Tracing History in Santo Domingo
September 21, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic is a must-visit for history buffs who are interested in the beginnings of the New World or the Americas as it is now call it.
It is the oldest colonial city on the continent and you can be sure to capture a glimpse of the first street, the first church and the first colonial village in this part of the world. Aside from its historical significance, charming colonial architecture and ruins, it is also known as a party destination especially during the celebration of the famed Dominican Carnival. You add to that the plentiful palm-fringed and white sand beaches and you can’t help but agree that it makes for a perfect getaway.
The main tourist draw to Santo Domingo is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Zona Colonial where colonial architecture reigns. Lazy strolls are called for in the colonial zone, which allows for easy enjoyment of its cobblestone alleyways and centuries-old buildings. Check out Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor which was completed in 1540 making it the oldest cathedral in America. Its coral limestone facade may not look that impressive but take a look at its well-preserved interiors and its beautiful high vaulted ceilings to better appreciate this more than 600 year old place of worship.
Calle El Conde is also an attraction in itself, not only for being the oldest in the continent, but also for shopping boutiques, cafes and restaurants that line this famed thoroughfare. Also worth visiting are: the forts of San Jose and de la Caridad, the ruins of Puerta de la Misericordia and the 15th century Alcazar de Colon.
Just outside the colonial zone is Malecon. It is a thriving commercial center that is a favorite among tourists not only for shopping and dining but also for beach combing and partying. If you want to experience the best party atmosphere, join the Carnival and Merengue Festivals and you wll find the entire quarter turn into one big discotheque pulsating in the rhythm and excitement of music and revelry.
If you wish to check the museums of Santo Domingo, proceed to Plaza de la Cultura in the district of Gazcue. This is where you can find several museums such as Arte Moderno, Historia Natural, Historia y Geografia and Hombre Dominicano. Culture vultures can also enjoy the performances at the National Theatre. You may also want to drop by Palacio de Bellas Artes to catch a performance of the National Symphony Orchestra. If you are a lover of the art, visit the pedestrian street of Boulevard 27 de Febrero and check out the local art scene in the many galleries found in the area.
Picnics, lazy strolls and nature tours are perfect in Santo Domingo Botanical Gardens. It spans a staggering area of 2 million square meters making the word garden quite a misnomer. Don’t miss the Japanese Garden, its one of the best attractions in the vicinity and a definite must-see.
Other attractions worth checking out in Santo Domingo are: Faro a Colon or the Columbus Lighthouse, the magnificent cavern of Los Tres Ojos and its lagoons, and the National Aquarium and its giant manatee. I am sure you will agree Santa Domingo will be on your list on re-visits!
The Garden Route of South Africa
September 19, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
The Garden Route of South Africa is the ultimate destination for nature lovers seeking spectacular natural surroundings, breathtaking panoramas and exciting hiking opportunities.
The Garden Route will take you along splendid beaches, charming villages and ancient forests. Your options are practically endless when taking this route and how long or how far you will go entirely depends on which places you personally find interesting. The area is so beautiful and appealing and you can continue a very long way exploring this enchanting South African destination.
Hiking is the best form of transport when exploring the Garden Route. It offers three of the best hiking trails in the country. Top on the list is the popular Otter Trail that is a must on any serious hiker’s bucket list. It is only about 27 miles long and will take at most 5 days to finish but it is not an entirely easy hike. There are challenges along the way as you cross rivers, climb steep cliff tops and navigate your way down rocky and rugged terrain.
Start from the scenic Storms River Mouth and follow the blue otter marks until you reach the gorgeous Nature Valley in Tsitsikamma National Park. You will pass by plenty of truly exhilarating landscapes so make sure to take it all in and take photos. Since you will be hiking along the dramatic coastline, stop and rest every once in a while and look out for whales or dolphins putting on shows in the distance.
If you do not have time to explore the area on foot but don’t want to be deprived of the view, you can always take a similar trip on board the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe. It runs between George and Mossel Bay, much shorter but you will still get to cross rivers without getting wet while being accompanied all the time by the spectacular sights and the dramatic coastline.
Another alternative is to just pick a particular area along the Garden Route, drive or hire someone to drive you there and enjoy the rest of your holiday amidst stunning natural beauty. Those looking for a tranquil retreat will find the unspoiled beaches and beautiful scenery of Great Brak a delight.
You can also go further to the village of Gouritsmond where you can spend the day on a rewarding fishing trip or go bungee jumping from the bridge of the Gourits River. You can also enjoy the Tsitsikamma from above the trees by taking on a canopy cable tour to zip your way across the forest.
Those who are not big on adrenalin-pumping adventures can try a relaxing canoeing trip around the Knysna Lagoon or dine aboard a Paddle Cruiser in the area. You can also visit the Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary and the Birds of Eden Sanctuary.
If you are itching for a fantastic round of golf, there are several delightful courses to choose from such as the four golf courses of Fancourt, the signature Oubaai Golf Course or the links course at Mossel Bay.
Or, you can simply pick a beach of your choice, work on your tan, cool off with a refreshing cocktail and enjoy the wonderful view of the ocean before you.
The Charms of Lund – Sweden
September 17, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
The university city of Lund, Sweden is a good day trip destination from Malmo or Copenhagen, which is less than an hour’s ride away. It is also easy to catch a train from Gothenburg and Stockholm that will take you to this charming old town retreat.
Lund is a compact enough city that can be easily covered by foot. Its old world atmosphere makes it a delightful place for lazy strolls and relaxing sightseeing. You can start your tour at the 11th century Lund Cathedral or the Domkyrkan. This massive Romanesque cathedral is one of the largest in the continent. Aside from its architecture, it also features several other attractions such as the astronomical clock, the crypt and the cathedral’s organ concert that is performed every Saturday morning for free.
From the cathedral, you can proceed north and visit the Lundagard Park where you will find the 16th century King’s House and the University buildings nearby. Make sure to pass by the picturesque street of Sandgatan on your way there.
The university library is also worth visiting to catch sight of the 12th century manuscripts and more than 2 million volumes of books it keeps. Not far away from the library is the Botanical Garden where you can check out more than 7,000 species of plants from different parts of the world. It is a good place for lazy afternoons where you can have a quick sandwich before you proceed to your next destination.
Across from the university grounds is Kulturen or the Museum of Cultural History. This open air museum houses dozens of old buildings that reflect much of the area’s culture and history for the past two hundred years. There are also Viking artifacts, old carriages and handicrafts on display. If you happen to visit during Christmas, you can check out the Christmas Bazaar hosted in the premises of the museum and buy some good souvenirs of your Lund visit. Another museum worth visiting is Historiska Museet that displays artifacts from the Stone Age up to the Middle Ages.
To meet Lund’s friendly locals, check out the market square of Martenstorget. You will also find plenty of fruit, vegetables and flowers here. It is a good place to buy some fresh produce to keep you fueled up. There are also some medieval structures to check out in the area such as the Krognos House and the Market Hall.
For some Swedish art displays, the Art Gallery is just nearby for a quick stopover if you like. There is also the City Park at the south side of Lund, which is the venue of Walpurgis Night at the end of April. If you happen to visit at this time, you can join the locals as they light a big bonfire and celebrate till the wee hours of the morning.
Finally, if you still have time to spare, you can visit Bosjokloster Castle just 19 miles north of Lund. It is beautifully situated in the scenic shoreline of Ringsjo. Aside from the picturesque location, it also features the Skane Wildlife Park and the hundreds of animals housed in the area.
Romancing Hawaii – The Garden Isle of Kauai
September 15, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
You do not need to travel half way around the world to find the perfect romantic getaway. Hawaii is one such destination. Aside from its awesome natural beauty, you also get to enjoy the comfort of staying on US territory and not worry about getting lost in foreign translation while you are there.
For couples who want to experience lush foliage, picturesque mountain scenery and stunning beaches, the island of Kauai is a perfect choice when planning to spend your honeymoon in Hawaii.
Although the area has plenty of beaches to offer, the romantic vibe of Kauai lies outside its sun-kissed coastlines. Go for a drive around the island and get acquainted with charming traditional villages, magnificent waterfalls, gorgeous waterways and breathtaking natural vistas.
Start at the east shore and drive past the residential area of Wailua until you find yourself facing the mighty Wailua River. Go on up Kuamoo Road where you will be treated to the picturesque view of Opaekaa Falls cascading noisily down to the river below. You can then take the winding road nearby and visit the traditional Kamokila Hawaiian Village where you will find plenty to learn about the cultural heritage of the Kauai’s warm and hospitable natives.
If you love to go frolic amidst verdant surroundings, go on up Kuamoo Road and follow the marked trails to the peak of the Sleeping Giant. It is an easy enough hike but the spectacular panorama waiting on top will surely make it one of your favorites. The Keahua Forestry Arboretum at the end of the Kuamoo is also a romantic place to visit where you can just enjoy each others company in natural breath taking surroundings, go swimming or take short hikes while you are there. Of course, the Wailua River is also a wonderful place for adventure where newly weds can enjoy the romantic environment on a kayak or go for a more exciting ride along the rapids on a raft.
Proceed to Kauai’s north shore where dramatic ocean panorama and mountain vistas will welcome you. The Napali Coast is the ultimate destination on Kauai and is where white sand beaches, azure waters and sunny days are yours to enjoy. Also, make sure to visit Kilauea where a gorgeous lighthouse can be explored. The area speaks of romance and makes for a perfect setting for two people in love. There is also the nearby Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge for avid bird and wildlife watchers.
The grassy park area of Anini Beach makes for a great picnic stop. If you feel like getting back to where the action is, stop by Princeville where resort facilities, luxury hotels, exciting nightlife and upscale restaurants can be found. From the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Princeville, you can then visit the iconic Kauai panorama of Hanalei. This vast field of greens, the majestic mountains at the background with waterfalls cascading down and the pristine Hanalei Bay makes for a fun, picturesque and very romantic day trip destination.
For snorkeling enthusiasts, take advantage of the so-called tunnels at Ha’ena Beach Park and its amazing underwater wonderland. Ke’e Beach is also a fantastic snorkeling site but what makes it even more special is the spectacular sunset that fills its sky with dramatic colors when the sun kisses the horizon farewell for the day.
Finally, to cap off your Kauai romantic getaway, drive south and discover the breathtaking Waimea Canyon (often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific). The lookout points from Koke-e State Park are the perfect sites to view this dramatic geological phenomenon. Also, not to be missed is the nearby Kalalau Valley whose lush vegetation, oh’a trees and brightly colored flowers viewed from a vantage point above, make for an unforgettable Kauai experience.
Relaxing in Malmo – Sweden
September 13, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
At the southern tip of the province of Skane is the idyllic port city of Malmo. The small fortified port back in 1272 has evolved into a one of the biggest cities in Sweden. Today, it has become a major destination in the country thanks to the opening of the Oresund Bridge at the start of the 21st century.
If you are one of those who love to visit parks, Malmo has several to offer. A family favorite is Folkets Park, not too far away from the Malmo’s airport. The park opened in 1893 and has been a popular entertainment venue for both locals and visitors alike. There are plenty of restaurants scattered around the area and an amusement park is also located within the park.
During summer, concerts can be enjoyed in the park’s grounds or you can simply sit back, have a picnic and enjoy the view. Another popular public park in the city is Pildammspark. You can catch a performance at this park’s open-air theater or look around the Margareta Pavilion and the Exhibition Halls. Of course, the park’s centerpiece – the soaring 253ft-high Hyllie Water Tower – is a must visit. Finally, there are Kungspark , a favorite summer hangout, and the Slottspark where the famous Malmo Castle can be found. Both are located at the west of Malmo’s Old Town.
If you are a museum-goer, then there is plenty to go around in Malmo. First up, the Municipal Museum housed in the 16th century Malmo Castle at Slottspark. The museum’s exhibits are quite varied, with bits and pieces representing the region’s natural history, archaeology, culture and art.
You can just cross the short distance from the castle grounds to visit the Museum of Technology and the Seafaring Museum nearby. If you are interested in carriages and the evolution of the motor car, there is the Carriage Museum, dedicated to this historic form of transport, in Drottningtorget, located east of the city center.
From the Carriage Museum, make a detour to the nearby atmospheric district of St. Gertrude where you can grab a bite and enjoy the view of beautifully restored houses from the Renaissance period. If you want to see more of these charming old structures, you can visit Lilla Torget where plenty of 16th-18th century old burgher houses can be found. Some of them have been transformed into guesthouses and you might consider staying in one for the unique experience it offers.
You can also enjoy a beach excursion while in Malmo. It features a sandy beach where you can sunbathe and swim during summer or take on the challenge of an icy dip and an invigorating sauna steam bath rotation come winter.
Moreover, there is the seaside resort of Skanor-Falsterbo to check out. It offers an idyllic beach getaway in a picturesque locale with plenty of seaside flora and visiting bird species for you to discover. Finally, for a quick day trip jaunt, you can catch a ferry from Limhamm that will take you to the charming Danish fishing village of Dragor.
Rangiroa French Polynesia
September 11, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
If you are an avid diver wishing to visit French Polynesia then you should make Rangiroa your base location. It is the diving capital of the country mainly because of the large atoll that can be found in the area. It is so vast in fact that it is considered as the second largest in the world. With this to boast of, you can be sure to find some of the most colorful and picturesque underwater havens in Rangiroa.
There’s no lack of breathtaking diving sites to choose from. You can take your pick from among the 240 islets that make up Rangiroa Atoll. Just choose a spot and you can be sure to meet hundreds of underwater creatures such as various schools of colorful fishes, playful dolphins, terrifying sharks and impressive eagle rays, among many others all awaiting your viewing.
You don’t want to pass up on the opportunity to “shoot the pass” when in Rangiroa. Shooting the pass is basically a term used for swimming along the current that will take you from Moana-tea to Moana-uri or from the tranquil lagoon to the wilder flow of the ocean undertow. Just make sure you have an experienced diver with you especially if you are still a novice at diving.
If you are looking for more activities other than diving, charter a bottom glass boat and effortlessly enjoy the stunning spectacle of the underwater garden in luxury. If you want to get near the action, you can just gear up with a snorkel and jump right into the water. Some of the best snorkeling sites are Toeo?o, Papiro and L?Ile Aux Recifs. If dolphins are your thing, then go watch a school of them horsing around the passes of Tiputa and Avatoru. However, if bird watching is your preferred activity for the day then head out to the island of Ile aux Oiseaux where several bird species await.
If you want to leave the shore for a while so you can explore inland, you may want to check out the many villages and interact with the locals. It is also best if you bring some sandwiches with you so that you can stop by Tiputa Point, spread a blanket and enjoy your lunch with the spectacular panorama of Rangiroa spread out before you.
Of course, the island’s beaches are some of the best in French Polynesia. Aside from the usual sun-kissed white sand beaches, the island also features romance-inducing pink sand shorelines. The most famous among them is the dazzling Les Sables Rose. Many of the Rangiroa resorts also feature spectacular beaches where you can easily spend the entire day within easy reach of the luxuries and amenities of an opulent resort.
However, you may need to pay premium if you wish to visit the island. Since it is located in Tuamotu it means one hour of additional flight from Papeete, French Polynesia’s capital. But with the magnificent scenery and remarkable experiences you will find on the island, money is going to be the last thing in your mind when you get there. Oh – and please don’t forget your camera!
Nature Tripping in Puerto Rico East Coast – Culebra Island
September 9, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
Admittedly, Puerto Rico’s capital – San Juan – is the country’s most popular destination due mainly to its accessibility and historical attractions. However, it does not offer much in terms of natural grandeur and outdoor adventures. If you are more interested in the latter and do not care much for history, then you could skip the capital and head directly to the rugged and exciting east coast where spectacular beaches, thriving wildlife and verdant forests await.
There is no shortage of thrilling activities and fantastic destinations in the east coast. It has some of the Puerto Rico’s most beautiful natural attractions that any tourist will find enchanting.
Top on the list is the piece of paradise called the Culebra Island, home of the breathtaking Flamenco Beach. If you are expecting the usual crescent-shaped white sand beach, you can’t be more mistaken. Playa Flamenco has a rare horseshoe shape and a palm fringed beach of dazzling white sand. With no surf on the water but a gentle lapping along the shore, it is perfect for swimming, diving and snorkeling. However, mostly because this beach is simply spectacular and easily accessible, it is usually crowded with locals and tourists alike.
If you want to escape the crowd, there is another fantastic beach getaway on the island. It is the more remote, less visited but no less stunning Playa Zoni. Go northeast and ask a local resident to point you to the dirt road that ends right at the beach. If it ois nesting time, you may find more than a few turtles lounging around and sharing your destination.
If you feel like going island hopping, Cayo Luis Pena is not too far away. It is easily accessible by water taxi but if you are great at kayak, you can also paddle your way to the island. Hikers will find its trails challenging, snorkeling fans will be delighted underwater and wildlife enthusiasts will have a grand time bird watching. There are also several coves and smaller beaches in the area that are worth exploring BUT make sure that they are not closed for turtle nesting season before you go there.
You can also proceed to Isla Culebrita just a mile away from Culebra. It is famous for sea birds and turtles nesting in the area. You can also choose from among the six beaches on the island depending on whether you want to go swimming, canoeing, kayaking or rafting. You can also go trekking – just make sure to stay within the marked trails to avoid getting lost in the wilderness.
Culebrita also offers opportunities for wildlife sighting and bird watching. Another popular attraction on the island is a lighthouse that dates back to 1886. It is said to be the oldest operating lighthouse in the entire Caribbean and makes for a romantic background for your island photo.
Speaking of photos, the island is truly exquisitely picturesque, so pack a good camera with you because you don’t want to miss the opportunity of capturing all the stunning views that Culebrita has to offer.
Nature Tripping – Puerto Rico – East Coast
September 7, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
Culebra may be the most popular attraction in Puerto Rico’s east coast however, you don’t have to spend most of your time on the island because there are plenty more spectacular destinations that are worth checking out. Venture out further and you will soon find yourself surrounded with the beauty of nature at its grandest.
Next to the island of Culebra in popularity rating is El Yunque National Forest. With about 23,000 acres of tropical forest, 24 mile-long trails and a thriving flora and fauna population, it is any nature tripper’s haven. Wild life watching, trekking and hiking are some of the most popular activities in the area.
The El Porta Tropical Forest Center is the place to go if you want to learn more. It features interactive exhibits as well as a canopy walk where visitors can view the panoramic expanse of the forest. If you want a different perspective, climb up the Yokahu Tower and enjoy the scenic vistas it offers. Nearby is La Coca Falls whose 85 ft. cascade is stunning as it falls on dramatic rock formations below.
If you are not yet satisfied with what El Yunque has to offer, visit Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve in Fajardo. Rent a kayak and paddle your way along the waterways of the island. There are also several ecosystems to explore such as a mangrove lagoon, a coconut plantation and an underwater garden. It also features a dry forest where you can go on hikes if you like. A visit to the 1882 lighthouse located here is also a must. Come night time, a kayaking tour of the ethereal Laguna Grande should be on your list of things to see! It is a bio-luminescent lagoon where the water glows like magic and any visitor is guaranteed to glide through it in awe and bated breath.
While at Fajardo, you may want to spend a day at the uninhabited islands of Icacos, Lobos and Palominos. You can easily charter a boat from the marina and you will be on your way to a whole day of snorkeling and diving. These islands also feature dazzling white sand beaches where you can just lounge around to your heart’s content. However, if you don’t have much time to spend but want to experience a delightful Puerto Rican beach getaway, worry not. Loquillo beach is located near San Juan and it definitely can hold its own against the more popular powdery white sand beaches of the country.
Finally, there is the island of Vieques where the beaches are stunning, the water sparkling and there are not too many tourists around. Its remote location and gorgeous terrain make it a perfect escape from the crowded beaches of Puerto Rico. It is also home to a bio-luminescent bay that glows brighter the one in Fajardo. If your guide will allow, you can take a dip and see your body literally glow as if enchanted by a magical creature. This is an amazing experience you and should not be missed when visiting Puerto Rico.
Nature Retreats in Gothenburg Sweden
September 5, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
Gothenburg is a famous cultural and gastronomy destination in Sweden. Museums, restaurants and shopping destinations are some of its biggest attractions. However, there is more to the city that these enticing offerings. Nature lovers or simply those who are looking for a beautiful and quiet escape in the bustling metropolis will find plenty of nature retreats to discover and enjoy while at the area.
One of the most popular and often visited nature jaunts in Gothenburg is the vast green space of Slottsskogen Park at the Linne area. You will find big oak trees and rolling hills at the park which make it a perfect destination for relaxing strolls or afternoon picnic breaks. It is also a favorite summer recreation spot where locals congregate for a fun game of football or Frisbee.
If you do not have a picnic basket with you, there is a restaurant on site where you can enjoy a scrumptious meal with a verdant view. If you have kids with you, then you should plan a visit to the nearby theme park and the zoo (enjoyable even without kids).
If you love the view of tranquil lakes and relaxing greenery then check out Delsjon Nature Reserve and its two resident lakes. Camping, trekking, fishing and canoeing are some of the most popular activities in the area. If you are interested in camping, you will be glad to know that you can bring along a caravan and hook-up at one of its 170 caravan pitches or you can just simply rough it out in a tent if you want. During summer, you can take a cool dip at the lakes or simply bask under the sun at the area’s picturesque beaches.
Those who think that Delsjon is a bit taxing and are looking for a more sophisticated alternative, will find the Gothenburg Botanical Garden truly inspiring. The day will pass by in a blink as you go around exploring its manicured grounds and its 20,000 plant species beautifully laid-out. You may not have the luxury of time to see all of the garden’s spectacular attractions so it is best to check out the most popular areas from the start.
The rock garden, is first up because its sheer beauty has earned it world-renown and sought-after accolades. There is also the Japanese glade that is just perfect if you are looking for a stunning and tranquil spot. Also, check out the garden’s exquisite rhododendron and orchid collections. Of course, the rose garden is a must-see especially when all of its 4,000 rose plants are in full bloom. If you still have time to spare, you can cross the short distance to Tr?dg?rdsf?reningen Park and catch a live concert usually held on its grounds.
Finally, if you are looking for a wonderful beach getaway, you will be ecstatic to know that you are only a few minutes away from the dazzling West Coast Archipelago. You can just pick a secluded spot by the beach if you want to go sunbathing or swimming. But, if you want to go for a more exciting adventure, then island hopping is a better fit for you. Make sure to pass by the Feskekorka fish market for the freshest seafood provision before you start out your day exploring the islands of the stunning archipelago.
Natural Attractions in Uppsala – Sweden
September 3, 2011 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
Aside from the historical treasures that Uppsala, Sweden is mainly visited for, it also offers spectacular natural scenery that outdoor enthusiasts will definitely fall in love with. It is a nature lover’s destination as much as a historical enthusiast’s haven. Whether you love to go on long hikes, paddle along canoe trails or a tranquil afternoon of fishing, you will find your own personal space to enjoy in the beautiful outdoors of the county.
If you don’t have much time to spare, there are nature reserves located near the city. While you are visiting Hammarby you can easily pass by Hagadalen-Nasten whose open air recreation area is the perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts who love to go walking, horseback riding and even skiing during winter.
You can also travel towards North Lunsen and enjoy the sweet smell of its pine forest as you stroll around. For a longer hike, take the Upplandsleden trail and you can stay for the night at the Lundsen cabin. Finally, avid walkers who want to rough it out and would like to explore a wilder environment will find the primeval forest of Fiby Urskog truly exciting.
If you are more of a paddler than a walker, then you will be glad to know that there are also several canoe trails in Uppsala. Of course, there is the Fyrisan River that winds through Lake Dannemora all the way to the Uppland forests, passing by the Iron grave mounds and spilling out into the Lake Malaren. You can go free style but for an easier trip, you can just follow the established trail starting from Vattholma, past the field of Valsgarde and the boat burial site, all the way to scenic Ulva Mill and finally finishing at the popular water park of Fyrishov.
Another popular canoeing trail can be found at Kolarmoraan River from Lake Vallen. It will take you through woodlands, pine forests and lush greenery. Along the way, you can make several stops to go fishing or swimming. When you go canoeing, make sure to get a brochure from the Tourist Information Office first as it shows which areas are the best pit stops along the way.
Those who are enthusiastic about fishing will find the ancient forest lakes a fertile ground for casting your line. If a few days of fishing is what you have in mind, then the Fyrvapplingen fishing camp is a must. It offers all the fishing facilities you will need such as cabins, trailer hookups, fishing tackles and boats to name a few.
However, if you are only in for a quiet afternoon of fishing along a scenic riverbank, Alvkarleo bruk is the perfect place for you. You can start with an exploration of the beautiful grounds of the 18th C manor, its museum and several other attractions in the area. You can then follow the trail to the banks of Dalalven river, cast your lines, enjoy the scenery and wait for that one big bite. Make sure to bring along a basket of food because it is also a perfect place for a picnic you can enjoy when nothing exciting is taking bait at the end of your line!
