Himmelbjerget
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
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
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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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
0.0 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
0.6 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Lovisehøj
7.6 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Water Tower
10.5 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
10.6 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Randershøj
10.8 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
11.2 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo
11.4 km
A colossal wooden troll crafted from recycled materials—where art, nature, and Nordic folklore converge near Silkeborg's serene lake.
Silkeborg Rovfugleshow
11.6 km
Experience the thrill of birds of prey in action at Silkeborg Rovfugleshow, a captivating nature preserve offering breathtaking aerial displays and educational insights into the avian world.
Store Troldhøj
11.9 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Landal Søhøjlandet
12.3 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.
Funder Ruin
13.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modern life at Stændertorvet, Roskilde's central square.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
13.5 km
Discover Denmark's automotive history at Jutland's Automobile Museum in Gjern, showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles from the early 1900s to iconic post-war models, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's motoring heritage.
Yding Skovhøj
14.1 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.
The Uncovered Bridge
15.2 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Himmelbjerget
0.5 km
Historic Sletterhage Lighthouse offers panoramic sea views, maritime history exhibits, and wild coastal scenery at the southern tip of Mols Bjerge National Park.
Himmelbjergtårnet
0.5 km
A 25‑metre red-brick memorial crowning Himmelbjerget, offering sweeping lake-and-forest panoramas and a powerful glimpse into Denmark’s democratic story.
H.C. Andersen bench
0.7 km
Discover Råbjerg Mile, Northern Europe’s largest migrating sand dune—a stunning, ever-shifting landscape near Skagen, perfect for exploration and breathtaking views.
Bestig Himmelbjerget
0.8 km
Follow a classic forest trail from lakeshore to the summit of Denmark’s fabled Sky Mountain, combining gentle ascent, big views and layers of national history.
Dynæs voldsted
1.4 km
Quiet medieval castle mounds and deep ditches on a wooded peninsula in the Silkeborg Lakes, where earthworks, water and forest hint at a vanished stronghold.
Gammelkol
1.8 km
A modest historic site folded into Silkeborg’s forests, where quiet paths, subtle landforms and shifting light reveal the long story of Denmark’s lake country.
FDF Outdoor Center Sletten
2.6 km
Denmark's premier outdoor recreation hub where free activities, mountain biking, and nature immersion meet modern comfort.
Himmelbjergegnens Tårnhøje Tårn
3.1 km
Historic hilltop tower above Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests, blending Denmark’s constitutional story with sweeping Jutland views and atmospheric woodland paths.
Maskenkol
3.8 km
A quiet stretch of Knudsø’s northern shore, Maskenkol offers gentle lakeside walking, open views and everyday Danish nature just beyond the town of Ry.
Høgdal
4.4 km
An 18th-century hilltop farm near Silkeborg, preserved as a living window into Danish rural life amid the soft landscapes of the Søhøjlandet lake district.
Ry havn
4.6 km
Quiet lakeside marina in Ry, offering relaxed waterfront life, boat trips into the Silkeborg Lakes and easy access to the gentle hills of Denmark’s lake district.
Kongestolen
4.7 km
A compact forest summit above Slåensø, Kongestolen pairs a short, steep climb with far‑reaching lake and woodland views in the heart of the Silkeborg hills.
Kallehave bålhytte
5.1 km
A modest grill shelter tucked into the Kallehave woods near Gl. Rye, perfect for unhurried campfire cooking and a quiet break on forest hikes.
Knudhule strand
6.2 km
Blue Flag lakeside escape near Ry, offering child‑friendly swimming, gentle views over Knudsø and a relaxed, low‑key setting in the hills of Søhøjlandet.
Shelterplads
6.7 km
Back-to-basics shelter living on the edge of Silkeborg’s forests, offering free, simple overnight stays in fresh air within easy reach of trails and lakes.
Essential places to dine
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
0.7 km
Casual hilltop cafeteria at Himmelbjerget, serving classic Danish comfort food and ice cream with wide views over the Silkeborg lakes and surrounding forests.
Café Himmelsk
1.5 km
Homemade pastries and mountain views in Denmark's legendary lake district.
Restaurant Aalekroen
3.5 km
Classic Danish kro-style restaurant on the shores of Julsø, pairing hearty traditional dishes and fried eel with sweeping lakeside views near Silkeborg.
Traktørstedet Ludvigslyst
3.6 km
Organic lakeside dining in a light-filled country villa above Lake Julsø, where local ingredients, house-baked bread and garden herbs define every seasonal plate.
Lyng Dal Hotel og Restaurant
4.0 km
Intimate family-run hotel and seasonal restaurant in Ry, where garden-driven Danish cuisine, good wine and quiet countryside surroundings create a cosy Jutland escape.
Lakeside Ry - Restaurant
4.6 km
Intimate waterfront dining blending Nordic tradition with global innovation in Denmark's Lake District.
Brasseri Ry'tteriet
4.8 km
Intimate hotel brasserie in lakeside Ry, pairing French‑inspired comfort food, seasonal Danish ingredients and candlelit evening ambience in the heart of Søhøjlandet.
Ry Gastropub
4.8 km
Relaxed gastropub heart of Ry, serving comforting pub favourites, modern Danish flavours and easygoing drinks in a warm, social setting from lunch to late evening.
Hotel Ry
4.8 km
Contemporary comfort in Denmark's scenic heartland, where golf, hiking, and local gastronomy meet.
Restaurant Da Angelo
4.9 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Ry's charming lakeside town center.
Byens Kylling & Pizza Ry
4.9 km
Casual neighborhood pizza and chicken takeaway in Ry, serving hearty portions and familiar flavors for easy, budget‑friendly dinners after a day outdoors.
KobKun
4.9 km
Tiny Thai kitchen in the heart of Ry, serving fragrant curries and stir-fries in an intimate 13-seat space with a strong local takeaway following.
Umisushi
5.0 km
Neighbourhood sushi and takeaway in the lakeside town of Ry, serving fresh rolls and casual Japanese favourites in a relaxed, modern setting.
Restaurant Gastronomisk Institut
6.2 km
Seasonal Danish–French cooking, a serious wine cellar and wide lake views come together at this refined yet relaxed restaurant inside Knudhule Badehotel.
Knudhule Badehotel og Gastronomisk Institut
6.2 km
Award-winning lakeside hotel and fine dining destination in Denmark's scenic Søhøjlandet region.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ørneboden
0.7 km
Small hilltop souvenir shop on Himmelbjerget, pairing simple treats and mementos with big views over Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests above Ry.
Ugleboden
0.7 km
Casual ice cream and souvenir stall on Himmelbjerget, adding a sweet, no-frills pause to hikes and family outings in the wooded hills above Ry.
Bjerghytten
0.7 km
Bjerghytten: Savor Ice Cream Delights Amidst Himmelbjerget's Scenic Beauty
Bjerg-kiosken
0.7 km
Compact hilltop kiosk on Himmelbjerget serving ice cream, snacks and drinks to walkers and day-trippers at one of Denmark’s most iconic viewpoint areas near Ry.
Nordic Yarn - a woolly affair
2.4 km
A cosy, family-run Nordic wool shop on a Jutland farm near Ry, where Icelandic and Norwegian yarn fill the shelves and horses graze just outside.
Laven Antikvariat
2.7 km
Rare books, organic coffee, and genuine warmth in a charming village shop.
ByStenholt
3.2 km
A calm, contemporary womenswear boutique in Ry, blending Nordic style with small-town ease and serving as the local face of a modern Danish fashion webshop.
Made by Ella
3.8 km
Intimate goldsmith’s studio in Ry, where local jewelry artist Julie Ella Jappe handcrafts custom designs and contemporary pieces in a calm, small-town setting.
Dagli'Brugsen Gl. Rye
3.9 km
Community-owned supermarket where every purchase strengthens local bonds and supports sustainable living.
Rye Nørskov Gårdbutik
4.6 km
Historic farm shop in a mill building, selling wild game from estate forests with uncompromising quality and sustainability.
Hanne Linding Denmark / BUTIK No. 9 Ry
4.8 km
Intimate Ry boutique by textile artist Hanne Linding, showcasing feminine Danish knitwear, curated colors and timeless, everyday Scandinavian design.
Kandis
4.8 km
A welcoming Ry specialty shop where wine, sweets, gourmet delicacies and thoughtful gifts come together under one cosy, carefully curated roof.
Hanghøj
4.9 km
A cosy Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Ry, offering curated women’s clothing, accessories and gifts with a relaxed, personal touch.
Toft suits men & women
4.9 km
Distinctive menswear and womenswear for those who value timeless quality and personal style.
Red Cross Op Shop
4.9 km
Community-powered Danish thrift store in Ry, where low-cost second-hand finds help fund Red Cross humanitarian work and support more sustainable shopping.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Høkeren
4.8 km
Possibly Denmark’s smallest pub, Høkeren in Ry distills classic Danish tavern culture into 18 sociable square meters of wood, warmth and well‑poured drinks.
La Vinya
4.8 km
Chic wine bar and tapas lounge in Ry, offering curated wines, local bites, and cozy ambiance—perfect for unwinding after your Himmelbjerget adventure.
Ambolten Ry
5.0 km
Cosy neighborhood bar and social hub in the heart of Ry, mixing cold beers, live music and small-town charm in a laid-back, living-room atmosphere.
Dartklubben Potten
9.2 km
A classic Danish darts clubhouse in Låsby, where competitive heritage, cold drinks and small-town hygge come together around the oche.
Bakkens bodega
10.1 km
Unpretentious beer hall on Århusvej where locals, cold drafts and simple pub fare create a slice of everyday Silkeborg life from late morning to late evening.
Bodega Hjørnet
10.4 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Cafe' Paradis
10.4 km
A compact, old‑school bodega in central Silkeborg, serving cold beers, local atmosphere and late‑night conversation in an unpretentious, lived‑in bar setting.
The Admiral Pub
10.6 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
Café Kling Klang
10.6 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Pub North Cape v / Allan Hede
10.7 km
Unpretentious neighborhood pub in northern Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks, easygoing hygge and a slice of local bar life late into the evening.
Sportspubben Målet
10.7 km
A cozy, no-frills sports pub in central Silkeborg, where big screens, cold beer and local chatter turn every match day into a shared living room.
Roxy Malt
10.7 km
Irish-inspired Silkeborg pub with live music, quizzes, speciality beers and a cosy courtyard, blending retro charm with late-night energy in the town centre.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
10.7 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
10.7 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
10.8 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Scenic Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Protected Area
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly