Ballen: Harbour, History and Coast

Ballen combines a ferry connection with harbour history, a protected lime kiln, beaches and cycling routes on Samsø. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, you can plan your trip around your interests: the harbour and cultural history, activities on the water or cycling.

Ferry Port and Harbour History

SAMSØLINJEN operates a ferry connection between Ballen on Samsø and Kalundborg on Zealand. Check the timetable before your trip if you plan to use this connection.

The harbour was established in 1764 as a shipping port for Brundby and was then called Brundby Balle. The year and historical name mark a different era from the ferry connection operated by SAMSØLINJEN today.

Ballen Harbour is said to receive around 9,200 visiting boats per year; the number may change over time.

Lime Kiln and Energy Academy

The lime kiln is a few minutes’ walk from Ballen harbour. Ballen Lime Kiln is protected as one of the oldest, best-preserved and most authentic examples of an old lime works. Here, near the harbour, two distinct aspects of history meet: the history of shipping and a protected example of the lime industry.

The Samsø Energy Academy is located north of Ballen harbour. It houses the Samsø Energy and Environment Office, the Samsø Energy Agency and Energitjenesten Samsø. From there, the organisations offer guided tours, professional tourism, workshops and seminars, among other things.

Beaches and Water Activities

The two beaches near Ballen have sandy shores, sandy seabeds and clear water. At the bathing beach from Ballen harbour towards Strandskoven, the water reaches a depth suitable for swimming just a few metres from the shore. The beaches near Ballen are suitable for beginners in kitesurfing, as you can still stand for a long way out from the shore.

The distinction is useful when choosing an activity: at the beach towards Strandskoven, the water reaches a depth suitable for swimming close to shore; for beginner kitesurfers, you can stand for a long way out.

At Ballen harbour, Landkrabben offers maritime activities and nature education for the whole family. At Landkrabben, you can use a small red rowing boat within the floating jetties. You can rent SUP equipment in Ballen; check availability before your trip.

Cycling Between Ballen and Sælvig

National Cycle Route N4 runs across Samsø from Ballen ferry port to Sælvig harbour; the island section is 11 kilometres long. Stage 20 of the Kulturringen cycling route also runs from Ballen to Sælvig. Two different route details help with the comparison: the 11-kilometre N4 section and the Kulturringen’s designation as Stage 20. Check the Kulturringen route details before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Kolby, Brundby, Mårup, Nordby, Samsø, Ørby

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