Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje: A Glimpse into Denmark’s Waterfowl Heritage
Step into a living fragment of Danish heritage at Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, Fanø’s fascinating 19th-century duck decoy site, preserved amid tranquil coastal woodland.
Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje is a historic duck decoy site nestled amidst the windswept dunes near Sønderho on Fanø island. Established in 1866, it offers visitors a vivid look into traditional waterfowl trapping methods once vital to Danish coastal communities. Surrounded by tranquil forest and lagoon, the site now serves as a unique museum, preserving both the mechanical intrigue of the decoy systems and the island’s cultural relationship with migratory birds.
A brief summary to Rindby beach
- Fanø, 6720, DK
- +4576660660
- Visit website
Local tips
- Best visited in spring or autumn for bird migrations when the site is livelier with wildfowl activity.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as access paths can be sandy or muddy depending on the weather.
- Interpretive signs are in Danish, but non-speakers will still enjoy the evocative setting and exhibits.
- Bring binoculars if you're a birdwatcher—rare species often stop here during migratory seasons.
- The site is generally accessible, but wheelchair users may encounter uneven ground near the lagoon.
Getting There
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Walking
From central Fanø, reaching Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje involves a peaceful walk southward from Sønderho village into open coastal woodland. The journey passes through quiet dunes and pine groves, taking about 20–30 minutes on foot. The site is easily found thanks to local signage and the distinct outline of the woodland lagoon up ahead. There is no admission charge for the walk or public access.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a popular way to access Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje from the main village areas, with well-marked seaside cycle paths leading toward the southern woodlands. The ride from Sønderho takes roughly 10–15 minutes and passes scenic meadows dotted with sheep. Bicycle parking is available at no cost just outside the museum gate.
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Driving
While possible by car, vehicle access is restricted near the lagoon, with the nearest parking areas located on the edge of Sønderho. It’s a short walk (10–20 minutes) through coastal forest from there. Parking is free, though spaces are limited, especially during weekends or migration season.
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Taxi
Taxis from Nordby or other parts of Fanø can drop visitors at Sønderho village for a convenient approach. Fares across the island generally range from 130–180 DKK depending on origin. From the drop-off, the site is reached by walking or bicycle as motor vehicles are not permitted inside the preserve.
Discover more about Rindby beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rindby Strand
0.2 km
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.
The Beach on Fanø
1.9 km
Vast, iconic North Sea beach spanning Fanø’s coastline, famed for its wild dunes, kite festivals, wide sands, and unique Danish maritime character.
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.
Bunkers on Fanø
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Fanø Lokalhistorisk Forening
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Explore Fanø's maritime heritage in an authentic 17th-century setting.
Fano Bed and Boats
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Charming seaside bed & breakfast and boat rental in Nordby, Fanø—offering cozy rooms and authentic maritime experiences on Denmark’s storied North Sea island.
Fanø Krogaard
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Experience the timeless charm of Fanø Krogaard, a historic inn blending Nordic cuisine, island tradition, and warm hospitality in the heart of Nordby harbour.
Fanø Tourist Office
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FanøFærgen, Esbjerg
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Essential ferry link connecting Esbjerg and Fanø, ushering travelers from Denmark’s mainland to the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes of the Wadden Sea.
Gangbroen over Toldbodvej, Esbjerg Havn
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Landgangen
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Esbjerg Water Tower
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Dronning Louise
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Denmark
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Namaste Esbjerg
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Unmissable attractions to see
Skovhaven Torp Plantage
1.5 km
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Gedenkstein
1.5 km
Experience Fanø's historic waterfowl trapping site amidst serene heathland, offering deep insights into Danish hunting heritage and the ecology of the Wadden Sea.
Fanoe Bad Beach
1.8 km
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Fanø Vesterland Festival
1.8 km
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Mindesten for Det Økumeniske Kirkemøde 1934
1.8 km
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Strandgut - Strandfischerei Monument
3.3 km
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Fanø Museum
3.5 km
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Fanø Skibsfarts- & Dragtsamling
3.7 km
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Kikkebjerget
3.8 km
Slotsgaden in Møgeltønder: A fairytale street of thatched cottages, noble vistas, and rural calm leading to the historic Schackenborg Castle in southern Denmark.
Pælebjerg - Det højeste punkt på Fanø
4.1 km
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Albue Fuglekøje
5.0 km
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Nördlich Odden (Let flakbatteri)
5.1 km
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Skovlegeplads
5.2 km
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Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje
6.1 km
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Fish Auction for tourists
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Essential places to dine
Stoppestedet I/S
0.3 km
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LIGHTHOUSE BURGERS
0.6 km
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Axel's Kitchen
1.3 km
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Fanø Angus & Merino
1.6 km
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Kellers Badehotel
1.8 km
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Pelargoniehuset
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Discover Pelargoniehuset: A unique dining experience surrounded by beautiful gardens and local flavors on Fanø Island.
Hotel Fanø Bad
2.5 km
Classic seaside retreat on Fanø's wild west coast, offering warm Nordic hospitality, dune views, and direct access to Denmark’s legendary island beaches.
Restaurant Dino
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Fanø Bryghus
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Rudbecks Fanø
3.2 km
Experience Fanø’s authentic flavors and warm hospitality at Rudbecks—a beloved café, deli, and wine bar nestled in the heart of the island's vibrant main village.
Tacobørsen
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Restaurant Aroma - Fanø øko Øl
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Fanø Pizza
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Haven Fanø
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Pandekagehuset Fanø
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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1.5 km
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Fanø Lys
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Arbuckle Design
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Christel Seyfarth Butik
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BROEN Shopping
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Sønderho Gårdbutik
8.7 km
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Victoria N Friends
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WestLys
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Det Gamle Apothek
26.4 km
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Den Lille Ravbutik
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Metropolis Drachen
31.2 km
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Ib's Gavecenter v/Mona Pedersen Ib
31.2 km
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Rømø Lys
31.2 km
Creative candle making and Danish souvenirs in a welcoming Lakolk store, blending hands-on tradition and local charm on the scenic island of Rømø.
Butik Rømø
31.2 km
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
31.2 km
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
0.8 km
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VadeMad
2.6 km
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Hjørnekroen
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Dokken City Beach
6.5 km
Experience Esbjerg's harbor transformed into a vibrant beach retreat with cocktails, games, and cultural events.
SoHo - Bar & Cocktails
7.2 km
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.
Kasket Karl
7.3 km
Experience Esbjerg's vibrant nightlife at Kasket Karl, where local charm meets contemporary flair in a lively bar setting.
King George
7.3 km
Experience Esbjerg’s welcoming beer hall tradition at King George—an atmospheric bodega where locals and travelers mingle over affordable drinks and lively conversation.
Bjælkehytten - En Vestjysk BierBar
7.3 km
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Vinbaren
7.3 km
Crafted for wine enthusiasts, Vinbaren in Esbjerg offers curated global wines, small plates, and a welcoming local spirit within a stylish Scandinavian setting.
Cafe Nanas Stue
9.9 km
Charming, historic café in the heart of Fanø, serving regional Danish dishes, homemade cakes, and signature hygge in a classic thatched-roof setting.
Klubben 1811
26.4 km
Experience true Danish hospitality and community spirit at Klubben 1811, Ribe’s lively and historic local bar in the heart of Denmark’s oldest town.
Stenbohus
26.5 km
Experience the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Stenbohus, Ribe's beloved tavern offering live music and local brews.
Strygejernet
26.5 km
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Cafeteria Lakolk
31.2 km
Cafeteria Lakolk offers hearty Danish classics and seaside hospitality at the gateway to Rømø’s windswept Lakolk Beach, blending nostalgia with local flavor.
Marskdestilleriet
32.5 km
Experience handcrafted Danish spirits at Marskdestilleriet in Rømø, where tradition meets innovation in distillation.
