Den Genfundne Bro (The Uncovered Bridge)
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
A striking red steel lattice bridge spanning the Gudenå River near Brædstrup, Den Genfundne Bro is a remarkable piece of Danish industrial heritage. Built in 1899 as part of a narrow-gauge railway, the 13.4-meter-high bridge was buried beneath a dam for 85 years before its dramatic excavation and restoration in 2014. Today, it stands as one of Denmark's most beloved excursion destinations, offering visitors a unique blend of history, engineering, and natural beauty in a picturesque riverside setting.
A brief summary to The Uncovered Bridge
- Vestbirkvej 2, Braedstrup, 8740, DK
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during clear, sunny weather to fully appreciate the bridge's striking red steel lattice structure and enjoy panoramic views over the Gudenå River and surrounding forest landscape.
- Arrive early on weekends and during peak summer months to secure parking, as the 85-space car park can fill quickly given the site's popularity as a regional attraction.
- Combine your bridge visit with a picnic using the on-site tables and benches, or extend your trip by walking the Horsens-Silkeborg Nature Trail to nearby Vestbirk Lakes or Brædstrup town.
- Bring a camera or smartphone—the bridge's distinctive architecture and riverside setting create excellent photography opportunities, particularly during golden hour or when framed against seasonal foliage.
- Read the on-site information boards to learn the full story of the bridge's construction in 1899, its 85-year burial, and its dramatic 2014 restoration—context that deepens appreciation of the site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Picnic Areas
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Parking
Getting There
-
Car from Horsens
Drive north from Horsens city center on Route 16 toward Brædstrup, approximately 20 kilometers. Follow signs toward Vestbirk and Brædstrup. The parking area is located at Vestbirkvej 2A, Brædstrup. Journey time is approximately 25–30 minutes. Free parking is available with 85 spaces, including accessible parking. From the car park, follow the well-maintained asphalt path approximately 300 meters to reach the bridge.
-
Car from Brædstrup
From Brædstrup town center, drive south on local roads toward Vestbirk village. The parking area at Vestbirkvej 2A is clearly signposted. Journey time is approximately 10–15 minutes. Note: GPS users should enter 'Brædstrup' as the destination to avoid being directed to nearby Østbirk. Free parking with accessible spaces is available.
-
Cycling from Brædstrup
The bridge is accessible via the Horsens-Silkeborg Nature Trail, which passes through the area. From Brædstrup town center, follow cycling routes toward Vestbirk. The journey is approximately 7 kilometers and takes 25–35 minutes depending on terrain and fitness level. The route passes through forest and countryside with moderate difficulty. Bike parking facilities are available at the site.
-
Walking from Brædstrup
The bridge can be reached on foot via the Horsens-Silkeborg Nature Trail, approximately 7 kilometers from Brædstrup town center. Walking time is approximately 90–120 minutes depending on pace and terrain. The route follows forest paths and country roads with some elevation changes. This option is suitable for experienced walkers with good fitness levels.
The Uncovered Bridge location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Uncovered Bridge
A Bridge Rediscovered After Nearly a Century
Den Genfundne Bro carries one of Denmark's most compelling stories of industrial archaeology and restoration. Built in 1899 by the construction firm Hoffman, Hansen & Co., this elegant red steel lattice bridge was engineered to carry a narrow-gauge railway across the Gudenå River as part of the private railway connection between Horsens and Bryrup. At 13.4 meters high and 50 meters long, it was the tallest bridge of its kind in the entire Nordic region when completed. The inauguration on April 22, 1899, marked the beginning of what would become a celebrated transportation route, with passengers paying 1.65 Danish kroner for the journey. By 1929, however, the bridge's fate changed dramatically. The standard railway gauge had been widened across Denmark, rendering the narrow-gauge bridge obsolete and too expensive to modify. Rather than demolish it, engineers made an extraordinary decision: they buried the bridge entirely beneath a dam structure, covering it with sand and earth to create a foundation for the wider tracks above. For the next 85 years, the bridge lay hidden from view, its existence fading from public memory as nature and time obscured its presence.The Dramatic Excavation and Restoration
In 2014, the Municipality of Horsens initiated an ambitious restoration project that would transform Den Genfundne Bro from a forgotten relic into a celebrated landmark. The excavation began on April 7, 2014, and immediately captured public imagination—media coverage and television crews documented the process as the first steel grid saw daylight after nearly nine decades of concealment. The restoration team was astonished to discover the bridge in remarkably fine condition, a testament to the quality of its original construction and the protective environment created by the dam. The restoration process was meticulous and comprehensive. The horizontal upper structure was carefully uncovered, then sandblasted at 3000 bar pressure to remove accumulated deposits. During this delicate work, the entire bridge element was wrapped to prevent old lead-based paint from contaminating the creek below. The structure was then ground, primed, and repainted with careful attention to every detail. In mid-August 2014, the supporting bridge towers underwent the same treatment. Finally, robust Azobe wood planking was installed to create a safe pedestrian walkway, and modern safety railings were added. The creek itself was stabilized with large rocks and spawning sites for trout. The official inauguration on December 13, 2014, drew crowds once again, celebrating the bridge's return to public life.Engineering Marvel and Industrial Heritage
What makes Den Genfundne Bro extraordinary is not merely its age or its hidden history, but the engineering sophistication it represents. The bridge embodies late 19th-century industrial design at its finest—a delicate balance of structural integrity, aesthetic refinement, and functional purpose. Its red steel lattice construction was state-of-the-art for its time, and the restoration has preserved this character while making it safe and accessible for modern visitors. Standing on the bridge today, you can appreciate both the craftsmanship of 1899 and the dedication of the 2014 restoration team. The surrounding landscape tells an equally important story. The dam that buried the bridge was itself an engineering feat, constructed to harness the power of the Gudenå River. Water was diverted through two pipes to power two Francis turbines that drove the machinery of Bredvad Mill, demonstrating how the river's energy was central to the region's industrial economy. This layered history—railway, hydropower, agriculture—makes the site a window into Denmark's industrial past.A Perfect Excursion Destination
Today, Den Genfundne Bro serves as an ideal base for exploring the natural and cultural richness of the Bakkelandet area. The site features excellent facilities including a large car park with 85 spaces (including accessible parking), picnic tables, benches, and well-maintained paths. A smooth asphalt path from the parking area ensures wheelchair access to the bridge and surrounding grounds. The bridge itself, with its sturdy railings and wooden walkway, offers safe passage for visitors of all ages to experience the view over the Gudenå—Denmark's only river that flows naturally without human intervention. The location has become one of Denmark's most popular outdoor attractions, drawing visitors year-round. The surrounding forest and riverside setting provide a tranquil backdrop for contemplation and photography. On clear days, the red bridge against the green landscape creates a striking visual composition that has made it increasingly popular with photographers and social media enthusiasts.Gateway to Wider Exploration
While the bridge itself is the primary attraction, its location makes it an excellent starting point for longer explorations. The site forms part of the Horsens-Silkeborg Nature Trail, offering opportunities for extended hiking and cycling. Following the trail southeast for 1.3 kilometers through the forest leads to Vestbirk Lakes, where visitors can enjoy views of Naldal Lake and Vestbirk Lake. Continuing further reveals the newly established Natur Østbirk. Heading northwest instead, a 7-kilometer walk through varied terrain leads to the charming town of Brædstrup, where cafes and restaurants offer refreshment. For those seeking structured routes, two recorded hiking paths of 5 and 11 kilometers are available, complete with maps and descriptions of experiences along the way. Horseback riders can use a specially constructed ford to cross the river.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ejer Bavnehøj
8.8 km
A modest Danish hill with a mighty horizon, Ejer Bavnehøj blends reunification history, beacon legends and big-sky views into an easy, rewarding countryside stop.
Genforeningssten på Ejer Bavnehøj
8.8 km
Denmark's third-highest point crowned with a monumental 1920 reunification memorial and iconic tower.
Ejerbavnehøj MØDESTED
11.3 km
Denmark's third-highest peak crowned by a 1924 monument to national reunification, offering panoramic views and historic significance.
Jættestuen grønhøj
12.8 km
5.000 år gammel jættestue midt i det østjyske kulturlandskab – et stille møde mellem bondestenalderens stenkonstruktioner, skov, marker og Bygholm Sø.
Årtusindeskifte Eg
13.9 km
An ancient oak rooted in Horsens' heart, where nature and urban life converge in timeless harmony.
Horsens Tourist Information Centre
14.3 km
Experience the heart of Danish comedy at Odense Comediehuus, where culture and laughter unite in the vibrant city center.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
14.6 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
15.2 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Bilka Horsens
16.3 km
Experience the rich theatrical heritage of Odense at the historic Comediehuus, a cultural landmark since its inception.
De Små Fisk
20.2 km
Discover De Små Fisk near Silkeborg: a serene lakeside escape with a child-friendly beach, scenic trails, and primitive camping, perfect for nature lovers and families seeking outdoor adventures.
Knagerne Silkeborg
20.6 km
Explore Knagerne Silkeborg, an untouched ancient forest where time stands still, offering a unique and immersive nature experience in the heart of Denmark's Lake District.
Lovisehøj
20.8 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Det gamle vandtårn
21.0 km
Skanderborg's 41.5-meter castle-style water tower from 1908—a striking symbol of industrial heritage and urban progress.
Kroghs Bænk
21.3 km
Elevated forest sanctuary with panoramic lake views and 19th-century heritage
AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park
21.7 km
Roskilde’s historic main square blends medieval roots with lively markets and café culture, making it an essential stop in the heart of town.
Unmissable attractions to see
Slaggård Banke
3.2 km
Bronze Age barrows, big-sky vistas and a stargazing shelter on a glacial ridge above the Gudenå Valley, just beyond the village of Østbirk in Central Jutland.
Yding Skovhøjs parkeringsplads
6.9 km
Denmark's highest point awaits at this forest gateway, crowned with ancient Bronze Age mounds.
Abbey Mill
7.4 km
Historic monastery mill turned lakeside retreat, where Denmark’s longest wooden building, canoe-filled waterways and big-sky views meet in the Mossø hills.
Yding Skovhøj
7.5 km
Ancient Bronze Age burial mounds, gentle forest trails and a long-running “highest point” debate meet atop this modest yet characterful hill in East Jutland.
Møllehøj
8.5 km
Stand on Denmark’s highest natural point atop a quiet Jutland farm hill, marked by a lone millstone and wide views across the gently rolling Ejerbjerge.
Møllehøj, DK's highest hill
8.5 km
A modest hill with a millstone marker, Møllehøj turns Denmark’s highest natural point into a gentle countryside detour packed with quiet geographic significance.
Genforeningstårn på Ejer Bavnehøj
8.8 km
Step inside a living time capsule at Mølholmgård Købmandsmuseum, where the charm of Denmark’s rural merchant life is preserved in a historic village setting.
Møllehjulet
8.8 km
Compact circular kiosk and information hub on Denmark’s rooftop at Ejer Bavnehøj, combining refreshments, facilities and landscape insight amid sweeping views.
Mossø
9.1 km
Jutland’s largest lake, where wide horizons, protected birdlife and easygoing outdoor adventures meet in the rolling Danish Lake Highlands.
Øm Klostermuseum
9.6 km
Atmospheric monastery ruins and a specialist museum in skeletal archaeology, set between Jutland’s lakes with herb gardens, graves and traces of medieval monastic life.
Kallehave bålhytte
10.2 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.
Justenborg Vin & Juletræer
11.3 km
Cut your own Christmas tree and taste estate-grown Danish wine in Skanderborg's countryside.
Tåning Å
11.8 km
A serene stream through Denmark's lake highlands, perfect for canoeing and wildlife observation.
Ulvedalen
13.7 km
A small, forested ravine on Horsens’ edge where woodland paths, gentle hills and playful “Naturetales” walks turn an ordinary outing into a quiet, story-filled escape.
Ry havn
13.9 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.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Møllebæk
10.7 km
Rural Danish restaurant and events venue near Gedved, renowned for hearty stegt flæsk evenings and relaxed, homely celebrations in a countryside setting.
Lyng Dal Hotel og Restaurant
11.3 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.
Amalielund Mad - Horsens
13.1 km
Relaxed Danish dining and flexible catering in green surroundings by Horsens Golf Club, combining classic smørrebrød, hearty comfort food and seasonal menus.
Café Himmelsk
13.8 km
Homemade pastries and mountain views in Denmark's legendary lake district.
KobKun
13.8 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.
Byens Kylling & Pizza Ry
13.9 km
Casual neighborhood pizza and chicken takeaway in Ry, serving hearty portions and familiar flavors for easy, budget‑friendly dinners after a day outdoors.
Restaurant Kystens Perle
13.9 km
Lakeside skovrestaurant by Bygholm Sø serving hearty, traditional Danish comfort food in relaxed, old‑school surroundings with wide views of water and forest.
Umisushi
13.9 km
Neighbourhood sushi and takeaway in the lakeside town of Ry, serving fresh rolls and casual Japanese favourites in a relaxed, modern setting.
Ry Gastropub
13.9 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
13.9 km
Contemporary comfort in Denmark's scenic heartland, where golf, hiking, and local gastronomy meet.
Brasseri Ry'tteriet
13.9 km
Intimate hotel brasserie in lakeside Ry, pairing French‑inspired comfort food, seasonal Danish ingredients and candlelit evening ambience in the heart of Søhøjlandet.
Restaurant Da Angelo
14.0 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Ry's charming lakeside town center.
Lakeside Ry - Restaurant
14.0 km
Intimate waterfront dining blending Nordic tradition with global innovation in Denmark's Lake District.
Svejstrup Præstegård
14.3 km
Historic rectory garden transformed into a seasonal summer restaurant and cultural venue.
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
14.5 km
Casual hilltop cafeteria at Himmelbjerget, serving classic Danish comfort food and ice cream with wide views over the Silkeborg lakes and surrounding forests.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Red Cross Op Shop
3.5 km
Volunteer-run Red Cross thrift shop in Østbirk where low-priced fashion, furniture and curios support both local community life and international humanitarian work.
Anne & Lotte
3.8 km
A cozy little gift shop on Østbirk’s main street, filled with Scandinavian-style homewares and thoughtful presents in a relaxed, small-town atmosphere.
McCabe's Riding / McCabe's Tack & Feed
5.2 km
Rural Jutland’s one-stop equestrian hub, combining a working riding centre atmosphere with a well-stocked tack and feed store for riders and horse lovers.
Christys Festtøj
10.5 km
Gedved's premier boutique for bridal gowns and elegant occasion wear.
Ville vintage
10.6 km
Discover timeless treasures and unique vintage finds at Ville Vintage in Skanderborg.
Deko Home - Danish Recycling Furniture
10.7 km
Timeless Danish furniture crafted entirely from recycled wood in a working studio.
Else Rønne Keramik
10.8 km
Handcrafted Danish ceramics emphasizing minimalist design and functional beauty in a rural Jutland workshop.
Shell / 7-Eleven Ejer Bavnehøj West
10.9 km
24/7 motorway pit stop at Ejer Bavnehøj, combining Shell fuel and a compact 7‑Eleven shop for coffee, snacks and essentials on the E45 through Jutland.
Dagli'Brugsen Gl. Rye
11.4 km
Community-owned supermarket where every purchase strengthens local bonds and supports sustainable living.
Made by Ella
11.5 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.
Boserup Keramik
12.0 km
Intimate countryside ceramics studio in East Jutland, where handcrafted stoneware cups, vases and sculptures are created and sold directly from the potter’s own workshop.
Provence Antik
12.1 km
Curated Provençal antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Skanderborg.
Nordic Yarn - a woolly affair
13.8 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.
by Diana
13.8 km
An intimate Ry lingerie boutique offering personal fittings, Scandinavian style and a carefully curated selection of everyday essentials and special-occasion pieces.
Rye Nørskov Gårdbutik
13.8 km
Historic farm shop in a mill building, selling wild game from estate forests with uncompromising quality and sustainability.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sprutskuret I/S
3.8 km
A cosy, no-fuss neighborhood bar on Østbirk’s main street, where simple drinks, local life and unhurried conversations create a classic small-town Danish atmosphere.
Høkeren
13.9 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
13.9 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
13.9 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.
Kom Tit
15.0 km
Smoky, old-school Horsens pub in a yellow 19th-century building, with cheap beers, billiards, darts and a laid-back local crowd from midday to late night.
Værtshuse
15.4 km
A compact, traditional Danish bar on Allegade in Horsens, serving simple drinks and everyday atmosphere for those who enjoy classic brown‑pub charm.
The Long Field Road
15.4 km
AC Horsens’ Irish-inspired fan pub, where yellow-and-black passion, cold beer and stadium buzz come together in one lively Horsens clubhouse.
Horsens Sport og Pool Bar
15.5 km
Central Horsens sports bar with 23 screens, pool tables, and competitive games in a welcoming, energetic atmosphere.
Stalden
15.6 km
Relaxed pool and sports bar in central Horsens, blending cue sports, big-screen matches, board games, casual bites and easygoing drinks in one social hangout.
Hemingway's Horsens
15.6 km
Late-night bar and nightclub in central Horsens, delivering cocktail-fueled weekends, loud music, and a packed dance floor until the early morning hours.
Morzybitten
15.6 km
Cozy Danish pub‑brasserie in central Horsens, pairing classic smørrebrød and hearty dishes with a remarkably broad beer list and occasional intimate live music.
Restaurant Wulff ApS
15.6 km
Late-night bar and nightclub-style hangout in central Horsens, turning quiet Rædersgade into a lively social hub on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Vores lille Vinbar
15.7 km
An intimate Horsens wine bar where candlelight, jazz and personal guidance meet a carefully curated selection of wines by the glass and bottle.
The Golden Horse
15.7 km
Unpretentious local bar in central Horsens, pouring affordable drinks from morning to late night amid slot machines, sports on TV and easygoing neighborhood chat.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar Horsens A/S
15.7 km
High-energy Alpine after-ski bar in central Horsens with big beer steins, Schlager singalongs and a late-night dance-floor party vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
