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Himmelbjerget

Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.

4.4

Denmark's highest point at 147 meters, Himmelbjerget rises dramatically from the shores of Julsø between Ry and Silkeborg. A 25-meter observation tower crowns the summit, offering panoramic views across the lake and surrounding valleys. The site combines natural beauty with accessible hiking trails, family amenities, and the option to arrive by historic paddle steamer, making it one of Denmark's most iconic destinations.

A brief summary to Himmelbjerget rutebåd

  • Julsøvej 16, Ry, 8680, DK
  • +4586820766
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit during May through September for the best weather and most frequent boat departures. The tower operates daily during these months, and the natural surroundings are at their most vibrant.
  • Arrive by historic paddle steamer for an authentic experience—the 50-minute journey from Ry through Birksø is as memorable as the destination itself, with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Purchase a traditional Himmelbjerg hiking stick at the summit kiosks—a cherished souvenir that connects you to generations of visitors who have made the same pilgrimage.
  • Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Ry and Silkeborg, including Øm Monastery Museum, Gl. Rye Mill, and the scenic Silkeborg-Aarhus hiking trail for a comprehensive regional experience.
  • Arrive early in the day to avoid peak crowds and secure parking. The site is most peaceful in morning hours, offering better photography conditions and a more contemplative experience.
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Getting There

  • Historic Paddle Steamer from Ry

    Depart from Ry Harbor aboard a historic vessel operated by Hjejleselskabet. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes each way, sailing through Birksø with abundant wildlife viewing. Boats operate daily during May through September, with reduced schedules in spring and autumn. The boat lands at a pier in Laven, from which the 1.2-kilometer trail ascends to the tower. Ticket prices range from approximately 80–120 Danish kroner per adult for standard sailings, with family packages available. This is the classic and most atmospheric approach.

  • Historic Paddle Steamer from Silkeborg

    Depart from Silkeborg Harbor for a longer cruise lasting approximately 75 minutes each way. Multiple landing stages allow passengers to disembark at intermediate points along the route. Daily departures operate May through September, with special event sailings throughout the season. Standard ticket prices range from approximately 100–150 Danish kroner per adult. This route offers more extensive lake scenery and flexibility to explore multiple stops.

  • Bus Service from Ry or Silkeborg

    Bus number 311 operates from both Ry and Silkeborg, stopping near the parking area at Himmelbjerggården (P2). Journey time is approximately 15–20 minutes from either town. Buses run regularly during summer months and on weekends year-round. Fares are approximately 25–40 Danish kroner per journey. From the bus stop, a short walk leads to the parking area and trailhead.

  • Private Vehicle with Parking

    Drive via Himmelbjergvej from either Ry or Silkeborg, following directional signs. From Silkeborg, travel south toward Rodelund; from the Aarhus-Silkeborg highway, follow signs toward Ry. Large parking areas (P1 and P2) operate year-round. Parking costs 15 Danish kroner for the first hour, 13 kroner for the second hour, then 10 kroner per additional hour, payable at automated machines. From the parking area, the stroller-friendly trail to the tower takes approximately 20–30 minutes.

Himmelbjerget rutebåd location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Any Weather

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Discover more about Himmelbjerget rutebåd

A Glacial Monument Shaped by Ancient Ice

Himmelbjerget stands as Denmark's highest point at 147 meters, a dramatic ridge rising from the tranquil waters of Julsø. The hill was sculpted thousands of years ago during the last ice age, when glacial forces pushed earth away from this location and created the lake basin below. The name itself—meaning "Heaven's Mountain"—reflects the awe it has inspired for centuries. Today, the landscape remains largely unchanged, a testament to the geological forces that shaped Jutland's distinctive topography.

The Historic Tower and Its Symbolic Significance

Since 1875, a 25-meter observation tower has crowned Himmelbjerget's summit. Originally constructed as a memorial to King Christian VII and in honor of the Danish Constitution, the tower has become an inseparable symbol of the site. From its top, visitors enjoy sweeping panoramic views across Julsø and the surrounding valleys, with visibility extending across multiple lakes and the rolling countryside. The tower remains open seasonally, welcoming thousands of visitors each year who climb its stairs to experience Denmark's most celebrated vista.

The Classic Journey by Historic Paddle Steamer

Since 1861, the Hjejleselskabet shipping company has operated a fleet of nine historic vessels on the Silkeborg Lakes, with Himmelbjerget as their primary destination. The flagship S/S Hjejlen, a coal-fired paddle steamer built in 1861, remains the world's oldest operating original paddle steamer and offers an unmatched experience. Sailings depart from both Ry and Silkeborg harbors, with the journey from Ry taking approximately 50 minutes through Birksø, passing abundant wildlife and bird populations. From Silkeborg, the voyage extends to 75 minutes, allowing passengers to disembark at multiple landing stages along the route. The boats carry post flags, continuing a tradition of delivering mail to remote locations.

Accessible Trails and Family-Friendly Facilities

From the lake shore, a well-maintained 1.2-kilometer trail winds through the Lyngbakker hills to the tower, suitable for families and those with moderate fitness levels. A stroller-friendly path provides access for young children, while multiple natural play areas and forest playgrounds serve families with small children. At the summit and surrounding areas, visitors find kiosks selling traditional Himmelbjerg hiking sticks—a custom dating back generations—along with ice cream, food, and beverages. Picnic areas allow visitors to bring their own provisions and enjoy meals with lake views.

Gateway to the Søhøjlandet Region

Himmelbjerget anchors the Søhøjlandet (Lake Highland) region, one of Denmark's most scenic areas. The site connects to extensive hiking networks, including the 64-kilometer Silkeborg-to-Aarhus trail that passes through Slåensø and continues to Skanderborg. Canoe rentals operate throughout Ry and Silkeborg, allowing visitors to explore the interconnected lake system. The surrounding towns of Ry and Silkeborg offer museums, cafés, shops, and cultural attractions, making Himmelbjerget an ideal base for multi-day exploration of central Jutland's natural and cultural heritage.

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