Along locks and lakes
The first stop on the Swedish side of Unionsleden is Töcksfors in western Värmland. Here you can find the northernmost and highest locks along the Dalsland Canal – one of the most beautiful waterways in Europe. In Töcksfors, the Unionsleden track passes just below the Turistgården, which is situated on a green hill overlooking the canal and lake Töck. Here you can spend the night in comfort and choose from several types of accommodation. A little further east is Töcksfors Camping, which has nice cabins overlooking lake Foxen. Stock up on food or make other purchases at one of the shopping centres
After a good night's sleep, it's time to start the journey south towards the idyllic old industrial village of Lennartsfors. Don't forget to bring a picnic so you can stop along the way and enjoy a little snack.
Västra Fågelvik
The landscape is hilly and stretches through small villages and forests. After six kilometres, lake Foxen opens up in front of you – a spectacular sight. The beautiful church of Fågelvik is located on a cape. If you are in need of a refreshing swim, you're lucky – you'll soon pass a bathing spot. At Sundsbyn you'll cycle over a high bridge where you'll have a great view of the Foxen, maybe you'll see one of the recreational boats or canoes that travel along the canal.
Holmedal
Now you'll continue on a winding gravel track through the forest. Take the opportunity to stop at Nordmarkens Distillery, which produces home-made malt whisky and vodka-based drinks full of flavour. In summer they also operate a café. Once in Holmedal, you'll cycle along the Church Path, now a walking and cycling path, but once used to get to church services in Holmedal Church.
Lennartsfors, an idyllic old industrial town
After a few kilometres, turn south. Now a winding and hilly route unfolds. The scenery slowly changes, from fields and views of open countryside to more of a wilderness as you reach the large border forests between Värmland and Dalsland. If you want to stay overnight at Folsom, the hostel in Blomskog, turn off the Unionsleden just after Ängebäck. Otherwise, just pedal on towards Lennartsfors. The former industrial town is idyllically set with its canal locks that connect Foxen with lake Lelång. It is a popular meeting place for boat and canoe tourists in summer. Take the opportunity to stroll along the canal and don't forget to stop by Lundvie Keramik or Lapp-Elisa, a paradise for textile lovers. Sleep well in one of Bergstugan's freshly renovated rooms. Here you can also sit outside and enjoy a fantastic lake view. If you're hungry, you can sit on the front porch of Strömsborg Mat & Café and watch the boats gliding in towards the lock gates. At Elovsbyns camping and canoeing just north of Lennartsfors you can rent a canoe and paddle around the area.
