Insider Tips for Denmark: 5 Gems Off the Beaten Path
Denmark has so much more to offer than just Copenhagen and the Little Mermaid. In this article, we'll explore five highlights that even many locals aren't familiar with.
1. Møns Klint
Located on the island of Møn, south of Zealand, Møns Klint’s majestic cliffs stretch over seven kilometers along the Baltic Sea and offer breathtaking views. The impressive white chalk cliffs, are among Denmark's most spectacular natural wonders. At 128 meters, Møns Klint is the highest cliff in Denmark a true highlight so to speak.
Activities:
Hiking Trails: The cliffs offer several hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. Highly recommended is the Klinteskoven trail, which leads through dense beech forests and offers spectacular views of the cliffs.
GeoCenter Møns Klint: This interactive museum tells the geological history of the cliffs and offers exciting activities for children and adults.
Dark Sky: Møn is one of the best places to see a clear night sky due to the exceptionally low light pollution. The night sky over Møn is one of Denmark's natural highlights.
Tips:
Visit the cliffs early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the best light for photos.
Sturdy footwear is a must, as the paths can be steep and slippery. With the right shoes, you can also search for fossils on the beach below the cliffs.
Consider carefully before descending to the beach, as taking the stairs requires significant stamina. The breathtaking views are worth it, but be prepared for a challenging climb back up! Don’t go too late!
2. Dragør
The charming fishing village of Dragør is just a short drive from Copenhagen (about 30 minutes) and is perfect for a day trip. The old town feels like time has stood still, with its cobblestone alleys and historic houses. Make sure to take the short walk to the harbour. You might get a beautiful view of Storebæltsbroen, the gigantic bridge that connects Denmark to Sweden. (Photo below)
Attractions:
Old Town: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town and admire the well-preserved houses from the 18th century.
In the summer, the town's streets are adorned with colorful flowers. If you're lucky, you might even hear some live music playing through the streets, adding to the ‘hyggelig’ atmosphere.Dragør Fort: Visit the historic fort that once defended the coast and now houses a small museum. The museum tells the story of the fishing village and its traditions.
Recommendations:
Cafés and Restaurants: Enjoy fresh fish and seafood at one of the many cozy restaurants by the harbor.
Events: Visit Dragør during one of its traditional festivals, such as the harbor festival in the summer.
Storebæltsbroen: The bridge that connects Denmark to Sweden
3. Råbjerg Mile
Råbjerg Mile is one of the largest migrating dunes in Europe and a fascinating natural phenomenon. This massive sand dune moves up to 15 meters per year and offers an ever-changing landscape. The unique landscape, with its white sand, is reminiscent of the Sahara.
Activities:
Hiking: Climb the dune and enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Photography: For photography enthusiasts, the unique sand formations and the play of light and shadow offer perfect subjects. Sunrises and sunsets provide beautiful lighting conditions.
Tips:
Wear sunscreen, as there is little shade in the area.
Be mindful of the weather, as strong winds can stir up the sand and make the experience uncomfortable.
4. Mønsted Limestone Mines
The Mønsted Limestone Mines are the largest limestone mines in the world and offer a fascinating underground experience. The caves stretch labyrinth-like over 60 kilometers and were once used for limestone extraction. They are located on Jutland.
Activities:
Cave Tours: Explore the well-lit caves and learn more about their history and the geology of the region.
Bats: The limestone mines are home to thousands of bats, which provide impressive spectacles, especially in winter.
Tips:
Wear warm clothing, as the temperatures in the caves are low all year round.
Join a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating history and geology of the mines.
5. Bornholm
Bornholm, Denmark's sunshine island, lies in the Baltic Sea and offers a unique mix of nature, culture, and history. The island is known for its picturesque fishing villages, impressive coastal landscapes, and historic sites. It is considered the favorite vacation island of the Danes and is one of the absolute highlights among Denmark's roughly 400 islands. If you are interested in the Top 5 of Denmark’s most beautiful islands, make sure to check out the article.
Attractions:
Hammershus: The largest castle ruin in Northern Europe offers impressive views and exciting insights into history.
Dueodde Beach: Relax on one of the island's most beautiful beaches with fine white sand and crystal-clear water.
Recommendations:
Hiking and Cycling: Bornholm has an excellent network of hiking and cycling paths that lead through diverse landscapes. You might even find some hidden, lonely beaches along the way.
Local Cuisine: Try regional specialties such as smoked eel and Bornholm mustard. There are numerous smokehouses (‘røgerier’) on Bornholm where you can enjoy a cozy meal.
Denmark is full of undiscovered treasures just waiting to be explored. If you're not a fan of typical tourist attractions and landmarks, you can also find and experience many beautiful highlights off the beaten path.
They are pleasantly free from the usual tourist crowds most of the time which makes them especially enjoyable to visit if you are looking for a relaxing holiday.
