At Hou bathing beach, the focus is on a coastal stretch about three kilometres long; the harbour adds a dedicated swimming area of its own. Other highlights include a coastal path, a wind-powered sound sculpture and places steeped in history. This mix shows that Hou is more than just a place to go swimming: the beach, coast and culture each offer a different perspective.
Swimming at the beach and harbour
Hou bathing beach is about three kilometres long. Its bathing water is classified as excellent, the highest category in the municipal classification. The beach has a public toilet, a life jacket and a rubbish bin.
Hou Harbour Bath is located at the outermost part of the harbour. The water at its bathing jetty is about one metre deep; a crane on the jetty enables people in wheelchairs to go swimming. The two bathing spots therefore differ in their specific features: at the beach, these include its length, water classification and facilities; at Harbour Bath, its harbour location, approximate depth and crane.
Harbour, coastal path and sound art
Hou Marina has space for more than 200 sailboats and motorboats. Between Hals and Hou, the North Sea Trail follows the Kattegat coast. The harbour and the route offer two different perspectives: one focuses on boat capacity, the other on the coastline. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, you can include the North Sea Trail as a coastal highlight in your travel plans.
The Wind Harp brings art and wind together. The sculpture was erected in 1994 at the end of Hou mole, where North Beach begins. When the wind passes through it, it produces sounds; however, it plays only in westerly winds. Whether it sounds therefore explicitly depends on the wind direction. For visitors interested in public art, this condition is part of the work's character.
Church and local history
Hou Church offers another perspective on the town's history. Construction began in 1899, and the church was completed in time for its consecration on 14 October 1900. It was built to a design by Vilhelm Ahlemann as a historicist church combining Romanesque and Gothic forms. Inside, there are whitewashed walls and flat, plastered ceilings. Its date, design and features offer concrete points of interest for exploring the town's architectural history.
At Hou Battery, history and views come together. The battery was decommissioned in 1817; today, two cannons and information about its history can be found there. An observation tower offers views over the Kattegat. It is possible to climb on the side of the tower. The battery thus combines historical context, views and an activity at the tower.
Before you search, decide which experiences matter most for your trip. Check the location and facilities of individual holiday rentals in their respective listings.
Discover more destinations: Lundby, Svenstrup, Gjøl, Vestbjerg, Hostrup, Store Restrup, Gistrup, Nyrup
For the broader travel overview: Aalborg Municipality.
