Ølsemagle Revle

A shifting sandbar of shallow lagoons, rich birdlife and wide sandy beaches, where Køge’s urban edge gives way to one of Zealand’s most evocative coastal nature reserves.

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Ølsemagle Revle

Ølsemagle Revle is a long, low sandbar and lagoon landscape on Køge Bay, just north of Køge. Formed as a barrier island from sand and gravel deposited by wind and currents, it shelters shallow, child‑friendly waters and a chain of lagoons, dunes and salt meadows. The area is protected as a bird reserve, famed for its rich wader and waterfowl life throughout the year. With a broad sandy beach, seasonal kiosk, birdwatching tower and big open skies, it blends easy seaside relaxation with outstanding coastal nature.

A brief summary to Ølsemagle Revle

Revlen 1, Køge, 4600, DK
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 4 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

Bring binoculars or a spotting scope: the bird tower and lagoon shores offer excellent views of waders, ducks and raptors across all seasons.
If visiting with children, favour the shallow inner-side waters of the revle, where the seabed shelves very gently and waves are more sheltered.
From 1 April to 30 September dogs must be on a leash; keep to paths and avoid reed beds and fenced areas to protect nesting birds.
Pack layers and a windproof jacket outside high summer; the exposed coastline can feel significantly cooler than inland, even on sunny days.
Aim for early morning or late afternoon light if you are interested in photography; low sun over the lagoon and bay creates atmospheric scenes.

Getting There

Regional train and local bus from Copenhagen

From central Copenhagen, take a regional train towards Næstved or Nykøbing Falster and get off in Køge; the ride usually takes 35–45 minutes and typically costs about 80–110 DKK one way in standard class. From Køge Station, connect to a local bus towards the northern coastal suburbs; expect a 10–20 minute bus journey, running roughly every 30–60 minutes in daytime, with a fare around 25–30 DKK if bought separately or included in a zone ticket. From the nearest bus stop it is a short, level walk on paths to the beach and lagoon area, generally suitable for most visitors but less ideal for heavy luggage or very limited mobility, especially in wet or icy weather.
Train and bicycle from Køge

If you arrive in Køge by train, renting or bringing a bicycle is an efficient way to reach Ølsemagle Revle along local roads and designated cycle routes. The ride from central Køge typically takes 15–25 minutes at a relaxed pace on mostly flat terrain. Bike rental prices in the area are commonly in the range of 100–200 DKK per day, depending on type and season. Surfaces near the beach shift from asphalt to gravel and compacted sand, so narrow‑tyre road bikes may be less comfortable than city or trekking bikes, and strong winds along Køge Bay can make the return trip feel more demanding.
Car or taxi within the Køge region

Travellers with a car can drive from central Køge to Ølsemagle Revle in about 10–15 minutes under normal traffic conditions, following main roads north and then local access roads to signed parking areas near the beach. Public parking here is typically free or low‑cost, but spaces can fill on hot summer days, and surfaces may be gravel rather than paved. A taxi from Køge town centre usually takes a similar time and commonly costs in the region of 120–200 DKK one way depending on time of day and exact starting point. From the parking area, access to the beach and birdwatching tower is via level paths and a dam, which are generally easy but can be exposed to wind and weather.

Ølsemagle Revle location weather suitability

Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Cold Weather
Windy Conditions
Any Weather

Discover more about Ølsemagle Revle

A shifting sandbar shaping Køge Bay

Ølsemagle Revle is a striking example of how sea, wind and time can redraw a coastline. Stretching offshore in the inner part of Køge Bay, the revle began to appear about a century ago as a low shoal beneath the surface. Over decades, currents pushed broken shell, sand and gravel into a narrow ridge that gradually rose above the water to form a classic barrier island. Between the revle and the mainland, this process created a sheltered lagoon system where the sea feels tamed and the horizon seems to widen. Seen from above, the place is a sinuous ribbon of pale sand, low dunes and scattered vegetation, embracing a patchwork of lagoon lakes. From ground level you sense the same energy: the constant hush of waves on the outer side, and the calmer slap of water in the inner lagoon. It is a landscape still in motion, slowly shifting with storms and tides.

Lagoon lakes, salt meadows and coastal life

Behind the sandbar lies a mosaic of **lagunesøer**, salt meadows and low dunes that support a mix of marine and freshwater species. The shallow lagoon warms quickly in summer and is rich in invertebrates, small fish and aquatic plants, which in turn attract birds in remarkable numbers. Here you can trace the subtle transitions from open water to reed beds, from damp meadows to dry, sandy ridges underfoot. The salt meadows fringing the lagoon are speckled with halophytic plants adapted to brackish conditions, while the dunes carry coarse grasses that bind the sand. In winter, drifting snow can sculpt the low ridges into new shapes; in summer, the light reflects off the water and sand to create a bright, almost shimmering atmosphere. It is an accessible but genuinely wild-feeling corner of Zealand’s coastline.

One of eastern Denmark’s prime bird reserves

Ølsemagle Revle is designated as a bird reserve and is especially renowned for its concentration of waders. During autumn migration, almost all of Denmark’s common wader species can be encountered here, probing the lagoon’s sand and mud for worms and crustaceans. The site also hosts large flocks of ducks and geese resting and feeding before continuing their journeys. A wooden bird tower near the dam out towards the revle offers an elevated view across reed beds, lagoon and the open bay. From here you can scan for lapwings, golden plovers, oystercatchers, godwits and sandpipers, and in some years even experience the dramatic “black sun” of starlings swirling above the reeds at dusk. Raptors and owls hunt over the area, and in winter there is a chance of spotting sea eagles, peregrines and the shy bittern calling from the reeds.

Beach days in sheltered, shallow waters

Despite its scientific interest, Ølsemagle Revle is also an inviting bathing spot. The broad sandy beach and very shallow water along much of the inner shoreline make it particularly suitable for families with children. Here you can wade far out before the water reaches your waist, and the gently sloping seabed encourages paddling, sandcastle building and relaxed swimming on calm days. In the summer season a small kiosk by the main parking area sells simple refreshments, adding a casual seaside feel. The combination of soft sand, easy access and big skies over Køge Bay means you can move seamlessly between birdwatching and beach time, binoculars and bathing towel sharing the same bag.

Seasons of sound, light and coastal weather

The atmosphere at Ølsemagle Revle changes markedly with the seasons. In spring, the air is busy with the calls of migrating birds, and the first green hints appear on the meadows. Summer brings long, bright days, a softer breeze over warm sand and the quiet chatter of families enjoying the water. In autumn the light becomes sharper, flocks of waders gather on exposed sandbanks, and evenings can be dominated by dramatic skies over the bay. Winter strips the landscape back to its bones: pale dunes, dark water and the rattling of dry reeds in the wind. On cold, clear days the low sun throws long shadows across the revle, and the sense of space is heightened. Throughout the year, this exposed edge between land and sea reminds you that you are standing in a dynamic environment still being shaped by natural forces.

Protected nature and gentle visitor etiquette

As a protected coastal and bird area, Ølsemagle Revle is managed with nature conservation in mind. Restrictions on dogs, including a leash requirement from early April to the end of September, help safeguard ground-nesting birds on the beach and in the meadows. Visitor access is channelled along paths and the dam to reduce disturbance, and information on-site highlights the area’s geology and wildlife. Exploring here invites a slower pace: pausing at the bird tower, listening for the deep booming of a bittern or the distant murmur of geese, and noticing how the tide subtly redraws the shoreline. With thoughtful behaviour and a light footprint, you can experience a rare blend of easy seaside recreation and genuinely important coastal habitat, all within sight of Køge’s urban fringe.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Køge Nord

2.3 km

A soaring timber‑lined footbridge and high‑speed rail hub turning everyday commuting into a slice of contemporary Danish architecture and panoramic landscape.

Køge St.

3.7 km

Experience Skagen’s iconic Det Grå Fyr, an elegant lighthouse offering breathtaking views, unique birdwatching, and local culture at Denmark’s northernmost edge.

Visit

3.9 km

Historic lighthouse and bird observatory at Denmark’s northern tip, with panoramic sea views, interactive nature exhibits, and a vibrant café in wild coastal surroundings.

Køge Torv

4.0 km

Denmark's largest medieval town square, where seven centuries of history unfold on cobblestones.

VisitKøges selvbetjente turistbureau

4.0 km

An iconic 19th-century lighthouse at Denmark’s northern tip, famed for panoramic views, migrating birds, and immersive maritime and nature exhibits.

“Slaget i Køge Bugt”

4.0 km

Harbourfront monument on Køge’s quay, quietly marking the dramatic naval battles once fought in the bay where today only fishing boats and leisure craft glide.

Mindesmærke for slagene i Køge Bugt

4.0 km

Harbourfront monument where stone, sea breeze and maritime symbols keep the naval battles of Køge Bugt and their admirals alive on Køge’s working waterfront.

Befrielsessten i Køge

4.2 km

A solemn memorial to Denmark's liberation from Nazi occupation, standing in Køge's historic market square.

Comwell Køge Strand

4.7 km

Historic lighthouse and world-class bird observatory at Denmark’s northern tip, with sweeping sea views, immersive exhibitions, and a welcoming café.

Vallø Slotskro

9.9 km

Explore Denmark's largest private engine collection and maritime heritage at Maskinrummet in Skagen.

Roskildekrukkerne

18.2 km

Three colossal ceramic jars rising from a mirrored basin transform Roskilde’s station square into an open-air monument to a thousand years of city history.

Skänk Beer & Wine bar

18.2 km

Experience Aarhus’ celestial heritage at the Ole Rømer Observatory, where history, culture, and astronomy converge for hands-on stargazing and exploration.

Det Kongelige Palæ i Roskilde

18.7 km

Baroque palace where Danish royalty met democracy, now a vibrant hub for art and culture.

Viking Ship Museum

19.5 km

Beautiful sandy beach blending city and sea, with grassy dunes, safe swimming, and a friendly promenade—Marselisborg Strand is Aarhus’ closest seaside escape.

Thomas on the Mountain, The 6 Forgotten Giants

19.6 km

A welcoming wooden giant inviting you to sit, relax, and share the view from atop an Albertslund hilltop.

Thomas on the Mountain, The 6 Forgotten Giants

Solgårdsparken in Køge is a riverside retreat featuring woodlands, lawns, playgrounds, public art, and event spaces—an ideal escape for families and nature lovers.

Essential places to dine

Spigadoro Italiano Køge

1.2 km

Authentic Italian pizzas and fresh pasta in casual Køge setting with counter service and takeaway convenience.

Restaurant Arken

2.2 km

Waterfront seafood and Danish harbour charm aboard a ship-inspired dining room in the heart of Køge Marina.

Café Little Italy

2.2 km

Authentic Italian pizzas with crispy crusts in Køge's welcoming casual trattoria.

Stacy's

2.2 km

A brightly lit 1950s-style American diner on Køge’s harborfront, serving big burgers, shakes and retro vibes amid chrome, neon and rock ’n’ roll tunes.

Ankerstedet

2.3 km

Authentic Danish dining by the harbor—smørrebrød, steaks, and warm hospitality in Køge.

Gastronomia Italiana

2.6 km

Casual Italian pizzeria and deli on Københavnsvej in Køge, serving wood-fired pizzas, pastas and simple Italian staples at moderate prices for everyday meals.

7 Møllens Grill Køge

2.9 km

Iconic Danish grill restaurant serving legendary burgers and grilled meats since 1981.

Kinesisk Grill

3.0 km

Straightforward Chinese takeaway and grill in everyday Køge, serving generous portions of classic dishes at budget-friendly prices from a modest corner spot.

Salash

3.3 km

Modern Turkish-style barbecue and burgers in a bright, open-kitchen grill house just off Køge’s historic center, perfect for relaxed, filling meals.

Bløde Løg ApS

3.6 km

Cozy Danish evening restaurant in central Køge, serving hearty classics, caramelised onions and unpretentious comfort in a warm, town‑center setting.

Milas Pizza Køge

3.7 km

Authentic pizzas and grilled fare in a welcoming Køge neighborhood spot.

Cafe O'Flanagans

3.8 km

Cozy Irish-inspired café-bar in central Køge, serving hearty brunches, burgers and beers from late morning coffee to lively late-night weekend drinks.

Lucky Star

3.8 km

Waterfront sushi and Asian cuisine in Køge's heart, where simplicity meets authentic Japanese flavour.

The Green Corner

3.8 km

Fresh-made bowls, kebabs, and sandwiches in Køge's go-to casual take-away spot.

Odd Fellowgaarden

3.8 km

French‑inspired bistro warmth and homely cooking in a historic Køge townhouse, where homemade bread, hearty plates and a tempting cheese table set the tone for long evenings.

A light-filled Scandinavian fashion boutique in Køge’s old town, blending feminine everyday styles with relaxed, modern Nordic design.

JACK & JONES

3.8 km

Straightforward Scandinavian menswear in Køge’s Strædet shopping street, with a strong focus on denim, casual basics and easy everyday style.

Urban lounge bar by Roskilde’s main square, blending backyard summer vibes, easygoing cocktails and cosy Danish hygge late into the night.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Ølsemagle Revle

A brief summary to Ølsemagle Revle

Local tips

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

Getting There

Regional train and local bus from Copenhagen

Train and bicycle from Køge

Car or taxi within the Køge region

Ølsemagle Revle location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Ølsemagle Revle

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Ølsemagle Revle

A shifting sandbar shaping Køge Bay

Lagoon lakes, salt meadows and coastal life

One of eastern Denmark’s prime bird reserves

Beach days in sheltered, shallow waters

Seasons of sound, light and coastal weather

Protected nature and gentle visitor etiquette

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Køge Nord

Køge St.

Visit

Køge Torv

VisitKøges selvbetjente turistbureau

“Slaget i Køge Bugt”

Mindesmærke for slagene i Køge Bugt

Befrielsessten i Køge

Comwell Køge Strand

Vallø Slotskro

Roskildekrukkerne

Skänk Beer & Wine bar

Det Kongelige Palæ i Roskilde

Viking Ship Museum

Thomas on the Mountain, The 6 Forgotten Giants

Unmissable attractions to see

Drikkevandpost - Nørre Boulevard/Græsmarksvej

Mindesten for Elias Andersen

Lovparken

Køge bølgebryder

Mindesten for Træskoslaget

KØS Museum of Art in Public Spaces

Køge Church

Vandkunsten - Stationspladsen

Bronzestien - Køge Ås

the old house

Køge Byhistoriske Arkiv

Køge Museum

Drikkevandpost - Torvet 14

Brønden på Køge Torv

Drikkevandpost - Havnen

Essential places to dine

Spigadoro Italiano Køge

Restaurant Arken

Café Little Italy

Stacy's

Ankerstedet

Gastronomia Italiana

7 Møllens Grill Køge

Kinesisk Grill

Salash

Bløde Løg ApS

Milas Pizza Køge

Cafe O'Flanagans

Lucky Star

The Green Corner

Odd Fellowgaarden

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Galleri ARTBEL

Mode

Noun

Bog & idé - Køge

Cosmo

Outlet Køge

Strædet Køge

Marie-lou V/marie Louise Busk Rasmussen

KLUD

Uldahl

Pure Me