Hans Hulehånd: Thomas Dambo’s Giant Troll in Odense
Meet Hans Hulehånd, Thomas Dambo’s giant wooden troll—a playful symbol of Danish folklore and sustainability nestled along the green banks of central Odense.
Hans Hulehånd is a monumental wooden troll sculpture by acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo, situated along the tranquil waters of Østre Dæmning in Odense. Crafted from reclaimed materials, this whimsical giant draws families, art lovers, and urban explorers into a friendly encounter that celebrates Danish folklore and sustainability within an inviting natural setting.
A brief summary to Enebærodde Fyr
- Halshusene 45, Otterup, 5450, DK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring your kids—this is a favorite spot for climbing and playful photos, and the artwork is robustly built for interaction.
- Wear shoes you don’t mind getting muddy after rain; the ground can be soft and a bit slippery.
- Plan a picnic by the water’s edge for a relaxed lunch amidst greenery and art.
- Cyclists can easily combine this stop with other Odense parks or more of Dambo’s trolls if touring Funen.
- Arrive early on sunny weekends to find the troll at its quietest and avoid crowds.
Getting There
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Walking
Departing from Odense’s vibrant city center, Hans Hulehånd is an easy stroll northeast through leafy neighborhoods and local parks. Visitors will recognize the troll’s whimsical form emerging near the tranquil waterside greenbelt, a little beyond the bustle of the old town. The walk takes around 20–30 minutes at a relaxed pace and is entirely free of charge.
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Public Transport
Several local bus lines connect Odense central station to the neighborhoods close to Østre Dæmning. Get off near the lakeside stretch—Hans Hulehånd is visible as you approach the parkland by the water. Bus fares are typically 24–30 DKK for a single adult ticket within Odense.
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Taxi
A short taxi ride from Odense’s main shopping streets brings you to the park entrance, just steps from where Hans Hulehånd holds court by the water. The journey usually takes under 10 minutes, costing between 70–110 DKK depending on time of day and traffic.
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Cycling
Odense features extensive cycle paths and bike hire is widely available in the city center. A relaxed cycle to the sculpture via park trails and waterside routes typically takes 10–15 minutes. Bike parking stands are available at the park entrance at no cost.
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Driving
For drivers, public parking lots are available within a short walk of the park area. Parking fees average 10–20 DKK per hour. Please note that spaces can be limited during weekends or public holidays, especially on sunny days.
Discover more about Enebærodde Fyr
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Enebærodde
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Fredens Kirke
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Banegårdspladsen
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Odense St.
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Saint Hans Church
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King's Garden
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VILLE VAU
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Oceania
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Papirbåden | H.C. Andersen
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Ship Burial Mound
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Østfyns Museer
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Sortehusene
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Fyns Hoved
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Hans Hulehånd af Thomas Dambo
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Thriges Kraftcentral
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Danmarks Jernbanemuseum
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Gothic grandeur in the heart of Odense, where royal history, Danish legends, and spiritual architecture converge at St. Canute’s Cathedral.
Carl Nielsen Museum
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Denmark’s only Viking ship burial, Ladby blends atmospheric history, hands-on exhibits, fjord views, and immersive storytelling for a truly unique Funen adventure.
TIME - Museum for Odense
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Museum Odense
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Blackfriars Square
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The Glavendrup Stone
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Essential places to dine
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Restaurant Aro
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Restaurant Sezer v/Askin
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Restaurant Næsbyhoved Skov
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Restaurant Nordatlanten ApS
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Grønttorvet
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Restaurant Under Lindetræet
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Den Gamle Kro A/S
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Brasserie Bordeaux
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Restaurant Oluf Bagers Gaard
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Ryan's of Odense
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Restaurant Ribelli
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Den Lille Smalle
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Restaurant Bacchus
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Restaurant Mam
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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DesignKnap
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Bootleggers Odense Craft Beer Bar
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Lalou Vinbar
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The Old Irish Pub
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Carlsens Kvarter
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Den Røde Bar
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Central Cafeen
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Bistroen
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ØbyUS
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