5 outdoor adventures in West Sweden's countryside

Positioned at the southern tip of Lake Vänern, an hour's drive north of Gothenberg, the towns of Trollhättan and Vänersborg offer ample opportunity for adventure. With easy access to forested hiking trails steeped in legend and freshwater swimming coves tucked into bare cliff faces, these neighbouring towns showcase the pure beauty of West Sweden’s rural landscape. To immerse yourself in the region's natural splendour, here are five unforgettable adventures to have during your visit.

1. Hike the table mountains

Just east of Vänersborg, the table mountains of Halleberg and Hunneberg offer dramatic hiking terrain with steep-sided ravines, tumbling waterfalls and rocky gorges. A total of 15 hiking trails weave through Halle-Hunneberg Ecopark, allowing for the chance to explore stacked, sharp-edged boulders, towering oak trees and the mirror-like waters of Hallsjön — the only lake on the Halleberg Plateau. Overlooking Lake Vänern, Halleberg is said to be the site of Valhalla, the mythical home of the Nordic gods. Rising over 500ft above the landscape, it’s also home to Scandinavia’s largest hill fort, with numerous archaeological sites — filled with hidden remnants of walls and fortifications — spread across its dolerite slopes. Such is the power of this ancient, legendary landscape that by the end of your hike, you may just believe in the Nordic gods, monsters and trolls yourself.

2. Cycle the Vänerleden

The Vänerleden bike trail is one of Sweden’s National Cycle Routes, winding around the banks of Lake Vänern for 398 miles. Divided into four stages, the route is backdropped by lush, ever-changing landscapes, from the shallow bathing spots of Vänersborg’s Skräckle Park to the wetland walking trails of Segerstad Nature Reserve. Rent a bike from local providers — such as Velostore — before joining the circular route, with each stage taking between three to four days. There are plenty of accommodation options with bike storage facilities along the trail, as well as bicycle repair shops for mending punctures, borrowing equipment or storing items while on the move.

3. Swim in Lake Vänern

Packing a swimsuit and towel is always a good idea when visiting Sweden. Lake Vänern, Europe’s third-largest lake, is a freshwater paradise. With 10 miles of coastline, there are plenty of inviting spots to dip your toe into. Near Vänersborg alone, you’ll find five public swimming areas — from the sandy shores of Park Skräcklan, featuring an outdoor trampoline and stalls hawking prawn sandwiches, to Gardesanna, a shallow bathing area complete with waterfront cottages and a boat harbour. Choose to camp at Ursand, just over a mile north of Vänersborg, to take advantage of the campsite’s spa and sauna.

4. Fish for salmon and trout

The clear waters of Lake Vänern appeal to more than just swimmers. Home to 38 fish species, including salmon, its shores are often populated with avid anglers. While there’s no license required to fish here, anglers must adhere to the rules dictating fish size and type. Beyond the lake, the Göta River is renowned for its giant salmon and trout, and there's opportunity to catch some pike and perch as well. Just make sure to acquire a permit from the local tourist office first.

5. Cruise along the Göta River

To admire Trollhättan and Vänersborg from the water, take a boat cruise along the Göta River, stretching 58 miles from Lake Vänern to the Kattegat Sea. During the summer, board the M/S Elfekungen in Trollhättan for the two-and-a-half-hour Trollhättan Tour, where you can take in views of waterfalls and a neo-gothic church before stopping for refreshments at Slusscaféet, housed in a former bridge guard’s cottage. To explore the towns’ waterways on foot, follow the final two stages of The Pilgrim Trail Göta River, winding through the Åkersström and Åkersberg nature reserves, the Trollhättan locks and central Vänersborg.