Favrskov between river valleys and history

The landscapes and trails along the Gudenå and Lilleå rivers shape the character of Favrskov. Historic mills, castles and churches provide a cultural contrast. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling or exploring individual attractions, the different towns and routes give your trip a variety of possible focuses.

Hiking trails and river landscapes

The Gudenåstien is 175 kilometres long in total. Its section in Favrskov runs from Laurbjerg through Ulstrup towards Bjerringbro. The 19.5-kilometre Gudenå Dalstien also runs along the south bank of the Gudenå, from Laurbjerg through Ulstrup towards Bjerringbro. These figures refer to different routes: 175 kilometres is the total length of the Gudenåstien, while 19.5 kilometres is the length of the Gudenå Dalstien. The latter passes right by Busbjerg. At 92 metres high, Busbjerg offers views over the Gudenå Valley.

The Alling Ådal has a different landscape, with meadows, marshes and lakes. The Lilleå stretches for 37 kilometres from its source south of Lading through Hinnerup and Hadsten to its confluence with the Gudenå near Langå. Between Hadsten and Hinnerup, the Lilleå and Lilleådalen run through Favrskov; the area is characterised by its diverse animal and plant life. In Hinnerup, a public path runs along the Lilleå. Further access points to Lilleådalen can be found on Nørregade, as well as a hiking route near Sahara road.

Cycling and outdoor activities

The Favrskovruten connects the area’s natural attractions via seven main routes: Banestien, Gudenåstien, Lilleåstien, Øst-sporet, Vest-sporet, Skivholme-Voer Mølle and Søbyvad-Hinnerup. The Kulturringen cycle route also crosses Favrskov. Its section is divided into three stretches: 18.7 kilometres from Pøt Mølle to the Gudenå, 24.4 kilometres from the Gudenå to Laurbjerg, and another 24.4 kilometres from Laurbjerg to Clausholm. This makes it easy to distinguish the shorter section from the two equally long stretches. The route also passes Frijsenborg Manor near the Granslev Å.

There are two mountain biking trails in Hammel: Klintholmsporet is four kilometres long and Hammel Mølleskov is seven kilometres long. A route about 3.5 kilometres long runs between Ulstrup and the Amstrup Bakker. It is a challenging one-way course with many technical features in hilly terrain. The approximately 6.5-kilometre mountain biking trail in Hinnerup is technically demanding in several places and starts and ends at Hinnerup Bibliotek & Kulturhus. The different lengths and descriptions can help you choose a ride that matches the kind of trail you are looking for.

Naturvejledning Favrskov offers public guided nature tours focused on seasonal and common species, as well as nature experiences and outdoor activities. On kayak trips on the Gudenå and Nørreå, participants are introduced to kayaking and get to experience the animal and plant life above and below the water’s surface. Dates may vary. For anglers, Favrskov has the Fiskeparken Svejstrup trout lake, where fishing is available year-round. The Lilleå is known for sea trout fishing.

Historic sites and special insights

Clausholm Slot near Hadsten is one of Denmark’s best-preserved Baroque estates from the 17th century. Its historic character includes the park and stories of royal love. Modelbane Europa in Hadsten brings railways and landscapes together on a miniature scale: the exhibition features more than 80 trains and 100 years of railway history. Visitors can set the East Jutland main line in motion themselves at the push of a button.

The history of Pøt Mølle can also be traced through its buildings. The historic watermill is set in hilly terrain in the Granslev Ådal, surrounded by the Frijsenborgskovene northeast of Hammel. The three-winged mill courtyard was built around 1890; the mill building is an exact copy of its predecessor, which burned down in 1954. The complex now houses a restaurant, though its use may change.

Høj Stene near Vejerslev is a reconstructed Iron Age burial monument on the Gudenå. It lies right beside the river and the Trækstien, making it easy to combine a visit with a hike or canoe trip. Søbygård offers a different perspective on history: an unsuccessful attempt was made there to establish an Augustinian nunnery in the early 15th century; by 1428, only one nun lived there. The manor house and medieval earthworks are not open to the public and can only be viewed from the road.

Today’s Voldum Kirke was built largely in 1606 and was closely connected to Clausholm Slot. Its furnishings include a carved altarpiece made by pupils from the workshop of Peder Jensen Kolding, and a richly carved pulpit from the early 17th century. It is supported by Moses holding the Tablets of the Law. The history of Ulstrup Slot and its associated estate dates back to the end of the 14th century, when the landowning Brandsen family built the first farm complex.

Plan events and travel

Every year, Busbjerg hosts the Busbjergspillene summer theatre performances; the event began in 1945. Hammel Hestemarked is also an annual event. The market features a flea market, fairground rides, food stalls, animals and activities for children and adults. Dates and programmes may vary from year to year. Ulstrup Slot hosts concerts, theatre performances and exhibitions every year; the castle courtyard and park are accessible in connection with these events.

Hadsten railway station is in Favrskov Municipality, on the railway line between Aarhus and Randers; InterCity trains stop there. If you plan to travel by train, check the timetable for your travel dates. When looking for a hotel in Favrskov, you can also consider which places and activities you want your stay to focus on: riverside trails and nature experiences, historic attractions or events.

Discover more destinations: Truust, Laurbjerg, Hinnerup, Hammel, Ulstrup, Hadsten, Sporup, Hadbjerg.

For the wider travel overview: Central Jutland.