Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje: Fanø’s Historic Duck Decoy in the Dunes
Historic open-air duck decoy in Fanø’s dunes, blending unique birdlife heritage with island traditions and immersive outdoor exhibits for curious visitors.
Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje is a unique open-air museum nestled in the southwestern dunes of Fanø. Established in 1866, it is one of the last preserved traditional duck decoys in Denmark, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the island’s hunting heritage and ingenious bird-catching techniques.
A brief summary to Sønderho Mølle
- Vester Land 44, Fanø, 6720, DK
- Visit website
Local tips
- In summer, bring binoculars to observe a variety of wild birds that now frequent the pond and heath.
- Wear sturdy footwear as paths around the fuglekøje can be sandy or muddy, especially after rain.
- Combine your visit with a walk or picnic in the nearby dunes of Sønderho for a true Fanø nature experience.
- Most interpretive signage is in Danish, so a translation app or guidebook may be helpful for English speakers.
Getting There
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Walking
From the village center of Sønderho, the duck decoy is about a 15–25 minute stroll heading southwest through quiet dunes and patches of woodland. The route follows scenic paths commonly used by both walkers and cyclists, leading out toward Fanø’s expansive heath. The approach is peaceful—look for areas where the trees thin and the landscape opens into wetland. Entry is free, but the terrain may be rough in spots, especially after rain.
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Bicycle
Cycling from Sønderho’s main square offers an easy alternative; it’s a short ride of about 10–15 minutes along quiet island paths toward the southwestern dunes. Bikes can be locked at small racks near the entrance. There is no charge for visiting, but extra care is needed in sandy sections.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can park at a small designated lot near the edge of the Sønderho village outskirts, about 5–10 minutes’ walk from the fuglekøje. There is no parking fee, but spaces are limited in peak season and the unpaved lot may fill by midday.
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Taxi
A taxi from Nordby’s ferry terminal to Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje takes around 20–25 minutes. Expect to pay approximately 180–220 DKK. Taxis can drop passengers at the nearest lot, with a short walk required to reach the site.
Discover more about Sønderho Mølle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sønderho Church
0.6 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
0.8 km
Experience the fusion of traditional and experimental folk music in the historic village of Sønderho on Fanø Island.
Hannes Hus
0.9 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
0.9 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
8.9 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
10.8 km
Vast, iconic North Sea beach spanning Fanø’s coastline, famed for its wild dunes, kite festivals, wide sands, and unique Danish maritime character.
Danland Fanø
10.8 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.
Fano Bed and Boats
10.9 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
11.0 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
11.0 km
Explore Fanø's maritime heritage in an authentic 17th-century setting.
Fanø Tourist Office
11.1 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
11.9 km
Essential ferry link connecting Esbjerg and Fanø, ushering travelers from Denmark’s mainland to the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes of the Wadden Sea.
Bunkers on Fanø
12.1 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.
Gangbroen over Toldbodvej, Esbjerg Havn
12.2 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
12.3 km
Historic bridge control tower reborn as Copenhagen’s most intimate cultural venue—offering unique exhibitions, harbor panoramas, café delights, and local arts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fanø Kunstmuseum
0.8 km
Wander beneath linden trees and past centuries-old cottages along Møgeltønder’s Slotsgaden, Denmark’s most enchanting heritage street leading to Schackenborg Castle.
Detrigonometriskestation
0.9 km
Experience the storybook beauty of Slotsgaden, Møgeltønder—Denmark’s most picturesque street, connecting charming thatched cottages with the grandeur of Schackenborg Castle.
Stormflodssøjlen, Sønderho
1.0 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.
Mosedalsbjerg
1.5 km
A breathtaking linden-lined street in Møgeltønder, Slotsgaden charms visitors with its historic thatched cottages and scenic path to Schackenborg Castle.
Seal Bank Walk Meeting Point
1.8 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.
Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje
3.4 km
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.
Skovlegeplads
3.8 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.
Albue Fuglekøje
4.6 km
Discover the serene grandeur of Schackenborg Castle—where Danish nobility, elegant baroque architecture, and lush gardens make for a memorable southern Jutland highlight.
Pælebjerg - Det højeste punkt på Fanø
5.0 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.
Rindby beach
9.0 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.
Mandø Mølle
9.7 km
Discover Schackenborg Castle near Tønder—inspiring Baroque architecture, royal history, peaceful gardens, and cultural events just a day trip from Rømø.
Fanø Vesterland Festival
9.8 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
10.0 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.
stormflodssøjlen mandø
10.0 km
Experience Denmark's Viking heritage through immersive exhibits, interactive workshops, and live demonstrations at Vikingborg in Ribe.
Mandø Museum
10.1 km
Explore Schackenborg Castle: A Baroque Jewel in Denmark's Historic Landscape
Essential places to dine
Tre Søstre
0.7 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
0.9 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
0.9 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
8.4 km
Experience the best of local meats at Fanø Angus & Merino - where tradition meets quality in every bite.
LIGHTHOUSE BURGERS
9.1 km
Savor gourmet burgers made from local ingredients at Lighthouse Burgers on the beautiful island of Fanø.
Stoppestedet I/S
9.1 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.
Axel's Kitchen
9.3 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.
Mandø Kro I/S
9.9 km
Historic island inn and restaurant serving classic Danish fare, set amid the wild beauty of Mandø within the Wadden Sea National Park near Ribe.
Mandøpigen: Cafe, Turbåd & Lejligheder
10.1 km
Island café, apartments, and boat tours at the heart of Mandø, offering homecooked Danish fare and authentic village charm within the Wadden Sea National Park.
KlitHus Mandø
10.1 km
Experience timeless Danish hospitality at KlitHus Mandø—a cozy hotel and restaurant set amid Mandø’s tidal landscapes in the heart of the Wadden Sea National Park.
Restaurant Dino
10.3 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
10.3 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
10.3 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
10.6 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
10.7 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sønderho Gårdbutik
0.4 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
7.2 km
Discover unique fashion accessories that capture the essence of Danish design at Arbuckle Design in Fanø.
Kunstladen
8.5 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
10.7 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
10.8 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
12.3 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
13.9 km
Discover unique Danish fashion at Victoria N Friends, Esbjerg's premier boutique for contemporary apparel and accessories.
Det Gamle Apothek
19.1 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
19.2 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
23.2 km
Discover Rømø’s legendary kite shop, Metropolis Drachen, where wind, colour, and creativity unite on Denmark’s breezy North Sea coast.
Rømø Lys
23.2 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.
By Vicky
23.2 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
23.3 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
23.3 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
23.3 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
0.8 km
Charming, historic café in the heart of Fanø, serving regional Danish dishes, homemade cakes, and signature hygge in a classic thatched-roof setting.
Kabyssen
9.1 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
10.3 km
VadeMad is a lively Nordby eatery blending Fanø’s maritime heritage with seasonal Nordic cuisine beside the island’s iconic brewery.
Hjørnekroen
11.1 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
12.0 km
Experience Esbjerg's harbor transformed into a vibrant beach retreat with cocktails, games, and cultural events.
SoHo - Bar & Cocktails
12.4 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
12.5 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
12.5 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
12.5 km
Experience Esbjerg's vibrant nightlife at Kasket Karl, where local charm meets contemporary flair in a lively bar setting.
Vinbaren
12.6 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
19.1 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
19.2 km
Experience the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Stenbohus, Ribe's beloved tavern offering live music and local brews.
Strygejernet
19.2 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
23.3 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
24.1 km
Experience handcrafted Danish spirits at Marskdestilleriet in Rømø, where tradition meets innovation in distillation.
