Strandskov: Køge’s Untamed Coastal Forest and Refuge
Explore Strandskov, Køge’s enchanting coastal national forest where woodland trails, wildlife, and Baltic shores converge for a peaceful escape from city life.
Strandskov is a serene stretch of coastal national forest south of Køge, blending ancient woodland and wild dunes beside Øresund’s edge. Famed for scenic trails, wildlife spotting, and peaceful seaside escapes, its landscape is a patchwork of pine, native hardwoods, meadows, and sandy shore. This natural oasis offers gentle hiking, birdwatching, foraging, picnicking, and rare glimpses of Denmark’s diverse flora and fauna—a truly restorative counterpoint to city bustle.
A brief summary to Tivoli Gardens
- Vesterbrogade 3, København V, København V, 1630, DK
- +4533151001
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-10 pm
- Thursday 11 am-10 pm
- Friday 11 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 11 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Bring sturdy shoes—trails can be soft or sandy, especially near the dunes, and conditions may get muddy after rain.
- Keep an eye out for wild berries and mushrooms in late summer and autumn; foraging is popular but pick only what you know.
- Binoculars are useful—Strandskov is excellent for birdwatching, especially during spring and autumn migration.
- There are few benches or shelters, so pack a blanket or mat if planning a picnic.
- Being a natural area, there are no toilets or cafes within the forest. Plan accordingly before your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
Starting from Køge’s main square, a leisurely walk south leads you past the historic harbour and along the coastal edge as the town gives way to oak and pine forest. The forest entrance becomes visible after churches and local playgrounds give way to open stretches. The walk is pleasant and usually takes around 30–40 minutes for most visitors.
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Public Transport
Buses regularly depart from the central station area toward Køge’s southern outskirts. After disembarking at stops near residential neighborhoods bordering the forest, it’s a short walk across meadows and pedestrian tracks to the main woodland trails. Allow 15–20 minutes for the bus ride with fares typically around 24–28 DKK (single adult ticket).
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Taxi
A taxi from Køge’s center arrives at the forest edge in about 8–12 minutes under normal traffic. Costs are typically 90–120 DKK depending on pick-up point and time of day. Note that taxis can drop passengers near the most accessible woodland paths but may have limited space for parking during weekends.
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Cycling
The route south from Køge center follows scenic bike paths that skirt the waterfront before entering the quiet forest perimeter. It’s a safe 15–20-minute ride with limited vehicle traffic. Bike rental is possible in central Køge, with typical rates around 80–120 DKK per day.
Discover more about Tivoli Gardens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Copenhagen Visitor Service
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National Museum of Denmark
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Essential places to dine
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