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Højerup Kirke: The Legendary Cliffside Church of Stevns Klint

Cliffside medieval church at Stevns Klint offering dramatic views, rich history, and a front-row seat to Denmark’s geological wonders.

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Højerup Kirke is a breathtaking medieval church perched on the white cliffs of Stevns Klint in South Zealand. Built in the 1200s, it is famed for dramatic coastal views and the striking story of its choir collapsing into the sea. Today, visitors explore the remaining church, learn about its unique geology, and gaze at panoramic vistas over the Baltic Sea—making it an essential stop for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Opal Lake

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring sturdy shoes—access to the cliff path and beach can be slippery, particularly after rain.
  • Visit early in the day or near sunset for the most dramatic lighting and fewer crowds at the viewpoint.
  • Check seasonal opening times—while the grounds are always accessible, the church interior may have limited hours in winter.
  • Don't miss the interpretation panels near the ruins, which explain both the 1928 collapse and the area’s unique geology.
  • Pack a picnic—benches with sea views make for an unforgettable lunch spot.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Højerup Kirke is best reached by car from the heart of South Zealand, following signs to Stevns Klint. The route offers scenic rural vistas and the approach is well-signposted near the UNESCO viewpoint. There is a modest parking area a short walk from the church; parking is typically free, but spaces fill quickly on weekends and in summer.

  • Public Transport

    Regional buses connect central South Zealand towns to the Stevns area. Alight at the stop for Højerup, which is near the main entrance to Stevns Klint. From the bus stop, it’s a 5–10 minute stroll along a clearly visible path toward the cliffs. A single fare for adults averages 30–40 DKK. Schedules may be limited in winter.

  • Cycling

    Cyclists can enjoy a ride along country lanes toward Stevns Klint, with the church’s tower visible above the landscape as you approach. Bike racks are available near the entrance and routes are relatively flat, making it accessible for most ability levels.

  • Walking

    Højerup Kirke can be reached on foot from nearby attractions and trails that skirt the edge of Stevns Klint, allowing for a rewarding coastal walk with changing views of the cliffs and countryside. Be prepared for uneven ground and the uplifting sight of the church perched dramatically over the sea.

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Discover more about Opal Lake

Højerup Kirke occupies a unique and evocative spot atop the iconic white chalk cliffs of Stevns Klint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for both its natural wonder and its role in telling the history of Earth itself. Founded around 1250, this stone church stood faithfully for over seven centuries, watching the cliff edge inch ever closer. In 1928, a dramatic event etched Højerup forever into Danish lore—the eastern end of the church, including the choir, plunged abruptly into the Baltic Sea as the cliff beneath gave way. Rather than disappearing into oblivion, this loss elevated the church's legend. Today, visitors enter through the preserved nave, where sunlight filters through slender windows and ancient stones whisper medieval tales. The cliff edge, now stabilized, is mere paces from the altar, offering awe-inspiring views over the crashing waves below. Displays inside recount the church’s story—with models and old photographs detailing the famous collapse. A charming wooden balcony now marks what was once the chancel, suspended over open air. Outside, the churchyard extends almost to the brink, with wildflowers blooming in spring and coastal breezes year-round. From this spot, visitors can follow steps leading down the cliff to a stony beach, perfect for fossil hunting or simply taking in the magnitude of the setting. Stevns Klint itself is part of global geological history, containing layers recording the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary—the mass extinction that ended the age of dinosaurs. Højerup Kirke’s precarious perch at this site melds human and natural drama, and the surrounding area is tranquil, dotted with trees and rural fields, making it a peaceful as well as spectacular destination. Practical facilities include a small cafe nearby (operating in high season), free admission to the grounds, and interpretive panels in several languages.

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