In the center of Säffle lies the only lock on the Säffle Canal; this section is also the only excavated part of the canal. This gives the waterway a clearly defined stretch through the town—a concrete starting point for exploring Säffle’s history by the water.
Canal History in the Townscape
The Säffle Canal is an approximately 80-kilometer-long waterway from Säffle to Arvika, Sweden’s most inland port. A historic walking trail runs through the canal area, between historic buildings in the town center. The waterway thus extends far beyond the town, while the walking trail and lock focus attention on its central section. The workers who built the Säffle Canal in the 1830s once lived in Stenmagasinet. This account of the workers adds the canal’s history of construction to the architectural perspective. The canal’s construction in the 1830s took place well before the water tower was built in the early 20th century.
Architecture and Art
Säffle’s old water tower was built of brick in the early 20th century, based on a design by architect Ivar Tengbom. Today, it houses a restored art gallery that regularly holds summer exhibitions. The exhibition program is therefore seasonal. Säffle Zoo is a collection of sculptures by artist Eka Acosta. Emoticon Circuit is a public art installation near Säffle simhall and Tegnérskolan. These examples take different forms: an art gallery with summer exhibitions, a sculpture collection, and an installation in a public space.
Routes for Pilgrims and Mountain Bikers
The route between the town of Säffle and By Church is part of the Pilgrimsleden Västra Värmland pilgrimage trail. For mountain biking, the 8.6-kilometer MTB Tegner Trail offers a different kind of route: it is marked in orange, rated technically easy, and passes through old-growth forest. It also includes some challenging climbs and fast sections; roots and stones lie along parts of the trail. The technical rating should therefore be considered alongside the described sections and the trail surface.
Water, Fishing, and Swimming
Zander is fished in the Byälven in the center of Säffle. The fishing area is divided into three zones with different conditions. Before your visit, check the fishing rules and seasonal access for each zone. Säffle simhall has a 50-meter pool, play areas, and a relaxation area. If you plan to visit Säffle simhall, check the latest operating information beforehand.
A Break by the Canal
Kanalcaféet serves ice cream and coffee beside the canal’s gently flowing water. Its opening schedule may vary seasonally, so bear this in mind when planning your café visit.
Discover more destinations: Kila, Högsäter, Svanskog, Nysäter, Långserud.
Return to the main travel overview: Säffle.
