Exploring the Natural Wonders of Mols Bjerge National Park

A Day of Discovery

Today was a delightful blend of history and art, a perfect combination for a curious mind like mine. I find that immersing myself in the stories of the past and the creativity of the present is the best way to truly appreciate a place. Mols Bjerge continues to surprise and enchant me with its diverse offerings.

Our first stop was Jagtslottet, Kalø, and what a treat it was! The crisp morning air was invigorating as we approached this beautiful hunting lodge nestled in the scenic landscapes of Mols Bjerge National Park. The lodge exudes a sense of history, originally built in 1898 for the Jenisch family. It’s fascinating to think that this was once a summer retreat for German nobility, designed by the renowned Danish architect Hack Kampmann. The black and white timber framing fits perfectly with the nearby Kalø Hovedgård from 1710. Apparently, before the lodge was built, the family of the local estate manager had to move out of the main building whenever the Jenisch family came to visit! Now, the secretariat of the National Park Mols Bjerge occupies the house. I couldn't help but imagine the lavish hunting parties and summer gatherings that once took place here. It's amazing how architecture can transport you to another era. I even picked up a brochure detailing some of the local hiking trails; perhaps Aino would enjoy exploring them with me when I return home?


Discover the enchanting Jagtslottet in Kalø, a royal hunting lodge surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich history, ideal for every traveler.

Wandering through the rooms, I admired the preserved details and the sense of stepping back in time. The lodge is richly decorated inside by the artist Karl Hansen Reistrup, who worked with Kampmann for many years. The building stands as a testament to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once roamed these halls. The views from the lodge were simply breathtaking, overlooking the Ringelmose forest and Kalø Castle Ruins. It was easy to see why the Jenisch family chose this location for their summer escape. According to local stories, the Jenisch family was well-liked in the region, even during their time. However, after World War II, the Danish state confiscated the estate as war reparations, since the family had ties to Germany. I thought of Markus and his family history, and how complex these national narratives can be. It's a reminder that history is always nuanced and deeply personal.

The best way to truly see a place is to blend historical curiosity with artistic appreciation, letting the stories of the past and the creativity of the present guide your journey.

After soaking in the historical ambiance of Jagtslottet, we drove to Ebeltoft to visit the Glasmuseet Ebeltoft. As a librarian, I am naturally drawn to places that celebrate creativity and human expression, and this museum did not disappoint. The Glasmuseet Ebeltoft is dedicated to international contemporary glass art. The museum has been around since the 1980s, founded by Finn Lynggaard, who lectured in ceramics in Canada and discovered glassblowing there. It’s quite unique because artists are allowed to exchange or supplement their works in the collection with new pieces. I was immediately captivated by the stunning displays of glass art from around the world. The way the light played with the colors and shapes was mesmerizing. Each piece told a story, a testament to the artist's vision and skill. I’ve always appreciated the delicate yet resilient nature of glass, and seeing it transformed into such intricate and expressive forms was truly inspiring. I think Aino would have loved this place.


Explore the captivating world of glass art at Glasmuseet Ebeltoft, an inspiring museum in Denmark's lovely coastal town.

The museum's collection is vast, featuring over 1500 objects by 600 artists. I was particularly drawn to a group exhibition called 'Et Sekunds Stilhed' (A Second of Silence), which featured works by Christina Augustesen, Christian Skjødt Hasselstrøm, and others. The pieces explored themes of reflection, stillness, and the fleeting nature of time. It was a profound experience to stand before these works, contemplating the stories they held within. The museum also offers glass-blowing demonstrations and seminars, which I found incredibly interesting. Watching the artisans at work, shaping molten glass into delicate forms, was like witnessing a form of magic. It reinforced my appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating these works of art. I spent a good amount of time in the museum shop, browsing the exquisite glass pieces. I was tempted to buy a small sculpture as a memento of my visit, but I resisted, knowing that I already have a few too many souvenirs cluttering my shelves back home!

For breakfast, we stopped at Stenbækhus / mad på Mols, a catering service in Knebel. It’s a well-regarded spot, known for its quality and attention to detail. I had a simple but delicious pastry and a cup of strong coffee, which was the perfect way to start the day. The service was friendly and efficient, and I could see why it’s a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. The catering service has an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 78 reviews. They offer everything from traditional Danish specialties to international favorites. They also offer event planning, which is a nice touch. It's clear that Stenbækhus is committed to providing customers with the best possible experience.


Discover authentic Danish cuisine at Stenbækhus with smørrebrød and tapas amidst the stunning landscapes of Mols.

Lunch was at MolsCafeen, a charming restaurant in the heart of Ebeltoft. The cafe is known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on Danish cuisine. I opted for a classic smørrebrød, which was beautifully presented and tasted divine. The cafe also operates as a cozy bed and breakfast, which I thought was a lovely idea. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture. The staff was incredibly friendly and offered great recommendations for local attractions. I made a mental note to consider staying here if I ever return to Ebeltoft. The restaurant has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars based on 23 reviews. They offer a range of dishes, from traditional Danish specialties to modern cuisine. It’s a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.


Discover MolsCafeen: A delightful restaurant and bed & breakfast nestled in Ebeltoft's beautiful landscapes offering local cuisine and stunning views.

Dinner was a truly special experience at Molskroen Strandhotel og Molskroens Brasserie. Located right by Lyngsbæk Strand, the setting was simply stunning. The Michelin Guide 2019 describes it as a stylish, relaxed seaside inn with a reputation for gastronomy. I couldn't agree more. We dined at Molskroens Brasserie, a beachfront restaurant with a terrace overlooking the ocean. The French cuisine was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. I savored every bite of my meal, as the sun set over the horizon. The restaurant is known for its high-quality food and stylish interior. They also host several events throughout the year, featuring guest chefs and special menus. According to reviews, Molskroen is considered one of the best restaurants in Denmark. The head chef, Steffen Villadsen, and his team are known for creating beautiful gourmet dishes.


Discover the culinary charm of Molskroen Strandhotel and Brasserie, where local flavors meet stunning coastal views in Ebeltoft, Denmark.

Before heading back, I popped into Molslaboratoriet, Naturhistorisk Museum's shop. As a librarian with a passion for Arctic and Nordic literature, I was excited to see what treasures I could find. The shop had a wide selection of books, including the museum's own journal, Natur og Museum. I also found CDs with birdsong and other nature sounds, which I thought would be perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere at home. They had posters, equipment for mushroom hunting, and nature cookbooks. I ended up buying a lovely book about the natural history of Mols, which I can’t wait to dive into. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and discovery. The museum shop is part of the Naturhistorisk Museum in Aarhus, which also owns Molslaboratoriet. The museum has a wide range of items for both children and adults, including dinosaur eggs, fossils, and nature-themed toys.


Explore the captivating Molslaboratoriet in Ebeltoft, Denmark—your gateway to understanding local biodiversity and nature's wonders.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am reminded of the importance of embracing both the past and the present. Jagtslottet offered a glimpse into history, while the Glasmuseet celebrated contemporary art. Together, they created a rich tapestry of experiences that deepened my appreciation for Mols Bjerge National Park. Tomorrow, we're off to Poskær Stenhus and Kalø Castle, so another day of historical exploration awaits! I'm also looking forward to trying Restaurant Moment for breakfast – I've heard wonderful things about their commitment to sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. I'm traveling with friends, and we're all excited to see what Mols Bjerge has in store for us next.