The flat landscape of Denmark is perfect to explore on foot. On dreamlike paths, you can walk over gentle hills, through picturesque heath areas, past majestic cliffs and along the enchanting seashore. Whether you cross the idyllic islands or the mainland, the long-distance hiking trails in Denmark promise unique natural experiences and a culture rich in tradition that will captivate you while hiking.
The most beautiful long-distance hikes in Denmark
Is camping in the wild allowed in Denmark?
Wild camping is not permitted everywhere in Denmark, but there are still great opportunities for overnight stays in the midst of nature. With over 2,000 shelters, this small Scandinavian country is a paradise for fresh air enthusiasts. These simple wooden shelters provide a comfortable place to sleep and you can pitch your tent nearby. They are usually free of charge and perfect for overnight stays by individuals, families and groups, or evenings around the campfire. In addition, there are designated forests where you can camp freely without a permit. The sites are provided by the Danish Nature Agency. When you go long-distance hiking in Denmark, you will experience unforgettable nights under the stars and you can also save a lot of money.
How long is the Gendarmstien (Gendarme's Path)?
The Gendarmstien (Gendarme's Trail) is an impressive hiking route along the Flensburg Fjord in Denmark. It is one of the most beautiful coastal hiking trails in Denmark, called Til Kyst Stien. With a length of 84 km, this charming trail stretches from Padborg to Høruphav. The route is divided into five stages and runs along the Baltic Sea coast, mostly directly along the beach. The hike offers breathtaking views, low altitude differences and good paths and forest trails. Discover the nature and history of the region, visit the Düppeler Schanzen and castles such as Sønderborg Castle and Gråsten Castle. The long-distance hiking trails of the Gendarmstien are well signposted and suitable for beginners. Here you can expect an unforgettable adventure along the picturesque coast of Denmark.
The five stages of the Gendarmstien:
- Padborg to Sønderhav - 15 km
- Sønderhav to Brunsnæs - 20 km
- Brunsnæs to Gammelmark - 20 km
- Gammelmark to Høruphav - 19 km
- Høruphav to Skovby - 10 km
The Gendarmstien is one of the few Danish hiking trails that run close to the coast. The Gendarme Trail is one of the most beautiful hiking trails ...
Where does the Øhavsstien (Archipelago Trail) start?
The Archipelago Trail, also known as Øhavsstien, is a fascinating hiking route through the enchanting archipelago of southern Funen. With a length of approximately 220 km, the tour starts in Faldsled and passes through Svendborg and Langeland before ending with a hike across Ærø. The route is divided into seven sections and offers diverse views of the island archipelago as well as an insight into the rich cultural history of the region. With beautiful landscapes, historic sites and charming fishing villages, the Archipelago Trail is an unforgettable experience. Depending on the chosen section, the hike is possible for any level of difficulty.
Long distance hiking on the archipelago trail
The shortened tour "Øhavsstien - The Archipelago Way" is ideal if you don't have enough time for the whole route. The route is just over 100 km long and takes you through the magnificent nature and along the geopark of the South Fyn Archipelago. These versatile long-distance trails are characterized by a unique cultural landscape and lead through beautiful nature areas and past manor houses, villages and small harbor towns.
Øhavstien - With a total of 220 km, the hiking trail of the Archipelago Sea is one of the longest hiking routes in Denmark.
Charming island hike amidst the dunes
Looking for a change from long-distance hiking? If you want to leave the long-distance hiking trails and make a detour to the island, the easy tour through the dune landscape of Fanø is a good choice. The 12 km long route leads through a varied terrain with dunes, forest, marsh and heath. At the viewpoints Annedalsbjerg and Pælebjerg you can enjoy the beautiful view. There are no places to stop along the route, but in the southern village of Sønderho, the "most beautiful village in Denmark", you can stop for a bite to eat after your hike.
Nice walk across the middle part of the island Fanø. This tour consists of two roughly equal loops. If both are too much for you at once, you can ...
Where does the E1 run in Denmark?
The E1, Europe's longest long-distance hiking trail with approx. 8,000 km, also runs through Denmark. Over a distance of about 375 km, it runs in 16 stages from the harbour town of Greningen via the Mols Route to Århus. The route then follows the Århus - Silkeborg trail until just before Silkeborg and finally the Silkeborg - Horsens trail. Here the E1 meets the historic Ochsenweg / Heerweg at Vrads and follows it to the border town of Padborg. For long-distance hiking on the E1 in Denmark, you can expect well-signposted trails and accommodation options ranging from hotels to shelters.
How long is the E6 in Denmark?
The E6 in Denmark stretches 505 km from Copenhagen (Kastrup Airport or alternatively Helsingør) to picturesque Krusa. Along the route it passes through fascinating towns such as Roskilde, Ringsted, Korsør, Nyborg, Svendborg, Ærø, Als, Sønderborg and Egernsund. Along the way, the E6 follows various stages and trails such as Nordsjællandsruten, Skjoldungestien, Øhavsstien and the famous trail Gendarmstien. Along the way you will cross the Storebelt Bridge. It connects the Danish islands of Zealand and Funen and can only be crossed by car or train.