Kayaking on Strömsholms Canal
The Strömsholm Canal is 110km in total length, beginning in Lake Mälar near Strömsholm and ending in Smedjebacken. The route is made up of a sequence of lakes connected by short man-made canal sections, and has 26 locks in total.
Building of the canal began in 1772 and was completed in 1795. The canal was originally constructed to transport iron from steelworks along the way, but today is used only for recreation.
Duration: 5 days
Dates/Period: 19.05-23.05.08, 16.06-20.06.08, 14.07-18.07.07, 11.08-15.08.08, 08.09-12.09.08, 06.10-11.10.08.
Groups of min.4 can book this experience on other dates by arrangement.
Price: from £679/adult, £608/child under 15
Accommodation: Hotel, guest house and hostel accommodation along the route.
Required: You should be in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness and strength. No previous kayaking experience necessary.
This guided kayak experience takes you through a system of lakes dotted with forested islands and fringed with sandy beaches, combining the beautiful natural landscape of the Strömsholm Canal with the chance to discover picturesque villages and learn something of the local history of the area.
Accommodation is in hotels, guest houses and hostels along the route, where you can recharge your batteries and recount your impressions of the day's paddling adventures while sampling traditional cuisine prepared from local ingredients. Clothes and equipment not needed during your days on the water will be transported to your next overnight stop, leaving you free you to paddle light during the day.
Depending on when you decide to travel, you will be experiencing central Sweden in the full bloom of spring, the endless, heady days of summer, or the rich colours of autumn. From its start point on the lake of Norra Backen to the end of the tour at Virsbo, there is plenty to enjoy and discover on your voyage through the many interconnecting lakes of the Strömsholm Canal, whether it is the World Heritage village of Ängelberg with its wooden foundry or the chance to learn about the activities of the industrious beaver that interests you most.
This is an ideal tour for those seeking a combination of relaxing kayaking, expert local guiding, comfortable accommodation and good food - a flexible and accessible experience for solo travellers, families or groups. If you wish, you can even choose to swap your kayak for a Canadian canoe!