Björbo: Rapids, Hiking Trails and Culture

Björbo combines impressive river scenery with active experiences and cultural discoveries. Fänforsen is a defining feature: a wild, fast-flowing stretch of rapids measuring 900 metres in length with a drop of 9 metres. It is considered one of the largest river rapids south of Norrland. Those planning a trip with different focuses can combine water-based experiences, paths along the Västerdalälven and historic sites here.

Fänforsen: Whitewater and Nature Experiences

Fänforsen is a nature rest area where you can fish. Fishing is practised using the catch-and-release method. Water sports are also part of the character of the area: competitions in freestyle, canoe slalom, whitewater downhill racing and kayak cross are held annually at Fänforsen.

Those who do not want merely to watch whitewater can find a specific experience with Dala River Adventure. The company offers whitewater rafting on the rapids of the Västerdalälven from Nås down to Fänforsen in Björbo. During the rafting tours, participants can try a large raft for 8 people and a small raft for 2 people on the same tour. This opens up different options for planning the day together, without all travellers having to choose the same type of water-based experience.

Art and Historical Traces

In addition to Fänforsen, the „Konst i byn“ exhibition takes place during the summer season. The project has been run since 2015 by the art group „Färg och form i Björbo“. This means that a stay by the water can also be combined with a look at local art.

Prästbuo shows another facet of Björbo. The site has historical roots dating back at least to the 17th century and is a summer pasture farm located directly by Källbäckens by. There are opportunities to rest and spend the night there. For those interested in rural history, Prästbuo is therefore a destination in its own right alongside the nature and water-based experiences.

Hiking between Salå, Dala-Floda and Mejdåsen

Stage 10 between Salå and Dala-Floda follows the Västerdalälven along old paths and a railway embankment. It is an easy route to walk. This stage also offers the opportunity to spend the night in the hut at Prästbuo. Those looking for a hike with historic trail features and a connection to the river when planning their trip can take a closer look at this stage.

Fäbodledsområde 10 includes a centre at Mejdåsen in the immediate vicinity of Björbo. Access is described specifically: park by Tempo in Björbo and cross the old stone bridge towards Mejdåsen. This allows you to distinguish between the area around Fänforsen, the stage along the Västerdalälven and Fäbodledsområde when planning your trip.

Getting There and Choosing Accommodation

Fänforsen in Björbo can be reached by car via the E16. The site is also easily accessible by bicycle or on foot; there is a Dalatrafik bus stop near Fänforsen. When searching for a holiday apartment or holiday home, you should therefore first decide whether the rapids, rafting, trails or historic sites are the focus of your trip. Your prioritised day-trip destinations will then provide an objective guide to the location of your accommodation.

For further orientation, you can also visit the pages on Gagnef, Näset, Sandviken and Gräv.

To the higher-level travel overview: Gagnef.