Hadsund on the Mariager Fjord

Hadsund connects the Mariager Fjord with a local history shaped by ferry traffic, the harbor and trade. The Hadsund Bridge crosses the fjord at its narrowest point, connecting its north and south shores. Along the harbor promenades, you can walk along the quayside and look out over the fjord; municipal harbors lie both west and east of the bridge.

Fjord, cycling and hiking trails

For a bike ride by the water, Cycle Route 18 runs along the Mariager Fjord between Hadsund and Randers. Another option is the Hadsund Route: an 11-kilometer nature-oriented cycling route between Gistrup and Hadsund. The route follows the former railway line between Aalborg and Hadsund, which was closed in 1969. It is paved and passes through flat terrain. Along the way, there are shelters, toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables with benches.

On foot, the North Sea Trail runs from Hadsund to Lille Vildmose along a section of about 48 kilometers. This distance refers to the hiking trail, while the 11 kilometers refers to the Hadsund Route. This makes it easy to distinguish between the different destinations and their respective route lengths when planning your trip.

Near Hadsund, Linddalene offers a different landscape: this 41-hectare hilly woodland has been a protected area since 1992. Beech forest, open heathland and areas where sheep graze define the landscape. A marked route and smaller paths provide access to the area; Linddalene also contains several burial mounds, including Lindhøj.

Ajstrup Bay is another nearby destination. The nature reserve is characterized by old, deep sunken lanes and steep slopes above flat coastal areas formed from the raised seabed of the Stone Age sea. The hiking route there is marked in both directions with red triangles. From the route, you can look out over the bay, where barnacle geese and many other migratory birds spend the winter. The trail starts at the free, unrestricted parking area on Ajstrupvej in Hadsund.

Local history and culture

Hadsund began as a ferry crossing and small trading post. The Hadsund Culture Center tells a different story of the building’s use: it was once a primary school and now serves as a centrally located multicultural center. It hosts numerous activities and events throughout the year. The Hadsund Bio 1+2, a modern two-screen cinema, is also located in the culture center.

Hadsund Church was built in 1897–1898 in the shape of a cross, with a tall tower in the center. Its carillon was inaugurated in 1992 and has 26 bells. It plays daily at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. If you want to time your visit to hear it play, check the schedule in advance.

Hadsund Ferry Inn is also part of the town’s history: innkeeper and ferryman Peder Nielsen from Rostrup had it built in 1823. The premises include the Panorama Restaurant and a terrace overlooking the Mariager Fjord. Before planning a visit, check whether the restaurant is currently open and what it offers.

Harbor, wildlife and more places to visit

Hadsund Fishing and Marina Harbor was established in 1937 and was once a busy fishing harbor. The facilities listed there include a clubhouse, a terrace, and toilet and bathing facilities. Hadsund Marina is surrounded by the fjord and idyllic woodland, making it a suitable stop for recreational sailors arriving from the Kattegat. There is also a small sandy beach near the dinghy harbor.

At Hadsund Deer Park, visitors can see deer up close and pet goats. A covered viewing platform with tables and benches is a good spot for a picnic. For a swim, there is the municipal Hadsund Swimming Pool on the grounds of Hadsund School. In addition to school swimming, it has public opening hours; check the schedule before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Ajstrup, Rold, Hobro, Mariager, Helberskov, Als, Øster Hurup, Glenstrup.

For the broader travel overview: Mariagerfjord Municipality.