2012 DALSLAND»SOMETIMES THE JOURNEY IS MORE IMPORTENT THANCANAL THE DESTINATION« SOMETIMESDALSLAND THE JOURNEY IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE DESTINATION

Inspiration CANALPractical tips Ideas for trips Boat rental Rent a cabin with your ”own” boat 17 cozy lock stations 10 good reasons to choose the right canal

150th ANNIVERSARY ToTo getget youryourDALSLAND CANAL 1868–2018

THE ANNIVERSARY THE EXPERIENCE THE JOURNEY dreamdreamTHE OCCASION WILL vacation vacation BREATHTAKING NATURE EVERYTHING YOU BE CELEBRATED ALL ALONG EXPERIENCES AND FASCINATING NEED TO KNOW FOR YOUR THE CANAL AND THROUGHOUT CULTURE IN YOUR OWN PIECE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME. THE YEAR. OF PARADISE. COMPETE and win free gating on Dalslands Canal 2012 LoadingThere’s up no reason for toa hurry here Åke served as director when the tremendous anniversary canal celebrated its 100th birthday

The year 2018 marks 150 years September with a big celebration in Håverud. As you In 1963, Åke E. Gunnarsson took up the post of since King Carl XV of may have guessed from the title above, I promise to director of tourism in Dalsland. Eight years later, he officially opened the Dalsland fire a celebratory salute. was also appointed director of the Dalsland Canal. Canal. You can find all the dates and locations of It would be fair to say that Åke inherited a canal in ‘The work was intense; we tried to encourage local He wrote his name on the rock the anniversary programme events on www. great need of repair. operators to organise anniversary arrangements, and I face at Håverud, before the Royal dalslandskanal.se. We will be updating the ‘There were a lot of things that were old and worn. The think we did pretty well in that respect. One that sticks Family continued on their canal programme throughout the year. company running the canal did not have the financial out in my mind is the very successful boat competition we had on Lake Stora Le. That endured for several journey onboard the steamer resources required for the renovation work, but we were years. And the Kanalyran town festival in Mellerud, Laxen. Despite the celebrations, we intend to make sure the fortunate enough to be granted an AMS (Sweden’s which was first held in 1968, and is still held today.’ Naturally, Colonel and Baron canal is as tranquil and relaxing a destination in 2018 public employment agency) project. Thus, with partial Nils Ericson was also present at as it has been for the last 150 years. You will still be state support the locks and dams were renovated.’ When Åke started in the job, there was still commercial the opening, as the man who able to find a natural harbour all to yourself, and in ‘When I took up the post, all of the locks were hand- traffic operating on the canal, but the number of cargo had created the canal and the long, narrow lakes, you can enjoy being in the operated. This involved pretty hard physical work for vessels was falling. ensured, thanks to its ingenious very heart of nature. All the elements that make the the lock keepers. In particular in Håverud, where one ‘During World War II, the small cargo boats were aqueduct, that boats could navigate its entire length, Dalsland Canal the distinctive destination it is will still lock keeper was in charge of four locks. I remember modified to become gas operated. And when all the way to Lake Vänern. be here in 2018, along with much, much more. that at one point we had a Dutch lock keeper there. After a while he bottled it and disappeared. Two diesel became more readily available after the war, people didn’t want to modify them again as there The 150th birthday of one of the world’s most We look forward to giving you a warm welcome to weeks later, he reappeared and told us that he’d been at home in the Netherlands, recuperating.’ were other means of transport by that point. The last beautiful waterways is certainly an occasion worth the anniversary celebrations – long live the Dalsland boats operating commercially were used to transport celebrating. And we intend to do so in style. Canal! ‘We managed to electrify all of the locks quite quickly, so that they could be operated at just the quartzite along the Snäcke Canal. But that wasn’t press of a button. However in Buterud we left things technically part of the Dalsland Canal at that time, and Throughout the anniversary year, a whole range of Benny Ruus how they were, so that future generations could see it was run by a separate company.’ different activities and events will be held along the Canal Director how locks used to work.’ ‘But the number of pleasure boats on the canal was length of the canal. These will culminate in early ‘The lock keepers’ houses were outdated and in need high from a pretty early stage. We marketed the canal of renovation, so we had to sort that out too. Not with the claims: clean water, fresh air and silence, least by installing new water and sewage systems.’ which hit the mark in Germany and the Netherlands in particular. Right up until the 1970s, we actually had We meet up with Åke Gunnarsson at a café in , more foreign boat tourists than the Göta Canal.’ where he now lives in order to be closer to his children and grandchildren. It is clear to see not only that he Naturally, some of the lock keepers stick out in Åke’s has positive memories of his time as canal director, but mind. Those who were unique characters. One such Dalsland canal 2012 also that he made a difference to the canal. person was Svea at Krokfors, a woman of a ‘comfortable He took up the post of director of Dalsland Tourist weight’, who had a voice befitting of a lock keeper. Whilst she was certainly a proficient lock keeper, she Why sails there and back? 4-5 10 good reasons to choose the right canal 14-15 Board in 1963, and as the canal is Dalsland’s biggest ’ tourist attraction, it wasn’t long before he found was perhaps best known for the glögg, or Swedish mulled wine, she produced at Christmas, which could Start planning your canal trip here 16-29 himself involved in organising the forthcoming A heritage worth preserving 6-7 anniversary: knock the socks off a full-grown man, according to Åke. in 1968 Dalsland Canal turned 100. Åke himself received a full bottle each Christmas, which A lock-keeper in pink 8-9 Map 30-31 he made sure to enjoy with great care.

”It´s so quite and peaceful here” 10-11 Tourist offices 32 An experience for everyone 4–5 Anniversary edition: Cultural heritage worth preserving 6–7 150 years of the Dalsland Canal I–IIX Those who sail a little further Welcome, say our lock keepers 8–9 discover much more 12-13 A canoer’s paradise 10–11 Plan your canal trip here 17–29 A natural harbour of your own or all the services you could want 12–13 Map 30–31 Recommended ports of call 14–15 Tourist offices 32 Rent a cabin by the canal 16 and 17

2 3 who, when they reached retirement, come to western Värmland. the whole canal system, and it’s decided to make their dream of ‘The nature here is just fantastic. beautiful from one end to the exploring Europe by boat a reality. We’ve been delighted with our trip other.’ Jim and Marjory Miller have already along the Dalsland explored the rivers and canals of Canal.’ France, Germany, the Netherlands ‘We’ve made our way and Denmark, and now they’ve through more or less there and back

The Cushing family from Torslanda, outside , are relaxing by the jetty in Köpmannebro, right at the start of the Dalsland Canal. In a few minutes’ time they intend to set off on their canal adventure. But they’re not planning to sail there and back.

AN EXPERIENCE F0R EVERYONE

Two Brits, one barge and a Be- what it was about the place that had lockkeepers. It is as if they were agle named Maksi. They visited captured his imagination. We decided made for the job. So service-min- the Dalsland Canal last summer, to spend a week here,” says Roger. ded and incredibly friendly.” and fell totally in love with it. Lily is a relatively modern barge. One week turned into seven She has everything Alison, Roger Ten years ago, Alison Alderton and When we met them at the marina and Maksi need to live in complete Roger Harrington did what they in Upperud, they had spent seven comfort. But she is an exact replica Use our slipways had always dreamed of. They sold weeks on the canal. of a Dutch barge from 1910. A real their house in England and bought “This is the most beautiful place beauty which will very likely return The lake system has 13 slipways. They offer great fully booked during the peak season, so we stron- a barge. In the past, they had co- we’ve been to during twelve years to grace the canal during the 150th opportunities for people enjoying the canal aboard gly recommend that you plan your trip and make owned a boat, but this time they we’ve spent exploring the water- anniversary celebrations in 2018. slightly smaller boats. reservations in advance. Or bring a tent. There went the whole way. ways of Europe.” Totally fantastic. The southernmost slipway is located at Upperud, are plenty of natural moorings, and you can pitch After travelling the UK and Ireland, We have explored the whole canal From Scotland to Dalsland and the northernmost at Östervallskog. Other a tent anywhere other than in people’s gardens, they started thinking about bringing and met so many friendly people,” Between Töcksfors and ramps are located, for example, at Ed and Otteid. provided that you tidy up after yourselves and their barge, Lily, to Sweden. says Alison. Östervallskog, just by the bridge Did you know … If you can’t spend the night aboard your boat, there don’t light fires on bare rock. “My father had read about the operated by the sailors themselves, That you can also hire boats and chalets from are plenty of hotels, youth hostels, cottages and Our slipways are located at marinas and you can Dalsland Canal, and told me a long The lockkeepers are made for we catch sight of it. A beautiful Dalslands Kanal AB? chalets along the way. They are, however, usually find them listed on page 17. time ago that he would love to come the job white wooden boat. It turns out here. This year, I wanted to find out “I don’t know how you recruit your that it belongs to a Scottish couple

4 5 DALSLAND CANAL – 2012 drew up the guidelines for the Swe- nal. This means that the canal will ce- as a major freight route. A handful of dish railway network. When he sta- lebrate its 150th anniversary in 2018 barges still remained in service right ted that it would be possible to use and we intend to mark the occasion up until the 1980s, but that was all. an aqueduct to take traffic past the in every imaginable way. Recreational sailors probably don’t A heritage Håverud rapids, not many dared to With the completion of the canal see this as such a bad thing though, argue with him. Even the sceptics it was planned that sawn timber and since they have the whole canal to kept quiet”, says Benny Ruus. iron ore would be transported on themselves now,” says Benny Ruus.. barges between Stora Le and Köp- worth preserving The cargo boats disappeared mannebro. However, ten years later In 1868 the aqueduct was comple- the railway was built in Dalsland, and “Managing such a significant heritage feature is a great responsibi- ted and Carl XV turned out with his the barges disappeared one by one. lity. The aqueduct is a unique construction. If Nils Ericson had not entourage to open the Dalsland Ca- “Yes, the canal had a short history been such an expert canal and railway designer, he would probably never have been given permission to build it. The fact that it is still working today, without any radical restoration work, is a tribute to his technical genius.” Did you know that...

...the canal has 31 locks with 17 lock stations.

..the canal measures 250 km long, of which only 12 km are man-made.

...the difference in height between Lakes Stora Le and Vänern is 66 m.

Chief County Heritage Advisor Karolina von Mentzer ..the aqueduct, which was built by Bergsunds Mekaniska Verk- hangs up the sign declaring the Håverud and Upperud stad in , contains 33,000 rivets. lock areas as listed buildings.

...the Håverud and Upperud lock areas are listed structures as ..2,792 steamboats passed through the canal in 1905. As well of 2013. Here we see the symbolic sign being hung up on the as hundreds of cargo ships and barges. canal office wall in Upperud. Three cheers for the cente- ...the Swedish Association for Building Preservation awarded narian. Last summer, we ce- Dalslands Kanal AB its 2013 award for outstanding contribu- lebrated the centenary of the Preserving a northernmost part of the lake- tion to the preservation of historic structures. The citation notes the company’s tireless long-term work with preserving, and-canal system – the canal restoring and developing the industrial heritage along the connecting Lakes Stora Lee Dalsland Canal. and Östen. As part of this, the area around the locks in ...the fourhorn sculpin, a fish species dating back to before the Töcksfors were given a face- ice age, still lives in Lake Stora Le. lift with works of art and new cultural heritage lighting. It’s now an attraction “Managing such a significant heritage feature is a great which you really shouldn’t miss. responsibility. The aqueduct is a unique construction. If Nils Vi vårdar ett kulturarv Ericson had not been such an expert canal and railway de- signer, he would probably never have been given permission to build it. The fact that it is still working today, without any radical restoration work, is a tribute to his technical genius.”

Canal Director Benny Ruus is clearly In the mid-19th Century, the inten- ryone thought they would prove an impressed when he talks about the re- tion was to make the canal the main impossible obstacle - everyone ex- markable aqueduct at Håverud and its communications route through the cept Nils Ericson, that is. roadless areas of Dalsland and wes- Chief County Heritage Advisor Karolina von Mentzer creator, Nils Ericson. hangs up the sign declaring the Håverud and Upperud “He even considered the fact that tern Värmland. It seemed like a very A respected name lock areas as listed buildings. we would have to repaint it, about good idea at the time, since it would “At the time, Nils Ericson was a 100 years after the grand opening. only be necessary to dig short stret- highly respected name. He had re- The design allows it to be “rolled” to ches of canal to link a series of long, designed the Trollhätte Canal and the side fairly easily.” narrow lakes. But then they hit on the the locks in Stockholm. He had built problem of the Håverud rapids. Eve- the Saima Canal in Finland, and he

6 7 This is Annika Sandell’s kingdom. She normally lives in Gothenburg, is doing a university course in health and diet, and has suddenly found herself in the Welcome, says our lock keepers middle of nowhere. “I love it”, she laughs. A lockkeeper “It is great to take a break from the city. A friend of mine has worked as lock keeper in the past, and really enjoyed it. And I’m originally from Dalsland, although I’ve never been to Töcksfors before.” in pink “Slightly primitive living conditions don’t bother me, and the work is great fun.” The person most boating tourists meet first on the Dalsland Canal is Annika Almost everyone aboard the visiting Sten. Annika is the lockkeeper in Köpmannebro, where the canal begins. It’s boats is in a good mood. Even if it’s an idyllic little village between lake Vänern and Svanefjorden. We arrive just pouring with rain, we still laugh together. as the canal season is coming to an end. It’s a little quieter now than in mid- There isn’t much else you can do.” summer. Annika greets us wearing a pair of shocking pink wellingtons. A small piece of Paradise “It’s a small piece of Paradise.” Annika Sandell appreciates time away from the city. Thomas Petman and his children from Åmål stopped off at Snäcke and en- ded up staying quite a while. Fredrika Björk is hurrying between the other cultures. Two canoeists from The lock keepers, Gunilla Lundbom locks. Lyon in France came past just now. and Bo Timle, have made a real effort “Here’s a boat which draws quite a bit They spoke excellent English, so we for young families and there’s so- of water”, she says. got on really well.” mething new happening all the time. “Things are going to get a bit exciting.” “Most visitors also like the fact that we Glittra the Dragon, now a couple of The sill of the lock is 1.8 metres below have a small kiosk here in Krokfors. It years old, is still there, of course but the surface. That’s about the same gives them the chance to enjoy an ice no one knows yet what new things will The maximum draft in the canal is 1.80 metres. This boat cleared the lock sill in Håverud, but not by a great margin. as the draught of many of the larger cream. I certainly don’t regret that I pop up during the summer. The only sailing boats. In this case, the boat sli- grabbed the chance to work here.” way to find out is to pay a visit. Peace and quiet reign at some of des over the sill with the aid of a little the locks along the canal system. counterflow from the lock. But not at Håverud, the hub of the “That went well”, says Fredrika, as she Annika loves Töcksfors canal. This is a busy place, at any catches her breath. Working as a lock keeper in Töcksfors time of the day. is a little bit different. You live in a tiny Canoeists at Krokfors cottage almost in the middle of the Peace and quiet reign at some of the At Krokfors, we meet lockkeeper Alf forest, manage two locks located some locks along the canal system. But not at Olsson. He is spending his first season distance from each other, and travel Håverud, the hub of the canal. This is a on the canal, and he is really enjoying by service boat from one to the other busy place, at any time of the day. himself. to get there on time. Although there is During the peak season, visitors may “Many canoeists from lots of different less need to rush if the crew of visiting have to wait for an hour to get into the countries visit Krokfors. That’s what boats decide to stop at the large shop- Thomas Petman and his children feel that lock, but that really doesn’t matter since I enjoy most. Meeting people from ping centre. there is lots to see and do in Håverud. Snäcke is a small piece of Paradise. Restaurants, glassworks, business exhi- bition, or just a chance to sit in the sun enjoying a nice big ice cream. Three lock keepers are on duty when 31 locks lift you 67 metres Håverud is at its busiest. And they really do have their hands full. The Dalsland Canal has 31 locks, and the Two of the canal’s locks are still manually canal engineer Nils Ericson had his home and “Lunch is often just a sandwich in the difference in height between Lake Vänern and operated: The one in Strömmen and one in office built in Upperud. For many years, the control hut. But it’s great fun. Lots of Töcksfors is 67 metres. Buterud. house was used for the administration of the ••• The Strömmen lock has a history much longer canal, so it is called the Manager’s Home. boats and wonderful visitors make the The locks are dimensioned for boats measur- than that of the actual canal. As early as Today it is once again the canal office. day go quickly”, says Kim Stücken, ing at most 22.75 m long, 4.05 m wide, 1.8 m 1842, people could sail between Fröskog and ••• who has worked as a lock keeper in deep and 12 m in sail height. Some stretches Snäcke. That’s 26 years before the opening of nd last year we started our own blog. Or Håverud for five seasons. can accommodate larger boats. the Dalsland Canal. rather, Gunilla in Snäcke did. For those who ••• read Swedish, it’s full of funny and clever Kim will soon finish his training as a ••• The smallest height difference is in the Köp- In the early days, the Dalsland Canal started thoughts about the life of a lock keeper on ship’s captain, so he will be spending mannebro lock, just 8 cm. The four locks in in Upperud. the Dalsland Canal. You’ll find it on our web- lots of time on the water in the future Långed raise (or lower) boats just over 13 m. The lock in Köpmannebro was considered site under the Inspiration tab. It’s a gem! as well. separate from the canal until 1909. That’s why 8 9 We meet Mario van De Voort by the lock in Gustavsfors. He is on a canoeing holiday with a friend and their re- spective sons. He explains that this is the third time he has ‘I can guarantee that this come to Dalsland. “But it’s the first time I’ve brought the boys along. They think it’s great, and they really want to spend a night in a wind shelter at one of the camp sites. It’s more fun than a tent.” won’t be my last visit’ From Holland Mario comes from Zwolle in Holland, and a big smile co- mes to his face as he talks about his experiences on the Florian Halim from Dalsland Canal. has hung a Düsseldorf “The countryside is absolutely tremendous and the hammock between two people are so friendly. It’s little things like the fact that you trees on a small island in can leave spades and saws out in the open at the camp Lake Foxen. site. Back home in Holland they would disappear within The setting is a glorious 20 minutes.” late summer evening, and He tells us that they drove up from Holland to Bengtsfors. Florian is relaxing after a “From there we pedalled rail cycles to Årjäng. Then we day canoeing. rented canoes, and now we’re gradually making our way back to Bengtsfors. We’re not in any hurry. Yesterday we This is his first trip to did some fishing, but we didn’t have much luck,” he says. Sweden, and he has So they were delighted when they found out that Leif, the enjoyed it immensely. lockkeeper in Gustavfors, sells fresh-smoked vendace. ‘It’s absolutely fantastic “We’re not going to starve after all,” laughs Mario. here. I’ll definitely be returning,’ he says. Perfect for canoeing ‘I’ve never seen nature like The Dalsland Canal lake system could be purpose-made this before. It’s wonderful.’ for canoeing. The lakes are long and narrow, there are hardly any waves to speak of, and when you’re ready for a Florian is part of a group cup of tea it’s just a matter of filling your kettle in the lake. of nine German canoers, Really close to nature The water is crystal clear. Canoeists get closer to nature than anyone else. They accompanied by guide “We also have a good network of camp sites,” comments glide along almost silently, without disturbing the elk that Nikolay. They started their Tommy Norén, a canal inspector. comes to the water’s edge to drink, or the beaver splas- journey in Lennartsfors, and “Once canoeing tourists have bought a conservation pass hing about with their broad tails. have been on the lake all they can use any of the sites. These have wind shelters, Mario van De Voort is completely satisfied with his holiday day. fire pits, a wood supply and toilets. The fee for the con- in Dalsland. But he is a little worried that we’re advertising When we meet up with the servation pass goes towards maintaining and inspecting too much. group, they are cooking the sites.” their evening meal at one of the 120 permanent campsites dotted around the lake system. Well, almost all of them. Florian is enjoying lying back in his hammock. Made for canoeing

Soon they’ll be getting a fire going at the barbeque The Dalsland Canal is made for canoeing. The If you’re planning to go paddling in the Dals- site, and it won’t be long before delicious smells begin lakes are long and narrow, so there are hardly land Canal, it’s a good idea to get the Canoe ever any waves. The water is crystal clear, and Country brochure, which contains a canoe filling the air from the pans. The sun is starting to sink so clean that you can drink straight out of it. map and a guide to everything you need to behind the treetops, and the whole lake is glistening. And when you’re in a canoe, you’ll see plenty know along the way. It’s easiest to order it in of wildlife. Loons may disturb your sleep, advance from www.dalslandskanal.se. That but that’s the sort of thing you have to put way you can get ready before you even leave There is no doubt in Florian’s mind that this will not up with in the wild. And the elks are friendly. home. The brochure is available in Swedish, Most of them, anyway… German and English.. be the last time he spends a week of his summer in a ••• ••• canoe on the Dalsland Canal. If you didn’t bring your own canoe, there If you have a portage cart for your canoe, are more than ten canoe centres in the lake you can experience two canals on the same system where you can rent one, along with all trip. There’s one location where the Dalsland the equipment you need. They also offer tips Canal is just two kilometres from Norway’s and advice. Halden Canal. It’s a bit of an effort to carry a canoe that distance, but it’s easy to roll it.

10 11 DALSLAND CANAL – 2012 Modern guest harbours The canal system offers an almost endless succession of natural harbours. But of course there are also many fine guest harbours of varying sizes and standards. In fact there are 20 of them, strategically placed along the lake system. From Köpmannebro in the south to Östervall- skog in the north, and from Sillebotten in the east to Otteid, in Norway, in the west. Some offer a very high standard and have a restaurant, bar, laundry facilities, pump-out station and fuel. Others simply have a small kiosk run by the local children, and a wood-fired sauna down by the lakeside. You can read more about the guest harbours on the Dalsland Canal on page 17. The Upperud’s beautiful guest harbour is one of the first you en- counter as you enter the canal from the south. natural harbours are yours to discover.

If you stay overnight in Bengtsfors you have access to all the facilities of a small town. There are plenty of shops, restau- rants, cafés, a liquor store and, within comfortable walking distance, the local heritage museum and the House of Straw (Halmens Hus) at Majberget.

These three families from Norway found their own favourite natural harbour a couple of years ago. They love coming back here. A natural harbour of your own, or all the facilities you could want

We head out to Lake Foxen, north of Lennartsfors, on a wonderful evening towards the end of July. We are looking for a family who have found their own natural harbour. We do not have to search for long, and we find not one family, but three, who have just eaten dinner and are enjoying the evening sun. The grownups are soaking up the sun, while the kids are more interested in swimming. It’s 26 degrees in the water, they shout, before leaping in from the rocks.

“We’re travelling together along the canal,” explain the luxurious. It has a small jetty, a spot for barbecuing and family groups Fagermoen/Jørgensen, Enger/Gløtta and even a table for dining. A local boat club looks after the Aaserud, all from Aurskog in Norway. island. Aurskog is situated by the Haldenvassdraget waterway, “We found this spot a couple of years ago and have so it is a relatively short land crossing to the Dalsland been back several times since then. We’ve been here Canal. two days now and it’s absolutely wonderful. Yesterday “It’s nearby, we’ve been here several times before and we had a barbecue together and enjoyed the sunset. even made trips down to Lake Vänern. And we’ll defini- But today we’ll be having meatballs and mashed po- tely be coming back. This is a fantastic place to be.” tato.” The little island in Lake Foxen would have been a per- Not the first time fectly quiet and tranquil haven when we left the group, This particular natural harbour is a little special, almost except for the gleeful yelling and splashing of the kids.

12 13 8 good reasons to choose the right canal The Dalsland Moose Ranch in Ed In the provinces of Dalsland and Värmland, you can spot moose almost anywhere. If you are lucky, that is. But if you really want to get up close and personal with the King of the Forest, you really should pay a visit to the Dalsland Moose Ranch. Here, eleven moose live in a ten hec- 5 tare enclosure where they can enjoy The Dalsland glassworks their natural environment. They live In Håverud, the glass blower, Johnny Persson, and his just like any other moose, but are a wife Ingrid produce utility and art objects. Johnny is little bit more used to people. Dalsland’s only glassblower and, at the glassworks, you 6 can watch him turn molten glass into beautiful works of art. If you book your visit in advance, you may even get the opportunity to blow glass yourself. But it is not as The studio in Långbron Halmens Hus (The Straw House) Stenebyskolan in Dals Långed is an Straw craft is a tradition in the easy as it looks. arts and crafts school, and part of the province of Dalsland. At Majberget University of Gothenburg. The Dalsland in Bengtsfors, you can find out why Canal owns an old warehouse in Lång- straw was so important to Dalsland. bron. Why not work together to turn You have no idea just how much the old warehouse into an art studio? can be made from straw. If you think Steneby student, Josha Woudstra, was that it can only be used to make given the job, and the old warehouse Christmas decorations and Panama has now been transformed into a really hats, you are in for a surprise. And cosy art gallery. Right beside the lock in the view across Lake Lelång from 1 Långbron. Halmens Hus is truly lovely. 2 The upper lock at Töcksfors In 2018, the Dalsland Canal will be 150 years old. But the northern- The Åmål Blues Fest most section, between Åmål is the ideal place to stop off Töcksfors and Öster- when you enter the Dalsland Ca- vallskog, was not built nal. And if you happen to visit the until 1915. During The Buterud Nature Reserve town on 6–9 July, you will come the Centenary celebra- To reach the Buterud Nature Reserve across something really special. It tion, the upper lock at by land, you need to follow a track from is the Åmål Blues Fest, Sweden’s Töcksfors was decorated Håverud. If you are traveling by canoe, pre-eminent blues festival. You Västra Fågelvik church with works of art by Lolo the hike will be a bit shorter. The nature can listen to blues anywhere. On Many of the churches along the Funch Andersson and reserve features the largest stand of yew the street, in cafés, restaurants Dalsland Canal are situated in beautiful countryside. Julius Braunschweig. A trees in inland Sweden. There are also and, of course, at the large Blues And the one at Västra Fågelvik is no exception. The spectacular permanent 7 several varieties of orchids, including the terminal. You won’t be able to church was completed in 1859, and it stands3 next to light display was also beautiful early-purple orchid. And, in early avoid rocking to the beat. the site of a much older church. The architect was installed. Although the summer, lots of wild garlic. A herb which 8 Albert Törnqvist, and our guess is that he easily found nights are short in Sweden in sum- adds amazing flavour to your food. inspiration on the stunningly beautiful peninsula on mer, you really should try to visit the Lake Foxen. upper lock in Töcksfors after dark. 14 15 Over the last few years we have presented a series of the best attractions along the Dalsland Canal. If you have missed any just go along to 4 www.dalslandskanal.se. Please sit down

If you are not staying on a boat, we have refurbished a number of cottages with fantastic locations right next to the canal.

Lillstugan i Lennartsfors Lillstugan is situated by the lower lock in Lennartsfors, right by the shore of lake Lelång. The cottage is of a good standard. It is close to the countryside, places where you can swim and fish, and various cultural attractions. Floor area: 36 m2 Living room with open fire Fully equipped kitchen Bedroom with double bed, sleeping loft with two mattresses Shower and toilet Porch Use of rowing boat and two cycles included Price per week: June-Aug.SEK 5,200.May, September SEK 42 00. Price per day: June-Aug. SEK 1,050 May, September SEK 850 8

THE TECHNOLOGY

This is an extract from a unique handwritten document. taking a look at the plan, instead he undertook a long It was written by Nils Ericson, and in this very memo he journey through the entire lake system, to see the Mekaniska Verkstads AB in Stockholm. On the 150th anniversary in 2018, we can welcome all proposes building an aqueduct at Håverud. conditions with his own eyes. visitors with a newly renovated aqueduct. Afterwards, he authored a long memo, suggesting a Detailed requirements We look forward to seeing you soon! As early as the 18th century slew of improvements. What really got the attention The requirements provided were highly detailed. The The idea of the Dalsland canal had been on the table of those who had requested his expertise was that he aqueduct was to be 33.5 metres long, comprising since long before Nils Ericson arrived onto the scene. wanted to build an aqueduct at Håverud, forming an a number of sheets. The sheets would be riveted The idea of establishing a link between the heavily unbroken waterway. together on land, and the entire channel could then be forested and isolated countryside and the rest of the If it weren’t for Ericson’s reputation, the idea would pulled out over the rapids below. world via a water way had been suggested as early as probably have been rejected. But he had built canals One area of difficulty would be securing it to the the 18th century. However, whilst the long and narrow before, after all. And he had done so under budget and ground. They knew that the sheets would move, and lakes almost invited the prospect of a cohesive link, the ahead of schedule. naturally there could not be any gaps through which project would be neither simple nor cheap. Ericson was assigned with the task, however, as he was the water could leak out. For this reason, oak logs were already 60 by this point, he entrusted responsibility for the fastened in place under the channel at both ends. Lilliehöök practical side of the construction work to his son, Werner. The first person tasked with making the dreams of a He did, however, serve as guarantor, ensuring that the Brilliant design waterway between Köpmannebro and Lake Stora Le a construction would be carried out to his high standards. Restoration work carried out in later years revealed reality was a Major D. W. Lilliehöök, director of Wästra that Nils Ericson had also planned ahead. ‘Rolling’ the Wäg- och Wattenbyggnadsdistriktet – the road and water Advanced engineering aqueduct up onto land is a relatively straightforward construction district for western Sweden. His proposals, Building a lock is, in itself, a feat of advanced process, and virtually none of the 33,000 rivets have which were costed at just over 850,000 Swedish kronor, engineering. It will need to be functional for a long had to be replaced. featured a kilometre-long horse-powered railway at period of time, be able to withstand constant filling and In 1870, Svea Folk-Kalender wrote: ‘this immense, Håverud. The fierce rapids were not navigable by boat, emptying, and close attention must be paid to the state water-filled iron box is the famous aqueduct, the only and some form of transfer would be required here. of the walls and bottom. one in Scandinavia, one of the many monuments to Nils Building an aqueduct, however, is another matter entirely. Ericson’s incredible genius.’ Nils Ericson comes into the picture However, Lilliehöök was no canal builder, so it was A sheet steel aqueduct Faster decided that the significantly more experienced Nils As you can read in Nils Ericson’s memo, he originally The construction of the entire canal took approximately Ericson would be asked to take a look at the project. proposed building the aqueduct of wood. He later four years, compared to the estimated six to seven. Somewhat reluctantly, he took on the task. changed this to a sheet steel design. The task of And the project stayed within budget. There is no Ericson was a meticulous man. He didn’t stop at just building the aqueduct itself went to Bergsunds doubt that Nils Ericson was an incredible genius. II III THE PEOPLE The Dalsland Canal’s history is inextricably intertwined herself heard over the din from the locks. with the impact of people around the canal. ‘Welcome’ she would shout as soon as she had opened the One important person was Svea Andersson. lock gates. No one could miss the welcome to Krokfors. Svea and her husband, Hasse, were lock keepers at Krokfors. She took up the post in the 1920s, and Aqueduktwasser quickly became legendary. At that time, all of the locks Tasked with receiving a delegation of German had to be opened and closed by hand, and people had journalists, the then Canal Director Åke E Gunnarsson to row out with the waterway markers as soon as the ice came up with the idea of asking Svea to brew a spirit began to recede. he termed ‘Aqueduktwasser’. He knew of Svea’s famous Svea was strong, with a voice strong enough to make Christmas glögg, and thought that something similar

might go down well. And that it did. confidence. When he received criticism, his standard The concoction blew the journalists away, and they retort was ‘I may not be a perfect county governor, but were sure that Aqueduktwasser would be a Swedish I know twenty three county governors worse than me.’ export success. He nurtured a great passion for developing trade and Svea never lost her connection with the lock at industry in Dalsland, and on several occasions urged Krokfors. When she grew older and weaker, she would the king to allocate funds for the construction of a sit at the kitchen table in the lock keeper’s house, a canal. In the end, he got his way. mug of strong coffee in hand, surveying the locks. When the boat owners came to pay, they were invited Nils Ericson into the kitchen, where Svea gathered up her petty Of course, we can’t talk about the role of people cash from the china cabinet. around the canal without mentioning Nils Ericson. The Svea’s kitchen wall, entirely covered with postcards man tasked with planning about building the canal. from grateful boaters from Germany, the Netherlands Ericson had, in fact, been planning to retire, as by this and Denmark, bore witness to Svea’s popularity as a point he was getting on in years. He had already built lock keeper. the Saima Canal in Finland, Slussen in Stockholm, the new locks in the Trollhätte Canal, and realigned the The lock keepers are still popular today main Swedish rail network. And these are just a few of The lock keepers are still popular today. A study carried his achievements. out a few years ago showed that the pleasant and However, this was a challenge he couldn’t resist, obliging lock keepers were a key factor in making the and so he accepted. He built the canal both faster than journey along the canal system so fantastic. planned and at a cheaper cost than budgeted for.

Eric Sparre There is no shortage of people who have played vital Another person of great importance for the canal was roles in the 150 years the Dalsland Canal has flowed from the county governor of the former county of Älvsborgs western Värmland down to Köpmannebro on Lake Vänern. Svea in Kroksvik was awarded a well-deserved certificate by the Swedish Royal Patriotic Society. On the left, her län, Count Eric Sparre. A man with unwavering self We are immensely thankful to all of them. husband Hasse. IV V Post station on board Perhaps the most famous steamer of them all was a boat called Laxen. She was tasked with transporting King Carl XV on the grand opening journey along the canal in 1868. Laxen was also the first vessel in Sweden to have a post station on board. She also housed a gentlemen’s lounge capable of accommodating ten, a ladies’ lounge with room for six, a common lounge for four, and a wine cellar containing 1,700 bottles. THE BOATS Idog the most industrious If there were an award for most cargo transported along the canal, it would most likely have gone to Idog bundles of pulpwood were to be transported from the (Swedish for ‘industrious’). The name proved to be highly In December 1971, when Sweden is at its darkest and seen boat traffic since long before the canal was built. forests in the north to the paper mills further south. accurate. She undertook approximately 1,500 journeys. coldest, the vessels Balder and Lindö left the quartz Here, rowing and sailing boats dominated. Even They were towed by tugs, and each bundle was large Idog was just over 23 metres in length, however, the mine in Fröskog. after the canal opened in 1868, the majority of boats enough to only just fit into the lock chambers. Naturally, locks are designed to accommodate a maximum length Valdemar Olsson, the skipper on Lindö, decided transporting cargo along the canal were sail boats. this process took some time, and those carrying out the of just over 22 metres, meaning that Idog had to be that both vessels should travel together down to the Whilst they may have been slow, they could carry loads transportation often built a hut on one of the bundles positioned diagonally in the chamber. This became smeltery in Vargön. of up to 80 tonnes. to give them somewhere to sleep at night. second nature to those involved as time went by. He knew that this was their final such journey. The sailing vessels were often privately owned, and the When Idog’s days of service on the canal came to an With sadness, he said goodbye to the lock keepers at shipping company owners could only earn money from Nowadays, the age of cargo vessels on the canal has end, she was repurposed into a pleasure boat, before Strömmen, Snäcke, Upperud and Köpmannebro. them when the water was ice-free. long since passed. Balder and Lindö were the last boats eventually sinking during towing on the Baltic. Balder and Lindö were both built to the exact to leave the canal. measurements of the locks. True canal boats. And they The canal, however, remains. The wonderful Steam vessels take over Bundles of pulpwood – a common sight on the canal were the last cargo vessels to travel the Dalsland Canal. At the end of the 19th century, steam vessels took over. surrounding landscape is perhaps even more beautiful Gradually, bundles of pulpwood began to appear on By that time, other means of transport had long held Many transported goods and were owned by mills than ever before. And we are perfectly equipped to the canal. Masses and masses of bundles. These bound the upper hand, but the quartz transporters of the along the canal. Whilst they could not carry as much, receive an abundance of pleasure boats. Snäcke Canal had held out. Up until that December they could travel far faster than the sailing boats. day. Now it was over. Rowing and sailing boats The lakes in Dalsland and western Värmland had, of course,

VI VII Buterudsstugan

The cabin is situated near the lock in Buterud. Close to nature and the canal. Accommodation area approx. 20 sq. m. Living room with sofa bed, fully equipped kitchen, shower and toilet. Nearest town is Mellerud, around 23 km away. Distance to Håverud approx 25 km. Price per week: SEK 2500. Price per day: SEK 500.

Sjöstugan i Upperud The cottage is situated by lake Upperudshöljen, close to Mustastugan i Mustadfors the lock in Upperud. The cottage is of a good standard The cottage is situated by lake Katrineholmshöljen, close and it is two kilometres to Håverud and the aqueduct. to the lock in Mustadfors, Dals Långed. A minor road runs close to the cottage. Pets allowed. 2 2 Floor area: 21 m (equipped for two persons) Floor area: 22 m Living room with sofa bed. loft with two mattresses Living room with double sofa bed Fully equipped kitchen Fully equipped kitchen Shower and toilet Shower and toilet Garden furniture. Pets allowed. Rowing boat Porch. Price per week: SEK 3,500 Use of rowing boat and tqo cycles included Price per day: SEK 700 Price per week: June-Aug SEK 4,100, May, Sept. SEK 3 100. Price per day: June-Aug.SEK 820, May, September SEK 620.

These are a few of the cottages we have available to rent. All cottages can be booked through Dalslands Kanal AB, email [email protected] or call +46 530-447 50. IIX More information on www.dalslandskanal.se Harb. depth Guest berths Mooring Harbour host Harbour fee Other

D Köpmannebro 2,5 m 6 to10 Alongside Dalslands Kanal AB SEK 90 B Sewage disposal. Guest jetty s. +46 530-311 10 SEK 40 of the lock may be used for temporary mooring daytime. Start planning your canal trip here Boats longer than 14 m double fee. Upperud 2,5-12 m 17 Y-boom/buoy Bengt Orthagen SEK 100 Sewage disposal. Spången Alongside +46 76-7830555 SEK 40 SEK 30 3 km marina south of the lock.

Håverud 1,8 m 25 Y-boom/ Håfreströms IF SEK 140 Pump-out station. Crane. Guest Buoy Caretaker jetties below/SW of the lock.

SEK 40 1,5 km VISITORS MARINA’S Open 11 June - 19 Aug 2018 Fees and payment 2018 New bridge +46 70-219 79 15 Service at the camping. Shop. Mustadfors 1,8 m 10 Buoy Roger Karlsson SEK 150 @ Sewage disp., barbecue site. 11 June - 30 June Leisure boats -4,99 m (incl. rowboats) SEK 50/lock basin +46 73-420 59 35 100 m 150 m 250 m E. Katrineholmshöljen. Monday–Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Whole canal round trip SEK 2100 Långbron 1,5 6 Buoy Åke I Andersson SEK 70 Cycles to borrow. Visitors marina’s Sunday 17 June 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Leisure boats 5,00-7,99 m (incl. rowboats) SEK 115/lock basin +46 531-408 83 SEK 30 TC 1,5 km above/NE of the lock. Exposed in Whole canal round trip SEK 2600 +46 70 565 26 43 case of strong NW wind. Midsummer Leisure boats 8,00- m (incl. rowboats) SEK 160/lock basin Laxsjön 1-1,8 m 10 Anchor Laxsjöns Camping SEK 100 @ On SW side of Lake +46 531-300 10 Laxsjön. Keelboats on Midsummer’s Eve (22 June) 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Whole canal round trip SEK 3300 SEK 40 Midsummer’s Day (23 June) 11 a.m.-4 p.m. www.laxsjon.se the north side of the jetty. Service at the camping. Caravan pontoon/houseboat SEK 200/lock basin Sunday 24 June 11 a.m.-4-p.m Baldersnäs 1,2 m- 12 Y-boom/buoy/ Herrgård +46 531 41213 SEK 150 At Baldersnäs Herrgård. Exposed to Canoes/kayaks -5,99 m SEK 40/lock basin >1,8 m anchor swell in case of W wind. Craft house, 1 July - 31 July exhibitions, park. Hotel, landrace farm, farm shop. Canoes/kayaks 6- m SEK 115/lock basin SEK 40 Monday–Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Bengtsfors 1,5-3 m 45 Buoy/ Bengtsfors kommun SEK 200 D Park with playground. In town Sundays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tow dinghy SEK 30/lock basin* anchor +46 531-52 60 00 B centre. Largest supply of *no charge for tow dinghy moored so that only the aft drags in (2012) @ incl. nearby services along the Canal. Pump-out the water. station. Diesel, petrol and LPG by the 1 July - 31 July Håverud din-X filling station. Monday–Saturday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Lock tickets can be purchased by credit card in Köpmannebro, Gustavsfors 2 m 16 Buoy Bengtsfors kommun SEK 155 The jetty is below and S of lock. Sundays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Lennartsfors and Töcksfors (not American Express). At other lock +46 531-52 60 00 Crane. Petrol and LPG 100 m. stations, tickets have to be paid for in cash (SEK). Unused lock incl. 1 July - 31 July Upperud tickets are not refundable. Return tickets only apply for one Dalslands Gästgiveri 1,5-6 m 8-10 Alongside Dalslands Gästgiveri SEK 125 Also hotel. season. Monday–Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Ånimmmen NE +46 532-250 11 Incl. el. Ärrsjön (Fröskog) Sundays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. At Håverud you should try to go through the locks before 10.00 1,8 m 3 Alongs./buoy Åmåls gästhamn 3 km, Fengersfors or after 16.00. Årjäng 2 m 15 Buoy/ Lennart Olsson SEK 150 Boating club’s jetty in alongside +46 73-025 98 03 northern part of V Silen. 1 August -19 August Incl. 700 m 1,2 km Monday–Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Buy a return ticket and save money! Sundays 4 and 11 August 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Return tickets are cheaper and make things easier. You just Sillebotten 2-3 m 4 Y-boom/ Sillebottens Byalag SEK 50 Northern part of Östra Silen. pay once – when you start your journey, and you get access Anchor Katarina +46 70-374 20 26 to the entire canal and all its locks. Single tickets only make Signebyn 1,5-3 m 3 Buoy Kenneth Karlsson SEK 50 D Northern part of Östra Silen. B sense if you are making a short trip. +46 76-111 64 62 5 km

Additional open 20-26 August Lennartsfors 3 m 15-18 Buoy Lennartsfors Båtklubb SEK 100 D Klint jetty in the Monday-Sunday 12 a.m.-4 p.m. Erik Davidsson B southernmost part of Dalsland canal +46 573-301 67 300 m Lake200 m Foxen. Toilet emptying. In Lennartsfors, Gustavsfors and Krokfors. SEK 50 @ Length 254 km All other lock stations are closed. Locks 31 Holmerudsfors 2,5 m 11 Buoy/ Lars-Olov Strömner SEK 130 Service house, sauna SEK 50/boat. alongside +46 70 226 50 49 Incl. el. Kiosk operated by district children Stations 17 SEK 20 You should not enter a lock if there is not enough Total difference in height 66 m Hiking trail. time to get through the lock before it closes for Töcksfors 3,5 m 14 Alongside/ Örjan Johansson SEK 150 D Pump-out station. B the day. See page 20. Maximum dimensions buoy Petrol and diesel incl. 1 km 1 km Length 22,75 m +46 70 238 76 70 at southern lock. +46 573 312 22 Notheast tip of Sandviken. Width 4,05 m Reservations 1–10 June, 20 August–7 September Depth 1,80 m Östervallskog 2 m 20 Y-boom/Anchor Conny Haglund SEK 60 Quay and jetties. When the locks are closed, you can order special ope- alongside +46 70-586 94 35 500 m 500 m 500 m nings (at a special rate) if this is not a problem for the ca- Maximum sail height nal company. The order must be placed no more than five Nössemark 2 m 15 Y-boom/ Lennart Gustavsson SEK 150 Sewage disp. To Lennartsfors 17 m + temporary alongside +46 70-522 17 93 SEK 40 100 m Crane, in Strandviken, days before the required date. Contact the canal office on To Töcksfors 15 m St Lee S ferry berth phone +46 (0)530 447 50. The tributaries of Silarna 12 m** D Ed 1-6 m 10 Y-boom/ Dals Eds Båtklubb SEK 100 B Quay delivery of fuel Snäcke canal 14 m alongside +46 76 781 10 58 and LPG by agreement. Some changes may occur in this information. incl. 2 km To Ed 14,5 m Pump-out station. Southerna end ** See nautical chart of Lake Stora Lee. Otteid 2 m 20 Y-boom/ Haldenvassdragets SEK 100 NW side of Engsvika, alongside Kanalsellskap Östra Otteid. Steinar Fundingsrud incl. +47 698 11 200

D B Fuel Fresh water Laundry-room Bathe Engine service Power points Toilet Grocer´s shop Restaurant Recycling centre 16 Shower Trailer ramp Bar/pub @ Internet 17 Using the locks information about our unique canoeing waters, including a Negotiating the locks is not as difficult as it perhaps appears. Begin canoeing map divided into sectors, campsite information, Dream holiday in your “own” boat by attracting the attention of the lockkeeper. After that you will be nature conservation – animals and plants, canoeing shown into the lock as soon as possible. The important thing is techniques, planning and safety. The booklet is a must for that you must follow the instructions given by the specially trained those who intend to go canoeing in the lake system of the Imagine cruising the beautiful lakes and canals of Dalsland for the boat. You get your deposit back when you return the lockkeepers. And remember that it is only the lockkeepers who Dalsland Canal! and Värmland in your very own boat. Or at least a boat that boat in clean, undamaged condition, fully tanked and with may open the locks and bridges. You can read more about the is yours for a week or two. Dalslands Kanal AB rents out the the same equipment it had when you picked it up. locks in the Description of the Canal (in Swedish only) on the motorboat Nimbus 2600. A warm welcome to an exciting adventure on the Dalsland nautical chart. and on the reverse side of the receipt for using the The Canal’s own home page - www.dalslandskanal.se Order your boat from Dalslands Kanal AB, phone canal – in your “own” boat! locks. There you will find most things that a boating fan may be +46 (0)530 447 50. The boat is insured, but you are In general, boats go through the locks in the same order that they looking for; facts about the Canal, latest news, lots of links, responsible for the franchise – which you pay like a deposit Read moore on www.dalslandskanal.se come to the waiting jetty. However, sometimes­ boats must be maps, offers, special information for those using their own FACTS taken out of order so that the available space in the lock can be boat or canoe, information about passenger vessels, monthly best utilised. The lockkeeper will give a sign when it is time to sail competitions, tourist information, accommodation along the Nimbus 2600 (1 available) into the lock. In all the locks there are two mooring ropes for every Canal, and, not least, the story about the Aqueduct. Built 1985 boat. One is placed round the cleat on the foredeck and the other round the cleat in the stern. Lake Vänern Type Motorboat, two cabins If you’re planning to cross Lake Vänern between Vänersborg Berths 4-5 Equipment and Köpmannebro, have a look at www.lakevanern.se. Length x Eidth 8,45 x 2,85 The following equipment is required on all boats: two Motor boathooks, 4-6 substantial fenders and, of course, life Trollhätte Canal Volvo Penta TAMD 30, 105 hp jackets. Due to the fact that the same lockkeeper can at When travelling the whole route to and from Göteborg, there is Cruising speed times be in charge of several locks, delays can be expected. 10-12 knots, maximum speed 15 knots an additional fee for the Trollhätte Canal. The fee is SEK The lockkeepers also have two breaks of 30 minutes each Fuel consumption About 1 L/nautic mile at cruising speed 1 000 (2015) one way. If you want to order the brochure ”Med day, which can be taken at varying times. fritidsbåt genom Trollhätte kanal (Pleasure Boating through the Other equipment Windlass, bow thruster, CD changer, shower on the bathing platform, gas range, A few rules for your own and other people’s safety! Trollhätte Canal), please contact the Swedish National Maritime GPS/sonar, shore power, radio, toilet, trim Administration/Lake Vänern naval traffic region, phone +46 • It goes without saying that you and your crew wear life- tabs, TV aerial, oven, water heater, heat. 771-63 00 00. jackets while on board. Canoeists must always wear life Prerequisites for renting Skipper must have proper knowledge vests when passing through the locks. of navigation and previous experience Disposal of human waste - Pump-out stations of operating boats of this size class. • For your own and other people’s safety, there is a ban on smoking and open fire when you are passing through a lock. The Dalsland Canal is known for its clean water. In some parts of Documentation is required. it you are actually travelling in pure drinking-water. Pick-up • Engines or machines should be turned off when you Friday from 3 p.m. In order to keep the water clean, we have a few simple but are passing through a lock. Return Friday before 10 a.m. important rules for handling toilet waste: Toilet waste must not Weekly rent Fishing be disposed of in man-made parts of the Canal or near guest 15 June - 19 June SEK 10 000 harbours or population centres. Please use the three pump- 19 June - 14 Aug. SEK 14 995 Fishing with hand-held equipment is allowed in many lakes out stations for disposal of human waste. Septic tanks may be 14 Aug.-21 Aug. SEK 11 500 but you must of course have a fishing permit. It is now even Lockage fee in both directions included. emptied free of charge at the following places: easier to fish in this area, since you can buy a fishing permit • Håverud - at the visit marina Deposit SEK 6.000 which covers almoust all the lakes which form part of the • Bengtsfors - at the visit marina Pick up and return the boat at Lock station in Köpmannebro Dalsland Canal. • Gustavsfors - at the visit marina The week-long permit costs SEK 400, and is available from • Dals Ed - at the visit marina the locks at Köpmannebro, Lennartsfors, Töcksfors and • Töcksfors - at the visit marina Gustavsfors, from the Dalsland Center in Håverud and from The pump-out stations’ suction nozzle are made of soft rubber and Vessels with the tourist office in Bengtsfors. will fit 32-50 mm deck flanges. Only in very exceptional cases may waste be discharged into the major lakes. Sewage disposals for historical appeal Insurance emptying of so-called Porta Potti toilets are available in most guest Dalslands Kanal AB have insurance which covers both harbours – see list of guest harbours. Occasionally the Dalsland property and personnel. The insurance covers damage Canal is visited by ships which can be proved to have been caused by short­comings, Service stations - guest harbours and boats that have an carelessness or negligence on the part of the company or interesting history or Within the lake system the Canal company has built service it’s personnel. If damage occurs it should immediately be stations at some places. There you will find WC, HWC, shower, unique appeal. inspected by the lockkeeper and the boat owner together, We think that’s great! sewage disposal and washing- machine/tumble-drier. For a and the latter should then send a damage report to the canal small fee you will have access to these buildings. You will find They may be old steamboats, manager. tugs, freighters or other service stations at the following places: vessels that are distinctive • Köpmannebro - lock station in some way. It’s a good Boats in canal traffic shall be insured • Baldersnäs - visit marina All boats sailing in Dalsland Canal are required to have valid • Gustavsfors - visit marina idea to contact the canal liability insurance for boat. The skipper/owner is responsible company to help plan your • Nössemark - visit marina for it exists (see “General provisions” on the canals website • Dals Ed - visit marina schedule. and on the lock receipt). In some cases we can also • Töcksfors - visit marina offer reduced charges or CanoeLand - for those who go by canoe or kayak even free passage through The name – Canoe Land – says it all... 40 pages of extensive locks. Read more on www. dalslandskanal.se.

18 19 Boat tour This map shows Europe’s most interesting boat tour alternatives! You can have your boat transported from Töcksfors to Ørje, Töcksfors to , Nössemark to Halden or the other direction, letting you experience a whole region in two weeks: Lake Vänern, the beautiful Dalsland Canal, the Halden Canal in Norway, the North Sea, the Swedish West Coast, Göteborg and the interesting Trollhätte Canal. You can also get to the Dalsland Canal from the Säffle Canal over land from Arvika to Årjäng. This is a shorter tour, from Lake Vänern, via the Säffle Canal to the Dalsland Canal and down into Lake Vänern again (or the other direction).

Nautical charts you’ll need: Port of Göteborg 9312 and 9313 Trollhätte Canal (Göta Älv) 1352, 1353 Lake Vänern (Vänersborg–Köpmannebro) 135, Båtsportkort Vänern Dalsland Canal Båtsportkort Dalslands kanal Lake Vänern with Säffle Canal 131–134, 1331 Halden Canal Båtsport og fritidkart Haldenvass- draget Halden–Göteborg Båtsportkort Västkusten norra and Västkusten södra Malmö/Copenhagen–Göteborg 921–925, 931

All of these charts can be ordered from any store that sells nautical charts. The lock keeper in Köpmannebro sells charts 1352, 1353. The lock keeper in Lennartsfors and the land transport company in Nössemark sell the charts for the Dalsland Canals. For info on the Halden Canal, contact Haldenturist +47 69190980. For info on the Säffle Canal, contact Vänerns Sjötrafikområde +46 520 472200.

You should not enter a lock if there is not enough time to get Land transportation through the lock before it closes for the day. Nössemark-Halden West coust-Dalsland Max. 13-14 x 3.9 m. 9-10 tons. Transportation of motorboats Locks Max. height 4.5 m. and sailboats. Also transportation Price given on request. Vänersborg/Trollhättan- Lock stations Number of locks Req. time per station Trav. time to Nössemark Båttransport Gothenburg. per station excl. waiting time nästa sluss the next lock Strandmon, Nössemark, Ask for detailed price. SE-668 91 Ed. LastväxlarCarlsson AB Köpmannebro 1 10 min 45 min Transport companies Tel +46 (0)70-346 40 41 Upperud 2 20 min 10 min Magne +47 91 61 51 10, Håverud 4 60 min 20 min Marius +47 48 05 78 59 Årjäng-Töcksfors-Arvika Buterud 1 10 min 40 min Max. 10 x 3.5 m. 8 tons. Mustadfors 1 15 min 10 min Västkusten-Ed Ask for price. Långed 4 60 min 10 min Max 15 m. 10 ton. LK:s Bilbärgning Långbron 1 15 min 25 min Transport av motor- och Norumsv. 5, SE-670 40 Åmotfors. Billingsfors 2 30 min 5 min segelbåtar. Tel. +46 571-304 00, 18:e 1 10 min 10 min Av- och påmastning +46 570-133 00 19:e och 20:e 2 30 min 15 min GH Lyft +46 070-672 04 00 Bengtsfors 2 25 min 160 min Tel. 0736-53 59 32 Lennartsfors 3 30 min 95 min All transports can be carried out Töcksfors 2 60 min West coust-Ed in the opposite direction. Max. 15 m. 10 tons. Bengtsfors 2 25 min 100 min Sailboats and motorboats. Gustavsfors 1 20 min 45 min Stepping and unstepping the mast Krokfors 2 25 min GH Lyft Tel. +46 (0)736-53 59 32 Köpmannebro 1 10 min 50 min Snäcke 1 20 min 45 min Strömmen 1 15 min

22 23 Welcome to

Åmål Åmål’s marina and Treat yourself to a canal tour motorhome camping in one of our passenger boats right at the heart of the town

You do not need your own boat to enjoy the Dalsland Canal. You do not even need Nössemarks Café to know the difference between port and starboard. Food-Camping-Marina The comfortable passenger vessels Dalslandia and Storholmen takes you on an Cottages/Flea market/Music unforgettable ride on the canal. June Sat 12-22, Sun12-17 Both ships serving good, home-cooked food. During the tour they pass the 1 July - middle of August Tues-Sun 12-22 150-year-old aqueduct and Baldersnäs Manor. See what happens on In collaboration with Dal Västra Värmlands Järnväg it will be a trip by boat and facebook.com/NössemarksCafé train, a fantastic tour. A good advice is to book the ticket in advance. For some reason, the tours are very popular. www.nossemarkscamping.blogspot.com

WELCOME! Maria & Pedro tel. 0706-96 08 92

M/S Dalslandia M/S Storholmen Dalslandia traffic the canal between Håverud and The turn of the century boat Storholmen has opera- Bengtsfors according to the timetable for the period ted Dalsland Canal since 1938. Storholmen operates June 25 to August 25 with departure from Håverud Håverud-Bengtsfors during the period June 18 to Monday, Wednesday and Friday and Bengtsfors Tues- August 31 with departure from Håverud Tuesday, day, Thursday and Saturday. If you buy a round-trip Thursday and Saturday and Bengtsfors Monday, ticket includes train ride back. Wednesday and Friday. In combination with the Group tours are welcome from May to September. train journey it will be an amazing tour. We also offer customized tours from May to September.

REDERI DALSLANDIA

Tickets and information +46 (0)530-310 27, +46 (0)70-66 59 603. Tickets and information +46 (0)70 54 10 633, +46 (0)70 33 82 550. [email protected], www.dalslandia.com [email protected], www.storholmen.com

Please note that ticket bookings are made to the respective shipping company. See you this summer!

Both vessels are inspected according to the Maritime Administration ISM Code and members of SWEREF.

25 Bengtsfors 26 ground.Internet. Wireless Utilities blockwithtoilets, showers andlaundrette. Publicparkwithplay- offering visitorseasyaccesstoservices, shops, restaurants andmore. Marina enjoying aprimelocation, rightinthe centre ofBengtsfors town, +46 531-72700•[email protected] RESTAURANT •TERRACEBARPOOLPLAYROOM h a H l m M w a e n o n T P u t d s e e o e h s i m x d c u r e t m s r , E i p l

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/ 2 3 FIRST HOTELBENGTSFORS several days,startingfromBengtsforsorÅrjäng. journey canbecombinedwithacanoetripforoneor trolley Bengtsfors-Årjäng (onlysummertime).The an unusualexperience. tours bycanalvesselandtrain.Bookatrainridefor Bengtsfors-Håverud-Mellerud. the countiesofDalslandandVärmland. and cycle-trolley straightintothemostscenicareas of side. You travelinasimpleandrelaxing waybytrain Join usforanexcitingtripthrough unspoiledcontry DVVJ, Dal-Västra Värmlands Järnväg Stationsgatan 66631Bengtsfors. Tel. +46(0)531-526801 The scenicrailway Kyrkerud, Årjäng, Tel. +46(0)573-711790 [email protected], www.dvvj.se Scheduledsightseeing -

Bengtsfors/Baldersnäs/Håverud duct. 1868, anexhibition aboutHåverud’s uniqueaque withAKVEDUKT Dalsland Canal 150thanniversary aclassicmillenvironment,In we celebrate the Jubilee summer2018 old throughout thesummer. enjoy café andrestaurant, shopsandfunevents for young and seum exciting exhibition aboutlife alongDalsland’s canaland andupdown thefouraqueduct locks. Visit- theKanalmu yourBring andwatch familyandfriends theboats that cross the Are YOU up toit? 1/5 to 1/9from 10:00. Weekends inSeptember. Dalsland Center andtheexhibition are every open day through Sweden´s mostbeautiful countryside. 11th ofAugust 2018. Sweden´s mostchallenging CanoeRace www.dalslandcenter.se [email protected] +46 (0)53018990 Dalsland Center - Kanalvägen 4 Kanalvägen Glasblåsning påDalsland Cen Glassblowing inDalslandCenterHåverud Souv Bruk Öppe Bokning ochi Spa bath-EnglishparkGuest harbour [email protected] www t: enir s &K Booking:+46531-41213531-41244 and classicaccommodations! Booking andinfo0709-969149,[email protected] Kanalvägen 4,46472Håverud•www.dalslandsglashytta.se Utility &Artisticglass•PotteryIronwork Five coursemenus- Vi h K analv Crafts house- er &Pr Candles •LinenSouvenirsGifts Open May-Aug.InSept.Sat-Sunbyarrangement. ons n Canoes forrent •Campingcards yr utk f o äg : en 4,46472Hå tglas •K esen Hos ossk anot You canshop:

t er •Glass Godis&V er ochsäljerc Animal farm er v amik &Smide• Ljus&Linne erud • W ine celler an nihandla

ampingk .baldersnas.com t er iH yk Accommodation 345:- ort. ort m.m. å from v erud 27

pp VälkommenWelcome to tilla 100 en yearnyrenoverad old grain silo UPPERUD 9:9 100-årig spannmålssilo vid HotellHotel BreakfastFrukost Brygga Jetty MusikMusic - where design meets history. Stay in Dalslandsone of our kanal. 5 unique Vakna hotel på sovloftetrooms i Welcome to våraoverlooking 5 unika rumDalslands där design kanal. möter historia. Book breakfast and dinner in our Frukostcafé or cookoch middag your own serveras food in till the förbokadehotel rooms. gäster i caféet. På rummen kan man även laga OPTIMISTENSLANTHANDEL egenDownstairs mat. in our great hall we host pub nights and concerts, private 200 m from the harbour 0531-200 01 Ievents, vår vackra weddings festsal andordnar conferences. vi musikkvällar och privata event GUSTAVSFORS såsomCheck ourbröllop web och for programme!konferens. Program nns på webben! OPEN EVERY DAY Fresh bred baked in the shop • Groceries • Gas • Oils • On-line betting Pharmacy- and representative for Systembolaget (liquid store) • Lottery and more Now also petrol and diesel. +46 707 498 779 Upperud / Håverud www.upperud.se Your shop

DALSLANDS KONSTMUSEUM DalslandsDalslands Louisiana!Louisiana!

SamtidskonstContemporary art– samling - collection – kafé - café

AktuellaCurrent exhibitions: utställningar: www.dalslandskonstmuseum.se

Tel. booking and transport Magne +47 69 18 42 00, Marius +47 48 05 78 59 Direkt viD kanalkanten | 0530-35135 | haveruD.se

Vänersborgs Håfveruds | Dalslands Kanal 80x60mm.indd 1 2017-11-23annons_dalslands-konstmuseum-kanalbolagets-jubileumsmagasin-80x60.indd 12:38EXPERIENCEStrömsborgs D ALSommarcaféSLAND C1 A2017-10-13N AL! 16:21 Lennartsfors Gästhamn och Marina COTTAGES & HOSTEL Open every day 12-20 (27 / 6-11 / 8) Vänern Good sandwiches, coffee, home cooking, ice cream, drinks, waffles, groceries etc.

- In the heart of Håverud - Strömsborg, run by volunteers from the village, is beautifully located, right next to the canal. During July we have many visitors who come by boat and car.

M/STrankils Folkets Hus

• Restaurant Nils Ericson af Håfverud • Grill www.dalslandswimrun.se Brief canal tours through the aqueduct in Håverud • Pizzeria Departs daily at 13:15 Date of effect 22/6 – 16/8 Full Service Marina with • Groceries Motor-Lift-Boat equipment-Fuel RÄSHRIMPK–KRYSSNINGAR CRUISES Wednesdays and Saturdays at 19:00 Winterizing and Boat Rentals • Cottages (mini kitchen, shower and toilet in all cabins) altealternativelyrnativt laxtallrik salmon vid större for sällskap larger groups • Outdoor spa ALL ALTOURSLA T UTAKERER ABOUTTAR CA 3.5 3,5 HOURS TIM Place for motorhomes • Canal tours SKRCUSTOMIZEÄDDARSY DIN YOUR EGEN CRUISE! KRYSSNING! CALL FOR INFO! FULLY LICENSED RING FÖR INFO! ServingServe rionng board, ombor d,sandwiches, smörgåsa rcoffee/tea, kaffe/te i intrev pleasantlig miljö surroundings.. Fullständiga Fullyrättigh licensed.eter. For more information and prices visit our website ForFör more mer iinformationnformation oandch prpricesiser s visite vå rour he mswebsiteida Dalsland Swimrun www.vanersborgsgasthamn.se • [email protected] UppeUpperudsvägenrudsvägen 4, 464 72 Håverud 4, • Tel.464 0530-103 72 10 • [email protected]åverud • www.thevisitor.se • Tel. 0530-103 10 • [email protected] 2•5 a uwwgustwi 2.thevisito018 r.se Tel. +46 (0)521-657 09 • Mobile +46 (0)705-91 29 90 28 29

www.vanerparken.com • [email protected] Tel/fax: +46 (0)521-657 09 • Tel: +46 (0)521-675 55 0,08 m

1 naturist mil = 1 852 meter

Holmerudsfors

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Laxsjöns Friluftsgård you buyyourlockpass. MakesureEnglish andGerman. youpickupacopyofthebrochure when Canal goessmoothly. Thebrochure isfree andisavailableinSwedish, Brochure givingtipsandadvicetoensure ontheDalsland yourjourney a success.Price:SEK170includingpostage. mation youneedtomakeyourcanoeingholidayontheDalslandCanal campsites,infactalltheinfor Detailed maps,countrysideinformation, on coated,water-resistant andtear-resistant paper. isprinted Price: SEK490excludingpostage.Theboatsportpermit services andcanalhistory. ItisonlyavailableinSwedish. tion aboutnavigableroutes, guestharbours,sights,usefulfacts, - The nauticalchartwithcanaldescriptiongivesyoudetailedinforma Order onwww.dalslandskanal.se nauticalchart orsendamailto [email protected] Tips for asuccessful canaljourney Canoeing country Nautical chart Welcome to celebrate withus! This year we are150. [email protected] •www.dalslandskanal.se Tel. +46(0)530-44750•Fax 55 Dalslands KanalAB•NilsEricsonsväg •Upperud46472Håverud

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Follow usonFacebook Air-draught: 17metr 4.05metres Beam: metres Length: 22.75 The maximummeasurements for thecanalare: or telephone+46(0)530-44750. Office formore [email protected], information, here. Would youliketojoinus?Pleasecontactthe Canal really ofold,excitingboatsafloat liketoseeanarmada as ourguestforacoupleofweeksinJune2018.We would A freighter oraworkboat.We wouldlovetowelcomeyou It maybeabeautifulwoodenyachtorrivetedtugboat. historic orclassicboatwhichfitsintoourlocks. has already begun.Nowwewanttocontactanyonewitha rally, wewanttocelebratethisinstyle.Andtheplanning In 2018,theDalslandCanalwillbe150yearsold.Natu- Tel. +46573-14136,www.arjang.se, [email protected] DalslandCenter, SE-46472Håverud.Tel. +46530-18990 www.dalsland.com/mellerud, [email protected] Tel. +46531-526355,www.dalsland.com/bengtsfors, www.dalsland.com/dalsed, [email protected]. Tourist offices alongthecanal: Torget 4,SE-66830ED.Tel. +46534-19022 Sågudden 1,SE-66630Bengtsfors. Storgatan 64,SE-67229Årjäng. e-mail [email protected] es BENGTSFORS HÅVERUD ÅRJÄNG ED

Produktion och tryck: Dalslands Kanal AB, Elanders Falköping. Foto: Ove Eriksson, Jerker Norlander, Lisa Nestorsson, Øyvind Lund, Herman Ahlin, Benny Ruus, Ingemar Myrén, Per Nyström Nils Axelsson.