Himmelbjerget: Denmark's Iconic Sky Mountain
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Himmelbjerget, Denmark's iconic Sky Mountain in the heart of the Lake District, offering hiking, boat trips, and cultural experiences.
Himmelbjerget, or 'Sky Mountain,' is a beloved natural landmark in the heart of Denmark's Lake District. Though modest in height at 147 meters, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, forests, and rolling hills. A popular destination since the 19th century, Himmelbjerget is steeped in history and national romanticism. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy boat trips on the adjacent Lake Julsø, and climb the iconic Himmelbjerg Tower, erected in 1875 as a tribute to King Frederik VII and his role in establishing the Danish constitution. The area also hosts cultural events and boasts souvenir shops, a hotel, and a playground, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Himmelbjerget promises an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Bestig Himmelbjerget
- Himmelbjergvej 22, Ry, 8680, DK
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the trails can be steep and uneven.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit while taking in the panoramic views.
- Check the opening hours of the Himmelbjerg Tower before your visit, as it is not open year-round.
- Consider taking a boat trip on Lake Julsø for a unique perspective of Himmelbjerget and the surrounding landscape.
Getting There
-
Driving
If driving from Ry, follow Himmelbjergvej (Road 445) directly towards Himmelbjerget. The drive is approximately 7 km and takes about 10-15 minutes. Parking is available in several designated parking areas near the entrance to Himmelbjerget. Parking fees apply and can be paid via the Apcoa Flow app. Expect to pay around 15 DKK for the first hour, 13 DKK for the second, and 10 DKK for each subsequent hour. Parking payment machines are available, but cash is no longer accepted.
-
Public Transport
From Ry Station, take Bus 314 towards Silkeborg. Get off at the 'Himmelbjerget' bus stop. From the bus stop, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk (around 1.2 km) to the top of Himmelbjerget. A single bus fare costs approximately 24 DKK. Alternatively, from Ry you can take bus 313 to Gl. Rye and walk approximately 4 km to Himmelbjerget.
-
Walking
From Ry, follow the marked hiking trails towards Himmelbjerget. The most direct route is approximately 7 km and takes around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. The trails are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Be prepared for some uphill sections. Alternatively, take the boat Hjejlen from Ry harbor to the bottom of Himmelbjerget. From there it is a 1.2 km hike to the top.
Discover more about Bestig Himmelbjerget
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bestig Himmelbjerget
0.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Himmelbjerget, Denmark's iconic Sky Mountain in the heart of the Lake District, offering hiking, boat trips, and cultural experiences.
Himmelbjergtårnet
0.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Himmelbjerget Tower, an iconic landmark in Denmark's scenic Lake District, offering hiking, boat trips, and cultural experiences.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
0.8 km
Experience a classic Danish adventure with Himmelbjerget Rutebåd: Cruise through stunning landscapes, explore historic sites, and discover the beauty of the Lake District. A timeless journey awaits!
De Små Fisk
7.7 km
Discover De Små Fisk near Silkeborg: a serene lakeside escape with a child-friendly beach, scenic trails, and primitive camping, perfect for nature lovers and families seeking outdoor adventures.
Mossø
9.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mossø, Denmark's third-largest lake, offering hiking, watersports, and historical sites in the heart of the Danish Lake District.
Silkeborg Water Tower
11.0 km
Byparkens Legeplads blends adventurous playground fun with scenic parkland views, making it Roskilde’s top family-friendly green-space escape beside the historic center.
Landal Søhøjlandet
13.1 km
Escape to Landal Søhøjlandet in Denmark's Lake District: Family fun, water park thrills, outdoor adventures, and tranquil nature await in this scenic holiday paradise near Silkeborg.
Yding Skovhøj
13.4 km
Discover Yding Skovhøj, one of Denmark's highest points, offering scenic hiking trails, ancient burial mounds, and panoramic views in the heart of Jutland's beautiful lake district.
Møllehøj, DK's highest hill
16.4 km
Discover Denmark's highest natural point: Møllehøj, a serene landscape offering gentle walks, historical insights, and panoramic views of the rolling Jutland countryside.
Ejer Bavnehøj
16.6 km
Discover Denmark's historical high point: Ejer Bavnehøj offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Danish heritage, crowned by the iconic Reunification Tower.
Slaggård Banke
17.2 km
Discover Slaggård Banke: Explore ancient burial mounds, enjoy panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Danish countryside near Østbirk.
Bølling Lake
20.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Bølling Lake in central Jutland, a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and history enthusiasts seeking a serene escape.
Jutland
23.3 km
Discover Jutland, Denmark: Explore Viking history, stunning nature, and family fun on the mainland peninsula, offering an authentic Danish experience.
Jættestuen grønhøj
26.5 km
Explore Jættestuen Grønhøj, a remarkably preserved Stone Age passage grave near Horsens, Denmark, offering a unique glimpse into prehistoric burial rituals and ancient craftsmanship.
Horsens Tourist Information Centre
27.1 km
Experience the heart of Danish comedy at Odense Comediehuus, where culture and laughter unite in the vibrant city center.
Unmissable attractions to see
Himmelbjerget
0.3 km
Historic Sletterhage Lighthouse offers panoramic sea views, maritime history exhibits, and wild coastal scenery at the southern tip of Mols Bjerge National Park.
Turbådene Himmelbjerget
0.8 km
Board a vintage steamer with Turbådene Himmelbjerget and cruise the idyllic Silkeborg lakes, reaching Denmark’s legendary hill by water for a unique heritage experience.
Gammelkol
2.5 km
Kongestolen offers stunning hilltop vistas, deep forests, and echoes of Silkeborg’s legendary past—a tranquil vantage over Denmark’s lake district landscape.
Ry havn
4.3 km
Discover Himmelbjerget: A blend of Danish history, mythology, and stunning natural beauty.
Høgdal
4.4 km
Step into living history at Høgdal—a captivating, authentic Danish farmstead museum near Them, where rural traditions, crafts, and community life come to life all year round.
Kongestolen
5.0 km
A legendary rocky lookout amid Silkeborg’s woodlands, Kongestolen offers panoramic lake district views, tranquil forest trails, and a taste of Danish folklore.
Øm Klostermuseum
6.9 km
Discover rural Danish heritage at Mølholmgård Merchant Museum, where historic trade and country life come alive near picturesque Møllehøj.
Labyrinthia
6.9 km
A majestic lighthouse atop wild dunes, Lyngvig offers breathtaking North Sea panoramas, maritime history, and family-friendly experiences by Denmark’s windswept west coast.
Abbey Mill
7.1 km
Explore Råbjerg Mile, Northern Europe's largest migrating sand dune near Skagen – a stunning natural spectacle blending desert landscapes with North Jutland's wild beauty.
Shelterplads
7.1 km
Experience Silkeborg’s peaceful side at Shelterplads—a tranquil woodland campsite near lakes, perfect for outdoor adventurers, families, and seekers of Danish nature.
Ulvehoved
8.6 km
One of Denmark’s foremost modern art galleries, Galerie Moderne Silkeborg delights visitors with ever-changing exhibitions in a bright, inviting central location.
Duedal Bjerg
8.7 km
Experience historic steam boat journeys on Julsø and Silkeborg lakes, arriving at Denmark’s Himmelbjerget, surrounded by scenery and nostalgia.
Befrielsessten i Resenbro
9.1 km
A leading Danish contemporary art gallery in Silkeborg, Galerie Moderne offers rotating exhibitions by top Scandinavian and international artists in a striking modernist space.
Aboretet Silkeborg
9.2 km
Discover contemporary Danish and international art in a historic gallery space at the heart of Silkeborg—an essential stop for creatives and culture seekers.
Birkehøj Silkeborg
9.2 km
Board historic steamers across the Silkeborg Lakes to Himmelbjerget—an iconic Danish tradition offering scenic cruises, nature views, and a touch of local heritage.
Essential places to dine
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
0.1 km
Hilltop eatery near Møllehøj offering Danish classics, sweeping lake views, and cozy atmosphere for hikers and sightseers exploring Denmark's highest points.
Café Himmelsk
0.8 km
Discover Café Himmelsk in Ry: A serene café offering delicious food and drinks amidst Denmark's stunning landscapes.
Lyng Dal Hotel og Restaurant
3.2 km
Award-winning Danish cuisine and peaceful hospitality await at Lyng Dal Hotel og Restaurant, a culinary gem in Ry near the Lake Highlands of Central Jutland.
Restaurant Aalekroen
4.0 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine amidst the scenic beauty of Julsø at Silkeborg's historic Restaurant Aalekroen.
Traktørstedet Ludvigslyst
4.2 km
Lakeside dining steeped in Danish tradition, offering local flavors, forests and Julsø views, near Himmelbjerget and the heart of Silkeborg’s natural beauty.
Byens Kylling & Pizza Ry
4.6 km
Experience authentic Danish flavors at Byens Kylling & Pizza Ry, where succulent chicken meets artisanal pizza in a cozy setting.
Umisushi
4.7 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Umisushi in Ry - where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Restaurant Gastronomisk Institut
6.1 km
Experience innovative Danish cuisine at Restaurant Gastronomisk Institut in Ry - where local flavors meet culinary excellence.
Knudhule Badehotel og Gastronomisk Institut
6.1 km
Experience lakeside tranquility, fine Danish gastronomy, and cozy accommodation just moments from the famed Himmelbjerget, in the heart of central Jutland.
Restaurant Karoline Amalie v/Rikke Brockstedt
8.9 km
Experience exquisite Danish cuisine at Restaurant Karoline Amalie in Silkeborg – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Resturant indelukket
10.0 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Denmark at Restaurant Indelukket in Silkeborg – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Orangeriet
10.0 km
A destination dining experience in Silkeborg’s woodland fringe, Orangeriet fuses seasonal Danish cuisine, glasshouse elegance, and forest views into a memorable gourmet journey.
Svejstrup Præstegård
10.0 km
Discover authentic Danish cuisine at Svejstrup Præstegård in Skanderborg—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Gl. Skovridergaard
10.1 km
Historic estate hotel and gourmet restaurant set in tranquil parkland beside Silkeborg’s forests, offering Danish hospitality, fine dining, and serene nature escapes.
Skovbakken Silkeborg
10.8 km
Experience historic Danish cuisine amidst Silkeborg's natural beauty at Skovbakken.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bjerghytten
0.0 km
Bjerghytten: Savor Ice Cream Delights Amidst Himmelbjerget's Scenic Beauty
Bjerg-kiosken
0.1 km
Traditional Danish snack stand beside the summit of Himmelbjerget, serving refreshments and local favorites to hikers amidst scenic Jutland landscapes.
Ørneboden
0.1 km
Quaint souvenir shop at the heart of Himmelbjerget, offering local crafts, Danish mementos, and family-friendly gifts in a scenic lakeside setting.
Leather by Corium
11.1 km
Discover timeless Danish leather craftsmanship at Leather by Corium in Silkeborg's historic Papirfabrikken district.
SHOPPE LOPPE
12.9 km
Immerse yourself in Danish vintage culture at SHOPPE LOPPE—Silkeborg’s vibrant indoor flea market for antiques, retro finds, collectibles, and sustainable shopping.
Møllehøj
16.4 km
Stand at Denmark’s highest natural point atop Møllehøj, where serene countryside views, gentle slopes, and a piece of national pride await near Skanderborg.
Møllehjulet
16.6 km
Friendly rural kiosk at Denmark’s highest natural point, Møllehøj, serving refreshments and local history in the heart of the scenic Ejer Bjerge highlands.
Ville vintage
16.9 km
Discover timeless treasures and unique vintage finds at Ville Vintage in Skanderborg.
نثنثنبنب
21.2 km
Denmark's largest outlet center offering 30-70% discounts on top brands near Copenhagen.
Bryghus Horsens A/S
28.6 km
Explore Horsens' rich brewing heritage through its vibrant beer culture and historical landmarks.
Kjærs Magasiner
28.7 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and contemporary art in the heart of Horsens at Kjærs Magasiner.
bytorvHORSENS
28.7 km
Step into the modern shopping and social centre of Horsens, offering diverse stores, lively eateries, and community charm in the city’s vibrant pedestrian heart.
Tøjbutikker
28.7 km
Discover the vibrant shopping and cultural hub of Søndergade in Horsens, featuring over 150 diverse shops and lively events.
Buttercups
29.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted costume jewelry at Buttercups in Horsens, Denmark.
Luna Hvid
31.9 km
Discover handcrafted elegance at Luna Hvid, Aarhus' premier hat boutique in the historic Latin Quarter.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Vinya
4.5 km
Chic wine bar and tapas lounge in Ry, offering curated wines, local bites, and cozy ambiance—perfect for unwinding after your Himmelbjerget adventure.
Bodega Hjørnet
10.8 km
Experience genuine Danish bodega culture with affordable drinks, a relaxed vibe, darts, and local camaraderie in a welcoming Silkeborg institution open late.
Café Kling Klang
11.1 km
Experience the charm of Café Kling Klang in Silkeborg's heart, offering diverse menus and a cozy ambiance.
Sportspubben Målet
11.2 km
Sportspubben Målet is Silkeborg's go-to destination for sports fans and social seekers, offering affordable drinks, live matches, and classic Danish pub charm.
Roxy Malt
11.2 km
Experience Silkeborg’s vibrant nightlife at Roxy Malt, an inviting city-center bar famed for its characterful atmosphere, local brews, and friendly social scene.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
11.2 km
A buzzing craft beer bar in Silkeborg’s heart, offering diverse brews on tap, lively local energy, and regular events—a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
VIVI Mad- & Vinbar
11.2 km
Stylish wine bar in Silkeborg city center, offering curated wines, modern Danish cuisine, and a vibrant local ambiance in chic yet welcoming surroundings.
Rabalder Bar
11.3 km
Experience Silkeborg's vibrant nightlife at Rabalder Bar, featuring live music, signature cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bifrost Sports Pub
11.3 km
Experience the thrill of live sports and vibrant nightlife at Bifrost Sports Pub in Silkeborg.
Kaffebaren
11.3 km
Experience the essence of Danish 'hygge' at Kaffebaren, Silkeborg's premier destination for coffee aficionados.
Woodys Aps
12.9 km
Experience the warm ambiance and diverse drinks at Woodys Aps, a central bar in Silkeborg.
Kristinesminde
15.9 km
Experience the charm of Kristinesminde, Fårvang's cozy bar offering exquisite local ciders and warm Danish hospitality.
The Long Field Road
27.9 km
Experience the heart of AC Horsens' fan culture at The Long Field Road, the club's official Irish-inspired pub.
Værtshuse
28.2 km
Experience the charm of Horsens' historic pub, Spinderokken, offering traditional drinks, games, and a warm atmosphere since 1893.
Stalden
28.4 km
Stalden blends friendly local charm with billiards, darts, and sports broadcasts in the vibrant heart of Horsens, making it a favorite spot for authentic Danish bar culture.
