Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje: Echoes of Fanø's Hunting Heritage
Step into Fanø’s rare duck decoy—a historic open-air museum revealing Denmark’s sustainable bird catching past amid tranquil forests and dunes near Sønderho.
Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje is a remarkable open-air museum and historical site set amidst the tranquil dunes and woodlands of southern Fanø. Originally built in 1866 as a duck decoy for live hunting, this rare attraction lets visitors explore the unique legacy of bird catching in Denmark. With recreated traps, a tranquil pond system, and informational displays, it vividly brings to life a piece of island heritage that's seldom seen elsewhere.
A brief summary to Skovhaven Torp Plantage
- Fanø, 6720, DK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes—some paths are sandy or uneven across the dunes and forest areas.
- Visit in spring or early autumn for the best birdwatching opportunities by the pond.
- Bring a picnic; there are restful spots for a quiet meal surrounded by nature.
- Interpretive signs are in Danish and often English, but bringing a translation app can add depth.
- Parking may be limited in high season—consider cycling or walking from Sønderho for a scenic approach.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of Sønderho, a leisurely walk through quiet residential lanes gives way to sandy trails bordered by pines and windswept heath. The Fuglekøje is set just outside the village, amid tranquil woodlands and grassy clearings. Walking from the center of Sønderho generally takes about 20–30 minutes at a relaxed pace. No entry charge is typical, but donations are welcomed at the site. Be prepared for sandy or uneven ground and carry water in summer.
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Bicycle
Cycling is one of the most pleasant ways to reach the Fuglekøje from central Fanø destinations. Quiet rural roads and trails connect the village with the decoy—expect a journey of around 10–15 minutes from Sønderho’s main square. Bicycle parking is available at the entrance; use a sturdy lock during busy months. Bringing your own bike is free, or rentals on Fanø usually cost from 80–120 DKK per day.
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Car
For visitors driving from the main settlements on Fanø, follow signs to Sønderho, then look for marked parking areas on the village outskirts bordering the woodland. The Fuglekøje lies a short walk from parking, typically less than 10 minutes on foot. Parking is usually free, though spaces fill quickly peak season. Note that vehicles cannot access the final forest path.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Nordby or other Fanø hubs for a swift and comfortable approach. A taxi ride from central Fanø towns to Sønderho costs approximately 120–150 DKK one way and takes about 15–20 minutes, with the final leg requiring a brief walk through the woods.
Discover more about Skovhaven Torp Plantage
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Danland Fanø
1.1 km
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.
The Beach on Fanø
1.1 km
Vast, iconic North Sea beach spanning Fanø’s coastline, famed for its wild dunes, kite festivals, wide sands, and unique Danish maritime character.
Rindby Strand
1.7 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.
Bunkers on Fanø
2.2 km
Explore Fanø’s atmospheric WWII bunkers—historic fortifications nestled in windswept dunes, offering a unique blend of war history and stunning North Sea scenery.
Fanø Lokalhistorisk Forening
2.2 km
Explore Fanø's maritime heritage in an authentic 17th-century setting.
Fano Bed and Boats
2.2 km
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
2.5 km
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
2.6 km
Centrally located on Fanø, the Tourist Office is the ideal starting point for discovering authentic island charm, local culture, and practical travel advice.
FanøFærgen, Esbjerg
5.1 km
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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A converted harbor tower blending industrial heritage with contemporary art, panoramic views, and creative events on Copenhagen’s iconic Knippels Bridge.
Landgangen
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Esbjerg Water Tower
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Historic bridge control tower reborn as Copenhagen’s most intimate cultural venue—offering unique exhibitions, harbor panoramas, café delights, and local arts.
Dronning Louise
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Urban beachfront serenity meets Danish royal heritage at Marselisborg Strand, Aarhus’ favorite local escape for swimming, sunbathing, and seaside strolls year-round.
Denmark
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Marselisborg Strand is Aarhus’s urban beach escape, offering sandy shores, a classic pier, family-friendly facilities, and beautiful views right at the city’s edge.
Namaste Esbjerg
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Marselisborg Strand is Aarhus’ vibrant urban beach, blending sandy coastline, tranquil bay views, and easy access to city highlights and lush forest parks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gedenkstein
0.1 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.
Fanø Vesterland Festival
0.6 km
Step into the historic world of duck decoy trapping at Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, where Fanø’s coastal landscape and folk ingenuity come vividly to life.
Mindesten for Det Økumeniske Kirkemøde 1934
1.0 km
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
1.4 km
Step into Fanø’s past at Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje—a rare Danish duck decoy, where ingenious waterfowl trapping meets serene island tradition and nature.
Rindby beach
1.5 km
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.
Fanø Museum
2.1 km
Immerse yourself in Denmark’s most beautiful street, where thatched cottages and blooming gardens lead to the historic gates of Schackenborg Castle in peaceful Møgeltønder.
Kikkebjerget
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Slotsgaden in Møgeltønder: A fairytale street of thatched cottages, noble vistas, and rural calm leading to the historic Schackenborg Castle in southern Denmark.
Fanø Skibsfarts- & Dragtsamling
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Stroll along Denmark’s most charming village street, flanked by grand thatched homes and linden trees, on the path to enchanting Schackenborg Castle in Møgeltønder.
Strandgut - Strandfischerei Monument
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Explore Denmark's most picturesque village street, Slotsgaden in Møgeltønder, featuring historic 18th-century houses, cobblestone paths, and Schackenborg Castle.
Nördlich Odden (Let flakbatteri)
3.7 km
Step into Fanø’s wildfowling history at Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, an atmospheric 19th-century duck decoy nestled in tranquil woodlands by the North Sea.
Pælebjerg - Det højeste punkt på Fanø
5.2 km
Discover Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, a rare historic duck decoy nestled in Fanø’s serene woods, revealing Denmark’s unique wildlife traditions and rural heritage.
Esbjerg Havn
5.3 km
Discover Esbjerg's 27-meter mosaic celebrating the Wadden Sea's biodiversity, crafted by artist Lotte Lambæk and local community members.
Fish Auction for tourists
5.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Esbjerg's 'Spectacle Lakes,' a haven for nature lovers and families alike.
Albue Fuglekøje
5.6 km
Discover the serene grandeur of Schackenborg Castle—where Danish nobility, elegant baroque architecture, and lush gardens make for a memorable southern Jutland highlight.
Esbjerg Art Museum
5.8 km
Discover Esbjerg Museum’s vivid exhibitions, from maritime heritage and wartime history to hands-on children’s displays, in the cultural heart of West Jutland.
Essential places to dine
Axel's Kitchen
0.8 km
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Kellers Badehotel
0.9 km
Historic beachfront hotel on Fanø combining coastal Danish charm, gourmet dining, and immersive island hospitality with sweeping North Sea views and a storied heritage.
Pelargoniehuset
1.0 km
Discover Pelargoniehuset: A unique dining experience surrounded by beautiful gardens and local flavors on Fanø Island.
LIGHTHOUSE BURGERS
1.0 km
Savor gourmet burgers made from local ingredients at Lighthouse Burgers on the beautiful island of Fanø.
Hotel Fanø Bad
1.1 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.
Stoppestedet I/S
1.2 km
Family-friendly fast food with a beachy vibe, Stoppestedet I/S serves classic burgers and comfort fare just steps from Fanø’s iconic dunes and coastline.
Restaurant Dino
1.2 km
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Fanø Bryghus
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Fanø Angus & Merino
1.7 km
Experience the best of local meats at Fanø Angus & Merino - where tradition meets quality in every bite.
Rudbecks Fanø
1.9 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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A vibrant, Mexican-inspired takeout restaurant bringing fresh, flavorful street food and friendly service to Fanø’s main town, perfect for quick bites or casual beach picnics.
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
Fanø Lys
1.1 km
Discover authentic Danish candle artistry at Fanø Lys, a warm and inviting candle workshop and boutique known for its handcrafted gifts and local delicacies.
Kunstladen
1.6 km
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Christel Seyfarth Butik
2.0 km
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Arbuckle Design
2.9 km
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BROEN Shopping
6.1 km
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Victoria N Friends
7.7 km
Discover unique Danish fashion at Victoria N Friends, Esbjerg's premier boutique for contemporary apparel and accessories.
Sønderho Gårdbutik
9.6 km
Discover authentic Fanø farmhouse flavors and island produce at Sønderho Gårdbutik—a rustic farm shop brimming with local treats, homemade goods, and rural Danish charm.
WestLys
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Det Gamle Apothek
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Den Lille Ravbutik
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Metropolis Drachen
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Rømø Lys
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Ib's Gavecenter v/Mona Pedersen Ib
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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
32.5 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
0.9 km
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VadeMad
1.3 km
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Hjørnekroen
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Dokken City Beach
5.2 km
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SoHo - Bar & Cocktails
6.0 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
6.0 km
Experience Esbjerg's vibrant nightlife at Kasket Karl, where local charm meets contemporary flair in a lively bar setting.
Vinbaren
6.1 km
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King George
6.1 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
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Cafe Nanas Stue
10.8 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
26.7 km
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Stenbohus
26.7 km
Experience the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Stenbohus, Ribe's beloved tavern offering live music and local brews.
Strygejernet
26.8 km
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Cafeteria Lakolk
32.5 km
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Marskdestilleriet
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