Värmland borders many other Swedish regions, but also shares its western border with Norway. Here the Klar River runs through many cities and towns, from Höljes in the north to the residential city of Karlstad to the south. The river has shaped the surroundings, and many enjoy calmly rafting downstream to experience the beautiful wilderness up close.
In Karlstad, the Klar empties into Vänern lake. Here there is a rich cultural life with numerous museums, such as the Värmland Museum, which neighbours the Sandgrund Lars Lerin art museum. Poet Gustaf Fröding was born in Alsters manor, which is today operated in his memory the site hosts theatre performances, exhibitions and a cafe overlooking the Vänern.
One person often associated with Värmland is Nobel Prize winner, Selma Lagerlöf. At the Mårbacka manor outside Sunne you can see her childhood home and the place where she wrote. Rottneros park features sculptures in an expansive garden environment, and also served as the model for the fictional manor Ekeby. Children can play in the Nils Holgerssons Adventure park nearby.
Many trips to Värmland will focus on the more northern and western areas, such as Arvika and Torsby. Both offer ideal starting points for treks into the wilderness and the chance to encounter a moose while fishing, swimming or hiking in the deep forest. The Torsby ski tunnel lets you practise cross-country skiing year-round, while if you prefer natural snow you can choose the downhill slopes in Branäs or go cross-country skiing at Långberget, both near Sysslebäck.
There are several domestic airports nearby, depending on your destination in the region. To the south you will find Karlstad Airport, and if you are looking to visit Karlskoga then Örebro Airport is the closest, while Torsby Airport serves the northern points with Hagfors as another option. Public transportation is operated by Värmlandstrafiken and you can reach various points by bus or train.
A weekend in Värmland offers you a number of opportunities to walk in the footsteps of cultural creators and enjoy the beautiful environments that they drew on for inspiration. Whether in summer or winter, there is always a way to enjoy the outdoors here.
