Valberg, a small village nestled about twenty kilometers from Leksand, the flagship city of the Dalecarlia, may not look like much at first glance. The roads leading there seem to take you to the heart of the most remote countryside in the region, but don't let that fool you: this discreet hamlet hides a hiking that we loved.
It was impossible for us to resist the call of the march during our 5 day roadtrip around Lake Siljan. As you know, hiking is one of our favorite ways to discover a region, and even more so since we live in Sweden.
If you also want to experience this " slow life » Swedish style, be sure to plan a stop in Välberg to explore this beautiful loop.
Here's everything you need to know:
A starting point full of charm and surprises
The roads to Välberg can seem a bit confusing, but trust your GPS and the signs! The starting point is in a hamlet located on the hills, where you will be greeted by a red chalet which marks the start of the hike.
The latter will immediately immerse you in a charming atmosphere : you will find wooden boxes containing maps to help you find your way, pebbles with hand-painted eyes that children can place along the route, or even a box filled with handcrafted creations to buy on the principle of trust (typical of Sweden!).
For those who wish, walking poles are also available – remember to bring them back at the end of the hike!
A 6 km hike between lakes, forests and hamlets
The loop makes about 6 km, with the possibility of extending slightly depending on the path you choose. It is a hike relatively simple, punctuated by a few climbs, but accessible to all, even families with children.
What particularly appealed to us was the variety of landscapes: an ancient refuge, breathtaking views of forests and lakes, a picturesque hamlet with typical red farms, and peaceful lakeshores with mirror-like reflections.
Some marshes also shelter a rich fauna, perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Finally, picnic areas, shelters and campfire sites dot the route, allowing you to fully enjoy this getaway in the heart of nature.
Practical information for a successful hike
We discovered this loop in late summer, and some paths were still wet. If you plan to come outside of the summer period, check the conditions beforehand: snowshoes may be necessary in winter.
We are convinced that this hike will charm you as much as it has seduced us. If you pass by, do not hesitate to share your impressions with us!
And to follow our adventures more closely, go to our Instagram account!