Grums and the northern part of Lake Vänern offer paddlers a variety of fantastic environments. From calm lakes and protected rivers to Vänern’s impressive northern archipelago, with coves and islands to explore.
The best places for paddling in Grums!
Borgvik
In beautiful Borgvik, you can rent a canoe or kayak at Vänerkajak, where you’ll find everything you need: a store, rentals, and courses. Here, you can enjoy stunning views in a historic landscape on the beautiful waters of Lake Vänern.
Värmskog
In Värmskog, it is Virmil Restaurant that handles the canoe rentals. Here, you can paddle on Lake Värmeln, which offers opportunities for both short and longer trips, all the way to Arvika!
Liljedal
In the archipelago idyll of Liljedal, you can enjoy the best that Vänern has to offer! The water here is sparkling and serene, providing paddlers with an adventure they won’t soon forget. Liljedal Beach Club is responsible for the rentals!
Paddle safely!
- Always wear a life vest – Choose one that fits comfortably and securely, over all clothes, preferably in a bright color for better visibility.
- Check the weather forecast – Lake Vänern can quickly get large waves, so check the weather beforehand and be aware of sudden weather changes.
- Bring a mobile phone – Always have a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case, easily accessible even if you fall into the water.
- Let someone know where you’re going to paddle – Inform someone on land about your route, start time, and estimated end time for safety.
- Bring a change of clothes – In case of cold water temperatures, have dry clothes available in case you fall into the water.
- Avoid boat lanes – Don’t paddle in boat lanes, cross them quickly, and keep an eye out for boats.
- Pack properly – Place the heaviest items at the bottom of the kayak for better stability, and use waterproof bags for items sensitive to moisture.
- Bring a flotation device – For longer trips on open water, bring a flotation device and other safety equipment, and make sure you can use them in case of capsizing.
- Better to abort than take a chance! Don’t overestimate your ability! If you’re a beginner, it might be better to take a paddling course or join a group trip rather than going out alone!
Canoe tours through Grums municipality!
At Arvika Canoe and Tourist Center, you can book canoe trips through the stunning waterways that western Värmland offers, including the Värmeln tour that takes you to Värmskog.
Svanskog’s Canoe Center also offers a canoe trip through Grums, where you can paddle from the town of Grums and head north towards Värmskog.
Do you know the differences between kayaks and canoes?
Kayak
- Design and shape: Sleek and streamlined, longer and narrower. Closed deck construction with one or two cockpits.
- Seating and paddles: The paddler sits on a fixed seat with legs extended forward and uses a double-bladed paddle.
- Stability and maneuverability: Better maneuverability and speed, especially in rough water and narrow waterways.
- Uses: Suitable for sea kayaking, whitewater kayaking, as well as solo or group activities.
Canoe
- Design and shape: Open design with higher sides, wider for increased stability.
- Seating and paddles: The paddler sits or kneels on a bench/bottom and uses a single-bladed paddle, switching sides to maintain direction.
- Stability and maneuverability: Higher stability on flat water, ideal for calm activities like fishing and family outings.
- Uses: Suitable for day trips, lake and river exploration, as well as group or family activities with high load capacity.