Denmark 'from the boot': The 10 Best Hiking Trails
June 11, 2025
Denmark, though small, hides a remarkable wealth of landscapes and natural wonders that are best explored on your own two feet. From picturesque coastlines to lush forests and vast moors, this Scandinavian country offers an unforgettable experience for hikers. In our guide, we present the top 10 hiking trails in Denmark that will allow you to immerse yourself in the captivating nature and explore the charming corners of this fascinating country. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out on your hiking adventure, you'll find trails perfect for you. Get your comfortable shoes ready, pack a backpack and set off with us on a journey through Denmark's most scenic trails!
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Trails for lovers of coastal landscapes
Denmark, surrounded by the waters of the Baltic and North Seas, offers incredible opportunities for coastal hikers. One of the most beautiful trails of its kind is Amarminoen, located on the island of Amager, just outside Copenhagen. This 24-kilometer trail runs through the Amager Nature Park, offering breathtaking views of the coast and rich flora and fauna. The trail is well marked and accessible to hikers of all levels. Amarminoen is the perfect place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature without being too far from the capital.
Another fascinating coastal route is the Gendarmstien, running along the Danish-German border. This historic 74-kilometer route offers not only beautiful views of the Baltic Sea, but also a rich history lesson. The trail is named after Danish border guards who patrolled the area in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Gendarmstien hike is not only an adventure for the body, but also for the spirit - along the way you can discover many traces of the region's turbulent history.
For those who want a more intimate experience, we recommend the Kerteminde Strand hiking trail on the island of Funen. This scenic trail runs along sandy beaches and offers peaceful, relaxing views of the sea. It is ideal for family walks or romantic hikes for two. The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible to people of all ages.
Comparing the three coastal trails, it is worth noting that Amarminoen offers the most diverse scenery and is the closest to a major city. Gendarmstien is the longest and most challenging, but also the historically richest. Kerteminde Strand hiking, on the other hand, is the most intimate and relaxing. So the choice depends on the individual preferences and abilities of tourists.
National parks - the pearls of Danish nature
Denmark boasts several beautiful national parks that are hikers' paradise. One of the most interesting is Mols Bjerge National Park, located on the Jutland peninsula. This unique area is characterized by a hilly landscape, extensive heathlands and rich biodiversity. The trails in Mols Bjerge offer unforgettable views of the sea and surrounding hills. The park is perfect for both short walks and longer day hikes.
Another fascinating area is Thy National Park, known as the 'Danish desert.' This is Denmark's largest national park, famous for its vast sand dunes, heathlands and lakes. Trails in Thy lead through unique landscapes that change with the seasons. A hike here is not only a contact with wild nature, but also an opportunity to observe rare species of birds and plants.
Skjoldungernes Land National Park, located in the heart of Zealand, on the other hand, offers a variety of landscapes - from dense forests to picturesque fjords. The trails in this park are well-marked and suitable for different levels of experience. It's an ideal place for families with children who want to explore Danish nature in a safe and friendly environment.
When comparing the three national parks, it is worth noting their unique features. Mols Bjerge is distinguished by its hilly terrain and beautiful sea views, making it ideal for lovers of scenic landscapes. Thy National Park offers the most 'wild' experience, with vast, empty spaces and unique flora and fauna. Skjoldungernes Land National Park, on the other hand, is the most diverse and family-friendly, offering many educational activities.
It's worth noting that each of these parks has its own unique character and offers different opportunities. Mols Bjerge is the most accessible for tourists coming from Aarhus, Thy offers the most 'raw' nature experience, and Skjoldungernes Land is closest to Copenhagen. So the choice depends on individual preference, the time available, and what aspects of the Danish nature you want to experience the most.
Unique trails and undiscovered gems
Beyond the most well-known routes, Denmark hides many unique trails that offer an unforgettable experience for hikers. One such place is the Råbjerg Mile - the largest wandering sand dune in Northern Europe. Located in northern Jutland, this fascinating creation of nature moves a few meters every year. Walking along Råbjerg Mile is almost like wandering through a small desert - the sand hills and sweeping views create a surreal landscape that changes with the time of day and weather conditions.
For those looking for more traditional forest trails, the Panorama Walking Route near Hobro is an ideal choice. This 10-kilometer route offers breathtaking views of Mariager Fjord and the surrounding hills. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows, making it extremely attractive for nature and photography enthusiasts.
Camønoen, often referred to as the 'Danish Camino,' on the other hand, is for those who enjoy longer hikes. This 175-kilometer trail on the island of Møn offers not only beautiful views of the Baltic Sea, but also the opportunity to learn about local culture and history. The route is divided into stages, allowing you to adjust the length of the hike to your own ability.
For those seeking less traveled paths, Gjern Bænk in central Jutland is an interesting option. This short but scenic trail leads to a viewpoint with panoramic views of the surrounding forests and lakes. It's the perfect place for a short, relaxing walk away from the crowds.
When comparing these unique trails, it's worth noting their diversity. The Råbjerg Mile offers the most unusual experience, ideal for seekers of unusual landscapes. Panorama Walking Route is perfect for those who appreciate natural diversity and beautiful views. Camønoen is for more advanced walkers who want to combine hiking with learning about local culture. Gjern Bænk, on the other hand, is ideal for short, leisurely walks in a picturesque setting.
When choosing a route, consider not only the length and difficulty of the trail, but also its unique character. The Råbjerg Mile is the most 'exotic,' the Panorama Walking Route offers the most diverse views, Camønoen is the longest and most challenging, and Gjern Bænk is the most intimate. Each of these routes has its own unique charm and allows you to discover a different face of Danish nature.
Whichever trail you choose, remember to prepare properly - comfortable shoes, appropriate clothing and a map of the terrain are the basis for a successful hike. Danish trails are generally well-marked and well-maintained, but you should always be prepared for changing weather conditions. Exploring Denmark on foot is not only a way to get active, but also a chance to deeply immerse yourself in the culture and nature of this fascinating country.
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