Hans Hulehånd: Odense's Whimsical Giant by Thomas Dambo
Discover Hans Hulehånd, a monumental wooden troll by Thomas Dambo, hidden among Odense’s greenery—where street art, folklore, and Danish nature come together for all ages.
Hans Hulehånd is one of Denmark's enchanting outdoor trolls by acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo, nestled amidst natural surroundings on the outskirts of Odense. This colossal wooden sculpture invites visitors of all ages to step into a world of fantasy, art, and local folklore. Perfect for families and explorers, it’s a free, open-air installation where creativity, nature, and craftsmanship meet in a uniquely Danish setting.
A brief summary to Washing Site at Odense River
- Paaskestræde 20, Odense Municipality, Odense C, 5000, DK
- +4566131372
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes—paths can be muddy after rain and some climbing is encouraged for full enjoyment.
- Ideal for families and photography—bring snacks and make it a picnic with the troll as your backdrop.
- There are no facilities directly on site; restrooms and shops are found closer to Odense city center.
- The artwork is always accessible, but daylight hours are best to fully appreciate the surroundings.
Getting There
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Walking
From Odense’s central train station, a comfortable walk of about 25–35 minutes leads you east, skirting local parks and waterways before you enter the calmer natural area past the urban edge. As you approach the outer city, keep an eye out for the clusters of reeds and trees that mark the arrival at Hans Hulehånd. The route is popular with cyclists as well, with paths suitable for both cycling and strolling.
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Public Transport
City buses leave regularly from the main transport hubs of Odense, stopping within a short walk of the green area near Hans Hulehånd. Expect a ~10–15 minute ride, with adult tickets typically costing 24–30 DKK. From the nearest stop, it’s a brief and pleasant walk into the natural reserve, where the troll awaits near the water's edge.
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Taxi
A taxi from the heart of Odense provides a quick and direct ride, generally reaching the site in 8–12 minutes depending on traffic. Fares average 90–130 DKK. Limited parking is available in the vicinity, though it may fill on fair-weather weekends.
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Driving
Drivers can reach the outer neighborhoods of Odense with ease, as the area is well signposted from major approaches to the city. Parking is available in certain public lots near the natural area; costs range from free to 16–18 DKK per hour, depending on time and location. Note that the final segment requires a short walk through natural paths, not always paved.
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