Kolby Mølle stands on the road between Kolby Kås and Kolby. It is Samsø’s only Dutch-style windmill.

The Mill and the Village’s History

The mill was built in 1859 in Søbyvad near Hammel; in 1899, it was moved to Samsø. Four decades separate its construction from its relocation: its original location and its later island history mark two clearly distinct stages. Kolby is one of the largest villages on Samsø. Several fires have led to the disappearance of many beautiful half-timbered farmhouses. This loss, too, is part of the village’s history.

Kolby Church: Building History and Art

Kolby Church was probably built around 1300 and later lengthened and extended with additions. On the north side of the chancel arch, a staircase leads from the chancel to an opening onto the nave. This is probably a pulpit or reading lectern from the Catholic period. On the west side of the tower room is a fresco from 1558: it depicts Saint George killing the dragon to save Cleodolinde. Two time references stand side by side: the construction period, which is only approximately dated, and the fresco, dated to 1558.

Church Opening Hours

Kolby Church is open when staff are present in the churchyard. This is normally Monday to Thursday from 10:00 to 15:30 and Friday from 10:00 to 11:45; exceptions are possible. The usual opening hours on Friday are therefore shorter than on Monday to Thursday. Check the opening hours before your visit.

Vesborg Fyr and the Castle Sites

Nearby Vesborg Fyr was built in 1858 on the old castle mound of Visborg. The ramparts and ditches of the medieval Visborg Castle are still visible in the surrounding area. The powder house at Vesborg Fyr houses a small exhibition about Samsø’s five medieval castle sites, of which Vesborg is the largest. The exhibition looks beyond the individual castle mound to the group of five sites.

In the area around Vesborg Fyr, the view stretches across the Samsø Belt towards Funen, Zealand and Jutland. The green cycle route runs from Brattingsborgvej towards Kolby; in Kolby, it turns towards Vesborg Fyr.

Forest and Harbour

In the area around Brattingsborg, the forest, which consists mainly of deciduous trees, includes meadows, marshes and lakes; the wildlife is also diverse. In the private Brattingsborg Forest, walkers and cyclists may use the paths and roads daily from 6:00 until sunset. Occasional closures for hunting are possible; check the latest access information before setting out.

The west-facing Kolby Kås Havn has restaurants. A bathing beach and bathing jetty are nearby. The distinction is useful for orientation: restaurants are at the harbour, while the bathing beach and bathing jetty are close to it. As harbour facilities may change, check what is currently available before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Mårup, Samsø, Nordby, Ørby, Brundby, Ballen.

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