Himmelbjergtårnet (Himmelbjerg Tower)
Historic memorial tower on Himmelbjerget’s summit, combining Denmark’s constitutional heritage with sweeping lake and forest views in the heart of Søhøjlandet.
Crowning the summit of Himmelbjerget near Ry in Søhøjlandet, Himmelbjergtårnet is a 25 m red-brick memorial tower to King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 1849 constitution. Surrounded by forested hills and glittering lakes, the tower combines sweeping views with deep national symbolism. Climb the interior stairs for panoramic vistas, then wander nearby walking trails, picnic spots and classic excursion kiosks that continue a 19th‑century day-trip tradition.
A brief summary to Himmelbjergtårnet
- Himmelbjergvej 20, Ry, 8680, DK
- +4586898451
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Bring coins or a payment card for the small tower admission and nearby paid parking, as both help fund maintenance of the hilltop area.
- Wear comfortable shoes; although the main paths are well maintained, the slopes around the hill and forest trails can be steep and uneven.
- Aim for early morning or late afternoon on clear days for softer light, fewer people at the viewing platform and more atmospheric lake vistas.
- Pack a windproof layer even in summer, as the exposed summit and tower platform can feel noticeably cooler and breezier than the forest below.
- If travelling with children, allow extra time for the playgrounds and open grassy areas near the summit, which are ideal for unstructured play.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Regional bus from Ry or Silkeborg
From either Ry or Silkeborg, you can take a regional bus service that runs to the Himmelbjerget area, with a stop near the main car park close to the hilltop. The ride typically takes around 20–30 minutes from Ry and 30–40 minutes from Silkeborg, depending on the timetable and intermediate stops. A single adult ticket usually costs in the range of 25–50 DKK within this part of Jutland. Services run more frequently on weekdays and in the daytime, so check current schedules and note that evening and weekend departures may be limited.
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Car from Ry town
If you arrive by car from Ry, the drive through the countryside to the Himmelbjerget summit area generally takes about 10–15 minutes. At the top you will find signposted parking areas close to the paths that lead to the tower. Parking is paid by the hour, with the first hour often priced around 10 DKK and subsequent hours slightly cheaper; payment is by coins, card or common parking apps. In high summer and on public holidays the main car parks can fill up by late morning, so earlier or later visits help avoid congestion.
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Boat trip across the lakes (summer season)
In the warmer months, a classic way to reach Himmelbjerget is by excursion boat from Ry or Silkeborg across the interconnected lakes to a landing place below the hill. The cruise itself typically takes 45–75 minutes depending on route, and return tickets are usually in the range of 120–200 DKK per adult. From the lakeside landing, allow about 15–25 minutes to walk uphill on a well‑made but steadily climbing path through the forest to the summit area. Boats run mainly from late spring to early autumn, with denser schedules in school holidays and on weekends.
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Walking route from Ry
For those who enjoy longer walks, there are marked trails linking Ry with the base of Himmelbjerget through the surrounding woods and lake scenery. Expect a one‑way hiking time of roughly 1.5–2.5 hours depending on route choice and pace, with some sections involving moderate climbs and uneven forest paths. This option is free apart from any transport back, but it is best suited to visitors with reasonable fitness and sturdy footwear. In wet weather, surfaces can be muddy and slippery, so plan accordingly and allow extra time.
Himmelbjergtårnet 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 Himmelbjergtårnet
A tower above the lakes of Søhøjlandet
Himmelbjergtårnet stands on the crest of Himmelbjerget, one of Denmark’s most storied hills, rising high above the waters of Julsø and the surrounding lake district. The brick tower is 25 metres tall, but what makes it feel much higher is its perch roughly 125 metres over the lake, offering broad views of woodlands, patchwork fields and island-dotted water. On clear days the horizon seems to stretch endlessly across central Jutland. From the base, sturdy internal steps lead you to a compact viewing platform, where the tower’s renaissance-inspired outline frames the landscape. The wind is often brisk here, carrying the scent of pine and beech from the forests that cloak the slopes. Below, paths twist through the trees and down towards the shoreline, inviting longer rambles after you have taken in the view from the top.Monument to a king and a constitution
More than a viewpoint, Himmelbjergtårnet is a monument to Denmark’s democratic turning point. It was inaugurated in 1875 in honour of King Frederik VII, who signed the constitution of 1849 and helped steer the country from absolute monarchy towards parliamentary rule. An inscription running around the tower commemorates him as “the Danish people’s friend” and “giver of the constitution”, while a sculpted portrait relief and wreath motifs underline the commemorative purpose. The idea for a tower arose from civic debates in the mid-19th century, when gatherings were held on Himmelbjerget to celebrate the new freedoms. A dedicated committee raised funds over several years before construction began, and the completed tower quickly became a national symbol. Its appearance has remained virtually unchanged since the late 19th century, lending a sense of continuity to the hilltop and anchoring the landscape in the story of modern Denmark.A classic Danish excursion landscape
Around the tower spreads a landscape long associated with day trips, hikes and open-air meetings. Grassy clearings, scattered picnic tables and small playgrounds make the top of Himmelbjerget feel like a natural gathering place. In season, kiosks and a café serve ice cream, sausage and coffee, echoing the traditions of 19th‑century excursion trade and souvenir stalls that once sold carved walking sticks and wooden trinkets. Beyond the busiest area, marked walking routes lead into quieter parts of the forest. Short circuits loop along the rim of the hill with alternative viewpoints over the lakes, while longer paths descend towards Julsø or continue into the broader Søhøjlandet trail network. The mix of open slopes and dense woodland means you can easily step away from the crowds and enjoy more tranquil corners within a few minutes’ walk of the tower.Visiting the tower today
The hilltop area is freely accessible year-round, and you can enjoy the views from the plateau in any season. Access to the inside of Himmelbjergtårnet itself is by a small paid ticket, with income used for upkeep of the tower and nearby memorials. Opening hours concentrate on spring, summer and early autumn, when the doors are generally open daily during the day, and on weekends and holidays in the shoulder periods. Facilities on and around the summit include restrooms, seating and information boards introducing the area’s nature and history. In the high season the atmosphere can be lively, with families, walkers and excursion groups sharing the paths, while early mornings and outside school holidays often feel quieter. Solid footwear is helpful, especially if you plan to explore the steeper forest trails or continue down towards the lakeshore.Seasons, weather and atmosphere
Himmelbjergtårnet has a different character with the changing seasons. In late spring and summer, beech leaves create a fresh green canopy around the hill, and long daylight hours give you plenty of time to explore. Autumn often brings striking colours to the woods and softer light over the lakes, making the view from the tower especially photogenic. Winter days can be crisp and windy on the exposed summit, but the openness of the hill means even low-angled sunshine feels bright. Whatever the time of year, the combination of cultural history and expansive scenery makes a visit feel both contemplative and recreational. You can choose to focus on the memorial inscriptions and Denmark’s constitutional story, on the simple pleasure of looking out across water and woodland, or on a longer walk linking the tower with other viewpoints in Søhøjlandet. Many visitors end up doing a bit of everything, weaving the tower naturally into a wider day out in the Danish countryside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
0.2 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
0.5 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Lovisehøj
7.9 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Water Tower
10.7 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
10.9 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Randershøj
11.3 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
11.3 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Silkeborg Rovfugleshow
11.3 km
Experience the thrill of birds of prey in action at Silkeborg Rovfugleshow, a captivating nature preserve offering breathtaking aerial displays and educational insights into the avian world.
Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo
11.5 km
A colossal wooden troll crafted from recycled materials—where art, nature, and Nordic folklore converge near Silkeborg's serene lake.
Store Troldhøj
12.4 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Landal Søhøjlandet
12.8 km
Escape to Landal Søhøjlandet in Denmark's Lake District: Family fun, water park thrills, outdoor adventures, and tranquil nature await in this scenic holiday paradise near Silkeborg.
Funder Ruin
13.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modern life at Stændertorvet, Roskilde's central square.
Yding Skovhøj
13.7 km
Discover Yding Skovhøj, one of Denmark's highest points, offering scenic hiking trails, ancient burial mounds, and panoramic views in the heart of Jutland's beautiful lake district.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
14.0 km
Discover Denmark's automotive history at Jutland's Automobile Museum in Gjern, showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles from the early 1900s to iconic post-war models, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's motoring heritage.
The Uncovered Bridge
14.7 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Himmelbjerget
0.0 km
Iconic Danish “mountain” above the Silkeborg lakes, blending sweeping forest-and-lake views with constitutional history, forest trails and classic excursion life.
Bestig Himmelbjerget
0.3 km
Follow a classic forest trail from lakeshore to the summit of Denmark’s fabled Sky Mountain, combining gentle ascent, big views and layers of national history.
H.C. Andersen bench
0.4 km
Discover Råbjerg Mile, Northern Europe’s largest migrating sand dune—a stunning, ever-shifting landscape near Skagen, perfect for exploration and breathtaking views.
Turbådene Himmelbjerget
0.5 km
Classic excursion boats carrying you from lakeside Ry through serene Søhøjlandet to the foot of Denmark’s famed Himmelbjerget for views, walks and fresh air.
Dynæs voldsted
1.8 km
Quiet medieval castle mounds and deep ditches on a wooded peninsula in the Silkeborg Lakes, where earthworks, water and forest hint at a vanished stronghold.
Gammelkol
2.3 km
A modest historic site folded into Silkeborg’s forests, where quiet paths, subtle landforms and shifting light reveal the long story of Denmark’s lake country.
FDF Outdoor Center Sletten
2.8 km
Denmark's premier outdoor recreation hub where free activities, mountain biking, and nature immersion meet modern comfort.
Himmelbjergegnens Tårnhøje Tårn
2.9 km
Historic hilltop tower above Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests, blending Denmark’s constitutional story with sweeping Jutland views and atmospheric woodland paths.
Maskenkol
3.8 km
A quiet stretch of Knudsø’s northern shore, Maskenkol offers gentle lakeside walking, open views and everyday Danish nature just beyond the town of Ry.
Høgdal
4.3 km
An 18th-century hilltop farm near Silkeborg, preserved as a living window into Danish rural life amid the soft landscapes of the Søhøjlandet lake district.
Ry havn
4.4 km
Quiet lakeside marina in Ry, offering relaxed waterfront life, boat trips into the Silkeborg Lakes and easy access to the gentle hills of Denmark’s lake district.
Kallehave bålhytte
4.6 km
A modest grill shelter tucked into the Kallehave woods near Gl. Rye, perfect for unhurried campfire cooking and a quiet break on forest hikes.
Kongestolen
4.8 km
A compact forest summit above Slåensø, Kongestolen pairs a short, steep climb with far‑reaching lake and woodland views in the heart of the Silkeborg hills.
Knudhule strand
6.2 km
Blue Flag lakeside escape near Ry, offering child‑friendly swimming, gentle views over Knudsø and a relaxed, low‑key setting in the hills of Søhøjlandet.
Labyrinthia
6.8 km
A countryside maze and puzzle park near Them, where 3D labyrinths, water mazes, dog-friendly challenges, and an indoor Puzzle Center turn getting lost into pure family fun.
Essential places to dine
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
0.3 km
Casual hilltop cafeteria at Himmelbjerget, serving classic Danish comfort food and ice cream with wide views over the Silkeborg lakes and surrounding forests.
Café Himmelsk
1.0 km
Homemade pastries and mountain views in Denmark's legendary lake district.
Lyng Dal Hotel og Restaurant
3.5 km
Intimate family-run hotel and seasonal restaurant in Ry, where garden-driven Danish cuisine, good wine and quiet countryside surroundings create a cosy Jutland escape.
Restaurant Aalekroen
3.7 km
Classic Danish kro-style restaurant on the shores of Julsø, pairing hearty traditional dishes and fried eel with sweeping lakeside views near Silkeborg.
Traktørstedet Ludvigslyst
3.9 km
Organic lakeside dining in a light-filled country villa above Lake Julsø, where local ingredients, house-baked bread and garden herbs define every seasonal plate.
Lakeside Ry - Restaurant
4.5 km
Intimate waterfront dining blending Nordic tradition with global innovation in Denmark's Lake District.
Brasseri Ry'tteriet
4.7 km
Intimate hotel brasserie in lakeside Ry, pairing French‑inspired comfort food, seasonal Danish ingredients and candlelit evening ambience in the heart of Søhøjlandet.
Ry Gastropub
4.7 km
Relaxed gastropub heart of Ry, serving comforting pub favourites, modern Danish flavours and easygoing drinks in a warm, social setting from lunch to late evening.
Hotel Ry
4.7 km
Contemporary comfort in Denmark's scenic heartland, where golf, hiking, and local gastronomy meet.
Restaurant Da Angelo
4.8 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Ry's charming lakeside town center.
Byens Kylling & Pizza Ry
4.8 km
Casual neighborhood pizza and chicken takeaway in Ry, serving hearty portions and familiar flavors for easy, budget‑friendly dinners after a day outdoors.
KobKun
4.8 km
Tiny Thai kitchen in the heart of Ry, serving fragrant curries and stir-fries in an intimate 13-seat space with a strong local takeaway following.
Umisushi
4.9 km
Neighbourhood sushi and takeaway in the lakeside town of Ry, serving fresh rolls and casual Japanese favourites in a relaxed, modern setting.
Restaurant Gastronomisk Institut
6.2 km
Seasonal Danish–French cooking, a serious wine cellar and wide lake views come together at this refined yet relaxed restaurant inside Knudhule Badehotel.
Knudhule Badehotel og Gastronomisk Institut
6.2 km
Award-winning lakeside hotel and fine dining destination in Denmark's scenic Søhøjlandet region.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ørneboden
0.2 km
Small hilltop souvenir shop on Himmelbjerget, pairing simple treats and mementos with big views over Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests above Ry.
Ugleboden
0.2 km
Casual ice cream and souvenir stall on Himmelbjerget, adding a sweet, no-frills pause to hikes and family outings in the wooded hills above Ry.
Bjerghytten
0.3 km
Bjerghytten: Savor Ice Cream Delights Amidst Himmelbjerget's Scenic Beauty
Bjerg-kiosken
0.3 km
Compact hilltop kiosk on Himmelbjerget serving ice cream, snacks and drinks to walkers and day-trippers at one of Denmark’s most iconic viewpoint areas near Ry.
Nordic Yarn - a woolly affair
2.0 km
A cosy, family-run Nordic wool shop on a Jutland farm near Ry, where Icelandic and Norwegian yarn fill the shelves and horses graze just outside.
Laven Antikvariat
3.1 km
Rare books, organic coffee, and genuine warmth in a charming village shop.
Made by Ella
3.3 km
Intimate goldsmith’s studio in Ry, where local jewelry artist Julie Ella Jappe handcrafts custom designs and contemporary pieces in a calm, small-town setting.
Dagli'Brugsen Gl. Rye
3.4 km
Community-owned supermarket where every purchase strengthens local bonds and supports sustainable living.
ByStenholt
3.6 km
A calm, contemporary womenswear boutique in Ry, blending Nordic style with small-town ease and serving as the local face of a modern Danish fashion webshop.
Rye Nørskov Gårdbutik
4.4 km
Historic farm shop in a mill building, selling wild game from estate forests with uncompromising quality and sustainability.
Hanne Linding Denmark / BUTIK No. 9 Ry
4.7 km
Intimate Ry boutique by textile artist Hanne Linding, showcasing feminine Danish knitwear, curated colors and timeless, everyday Scandinavian design.
Kandis
4.7 km
A welcoming Ry specialty shop where wine, sweets, gourmet delicacies and thoughtful gifts come together under one cosy, carefully curated roof.
Toft suits men & women
4.7 km
Distinctive menswear and womenswear for those who value timeless quality and personal style.
Hanghøj
4.7 km
A cosy Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Ry, offering curated women’s clothing, accessories and gifts with a relaxed, personal touch.
Red Cross Op Shop
4.8 km
Community-powered Danish thrift store in Ry, where low-cost second-hand finds help fund Red Cross humanitarian work and support more sustainable shopping.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Høkeren
4.7 km
Possibly Denmark’s smallest pub, Høkeren in Ry distills classic Danish tavern culture into 18 sociable square meters of wood, warmth and well‑poured drinks.
La Vinya
4.7 km
Chic wine bar and tapas lounge in Ry, offering curated wines, local bites, and cozy ambiance—perfect for unwinding after your Himmelbjerget adventure.
Ambolten Ry
4.9 km
Cosy neighborhood bar and social hub in the heart of Ry, mixing cold beers, live music and small-town charm in a laid-back, living-room atmosphere.
Dartklubben Potten
9.5 km
A classic Danish darts clubhouse in Låsby, where competitive heritage, cold drinks and small-town hygge come together around the oche.
Bakkens bodega
10.4 km
Unpretentious beer hall on Århusvej where locals, cold drafts and simple pub fare create a slice of everyday Silkeborg life from late morning to late evening.
Bodega Hjørnet
10.6 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Cafe' Paradis
10.6 km
A compact, old‑school bodega in central Silkeborg, serving cold beers, local atmosphere and late‑night conversation in an unpretentious, lived‑in bar setting.
The Admiral Pub
10.8 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
Café Kling Klang
10.8 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Sportspubben Målet
10.9 km
A cozy, no-frills sports pub in central Silkeborg, where big screens, cold beer and local chatter turn every match day into a shared living room.
Roxy Malt
11.0 km
Irish-inspired Silkeborg pub with live music, quizzes, speciality beers and a cosy courtyard, blending retro charm with late-night energy in the town centre.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
11.0 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
11.0 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
11.0 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
Rabalder Bar
11.0 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
