Spiken’s inland fishing harbour is one of the largest in Europe; the village is also one of the most active fishing areas on Lake Vänern. This focus is reflected in specific experiences for visitors: freshly smoked fish, Vänern vendace roe and guided autumn tours. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Spiken, these details can help you decide whether fishing and food culture suit your planned stay. Cycling, walking routes and waterside activities also contribute to the character of the area.

Harbour and waterside activities

Inside the fishing harbour is a well-equipped guest harbour. This means the guest harbour and inland fishing operations are in the same harbour area. Spiken also has a slipway for launching boats and a bathing jetty. The Läckö–Spiken paddling route has good launch points for visitors with their own canoe or kayak. Before your trip, check which launch points are available on your planned date.

In Spiken, fishing with hand-held tackle is permitted free of charge from both land and boat. Check the current fishing regulations before fishing.

Fish, food and crafts

Freshly smoked fish is available to buy in Spiken; availability and opening hours vary by operator. Vänern vendace roe, the roe of the vendace, is sold while that year’s supply lasts; availability is seasonal and quantities vary. In autumn, visitors can join guided tours connected with the traditional Vänern vendace roe fishery. Sales therefore depend on the annual supply, while the tours are tied to the autumn season. Check current tour dates if you are planning to join a guided tour.

Several restaurants and cafés serve food right by the water. Businesses and menus can change, so it is a good idea to check current offerings before visiting a particular restaurant. Artur’s story is part of the history of the local food culture: when he came to Spiken, he told his landlords how vendace roe—the roe of the vendace—was handled in Kalix.

Local artisans offer, among other things, rag rugs, clothing, ceramics, art, jewellery, wirework, skincare products and their own spice blends. The local retail mix can change.

Cycling, walking routes and getting here

Läckö Castle is close to Spiken, on a cliff jutting out into Lake Vänern. Cyclists can ride between Spiken and Läckö Castle on the first completed section of the Läckö Trail; later sections may change.

On Kållandsö, a route of about four kilometres leads through woodland and over rocks, with beautiful views of Lake Vänern and Läckö Castle. When choosing, consider whether you prefer a cycling connection between Spiken and Läckö Castle or a roughly four-kilometre route through woodland and over rocks on Kållandsö.

Västtrafik bus route 132 runs year-round between Lidköping and Spiken. Check the timetable before travelling, as schedules may change.

Discover more destinations: Hagalund, Lidköping, Mellby, Järpås, Tun.

Back to the main travel overview: Lidköping.