Mågeøen, Horsens Fjord

A small gull island and tidal shallows at the edge of Horsens, offering open fjord views, seabirds and quiet, low‑key contact with the coastal landscape.

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Mågeøen

Mågeøen is a small, low-lying island and coastal shallows just off Østre Kirkevej on the eastern side of Horsens. More a natural reef and bird islet than a classic excursion island, it forms part of the sheltered inner Horsens Fjord landscape, with shallow waters, seaweed beds and shifting sandbars that attract sea trout, seabirds and other coastal wildlife. This is a quiet, wind-swept spot best suited to nature-minded walkers and anglers who enjoy open skies, tidal views and the feeling of standing at the edge of land where town quickly gives way to sea.

A brief summary to Mågeøen

Østre Kirkevej 2, Horsens, 8700, DK
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 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

Wear waterproof or sturdy shoes; the shoreline can be soft, uneven and muddy, especially after rain or at high tide.
Bring binoculars to make the most of the birdlife and distant views across Horsens Fjord.
Pack an extra windproof layer, as the site is very exposed and can feel significantly cooler than the town.
If you plan to fish, check local regulations in advance and respect seasonal protections for sea trout and other species.

Getting There

Local bus from Horsens city centre

From central Horsens you can use a local city bus heading toward the eastern districts near Østre Kirkevej; the ride typically takes around 10–20 minutes depending on route and traffic. A single ticket within Horsens usually costs about 20–30 DKK. Services run regularly during the day but may be less frequent in the evening and on weekends, so it is worth checking the timetable in advance.
Cycling from central Horsens

Cycling from the city centre to the area around Mågeøen is a straightforward option and usually takes 15–25 minutes at an easy pace. The route uses ordinary urban streets with some gentle gradients and is suitable for most cyclists comfortable with light traffic. There is no dedicated cycle parking at the water’s edge, so bring a lock and be prepared to leave the bike at a suitable spot near Østre Kirkevej.
Taxi within Horsens

A taxi from central Horsens to Østre Kirkevej near Mågeøen generally takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares within town are commonly in the range of 120–200 DKK for a one‑way journey. This is the most convenient choice if you are travelling with fishing gear, have limited mobility, or are visiting outside normal bus hours.

Mågeøen location weather suitability

Clear Skies
Windy Conditions
Mild Temperatures
Cold Weather
Hot Weather

Discover more about Mågeøen

A quiet fringe of Horsens where land meets fjord

Mågeøen sits just off the shoreline at Østre Kirkevej, on the outer edge of Horsens before the town gives way to open fjord. From the grassy bank you look out over wide, shallow water, a scatter of stones and a low sand and shingle rise that appears and disappears with the tide. It feels far more remote than its address suggests, with big Jutland skies and the soft hiss of waves replacing city sounds. The islet itself is small and fragile, more a natural sandbank than a place to explore on foot. Its low profile and constant exposure to wind and water make it an ever‑changing feature, shaped season by season by currents in Horsens Fjord. Standing on the nearby shore, you get a clear sense of this dynamic landscape: eelgrass sways below the surface, and wading birds pick over the shallows for food.

Birdlife and the origins of the name

The name Mågeøen – literally “the gull island” – hints at the site’s role as a favored resting and feeding area for coastal birds. At different times of year, black‑headed gulls, terns and waders gather on the exposed banks and stones, using the islet as a safe midpoint between the open fjord and the busier urban harbor further in. This is not a formal bird reserve, but its low human impact and shallow, food‑rich waters make it an appealing stopover. With a simple pair of binoculars you can spend unhurried time watching the constant movement over the water: gulls squabbling over shellfish, cormorants drying their wings on protruding rocks, and the occasional heron or egret stalking the shoreline. It is a subtle sort of wildlife experience, more about patient observation than dramatic spectacles.

An understated spot for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts

The gently shelving seabed and mix of sand, stones and seaweed around Mågeøen create attractive conditions for coastal sea‑trout fishing along parts of Horsens Fjord. Local anglers often value similar spots for wading and spinning, especially in the cooler months when fish cruise close to shore. Even if you are not casting a line, the sight of anglers spaced out along the bank adds to the sense of being in a lived‑in, working fjord landscape. The approach along Østre Kirkevej is straightforward, and once at the water’s edge you can wander the narrow strip of shore, watching how light changes over the fjord. There are no built‑up promenades or beaches here; it feels informal and slightly wild, a contrast to the more developed waterfront closer to central Horsens.

Seasons, light and the changing mood of the fjord

Mågeøen’s character shifts markedly with weather and season. On clear spring days, the water takes on a bright, glassy blue and distant farms and fields around the fjord stand out crisply on the horizon. In summer, long evenings bathe the shallows in warm light, ideal for a quiet stroll or simply sitting on the grass as the last birds settle. Autumn and winter reveal a starker, more atmospheric side. Low clouds and wind can whip whitecaps across the fjord, and the muted palette of greys, browns and greens gives the scene a rugged beauty. Because the site is exposed, wind and chill factor can be significant, but for many that rawness is part of the appeal: a reminder that Horsens is, at heart, a fjord town closely tied to the sea.

Practical expectations and who will enjoy it

Facilities at Mågeøen are minimal. There are no kiosks, changing rooms or formal picnic lawns, and seating is limited to whatever natural spots you find along the bank. This simplicity keeps the focus firmly on the fjord itself – the light, the birds, the gentle movement of tides – and on low‑key recreation such as walking, photography and quiet contemplation. The location suits travelers who enjoy small, authentic corners of a destination rather than major set‑piece sights. It works well as a short detour during a day in Horsens, a place to pause with a thermos of coffee, stretch your legs, keep an eye on the water for fish breaking the surface and listen to gull calls carrying across the fjord.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Bilka Horsens

14.4 km

Experience the rich theatrical heritage of Odense at the historic Comediehuus, a cultural landmark since its inception.

Horsens Tourist Information Centre

15.9 km

Experience the heart of Danish comedy at Odense Comediehuus, where culture and laughter unite in the vibrant city center.

Jættestuen grønhøj

18.7 km

5.000 år gammel jættestue midt i det østjyske kulturlandskab – et stille møde mellem bondestenalderens stenkonstruktioner, skov, marker og Bygholm Sø.

Årtusindeskifte Eg

20.0 km

An ancient oak rooted in Horsens' heart, where nature and urban life converge in timeless harmony.

Ejerbavnehøj MØDESTED

21.5 km

Denmark's third-highest peak crowned by a 1924 monument to national reunification, offering panoramic views and historic significance.

Genforeningssten på Ejer Bavnehøj

23.0 km

Denmark's third-highest point crowned with a monumental 1920 reunification memorial and iconic tower.

Ejer Bavnehøj

23.0 km

A modest Danish hill with a mighty horizon, Ejer Bavnehøj blends reunification history, beacon legends and big-sky views into an easy, rewarding countryside stop.

Det gamle vandtårn

27.4 km

Skanderborg's 41.5-meter castle-style water tower from 1908—a striking symbol of industrial heritage and urban progress.

Ilsemade Helligkilde

28.4 km

A Bronze Age sacred spring where fresh water flows from an ancient hollow oak, connecting modern visitors to 3,000 years of spiritual tradition.

Samsø Sogn

32.2 km

A modest whitewashed parish in Tranebjerg where Samsø’s island history, everyday rituals and quiet faith meet along bustling Langgade.

Hotel Vadstrup1771

32.3 km

Experience the tranquil charm of Hotel Vadstrup1771, a perfect retreat in the heart of Samsø, blending comfort with local culinary delights.

Restaurant Mårup Havn

32.5 km

Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning harbor views at Restaurant Mårup Havn, a culinary gem on the scenic island of Samsø, Denmark.

Mindesten - Morten Madsen

32.9 km

A modest memorial stone set in Samsø’s quiet countryside, offering a brief, reflective pause amid open fields, island sky and centuries of local history.

Oasen Samsø

33.6 km

Discover tranquility and island charm at Oasen Samsø, a unique retreat offering comfortable accommodations, natural beauty, and a rich cultural experience on Denmark's sustainable island.

Fredericia Vold

34.3 km

Northern Europe's best-preserved fortress ramparts, where 370 years of Danish military history meets urban parkland.

Unmissable attractions to see

Mågebroen

0.1 km

Langelinieanlægget: a tranquil lakeside park in Horsens offering picturesque walks, vibrant gardens, playgrounds, and local culture in a lush urban oasis.

Borre Knob

3.7 km

Fjordside conference hotel and event retreat on a narrow peninsula in Horsens Fjord, where bright meeting rooms meet long sandy beaches and calm coastal nature.

Løkkeskoven

10.1 km

A small, quiet forest at the edge of Horsens, Løkkeskoven offers easy walks, local birdsong and soft woodland light just steps from the houses of Stensballe.

Boller Slot

11.2 km

Moated Renaissance manor by Horsens Fjord, surrounded by a tranquil castle park where historic brick walls, water and woodland create a quietly atmospheric escape.

Fingerhav - Badebro

11.4 km

Slim finger of land and bathing jetty reaching into Horsens Fjord, offering easy wild-style swimming, open water views and a quiet pause between town and forest.

Besøgshave - Den Kreative Have

12.0 km

A lovingly crafted Japanese-inspired show garden in rural Jutland, where water, topiary and quiet corners create a serene escape just outside Horsens.

Strandparken Horsens

12.3 km

Quiet lawns, fjord views and everyday life along Horsens’ waterfront, Strandparken is a simple, local-feeling green escape just moments from the city streets.

Langelinieanlægget

13.0 km

Horsens' beloved waterfront park where sandy beaches, summer culture, and fjord views create the perfect urban escape.

Horsens Marina

13.1 km

Atmospheric fjord‑end marina blending red fishing sheds, modern yacht facilities and easy city access on the waterfront edge of Horsens.

Madpakkehuset, Tyrstedlund Naturpark

13.2 km

Small wooden picnic cabin and outdoor classroom nestled in Horsens’ Tyrstedlund Naturpark, surrounded by meadows, pond and biodiversity-rich habitats.

Tyrstedlund Naturpark

13.3 km

A living biodiversity laboratory on Horsens’ southern edge, where meadows, forest fringe, wildlife pond and forest garden turn an everyday walk into a quiet lesson in nature.

North Beach

13.7 km

Semi-wild shoreline, big skies and rich birdlife make North Beach at Nørrestrand Horsens’ quietly scenic escape for walks, simple swims and unhurried nature time.

Fugletårn

13.8 km

Simple wooden birdwatching tower with wide views over Horsens’ Nørrestrand wetland reserve, perfect for peaceful bird spotting, sky-watching and quiet nature breaks.

Wanna Be Mermaid

13.9 km

A bold, contemporary mermaid by Maria Rubinke on Horsens’ harbourfront, blending fairytale symbolism, waterfront scenery and modern public art in one quick stop.

Horsens Museum

13.9 km

Intimate local-history museum in a 1915 park-side villa, tracing 10,000 years of Horsens life from prehistoric graves and merchants’ mansions to war, industry and exploration.

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Møllegården på Alrø

4.1 km

Classic Danish comfort food served in a restored pig stable on the island of Alrø, blending rural charm, seasonal menus and relaxed countryside atmosphere.

Restaurant Bossen Og Bumsen

12.9 km

Hearty grill classics, generous portions and nostalgic Danish charm at a quirky local institution on Sundvej near the Horsens waterfront.

UNDA

13.9 km

Harbourfront restaurant and lounge in Horsens, where bold design, soft acoustics and harbour views create an all‑day setting from brunch to late‑night cocktails.

Dollys

13.9 km

Harbourfront, family-run Danish restaurant in Horsens serving hearty classics, generous portions and cosy marina views at a comfortable, mid-range price.

Café Ella

14.1 km

Light-filled museum café in Horsens pairing seasonal local lunches and an award-winning bøfsandwich with leafy views over Lunden park and contemporary art.

Restaurante Venezia

14.3 km

Authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, welcoming Horsens setting.

Restaurant Munken

14.4 km

Candlelit Danish comfort and seasonal cooking in a cosy Horsens dining room, where classic flavours, warm service and unhurried evenings define the experience.

Great sushi

14.4 km

Premium all-you-can-eat sushi with theatrical presentation and authentic Japanese technique in central Horsens.

Restaurant Flammen - Horsens

14.4 km

Big-hearted grill buffet in a cosy, antique-filled setting, serving all‑you‑can‑eat meats, hot dishes and salads for relaxed, social evenings in Horsens.

Bone's Horsens

14.5 km

Lively American-style family restaurant in central Horsens, serving BBQ ribs, steaks, burgers and all-you-can-eat sides in a cosy, memorabilia-filled saloon setting.

Corfitz restaurant - bar

14.8 km

Casual city‑centre café, restaurant and bar on Horsens’ main pedestrian street, serving hearty comfort food, drinks and all‑day people‑watching on Søndergade.

Restaurant Eydes

14.8 km

Historic cellar dining where Danish-French cuisine meets centuries of local tradition.

Cafe Vivaldi

14.8 km

Casual brasserie-style café on Horsens’ busy Søndergade, serving comfort food, coffee and drinks all day in a warm, modern setting with street-side seating.

Det Ny Kronborg

14.9 km

Traditional Danish restaurant and banquet hall in a quiet Horsens street, combining white-tablecloth charm, hearty cooking and a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.

Hien's Vietnamesisk Køkken

14.9 km

Cozy Vietnamese kitchen in central Horsens, serving fresh rolls, bánh mì, noodles and signature house specialties in a relaxed, everyday-friendly setting.

Central Horsens womenswear store blending denim heritage, fast-changing trends and affordable Scandinavian style on lively pedestrian Søndergade.

Relaxed pool and sports bar in central Horsens, blending cue sports, big-screen matches, board games, casual bites and easygoing drinks in one social hangout.

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Mågeøen, Horsens Fjord

A brief summary to Mågeøen

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Local bus from Horsens city centre

Cycling from central Horsens

Taxi within Horsens

Mågeøen location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Mågeøen

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Mågeøen

A quiet fringe of Horsens where land meets fjord

Birdlife and the origins of the name

An understated spot for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts

Seasons, light and the changing mood of the fjord

Practical expectations and who will enjoy it

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Bilka Horsens

Horsens Tourist Information Centre

Jættestuen grønhøj

Årtusindeskifte Eg

Ejerbavnehøj MØDESTED

Genforeningssten på Ejer Bavnehøj

Ejer Bavnehøj

Det gamle vandtårn

Ilsemade Helligkilde

Samsø Sogn

Hotel Vadstrup1771

Restaurant Mårup Havn

Mindesten - Morten Madsen

Oasen Samsø

Fredericia Vold

Unmissable attractions to see

Mågebroen

Borre Knob

Løkkeskoven

Boller Slot

Fingerhav - Badebro

Besøgshave - Den Kreative Have

Strandparken Horsens

Langelinieanlægget

Horsens Marina

Madpakkehuset, Tyrstedlund Naturpark

Tyrstedlund Naturpark

North Beach

Fugletårn

Wanna Be Mermaid

Horsens Museum

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Møllegården på Alrø

Restaurant Bossen Og Bumsen

UNDA

Dollys

Café Ella

Restaurante Venezia

Restaurant Munken

Great sushi

Restaurant Flammen - Horsens

Bone's Horsens

Corfitz restaurant - bar

Restaurant Eydes

Cafe Vivaldi

Det Ny Kronborg

Hien's Vietnamesisk Køkken

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Brainchild

Kjærs Magasiner

The & Idé ApS

Italian Vinimport Dk A / S

Bog & idé Horsens

Hviid

Tøjbutikker

JACK & JONES

Seeds

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