Where do you rent a canoe in Dalsland?

Among others at Bootshaus and Dalslands Camping & Kanotcentral in Bengtsfors, both at the lake system around Dalslands kanal. They offer tour and transport suggestions and can help you plan a one-way trip.

Does Dalslands kanotled suit beginners?

Yes – the water is mostly quiet lake water, which makes it forgiving for beginners and families. The distances are large, though, so bring a map and plan day stages to your ability.

May you camp along the route?

Allemansrätten applies, but respect landowners and stay at prepared rest and tent sites where they exist. Make a fire only where it is allowed and not during a fire ban.

← Paddling in

Paddling in Dalsland

Dalsland is often called one of Europe’s finest canoe areas – a wide network of linked lakes where you can paddle from lake to lake for days with only short portages in between.

The heart is Dalslands kanotled and Dalslands kanal, a lake system around Bengtsfors and Mellerud that links large and small lakes into almost endless touring. The water is mostly still lake water, which makes the area suitable even for less experienced paddlers – but the distances are large, so plan for your own ability.

A classic sight along the way is the aqueduct in Håverud, where the canal crosses the rapid in a cast trough. Around the lakes there are plenty of scenic rest spots if you want to turn the trip into a multi-day adventure.

Canoe and kayak you rent locally at Bootshaus and Dalslands Camping & Kanotcentral, both in Bengtsfors in the middle of the lake system, with the option to paddle one way through the canal.

Season

The paddling season runs roughly from May to September. The lake water is stable all summer; check lock times and any route fees before you go out.

FAQ

Where do you rent a canoe in Dalsland?: Among others at Bootshaus and Dalslands Camping & Kanotcentral in Bengtsfors, both at the lake system around Dalslands kanal. They offer tour and transport suggestions and can help you plan a one-way trip.
Does Dalslands kanotled suit beginners?: Yes – the water is mostly quiet lake water, which makes it forgiving for beginners and families. The distances are large, though, so bring a map and plan day stages to your ability.
May you camp along the route?: Allemansrätten applies, but respect landowners and stay at prepared rest and tent sites where they exist. Make a fire only where it is allowed and not during a fire ban.