A Hiker's Guide To Denmark

Denmark has a varied landscape with long sandy beaches, green forests, endless grasslands and cliffs. One of the best ways to explore the Danish countryside is by bike; however, there are remote corners that can only be reached by foot, and many of them are extremely rewarding for lovers of hiking. Here’s the lowdown on some of the best places to hike in Denmark.

Denmark’s Best National Parks

The Wadden Sea

The Wadden Sea is Denmark’s largest national park and a top destination for nature lovers. The national park was added to Unesco’s World Heritage Site list in 2014. It extends from the Danish–German border to Blåvandshuk, and those who decide to explore it will pass shallow waters, tidal flats, sandbanks, barrier islands, tidal channels, sand dunes, marshland areas and salt meadows. As well as being visually stunning, the Wadden Sea is known for the breeding colonies of seals that can be seen resting at the sand dunes, and the flocks of migratory birds that pass by during spring and autumn. Those lucky enough will see the unique phenomenon of the sort sol (‘black sun’), as thousands of starlings dance in the sky before settling down in the reed forests.

Thy National Park

Thy National Park is an ideal destination for beginners as well as experienced hikers. Myriad roads and paths run through the park, offering great views of forests, dune plantations and limestone slopes. Take the five-day hiking tour from Agger Tange to Hanstholm and discover Denmark’s different landscapes while passing by more than 200 lakes, beaches and dune heaths. Information huts can be found all over the park, with all the essential information hikers need.

Mols Bjerge

Covering 180 square kilometres (69 square miles) of forests, lakes, grasslands and beaches, Mols Bjerge National Park is a great place for thrill-seekers. It stretches from the coast of Kattegat in the east to the forests at Kalø in the west, and from the outwash plains of the Ice Age in the north to the outstanding hills of Mols Bjerge to the south. Leave your car at one of the car parks, follow one of the yellow-dot routes and explore the breathtaking landscape. The town of Ebeltoft and various villages are also part of the national park, and there are also plenty of holiday cottages for visitors. Mols Bjerge offers more than 30 places of cultural significance, as well as geological landscapes.

Other Remarkable Hiking Trails

Camønoen

Camønoen is considered to be Denmark’s friendliest hiking trail. Visitors can either plan their trip through the country’s wild nature themselves, or let Camønoen experts do it. Either way, they’ll discover the area around Møn, Nyord and Bogø and enjoy great views of Møns Klint, the high white limestone cliffs. Hikers can sleep under the night sky at the camping areas, or at B&B cottages, hostels and private rentals. There are also plenty of food options along the way, and places for backpackers to buy all the necessary supplies for their adventure. Those who want to live the ultimate outdoor experience can find their food directly from nature, as there are plenty of trees and plants all over the route.

The Archipelago Trail

The Archipelago Trail stretches for 220 kilometres (137 miles) on the southern Fyn and is one of the longest hiking trails in Denmark. It’s divided into seven sections, but each of them has its own smaller hiking trails that can be explored in one day. The Archipelago Trail passes through various villages, coasts, grasslands, a cultural landscape and a bird habitat. An experienced hiker could cover the whole distance in around nine days; you can also get special package trips of three, four, six or seven days that provide luggage transportation and accommodation.

Bornholm

Bornholm’s wild nature can be discovered on foot through the island’s endless routes and paths. Sandy beaches, cliffs, forests andthousands of cherry trees and anemones are just some of the elements that make Bornholm’s landscape so special. Choose the trail that fits you best and explore the Danish landscape while getting a taste of life in the island’s fishing villages. There you’ll find accommodation and plenty of restaurants.

Special Equipment

Weather in Denmark is unpredictable, so even if you’re planning to hike through the Danish countryside during summer, make sure to take a light raincoat and waterproof hiking boots. For winter hiking trips, snow shoes, hats, gloves and an extra layer of clothing are required. The use of poles is also highly recommended. Keep in mind that Denmark is a very windy country, especially during the winter, so make sure to have some windproof clothing in your backpack.

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