Welcome to Årjäng

Welcome to Årjäng
If you are looking for adventures you have come
to the right place! The municipality of Årjäng has
something to offer everyone. How about canoeing
in our beautiful lake system, take a quiet walk in
our fantastic nature or challenge yourself in
Glaskogens Naturereserves hiking tracks - the
choice is yours. We can also offer you a different
way of travelling, pedal a trolley between Årjäng
and Bengtsfors.
Fishing is something that suits everybody, no
matter if you are experienced or if you are just
looking for a moment of relaxation. We can not
guarantee a haul but the chances are good.
If you are interested in sports, we can e.g. offer a
nice golf course, tennis courts, public swimming
baths, sports centers, gyms, and illuminated skiand jogging tracks.
Those of you who are looking for the ultimate challenge can register for a survivalcourse, mountain-climbing or rappelling. You will probably find that your capacity is
larger than you think! This is just a selection, please contact us for further
suggestions. There are many tourist companies in the area that can help you to get
the most out of your stay in Årjäng.
In the municipality of Årjäng there are about 10 000 inhabitants and it consists of
four population centers; Årjäng, Töcksfors, Lennartsfors and Svensbyn. The
municipality of Årjäng has an expansive and a differentiate industry and is known for
manufacturing of candy, advertising signs and advanced products within modern
electronics and mechanics. The name Årjäng is first mentioned in books as early as
the 15th century.
The Troll in Årjäng
The idea of a Troll in Årjäng comes originally from a committee for the youth, called
Start - 68. A well known singer in Sweden had composed a song named
"Årjängtroll" back in 1971, and the idea of a Troll with a tray in its hands to use as a
scene for entertainment in the summertime, was developed. The troll is 8meters
high and the feet measures 3,5meters.
A different rail adventure is waiting to be explored!
Trolley-riding is a different and exciting adventure for the whole family. Long,
isolated stretches, far from roads and traffic, can be enjoyed with a minimum of
effort. The route is 50kilometers and stretches between Årjäng and Bengtsfors.
Here the nature is at its best with forests and glittering lakes. If you want, you can
combine your trolley ride with canoeing.
Sillerud
Sillerud is the largest parish of the municipality of Årjäng. Like the rest of the
municipalities it offers a beautiful and varying landscape.
North from the European road E18 you will find, for miles around, forests dotted with
placid lakes and tarns, many of which are situated within the Nature Reserve of
Glaskogen. To the South from E18, towards the lakeside of Östra Silen, you will
travel through a settled countryside of small holders with villages, farms and crofters
cottages. Furthermore, the beautiful waterway Dalslands Kanal (The Canal of
Dalsland) stretches its north-eastern branch into Sillerud at the locks in Krokfors.
1. The Water tower in Sandaholm
In Sandaholm you may visit the water tower. This is a relic from the years 19281954, when the railway connected the town of Åmål with Årjäng. At that time the
trains were pulled by steamlocomotives that needed to refill water two times on their
69 km long journey.
2. Träsnidaren i Noretjärn, Snarkil.
Woodcarver Leif Andersson is an artist, who produces reliefs,
sculptures, candlesticks and ornaments. Many of his works now
adorn churches and other public rooms around Sweden. Leif is a
versatile artist who takes orders from both companies and private
persons. Leif has also designed the official souvenir for Årjäng.
3. Årjängs Golfcourse
Årjängs Golfklubb offers an 18-hole course. It is
beautifully situated at the lake Svensbysjön 10km
east of Årjäng. The course has a clubhouse with
a restaurant and if you want to spend the night
they can offer you cottages.
4. Gerd’s Keramik (Pottery) Sjösala
Here you can find exhibitions of Gerd
Wahlström’s products as well as other artists’
works. One of Gerd’s specialities is Engobe
paintings on pottery. She has also made a
Sillerud candlestick, which is a nice souvenir to
bring back home. Further, you can buy products
of other local craftsmen here. Sjösala has a nice
garden with straw handicraft in a pavilion, a large
greenhouse and a pavilion on the lake. It is
beautifully situated at Svensbysjön.
5. Welcome to Studio Skogen
Studio Skogen is centrally situated
"out in the wilds", approx. 30km from
Årjäng, Åmål and Bengtsfors, at the
eastern shore of lake Östra Silen.
Here Ylva Lundin Andersson, has
her own production, exhibition and
sale of ceramics and pictorial art.
6. The Church in Sillerud
The church in Sillerud is a white stone church and was built in 1888. It is remarkable
because of it’s octagonal form. The clock tower is placed in the center and
surrounded by four small side towers. There are only a few similar churches in our
country. Architect is C. V Langlet.
7. Silleruds Folk Museum
Silleruds Old Homestead Museum was built in Snarkil in 1812. In 1947 it was
moved to Svensbyn in the same parish. The second floor was built in 1858. Besides
the main building there are barns from Egenäs and a store house from Häljebyn as
well as a cottage from the vicarage of Sillerud. The homestead museum of Sillerud
has several objects which belonged to the famous preacher and missionary Peter
Fjellstedt (1802-1881). At his birth-place in Fjällane a monument has been built.
8. The old Churchyard in Sillerud
The old church in Sillerud is designed by the former vicar Olav Dahle and was
situated here until 1891. A campanile was built in 1970. The bell, dated 1662,
comes from the old church. The campanile has a scheduled watch that makes the
bell toll at 6.30 p.m. every summer evening. It is also a beautiful spot. The old
church yard is cared for and is also used for outdoor church services. On the south
side of the wall there are ancient graves from the Iron Age. These can however be
difficult to find.
9. Ture Alfredsson
Ture Alfredsson, a small holder in the village of Gängene who was born in 1896,
produced in his lifetime several remarkable sculptures. Ture was a man who never
threw anything away. He created new things from all his collected material. The
best preserved sculptures have been gathered and are now to be seen at the
woodcarver Leif Andersson.
10. The Memorial of Peter Fjellstedt
The memorial was erected by Silleruds
homestead association around 1940, in
remembrance of Peter Fjellstedt (18021888), a theologian and missionary. The
memorial stands where he was born and
raised. Remnants of the cottages´
chimney are still to be seen. Fjellstedt was
one of the pioneers of the Swedish
Church Mission in foreign countries.
11. Erstatallen
West of lake Stora Bör, a 300 year old pine, protected by law, which holds ten cubic
meters of wood, is to be found. The tree, which grows 500m north of Camp Grinsby,
is still green and robust. Legend says that a bride who was about to get married got
second thoughts and ran to the pine to meet her true love.
Accomodation in Sillerud:
3. Årjängs Golfklubb, +46 573 77 11 44 www.arjanggk.nu
12. Sandaholms Restaurang & Camping, +46 573 77 10 80 www.sandaholm.com
13. Järnsjöns Camping, + 46 573 77 10 45, +46 570 102 06
14. Camp Grinsby, +46 573 420 22 www.campgrinsby.se
15. Noretjärns Stuguthyrning, +46 573 77 11 77 www.noretjarn.se
16. Silleruds Station Cafe & Butik +46 573 401 00
17. Mitt i Naturen, +46 70 536 88 09 www.mittinaturen.se
Silbodal/Årjäng
Silbodal is another parish in the municipality. It stretches from the shores of Västra
Silen to the forests at the border to Glava. Silbodal is first mentioned in year 1396.
1.Tegen
Southeast of Årjäng you will find Tegen that has very
interesting vegetation. It is well worth a visit.
Road description: From Årjäng you drive towards
Sommarvik. Continue and turn right towards Risviken.
Continue 10km and you will see a sign with Tegen
heading to the left.
2. Silbodals Folk Museum
The establishment consists of a manor house, a store
house, a baker house, a barn, a wood shed and a
soldiers croft. All the buildings have been moved from
other locations. The manor house is a two-storeyed
house from Görsbyn in the parish of Holmedal. The
ground floor is from the 18th century. The stair case, built
of boards on the gable, is characteristic for this area. You can also see furniture,
tools etc there. A memorial to the local homestead investigator Edvard Rönnfors
can be seen here.
3. The Trotting track in Årjäng
In Årjäng you will find one of the most
beautiful trotting-tracks in Sweden. Every
year there are several racing days arranged
here, the peak of which is the V75 race in
July.Here trotting is not only a sport, but a
mere lifestyle that has put its distinctive
character to the whole district. It is
customary that whole families go to the
trotting races for an outing.
4. Nordiska Travmuseet
The Nordic Trotting Museum is driven by a non-profit association. It is beautifully
situated at the trotting track along the E18 east of Årjäng.
It is the only trotting museum of its kind in northern Europe and was opened in
1998. Here you find Hall of Fame with a large number of national and nordic
character in the collections as well as coachmen dresses, a library connected to
harness racing, a museum shop and a cafeteria.
There is also the possibility to bet on horses since we are a venue with a largescreen TV-set.Our large wooden horses are popular for a "ride".
The site is adjacent to the stables at the Årjäng race track where there is an exciting
playground.
5. The old Court House of Långelanda
This is the oldest courthouse in Sweden. It was built 1801-1804, and was in use
until 1935. Next to the court house there is also a small prison- and archive building.
The interior is interesting partly beacause in the courtroom the judge sits opposite
the semicircular bench of the jury-members.
Along the main street in the village Långelanda you will see many well preserved
houses, in these the judge and the members of the law was accommodated during
court sessions, which sometimes could go on for weeks.
In the middle of the 19th century a very famous trial was held, against a vicar of the
Silbodal parish. He was accused for having murdered some of the poor parishioners
by poisoning sacramental wine. He was later charged and found guilty and
sentenced to death, but he took the law in his own hands when he hung himself in
his cell. He thought that the persons he had murdered were a burden to his parish.
In those days the parish of Silbodal was a very poor parish.
Accmodation in Årjäng:
6. Best Western Hotel, +46 573 130 59 www.hotelarjang.se
7. Årjäng Camping och Stugor, Sommarvik +56 573 120 60 www.sommarvik.se.
8. Ainas Stugor, +46 70 348 59 34, www.ainas-stugor.webnode.se
Blomskog
Blomskog is situated between the lakes of Västra Silen, Lelång
and Stora Le. The area is known for its large number of lakes and
lake systems. Many ancient monuments have been found and give
an indication that the area was inhabited at an early age.
Population statistics of the parish shows that Blomskog had a
population of 2200 in the 1880:s. After this it began to drop,
primary due to famines, unemployment and immigration to
America. The present population of Blomskog amounts to
approximately 580 inhabitants and is at the moment quite steady.
1. Borgåsgubben (The Borgås man)
In Källtegen you will find Borgåsgubben. It is a stone statue which can be seen
widely around, rising more than three meters high, on top of the small mountain
Borgåsberget. Nobody knows for sure when and why it was built but a common
belief is that it was built by soldiers stationed in region during the war against
Norway under the reign of Karl XII. Borgåsberget is unusual in the sense that its
standing free, surrounded on all sides by cultivated land. To celebrate the
millennium, the inhabitants of Blomskog gave the man a wife on the opposite
mountain - Stenfrun (The Stone Wife).
2. The Källtegen Village
The buildings of Källtegens village are all of old age and are used as background
scenes in the play Amerikabrevet (The letter from America).
2. Amerikabrevet (The letter from America)
A local play about the immigration to America. The play is
based on letters which were received from Anders Nilsson
who had left Blomskog in 1866. The letters have formed
the background for the story. The actors are locals.
3. The Church of Blomskog
The present church was built in 1929. It is a white plastered nave
building with slate roof and it has a tower with a copper roof rising
30 meters above the ground. The sanctuary has a triptych with
paintings made by the artist Olle Hartsberg. From the entrance to
the church there is an impressive view of the new and old cemetery
with the beautiful lake Blomskogstjärnet in the background.
3. The Parish Store House
The parish store house is situated in a pine grove next to the Blomskog Parsonage.
The purpose of this storehouse was to store grain usually oats for the poor people
of the parish in bad times.
4. The Folk Museum of Blomskog
The homestead is located in Näresbyn and has a beautiful view towards
Blomskogstjärnet (a mere) and the church. It was built in the 1880:s by the
congregation of Blomskog and until 1984 it was used as their mission hall. Later the
same year they gave it to the local society as a gift.
5. Valekullen and Ofredsboa
In times of war or trouble, fires were lit here to warn the inhabitants. From this hill
you have a wonderful view over the settled country and over four lakes.
Ofredsboa is a place with small caves. In times of war between the Danish,
Swedish and Norwegian people, children and women hid in these small caves
surrounded by woods. There is a walking trail to Ofredsboa and Valekullen.
6. The Ed flour mill
The first mill in the rapids of Ed was built in the 18th century. It was destroyed by
fire in the 1880s. A second mill was built at the same location. It was used to grind
both cereals and fodder. Some of the old equipment used back in the old days can
still be seen at the Ed flour mill. There is also a small power plant in Ed.
Accomodation in Blomskog:
8. Ekeby Camping +46 573 319 00 www.ekebycamping.se
Youthhostel Folsom +46 573 31999 www.folsom-se.com
Lennartsfors
As early as in the 16th century there was a water mill in Ränkeforsen. There are
notes from the 17th century regarding a saw mill driven by waterpower.
Lennartsfors became the name of the place in 1839 when Lennart Uggla together
with Gustaf Ekman was licensed to establish an ironwork in the area. The output of
the ironwork included a variety of products such as: boats, mortars, pots and pans,
etc. The ironwork was closed in 1877.
In 1886 Lennartsfors flourished again as one of Swedens first wood grinding
industries was established here, on the initiative of Niklas Biesert.
1. Skalgrusbankar (shell gravel embankments)
At Sandviken, about 5km southwest of Lennartsfors by the lake Stora Lee, there are
shell-gravel embankments of great scientific value. They are 130m above sea level
and the highest situated shell-gravel embankments in western Sweden.
2. The church in Trankil
The Church in Trankil, most probably medieval, is
standing beautifully on the waterside of the lake
Lelång. Here you will find several interesting items
such as a 13th century baptismal font in soap stone.
Above the font, on the shelf on the south sanctuary
wall surrounded by candles, is a linden Madonna
sculpture, also from the 13th century. There are also
other objects which may be of interest.
3. Lundvie Keramik
Lundvie make small
series of utility goods in
lead-free stoneware of
high quality with a plain
and simplistic design, with the old pottery tradition as a
basis.
4. Slussen in Lennartsfors
The locks have been in service since 1868 and they are "burst into the mountain".
The lock stairs consists of three locks with 7,5m difference in level. Above the lock
stairs there is a bascule bridge which crosses the canal.
5. Amundserud in Lennartsfors
The Folk museum in Lennartsfors is called Amundserud. Here you can get tips of
other sights and look at Amundseruds collections.
6. Lapp-Elisas Quilts
After a couple of years as a quilt collector, Lapp-Elisa decided in 2001 to start her
own quilt-shop on the internet. Lapp-Elisas Quilts lies in the center of Lennartsfors,
in the old school beside the guest harbor.
7. Wanjors vävstuga
Here Wanjor produces and sell woven rag-carpets and cloths. She also embroider
and sell old-fashioned tapestry and patterned gloves.
In her shop you will also find products from other local craftsmen such as jewellery,
wooden boxes etc.
8. Gittas verkstad
Unique craft in both design and technique.
Gitta weaves shawls and gobelins and paints pictures with a special tempera
technique. All her products are unique. The shawls are made of silk, mohair or other
especially chosen materials. The shawls are offered in a wide spectrum of colours.
You can also order your own shawl in your desired material and colour. The
Swedish nature is a big source of inspiration for Gitta in both design and colours.
Accomodation in Lennartsfors:
9. Bergstugan (rooms) +46 70 345 04 99 www.bergstuganlennartsfors.se
10. Elovsbyns Camping och Kanot +46 70-680 56 98 www.elovsbyn.com
Karlanda
The parish of Karlanda is one of the eleven parishes in municipality of Årjäng and
was mentioned for the first time in 1344 as Kaflanda sokn.
1. The Stonebridge in Hämnäs
The stone bridge, east of the country store, is built in wedged stone and was
finished probably in 1775.
2. The Church of Karlanda
The church was built on the Bjärnekullen 1776-78. The baptismal font and one of
the church bells are from the 13th century. The altarpiece and the chandelier (1737)
comes from the old church in Stommen, as well as the Holy Communion silver
which is from 1766.
3. The Old Churchyard in Stommen
In the middle of the 18th century people were complaining about the size and the
condition the church was in. In 1777 the church was pulled down and a new one
was raised on Bjärnekullen. Every year on Midsummer Day a memorial service is
held in the open air at the old churchyard.
4. Karlandamon
100 meters away from the old churchyard, along road 627, there is a road up on
your left hand side. It leads to Karlandamon, an old place of execution. During the
18th century four people were executed here, one man and three women. The most
common crime was infanticide. A monument is raised here. It is not possible to
travel on the road by neither cars nor regular bicycles, only mountain bikes!
5. The giant "Stone Pots "
During the time when the inland ice melted away gigantic waterfalls were created in
some places. The stones that then came in rotation burrowed their way down to the
bedrock and created giant pots. The gigantically pots were discovered in 1973 when
a landowner wanted to build a forest road for cars. The road is in a bad shape and
closed for motor traffic, but bicycles are allowed.
6. The Chalets in Håltebyn
The chalets are placed in a half-circle in the woods of Hålteby and were used until
1935.
7. The Folk Museum in Karlanda
The folk museum in Karlanda is called Kloppa. Kloppa is a yard from the 1820s. It
has a great collection of old items and is well preserved. Kloppa folk museum was
built by Erik Andersson and his wife Karin Rasmusdotter. Several cultural buildings
were moved to the folk museum which can be seen there.
8. Gittas Glas
Birgitta Gustafsson Hvittfeldt lives in an old family estate
in Smolmark. Smolmark is a small hamlet between
Årjäng and Arvika in western Värmland. She is a
glassmaker. She uses a method called fusing where you
melt the glass together in an oven.
Holmedal
1. "Karl XII stuga" (cabin)
When Karl XII prepared his campaigns against Norway in 1716 and 1718, he stayed
over the night in Holmedals vicarage several times. He probably stayed in this
cabin, which at the time was located on another place next to today's cabin. A
portrait of Karl the XII and a few ancient household articles are kept in the cottage.
2. The church in Holmedal
The church in Holmedal was built during the years 1854-1857. The old church was
sold on an auction for 123 Swedish Crowns. Nowadays it's only a monument left
and its shows where the old church once stood. The beautiful white front door to the
churchyard is still there.
3. Holmedals Folk Museum
The folk museum consists of two buildings, both are dwelling-houses. The first
building has two flats with a simple planning and it has been transferred from
Såviken. The house is modernized inside. The other house, the so called
Svenstuga from Tveten, is a single flat cabin with two rooms.
4. Graveyard in Selen, Holmedal
The graveyard consists of one mound and 5 round piles of stones. The place was
probably used as a graveyard of a village or farm nearby during the Iron Age (400500 A.D). No actual findings are known, but the report from N G Djurklou tells, that
in the beginning of the 19th century, they found stone jars, cinders and burned
bones in the largest gravemound.
5. Ancient Stronghold remnant in Fölsbyn
The remnant is situated on top of Borgåsen, a hill about 250 m west of Fölsbyn.
Here was once a stronghold and it was made of low stone- and earthwalls in northnortheast and south direction. The steep mountain side to the west forms a natural
defense. The entrance seems to bee in the south wall.
This kind of stronghold was probably used as defense - and refuge place for the
local population. The dating is uncertain, but there are findings from other places in
the country of similar strongholds, which date to the Iron Age (400-500 A.D) Many
stronghold remnants in Värmland are however situated in areas where findings from
the Bronze Age seem to dominate and this can point to the fact that this stronghold
could be considerably older. In some cases they are believed to have been in use
until the Middle Age.
The mound of stones on top of the hill is most likely a grave; it is believed to date
back as far as to the Bronze Age or even the Iron Age. North of the stronghold there
are stonewalls and mound of stones, these are remnants of a later period.
Accomodation in Holmedal:
6. Foxen Resort & Activities +46 70-595 42 90 www.foxenresort.com
Töcksfors/Västra Fågelvik
1. Ögårn in Dusserud
This old farm dates back to 1819 and it is now a museum. Here you can see how
the people in this area lived 100-150 years ago. The farm with farmhouse and barns
stands exactly as it was left in 1957, when the last owner Maria Stina Aronsson
gave it to Västra Fågelviks congregation on the condition that it will be preserved
and held as a museum. In the farmhouse you will find a lot of old furniture and other
inventories and on the second floor you’ll find a typical clothes chamber with
beautiful old costumes. The shed is filled with old tools and objects used back in the
days. On the door we can still see crosses painted with tar to protect the inhabitants
against the evil. The oldest house on the farm is the barn from 1777, the stable and
cow shed and pigsty dates back to the beginning of the 19th century.
2. Töcksfors old wooden church with belonging church stables.
At the beginning of the 19th century the old church was so dilapidated that they had
to replace it with a new one. In 1819 the new church was built in the same place as
the former and the ground plan was also the same; a cruciform church which was
the common type of churches in Värmland in the 18th century. Inside the church
there are ceiling paintings and an altar which top is from 1730 and the lower part
from 1822. The baptismal font is an unusual type from the middle of the 12th
century and it is made of soapstone. The font is one of the oldest in Värmland.
Among other things there is a chalice in the church from the 14th century. There are
also church stables which are still extant and they are well worth seeing.
3. Töcksfors Folk Museum - Nordmarksstugan
The museum consists of a manor house, a small timbered cottage, as well as a
barn used for flax - drying. The buildings have been moved to their present place,
the manor house from Tomta in Östra Bön and the barn from Ivarsbyn. The small
cottage was built on the site in 1912, because more storage room was needed. The
foundation Nordmarksstugan which administer the buildings has collected a good
sample of old things and tools from the surroundings. The foundation was grounded
in 1911 (perhaps one of the oldest in the area).
4. The church in Västra Fågelvik
The church in Västra Fågelvik was built during 1859-1860. It is beautifully situated
on a cape in the lake Foxen.
5. Mangsgården
Mangsgården is situated on the lake Foxen, and is owned and runned by the
Mission community in Töcksfors. In 1954 Frank Mangs came to the farm for the first
time. Mangs bought the farm in 1955 because it was a beautiful place where he
could get inspiration. The little cabin with a sauna was built the same year, and is
known as his writing cabin.
On top of the sauna there's a room where Mangs wrote many of his works. The
farm is a memory of Frank Mangs and his lifework and is an opportunity for the
public to study the collected articles from 1916 to today – an opportunity to read
about his work and to see his literary publications.
6. The car cemetery in Båstnäs
This is a paradise for those who love cars. This is a place in the middle of the
woods where the road is lined by cars in every imaginable model. There are cars
from the 1930s but most of them are from the 1940s and 1960s
The Escape Route (Karl XII´s road) & The Church Road
In the border district between Sweden and Norway there are a lot of interesting
hiking trails. Some were used as escape routes during the 2nd World War. There is
also a road which is called the church road. No one knows for sure how old this
road is, but it’s probably from the 17th century. You had to go to the church for
several reasons. Partly there was church obligation, but they also conveyed
important messages and news.
At the Tourist Information in Årjäng you can buy a map that will give you detailed
route descriptions.
Accomodation in Töcksfors
7. Gränshotellet, +46 573 215 00, www.granshotellet.se
8. Sandvikens Camping, +46 573 211 40, www.sandvikenscamping.se
9. Töcksfors Rumsuthyrning, +70 531 20 25
10. STF Turistgården, +46 573 210 40 www.turistgarden.com
11. Ulevikens semesterstugor, +70 310 73 98, www.brastugor.se
Östervallskog
Östervallskog in the northwestern part of the municipality of Årjäng is a beautiful
area enriched with lakes and water systems.
1. The old Church Village in Stommen
Until 1874 the church stood here in Stommen. Today remains only the old
churchyard, where you still can see iron tombstones in the shape of crosses. The
old storehouse, used to keep corn for the poor, lies south of the churchyard. Nearby
you can see the so called "Karl den XII - stone", as a memorial from the visit of King
Karl XII. Not far from here you can see the Kyrkeby lake with its green water, also
called “the green lake”.
The beautiful channel
The lakes Töck, Strömmen och Östen create the northern part of the Dalsland
Canal. Töck and Östen are united through a narrow and beautiful channel,
surrounded by overhanging trees. A paradise for canoe and boat tourists, but also
for car and bicycle tourists. The idyllic country road with two old swing bridges goes
partly along the channel.
The channel opened 1914 and was at the time an important communication trail for
the people in Östervallskog. Timber was transported with help of the boat "Herbert",
passenger traffic was lively and the grocery stores got their goods delivered on the
channel bridges.
2. The Church in Östervallskog
The old church in Östervallskog was built during the years 1868-73 and was
consecrated 1874. It was however destroyed by a fire in 1983.The present church
was built 1985. Among a few inventories preserved from fire are a sacramental cup
from the year 1733 and a paten from 1746. All other objects are of later dating,
several are donated. Before 1868 there was a church in Kyrkobyn, likely already
from as early as the 14th century.
3. Östervallskogs Folk Museum
Was started in the 1930s when Ingeborg Alfredsson gave her house to the society,
the beautiful 16th century building was turned into an Folk museum. The society
has renovated the house carefully and it´s now a popular gathering place in
Östervallskog. Midsummer, Crafts fairs, barbeque nights, concerts and dances are
arranged. Östervallskogs Crafts Group has many skilled craftsmen that represent
various techniques such as - weaving, embroideries, wood carving etc.
Accomodation in Östervallskog:
4. Nature Resort Värmland: +46 70 558 78 27 www.naturevarmland.se
Glaskogen
Experiencing Gla Forest in Western Värmland will be one of the highlights of your
life if you like the outdoor life. This is true whether you are a hiker, fisherman, a
canoeist or a kayaker, or if you just like animals and nature. Not only is the area one
of the most beautiful in Värmland, with rich and varied animal and plant life – there
are miles of hiking paths and canoeing routes for both long and short trips. If you
want to experience the outdoor life, Gla Forest is the place for you!
Whether you want to hike, fish, or canoe, the Gla Forest Card is a must. The Card
doesn’t cost much and is available in two versions: one for fishing and the other one
for using the Gla Forest’s other facilities, such as cabins, shelters, rest areas, and
trails.
1. Sjöänds Fortlet
The fortlet is a defense establishment from World War 2, situated in the Glaskogen
Nature reserve. During the war many defense establishments were built near the
Swedish border to prevent an eventual invasion. The establishment was to prevent
a military advance towards Glafsfjorden. This fortlet is one of the largest and best
kept in Sweden. The fortlet enclosed about 30 000m2 and all over there are well
preserved safety devices.
2. Kalleboda Mill
A mill ruin from the turn of the century consisting of four high stone columns and
walls. It is situated in Kalleboda, by a high waterfall, in the stream that flows from
Stora Skärvattnet to Gränsjön. Close by the mill ruin there are still remnants of the
miller housing. In the rapid there are remains of the old flume used by timber
driving.
3. Bu´sten
Busten is a big rock with a peculiar shape, you can see it
between S. Ström and Kalleboda. There are always fresh
flowers or branches by the rock.
The legend tells, that in the early 19th century, a woman
and her illegitimate child were, during Christmas time
everywhere, denied shelter. On Christmas day they were
found frozen to death sitting beneath the large rock.
Accomodation in Glaskogen
4. Glaskogens Camping & Infocenter, +46 570 440 70
www.glaskogen.se
5. Mitt i Naturen, +46 70-70 536 88 09
www.mittinaturen.se
The lake system
Dalsland – Nordmarken’s lake system is an area of almost 10 000 km2 with
uncountable lakes.The area stretches from the north of Dalsland to Årjäng’s
municipality. Dalsland-Nordmarken is one of Europe’s finest lake systems with
clean air, fresh water and rich nature. Here innumerable lakes and watercourses
suitable for canoeing are waiting.
Paddle across the water and find your way between islands and tongues of land.
Find a camping site for the night where you can experience the serenity of nature.
Maybe you will hear the black-throated diver’s cry sound through the summer night;
maybe you will see an elk at the waterside. Depending on the weather, the wind
and the length of the daily laps, the paddling can be a test of strength or just
pleasant relaxation. Perhaps because there is very little canal but much more of
long, crystal-clear lakes, canoe is an excellent means of conveyance. There can of
course be a few lifts during a week of canoeing, but you will not have to transport
the canoe for long distances.
DANO Lake district
To make things easier for canoeists and landowners we have set up a number of
campsites on the shores of the lakes and waterways.
There are also rangers in the area from whom you can request information and
assistance while out canoeing.
To finance this extra service every canoeist pays a fee of 60 SEK per person and
night. This fee is used to compensate landowners for providing land for campsites,
reparations, maintenance and supervision in the area.
Canoe Country
For those who are planning a canoe trip we have put together an information guide
with maps and other useful facts. The Canoe Country can be bought at the tourist
offices and canoe rentals in the area.
The right of public access
The Swedish countryside is open to everyone, but you must treat nature kindly, and
you must show respect for both people and animals. Do not disturb - do not
destroy, is the main rule of the right of public access to private land.
You may walk, cycle, ride and ski freely in the countryside as long as there is no risk
for damaging crops, forest plantations or other sensitive areas. However, you must
show respect for people’s privacy, and you may not enter private grounds.
It is forbidden to drive motor vehicles in the terrain when there is no snow on the
ground.
You may camp for one night on land which is not used for farming, and which lies
some distance from residential buildings.
Never light a fire if there is the slightest risk of the fire spreading. During dry
weather, the lightning of fires is often forbidden. Make sure the fire is put out
properly before leaving the place. You must not light a fire directly on flat and bare
rocks, because they can split open, leaving ugly cracks which will never heal.
You may swim, tie up your boat temporarily and land almost everywhere, except on
private ground or where entry is specially forbidden, for example to protect bird life.
You must never leave litter outdoors. Glass jars and lids can injure both people and
animals, and plastic bags can cause grate suffering for animals if the eat them.
Never leave rubbish bags lying beside a full bin. If you have camped or had a
picnic, you must clean up before leaving.
It is forbidden to remove twigs, branches, bark, leaves, nuts or resin from living
trees. Naturally, you may not fell bushes or trees.
Dogs may accompany you in the countryside, but between 1st March and 20th of
August they must be on a leash. During the rest of the year you must keep a good
eye on your dog and ensure that it does not injure or disturb the animals.
Hunting and fishing are not included in the right of access to private land.
However, you may fish with a rod and other hand - held equipment in our five
largest lakes and in the sea. In all other waters, permission such as a fishing license
is required. It is your responsibility to find out which rules apply to the place where
you want to fish! Never leave fishing line or hooks behind - they can be fatal to
animals.
More information:
The Swedish National Environmental Protection Agency
www.naturvardsverket.se/english
Moose Safari
This tour will take you through magnificent countryside and give you that real
wilderness feeling. The chances are great that you'll encounter moose and other
wild animals!
Starting from Årjäng, take the road south towards Sillegårdsed.You might like to
take time off to visit the Sommarvik SweCamp Resort, there is a restaurant and
a campsite. Continue towards Risviken, and pass Nordmarkens Kanotcenter, a
company specializing in canoe rentals and wilderness survival courses.
Continue to Tegen (15 km south of Årjäng) where there is an old farmstead of major
importance. At the crossroads marked "Udden 2" turn left towards Sillerud. At
Signebyn, you will pass the beautifully situated burial-ground once used by Sillerud.
Turn off towards Bäcken and drive on to the E18 highway. Take E18 1,5km back
towards Årjäng and turn off towards Finntorp.
Before Finntorp, take the road to Lenungshammar. Here we suggest you to take a
brake at Älgsjön, a beautiful little lake where you'll find a fine picnic spot with a nice
sandy beach. The trip continues through practically virgin wilderness teeming with
elk and other game. Enjoy the view at Hedene, where there is a good lay-by place
and a public toilet. In Lenungshammar you'll find an information centre, a country
store and a campsite.
Now continue towards Södra Ström - follow the signs towards Lenungen - until you
reach “Sjöändan" between Ristjärn and Lelången. This is an attractive, easy-toreach site with a windshelter, a prepared grill site, a toilet and a beach which is safe
for children.
After your break continue to the southern end of Holmtjärn, here you'll find a
defence area from the second world war. From Holmtjärn you might like to drive to
the Ulvsjömyrarna nature reserve. On the road towards Södra Ström you will pass
by the Bu Stone, of which a tragical tale is told. Before returning to Årjäng, we
suggest you to drive through Långelanda, where you can see one of Sweden’s
oldest courthouses in an idyllic village setting.
A half-day tour, 95 km, takes approximately 4 hours. We recommend you to bring a
map of the "Glaskogen".
Facts about elks
The elk ranges all over Sweden except on Gotland. Its favorite grounds are woods
with low-lying swamps and lake districts. During summer time it feeds on leaves (up
to 30-50 kilos every day), in winter its principal food is branches and shoots. The elk
is a good swimmer and also likes to wade out into deep water, where it feeds on
succulent plants. At times its entire body becomes completely submerged. The
calves are usually born in May or June. Each cow has 1-3 calves, and they go with
their mother until the following spring. The bull stands about 2,5m high at the
shoulders and is about 2,8m long. He weighs up to a possible 520 kilos. The antlers
are shed annually, mostly during the winter. Replacements grow in spring and
summer with up to 19 mm every day. An elk may achieve an age of about 25 years.
Flea markets, antiques & second hand
Återvinsten Second Hand
Industrigatan 6 A Årjäng
+46 573-139 12
Röda Korset Second hand
Kvarnåsgatan 8, Årjäng
+46 573-71 12 83
Second Hand, Equmenia church
Sveavägen 41, Töcksfors
+46 573-290 12
Pingstkyrkan Second Hand
Storgatan 46 Årjäng
+46 573-123 20, +46 70-299 65 17
Korsbyn Loppis & Kuriosa
Korsbyn Karlanda
+46 573-502 13, +46 70-800 08 29
Loppis i Åslanda
+46 70-573-10 08
Loppis Linden
Brunnsvägen 2, Årjäng
Moose Safari
Foto: www.fotoaktuen.se
Summercafés
SUMMERCAFES
Motorcafé at Goodguys MC in Årjäng. Wednesdays in June, July and August.
18.00-21.00 Brännaregatan 6
1 July-14 August 12.00-20.00 all days. Summercafé at Strömsborg in
Lennartsfors.
2-29 July 12.00-20.00 Summercafé at the church in Västra Fågelvik.
3 July-14 August. 15.00-21.00 Summercafé Våfflan in Hämnäs.