Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje: A Glimpse into Fanø’s Waterfowl-Hunting Heritage
Step into Fanø’s bygone era of waterfowl trapping at Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, an atmospheric woodland museum blending local heritage and nature on Denmark’s west coast.
Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje immerses visitors in the traditional world of Danish eider duck decoy trapping on Fanø. This atmospheric, open-air museum preserves rare engineering and natural woodland, revealing how islanders once ingeniously lured wildfowl—a tradition unique to coastal Wadden Sea communities. Interpretive walks and exhibits bring the marshland history and conservation legacy to life.
A brief summary to Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje
- Landevejen 105, Fanø, 6720, DK
- Visit website
- 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
- Wear sturdy shoes—the approach includes soft woodland trails, especially after rain.
- Visit during spring or fall migration for extraordinary birdwatching opportunities around the reserve.
- Bring binoculars; the site is adjacent to meadows frequented by migratory geese and waders.
- The site has basic facilities only (no café or shop); bring water and snacks if you plan to linger.
Getting There
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Walking
From the historic center of Sønderho, it’s a scenic 15–25 minute walk southward along forest-edged trails. You’ll pass grassy meadows often grazed by sheep and bordered by whispering pines, with clear signs indicating entrance to the duck decoy site. Terrain is generally flat, but can be soft and muddy following rainfall. Entry is typically free, though donations are welcome.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a popular and speedy way to access Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje from anywhere in Sønderho or the main road toward the ferry. A designated bike path runs through woodland and open field, passing wind-tilted trees and glimpses of coastal dunes. Bike parking is available at the edge of the reserve, with no fee required.
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Taxi
Taxis or local minivans from Nordby or the main ferry dock reach Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje in about 15 minutes, usually costing 140–180 DKK one way. Ask to be dropped near the Sønderho decoy entrance. Vehicle access is along rural lanes and may be restricted in peak summer or during rare special events.
Discover more about Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sønderho Church
4.0 km
A historic 18th-century Lutheran church in Sønderho, renowned for its maritime heritage, delicate model ships, striking altar, and tranquil island atmosphere.
Fanø Free Folk Festival
4.1 km
Experience the fusion of traditional and experimental folk music in the historic village of Sønderho on Fanø Island.
Hannes Hus
4.2 km
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.
Æ Kåver
4.3 km
Historic coastal monument on Fanø, celebrating the island’s maritime past and offering panoramic island views—an unmissable stop for heritage and scenery lovers.
Rindby Strand
6.0 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.
Fano Bed and Boats
7.5 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
7.6 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 Lokalhistorisk Forening
7.6 km
Explore Fanø's maritime heritage in an authentic 17th-century setting.
Fanø Tourist Office
7.7 km
Centrally located on Fanø, the Tourist Office is the ideal starting point for discovering authentic island charm, local culture, and practical travel advice.
Danland Fanø
7.8 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
7.8 km
Vast, iconic North Sea beach spanning Fanø’s coastline, famed for its wild dunes, kite festivals, wide sands, and unique Danish maritime character.
FanøFærgen, Esbjerg
8.5 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
8.8 km
A converted harbor tower blending industrial heritage with contemporary art, panoramic views, and creative events on Copenhagen’s iconic Knippels Bridge.
Esbjerg Water Tower
8.9 km
Historic bridge control tower reborn as Copenhagen’s most intimate cultural venue—offering unique exhibitions, harbor panoramas, café delights, and local arts.
Landgangen
8.9 km
Step inside a piece of Copenhagen’s iconic bridge architecture, now transformed into a creative hub for art, music, café culture, and panoramic city views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Albue Fuglekøje
1.2 km
Discover the serene grandeur of Schackenborg Castle—where Danish nobility, elegant baroque architecture, and lush gardens make for a memorable southern Jutland highlight.
Skovlegeplads
1.7 km
Experience Fanø’s living duck decoy of Sønderho—an immersive blend of maritime nature, authentic Danish history, and peaceful woodland trails bordering the Wadden Sea.
Pælebjerg - Det højeste punkt på Fanø
2.6 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.
Sønderho Mølle
3.4 km
Historic open-air duck decoy in Fanø’s dunes, blending unique birdlife heritage with island traditions and immersive outdoor exhibits for curious visitors.
Mosedalsbjerg
4.0 km
A breathtaking linden-lined street in Møgeltønder, Slotsgaden charms visitors with its historic thatched cottages and scenic path to Schackenborg Castle.
Fanø Kunstmuseum
4.2 km
Wander beneath linden trees and past centuries-old cottages along Møgeltønder’s Slotsgaden, Denmark’s most enchanting heritage street leading to Schackenborg Castle.
Seal Bank Walk Meeting Point
4.3 km
Gateway to the wild seal colonies of Fanø, offering unforgettable tidal walks and up-close wildlife encounters amid the coastal splendor of Denmark’s Wadden Sea.
Stormflodssøjlen, Sønderho
4.3 km
Experience North Sea wildlife at the Seal Bank Walk Meeting Point on Fanø, where tidal flats, seals, and expansive vistas shape an unforgettable Wadden Sea visit.
Detrigonometriskestation
4.4 km
Experience the storybook beauty of Slotsgaden, Møgeltønder—Denmark’s most picturesque street, connecting charming thatched cottages with the grandeur of Schackenborg Castle.
Rindby beach
6.1 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 Vesterland Festival
6.5 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.
Skovhaven Torp Plantage
6.8 km
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.
Gedenkstein
6.9 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 Museum
7.4 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.
Fanø Skibsfarts- & Dragtsamling
7.5 km
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.
Essential places to dine
Tre Søstre
4.1 km
Atmospheric café in Nordby village serving Danish classics, home-baked cakes, and island hospitality—a cherished Fanø gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Restaurant/Café Fajancen
4.3 km
Historic brasserie in Nordby offering classic Danish cuisine, local seafood, and island ambiance, perfect for savoring fresh flavors and island hospitality on Fanø.
Sønderho Kro
4.3 km
Experience Danish heritage and culinary excellence at Sønderho Kro, a historic inn with gourmet dining set in the atmospheric heart of Fanø’s most charming village.
Fanø Angus & Merino
5.2 km
Experience the best of local meats at Fanø Angus & Merino - where tradition meets quality in every bite.
LIGHTHOUSE BURGERS
6.0 km
Savor gourmet burgers made from local ingredients at Lighthouse Burgers on the beautiful island of Fanø.
Axel's Kitchen
6.1 km
Axel's Kitchen on Fanø blends home-cooked Danish cuisine, friendly hospitality, and local ingredients in a relaxed, beach-close setting perfect for families and travelers.
Stoppestedet I/S
6.1 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
6.9 km
A coastal favorite on Fanø Island, Restaurant Dino pairs creative, Nordic-inspired cuisine with panoramic North Sea views and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Hotel Fanø Bad
7.0 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.
Fanø Bryghus
7.0 km
Fanø Bryghus is the island’s thriving craft brewery, known for creative beers, community spirit, and authentic experiences inspired by Denmark’s windswept west coast.
Rudbecks Fanø
7.2 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
7.3 km
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
7.3 km
Restaurant Aroma on Fanø combines organic craft beers brewed in-house with creative Danish cuisine, set amidst the island's charming, laidback coastal atmosphere.
Haven Fanø
7.3 km
Chic Nordic inn on Fanø island offering serene stays, personalized hospitality, and an authentic coastal retreat amid Denmark’s natural beauty.
Fanø Pizza
7.3 km
Experience authentic pizza delights at Fanø Pizza - where local flavors meet Italian tradition on the enchanting island of Fanø.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sønderho Gårdbutik
3.1 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.
Arbuckle Design
3.9 km
Discover unique fashion accessories that capture the essence of Danish design at Arbuckle Design in Fanø.
Kunstladen
5.2 km
Kunstladen is Fanø’s vibrant hub for Danish crafts, unique gifts, and local design—an inviting island shop perfect for souvenirs, style, and artistic inspiration.
Christel Seyfarth Butik
7.3 km
Discover vibrant Nordic knitwear, hand-dyed yarn, and island artistry in Christel Seyfarth Butik—Fanø’s legendary knit shop blending tradition and contemporary design.
Fanø Lys
7.8 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.
BROEN Shopping
8.9 km
Discover BROEN Shopping, Esbjerg’s dynamic city-center mall—offering Danish and international brands, eateries, local events, and a lively glimpse of urban Danish life.
Victoria N Friends
10.6 km
Discover unique Danish fashion at Victoria N Friends, Esbjerg's premier boutique for contemporary apparel and accessories.
Det Gamle Apothek
20.6 km
Experience the nostalgia of Ribe’s 17th-century apothecary, now a magical boutique packed with traditional Danish sweets, handmade crafts, and festive Nordic décor.
Den Lille Ravbutik
20.7 km
Discover the magic of Danish amber at Den Lille Ravbutik, Ribe’s boutique jewelry destination for handcrafted keepsakes and authentic Baltic treasures.
Metropolis Drachen
26.6 km
Discover Rømø’s legendary kite shop, Metropolis Drachen, where wind, colour, and creativity unite on Denmark’s breezy North Sea coast.
Rømø Lys
26.7 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.
By Vicky
26.7 km
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.
Rømø Bolsjeri og Ishus
26.7 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.
Butik Rømø
26.7 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.
Lakolk Butikscenter
26.7 km
Experience lively coastal shopping, local flavors, and community events at Lakolk Butikscenter, the vibrant heart of Rømø by the Wadden Sea National Park.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Nanas Stue
4.2 km
Charming, historic café in the heart of Fanø, serving regional Danish dishes, homemade cakes, and signature hygge in a classic thatched-roof setting.
Kabyssen
6.0 km
Kabyssen is Fanø’s cherished gathering spot, blending maritime nostalgia, friendly locals, and affordable drinks in a cozy setting at the heart of Nordby.
VadeMad
7.0 km
VadeMad is a lively Nordby eatery blending Fanø’s maritime heritage with seasonal Nordic cuisine beside the island’s iconic brewery.
Hjørnekroen
7.7 km
Quintessential Danish inn experience in the heart of Nordby on Fanø, offering warm hospitality, hearty local fare, and a rich sense of island tradition.
Dokken City Beach
8.6 km
Experience Esbjerg's harbor transformed into a vibrant beach retreat with cocktails, games, and cultural events.
SoHo - Bar & Cocktails
9.0 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.
Bjælkehytten - En Vestjysk BierBar
9.1 km
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.
King George
9.1 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.
Kasket Karl
9.1 km
Experience Esbjerg's vibrant nightlife at Kasket Karl, where local charm meets contemporary flair in a lively bar setting.
Vinbaren
9.2 km
Crafted for wine enthusiasts, Vinbaren in Esbjerg offers curated global wines, small plates, and a welcoming local spirit within a stylish Scandinavian setting.
Klubben 1811
20.6 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
20.7 km
Experience the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Stenbohus, Ribe's beloved tavern offering live music and local brews.
Strygejernet
20.7 km
Experience the authentic pulse of Ribe at Strygejernet, a cherished local bar in Denmark’s oldest town, offering lively nights, live music, and friendly faces.
Cafeteria Lakolk
26.7 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
27.6 km
Experience handcrafted Danish spirits at Marskdestilleriet in Rømø, where tradition meets innovation in distillation.