Hjejlen is the world’s oldest coal-fired paddle steamer still operating with its original engine. Seasonally, you can travel on the steamer between hills and forests, and get off along the way to reach Himmelbjerget. Check the travel options for your planned visit, as sailings are seasonal.
Explore the landscape along a variety of routes
Silkeborg Municipality encompasses extensive forests, open heathland, marshes and grasslands, as well as lakes and winding waterways. Silkeborgskovene is part of the region’s internationally protected Natura 2000 sites. What you experience on a walk also depends on its length and theme: the marked Silkeruten is twelve kilometres long and follows a nature, culture and experience trail around central Silkeborg.
A shorter contrast is Ørnsøstien: this three-kilometre walking trail circles Ørnsø, where bird species include kingfishers and grey herons. Water levels can affect trail conditions, so it is worth checking them before setting out. The approximately 3.5-kilometre Træturen follows a circular route through the forest, where you can see more than 40 tree species and beech trees over 250 years old. This trail is not marked, so bear that in mind when finding your way.
For a longer hike, a 64-kilometre route runs from Silkeborg to Aarhus via Ry and Skanderborg, passing Slåensø and Himmelbjerget. Bus 311 connects Ry and Silkeborg with Himmelbjerget and stops near car park P2 at Himmelbjerggården. Bus routes and stops may change; check the information before travelling.
Tollund Man, art and crafts
The body of Tollund Man is the main attraction at Museum Silkeborg. He was discovered in 1950 in the Bjældskovdal bog, about ten kilometres west of Silkeborg, by brothers Emil and Viggo Højgård. The museum’s main department is housed in Silkeborg Hovedgård, Silkeborg’s oldest building, dating from 1767. A visit brings the find and a historic building together.
Museum Jorn is located in Silkeborg, right beside the Gudenå. It was founded by Asger Jorn (1914–1973), an important Danish artist associated with the CoBrA movement. Papirmuseet offers another way to explore cultural history: this living museum is also a workshop producing handmade paper and is located in the former production rooms of the old Silkeborg Papirfabrik. Exhibitions by Danish and international artists rotate at KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad, which is housed in a former spa.
Experience nature and explore local history
AQUA Akvarium & Dyrepark is dedicated to Danish nature. This family-friendly visitor centre has indoor and outdoor areas where visitors can see Danish mammals and birds up close. Animal talks and feeding experiences take place daily, and details may change. If you are planning a visit, check the current daily programme.
Høgdal offers a glimpse into the history of an estate dating back to 1796, which was then passed from father to son for five generations. Through its historic workshops and various events throughout the year, visitors can discover what life was like in the past; event schedules may change. Even when Høgdal is closed, visitors are welcome to view the buildings from the outside and walk in the surrounding area. Opening arrangements may change, so check them before your visit.
At Bølling Sø, a marked circular route of about twelve kilometres is suitable for both walking and cycling; boardwalks cross the wettest sections. There are clear restrictions for boats: rowing boats, canoes and kayaks are permitted on the western half of the lake, but not on the eastern half. Silkeborg Kanocenter offers another way to get out on the water: visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, dinghies or motorboats by the hour from Silkeborg Harbour. Rentals are scheduled to run from 1 April to 30 September; the season and availability may change, so check the latest information in advance.
Discover more destinations: Bryrup, Guldforhoved, Kjellerup, Ry, Silkeborg, Store Bredlund, Virklund, Vrads, Bording, Ans, Skygge, Svejbæk, Funder, Svostrup, Kongensbro, Linå, Them Municipality, Gjern Municipality, Fårvang, Lemming.
For the broader travel overview: Central Jutland.
