Pilgrimsleden (the Pilgrim Route) – Dalsland

Pilgrimsleden is the longest of Dalsland's hiking trails and runs across the entire county, from Vänersborg in the south to Edsleskog in the north. It follows the route that medieval pilgrims took on their way to the Nidaros cathedral in today’s Trondheim. The trail is very varied and scenic, and if you’ve walked the whole of Pilgrimsleden, you’ll understand why Dalsland has been divided into two parts since time immemorial; the valley of the plains and the valley of the forest.

Pilgrimsleden begins directly north of Dalbobron, which connects Västergötland with Dalsland. You pass right by Ursands Camping, which is perfect if you want to start off with a night’s stay or a proper coffee break. After a short section with nature trails and summer cabin areas, the trail connects to the old country road.  From there, the trail goes north along easy walkways and country roads, which are great for cycling too, past farms and grazing land.

You’ll pass by church after church on the way to Mellerud, many of them from the medieval period. One which stands out isGrinstad Kyrka, which was built in the 13th century. The church’s clock tower was built after the church itself and the foundations in the ground have caused the tower to lean over heavily today.  Soon you’ll reach Mellerud, where Holms Kyrka symbolises the midway point of Pilgrimsleden.

Now the country roads change into small trail and hilly terrain with 56 km left until Edsleskog. You’ll cross the E45 motorway and after 10 km you can take a well-earned rest at Upperud 9:9. There you’ll find a cafe, accommodation and information about the trail.

Right by Upperud 9:9, is Dalslands Konstmuseum (art gallery) with changing exhibitions and art history from Dalsland.  You can also take a short detour to Håverud from here and Dalslands center with its famous aqueduct, boat tours and restaurants, as well as Håveruds Hotell.

As you continue your hike, you’ll cross the Dalsland Canal by the Upperud lock. From here the train goes straight north, right into the wilderness. Some difficult sections, hilly terrain and long slopes, which will all reward you with fabulous views.

The hike take you to huge lakes and places with names that seem to be taken straight out of a fairytale - Flat, Djup, Ulvahålet. Forest lakes and long ridges are characteristic of the local scenery, and in the summer it’s brimming with blueberries and mushrooms. Along the northern part of Pilgrimsleden, there are several camping spots with fireplaces and wind protection for overnight stays.

When you finally reach your destination in Edsleskog, you may want to stay a night at Edsleskogs Wärdshus, which is situated in a beautiful location next to the Edslan lake. You can also get onto Storspåret from here, a 20 km long trail that will take you all the way to Åmål. From there you can easily take public transport back to Mellerud, Vänersborg or Gothenburg.

100 km, Vänersborg – Edsleskog

Hiking time: 4-5 days

Difficulty level: Easy/moderate

Marking: Orange markings and signs