Live like a lord in Baldersnäs

Arriving at Baldersnäs Herrgård on two wheels is like rolling into a leafy paradise. This splendid art nouveau manor house is surrounded by a glorious park. It is the perfect place for a stop with a manor house picnic during your cycling adventure, or why not treat yourself to a romantic overnight stay and gourmet meal?

Rest your legs at Baldersnäs Herrgård

Baldersnäs Herrgård is the most southerly point of Unionsleden, before the cycle trail swings northwards again towards the dense Dalsland forests and border area towards Värmland. But here on a peninsula in Lake Laxsjön, leafy deciduous tree avenues, pastureland with grazing sheep and large expanses of inviting grass dominate the landscape and ring the imposing white art nouveau manor house. Arched bridges with white railings and the glittering lake provide the backcloth to its harmonious atmosphere. Lying down on the grass in the shadow of a large deciduous tree in the leafy park after several hours of pedalling is sheer bliss. It is easy to see why Baldersnäs is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dalsland.

“It’s a fantastic environment. The nature is so peaceful and calming. We want our guests to have a harmonious and holistic experience for both body and soul, from our stylishly furnished rooms and wonderful walks to delicious food of the highest quality,” says Malin Ljungqvist, Hotel Manager at Baldersnäs.

Hotel rooms with magnificent views

The hotel has 30 exquisitely styled rooms for overnight guests. The rooms in the manor house building overlook the magnificent park and are styled with a turn of the century feeling, some rooms still have the original tiled stove. Rooms in the two modern wings close to the water are styled with modern furniture made in partnership with Stenebyskolan, the local arts and crafts college.

The common balcony offers spectacular views over Lake Laxsjön. More basic accommodation is also available in the white painted youth hostel Annex, previously the estate office.

Food and drink in focus

In the evening, food and fine wines from the extensive wine cellar are in focus in the manor house with its large old-fashioned and atmospheric dining rooms. The restaurant, Öjentorps Kök, is recommended in the White Guide and serves dinner based on local seasonal raw materials and produce sourced in the surrounding area, including from the manor house kitchen garden.

“Our very popular five-course taster menu has become a real classic. It is the veritable icing on the cake during a stay at Baldersnäs,” says Ljungqvist.

Even if your cycling schedule does not allow enough time for an overnight stay at Baldersnäs, their popular manor house picnic is definitely worth ordering. The café by the avenue that leads to the manor house offers a delicious cold meal with dessert - neatly packed in a cardboard box. You can enjoy it on the grass or seated at any of the tables in the extensive park. If you have a thermos flask, they will be happy to fill it with coffee.

To Håverud via the Dalsland Canal

Many guests at Baldersnäs stay two nights and take the opportunity to go on a cruise on the Dalsland Canal to Håverud. Baldersnäs has its own jetty where guests can jump onboard and then take the railbus back to Långbron, five km away, from where they can get a lift back to the estate. A two-night stay luxury kayak package is also increasingly popular. After a good night’s sleep and breakfast, the day begins with a kayak guide who will give you advice on technique for 90 minutes. You can then stow your packed lunch in the kayak and explore Lake Laxsjön as the fancy takes you. In the evening, a delicious dinner awaits, after a good sleep you will also have time for a short kayak outing the next day.

“If you are a beginner, it can feel both reassuring and educational to get to know your kayak with an experienced guide. And for cyclists who want to rest their legs for a day, a kayak trip is a fun and different experience,” says Ljungqvist