.
Before reaching Rudskoga Kyrka, a gravel cycle route runs parallel to the busy road 204. For safety, use this path between Revsten and Östra Bjurvik. After road 204, detour towards Södra Råda. Keep an eye out for flea market signs (“Loppis” or “Loppmarknad”) on the way to Gullspång. A left turn at Kronkärrs Fårgård leads to a farm with a wool handicraft workshop and accommodation options.
In Södra Råda, the Vänerleden route aligns with the Skagern Runt cycle route, with Lake Skagern to the left, bordering Närke Province, Värmland, and Västra Götaland County.
Near Södra Råda, a detour leads to the site of the old church, now featuring a reconstructed medieval timber church, rebuilt using traditional methods. Guided tours are available on summer weekends. Nearby, a heritage center offers a restful spot.
Back on the Vänerleden route, head towards Gullspång near the new church. Soon, you’ll pass Södra Råda Kulturhus, a cultural center in the former Missionskyrkan church, with current exhibitions signposted.
In Gullspång, after crossing a bridge, follow Kraftverksgatan Road to see Fortum’s power plant. A nearby salmon ladder alongside the Gullspångsälven River hosts unique salmon and trout populations, with spawning typically occurring in October and November.
Gullspång also features Frans G Bengtsson’s memorial library, honoring the local writer known for “The Long Ships.” Notable locals include singer Linda Bengtzing and footballer Olof Mellberg.
In central Gullspång, you can restock supplies and choose your route. For a quicker journey, take the asphalted former railway path to Otterbäcken. If time allows, detour past Amnehärads Kyrka church towards Lake Vänern for picturesque countryside views.
In Otterbäcken, explore local shipping history with a detour to a small shipping museum or the railway museum in an old platelayer’s cabin. The guest marina and a seafarers’ church memorial highlight the area’s maritime heritage.
For a unique experience, consider staying at Storön Gård Farm in Otterbäcken’s archipelago, offering accommodation and a boat ride. Otterbäckens Sjökrog and other restaurants offer lakeside dining.
Further south, the family-friendly Barfotens Camping offers overnight stays, featuring a sandy beach, playground, and kiosk.
