Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje: Fanø's Historic Duck Decoy
Discover Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, a rare historic duck decoy nestled in Fanø’s serene woods, revealing Denmark’s unique wildlife traditions and rural heritage.
Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje on Fanø is a rare and atmospheric heritage site once used to catch wild ducks, set in serene coastal woodlands. Its traditional thatched decoy pond and informative displays offer a fascinating glimpse into Denmark’s rural past and local wildlife traditions.
A brief summary to Pælebjerg - Det højeste punkt på Fanø
- Fanø, 6720, DK
Local tips
- Visit in spring or autumn to witness impressive bird migrations above the site.
- Bring insect repellent in summer, as the woodland location can attract mosquitoes.
- Interpretive signs are available in multiple languages, but younger children may enjoy the hands-on elements more.
- Wear sturdy footwear; paths can be sandy or muddy depending on the weather.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of Fanø’s main village Sønderho, stroll towards the island’s southern dunes, following signs toward the old duck decoy. The woodland clearing is set at the edge of the coastal forest, around 15–25 minutes on foot from the village core. Bicycle access is easy and common, with bike parking available near the entrance. The route is scenic but can be sandy; sturdy shoes are recommended.
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Bicycle
Cycling from Sønderho’s central square to the Fuglekøje is a relaxed 7–12 minute ride along local paths weaving through peaceful nature reserves and open meadows. Bicycle rental is available in town for about 80–110 DKK per day. The cycle ends at a small parking area just before the woodland entrance.
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Taxi
A taxi from Nordby ferry terminal or Sønderho’s center delivers visitors to the entrance in approximately 10–15 minutes. Fares typically range from 120–180 DKK one-way depending on season and time of day.
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Driving
For those arriving by car, head toward the wooded area near Sønderho. Parking is limited to a small gravel lot beside the entrance, and is generally free, but spaces fill quickly in peak summer periods. Campervans and large vehicles may need to park further away as the access lane is narrow.
Discover more about Pælebjerg - Det højeste punkt på Fanø
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rindby Strand
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Wild, sandy expanse on Fanø’s west coast renowned for kite flying, gentle tides, unique drive-on access, and the elemental beauty of North Sea sunsets.
Sønderho Church
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Fanø Free Folk Festival
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Æ Kåver
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Hannes Hus
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Experience authentic 19th-century island life at Hannes Hus, a perfectly preserved seafarer’s home and local heritage museum in the heart of Sønderho, Fanø.
The Beach on Fanø
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Danland Fanø
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Family-friendly seaside holiday resort nestled among Fanø's dunes, offering direct access to wide beaches, indoor pools, wellness options, and the spirit of Danish island living.
Fano Bed and Boats
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Fanø Lokalhistorisk Forening
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Fanø Krogaard
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Fanø Tourist Office
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Bunkers on Fanø
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Landgangen
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Unmissable attractions to see
Skovlegeplads
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Albue Fuglekøje
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Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje
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Rindby beach
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Mosedalsbjerg
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Seal Bank Walk Meeting Point
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Sønderho Mølle
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Historic open-air duck decoy in Fanø’s dunes, blending unique birdlife heritage with island traditions and immersive outdoor exhibits for curious visitors.
Fanø Vesterland Festival
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Skovhaven Torp Plantage
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Gedenkstein
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Fanø Kunstmuseum
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Wander beneath linden trees and past centuries-old cottages along Møgeltønder’s Slotsgaden, Denmark’s most enchanting heritage street leading to Schackenborg Castle.
Detrigonometriskestation
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Experience the storybook beauty of Slotsgaden, Møgeltønder—Denmark’s most picturesque street, connecting charming thatched cottages with the grandeur of Schackenborg Castle.
Mindesten for Det Økumeniske Kirkemøde 1934
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Set off across wild tidal flats from Fanø’s tranquil south end to witness unforgettable seal colonies and the windswept beauty of the Wadden Sea coastline.
Fanoe Bad Beach
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Stormflodssøjlen, Sønderho
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Essential places to dine
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Stoppestedet I/S
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LIGHTHOUSE BURGERS
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Axel's Kitchen
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Tre Søstre
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Hotel Fanø Bad
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Restaurant Dino
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Fanø Bryghus
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Restaurant/Café Fajancen
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Kellers Badehotel
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Pelargoniehuset
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Sønderho Kro
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Rudbecks Fanø
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Tacobørsen
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Restaurant Aroma - Fanø øko Øl
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Kunstladen
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Christel Seyfarth Butik
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BROEN Shopping
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Victoria N Friends
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Rømø Lys
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By Vicky
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Discover Danish island style and boutique shopping at By Vicky, an inviting clothing store in Rømø's lively Lakolk Butikscenter near the legendary west coast beaches.
Butik Rømø
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Charming toy, airsoft, and kite shop in Rømø’s Lakolk Butikscenter, popular for hands-on displays, family fun, and gear inspired by the island’s beaches and breezes.
Rømø Bolsjeri og Ishus
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Watch traditional Danish candies being crafted by hand and enjoy creamy ice cream at Rømø Bolsjeri og Ishus in Lakolk, steps from the island's wildly popular beach.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kabyssen
4.3 km
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VadeMad
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Cafe Nanas Stue
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Hjørnekroen
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Dokken City Beach
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Stylish cocktails, welcoming atmosphere, and a touch of urban buzz await in Esbjerg’s lively center at SoHo Bar & Cocktails, a top choice for classic and creative drinks.
King George
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Bjælkehytten - En Vestjysk BierBar
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Bjælkehytten in Esbjerg offers classic West Jutland hospitality, a rustic log cabin atmosphere, and a diverse selection of beers in the city’s vibrant nightlife district.
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Vinbaren
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Klubben 1811
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Stenbohus
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Strygejernet
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Cafeteria Lakolk
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Marskdestilleriet
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