Hans Hulehånd: Thomas Dambo’s Whimsical Wooden Troll in Odense
Discover Hans Hulehånd, Thomas Dambo’s iconic recycled-wood troll sculpture, blending Danish folklore, environmental art, and hidden adventure in the heart of Odense.
Hans Hulehånd is an enchanting oversized troll sculpture crafted by renowned artist Thomas Dambo, nestled in a leafy riverside area of Odense, Funen’s largest city. This imaginative creation is part of Dambo’s celebrated series of environmental public artworks using recycled wood, inviting visitors of all ages to discover a world where folklore, creativity, and sustainability meet. The whimsical figure is tucked away off the main paths, turning each visit into a mini adventure and sparking curiosity for Danish tales and nature alike.
A brief summary to Museum Odense
- Overgade 48, Odense, Odense C, 5000, DK
- +4565514601
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes—reaching the troll involves a short walk on uneven ground along the riverbank.
- Bring a camera for creative photos; the sculpture’s hand is perfect for fun poses.
- There are no toilets or cafes at the site, so plan food and restroom breaks before your visit.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and soft natural light.
Getting There
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Walking
From Odense’s city center, stroll towards the riverside parks that flow through the heart of town. The route takes you past cultural landmarks and into green stretches popular for picnics and bike rides. The troll is hidden just beyond a calm section of the riverbank, close to open lawns and wooded paths. Walking time is typically 15–25 minutes from central Odense, making it an easy excursion for most visitors.
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Public Transport
Urban buses from Odense’s main station run regularly toward the neighborhood adjacent to the parkland where Hans Hulehånd awaits. It’s about a 10-minute ride (single adult ticket typically 24–30 DKK), followed by a brief walk along tree-lined paths down to the riverside, where the sculpture is tucked away among the greenery.
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Taxi
A taxi from the core of Odense to the troll’s park area is fast and convenient, often taking around 5–10 minutes. Expect fares in the range of 80–120 DKK depending on exact pickup and traffic. There is no dedicated taxi drop-off at the sculpture itself, but drivers can stop at the closest main access to the riverside paths.
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Car
Drivers will find publicly available parking at several lots along the edge of the riverside parks—municipal rates usually apply, costing around 12–20 DKK per hour. The sculpture itself is not accessible by vehicle, so a short walk through green spaces is required from any of the parking areas. Note that availability may be tight on weekends or during local events.
Discover more about Museum Odense
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Funen Opera
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Blackfriars Square
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H. C. Andersens House
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Carl Nielsen Museum
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The maiden jump
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Essential places to dine
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