(TAN): Denmark is promoting “Fjordmino”, a new cycling (or hiking) route in its countryside that is scheduled to open in 2021.
The route takes visitors through the scenic and lesser known region of south east Jutland, an area called Kystlandet – The Coastal Land.
Located a 40-minute drive from either Aarhus or Billund airport, Kystlandet comprises the three small towns of Horsens, Odder and Hedensted and their surrounding area.
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The new 52-km circular hiking or cycling route around the Horsens Fjord goes through forests, fields, villages, and along beaches. Circling back to the charming coastal town of Horsens.
The Fjordmino also includes a hop across a couple of small islands at the entrance to the Horsens Fjord. The islands Alrø and Hjarnø are served by a small ferry with room for 12 passengers and their bikes.
Alrø has been inhabited since the Stone Age and it is still possible to find stone age remains at the southern end of the island. It is a popular spot for kite surfers. South of Alrø is the island of Hjarnø with an equally fascinating history.
The route across the island takes in the forests in the northern part, leading to meadows and a range of dramatic cliffs on the southeastern side of the island. The island makes the perfect place for a break with the option to stay overnight in holiday apartments or camping grounds.
The nearby coastal town of Juelsminde is a 15-km detour from the route but worth it with its scenic marinas, beaches and the town centre all within a walking distance.
Other experiences in the area
Back in the town of Horsens is the famous Prison Museum where tales of its infamous inmates and escapees have been collected. Visitors can also check out Denmark’s Industrial Museum. Horsens Kunstmuseum (Horsens Museum of Modern Art) has a collection of modern art and an entire room devoted to Horsens famous son, the artist Michael Kvium. Kvium is best known for his thought-provoking paintings which “mercilessly depict the folly of man and all corners of life”.
Discover more of the history of the area at the ‘Uncovered Bridge’. Dating from 1899, and hidden away in a forest near Horsens, the bridge was built as part of the local railway.
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For panoramic views across the region climb to the peak of the Sugar Loaf (Sukkertoppen). At 108 metres above sea level it is one of Denmark’s highest points with views to match. From there, you look down on Denmark’s longest river, the Gudenåen, which offers a wealth of exciting activities including canoeing; and see Jutland’s largest lake Mossø, set amongst the thick forests, and the nearby peak of the Himmelbjerget hill.
For a slice of island life, venture beyond the Fjordmino route to the island of Endelave in the Kattegat sea. Thousands of rabbits outnumber the isand’s human inhabitants and have given rise to the name of the walking route around the island called the Kaninoen (Kanin is the Danish word for rabbit), which takes in the island’s most scenic paths along the coastline and through its beautiful landscapes.
Alternatively, hire a bike and take the ferry from Hou to the car free island of Tunø. It is easy to get around on two-wheels or by the island’s traxa service, a combined tractor and taxi, that. Stay the night at the island’s former dairy which is now a small guest house. After a day in the saddle relax on the terrace with a delicious home cooked meal of local produce and take in the panoramic views down to the fine sandy beaches and the water’s edge, a few short metres away.
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Getting there
British Airways flies from Heathrow to Billund, and with Ryanair from Stansted to Aarhus and Billund and Manchester to Billund. Prices are from GBP 19.99 (USD 26.5) per person one way.
Alternatively, there are flights via Copenhagen. The drive from Copenhagen to Horsens is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
