Rebild National Park (Rebild Bakker & Rold Skov)
Undulating heather hills and deep northern forest meet Danish–American history in one of Denmark’s most distinctive and atmospheric natural landscapes.
Rebild National Park, or Rebild Bakker, is a hilly heathland in North Jutland framed by the vast Rold Skov forest. Sweeping heather-covered slopes, clear springs and winding valleys create some of Denmark’s most distinctive scenery, with grazing sheep maintaining the open landscape. Trails of varying difficulty weave through the hills and forest, linking viewpoints, picnic spots, streams and cultural landmarks that reveal the area’s strong Danish–American ties and deep-rooted rural history.
A brief summary to Rebild National Park
- Rebildvej 31, Skørping, 9520, DK
- Duration: 1.5 to 6 hours
- Free
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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
- Time your visit for late August or early September if you want to see the heather in full purple bloom across the hillsides.
- Wear sturdy shoes: many paths are sandy, uneven and can be slippery after rain, especially on the steeper slopes.
- Bring layers and a windproof jacket, as the exposed hilltops can feel significantly cooler than the sheltered forest.
- Combine a heath walk with a loop into Rold Skov to experience the contrast between open hills and dense woodland in a single outing.
- If you prefer quieter paths, start early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the main clearings are less busy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Regional train and short walk from Aalborg
From Aalborg, take a regional train on the Aalborg–Skørping line to Skørping Station, a journey of about 20–25 minutes with departures typically at least once per hour. A standard adult ticket usually costs around 40–70 DKK one way, depending on discounts and time of purchase. From Skørping Station, allow 30–40 minutes on foot along local roads and forest paths to reach the main Rebild Bakker area. The walk is mostly gentle but includes some gradual inclines and may be less suitable in icy or very wet conditions.
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Car from Aalborg and nearby towns
Driving from Aalborg to Rebild National Park typically takes 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic. The route follows major roads through North Jutland and is straightforward year-round, though speeds can be reduced in winter weather. There is usually free or low-cost parking near the main entrances and visitor facilities, but spaces closest to the hills can fill up on sunny weekends and around 4 July events, so arriving earlier in the day helps secure a spot.
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Local bus connection within Rebild Municipality
Local buses serving Skørping and the surrounding Rebild area provide an option if you are staying in nearby villages or towns. Travel times range from 15–40 minutes depending on the route and starting point, with typical single fares around 25–40 DKK. Services can be less frequent in the evenings and on weekends, so it is important to check current timetables in advance and allow extra time to walk the final stretch from the bus stop to the park entrance.
Rebild National Park location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Rebild National Park
Heather Hills Above the Himmerland Landscape
Rebild National Park, known locally as Rebild Bakker, is a rare pocket of dramatic terrain in an otherwise gentle Danish landscape. Here the ground suddenly rises and falls in a series of steep, heather-clad hills overlooking the wide Lindenborg valley. In late summer the slopes flush purple with blooming heather, while hardy juniper bushes and berry plants cling to the sandy soil, giving the area a distinctly wild character. The hills are the result of ancient glacial forces that carved deep meltwater gorges into the plateau. From the higher knolls you look across a patchwork of forest, meadows and distant farms, with sheep grazing the open heath to keep the vegetation low and preserve the views. Even on busy days it is easy to find a quiet path or secluded hollow to enjoy the wind and the sweeping horizons.Rold Skov: Denmark’s Great Northern Forest
On three sides the heath is embraced by Rold Skov, one of Denmark’s largest contiguous forests. The woodland mixes towering beech stands with conifers and mossy clearings, punctuated by springs, streams and small lakes that appear almost unexpectedly between the trees. Soft forest paths alternate with more rugged routes, making it possible to tailor walks for both leisurely strollers and energetic hikers. The chalk-rich ground beneath the forest produces exceptionally clear springs, many of which emerge from the hillside and feed into a network of brooks that cut through the valleys. In places, the forest floor is dotted with ancient burial mounds and sunken tracks, subtle reminders that people have moved through these woods for thousands of years.Danish–American Stories in the Hills
Rebild is not only a landscape story but also a cultural one. In the early 1900s a group of Danish emigrants in America bought this heathland as a gift to the Danish state, creating a place where ties between Denmark and the United States could be celebrated. That legacy lives on in annual 4 July festivities that fill the natural amphitheatre with speeches, flags and music, blending American independence traditions with Danish midsummer atmosphere. Scattered around the hills are small museums and historic buildings that expand on these themes. Exhibits explore emigration stories, rural life in Himmerland and the evolution of the landscape itself, while modest farmhouses turned heritage sites illustrate how families once scratched a living from this sandy soil and rough pasture.Trails, Viewpoints and Quiet Corners
Well-marked paths loop through both the heath and forest, ranging from short circuits to more demanding routes that climb several hills in succession. Some trails lead to high points such as Sønderkol, where open panoramas reveal the curves of the valley and the dense canopy of Rold Skov stretching to the horizon. Others follow the streams at the bottom of the slopes, where the air feels cooler and the sound of running water masks distant voices. Along the way you encounter wooden bridges, rustic benches and occasional shelters that invite impromptu picnics. In fine weather, families spread blankets on the grass near the valley floor, while more intrepid visitors venture deeper into the forest or link the park with longer regional hiking and cycling routes that traverse North Jutland.Seasons, Wildlife and Atmosphere
Each season brings its own mood to Rebild. Spring brightens the forest with young beech leaves and clear light over the hills. Summer offers long evenings and warm heather-scented air, ideal for extended rambles and outdoor meals. Autumn adds copper tones to the woods and a sharper edge to the wind, while winter can cover the slopes in frost, making the contours of the land even more pronounced. Birdsong is a constant presence, joined by the rustle of small mammals in the undergrowth and the occasional distant call of grazing livestock. Despite its cultural importance and easy access, the park retains a surprisingly tranquil ambience. You are never far from a viewpoint, yet it is just as easy to step away from the main clearings and let the subtle details of this northern heathland and forest landscape reveal themselves slowly as you walk.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel BramslevGaard
19.3 km
Experience tranquility and history at Hotel BramslevGaard, nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker by Mariager Fjord, offering gourmet dining, spa retreats, and easy access to Northern Jutland's natural wonders.
Restaurant BramslevGaard
19.3 km
Experience Danish history and gastronomy at BramslevGaard, a charming manor house nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker near Hobro, offering stunning views and French-inspired cuisine.
Mariager Fjord
19.9 km
Denmark's longest fjord winds through pristine Jutland landscapes, offering unspoilt nature, charming villages, and exceptional outdoor adventures.
Hobro Lystbådehavn
20.9 km
Denmark's premier fjord marina with historic charm and modern comfort.
Mariager Lystbådehavn
21.6 km
Denmark's most beautiful fjord meets a thriving sailing community in this welcoming maritime harbor.
Hotel Postgaarden Mariager
21.9 km
Experience historic Danish charm and modern comfort at Hotel Postgaarden Mariager, nestled in the heart of the 'City of Roses' with easy access to Mariager Fjord's natural beauty.
Mariager Kirke
22.0 km
A lofty Bridgettine abbey church turned parish landmark, where Gothic stone, noble tombs and organ music tell Mariager’s story above the fjord.
Mariager Church
22.1 km
A towering former abbey church above Mariager Fjord, where Gothic brickwork, noble tombs and a distinctive Aubertin organ keep centuries of faith and history alive.
Alstrup krat
22.2 km
Explore Alstrup Krat near Mariager: Hike through ancient forests, discover Bronze Age burial mounds, and enjoy stunning views of Mariager Fjord. A blend of history and nature awaits.
Rosenhaven
22.2 km
Discover Rosenhaven in Mariager, Denmark: a serene city park with over 400 rose species, blending history and beauty for a tranquil escape in the 'City of Roses'.
Munkholmanlægget
22.3 km
Discover Munkholmanlægget in Mariager: A historic park with tranquil nature, a charming lake, and a touch of whimsy, perfect for a peaceful escape and exploration.
Kings Hill | Megalithic tomb
22.3 km
Explore the rich tapestry of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's premier design museum.
Ivan Evigvår trold
22.3 km
Explore Ivan Evigvår Trold, a magical tourist attraction in Mariager, Denmark, where folklore meets artistry in a stunning natural setting.
Lille Vildmose
22.8 km
Discover Denmark's largest protected area, Lille Vildmose, a haven for wildlife and a unique raised bog ecosystem, offering immersive nature experiences and conservation insights.
Aalborg Zoo
23.1 km
Explore Malmö’s premier museum for technology, science, and seafaring, featuring interactive exhibitions, classic vehicles, and Sweden’s only public submarine display.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kimbrerstenen i Rebild Bakker
0.1 km
A carved Cimbrian bull in the heather-clad hills of Rebild Bakker, Kimbrerstenen links quiet North Jutland scenery with the far-reaching journeys of an ancient tribe.
Bålhytten i Rebild Bakker
0.1 km
Octagonal fire shelter honoring Danish-American heritage in Rebild's protected hills.
VINGES VANDRING
0.1 km
Experience Denmark’s most iconic heathland vistas and heritage on the well-marked Kvalitetssti Rebild hiking trail in the legendary Rebild National Park.
RebildPorten
0.1 km
Contemporary welcome center and terrace at the gateway to Rebild Hills and Rold Forest, where maps, stories and local insight prepare you for the landscape ahead.
Kvalitetssti Rebild
0.1 km
A certified premium hiking loop through Rebild Bakker’s purple heaths, deep springs and ancient forest, showcasing some of Denmark’s most dramatic lowland terrain.
Museum Rebild
0.1 km
Where Danish emigration stories meet transatlantic friendship in historic northern Jutland hills.
Rebild Bakker Information
0.2 km
Compact visitor hub with restrooms and trail information at the edge of Rebild Bakker, linking Skørping’s everyday life to Denmark’s heather-clad national park.
Danhostel Rebild
0.2 km
Welcoming hostel near Denmark's scenic Rebild Bakker hills with modern rooms, friendly staff, and included breakfast.
Comwell Rebild Bakker
0.4 km
Luxury resort immersed in Denmark's most visited national park, blending Nordic wellness with historic landscape.
Lars Kjærs Hus
0.9 km
Tiny forest cottage, big folk tale: step into the poacher Lars Kjær’s world and his fortune-telling wife’s home in the hills of Rebild Bakker.
Skovtårnet
1.1 km
Modest in height but rich in views, Skovtårnet lifts you above Rold Skov’s twisted pines for wide horizons over Rebild’s hills and valleys in every season.
Ravnkilde
1.1 km
A powerful clear-water spring hidden in the wooded folds of Rebild Bakker, where rare wetland plants, cool streams and seasonal sea trout share a tranquil valley.
Røverknolden
1.1 km
Artistic forest playground where imagination meets adventure in Denmark's largest woodland.
Troldeskoven
1.2 km
A compact corner of Rold Skov where centuries‑old beech trees twist into troll-like sculptures, blending folklore, forest history and quietly enchanting woodland atmosphere.
Hvasstræet
1.3 km
A modest memorial tree in the depths of Rold Skov, Hvasstræet quietly honours forester Jens Hvass amid rustling conifers and tranquil North Jutland woodland.
Essential places to dine
Top Karens Hus
0.0 km
Historic countryside traktørsted at the gateway to Rebild Bakker, serving traditional Danish food, coffee and cake in intimate low‑ceilinged rooms and garden.
Westernhuset
0.1 km
Skørping's premier venue for group celebrations and traditional Danish dining
Rebildhus
0.1 km
Hearty Danish lunch and countryside charm on the edge of Rebild Bakker’s rolling hills, a relaxed restaurant base for walks, family outings and day trips.
Bb Rold
0.2 km
A homely little café and B&B-style retreat in a quiet Skørping street, offering simple comforts and easy access to the forests and hills of Rold Skov.
Røverstuen
0.3 km
Woodland restaurant at Rebild’s edge, where Danish comfort cooking, rustic interiors and forest legends combine into a relaxed, story-rich meal stop in Skørping.
Papas Pizza Og Kebab House V/Serdar Keskin
2.9 km
Casual neighborhood pizzeria and kebab house in central Skørping, serving generous Danish-style pizzas, kebabs and grill favorites at moderate prices all week.
Mosskovpavillonen
3.8 km
Historic forest pavilion serving French-Danish cuisine beside a pristine lake in North Jutland's natural heart.
Restaurant Hul19
5.0 km
Laid-back Scandinavian clubhouse dining with sweeping views over Rold Skov Golfklub’s closing hole and the forested landscape beyond in Skørping.
Ice Sushi
6.4 km
Straightforward sushi takeaway on Hobrovej in Støvring, serving practical sharing boxes and casual eat-in options for easy weeknight dinners and road-trip stops.
Bella Italia Støvring
6.7 km
Cozy pizza and steakhouse on Støvring’s main street, serving generous Italian-inspired comfort food and easygoing Danish hospitality for locals and road‑trippers alike.
MesterBageren Støvring
6.7 km
Lively neighborhood bakery-café in central Støvring, serving classic Danish breads, pastries and celebration cakes from early morning until late afternoon.
MADUMSØHUS ISBAR
7.4 km
Homely countryside ice cream stop by Madum Lake, where classic Danish soft ice meets quiet Jutland landscapes and relaxed summer-evening vibes.
Burger King
10.3 km
Flame-grilled burgers and quick meals in rural Jutland's convenient fast-food hub.
Motorvejsgrillen
10.4 km
Old-school Danish roadside grill off the Nørager motorway, serving hearty burgers, fries and classic fast food to drivers, locals and truckers all week.
Sønderup Landkøkken v/Dorthe Nørhave Johansen
11.6 km
Rural North Jutland kitchen turning classic Danish farm recipes into hearty daily meals and generous buffets for locals, pensioners and countryside celebrations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Roldhøj Lopper og Luksus
0.2 km
A cosy vintage barn near Rebild Bakker packed with Danish design, retro furniture and quirky treasures for slow, sustainable treasure hunting in Skørping.
Rebild Bakker (Rebildvej / Rebild)
0.3 km
Heather-clad hills, glacial gorges, and cross-Atlantic heritage unite in Rebild Bakker, Denmark’s iconic national park and cultural meeting ground.
Vinhandel La BourGogne
1.5 km
Discover Vinhandel La BourGogne in Skørping: A curated selection of fine wines and expert guidance await wine enthusiasts.
Holy Moses Wineshop
2.2 km
Characterful neighbourhood wine shop in Skørping, pouring American bottles, local vintages and sustainable delights from morning to evening every day.
Lenas Blomster
2.9 km
Friendly neighbourhood florist and gift boutique in the heart of Skørping, blending seasonal blooms, curated presents and local small-town charm.
Bogby 9520
2.9 km
Volunteer‑run book town in Skørping, where thousands of second‑hand volumes and a cosy, local atmosphere turn browsing into a slow‑travel highlight.
REMA 1000
2.9 km
No‑frills Danish discount supermarket in Skørping, ideal for stocking up on groceries, snacks and everyday essentials before exploring Rebild Bakker and Rold Skov.
Maggies Gemakker
2.9 km
A cosy Skørping fashion boutique offering timeless, mix-and-match women’s clothing and personal styling advice focused on longevity rather than fast trends.
FKN Genbrug / DCA Op Shop
2.9 km
Cozy volunteer-run charity thrift shop in central Skørping, where slow treasure-hunting, reuse and global solidarity all meet on one compact shop floor.
Folkekirkens Nødhjælp Genbrug
2.9 km
Small-town Danish charity shop where second-hand fashion, homeware and local community spirit come together to support global humanitarian work.
Meny
3.0 km
Modern Danish supermarket in Skørping Centret with fresh counters, local specialties and a strong wine selection – a practical one‑stop shop for travelers.
Garndamen
3.0 km
Intimate yarn shop in the heart of Skørping, brimming with colourful fibres, patterns and friendly expertise for knitters and crocheters of every level.
Kirkens Korshær Genbrug
3.0 km
Small-town Danish thrift shop where every second-hand bargain helps fund social work and offers a glimpse into everyday community life in Skørping.
Rold Forest Bike Shop
3.2 km
Denmark's premier mountain bike hub in the heart of Rold Forest's 50-kilometer trail network.
Louise Nørgaard
3.2 km
A cosy holistic beauty clinic and natural lifestyle boutique in small-town Skørping, blending personalised treatments, clean products and a calm, slow-paced atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Skørping Bodega
2.9 km
Down-to-earth local bodega in central Skørping, serving cold beers, simple drinks and small-town atmosphere from midday until late on weekends.
Happy Friday
5.4 km
Cozy Støvring cocktail bar with crafted drinks, warm lighting and a Friday-night feeling any day of the week.
City Bar Støvring
6.5 km
Unpretentious local bar in Støvring’s City Centret, offering simple drinks, friendly chat and a down-to-earth glimpse of everyday Danish small-town life.
Støvring Mc
6.7 km
Laid‑back neighborhood bar in small‑town Støvring, with a subtle motorbike vibe, simple drinks and a down‑to‑earth atmosphere on Viborgvej.
Loke's Ølstue
8.7 km
Suldrup’s no-frills bodega bar, where cold beer, local stories and small-town Danish pub culture come together in a cozy, lived-in corner on Aarestrupvej.
Carsten fenger
10.2 km
A low-key rural bar near Skørping where locals gather, travelers are welcomed, and simple drinks fuel long conversations in a relaxed countryside setting.
Rottehullet / Bodega
11.1 km
Laid‑back Danish bodega in quiet Arden, where cold beer, worn wood and easy conversation create a timeless neighborhood hangout.
Center Pubben ApS
13.4 km
Cozy neighborhood pub in Terndrup Center, pouring cold beer, simple drinks and warm small-town atmosphere in a no-nonsense Danish bar setting.
Skotten
18.6 km
Aalborg's casual neighborhood bar for relaxed socializing and unwinding with friends
Club 85@Nibe Festival
20.7 km
Small-town bar turned festival hotspot, Club 85 is where Nibe’s intimate music nights spill over into easygoing drinks, local charm and late-night singalongs.
Den Graa Kok Vinkælderen
20.9 km
Refined wine bar and cellar in North Jutland offering curated selections and elegant dining.
Jagtstuen
21.0 km
Traditional Danish bodega-style bar in central Hadsund, known for its cozy atmosphere and pioneering dementia-friendly approach to everyday social life.
Kælderen
21.0 km
Intimate basement bar at the heart of Hadsund's town square, open for evening gatherings Thursday through Sunday.
Jernkroen
21.1 km
Cozy harbor-side kro-bar in the heart of Nibe, where inexpensive drinks, a friendly courtyard and true small-town atmosphere invite you to linger.
ar
21.4 km
Unpretentious waterfront bar on Ved Stranden in Hadsund, where simple drinks, fjord views and small-town atmosphere create an easygoing evening stop.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Buddy Holly
21.7 km
Late-night disco hub in central Hobro, where locals and visitors pack the dance floor to chart hits, lights and drinks until the early hours.
Mjølner
21.8 km
Small-town Nibe’s late-night heartbeat, where a compact dance floor, loud party tunes and local crowds turn a quiet fjord town into a lively night out.
Mariager Fjord Golf
22.7 km
Mariager Fjord Golf blends a challenging 18-hole course with spectacular fjord views, laid-back Danish charm, and a welcoming clubhouse overlooking North Jutland’s scenic waters.
Night Cirque
24.5 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub in central Aalborg, where pulsing beats, bold lighting and a stylish crowd keep the dance floor alive late into the night.
LouLou Aalborg
24.7 km
Polished cocktails and high-energy club vibes collide at this compact, late-night hotspot on Aalborg’s legendary Jomfru Ane Gade.
Club Stygge
24.7 km
Compact, late-night Aalborg nightclub with loud party hits, simple cocktails and a tightly packed dance floor on bustling Vesterå.
ESCAPE CLUB & Shisha Lounge
24.7 km
Intimate nightclub and shisha lounge in the heart of Aalborg’s Jomfru Ane Gade, mixing DJ-driven dancing, drinks and hookah corners late into the night.
Club Wolf
24.7 km
Compact, late-night nightclub on Aalborg’s Jomfru Ane Gade, blending chart hits, strong weekend energy and a tightly packed dance floor in the city’s bar street hub.
C Night Club
24.8 km
Craft cocktails meet dance floor energy on Aalborg's premier nightlife street.
Hugos Garage
24.8 km
Experience Aalborg's iconic party vibe at Hugos Garage, a lively bodega-style bar and dance club on Jomfru Ane Gade featuring live music and classic Danish hospitality.
CLUB MOONLIGHT Aalborgs dansested for voksne
24.8 km
Adult‑only dance bar in central Aalborg, mixing 80s, 90s, 00s and current hits with cocktails and late‑night energy in an intimate courtyard setting.
Rocken
24.8 km
Aalborg's premier basement rock and metal nightclub, hosting live bands and DJ sets Friday through Sunday.
Casino Aalborg
24.8 km
Compact, adult-only casino in the heart of Aalborg, pairing classic table games and slots with a relaxed Nordic nightlife atmosphere inside a city-center hotel.
Randers Rave
40.5 km
Compact, bass-heavy nightclub in Randers NØ, where an unassuming façade hides a late-night dance floor fueled by rave-inspired lights, DJs and high energy.
Jazzens Venner
41.8 km
Experience live jazz performances in Randers' intimate and vibrant Jazzens Venner club.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
