Day 1: Enchanting Nature and Art in Sunne

Once upon a time in Sunne. That is the natural start for this odyssey in northern Värmland. What better way to start the journey than in the magical Sunne? Here awaits the perfect mix of grand nature experiences, a medley of cultural history wow, and authentic accommodations well worth a detour. And indeed, it is fitting that a fairy-tale region offers magical hiking in all its glory. The Mine Tour in Gräsmark is more than just an ordinary mile hike. Along the hike, there are mines with rock walls where rusty red copper residues from mining over time have become bluish-green canvases that light up. Nature art! Once back above ground, it is never far to the next cultural force. Take the road past Selma Lagerlöf’s Mårbacka which inspires with its timeless creativity (even during selected autumn days) and Alma Löv’s inimitable art installations (open during summer) for the next vibrant impact. And speaking of vibrant impressions. During the summer, Rottneros Park is as much a must-visit as it is beautiful. The park, with its sculptures and garden formations, is a delight for the eyes. Here the story could end, but Sunne has more to tell. Why not finish the day with a mesmerizing performance at Västanå Theater? In the amazing Story Barn (which is Värmland’s largest barn), theater is pure art. You frame the experience ideally with the theater package at Ulvsby Manor. That way, you get comfortable accommodation, a familial manor atmosphere, and delicious food as the perfect crescendo to your wonderfully strange day in Sunne.

Day 2: Ski Mecca and Värmland Flavor Tradition in Torsby

After a breakfast focused on locally produced ingredients at Ulvsby Manor, the day’s adventures await. And it goes up in more ways than one. Following E45 with Lake Fryken constantly in sight, you reach, via a detour to the left, breathtaking heights. Tossebergsklätten between Sunne and Torsby is a viewpoint that tops most. From the climb, you see all of Fryken, the blue mountains, and the surrounding forest. And that’s just a taste of what nature has to offer in Torsby. 75 nature reserves, top ski resorts like Branäs, Långberget, and Hovfjället, and renowned good fishing waters are just some of the natural assets. And it doesn’t end there. Take the opportunity to experience Torsby Ski Tunnel, which, with its indoor environment, offers perfect cross-country ski trails and snow status regardless of weather. Familiar faces on the track? Not unlikely. Here, the Swedish ski elite often hangs out during camps. After a few hours on the ski track, you can replenish your energy in the Värmland way. Then, mottin is a must! The archetypal dish with fried buckwheat flour, pork, and lingonberry jam is a specialty. Enjoy the meal at Kollsberg’s heritage farm which has a lovely high location by the northern tip of Fryken. Reflect on the day’s many impressions at the culturally historic Sahlströmsgården. Here, the Sahlström family has for generations made the place a center for artists. Wander through the exhibition and check out the store with Värmland products. End the evening with dinner in the hotel’s ambitious restaurant and sleep soundly with a view of Lake Sirsjön.

Day 3: Hello, Hello Monica in Hagfors and Preserved Heritage Farm in Ransäter

New day and time to head south to the next Värmland locality worthy of praise: Hagfors. In line with the journey as a whole, there are enough nature escapades here for a longer stay. And after having aired hiking boots and cross-country skis earlier in the trip, Värmlandsgården invites to water-close activities aplenty. Experience the calm with canoe paddling or test your balance on a SUP board. And after such exertion, you can well reward yourself with calories model faster. Sit down at the classic Coffee Cottage which offers home-baked in a confectionery style. And what would a visit to Hagfors be without slowly walking through town to the museum that celebrates Monica Zetterlund, the songbird who grew up here? The museum is a wonderful time capsule with loads of gadgets and stage clothes that belonged to Monica. Round off the trip in the same well-preserved historical style at the neighboring Munkfors. Pass by one of Sweden’s largest heritage farms in Ransäter and take in the whole adventure in peace and quiet. And just feel good. A fairy-tale journey has just had a happy ending.