If you find solace near water bodies, the Lake District Søhøjlandet in Denmark is a pristine emerald oasis you must explore. This stunning natural region is the perfect setting for numerous outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. It also stands as one of the highest regions in Denmark, covered extensively by natural forests, making it an ideal spot for mountain biking and hiking along its rolling forest trails.
Explore Denmark’s Premier Outdoor Destination
Nestled in the heart of Denmark in Jutland, Søhøjlandet can be easily accessed from the nearby city of Aarhus, offering a serene escape from the hustle of daily life. The quaint town of Silkeborg, located at the center of this district, is recognized as Denmark’s “outdoor capital.” Here, visitors can enjoy a blend of culture, shopping, and Danish hospitality, all while having easy access to the surrounding areas for more vigorous activities.
For those looking for less strenuous activities, Silkeborg offers the “Silk Route,” a 7.5-mile loop that guides visitors through the historic old town, forest paths, and lakeside beaches. This trail can be explored in its entirety or in segments, allowing for stops at major attractions like the Aqua Aquarium and Wildlife Park or The Paper Museum, which delves into the history of the old mill pivotal in Silkeborg’s 19th-century establishment.
Silkeborg is renowned for its waterways, with the connected lakes primarily accessed by Denmark’s longest river, the Gudenåen, which stretches 100 miles. Lyngsø, a significant urban lake formed by an ice age depression, is ideal for freshwater swimming and fishing and spans a vast 9.7 hectares. Nearby Almindsø offers excellent swimming facilities with wooden platforms surrounding the main bathing pools, perfect for a splash. Alternatively, Langsø, with its gardens that meet the water’s edge, provides a picturesque setting for a picnic or paddleboarding.
Adventures in Wildlife and Waterways
The abundance of natural wild spaces in Søhøjlandet supports diverse habitats for birds and mammals, making wildlife spotting a rewarding activity. At Sminge Lake, located northeast of Silkeborg, the marshes and reeds are breeding grounds for an array of Nordic waterfowl. This lake, intersected by the Gudenåen and fed by the Gjern River, is accessible via towpath and perfect for exploring by kayak or canoe. At Slåensø, one of Denmark’s most pristine lakes, the environment is so clean that the water is potable. Nearby, the Kongestolen or King’s Seat, at an elevation of 82 meters, offers stunning views and a two-mile lakeside trail perfect for a day’s hike.
Another exciting way to experience the vast network of waterways is by taking a trip on one of the traditional steamboats, such as the Hjejlen, the world’s oldest coal-fired paddle steamer in operation since 1861. This historical vessel, celebrated by the Ship Preservation Foundation and once enjoyed by writer Hans Christian Andersen, offers summer trips beyond Silkeborg to the scenic villages of Laven and Ry along the Himmelbjerget trail.
Explorations by Mountain Bike, Hike, and Horseback
The Himmelbjerget, standing 147 meters above sea level, is one of Denmark’s prominent peaks and a historical meeting point. Climbing this mountain offers panoramic views across Lake Julsø and the countryside and features a 25-meter tower erected in 1875 to honor King Frederik VII.
For those seeking a more rapid pace, the area’s mountain bike trails stretch from the Nordskoven forest to the Gjern Bakker hills, offering spectacular views of Denmark’s rugged uplands and deep valleys. Alternatively, the old railway line running between Funder and Brande through East Jutland’s deciduous forests provides a more serene nature trail suitable for walking, biking, or even horseback riding.
Whether it’s the thrill of adventure or the peace of tranquil natural settings you seek, the Lake District Søhøjlandet offers a perfect blend of land and water activities to rejuvenate and inspire.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Søhøjlandet’s lakes and trails.
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Fatima Clarke is a seasoned health reporter who bridges medical science with human stories. She writes with compassion, precision, and a drive to inform.
