Vigsø can be explored through three clear travel interests: the bunkers on the beach, marked trails and the landscape of Vigsø Plantage. Numerous bunkers from the Second World War lie on the beach and in the sea. When planning your trip, it is worth deciding first whether the coast and surfing beach, military history, or cycling and walking routes should shape your stay.

Bunker landscape and cultural heritage

The Vigsø Hærkystbatteri belonged to the German Army and was intended to defend Hanstholm against an attack in which an enemy landed in Vigsø Bay. Construction of the position began in October 1941; it was ready to fire on 20 December of the same year.

The installation included 46 concrete bunkers. 24 of them had walls and ceilings two metres thick. Since the Second World War, coastal erosion has meant that two-thirds of the bunkers of the Vigsø Hærkystbatteri can now be seen entirely on the beach or in the water.

The beach is also connected with film history: parts of the film “Olsen-Banden i Jylland” were shot on Vigsø Beach in 1971. Vigsø Båke is protected as Danish cultural heritage. Together, these sites give this stretch of coast both a military-historical and a cultural connection.

Cycling and walking routes, beach and surfing

The Vestkyststien Agger-Bulbjerg is part of National Cycle Route 1. It passes along beaches and through dunes, heathland and low-lying areas. The route is marked with a lifeboat logo and can be used year-round. There are parking areas along the entire route.

At Vigsø, road access to the beach runs through ravines at Baun and Febbersted. There is a toilet building in the car park at Vigsø Beach. Many surfers use the beach as a starting point for their sport. As facilities may change, check the current status of the parking areas and toilet building before your visit.

There are two marked walking routes: one leads from Hanstholm to Vigsø and back through the area, while the other runs around Vigsø Plantage. The routes therefore differ in their layout: the first runs between Hanstholm and Vigsø, with a return through the area, while the second goes around the plantation.

Coastal landscape and Vigsø Plantage

The coastal stretch near Vigsø is one of Denmark’s longest undeveloped coastlines. Most of Vigsø Plantage is designated as a dark and quiet area under the municipal plan. A strip through the western part of the plantation is part of Natura 2000 Site No. 24, “Hanstholm Reservatet, Hanstholm Knude, Nors Sø and Vandet Sø”.

The designation is based on 21 habitat types. The large, continuous dune landscapes and calcareous slopes, along with their associated flora and fauna, are particularly important. The coastal stretch between Lildstrand and Bulbjerg is recognised as a Dark Sky area. Planning and conservation designations may change; check their current status when making specific plans.

The entire area of Vigsø Plantage is designated for free camping. This designation may also change. If you are planning to camp freely, check its current status beforehand. Vigsø therefore offers a range of different experiences: the beach and surfing, the remains of the coastal battery, as well as trails and natural areas. Your priorities can help you choose the right focus for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Snedsted, Skyum, Nr. Lyngby, Tved, Boddum, Klitmøller, Thisted, Kastrup

Go to the main travel overview: Thisted Municipality.