Denmark is a country that has adventure and the outdoors in its DNA. While it no longer dispatches its viking longships to distant shores, it does lead the way when it comes to utilising its diverse geography for adventurous, often unconventional outdoor experiences.
Drawing on the philosophies of “friluftsliv” (literally, “living in the free air”) and hygge for inspiration, the Danes have mastered the art of integrating modern facilities with natural settings – don’t miss magical stargazing shelters or the sea bathing facilities. Elsewhere, the Danes blend history with outdoor activities – visitors can go amber hunting on beaches that have second world war bunkers, or get an adrenaline kick from walking the girders of a 90-year-old bridge high above the waters.
Denmark is very much the home of the quirky outdoor adventure – the only question is: what will they think of next?
Start your trip with a dip
Begin your adventure immediately after landing at Copenhagen airport with a swim at the nearby Kastrup Søbad. This unique outdoor swimming facility, also known as “The Snail”, isn’t just a swim, it’s an experience. The curving, shell-like structure offers shelter and a sense of tranquillity as you immerse yourself in the clear waters of the Øresund. For thrill-seekers, diving platforms beckon at 3 and 5 metres, and for those arriving later in the evening, spotlights embedded in the wooden deck illuminate the magical surroundings. Open year-round and free to all, the sea bath is the perfect introduction to Danish outdoor living.
Try bridgewalking
Ascend to new heights by traversing the girders of the Old Little Belt Bridge. Feel the adrenaline rush 60 metres above the water at the only place in Europe where you can experience bridgewalking. Once you catch your breath, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Little Belt, Jutland and Funen, with the possibility of spotting porpoises in the waters below. To the occasional background rumble of trains passing beneath your feet, your guide will share captivating stories about the bridge’s construction and the surrounding landscapes. This adventure is a blend of history, engineering and breathtaking scenery.
Have a unique sleepover
At the tip of the Røsnæs peninsula, where the land meets the sea, you can experience a night unlike any other in an open-fronted shelter built into the slope. Whatever the time of year, with the right sleeping bag, you can fall asleep to the sounds of the waves while breathing the fresh sea air. Waking up to panoramic views of the Kattegat, with the sunrise painting the sky in vibrant hues, this isn’t just a place to sleep – it’s a chance to reconnect with nature. Find peace in the simplicity of the Danish coast and experience Danish friluftsliv at its natural best.
Go on an oyster safari
Embark on a culinary expedition with Wadden Sea Centre’s oyster safaris, venturing into the world’s largest unbroken system of intertidal sand and mud flats. These aren’t casual strolls. While one route is just half a mile, most cover 2.5 miles or more, with the longest stretching over 6 miles, so good physical condition and surefootedness are required as you wade through the shallows. Guided by experts, you’ll learn about the Wadden Sea’s delicate ecosystem while harvesting fresh oysters straight from their natural habitat.
This adventure provides all necessary equipment, including waders and knives, ensuring a safe and immersive experience. Then, savour the spoils of your hunt, tasting the freshest oysters imaginable, often right on the mudflats. It’s a raw, hands-on connection with nature, combining adventure with gourmet delight. The season is from early October to early April.
Hike Danish wine country
Denmark was officially recognised as a wine-growing country by the EU in 2000, and today the industry enjoys international recognition. Head to North Zealand, where hikers can take in a mix of vines and views at Vejrhøj Vingård. Perched close to the trail between Vindekilde and Vejrhøj, visitors can break up their hike with a glass of white and gorgeous views over the island of Nekselø and the Baltic Sea. Growing mainly white grapes (primarily solaris) that flourish under Denmark’s long summer sunlight hours, visitors will appreciate Vejrhøj’s organic, family-oriented approach to winemaking.
Explore a fjord Viking style
Exercise your muscles and experience the thrill of a Viking as you sail and row a replica Viking longship on Roskilde Fjord. This isn’t a museum piece – it’s a living experience. Available in the summer months and guided by seasoned sailors from the Viking Ship Museum, you’ll learn the ancient techniques for navigating these formidable vessels that once brought the Danes to the shores of England. With the wind filling the sail, the rhythmic splash of oars, and the stories of Viking voyages, the fjord becomes the setting for your own saga. This is a chance to learn about Denmark’s maritime heritage and reactivate any Norse genes you may have.
Watch the sky come alive
Witness the “black sun” phenomenon in Ribe, a breathtaking ballet performed by up to 400,000 starlings over the Wadden Sea. Imagine the sky alive with swirling, ever-changing formations as these birds dance in unison, a spectacle best seen during March/April and September/October. This isn’t just a bird migration – it’s a natural wonder, a mesmerising display choreographed by the presence of birds of prey and the hush of the evening. As the marshes of Ribe transform into a stage for one of nature’s most enchanting shows, you’ll find yourself captivated by this starling magic.
Ski in the city
Experience the extraordinary at CopenHill, where skiing meets sustainability atop a waste-to-energy plant. This isn’t your average slope – it’s a 450-metre run on an eco-friendly Neveplast surface, offering thrills for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers. Enjoy panoramic views of Copenhagen from 85 metres, and ascend via lifts that offer glimpses into the plant’s innovative operations. Beyond skiing, CopenHill boasts a freestyle park, a slalom course, and even the world’s highest climbing wall. It’s a unique blend of recreation and environmental consciousness, showcasing Copenhagen’s commitment to a greener future.
Hunt for amber
Get up early after a storm and breathe the invigorating air of Blåvand, where the North Sea’s relentless waves deliver riches from the deep. This wide, gently sloping beach, sheltered by the distant Horns Reef, becomes a prime amber hunting ground after stormy weather. Walk the shoreline, keeping your eyes peeled for the golden glow of fossilised resin, dating back millions of years. Treasured by Vikings for amulets and trade, this golden prize washes ashore here, carried by currents from the Baltic Sea. In contrast to the natural beauty, stark reminders of Denmark’s more recent past also line the beach: bunkers that once formed part of Hitler’s Atlantic wall. This combination means that Blåvand offers a captivating blend of nature and history, with a chance to find a very special souvenir of your visit.
Denmark’s outdoors isn’t just a backdrop, it’s very much the main event. Come discover how to experience it
