Tryggelev Nor Bird Sanctuary
Denmark's premier wetland sanctuary for vulnerable breeding birds and migratory raptors.
Tryggelev Nor is one of Denmark's most bird-rich wetlands, comprising three interconnected lagoons on the island of Langeland. This protected nature reserve hosts vulnerable breeding species including spotted crakes, avocets, common terns, and various duck species, alongside migratory raptors during autumn passage. The sanctuary features observation hides, walking trails, and carefully managed habitats created through ecological restoration projects.
A brief summary to Tryggelev Nor bird sanctuary
- Stenbækvej 6, Humble, 5932, DK
- +4533283839
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 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
- Visit during autumn (September–October) to witness spectacular raptor migration, when common buzzards, sparrowhawks, and marsh harriers pass through in significant numbers.
- Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify spotted crakes, avocets, and specialized duck species breeding in the reserve's protected lagoons.
- Use the observation hides early in the morning or during late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
- Respect breeding season restrictions (April–July) by staying on designated trails and keeping noise minimal to avoid disturbing nesting birds.
- Check weather conditions before visiting; the exposed wetland offers little shelter, so bring waterproof clothing and wind protection.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
Getting There
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Car
From Humble village center, drive approximately 3 kilometers north on local roads to reach Stenbækvej. The sanctuary entrance and parking area are located at Stenbækvej 6, 5932 Humble. Journey time from Humble is approximately 8–10 minutes. Parking is available at the visitor area. The site is accessible year-round by vehicle.
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Bicycle
Langeland is well-suited for cycling. From Humble, cycle north via local routes to Stenbækvej (approximately 3 kilometers, 15–20 minutes). The reserve entrance is accessible by bicycle, and cycling is permitted on designated paths within the sanctuary. This is an excellent option during mild weather months.
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Walking
From Humble village, walking to the sanctuary takes approximately 45–60 minutes (3 kilometers) via country roads and local paths. The terrain is flat and suitable for most fitness levels. Walking is practical during daylight hours and mild weather; however, the exposed landscape offers limited shelter from wind and rain.
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Guided Tour
Contact Fugleværnsfonden (the Danish Ornithological Society) at +45 33 28 38 39 to arrange guided birdwatching tours led by experienced ornithologists. Tours typically last 2–4 hours and are tailored to seasonal bird activity. Advance booking is recommended, particularly during autumn migration season.
Tryggelev Nor bird sanctuary location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Tryggelev Nor bird sanctuary
A Living Laboratory for Bird Conservation
Trigglelev Nor stands as one of Denmark's most significant bird sanctuaries, protecting a complex of three lagoons—Tryggelev, Salme, and Nørreballe Nor—across 178 hectares on Langeland island. The reserve is designated as both a national and international protected area under EU bird protection and habitat directives, reflecting its ecological importance. The sanctuary's primary mission is safeguarding vulnerable breeding species and providing critical stopover habitat for migratory birds traversing Northern Europe.Vulnerable Species and Breeding Grounds
The reserve hosts some of Denmark's most threatened bird species. Spotted crakes, avocets, common terns, red-backed shrikes, and specialized duck species including garganey, pintail, and tufted duck breed within the sanctuary's carefully managed wetlands. Three artificial breeding islands within Nørreballe Nor provide predator-free nesting sites, protecting hundreds of breeding pairs annually from terrestrial predators. The sanctuary's autumn raptor migration is particularly spectacular, with common buzzards, eurasian sparrowhawks, and marsh harriers regularly observed in passage.Ecological Restoration and Water Quality
The restoration of Nørreballe Nor represents a landmark environmental project, recreating a 50-hectare lake with surrounding meadows after decades of agricultural use. This restoration removed 70 percent of nitrogen previously flowing into the coastal lagoon, dramatically improving water quality throughout the reserve. The project expanded the sanctuary from 100 to 178 hectares, creating diverse habitat mosaics that support both breeding birds and migratory species. Four breeding islands were constructed during the restoration process, now serving as vital nesting platforms.Year-Round Grazing and Habitat Management
The sanctuary employs continuous grazing by cattle throughout the year to maintain optimal habitat conditions. This management approach reduces overall livestock density while allowing rich summer flowering in meadows and maintaining low-growth grasslands essential for spring migrants and breeding birds. Winter grazing by cattle creates hoof marks and disturbance that expose soil, supporting plant and insect communities that form the food base for the reserve's bird populations. This integrated management supports a diverse reed forest ecosystem alongside open wetland habitats.Visitor Experience and Observation Infrastructure
Multiple observation hides positioned throughout the reserve enable visitors to watch birds without disturbance. Walking trails wind through the sanctuary, offering views across the lagoons and into reed beds where secretive species shelter. The reserve welcomes visitors year-round, though autumn presents the most dramatic birdwatching opportunities during raptor migration. Information boards and guided interpretation help visitors understand the ecological processes and conservation efforts that sustain this internationally important wetland.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Langdyssen "Kong Humbles Grav"
5.9 km
A 55‑metre Stone Age long dolmen in the fields north of Humble, where legend, prehistoric engineering and soft Langeland landscapes meet in quiet simplicity.
Monument for Danske Sømænd
11.4 km
A modest harbourfront memorial in Marstal that quietly honours generations of Danish sailors who left this island port and never returned from the sea.
Rise Kirke
18.1 km
A quietly beautiful 12th‑century countryside church on Ærø, where whitewashed walls, historic graves and open fields tell the island’s rural and seafaring story.
Andelen Guesthouse
19.2 km
Discover the charm of Ærøskøbing at Andelen Guesthouse, your cozy retreat in the heart of Denmark's picturesque island.
På Torvet
19.2 km
Experience the unique charm of På Torvet in Ærøskøbing, where historic beauty meets modern comfort in the heart of Denmark.
Danish Island Weddings
19.3 km
Experience the magic of weddings on the enchanting Danish island of Ærø, where love meets scenic beauty and unforgettable memories are made.
Ærø Turist & Erhverv
19.4 km
Explore the beautiful island of Ærø with expert insights and resources from Ærø Turist & Erhverv, your local tourist information center.
Ærøfærgerne
19.4 km
Experience the scenic ferry ride to Ærø Island via Ærøfærgerne, where Danish charm meets breathtaking coastal views.
Hattesens Konfektfabrik Aps
19.4 km
Discover the sweet artistry of traditional Danish liquorice at Hattesens Konfektfabrik Aps in scenic Ærøskøbing.
Hotel Ærøhus
19.4 km
Historic hotel in the heart of Ærøskøbing known for its authentic Danish charm, lush gardens, and local island cuisine—a perfect base for exploring Ærø.
Forladt skorsten
23.9 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Bregninge Kirke
25.2 km
Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Tranekær Castle
26.4 km
A red-plastered island fortress turned noble family home, Tranekær Castle crowns a hat-shaped hill on Langeland, blending medieval power, romance and working estate life.
Beautiful Beach
28.4 km
Discover Smørmosen Beach in Svendborg: A serene coastal escape with white sands, calm waters, and family-friendly fun on the charming island of Thurø.
Vindeholme
28.7 km
Explore Vindeholme Castle in Nakskov, Denmark – a serene historical gem perfect for a day of relaxation and discovery amid stunning gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Langdysse i Ormstrup
1.2 km
Experience Langeland’s ancient past inside Hulbjerg, a stunning Neolithic passage grave where Stone Age architecture, rituals, and landscape come vividly to life.
Tryggelev Kirke
2.9 km
A humble 12th‑century village church on South Langeland, with a rare medieval stone barn and a tranquil churchyard steeped in rural Danish history.
Bagenkop Kunsthal
4.5 km
Harbor-front contemporary art in a former rescue station, where changing exhibitions and coastal light meet at the southern tip of Langeland.
Broløkke
4.7 km
Historic Langeland manor reborn as a stylish countryside retreat with on-site dining, brewery, spa comforts, and spacious grounds for romantic stays and events.
Fiskeriets Hus
4.7 km
Intimate harbor-side museum where Bagenkop’s fishing past comes alive through artifacts, stories, and an immersive ship simulator on southern Langeland.
Ristinge Klint
5.2 km
Dramatic ice‑age cliffs, sweeping Baltic views and simple coastal trails make Ristinge Klint a quietly spectacular corner of southern Langeland.
Langelandsfort
5.6 km
A former coastal stronghold on Langeland’s southern tip where bunkers, ships and Cold War stories meet sea air, open skies and hands-on family exploration.
Hulbjerg | Burial site from the Peasant Stone Age
6.4 km
Crawl into a 5000‑year‑old Stone Age tomb on windswept Langeland and stand inside one of Denmark’s best‑preserved passage graves, where early surgery left its mark.
Vilde heste
7.8 km
A free‑roaming herd of hardy Exmoor ponies shaping a wild coastal landscape of grassland, marsh and cliffs at the southern tip of Langeland.
Dovns Klint
8.0 km
Wind-shaped cliffs, big Baltic skies and quiet pebble shores at the southernmost tip of Langeland, where Ice Age geology meets tranquil Danish coastal life.
Sydligste Punkt på Langeland
8.1 km
Wind‑sculpted cliffs, pebble shores and wide Baltic horizons at the southernmost point of Langeland, where Ice Age hills meet open sea and endless sky.
Naturdestination Skovsgaard
8.2 km
Organic estate, wild-grazing herds and slow island living come together at this Langeland nature destination of trails, learning spaces and cosy stays.
Lindelse Kirke
9.2 km
Experience Hulbjerg Passage Grave on Langeland, a Neolithic burial monument where prehistoric engineering and ancient stories come together amid stunning natural views.
Lindelse Mølle
9.8 km
Historic hilltop windmill and former mill farm on Langeland, blending rural views, traditional architecture and emerging community life in a compact village setting.
Erik's Tail
10.4 km
A narrow ribbon of sand lined with colourful huts, Erik's Tail puts you between two seas at once: sheltered lagoon on one side, open Baltic waves on the other.
Essential places to dine
Humble Pizza & Grill
4.4 km
Casual pizzeria, grill and café in the village of Humble, serving hearty pizzas, burgers and Bosnian-style grills for easy dine-in or takeaway on Langeland.
Humble Kro Hotel
4.4 km
Traditional Danish roadside inn in the village of Humble, serving classic kro food with simple, budget‑friendly rooms close to Langeland’s beaches and countryside.
Spisestedet Havnen,Langeland, Bagenkop
4.6 km
Relaxed harbour-side brasserie in Bagenkop serving hearty Danish comfort food and fresh local fish just a few steps from the boats on Langeland’s southern tip.
Bistro Bredo
4.7 km
Casual roadside bistro in Humble on Langeland, serving American-inspired homemade burgers and classic sides in a relaxed, family-friendly village setting.
Restaurant Kædeby Cafeen
6.2 km
Hearty Danish classics in a former station house on south Langeland, where generous portions, cosy surroundings and a family-friendly feel anchor any island stay.
Café Haven
8.3 km
Danish brasserie with outdoor seating and local charm in central Rudkøbing.
Landevejskroen Lindelse (tidl. Lindelse Kro)
8.9 km
Classic Danish roadside inn on Langeland serving hearty kromad, hosting village gatherings and offering simple rooms in a warm, traditional kro setting.
Pizzeria Siciliana v/ Marcello Antonio
10.9 km
Harbor-close, no-nonsense pizzeria in Marstal serving crisp, generous Italian-style pies and takeaway boxes ideal for salty-haired sailors and island wanderers.
Sønderrendens Perle/Burger House Marstal
11.1 km
Casual harbourfront burger joint in Marstal serving hearty comfort food and ice cream just steps from the water, ideal for an easy seaside meal on Ærø.
Miss Sophy Gastroclub
11.2 km
Relaxed island bistro and wine bar in central Marstal, serving seasonal comfort dishes, creative burgers and cocktails in an intimate, hygge-filled setting.
Femmasteren Hotel & Vandrerhjem
11.2 km
Character-packed hotel and hostel in central Marstal, blending Ærø’s seafaring history, cozy communal living, and easy access to harbor-side attractions.
Prinsebroen
11.3 km
Harbour-side smokehouse and café in Marstal, serving Ærø’s signature smoked fish and open sandwiches with wide sea views and an easy-going island atmosphere.
Webers café og restaurant
11.3 km
A warmly lit former sailors’ pub in Marstal, serving compact Danish–French bistro dishes, local Ærø beers and well-chosen wines in a cosy brown-café setting.
Restaurant Fru Berg
11.4 km
Harbourfront fish plates, Ærø pancakes and cosy nautical charm right on Marstal’s working quay, where local flavours meet everyday life on the Baltic.
Den Gamle Vingaard
11.4 km
Mediterranean-Nordic cuisine in a historic maritime setting with a tranquil garden courtyard.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Den Gamle Told
4.6 km
Cosy harbourside coffee and souvenirs in Bagenkop’s old customs-house setting, a relaxed stop for ice cream, drinks and a breather by the southern Langeland sea.
Den Gamle Fiskehytte
4.7 km
Polar explorer's gallery celebrating Arctic adventures, artisan crafts, and sustainable luxury by the sea.
Fiski
4.8 km
Fresh-caught Danish seafood and artisanal delicacies in a harbor town gem.
Ulla - Keramik
5.0 km
Handcrafted Danish ceramics with playful surprises, shaped by five decades of island inspiration.
Kræmmerne i Kædeby
6.2 km
Eccentric island flea-market on Langeland, where farm buildings brim with kitsch, curios and second-hand treasures in a relaxed rural setting.
Humble Loppehaller
6.3 km
Langeland's most eclectic indoor flea market, where vintage treasures and Danish nostalgia await discovery.
Antikhjørnet
11.5 km
Curated vintage treasures and 4,000 Christmas ornaments in a charming Ærø antique shop.
Ærøpigen
11.5 km
Cozy island shop in central Marstal, blending woolly comforts, local delicacies and everyday essentials in a snug Kirkestræde setting on Ærø.
Chr. H v/Hanne Kromann
11.5 km
Locally anchored clothing shop in Marstal’s old town, offering classic Scandinavian styles for men and women with a subtle, maritime Ærø touch.
Bille Knudsen Isenkram
11.5 km
A densely stocked island hardware and homeware store in Marstal’s pedestrian street, supplying sailors, locals and holidaymakers with practical Danish everyday goods.
DCA Op Shop
11.6 km
Small island thrift shop in Marstal where second-hand treasures, community spirit and global charity work come together in a cozy, slow-paced setting.
Imerco
16.3 km
Compact Danish homeware store on Rudkøbing’s main street, blending everyday kitchen essentials, stylish tableware and gift ideas for locals and island visitors.
Littlevillagepeople.dk
16.3 km
A small, carefully curated design shop in Rudkøbing, blending children’s wear, toys, interiors, ceramics and yarn into one cozy slice of Scandinavian everyday style.
Pigekammeret v/Birgitte Nygaard Jensen
16.3 km
A cosy Rudkøbing boutique where Scandinavian-style gifts, home comforts and gourmet treats come together in one lovingly curated island shop.
Ostehuset Rudkøbing
16.3 km
Artisanal cheese and wine shop celebrating Danish heritage and international flavors in historic Rudkøbing.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar & Café MF Egeskov
11.2 km
Cozy harborfront bar and café on Marstal’s working quay, blending maritime atmosphere, dockside views, and relaxed drinks in the spirit of Ærø’s seafaring life.
BALLAST BAR BUTIK
11.4 km
Cozy harborfront cocktail bar and woolly boutique in Marstal’s old ferry waiting room, blending inventive drinks, Nordic knitwear and intimate island atmosphere.
Foley's Pub
11.5 km
Marstal's maritime pub where live music, local brews, and seafaring tales create authentic island nightlife.
Skipperkroen
11.5 km
Cosy skipper’s bar in central Marstal, serving inexpensive drinks and simple fare in a relaxed, maritime small‑town atmosphere close to the harbour.
Marstal cafe Den Glade Gris
11.8 km
Cozy island bar in Marstal where locals and visitors share beers, stories and a relaxed slice of Ærø everyday life.
Langelands Jazzklub
16.2 km
Tiny island jazz hub in Rudkøbing, blending close-up concerts, seasonal outdoor gigs and decades of Danish jazz heritage in a warm, community-run setting.
Basicbigband
16.2 km
Local big band headquarters in a quiet Rudkøbing neighbourhood, where brass, reeds and rhythm bring Langeland’s intimate jazz scene to life on select evenings.
Dybendal
16.3 km
Easygoing local bar on Rudkøbing’s main square, blending billiards, darts and drinks with small‑town atmosphere and summer concerts on the cobbled Torvet.
Sukker
16.4 km
Intimate wine bar where Danish heritage meets Nordic sophistication in historic Rudkøbing.
Kasket karl
16.4 km
A classic Rudkøbing bodega where locals gather for cold beer, warm conversation, and an authentic slice of island everyday life from morning to late evening.
Havnekiosken v/Ole Damgaard Hansen
16.5 km
A tiny historic kiosk-bar on Rudkøbing’s harbor front, serving simple drinks and snacks with big maritime views and the easy rhythm of island harbor life.
Havnekiosken 6kanten
16.5 km
Quirky octagonal harbour kiosk turned cosy café-bar, serving simple Danish fare and cold beer with front-row views of Rudkøbing’s boats and Langelandsbroen.
No. 10
16.5 km
Cozy, adults‑only lounge bar in a former butcher’s shop, serving Champagne, craft beer and cocktails with island hygge and a colourful courtyard in central Rudkøbing.
Paa Drejet Beach Bar
17.8 km
Laid-back beach bar and grill by Drejet Beach on Langeland, pairing sea air, sand and simple comfort food in the heart of Spodsbjerg’s holiday‑home area.
Arrebo
19.4 km
Island pub where locals and visitors gather for live music, cold drinks, and authentic Ærø atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ommel
14.3 km
A small, sociable island nightspot near Marstal where locals and travelers share quiet drinks, simple music and the easygoing charm of Ærø after dark.
Crazy Daisy Svendborg
29.9 km
Compact, high-energy weekend nightclub in central Svendborg, serving mainstream beats, drinks and a sociable dance floor until the early hours.
CLUB ZANZI
30.4 km
High‑energy waterfront nightclub bringing big‑city beats, flashing lights and late‑night dancing to the heart of coastal Nakskov.
Ærø Golf Klub
35.1 km
Distinctive links course on Ærø’s northwest cape, blending historic lighthouse views, Nordic coastlines, and a classic Danish golfing challenge.
Old Danish Pub
57.4 km
Central Sønderborg institution blending classic Danish pub ambiance, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere—perfect for experiencing Southern Denmark’s warmth and social life.
Kaizen ApS
57.4 km
Compact disco-style nightclub in central Sønderborg, pulsing with late-night beats, colourful lights and a straightforward bar for an unpretentious night out.
Muzirkus
57.6 km
Nyborg's independent music sanctuary where local bands rehearse, collaborate, and perform since 1974.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
57.6 km
Authentic New Orleans jazz experience in the heart of Sønderborg.
KJ's bodel
58.5 km
Laid‑back local nightspot on Nyborg’s main square, mixing simple drinks, sociable bar chatter and a compact dance floor in an unpretentious setting.
Orange Club
61.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kiel at Orange Club, where the music is pumping and the dance floor is waiting.
Luna Club
61.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Luna Club in Kiel, where electrifying music, exquisite cocktails, and unforgettable events await you.
Rathausbunker Kiel
62.4 km
Experience the underground nightlife of Kiel at Rathausbunker, where music and energy collide for unforgettable nights.
Ben Briggs
62.7 km
Discover the heart of Kiel's nightlife at Ben Briggs, a lively disco club and bar where you can dance the night away in an electrifying atmosphere.
Anna Club & Discostadl
63.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kiel at Anna Club & Discostadl, a premier disco club where rhythm and excitement meet.
Dance All Over
63.6 km
Sønderborg’s sociable dance hub, where fitness, swing and party-ready moves come together in energetic, community-driven classes across the city.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Nature Escape
- Adventurous
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly