Skutberget – Hammarö – Karlstad, Vänerleden
Leaving Skutberget, the bike route heads towards Karlstad. Upon reaching the cycle bridge crossing the River Klarälven towards Central Sjukhuset (central hospital), you’re presented with a choice of two directions. One option is to turn left right after the bridge towards the city center, while the other leads out towards Hammarö Island, circling back to Karlstad city center later.
Opting for the Hammarö route, you’ll pass the hospital and then follow a dedicated bike path. Bird enthusiasts should consider a stop at Mariebergs Strandängar, a seasonally flooded meadow offering picturesque walking paths and birdwatching towers.
After crossing Jakobsbergsbron Bridge, turn right onto Bymiljövägen Road for a short stretch, then right again onto a bike path. At the entrance to this path, there’s a rest area with a table by the river. The route then hugs the river until reaching Skoghall and Lunnaparken, home to Café Klarälven. This café offers prawn sandwiches, coffee, and ice cream, and there are spots to enjoy your own refreshments along this stretch.
Lillängshamnen Harbor: A Bustling Archipelago Hub
Make sure to stock up on groceries in central Skoghall before heading to Lillängshamnen Harbor. A lunch at Lillängshamnens Fiskrökeri, a fish smokehouse, comes highly recommended. Enjoy the scenic Vänern views and vibrant boat life in summer, and savor freshly smoked fish at the restaurant or pick up something from the delicatessen.
From Lillängshamnen Harbor, the route winds towards First Camp Mörudden, offering swimming, overnight stays, and dining at the Udden, Möruddens Brygga restaurant. After enjoying the views and cuisine, your ride continues across Hammarö Island. Along the way, you’ll pass Hammarö Kyrka (church) and Skärgårdsmuséet (archipelago museum), which boasts stunning views towards Karlstad. A walk past Hammars Udde is recommended before cycling towards Karlstad.
Karlstad Inre Hamn: A Summer Jewel
Entering Karlstad, the Vänerleden route merges with the Hammaröleden route. The path leads to the inner harbor, Inre Hamn, a delightful area featuring a lively boating scene, guest marina, numerous restaurants, a microbrewery, and a coffee roastery. It reconnects with Stora Torget square via bike paths.
Water-Abundant Karlstad
Karlstad, with its proximity to both the River Klarälven and Lake Vänern, is an ideal start or end point for your cycling tour. The city offers various accommodation options close to the city center, with 11 hotels within a 14-minute radius of the train station. Water is a central feature in Karlstad, offering numerous swimming spots even in the city’s heart. For boat excursions, consider the popular ‘båtbussen’ boats complementing city bus services from June to August, offering trips on the River Klarälven and into the Vänern archipelago.
Cultural Attractions in Karlstad
In Karlstad, visit the exhibitions of artist and author Lars Lerin at Sandgrund, now an art gallery. Opposite is Värmlands Museum, one of Sweden’s most popular county museums, showcasing international and local cultural exhibitions. Nearby, a delightful playground offers a great experience for children.
For music enthusiasts, Wermland Opera presents high-quality operas and musicals, and history buffs can explore Brigadmuseum by the River Klarälven.
