Vrads combines a heathland shaped by drifting sand with a seasonal heritage railway and local places with their own history and products. When choosing your stay, it is worth considering these highlights separately: would you like to explore the landscape and go hiking, learn about railway history, or discover local products? The season, timetable and separate announcements each play a role in the specific activities available.

Heathland and hiking

Vrads Sande is a 146-hectare heathland shaped by centuries of drifting sand. It has been protected since 1968 for its unique beauty and historical significance. These two facts mark different points in time: drifting sand shaped the area over centuries, while the year it was protected marks a later step in its history.

The Hærvejen stage from Hesselhus Camping to Vrads passes through Vrads Sande. The Vrads Vandregruppe organises a three-hour hike from 1 pm to 4 pm about once a month on a Saturday or Sunday. Unlike the stage with named starting and ending points, the dates and routes for the group hikes are announced locally.

Heritage railway and historic station

Vrads Station is the terminus of a five-kilometre heritage railway that runs between Bryrup and Vrads during the summer season. Check the current timetable before your trip. The preserved old station houses a seasonal restaurant and also displays historic photographs from the railway’s heyday. The timetable and restaurant opening are separate planning considerations, although both involve seasonal information.

Right next to Vrads Station is a basic campsite with tables, benches, a fire pit and shelters for up to 30 people. It adds a simple camping option to the station area. Individual facilities may temporarily be unavailable; check what is available before your visit.

Local history and products

Vrads Church was built around the year 1200. Its date of construction adds another specific reference point for local history alongside the railway photographs.

Another local highlight is Vrads Distillery, which remains a small, family-run distillery. Its gin is made exclusively from organic ingredients. Tours and gin tastings can be booked through the distillery’s website. Confirm the arrangements for your visit before travelling.

At Vrads Sande Meditation Center, locals meet for group meditation and other activities. Open activities are announced separately; check these announcements if you are interested.

Timing and planning your visit

Different considerations apply when choosing when to visit: the heritage railway runs during the summer season according to the current timetable, while the hiking group announces dates and routes locally. The restaurant operates seasonally, while tours and gin tastings can be booked through the distillery’s website. Depending on what you are interested in, check the relevant schedule or booking information before finalising your plans.

Discover more destinations: Gjern Municipality, Funder, Skygge, Them Municipality, Linå, Store Bredlund, Ry, Kjellerup

For the wider travel overview: Silkeborg Municipality.