10 Things to Do Along the Umeå River in Umeå, Sweden
The Umeå River, or Umeå älv in Swedish, is a major river in the northern Swedish province of Västerbotten. It is the longest river in the country, and the second-longest in Scandinavia, running some 522 km from the Norwegian border to the Gulf of Bothnia. The city of Umeå is located on the river, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy along the riverbanks. Here are 10 of the most popular things to do along the Umeå River in Umeå, Sweden.
1. Take a Boat Tour: A great way to explore the Umeå River is to take a boat tour. There are several companies offering boat tours along the river, offering visitors a chance to see the river from a different perspective. The tours usually last around two hours, and you can choose to go during the day or in the evening.
2. Kayak or Canoe: If you’d prefer to explore the river at your own pace, you can rent a kayak or canoe from one of the many companies in Umeå. Paddling along the river is a great way to get close to nature and experience the stunning scenery.
3. Go Fishing: The Umeå River is a great spot for fishing, and there are plenty of fish to be caught in the river. The most common species of fish are salmon, trout, pike, and perch. You can either bring your own fishing gear or rent it from one of the local companies.
4. Visit the Umeå River Museum: The Umeå River Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the river. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including a replica of a traditional fishing boat, a model of the river, and a collection of artifacts from the area.
5. Hike Along the River: There are several hiking trails along the Umeå River, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside. The trails range from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone.
6. Cycle Along the River: Cycling is another great way to explore the Umeå River. There are several cycling paths along the river, and you can choose to cycle along the riverbanks, or take a more challenging route through the forests.
7. Enjoy a Picnic: What better way to enjoy the beauty of the Umeå River than to have a picnic on its banks? There are several picnic spots along the river, so you can enjoy a peaceful lunch or dinner while admiring the scenery.
8. Go Bird Watching: The Umeå River is home to a variety of bird species, including ducks, geese, swans, and herons. There are several bird-watching spots along the river, so you can observe the birds in their natural habitat.
9. Visit the Umeå River National Park: The Umeå River National Park is a protected area along the river, and it is a great spot to explore the nature and wildlife of the region. The park has several trails, and it is also a great spot for fishing and bird watching.
10. Take a Cruise: Taking a cruise along the Umeå River is a great way to experience the beauty of the river. There are several companies offering cruises, and you can choose from day trips or longer cruises.
The Umeå River is a beautiful and tranquil place to explore, and there are plenty of things to do along its banks. Whether you want to take a boat tour, go fishing, or just admire the scenery, there is something for everyone. So, why not take a trip to Umeå and explore the Umeå River?