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Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje: A Glimpse into Fanø’s Traditional Duck Decoy

Step into history at Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, Fanø’s authentic duck decoy, where Danish coastal tradition, wildlife, and island heritage come to life in tranquil heathland.

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Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje is a historical duck decoy on Fanø island, set amidst tranquil heathland south of Sønderho. This unique open-air museum offers insight into centuries-old waterfowl hunting traditions, Danish coastal heritage, and the island’s special relationship with its wild natural landscapes. Visitors will discover outdoor reed-covered tunnels, rustic wooden sheds, and a serene setting rich with migratory birdlife.

A brief summary to Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the paths can be sandy and uneven, especially after rain.
  • Self-guided explanatory signs are in Danish; consider a translation app for deeper context.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, particularly during spring and autumn migrations.
  • There are no toilets or refreshments on site, so plan ahead before visiting.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the main center of Sønderho village, it’s a pleasant 15–25 minute walk through heathland and along sandy forest trails toward the south of Fanø. The route offers views of wind-leaning pines and coastal scenery, making for a tranquil and scenic approach. Look for interpretive signs at the edge of the woodland to lead you toward the historic duck decoy. There is no admission fee for entry, and the area is typically quiet with few crowds.

  • Bicycle

    Cyclists can reach the site from Sønderho village or other points on Fanø by following the island’s bike-friendly paths south, surrounded by open landscapes and occasional glimpses of grazing sheep. Expect a leisurely 10–15 minute ride from the village. Bicycle parking is available at the site, and there are no charges to leave your bike.

  • Car/Taxi

    A short drive or taxi ride from central Sønderho brings you near the entrance to Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje. Car access is via rural roads through heathland, and parking is typically available without charge at small lay-bys near the site. Taxi rides from the center generally cost DKK 80–120 depending on time and availability.

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Discover more about Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje

Tucked away in Fanø’s peaceful southern stretches, Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje is a rare find: part museum, part living landscape, it is one of only a handful of remaining duck decoys in Denmark. Built in the late 19th century, this ingeniously designed site was once central to the island’s way of life. Generations of locals mastered the art of luring wild ducks along sinuous water channels—reed-edged tunnels curving through open heath—to capture birds for food and trade. Today, the restored ‘fuglekøje’ stands as a fascinating window into the region’s maritime traditions and rural ingenuity. Visitors follow a path through quiet dunes and wind-bent pines to reach the main clearing, where a rustic information hut and historical displays explain the hunt’s techniques and sustainability. Outside, the main pond and its gently arched reed tunnels capture the imagination, hinting at the patience and skill required by former decoymen. Interpretive signs reveal how the system was managed to channel birds into the narrowing passageways. The site is especially atmospheric in spring and autumn, when flocks of migratory birds fill the skies overhead, and the wind carries only the sound of reeds and distant surf—no cars, no city noise, just the ancient rhythm of nature and history entwined. Open to all during daylight hours, Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje invites a slow wander, picnic, or moment of waterside contemplation. It also celebrates the island’s commitment to wildlife conservation, showing how old traditions can coexist with present-day appreciation for Fanø’s rich biodiversity. While the site itself is small, the experience promises contemplative insight, fresh sea air, and a sense of connection to Fanø’s unique island heritage.

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