Hans Hulehånd: Thomas Dambo’s Giant Troll by the River in Odense
Discover Hans Hulehånd, a magical recycled-wood troll by Thomas Dambo on Odense’s riverside, blending folklore, artistry, and sustainability in urban Funen.
Hans Hulehånd, crafted by artist Thomas Dambo, is a captivating giant troll sculpture made from recycled wood, situated along the riverbanks in Odense. Blending whimsical myth with environmental art, this open-air installation invites visitors to explore a playful side of Danish folklore while embracing sustainability and creative public art.
A brief summary to The Ship Burial Mound
- Vikingevej 123, Kerteminde, 5300, DK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes—some paths near the troll can be uneven, especially in wet weather.
- Great for families and children; bring a picnic to enjoy by the river.
- Photography is encouraged, but respect the natural setting and avoid climbing the sculpture.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Odense’s green spaces or nearby urban attractions.
Getting There
-
Walking
From central Odense, it’s a relaxing 15–25 minute walk through parklands and along the river, passing by popular cafés and the green campus area before reaching the riverside where the troll awaits. This stroll is well-suited for families and is flat and mostly accessible.
-
Public Transport
City buses from Odense’s main hub reach stops near the riverbank in about 10–15 minutes, with single adult tickets costing around 24–28 DKK. From the stop, it’s a short, signposted stroll through green parks to the sculpture.
-
Taxi
A taxi from Odense’s center typically takes 6–10 minutes and costs 80–120 DKK, depending on traffic. Drop-offs are possible near the riverside paths, but minimal parking is available close by.
-
Driving
If arriving by car, limited street parking is available near nearby recreational areas; expect municipal parking fees of 10–18 DKK per hour. From there, a pleasant walk brings you through green spaces to the troll’s location.
Discover more about The Ship Burial Mound
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Johannes Larsen Museum
3.1 km
Explore the preserved home and studios of Danish nature painter Johannes Larsen in Kerteminde, featuring art, lush gardens, and scenic views.
Enebærodde
10.0 km
Vast landscapes of juniper, wild coastline, and tranquil views await at Enebærodde—a protected nature peninsula and outdoor haven on Funen’s northern edge.
Sanderumgaard v/Erik Vind
11.5 km
Discover Sanderumgaard, Funen’s enchanting Romantic-era landscape park: a blend of historic estate, poetic gardens, and serene lakes just beyond Odense.
Mårhøj/Snavehøjen
13.0 km
Explore Mårhøj/Snavehøjen, Funen's largest passage grave, dating back to the Stone Age, offering a unique glimpse into Neolithic Denmark and the ancient Funnelbeaker culture.
Romsø
13.3 km
Discover Romsø, an untouched Danish island offering tranquil nature, diverse wildlife, and a serene escape from modern life in the heart of the Great Belt.
Rolfshøj
14.0 km
Experience Danish seafaring history in an award-winning underground museum beside Kronborg Castle, where interactive exhibits meet cutting-edge architecture in Helsingør.
Fredens Kirke
14.3 km
Explore Denmark's rich maritime heritage in an award-winning museum set within a historic dry dock in Helsingør.
Andersen on the bench
15.0 km
Strike a pose with Hans Christian Andersen himself—this lifelike bronze statue in Odense invites you to sit, reflect, and celebrate Denmark’s storytelling legacy.
Banegårdspladsen
15.1 km
Denmark’s celebrated M/S Maritime Museum in Helsingør fuses iconic modern architecture with engaging exhibits on seafaring, trade, and the maritime heart of the nation.
VILLE VAU
15.2 km
A world-class architectural landmark offering immersive exhibitions on Denmark’s maritime past and present, set in a dramatic underground dry dock by Kronborg Castle.
Odense St.
15.2 km
Discover Jægersborggade: Copenhagen's vibrant street blending art, fashion, and gastronomy in the heart of Nørrebro.
Papirbåden | H.C. Andersen
15.2 km
Slottsträdgården in Malmö is a sprawling organic garden beside Malmöhus Castle, blending nature, history, and local culture into one of Sweden’s most inviting city parks.
Saint Hans Church
15.2 km
A buzzing pedestrian street in Nørrebro, Jægersborggade blends Copenhagen’s creative edge with indie shops, urban gastronomy, and an atmosphere beloved by locals.
King's Garden
15.3 km
Lush, centuries-old park near Odense Castle offering tranquil landscaping, rich royal history, summer flower beds, and a vibrant local gathering spot in central Funen.
St. Canute's Cathedral
15.3 km
Discover Danish and Nordic art in a refined gallery space at Bredgade Kunsthandel, a landmark for modern and classical works in central Copenhagen.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Viking Museum Ladby
0.2 km
Explore Denmark's only Viking ship burial at the Viking Museum Ladby, offering immersive exhibits and authentic artifacts.
Østfyns Museer
2.8 km
Experience untamed Nordic nature, rare wildlife, and breathtaking coastal views at Fyns Hoved—Funen’s spectacular, windswept headland and beloved nature preserve.
Enebærodde Fyr
8.6 km
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.
Sortehusene
11.7 km
Discover Hans Hulehånd, a whimsical giant troll sculpture by Thomas Dambo, hidden along Odense’s green embankments—a playful encounter with Danish folklore and eco art.
Hans Hulehånd af Thomas Dambo
12.4 km
Discover Hans Hulehånd, a towering recycled troll sculpture by Thomas Dambo—uniting public art, playful legends, and green values at the edge of Odense’s wetlands.
Davinde Stenmuseum
13.4 km
Discover Hans Hulehånd, Odense’s larger-than-life wooden troll sculpture by Thomas Dambo—an enchanting fusion of folklore, sustainable art, and natural beauty on Funen.
Go monkey odense
14.0 km
Striking street art celebrating Hans Christian Andersen in Odense’s city center, blending fairy tale legacy with contemporary creativity in a vibrant public mural.
Bunkermuseum Of Odense
14.7 km
Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter dazzles with cobbled streets, artisan cafés, vibrant galleries, and local boutiques—an essential blend of Danish tradition and modern flair.
University Press of Southern Denmark
14.8 km
Gothic grandeur, royal tombs, and centuries of Danish history await inside Odense Cathedral, the city’s soaring medieval landmark in the heart of Funen.
TIME - Museum for Odense
14.9 km
Discover The Maiden Jump in Odense: A harmonious blend of history and art, offering a unique glimpse into Denmark's cultural heritage.
Sneglehøjen
14.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Sneglehøjen, Odense's serene natural retreat perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
Museum Odense
14.9 km
Discover Hans Hulehånd, Thomas Dambo’s iconic recycled-wood troll sculpture, blending Danish folklore, environmental art, and hidden adventure in the heart of Odense.
Thriges Kraftcentral
14.9 km
Discover the untamed beauty of Fyns Hoved, Funen’s northern peninsula, renowned for panoramic seascapes, glacial landscapes, rare birds, and wildflowers.
Carl Nielsen Museum
15.0 km
Denmark’s only Viking ship burial, Ladby blends atmospheric history, hands-on exhibits, fjord views, and immersive storytelling for a truly unique Funen adventure.
Kramboden i Odense
15.0 km
Gothic grandeur and royal history meet in the heart of Odense at St. Canute's Cathedral, a landmark of spiritual and architectural significance on Funen.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Rudolf Mathis ApS
2.9 km
Fine dining in a historic seafront setting, Restaurant Rudolf Mathis in Kerteminde offers an unforgettable taste of Danish coastal cuisine with stunning harbour views.
Restaurant Aro
13.9 km
Award-winning fine dining in Odense, Restaurant Aro delivers inventive Nordic cuisine, local produce, and innovative tasting menus in a stylish, industrial-chic setting.
Restaurant Sezer v/Askin
14.7 km
Experience exquisite flavors at Restaurant Sezer in Odense – where culinary artistry meets local tradition.
Grønttorvet
15.0 km
Classic Danish cuisine and warm hospitality await at Grønttorvet, a beloved restaurant on Odense's historic main square in the heart of Funen.
Den Gamle Kro A/S
15.1 km
Centuries-old Danish restaurant in Odense, delighting guests with authentic cuisine, timber-framed ambiance, and stories from Funen’s past in the city’s heart.
Restaurant Under Lindetræet
15.1 km
Restaurant Under Lindetræet in Odense offers acclaimed Danish gourmet dining amidst historic settings and fairy tale charm, blending tradition with modern Nordic cuisine.
Vår
15.1 km
Contemporary Nordic restaurant in Odense offering innovative tasting menus rooted in Funen’s local ingredients, sustainability, and the artistry of New Danish cuisine.
Restaurant Oluf Bagers Gaard
15.2 km
Savor contemporary Nordic cuisine in a historic 16th-century courtyard at Odense’s acclaimed Restaurant Oluf Bagers Gaard, blending local flavor with heritage ambiance.
Brasserie Bordeaux
15.2 km
Discover Brasserie Bordeaux in Odense - where French culinary elegance meets Danish hospitality in an unforgettable dining experience.
Ryan's of Odense
15.2 km
Atmospheric Irish pub in Odense’s lively city center, famed for its live music, warm hospitality, and classic selection of beers and comfort food.
Restaurant Ribelli
15.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Odense at Restaurant Ribelli - where tradition meets local flavors.
Den Lille Smalle
15.3 km
Experience Odense’s contemporary Nordic café culture with creative brunch, expertly brewed coffee, and a welcoming vibe at Den Lille Smalle in the city’s heart.
Restaurant Bacchus
15.3 km
Discover the exquisite taste of France at Restaurant Bacchus in Odense C – where culinary artistry meets delightful ambiance.
MASH - Restaurant Odense
15.3 km
Experience American-style steakhouse sophistication with Danish charm at MASH Odense, where prime cuts and cosmopolitan ambiance meet in Odense city center.
A Hereford Beefstouw - Odense
15.3 km
Discover gourmet steak dining at A Hereford Beefstouw in Odense - where quality meets exceptional service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hipstory | SHOWROOM ODENSE
14.4 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired furniture and décor at Hipstory Showroom Odense, where past meets present in design excellence.
Look At This
14.7 km
Discover unique Danish fashion at Look At This, Odense's premier boutique for sustainable and locally designed apparel.
Magasin Odense
15.4 km
A landmark Danish department store blending Scandinavian design, local charm, and gourmet food in central Odense—ideal for browsing, shopping, or soaking up urban style.
Skovsted Nyborg
15.9 km
Discover Skovsted Nyborg: Nyborg's premier toy store offering a curated selection of classic and modern toys for all ages.
Bohemian Wonders
16.6 km
Discover unique, ethically sourced vintage fashion at Bohemian Wonders in Odense.
DesignKnap
18.1 km
Discover contemporary Scandinavian fashion at DesignKnap, Nyborg's premier clothing boutique.
Pyre Studio
18.5 km
Discover Danish fashion at Pyre Studio, Nyborg's premier boutique for unique and stylish apparel.
Gen&Brug Nyborg
18.6 km
Gen&Brug Nyborg is a vibrant second-hand shop offering preloved treasures, Danish design finds, and a warm, sustainable shopping experience in central Nyborg.
Tippy
18.6 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at Tippy, a boutique nestled in Nyborg's historic center.
Sprogø
25.8 km
Sprogø is a windswept, storied Danish island in the Great Belt, offering rare guided visits to its lighthouse, wild landscapes, and hauntingly historic past.
Kalundborg Bogbyer
39.6 km
Kalundborg Bogbyer is a welcoming independent bookstore in historic Kalundborg, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of books and hosting vibrant literary events.
Thranes Legetøi
39.7 km
Discover the magic of play at Thranes Legetøj, Kalundborg's premier toy store offering a diverse selection for all ages.
Gliimt
39.7 km
Discover Gliimt: Kalundborg's Premier Children's Clothing Boutique
Samsø Gårdbutik Svanegården
40.3 km
Experience the heart of Samsø at Svanegården, where local produce, handmade crafts, and the timeless charm of Danish island farm life come together in one idyllic countryside setting.
Eskehus Samsø
40.9 km
Eclectic art gallery and creative hub in Brundby, Samsø, where local artists and visitors mingle among unique paintings, crafty creations, and high-quality art supplies.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Flower and the Bee
14.9 km
Experience Odense's vibrant nightlife at The Flower and the Bee, a premier weekend dance bar offering quality cocktails and dynamic music in a lively atmosphere.
Lørups Vinstue
15.0 km
Historic bar in the heart of Odense offering classic Danish atmosphere, eclectic memorabilia, live music, and affordable drinks for an authentic local experience.
Bootleggers Odense Craft Beer Bar
15.4 km
Discover Bootleggers Odense, a vibrant craft beer bar on Gråbrødre Plads offering curated Danish and international brews in a welcoming city-center setting.
Lalou Vinbar
15.5 km
Chic, candle-lit wine bar in central Odense, serving natural and organic wines with expert guidance in a welcoming Scandinavian setting.
Carlsens Kvarter
15.6 km
Carlsens Kvarter—Odense’s legendary tavern fusing classic Danish ‘brown bar’ atmosphere with one of Funen’s best craft beer selections.
Christian Firtal
15.6 km
Beloved craft beer bar in Odense’s historic quarter, famed for its cozy atmosphere, rotating taps of Danish and international brews, and authentic local 'hygge' spirit.
The Old Irish Pub
15.6 km
Classic Irish hospitality in Odense: live music, big screens for sports, and a buzzing crowd in a cozy pub full of spirited atmosphere.
Den Røde Bar
15.9 km
Den Røde Bar is Odense’s creative watering hole, celebrated for its intimate theatre connections, local artistry, eclectic events, and inviting bohemian ambiance.
Hjallese Puben
17.2 km
Experience authentic Danish pub culture at Hjallese Puben in Odense S.
Central Cafeen
18.5 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Central Caféen, a historic gem in Nyborg since 1854.
Jimbo's Kaffebar
18.5 km
Buzzing local coffee bar in Nyborg’s city center, mixing top-quality coffee, craft drinks, and Danish pastries with authentic small-town charm.
Øksendrup Cider
18.5 km
Experience the authentic flavors of South Funen's organic ciders at Øksendrup Cider.
Chr. II's Pub
18.6 km
Experience authentic Danish hospitality at Chr. II's Pub in Nyborg's historic center.
Bistroen
18.8 km
Modern Danish bistro nestled by Nyborg’s scenic waterfront, offering local flavors, seasonal cuisine, and relaxed ambiance just steps from the historic coastline.
Restaurant Næs
38.2 km
Savor locally sourced, modern Danish cuisine with stunning fjord views at Restaurant Næs—Kalundborg's standout contemporary dining destination.
