Natural and cultural values
Throughout our operations, we strive to respect the natural and cultural values that define our region. Below, you will find a small excerpt from a comprehensive list of the many well-known values in our vicinity. We have chosen to focus on the most prominent areas.
Nature values
The entire northern part of the Klarälven River (from Höljes to Edebäck) is a Natura 2000 area. The river’s natural yearly rhythm, with changing water levels, creates unique habitats that certain plants and animals depend on. There are sandbanks that provide a home for rare beetle species, steep sandy slopes (called “nipor”) where sand martins nest, and alder swamps, as alder trees are better than most at withstanding long periods of flooding.
The Svartälven River flows through the borderlands of Dalarna, Värmland, and Västmanland. Filipstad Municipality has classified the area as being of national interest for nature conservation, meaning it is considered important from an ecological perspective. The stretch of the river where our guests paddle is not part of a protected area, but there are three nature reserves nearby. These are mainly protected for their birdlife, and one of them also has a rare moss species. On Storön in Lake Bredreven, there is a forest biotope protection area.
Culture Heritage
The foundation of Vildmark i Värmland is built on the culture and traditions of log driving, an important part of our historical heritage. Log driving on the Klarälven River was first mentioned in the 1730s and continued all the way until 1991, leaving behind traces of various log driving structures along the river.
During the Middle Ages, a pilgrimage route ran through the Klarälven Valley, guiding travelers on their way to Nidaros(modern-day Trondheim) in Norway. The churches in Dalby, Norra Ny, and Ekshärad all house medieval artifacts. The area is also rich in history, with remains of hunting pits, charcoal production sites, water-powered sawmills, and more—reminders of a time shaped by hard work and self-sufficiency.
The Svartälven area holds many traces from the Stone Age, including several discovered settlement sites. Finds such as stone axes and tools reveal early human activity in the region. The area also has a strong mining and metalworking history. Since the 1600s, iron production and ore extraction took place in Älvsjöhyttan and Lesjöfors. In Gustavsström, a blast furnace, forge hammer, and sawmill operated in the mid-1700s. However, today, the old furnace is completely submerged due to later dam constructions.
Embrace Discovery, Knowledge, and Respect
As our guests, you’ll be exploring a unique and valuable natural and cultural landscape. We hope to spark your curiosity and aim to make your experience truly immersive through stories, images, videos, and hands-on activities. You’ll be an active participant—building your own Timber Raft, helping with loading and unloading gear, and taking responsibility for your journey.
We believe that a memorable experience in nature also fosters a deeper appreciation for its value—and the importance of protecting it.