The Lelångenleden is a newly established 112-mile (180 km) cycle route in western Sweden that offers an accessible and scenic bikepacking experience. The trail connects the Bohuslän coast north of Gothenburg with the lakes of Dalsland and the forests of Värmland, providing largely flat, traffic-free gravel roads ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
This route features wild swimming spots, canoe access, and cabins along the way, making it a unique gateway to Sweden’s wilderness. Cyclists can enjoy the combination of lakeside towns, forest landscapes, and historic sites, including a segment along the embankment of the discontinued Lelången railway.
Why this matters
The Lelångenleden trail represents a growing trend in Sweden to promote sustainable tourism and outdoor activities such as cycling and wild swimming. It is part of a broader effort by regional tourist boards to develop new cycle paths that encourage exploration of Sweden’s natural beauty while supporting local economies. The trail’s affordability and family-friendly design make it accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Key developments
- The Lelångenleden trail links coastal, lake, and forest regions, offering a diverse landscape for cyclists.
- It includes traffic-free gravel roads and a section along a former railway embankment.
- Wild swimming and sauna experiences are popular activities along the route.
- Accommodation options range from eco-campsites and cabins to hotels and lock keeper’s cottages.
- The trail is supported by West Sweden Trails, which provides planning tools and bike rental services.
Route highlights and experience
The journey typically starts in Uddevalla, a coastal village with scenic views over the Byfjorden and a seaside boardwalk named Sweden’s most beautiful road. Nearby is Gustafsberg, Sweden’s oldest seaside resort, featuring a historic lido and traditional bathhouses.
One of the first stops is the eco-campsite at Ragnerud Lake, located at the foot of the Kroppefjäll plateau. Here, visitors can enjoy canoeing, sauna sessions, and meals made from local forest ingredients such as mushrooms, lingonberries, and dill flowers. The campsite owners emphasize the simplicity and slow pace of life in the forested surroundings.
The route continues through the Dalsland Canal area, known for its natural lakes and locks. Cyclists can pause at lock houses converted into summer cafes and stay overnight in historic lock keeper’s cabins. The region’s varied terrain includes forests, mountains, and lakes, described by Prince Eugen of Sweden and Norway as a microcosm of the country.
Further along, the former lumber town of Bengtsfors offers hotel accommodation and dining options focused on seasonal, local produce. The surrounding woods are home to abundant wildlife, including roe deer frequently seen crossing the roads.
The final stretch leads through dense coniferous forests to the mill town of Gustavsfors and then on to Årjäng, where the trail concludes. Along the way, cyclists encounter numerous opportunities for photo stops, cold-water swims, and social coffee breaks known as fika.
Additional cycling infrastructure in the region
West Sweden is actively expanding its cycling network. The Västkustleden, a new national cycle path, is under development and will connect Gothenburg to the Norwegian-Swedish border. The Ljungleden trail, opening this month, links two popular routes: the Kattegattleden in Gothenburg and the Ätradalsleden in Falköping. These developments reflect the increasing popularity of cycling as a summer activity in Sweden.
Planning and practical information
- The Lelångenleden route can be planned and booked online using West Sweden Trails’ planning tool.
- Bike and bikepacking gear rentals are available through the Dalsland Experience tour organiser and bike shop.
- Accommodation options include eco-campsites (pitches from £20, cabins from £75), hotels such as First Hotel Bengtsfors (doubles from £96 B&B), and lock keeper’s cottages (from £200).
The Lelångenleden offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure, making it a compelling destination for cyclists seeking an immersive experience in Sweden’s wilderness.
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
