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Skjoldungestien: Denmark’s Ancient Royal Trail

Walk in the footsteps of Viking kings on Skjoldungestien, a scenic, myth-filled trail winding through ancient forests, meadows, and archaeological wonders in Lejre.

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Skjoldungestien is a scenic, 40-kilometer hiking trail threading through Lejre’s legendary landscapes, where Danish kings and Viking tales come alive under vast Nordic skies. Hiking here offers visitors a chance to explore ancient burial mounds, lush forests, wild meadows, and tranquil rivers. Rich in myth and lined with historical sites, the trail is a favorite for hikers, families, and anyone drawn to Denmark’s rural heritage.

A brief summary to Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-9 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear waterproof boots—sections can be wet or muddy, especially after rainfall.
  • Bring snacks and water, as facilities are sparse along most of the trail.
  • Look for informative plaques near burial mounds and archaeological sites for extra insight.
  • Visit the nearby Land of Legends park for a hands-on Viking experience.
  • Keep an eye out for rare birds in the wetlands during spring and autumn migrations.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Køge, board a regional train towards Roskilde and transfer at Roskilde Station to a local train bound for Lejre. The total journey is roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on connections, with clear countryside views along the way. Expect to pay about 84-104 DKK for a one-way adult ticket. From Lejre Station, the trailheads are easily accessible on foot; look for trail markers and signage near the village center.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from the center of Køge can deliver you directly to Lejre, offering the most convenient—if pricier—option. The ride typically takes 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic and costs approximately 550–700 DKK one-way. Taxis can drop you at several trail access points near Lejre's historic sites.

  • Driving/Parking

    Travelers with a car will find the drive from Køge to Lejre takes under 40 minutes, following main highways through Zealand's rural scenery. Free public parking is available near the trail’s key entry points, especially in central Lejre. Parking is generally plentiful except during major local festivals or peak summer weekends.

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Skjoldungestien, also known as the Skjoldunge Trail, weaves across Zealand’s countryside, tracing the homeland of the legendary Skjoldunger—Denmark’s semi-mythical royal dynasty. Beginning in the ancient village of Lejre, the path journeys through undulating farmland, serene forests, and marshlands that once formed the spiritual and political heart of Viking-era Denmark. The trail’s highlights include ancient tumuli and burial grounds, notably in Lejre, where legends claim the first Danish kings were laid to rest. Along the route, hikers pass scenic lakes, oak groves, and protected wetlands alive with bird calls and wildflowers in spring. The landscape itself is exceptionally evocative: broad meadows fade into wooded valleys, while occasional interpretive signs explain Viking legends and archaeological finds—such as the famed Lejre Ring Fortress ruins. Skjoldungestien is designed for day hikes or multi-day treks, with several access points, picnic areas, and opportunities to visit nearby attractions including the open-air Land of Legends historical park and Lejre Museum. While sections near Lejre are popular with day-trippers and families, other stretches feel wonderfully remote, perfect for quiet contemplation or birdwatching. The peaceful, uncommercial character of the route sets it apart from urban parks—here, you’ll share the view with sheep grazing in the fields and the wind rustling through ancient forests. No entry fee is required, and the trail is open year-round, though sturdy footwear is recommended due to muddy stretches after rain. In autumn, the landscape glows with color, while in summer the meadows are lush and vibrant. Local folklore, stunning vistas, and a sense of walking in the footsteps of Denmark’s earliest kings make Skjoldungestien a uniquely atmospheric destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a window into the country’s legendary past.

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