Sweden

Byalven Cottages nr Saffle Varmland.

Two well furnished hand built log cottages in a stunningly beautiful location overlooking the lake. You are surrounded by forest teaming with birdlife where deer and moose wander. At the bottom of "the garden" there is a beaver lodge (beavers in residence).

Each cottage has 2 bedrooms a large open plan dining area/fitted kitchen and lounge. TV with DVD player, hundreds of channels. The kitchen has cooker, micrwave, fridge-freezer and dishwasher.

The larger bathroom has a toilet, shower and washing machine.

Each bedroom has twin beds.

Boats can be hired for fishing and touring this large and beautiful lake with two pairs of breeding osprey and fish eagles.

VARMLAND:

A richly forested landscape of rolling hills and valleys. There are literally thousands of lakes in this attractive region. With a low population density and abundant wildlife this region suits those seeking peace and outdoor activities. Wildlife in the region includes: Deer, Moose, Beaver, Lynx. Varmland also has the largest population of wolves in Scandinavia (although rarely seen). Brown bears also inhabit the northwest region close to the border with Norway.

Lots of wild birds can be seen in the forest around the cottages including Scandinavian long tailed tits, nuthatch, bullfinch, various hawks and eagles, sandill cranes to name but a few.

Sitting quietly beside the lake, within a short walk of the cottages, it is possible to view the resident beaver family. Best times are generally very early or late in the day. In summer it hardly ever gets dark.

Fishing:

Excellent predator fishing from April to October for pike, perch, zander and asp. The lake also has landlocked salmon and trout. The coarse fishing for tench, cruscian carp, bream, roach and ide is exceptional too. The lake is extremely productive with numerous islands. A boat gives good access although fishing is available on site.

Most boats have a 4ho outboard and oars. A larger boat "Askeladen" with new 4 stroke 30hp outboard will be available for 2012. Echo sounders are available to rent with all types of boat.

A detailed water chart of the lake is supplied in each cottage.

This location suits both serious and family anglers with stunning scenery and lots to do.. rich in wildlife, beautiful walks, horse riding, cycling and touring.

Access:

Saildrive via Esbjerg (Denmark) or Rotterdam (Holland) with either a long drive or internal ferries. Either way it will be a 2 day journey.

Flydrive via Gothenberg or Oslo is simple and fast. A 2.5 to 3 hour drive from Airport to Cottage and flights and car hire is now generally very good value. Roads are relatively traffic free too.

Cottage rental.. £1022 per week including linen, towels, electricity.  Example £255 pp 4 sharing. Fishing licenses, boat hire and final cleaning payable in resort. Local fishing guide is available.

SAFFLE:

A medium size town on the Byalven River just a short drive from the cottages. Facitlies include: riverside walks, shops, bars and attractive restaurants. Saffle is a good location to explore the region with an excellent rail and bus service. It is possible to take a train to Gothenberg and Stockholm, perhaps for a night away.

Glaskogen Nature Reserve:

A stunning wilderness region just a short drive from the cottages. Rich in flora and fauna this large national park is ideal for hiking, walking, canoing and mountain biking. There are 300kms of trails and many lakes and water courses. This is a genuine wilderness area and a guide would be well worthwhile. Wildlife includes, Fox, Moose, Hare, Deer, Badger and Lynx.