Skanderborg between lakes, forests and history

The Gudenå, Denmark’s longest river, shapes the landscape of Skanderborg. Vast forests, lakes, streams, hills and valleys are also part of the scenery. A stay here brings together a variety of themes: nature and water, as well as cultural history and exhibitions.

Landscape and nature in Anebjerg Skov

Anebjerg Skov features activity and information points about climate, the environment and biodiversity. Five listening benches invite visitors to listen to podcasts about forest processes and topics. Each contribution lasts between five and ten minutes. The listening benches offer a short addition to the information points and highlight different aspects of the forest.

Skanderborg Sø: Islands, swimming and water sports

Explore Skanderborg Sø by canoe or boat, and visit the islands of Æbelø and Sct. Helene, which are open to visitors. Water access and available equipment vary by season. Æbelø has a landing stage and can be visited, but overnight stays on the island are not permitted. If you are planning an island visit, bear this restriction in mind and check local conditions in advance.

Dyrehavens Søbad on Skanderborg Sø is a family-friendly bathing spot and invites visitors to swim year-round. Water quality and algae conditions vary by season. The modern lido offers a pool, diving facilities and a sauna, as well as water sports and access to the lake. You can kayak and use a SUP there. Since opening arrangements and water conditions may change, it is advisable to check before your visit.

For a two-wheeled outing, Baneskoven in Skanderborg has a five-kilometre blue mountain bike trail for a range of ability levels. Red and black loops are being developed on an ongoing basis. Trail conditions may change; check the latest conditions before setting out.

Museums and history

Museum Skanderborg is responsible for the entire cultural history of Skanderborg Municipality and comprises four museum departments and six archives. Øm Kloster Museum tells a special story of monastic life: it features a monastery described as Denmark’s best-illuminated medieval monastery, as well as numerous artefacts and skeletons from extensive archaeological excavations. Check current opening arrangements before your visit.

At Museet på Gl. Rye Mølle, the permanent exhibition preserves the original furnishings and equipment of the mill and sawmill. Other exhibition topics include 16th-century glassmaking in Glarbo and the wooden shoe production that once brought prosperity to Gl. Rye. Gl. Rye Mølle is a Dutch gallery windmill, also known as a cap mill, built in 1872 as a grain mill.

In Skanderborg, Slotskirke was preserved as a parish church when Skanderborg Castle was demolished. Parts of the church’s original furnishings have survived to this day, including pew ends bearing the royal coat of arms and a pulpit. Skanderborg Bunkerne Bunker Museum focuses on a different aspect of history. It covers bunker construction, the duties of Luftwaffe generals, the top-secret ENIGMA cipher machine, the occupation and everyday life during the occupation. The museum is open seasonally.

Festivals and regional views

Smukfest, also called Skanderborg Festival or Danmarks Smukkeste Festival, is a Danish music festival. It takes place every summer on the second weekend of August in Skanderborg’s Dyrehave. If you want to plan your trip around it, check the dates and programme for the year you wish to visit.

Himmelbjerget is located near the station town of Ry, in the area around Skanderborg. From an observation tower, you can look out over Julsø, the forests and the surrounding landscape. The site also offers insight into the development of democracy. If you plan to visit this regional attraction, check accessibility and facilities before travelling.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Alken, Emborg, Skanderborg, Hørning, Låsby, Hårby, Skovby, Skive Municipality.

Go to the main travel overview: Central Jutland.