Søndermarken
Former royal hunting grounds turned semi-wild city park, Søndermarken blends forested paths, meadows and an underground art world beneath Frederiksberg’s leafy streets.
Søndermarken is a historic, tree-draped park in Frederiksberg, offering a surprisingly wild, almost forest-like landscape on the edge of central Copenhagen. Once a royal hunting ground for Frederiksberg Palace, it now blends rolling lawns, meadows and wooded hills with cultural highlights such as the underground art space Cisternerne. Joggers, dog walkers, families and picnickers share the paths with art lovers and history buffs in this quietly atmospheric green escape.
A brief summary to Søndermarken
- Pile Allé 55, Frederiksberg, 2000, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- 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
- Combine a circuit of Søndermarken with a timed visit to Cisternerne; check current exhibition hours and ticket prices in advance, as entry to the underground art space is paid and seasonal.
- For a quieter experience, aim for early mornings or weekday daylight hours, when jogging traffic is light and the wooded paths feel particularly tranquil.
- Wear shoes suitable for uneven, occasionally muddy ground; the park’s hilly, partly wild terrain and long grass can stay damp after rain.
- Bring a light layer even in summer if you plan to visit Cisternerne beneath the park—temperatures underground are noticeably cooler than at the surface.
- If visiting with children, factor in time at the playground and open lawns, and consider pairing the park with Copenhagen Zoo or Frederiksberg Gardens nearby.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Metro and walk
From central Copenhagen, take the M1 or M2 metro to Kongens Nytorv and change to line M3 towards Frederiksberg; ride to Frederiksberg Allé Station, which usually takes 10–15 minutes in total. Metro tickets within the city zones generally cost around 20–30 DKK one way. From Frederiksberg Allé, allow a further 15–20 minutes on foot along level pavements to reach the park’s edge; the route is step-free and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
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S-train and bus
If you are near the S-train network, travel to Valby Station on lines such as B or C, with journeys from the city centre taking about 10 minutes. A standard city ticket is typically 20–30 DKK each way. Outside the station, frequent local buses run towards Frederiksberg and stop near Roskildevej close to Søndermarken; the bus segment often takes 5–10 minutes. Most buses are low-floor and accessible, but they can be crowded at rush hour.
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Bicycle
Cycling from the historic centre of Copenhagen to Søndermarken usually takes 15–25 minutes, following the city’s extensive bike lanes almost the entire way. You can use a city bike scheme or standard rental, often priced from about 75–150 DKK for a day depending on provider. The terrain is flat, but traffic can be busy during commuting hours, so this option suits confident cyclists comfortable riding alongside locals.
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Taxi or rideshare
A taxi from central Copenhagen to the edges of Søndermarken commonly takes 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares typically range from about 120–220 DKK one way, with higher prices in peak periods or late at night. Vehicles can usually drop passengers on the surrounding streets, but they cannot drive into the park itself, so expect a short walk across level ground from the nearest drop-off point.
Søndermarken location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Søndermarken
From royal hunting ground to public green refuge
Søndermarken stretches along the border between Frederiksberg and Valby, forming a hilly, wooded counterpoint to the more manicured Frederiksberg Gardens across the road. Laid out in the 18th century as a hunting ground for the royal court at Frederiksberg Palace, it was once reserved for kings and their guests roaming on horseback in search of deer and game. That aristocratic past still shapes the park’s bones. Broad, gently curving avenues slice through thickets of old trees, while smaller paths twist off into more intimate corners. Since opening to the public in the mid-19th century, Søndermarken has evolved into a genuine city breathing space, where the traces of royal landscape design meet a looser, more natural character.A wilder side of Copenhagen’s nature
Unlike many formal European palace parks, Søndermarken leans into a semi-wild look. Long meadow-like grass ripples in the breeze, pockets of undergrowth are left for wild plants, and the canopy is dense enough in places to feel unexpectedly woodland-like. In the quieter corners you may spot or hear owls roosting in mature trunks overhead. The terrain rises and dips more than you might expect in such an urban setting, giving you shifting views as you move: from shady, almost secluded hollows to broad clearings where the sky opens above sweeping lawns. Seasonal changes are particularly striking here, from early spring blossom to autumn’s deep golds and russets.Cisternerne and stories beneath the surface
Hidden just under the grass, Søndermarken shelters one of Copenhagen’s most atmospheric art venues. Cisternerne occupies vast former water cisterns that once helped secure clean drinking water for the city in the 19th century, a response to health crises of the time. Today, this underground cathedral of concrete pillars, pools and echoing chambers hosts contemporary art exhibitions. Stepping down into the cool, dim reservoir is a sharp contrast to the open park above. Sound carries in unusual ways, light is carefully controlled, and artworks often play with reflections and moisture. Even if you remain on the surface, knowing that this cavernous world lies beneath your feet adds a layer of intrigue to an ordinary stroll.Everyday life: joggers, families and quiet moments
For locals, Søndermarken is as much a practical backyard as a grand historic landscape. Runners trace regular loops along the wider paths, and dog walkers make use of the more wooded stretches where the setting feels pleasantly away from traffic. Families gravitate towards the playground areas and open lawns, spreading out blankets on sunny days. It is also a popular setting for informal exercise classes, school sports days and open-air cultural events on the grass, yet there is nearly always a quiet corner to be found. Benches tucked under trees and small clearings between shrubs invite you to pause with a book or simply sit and listen to the rustle of leaves and distant city sounds.Memorials, viewpoints and neighbouring landmarks
Scattered through the park you encounter hints of wider histories. A memorial mound raised by Danish emigrants in the United States pays tribute to transatlantic ties, while statues such as the monument to poet Adam Oehlenschläger connect the landscape to Denmark’s cultural life. From some higher points you can glimpse Frederiksberg Palace and the enclosures of Copenhagen Zoo nearby. Søndermarken’s position makes it an easy companion to other sights. Without ever leaving the green belt, you can thread a day between the palace, Frederiksberg Gardens, the zoo and the subterranean galleries. Yet the park itself rewards lingering, offering enough detail and variety to justify a dedicated visit.Planning your time in the park
The park is open at all hours, and its unfenced paths make it feel like a seamless part of the surrounding district. A simple circuit to get a feel for the landscape might take under an hour, but adding a visit to Cisternerne, time on the playground, or a leisurely picnic can easily fill half a day. Early mornings and weekday daylight hours tend to be the calmest moments. Surfaces range from compact gravel to grass and occasional steeper slopes, so comfortable shoes are worthwhile. Because it is a true urban park rather than a manicured garden, expect natural ground conditions after rain, from damp lawns to the smell of wet earth rising between the trees.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Elefantporten
0.6 km
Four monumental granite elephants carry a historic brewery tower on their backs, blending whimsy, symbolism and industrial heritage in the heart of Carlsberg Byen.
Storm P. Museum
0.7 km
Delve into the world of Danish humor and satirical art at the Storm P. Museum, where whimsical cartoons, eccentric inventions, and cultural history come alive in Frederiksberg.
CWGC Krigsgrave, CWGC Graves
0.9 km
Scandinavia's largest cemetery: a 54-hectare landscape of history, architecture, and remembrance in Copenhagen.
Frederiksbergmuseerne
0.9 km
Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.
Møstings Hus
0.9 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
1.0 km
Brick-clad beacon of Frederiksberg’s independence, this 1950s functionalist town hall blends civic power, mid‑century Danish design and views across leafy Copenhagen.
Enghaveparken
1.2 km
Historic art deco park with rose gardens, community events, family-friendly spaces, and a vibrant local atmosphere at the heart of Vesterbro, Copenhagen.
Frihedsstøtten
2.5 km
Statuesque tribute to Danish freedom: Frihedsstøtten stands as a majestic milestone marking the abolition of serfdom at the vibrant gateway to Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Cykelslangen
2.5 km
An elevated orange ribbon over Copenhagen’s harbor where cyclists glide above the water and visitors glimpse the city’s everyday bicycle culture in motion.
Copenhagen Central Station
2.6 km
Historic brick-and-timber rail hub at the heart of Copenhagen, combining grand architecture, everyday convenience and instant access to the city’s main sights.
Copenhagen Visitor Service
2.6 km
Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Folkets Park
2.7 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Central Post Building
2.7 km
A majestic neo-Baroque landmark intertwining Denmark’s postal history with Vesterbro’s vibrant urban fabric, located beside Copenhagen’s bustling central railway station.
Havneholmen 33
2.7 km
Striking waterfront media headquarters in Copenhagen’s Havneholmen district, where modern Danish office architecture meets busy cycle bridges and harbour life.
Tivoli Gardens
2.8 km
Discover the magic of Tivoli Gardens, a historic theme park in Copenhagen that offers thrilling rides, beautiful gardens, and captivating performances.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cisterns in Søndermarken
0.1 km
Discover Danish celebrity history and culture under the trees of Frederiksberg Allé, where handprints and names honor the stars of Denmark’s stage and screen.
Copenhagen Zoo
0.2 km
Historic canal in Indre By weaving past royal palaces, stately bridges, and cultural icons—offering tranquil walks and quintessential Copenhagen views.
Frederiksberg Palace
0.2 km
Renaissance splendor, regal treasures, and royal intrigue await within Rosenborg Castle, set amid the enchanting King’s Garden in central Copenhagen.
Frederiksberg Gardens
0.5 km
Royal waterways, baroque palaces, and pacifier traditions in Copenhagen's most romantic green escape.
The Hill House Museum
0.5 km
Step into a preserved Danish Golden Age home where intimate rooms, a romantic garden and literary memories of Hans Christian Andersen bring 19th‑century Frederiksberg to life.
Carlsberg Brewery Tours
0.7 km
Step into the original 1847 Carlsberg brewery for immersive beer history, interactive exhibits, courtyard drinks and encounters with the brewery’s iconic draught horses.
Frederiksberg Walk of Fame
1.0 km
Explore the Frederiksberg Walk of Fame, where Denmark's cultural legends are celebrated along a historic, tree-lined avenue.
Frederiksberg Allé
1.1 km
Copenhagen’s historic royal boulevard, where linden trees, theatres and elegant facades lead from city bustle to the green calm of Frederiksberg Gardens.
Falkonerbrønden
1.4 km
A star-studded stroll in Copenhagen: the Frederiksberg Walk of Fame celebrates Danish legends along one of the city’s most iconic boulevards.
Landbohøjskolens Have
1.6 km
A 19th‑century university horticultural garden in Frederiksberg, where scientific plant collections and everyday park life blend into a calm green refuge.
Værnedamsvej
1.6 km
Copenhagen’s “Little Paris”: a short, atmospheric street where historic food shops, French-inflected cafés and design boutiques create an intimate, everyday city buzz.
Folkehuset Absalon
1.7 km
Copenhagen's beloved community gathering space where strangers share meals, create art, and build genuine connections.
Legepladsen i Skydebanehaven
1.8 km
A colourful staffed playground tucked inside a historic walled park in Vesterbro, where giant parrots, paddling pools and lawns turn old shooting grounds into family fun.
Det Ny Teater
2.0 km
Historic Belle Époque playhouse turned musical powerhouse, Det Ny Teater blends gilded grandeur, modern stagecraft and big‑scale productions in the heart of Copenhagen.
Istedgade
2.0 km
Gritty, creative and endlessly watchable, Istedgade is Vesterbro’s main strip and Copenhagen’s classic showcase of everyday city life with an edge.
Essential places to dine
Enomania
0.5 km
Intimate Italian restaurant in Frederiksberg celebrated for expertly paired wine menus, exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, and an atmospheric, welcoming dining experience.
Hansens Gamle Familiehave
0.5 km
Hansens Gamle Familiehave—a historic Frederiksberg garden restaurant famed for classic Danish cuisine, family-friendly charm, and over 170 years of tradition in scenic surroundings.
Restaurant Frederiks Have
1.0 km
Frederiksberg’s cherished fine dining hub, blending Nordic tradition with modern cuisine in a welcoming, neighborhood setting—perfect for an authentic Danish gastronomic experience.
Ewalds Brasserie
1.0 km
Classic Danish-French brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, offering seasonal menus, a cozy atmosphere, and stunning garden views for an authentic local dining experience.
Café Lindevang
1.2 km
A beloved Frederiksberg institution, Café Lindevang serves up hearty Danish classics and authentic smørrebrød in cozy, vintage surroundings steeped in local charm.
Frederik the VI
1.3 km
Discover culinary delights at Frederik the VI - a vibrant restaurant and pub serving authentic Danish cuisine in Frederiksberg C.
Restaurant Polly København
1.5 km
A modern Nordic brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, blending Danish produce, creative cuisine, and relaxed elegance for a memorable city dining experience.
Bevi Bevi
1.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Bevi Bevi, a charming restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen.
Restaurant Spuntino
1.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Spuntino in Copenhagen - where flavors meet ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Madklubben Vesterbro
1.8 km
A buzzing, design-forward restaurant in the heart of Vesterbro, known for great value fixed-price menus and a welcoming slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Delphine
2.0 km
Stylish Mediterranean small plates in a visually stunning Vesterbro setting.
Cofoco
2.1 km
Cofoco in Vesterbro delights with accessible, innovative Danish and European tasting menus amid warm Scandinavian aesthetics and a true neighborhood spirit.
Paté Paté
2.1 km
Paté Paté offers Mediterranean-inspired dining and expertly curated wines in Vesterbro’s Meatpacking District, blending industrial charm with vibrant Copenhagen culinary culture.
Maple Casual Dining
2.1 km
Intimate Copenhagen dinner spot on Vesterbrogade, serving polished home-style dishes, generous desserts and warm service in a cozy, modern neighborhood setting.
Je t'aime
2.1 km
Intimate Vesterbro bistro where candlelight, classic French dishes and a well‑chosen wine list bring a touch of Paris to a quiet Copenhagen side street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
0.9 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage and timeless design at discounted prices in Frederiksberg’s celebrated Royal Copenhagen Outlet, close to the city’s green heart.
Frederiksberg Centret
1.4 km
Frederiksberg Centret offers a sleek, Scandinavian shopping experience with 90+ stores, cafés, and events in the chic heart of Frederiksberg, steps from the Metro.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.8 km
Compact, colorful and full of playful Danish design, this Vesterbrogade shop turns everyday essentials, gifts and games into a fun, low-cost treasure hunt.
Artikel København
1.8 km
Family-run Copenhagen atelier where timeless, unisex garments are designed, cut and sewn in an open workshop on historic Gammel Kongevej.
Funky Junky
1.8 km
Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
2.5 km
A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.
Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall
2.5 km
Scandinavia's premier shopping destination with 120+ brands, world-class cinema, and waterfront charm.
Souvenir Gift Shop
2.6 km
Compact, central and colourful, this Vesterbrogade gift shop is a quick and easy stop for Copenhagen-themed souvenirs between Tivoli, Vesterbro and the Central Station.
Tivoli Gift Shop
2.7 km
A compact slice of Tivoli Gardens magic just outside the park gates, perfect for picking up Copenhagen souvenirs before or after your visit.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
2.8 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and timeless fashion in the heart of Nørrebro’s creative district at Perfectly Worn Vintage, Copenhagen’s haven for unique style.
København K
2.9 km
Hidden in a Latin Quarter courtyard, København K is a long-standing Copenhagen vintage shop packed with curated second-hand fashion, denim and quirky homeware finds.
Wonderful Souvenirs
2.9 km
Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
PRAG Nørrebro
2.9 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Danish Souvenirs
3.0 km
Central Copenhagen’s one‑stop Strøget shop for Little Mermaid trinkets, Viking keepsakes and easy last‑minute gifts before you say farvel to Denmark.
Carmen Copenhagen
3.0 km
Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Intime
0.9 km
Discover the charm of Cafe Intime, a cozy bar and cafe in Frederiksberg offering delightful drinks and a warm ambiance for every visitor.
Berlin Bar
1.2 km
Experience the eclectic vibe and creative mixology at Berlin Bar, the perfect spot for memorable nights in Frederiksberg.
JOJO
1.2 km
Colourful neighbourhood cocktail bar in Vesterbro, serving freshly crafted drinks on tap in a relaxed, sociable setting that suits pre-drinks, dates and casual nights.
Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar - Frederiksberg
1.3 km
Experience the craft of brewing at Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar, Frederiksberg's premier destination for beer lovers with an extensive selection and vibrant atmosphere.
The House of Machines Copenhagen
1.3 km
Award-winning cocktail bar with industrial soul and live music in Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Märkbar
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Märkbar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets an eclectic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
bird
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Bird, where unique cocktails and a laid-back ambiance await you.
La Fée Verte
1.5 km
Discover La Fée Verte, a charming bar in Frederiksberg, offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Riesen Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Riesen Bar, where great drinks and lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.
Tap 21 Craft Beer
1.7 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Tap 21, a cozy Frederiksberg bar offering a wide selection of local and international brews in a welcoming atmosphere.
Lidkoeb
1.7 km
Discover Lidkoeb, a vibrant cocktail bar in Copenhagen, renowned for its innovative drinks and lively atmosphere, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
Amigo Bar
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Amigo Bar, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await you.
Duck and Cover - Cocktailbar
1.8 km
Experience exquisite cocktails in a stylish ambiance at Duck and Cover, Copenhagen's premier cocktail bar for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Gensyn Bar
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg C at Gensyn Bar, known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
1656 Cocktail Bar
2.1 km
Hidden behind an unmarked door in Vesterbro, 1656 serves inventive cocktails in a dimly lit, speakeasy-style hideaway made for slow, late-night conversations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Haven - Events
0.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Falafelberg
1.8 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
The Union
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Union, Copenhagen's premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable experience.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
2.1 km
Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Dollhouse Striptease Nightclub, where adult entertainment meets unforgettable performances.
KB3
2.1 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at KB3, a lively night club in Vesterbro offering unforgettable music and vibrant experiences.
CristalClubCopenhagen
2.2 km
Dive into Copenhagen's nightlife at Cristal Club, where upscale ambiance meets electrifying music and unforgettable experiences.
Baggen
2.2 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Baggen, where Copenhagen's nightlife comes alive with vibrant music and unforgettable experiences.
Den Anden Side
2.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
Moon Club
2.5 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
Never Mind
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Module
2.7 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub
2.8 km
Experience the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife at G*A*Y Copenhagen Nightclub, where vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere await every visitor.
Cosy Bar
2.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Temple Bar
2.9 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
