Borup Hede Heathland & River Valley
Rolling heath, a winding river valley and quiet traces of Denmark’s deep past create a peaceful nature escape at Borup Hede near Møldrup.
Borup Hede is a protected heath and river valley landscape near Møldrup in Viborg Municipality, Central Jutland. Carpeted with heather, juniper and sandy soils, it folds gently down towards the clear waters of the Simested Å, one of Jutland’s most scenic small rivers. Traces of prehistoric burial mounds, old sunken roads and nearby plantations add quiet layers of history, making this a serene spot for walks, picnics, nature photography and peaceful immersion in classic Danish heath scenery.
A brief summary to Borup Hede
- Boruphedevej, Møldrup Municipality, 9632, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- 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
- Wear sturdy, closed shoes; paths can be sandy, uneven and damp near the river, especially after rain.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no on-site shops; use any available bins or pack out all rubbish.
- Visit in late summer to see the heather in bloom and enjoy warm evening light over the heath.
- If you bring a dog, check local signage for leash rules and respect grazing animals where present.
- Carry a light windproof layer; the open heath can feel cooler than nearby sheltered plantations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Picnic Areas
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Car from Viborg
From Viborg town centre, driving to Borup Hede typically takes 30–40 minutes via regional roads through the countryside. The route uses standard paved roads suitable for all vehicles. Expect free roadside parking or small informal parking areas near access points to the heath, but there are no marked car parks with services. Fuel up and use facilities in Viborg before you go, as amenities near the heath are limited.
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Car from Møldrup
From Møldrup, Borup Hede can usually be reached in around 10–15 minutes by car along local country roads. Surfaces are paved but narrow in places, so be prepared for agricultural traffic and reduced speeds. Parking is generally informal along smaller roads close to the heath; do not block gateways or farm access, and be mindful that there are no designated parking bays or toilets at the site.
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Regional bus plus walking
Regional buses connect Viborg with smaller towns in the Møldrup area, with typical journeys of 35–55 minutes depending on route and time of day. A single adult ticket usually falls in the range of 30–60 DKK. From the nearest village stops, expect an additional country walk of 2–5 km along minor roads and tracks to reach the heath, on mixed paved and gravel surfaces. Services may run less frequently in evenings and on weekends, so check timetables and plan your return in advance.
Borup Hede location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Borup Hede
Heathland Where River and Sky Meet
Borup Hede stretches across a rolling mosaic of dry heath, open grassland and light woodland, shaped by wind, sand and grazing over centuries. The land leans gently towards the Simested Å, a meandering stream that cuts a shallow valley through the landscape, creating small bluffs and viewpoints along its banks. In late summer, purple heather and soft green mosses form a natural tapestry, while in spring and early autumn the color palette shifts to fresh greens, rusts and browns under broad Jutland skies. This is classic Danish inland heath, with sandy paths underfoot, scattered juniper bushes and pockets of birch and pine. The openness of the terrain gives a constant sense of space and horizon, yet the shallow valleys and river bends offer enough variation to keep even a short wander visually engaging.Layers of History in the Landscape
Beyond its natural beauty, Borup Hede holds subtle but important traces of human history. The broader area includes prehistoric burial mounds and barrows, reminders that people have moved across and used this heath for thousands of years. Nearby, archaeological sites and ancient field structures hint at past farming and ritual landscapes that once occupied this now quiet ground. Old sunken roads and historic crossing points such as Skinders Bro, a traditional bridge site on the creek, speak of a time when this was a key route through the countryside. Walking here, you move through a landscape that has shifted from prehistoric ritual ground to grazing heath and, more recently, a protected nature area managed for conservation and recreation.The River Simested Å and Its Valley
The Simested Å is the quiet heart of Borup Hede. Its clear, gently flowing water supports aquatic plants, insects and fish, and the narrow river corridor attracts birds that flit between bankside shrubs and open sky. In places the stream has cut small terraces and banks, giving you slightly elevated views over the water and surrounding heath. Along the valley you may find damp hollows with different vegetation, contrasting with the dry, sandy heath just a few steps away. This close juxtaposition of habitats supports a variety of plants and animals within a relatively compact area, making slow, observant walks particularly rewarding for nature enthusiasts.Walking, Cycling and Quiet Outdoor Time
Borup Hede is especially suited to gentle outdoor activities. A network of informal tracks and paths invites you to create your own loop walks, while wider forest roads in the adjoining plantations are suitable for relaxed cycling. The terrain is mostly easy, with modest gradients, though some sandy sections and small slopes along the river valley may feel uneven underfoot. Open clearings and edges between heath and plantation provide natural picnic spots. With no urban noise and limited traffic nearby, the main soundtrack is wind in the heather, birdsong and the muted rush of the creek. It is an area that rewards unhurried exploration, whether you are here for photography, sketching, birdwatching or simply a contemplative stroll.Plantations, Dog-Friendly Areas and Seasonal Character
Flensborg Plantage and Nørredal Plantage sit close to the heath, adding stands of conifers and mixed woodland to the experience. These plantations create sheltered corridors on windy days and frame long, straight tracks that contrast with the more organic curves of the river valley. Some parts of the wider area are known as dog-friendly, offering space where four-legged companions can enjoy the outdoors, provided local rules and leash requirements are respected. The character of Borup Hede changes subtly with the seasons. On clear winter days, frosted heather and low sun create a silvery, quiet atmosphere. In summer, long evenings and warm light make the heath ideal for later walks when shadows stretch across the sandy ground. Whatever the time of year, the area remains a low-key, uncrowded pocket of Central Jutland nature, where heathland heritage and soft river scenery meet.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Oberst J.C. Lunds Plads
17.7 km
Historic public square anchoring Viborg's Cathedral Quarter and medieval city center.
Vi er Viborg
18.4 km
Experience Danish innovation at Dokk1, Aarhus’ renowned waterfront library and cultural hub, blending architecture, technology, and vibrant community life.
Viborg View
19.2 km
Experience Dokk1, Aarhus’ state-of-the-art library and cultural center, where pioneering architecture meets urban vitality on the scenic waterfront.
Befrielsessten i Ravnstrup
20.2 km
A modest countryside liberation stone near Viborg, quietly commemorating Denmark’s freedom in 1945 amid open fields and a peaceful village setting.
Hobro Lystbådehavn
23.5 km
Denmark's premier fjord marina with historic charm and modern comfort.
Hotel BramslevGaard
26.7 km
Experience tranquility and history at Hotel BramslevGaard, nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker by Mariager Fjord, offering gourmet dining, spa retreats, and easy access to Northern Jutland's natural wonders.
Restaurant BramslevGaard
26.8 km
Experience Danish history and gastronomy at BramslevGaard, a charming manor house nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker near Hobro, offering stunning views and French-inspired cuisine.
Museum Salling
31.3 km
Dive into Denmark's past at Museum Salling, where Limfjord's heritage comes alive through interactive exhibits, ancient artifacts, and engaging storytelling in scenic Skive.
Springkilden
31.6 km
Discover the mesmerizing Springkilden in Rold Forest: an artesian spring offering a tranquil escape into nature's beauty near Skørping, Denmark.
Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest
32.4 km
Explore Denmark's best-preserved Cold War bunker at Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest: an immersive journey into a secret world hidden beneath the forest, revealing a pivotal era in history.
Midt inde i Rold Skov
33.2 km
Discover Denmark's largest forest: Hike through ancient woodlands, explore hidden springs, and experience the tranquility of Rold Skov, a natural treasure trove in Himmerland.
Rold Forest
33.2 km
Discover Denmark's largest forest: Hike through ancient woodlands, explore unique geological formations, and uncover the legends of Rold Forest near Skørping.
Rold Storkro
33.4 km
Discover tranquility at Rold Storkro, nestled between Denmark's largest forest and scenic hills, offering a blend of historic charm and modern comfort for an unforgettable escape.
Fur Museum
33.5 km
Discover Denmark’s prehistoric wonders at Fur Museum—home to some of Europe’s finest fossils and a lively hub of natural and local history in the heart of Limfjord.
Thingbæk Chalk Mines / Rebild Center
33.5 km
Explore art within the depths of former limestone mines, discover natural springs, and delve into Cold War history at the Rebild Center, a unique cultural experience in Northern Jutland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hvolris Jernalderlandsby
6.3 km
Step into another tempo in a working Iron Age village where archaeology, reconstructed longhouses and a sculpture-studded valley bring 6,000 years of history to life.
Worldmap at Klejtrup Lake
13.2 km
Walk the world in an afternoon on a lakeside, stone-and-grass atlas where continents, flags and family-friendly fun turn geography into a playful countryside escape.
Skrikes plantage
14.3 km
Serene woodland escape with marked trails, wildlife watching, and easy access from Viborg town center.
Undallslund
16.0 km
Expansive forest playground with marked trails, BBQ spots, and dog park near Viborg.
Hessel
16.6 km
Step into one of Denmark’s last thatched four-winged manors, where Limfjord breezes, creaking barns and lived-in interiors bring country life of a century ago to life.
Granada
16.8 km
A relaxed neighbourhood park in Viborg, where winding paths, trees and open lawns offer a simple, everyday dose of green space and fresh air.
Viborg Miniby
17.1 km
Step into a painstakingly crafted 1:10 miniature of 1850s Viborg, where tiny streets, churches and workshops bring a thousand years of Danish city history to life.
Digterparken
17.2 km
Leafy Viborg park with orchards, sculptures and dog‑friendly lawns, offering a relaxed, free green escape in easy reach of the city’s historic heart.
Mindesten
17.4 km
Mariager Strandpark is a peaceful waterfront park offering idyllic fjord views, swimming areas, and open lawns—an inviting escape at the heart of Mariager’s natural beauty.
Øls Skæppe
17.6 km
A quiet, dramatic earthfall hollow on Hobro’s outskirts, where steep grassy slopes form a natural amphitheatre and reveal the subtle power of shifting ground.
Søparken
17.8 km
Atmospheric living museum in a historic 1820s papermill, featuring live demonstrations, hands-on crafts, and working steam machines in rural Viborg.
Peak 12 Hotel
18.0 km
Sleek Scandinavian design hotel on the edge of historic Viborg, blending functional comfort, social lobby life and easy access to central Jutland sights.
Willow Garden
18.1 km
A small willow-framed oasis in central Viborg, perfect for a short, tranquil pause amid trees, lawns and soft light between the city’s historic sights.
Vægtertorvet
18.2 km
A small, newly renewed square beside Viborg’s old guardhouse, where the city’s former night watchmen and its thousand-year story of law and order still echo softly.
Agern Skulptur
18.3 km
A small but striking outdoor artwork on Viborg’s edge, where clean contemporary lines meet soft Danish light and greenery in an open-air pause for reflection.
Essential places to dine
Hjarbæk Kro 2021 Aps
11.7 km
Modern Danish inn cuisine and candlelit hygge on the edge of Hjarbæk Fjord, where classic kromad meets wide water views and glowing Jutland sunsets.
Restaurant Flammen
17.7 km
Hearty all-you-can-eat grill buffet in a former Viborg barracks, blending rustic warmth, family-friendly comforts and flexible group dining under one spacious roof.
Familie Cafeen Thai Take Away
17.8 km
Unfussy, family-run Thai takeaway in a Viborg neighbourhood, serving fragrant curries and wok dishes at wallet-friendly prices for easy, flavourful evenings.
Queens Corner
17.8 km
Classic Danish grill-bar comfort on Viborg’s ring road, serving hearty hot dogs, burgers and fries in a relaxed, family-friendly setting every day.
Den Kinesiske Mur
17.9 km
All‑you‑can‑eat Chinese and Asian buffet with Mongolian barbecue, sushi and dessert bar in a spacious, family‑friendly setting on Tingvej in Viborg.
Restaurant The Grill Viborg
18.0 km
Big, family-friendly grill and buffet inside Viborg’s Bowl’n’Fun, serving hearty roasts, salads, brunch favorites and desserts in a lively, group-ready setting.
Det Glade Vanvid Viborg
18.0 km
All-inclusive social dining in Viborg, where a seasonal gourmet menu, curated wines and relaxed Nordic design come together for long, convivial evenings.
Wild & Raw
18.0 km
Bright, casual vegan sportscafé in Viborg’s Tingvej complex, serving plant-based comfort food and coffee to athletes, locals and curious travellers alike.
Pemas Food Corner
18.2 km
Casual comfort food in central Viborg, serving burgers, pizza and easygoing plates from late morning to evening in a relaxed neighborhood setting.
Viborg City Rooms
18.3 km
Homely, self-catering guesthouse rooms with garden and terrace, quietly tucked in central Viborg just a short walk from the cathedral, museums and lakes.
Restaurant Salonen
18.3 km
Lakeside hotel dining in Viborg, where classic Danish and European dishes meet calm views over the town’s serene chain of lakes inside Golf Hotel Viborg.
Nytorv 11
18.4 km
Lively family-run gastro bar on Viborg’s central square, serving generous brunches, modern comfort food and cocktails from late morning to late night.
Restaurant Kehlet
18.4 km
Cosy Italian comfort food on Viborg’s main square, serving stone-baked pizzas, hearty pasta and relaxed, family-friendly dining from lunchtime into the evening.
Cafe K Viborg
18.4 km
All-day brasserie-style café in central Viborg, blending cozy Scandinavian design, flexible dining and a relaxed social buzz from breakfast to late evening.
Guldkalven
18.5 km
Cosy cellar restaurant in central Viborg, serving creative mini smørrebrød in a relaxed, modern Danish setting just steps from the historic Hjultorvet square.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Danmission Op Shop
16.8 km
Spacious Viborg charity thrift warehouse where bargain-hunting, reuse and global-minded giving come together under one practical, volunteer-run roof.
Antik Og Gammel
18.2 km
A cosy antique trove in Viborg’s old town, where Danish vintage finds, homely charm and slow browsing turn a quick stop into a small journey back in time.
Viborg Vest Marked
18.3 km
Viborg's authentic market hall celebrating seasonal produce, organic goods, and local artisanal specialties.
Kop & Kande
18.4 km
Specialist homeware and kitchenware in Viborg's town centre, staffed by passionate experts.
Garnshoppen
18.4 km
A cosy central Viborg knit shop where colourful yarns, expert advice and inspiring patterns come together for creative makers of all levels.
Sinnerup Viborg
18.4 km
Stylish Danish lifestyle store in central Viborg, blending modern interiors, furniture, décor and women’s fashion in one inspiring, design-led space.
Teenfashion.dk - House of Teens Viborg
18.4 km
Compact, trend-focused fashion boutique in Viborg’s centre, dedicated entirely to stylish clothing and outfits for tweens and teenagers.
Creme Fraiche Viborg
18.4 km
A compact women’s fashion boutique on Viborg’s Vestergade, blending approachable Scandinavian style, practical basics, and seasonal outfits in a relaxed high-street setting.
Dahl Vinhandel A / S
18.5 km
Viborg's premier destination for wines with personality, craft spirits, and gourmet discoveries.
Søster Laura
18.5 km
Viborg's dedicated sanctuary for retro gaming collectors and nostalgic console enthusiasts.
Viborg Stjerne Marked
18.5 km
Compact neighborhood mini‑market and halal butcher in Viborg’s historic center, blending everyday Danish staples with Middle Eastern flavors and friendly local service.
Saint
18.5 km
Contemporary Nordic fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of historic Viborg's shopping district.
The Old Garage
18.5 km
Characterful little vintage store in a former Viborg garage, where retro Danish furnishings, quirky curios and nostalgic finds wait behind an unassuming suburban door.
JACK & JONES
18.6 km
Central Viborg menswear stop for denim, casual staples and smart-casual outfits, set right on Sankt Mathias Gade beside the Sct. Mathias shopping center.
Tine Lund Viborg
18.6 km
Curated Scandinavian fashion, footwear, and jewelry in the heart of Viborg.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
My Way Pub
9.5 km
A cosy small-town Danish pub where darts, pool, bingo and the occasional live band create easygoing evenings in the heart of Aalestrup.
Kapias bodega
10.0 km
Cosy Gedsted neighborhood bodega offering cold beers, local company and unpretentious Danish hygge from quiet afternoons to lively weekend nights.
Mødestedet Viborg ApS
17.3 km
Cosy local bar and meeting place in Viborg, blending classic Danish pub vibes with flexible space for social events, dance evenings and everyday gatherings.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
18.1 km
High-energy après-ski style beer bar in central Viborg, pouring big drafts, loud music and late-night party vibes with free entry and group-friendly seating.
Tordenkalven
18.1 km
Cozy, no-frills bar in central Farsø, serving cold beer, simple drinks and plenty of small-town atmosphere in the heart of Himmerland.
Café Børsen
18.3 km
A long‑standing Viborg café‑bar where Danish hygge, history and late‑night drinks meet in one cozy, central hangout on Gravene.
Bodega Hegnet
18.3 km
Viborg's cozy neighborhood bar where affordable drinks, free pool, and live music create genuine local warmth.
Sportspub Målet
18.3 km
Classic Danish sports bodega in central Viborg, where cold beer, big matches, karaoke and late-night hygge keep the lights on long after the final whistle.
CRAVE Bar
18.4 km
Cosy Viborg bodega and karaoke bar where cold beers, pool games and sing-along nights blend into an easygoing, late-night local hangout.
Tema Bar
18.4 km
A loud, late‑night party bar in central Viborg with colorful lights, mainstream beats and no‑frills drinks, perfect for weekend dancing and a casual night out.
Rabalder Bar Viborg
18.4 km
Casual, colorful bar energy in the heart of Viborg’s old town, blending easygoing Danish hygge with lively late-night drinks and sociable weekend parties.
Terminalen I/S v/Carl Erik Agnskov M.Fl.
18.5 km
Unpretentious central Viborg bar with friendly staff, late weekend hours, affordable drinks and occasional karaoke nights in a laid-back pub setting.
Rockabilly Bar
18.5 km
Craft beer meets 1950s rock and roll in Viborg's most distinctive beer bar.
Holms Vinotek
18.5 km
Curated wines and artisanal tapas in a historic pharmacy turned sophisticated gathering place.
Mathias Kælderen
18.6 km
Cosy cellar bar in central Viborg offering hygge-filled evenings, rustic charm and relaxed drinks just steps below the historic streets of Sankt Mathias Gade.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly