Masnedø Fort
Grassy island stronghold turned cultural venue, Masnedø Fort blends coastal views, underground corridors and pivotal 20th‑century history near Vordingborg.
Masnedø Fort is a grass-covered coastal stronghold on the small island of Masnedø near Vordingborg, built between 1912 and 1915 to guard the Storstrømmen strait and the vital rail and road link between Zealand and Falster. Once bristling with heavy artillery and garrisoned by hundreds of soldiers, it later became infamous for being seized by German paratroopers in 1940 in one of the earliest airborne assaults. Today its ramparts, tunnels and sweeping sea views form an atmospheric historic site and seasonal arts venue, freely accessible year-round.
A brief summary to Masnedø Fort
- Masnedø, Vordingborg, 4760, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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
- The outdoor areas are freely accessible year-round; time your visit for the annual summer exhibition if you want to explore the interior casemates and galleries.
- Wear sturdy shoes; paths run over grassed ramparts and uneven concrete, and some underground sections can be cool and slightly damp even in summer.
- Bring water, snacks and a windproof layer, as the exposed coastal setting can feel breezy even on clear, sunny days.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Train and taxi from Vordingborg
From Vordingborg Station, take a regional train service if you are arriving from Copenhagen or Nykøbing Falster, then continue by local taxi to Masnedø Fort. The taxi ride typically takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic and seasonal bridge works, and costs in the region of 120–180 DKK one way. Services operate year-round, but in peak summer or during major construction on the new bridge, allow extra time for possible congestion.
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Cycling from Vordingborg town
Cycling from central Vordingborg to Masnedø Fort usually takes around 20–30 minutes on relatively flat terrain, using local roads and cycle-friendly routes across the bridge to Masnedø island. There is no dedicated bike hire at the fort itself, so arrange a bicycle in town beforehand. Be aware that wind over the strait can be strong, making the ride more demanding, and visibility and surface conditions are less suitable in winter or during heavy rain.
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Car from greater Zealand
Drivers coming from other parts of Zealand can follow the main routes towards Vordingborg and continue over to Masnedø island, reaching the fort area in approximately 5–15 minutes from the town outskirts, or 1.5–2 hours from Copenhagen depending on traffic. There is usually informal, free parking near the fort, but spaces can be limited during summer events and arts festivals, when arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
Masnedø Fort location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Masnedø Fort
Island fortress at the gateway to southern Zealand
Masnedø Fort occupies a grassy rise on the low-lying island of Masnedø, set between Zealand and Falster and facing the busy Storstrømmen strait. Built into the landscape rather than towering over it, the fort almost disappears beneath turf and shrubs until you are close, when the curving ramparts and concrete structures slowly reveal themselves. From the outer embankments you look out across water, bridges and passing ships, a reminder of why this modest island was once of great strategic value. The site covers roughly 45,000 square metres, with open lawns, covered gun positions and scattered military buildings telling the story of early 20th-century coastal defence. Paths trace the outline of the former batteries, and from the top of the earthworks you gain some of the best wide-angle views of the Storstrøm Bridge and its newer neighbour carrying the modern rail line.From Copenhagen’s shield to wartime frontline
Construction of Masnedø Fort began in 1912 as part of a wider defensive ring designed to protect Copenhagen and the approaches to Zealand. Armed with heavy steel cannons and howitzers, the fort’s task was to secure both the sea lane and the critical land connection between Zealand and Lolland-Falster. In the years following completion, a substantial garrison of artillery troops lived and trained here in what was then a thoroughly modern installation of concrete, armour and underground galleries. On 9 April 1940, Masnedø Fort unexpectedly entered world military history. In the opening hours of the German invasion of Denmark, paratroopers dropped onto the island and captured the fort and nearby bridge in one of the first true airborne assaults on a fixed position. Control of this narrow corridor was vital for the rapid advance north, and the fort remained under German command throughout the Second World War, adapting to new roles and technologies as the conflict unfolded.Hidden corridors and post-war transformations
Beneath the grassy surface a network of underground corridors, magazines and rooms once buzzed with activity. Ammunition was stored below ground, and protected passages connected the gun emplacements, command posts and living quarters. After the war, the strong construction and secluded location made the fort suitable for a range of new uses, from military storage to more secretive activities that took advantage of its isolation and robust design. By the 1970s local authorities had taken over ownership, and in the mid-1990s the fort was formally protected as a national historical monument. This status preserved its characteristic earthworks, gun positions and subterranean spaces, ensuring that later adaptations would respect the original structure. Today, some areas remain in use by the Danish Home Guard, giving the place a subtle sense of continuity as a still-active, if largely peaceful, military site.Art, culture and life within the ramparts
Masnedø Fort is more than a static relic. Each summer the interior spaces host a contemporary art exhibition, transforming the old casemates and rooms into an atmospheric gallery. Installations and paintings are shown against bare concrete walls, low arched ceilings and the filtered daylight that seeps in through narrow openings once designed for observation and defence. At other times, performances and occasional concerts lend the fort an unexpected cultural energy. Between events, the grassy courtyards and ring of embankments invite unhurried exploration. Children can clamber along the slopes while adults follow the traces of former gun pits and lookout points, comparing the peaceful scene with historical photos and diagrams. The island setting, with sea birds overhead and the sound of wind across the structures, makes it easy to imagine the very different atmosphere here during exercises or under wartime alert.Views, walks and quiet corners by the Storstrømmen
The area around the fort lends itself to simple pleasures: a slow circuit of the walls, a pause on a bench to watch the play of light on the water, or a short walk towards the shoreline to see the bridges framed between embankments and sea. Anglers and sailors at nearby harbours add a gentle sense of everyday life, while the low horizon and open sky emphasise how exposed yet calmly situated the fort is. Access to the outdoor grounds is free throughout the year, and the site rewards visits in different seasons. In spring and summer, wildflowers soften the hard edges of the concrete, while autumn brings longer shadows over the ramparts. Even on a grey winter day, the combination of military geometry, wide water views and the knowledge of the events that unfolded here creates a quietly compelling place to linger for an hour or two.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Hotel Falster
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Bellinge House- Bed & Breakfast. Wellness.
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Bjørnebrønden
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Vandtårnet I Nykøbing F
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Mindbjergs
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Genforeningssten i Næstelsø
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Diocese of Lolland–Falster
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Pomle Nakke Traktørsted
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Restaurant pizzeria Delfino
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Rose Stege Restaurant
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Camønoen
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Møns Museum, Empiregården
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Unmissable attractions to see
Vordingborg Castle
2.9 km
Evocative castle ruins, the golden Goose Tower and a cutting-edge museum reveal how Vordingborg once stood at the center of Denmark’s medieval power.
Danmarks Borgcenter
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Medieval Danish power brought to life through ruins, towers, and cutting-edge digital storytelling.
Museum Sydøstdanmark
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Regional cultural history museum headquartered at Vordingborg’s castle ruins, weaving together royal power, archaeology and everyday life across South and East Zealand.
Goose Tower
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Where medieval Danish kings ruled from a fortress that still commands the landscape.
Stensby Møllebæk (Malling's Gorge)
9.0 km
A small, hidden ravine where a lively mill stream, steep wooded slopes and traces of local history create a quiet, atmospheric pause in the South Zealand countryside.
Brombaergaarden B&B
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Charming Danish countryside retreat with exceptional hospitality and homemade breakfasts in a picturesque stone house.
Jættestuen Hulehøj
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Sweeping sands, gentle surf, and Baltic breezes await at Rødvig Beach—South Zealand’s tranquil harbor escape and a gateway to Stevns Klint’s dramatic cliffs.
Crocodile Zoo, Falster
13.8 km
Danmarks eneste rene krokodille-zoo, hvor du i tropisk varme kommer helt tæt på verdens krokodiller, kæmpeslanger og andre eksotiske dyr på landlige Falster.
Falster
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Stubbekøbing Camping & Cottages
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Danmarks Traktormuseum
14.3 km
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Oremandsgaard Gods & Destilleri
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Kalvehave Labyrintpark
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Vennerslund
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Smykkemuseum.dk
19.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Motel Højmølle Kro
14.4 km
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Fiskebrættet
14.8 km
Harbour-side fish shack and seafood counter in a little red hut on Stubbekøbing Harbour, serving fresh local catch with relaxed outdoor seating by the water.
Cocomarie, Bistro & Café
16.5 km
Historic farmhouse bistro serving locally sourced cuisine and craft coffee in Guldborg.
Gæsteriet
17.3 km
Intimate Danish brasserie in the village of Mern, serving homely seasonal cooking and drinks in a relaxed South Zealand countryside setting.
Cafe Mocca
18.3 km
Relaxed harborfront café-restaurant on Præstø Fjord, serving hearty classics, brunch and drinks with wide fjord views and an easygoing small-town atmosphere.
Restaurant Sommers
18.4 km
Relaxed harbourfront restaurant in Præstø serving generous Danish comfort dishes and seafood, with bright Nordic interiors and a terrace overlooking the marina.
Frederiksminde hotel og restaurant
18.6 km
Romantic fjordside pavilion in Præstø where classic Danish charm meets New Nordic fine dining, intimate gardens and slow, atmospheric escapes from everyday life.
Damme Kro
19.2 km
Authentic Danish comfort food in a historic countryside inn on the island of Møn.
Muldiverset
20.0 km
Organic farmhouse restaurant and regenerative garden by the sea, where slow-paced Nordic cooking, wild greenery and a curated eco shop reconnect you with nature.
Færgemandens Hus.
20.8 km
A former ferryman’s house turned cosy waterfront grill-restaurant on Møn, serving hearty Danish comfort food in snug rooms and by the bay.
Restaurant GastrÖ
20.8 km
Nordic fine dining on a quiet island, where seasonal ingredients and technical precision create unforgettable meals.
Noorbohandelen
20.9 km
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Restaurant Lolles Gaard ApS
21.0 km
Traditional Danish cuisine in an idyllic island garden where heritage and hospitality flourish.
Fjordkroen
22.3 km
Cosy fjordside country inn on South Zealand, blending classic Danish kro charm, water‑view rooms and traditional cooking in a peaceful rural setting.
Fanefjord Skovpavillon
23.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fiskeri & Fritid Stubbekøbing
14.8 km
Harborfront fishing and outdoor shop in Stubbekøbing, equipping locals and visitors alike for Baltic Sea angling, coastal weather and life by the water.
"Ejendommens" lille vejbod
18.6 km
A tiny countryside honesty stall on Hannenovvej where homemade preserves and seasonal produce offer a delicious, everyday taste of rural Falster.
Rosengaarden antik
19.9 km
Rural Danish antique treasure trove on Møn, where barns and sheds brim with vintage furniture, glass, chinaware and curios along the road to Stege.
Møn Bolcher, Møn Dragée & Harms Chocolat
20.0 km
Danish dragées and artisanal chocolates crafted at the source in Nykøbing Falster.
Vibækgård
20.3 km
Rural farm shop on Møn blending fresh local produce, animal feed and thoughtful gifts in a laid-back courtyard setting between fields and Stege Bay.
Nyord Ø Handel
20.9 km
Tiny island shop with a big heart: local groceries, crafts, coffee and ice cream at the friendly center of everyday life on tranquil Nyord.
Lammehave Økologi v/Jacob Isling Jørgensen
20.9 km
Organic farm and 24/7 self-service shop on eastern Falster, where diverse crops, home-milled grains and local meat meet a quiet, trust-based countryside atmosphere.
Coma Horreby v/Henrik Jensen
21.6 km
Local discount supermarket on Nykøbingvej, keeping Horreby and passing Falster travelers stocked up with everyday essentials at budget-friendly prices.
Butik Patina
21.9 km
Characterful antiques and vintage Scandinavian finds in a homely, timeworn setting on the quiet outskirts of Nykøbing Falster.
Nannas Blomster & Kreationer
22.2 km
Homely florist in a historic villa on Tingstedvej, crafting seasonal bouquets, plants and personalised floral designs for everyday gifts and life’s special occasions.
Furnish
22.4 km
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Tjørnemosegaard Julebutik & Møn honning
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Meny
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Frisenlund Living
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Afthonia Store
24.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rådhus Pub'en
3.2 km
Authentic Danish pub on the historic town square, where locals and travelers gather for genuine hospitality.
Nr. Alslev Bodega ApS
10.0 km
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Biblioteket
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Sussis Bodega ApS
19.8 km
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Kaspers landsted
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Slap A'
23.7 km
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Cafe Nutiden V/ Brian Ipsen
23.8 km
A classic Danish bodega-style bar in central Nykøbing Falster, serving simple drinks and plenty of local atmosphere from midday through the late evening.
FUND BAR
23.9 km
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Vinoteque Marittima
24.2 km
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Fortuna
24.2 km
Cosy, no-frills Danish bodega in central Nykøbing Falster, where cold beer, warm conversation and unhurried evenings capture the spirit of local nightlife.
Cafe Slotsgården V/Brian Fog Ipsen
24.2 km
Experience Danish hospitality at Cafe Slotsgården, Nykøbing Falster's cozy beer hall with a rustic charm and diverse beer selection.
Slottet Værtshus
24.2 km
Unpretentious Danish bodega on Slotsgade where locals, regulars and curious visitors share cold beers, billiards games and late‑night jukebox tunes.
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24.3 km
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Jernbanecafeen Nykoebing Falster - Denmark
24.4 km
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Den Sorte Engel
24.5 km
Moody brick walls, close-up live music and unpretentious Danish pub vibes make Den Sorte Engel the beating heart of Nykøbing Falster’s nightlife.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Loke MC - Helheim
11.4 km
Rural Danish biker clubhouse with Norse-mythology flair, offering intimate late-night gatherings, loud rock playlists and a no-frills bar far from mainstream nightlife.
Første sted
24.4 km
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N.Y.K. Event
24.6 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Nykøbing Falster, mixing strong drinks, loud beats and a sociable dance floor that runs into the early morning.
Billy Booze
24.6 km
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Avenue Næstved
28.1 km
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Crazy Daisy Næstved
28.2 km
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Dr. Emil Laboratory, Marielyst
32.9 km
Beachfront nightclub where summer energy meets live music and dancing until dawn.
Pier To Heaven
37.5 km
Experience maritime charm and exquisite drinks at Pier To Heaven in Klintholm Havn.
Gedser Lighthouse
47.3 km
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Gedser Odde
47.8 km
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CLUB ZANZI
50.9 km
High‑energy waterfront nightclub bringing big‑city beats, flashing lights and late‑night dancing to the heart of coastal Nakskov.
Bloom Nightclub
55.4 km
Late-night harborfront beats and a compact dance floor bring big-night energy to small-city Køge every Friday and Saturday.
The Flame
55.4 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub by Køge’s harbor, serving up youthful beats, live acts and weekend dance-floor vibes in an intimate, no-frills setting.
LUSIO
55.4 km
Compact harbor-side nightclub in Køge with late Friday hours, a tight dance floor, and an intimate, no‑frills setting for Danish weekend nights out.
Swingergaarden
55.7 km
Discreet countryside swingers club near Slagelse, offering themed adult nights, intimate play spaces and a rules-based, consent-focused environment for open-minded guests.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly