Let us present the area between the two lakes, Vänern and Vättern, Upplevelseområde Göta Kanal, with activities and sights surrounding the canal in the district communities of...
Mariestad Gullspång Töreboda Tibro Karlsborg
Göta Kanal - commonly called "Sweden's Blue Ribbon"- crosses the country and links the Baltic Sea to the Western Sea.
... not only on water!
Its former importance as a transportation link long since lost, today the canal has all the more to offer for your amusement and recreation.
Foto: Bodil Hedin

Ideal environment for the active vacationer!
There is always something happening on and around the canal. Festivals, fishing, cultural events, adventure, canoe races, accordion meets, Hova Riddarvecka (celebrating the medieval knight) - just about anything imaginable. You decide just how active your vacation should be.

Foto: Håkan Tegnestål
Beautiful wooden houses
The journey begins at Mariestad, Lake Vänern's pearl. In the summer you may want to join a guided tour of Gamla Stan (the Old Town). The Cathedral is definitely worth your visit, as well as Vadsbo Museum and Mariestads Industrimuseum. Börstorp castle with its much appreciated summer exhibitions is another popular place. Next stop will be the locks at Sjötorp. Do take a look at Hamnmagasinet (the Harbour Warehouse) with the notable Kanalmuseum.

Foto: Jonny Johansson
Pedal a trolley and visit Hova Riddarvecka
To the north is Gullspång. Here you can rent a trolley and pedal along the track of the now closed railway between Gullspång and Torved. Book a package including trolley, lodging and meals!
During the second week in July Hova is totally transformed. The entire town will take you back to the middle ages featuring tournaments, jesters, medieval food and a children's "Land of Knights".
Things to enjoy along the canal
Next stop is Töreboda, with Lina, the world's smallest ferry. Cozy cafés are located along Göta kanal, as well as comfortable youth hostels and well-kept campsites.
Bikers using the former towpath often favour the youth hostels. At the tourist office you may rent a bike or purchase a complete bike package.
Foto: Thomas Harrysson
Furniture centre
After a short detour we end up at Tibro, where six furniture stores and a yearly interior decorating fair reflect an established furniture business. It is also a great place for motor sports including international motor-cross races.
The oldest lock
At Forsvik you will find the canal's oldest and highest lock, built in 1813 and still in use. The industrial environment with roots from the medieval period comes alive with exhibitions and cultural events every summer. Karlsborgs Fästning (a fortress) is an absolute must for the visitor who wants to be well informed, but also a great place for fun. Fästningsäventyret (the Fortress Adventure) is for those who want to experience the fortress in action.
Foto: Bodil Hedin
Tiveden
The national park at Tiveden boasts a primeval forest dotted with a number of small lakes.
Hiking trails wind their way through deep canyons and scenic high country. You will be walking through a forest often depicted in the works of famous Swedish artist John Bauer.

For further information, contact one of the tourist offices in the area.