Bøtøskoven Nature Reserve
Restored coastal forest on Falster where wild horses, grazing cattle and rich birdlife shape a quietly dramatic landscape behind the Baltic Sea dike.
Bøtøskoven is a coastal nature reserve near Marielyst on Falster, where reclaimed farmland has been transformed into a wild mosaic of forest, wetlands and open meadows. Roaming herds of free-ranging horses and cattle help shape the landscape, supporting rare birds, insects and plants. Marked hiking trails, bird towers and sandy paths invite you to slow, quiet exploration, with the roar of the Baltic Sea never far away.
A brief summary to Bøtøskoven
- Unnamed Road, Væggerløse, Marielyst, 4873, DK
- +4554731000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes: many paths are sandy and some sections can be damp after rain, especially near wetlands and ditches.
- Bring binoculars to make the most of the bird towers and to spot wild horses and cattle at a safe distance.
- Pack water and snacks, as there are no cafés inside the reserve and only minimal facilities near the entrances.
- If visiting in cooler seasons, dress in layers: the forest offers shelter, but the open dike can feel much windier and colder.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car from Nykøbing Falster
From Nykøbing Falster, driving to Bøtøskoven typically takes around 25–35 minutes, following main roads across southern Falster before turning toward Marielyst and the southern holiday house areas. The route is on paved roads throughout and suitable for any standard car. There is usually free roadside or small parking-area space near main access points to the reserve, but spaces can fill up on sunny summer days, so arriving earlier in the day helps. Fuel stations and supermarkets are located in and around Nykøbing Falster and Marielyst, while the forest itself has no services or charging points.
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Bus and short walk from Nykøbing Falster
Regional buses run between Nykøbing Falster and the Marielyst/Væggerløse area, with a typical journey time of about 35–50 minutes depending on route and stops. A one-way adult ticket usually costs in the range of 35–60 DKK, depending on zones and any discounts. Services are more frequent on weekdays and during the summer season, and less frequent in the evenings and on some weekends. From stops around Marielyst or the southern cottage areas, expect an additional 20–30 minutes of walking on flat terrain along local roads and paths to reach one of the entrances to Bøtøskoven.
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Cycling from Marielyst area
If you are staying in or near Marielyst, Bøtøskoven is a comfortable bike ride away along relatively flat coastal terrain. Depending on your starting point, expect 15–30 minutes of cycling on a mix of local roads, shared-use paths and quiet lanes that lead toward the southern edge of Falster. There is no fee for access to the reserve, and you can leave bicycles at informal parking spots or along the dike before continuing on foot. Wind conditions can significantly affect effort and travel time, especially on exposed stretches near the coast.
Bøtøskoven 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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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Bøtøskoven
From Farmland to Wild Coastal Forest
Bøtøskoven stretches along the southern edge of Falster, a low-lying landscape once dominated by fields and drainage ditches. Today it is a carefully managed wilderness, where dikes, canals and former farmland have been allowed to return to a more natural state. Shifting between scrub, woodland and open grassland, the reserve feels deliberately untidy in the best possible way, with fallen trunks, dense thickets and wet hollows left as habitat rather than cleared away. At its heart, Bøtøskoven is a story about coastal protection and nature restoration. The dike that runs parallel to the sea keeps the Baltic at bay, while the landward side has been reshaped to hold water and provide room for wildlife. Pools form after rain, reeds sway in the wind and sandy soil supports hardy shrubs that can cope with salt-laden gusts. It is a living demonstration of how a vulnerable coastline can double as a thriving sanctuary.Wild Horses, Grazing Cattle and Rich Birdlife
One of the most distinctive features of Bøtøskoven is its free-ranging herds of horses and cattle. These robust animals graze year-round in large enclosures, nibbling saplings, trampling reeds and opening up glades. Their constant movement and grazing patterns prevent the area from growing into dense, uniform forest, creating a patchwork of habitats where many species can coexist. For birdwatchers, the reserve is a rewarding place to linger. Elevated bird towers overlook wetlands and open meadows, where you might spot hunting birds of prey, flocks of geese and waders feeding in the shallow water. In summer, dragonflies patrol the ditches and butterflies drift along the edges of the paths, taking advantage of the sunny, sheltered clearings created by the grazing animals. Even casual visitors quickly sense how much life hides in the reeds and hedgerows.Trails, Towers and Quiet Encounters with Nature
Marked routes weave through Bøtøskoven, including a well-known five-kilometre hiking loop that gives a compact introduction to the area’s varied scenery. The paths are mostly flat and sandy, sometimes crossing slightly wetter stretches where sturdy shoes are useful. A network of smaller tracks branches off, inviting you to wander a little further in search of viewpoints, wind-stunted trees or a glimpse of horses in the distance. Despite its relatively modest size, the reserve feels surprisingly spacious. Long, straight lines of the dike contrast with the more intimate atmosphere under the trees, where you walk between birch, pine and willow, accompanied by the rustle of leaves and the calls of hidden songbirds. Occasional benches and simple information boards provide natural places to pause, read about the project and take in the landscape around you.Coastal Atmosphere Beside Marielyst Beach
Bøtøskoven sits just inland from the wide sands of Bøtø Strand and the broader resort area around Marielyst. This proximity to the coast shapes both the climate and the character of the reserve. On breezy days you may catch the salty tang of sea air and hear the low roar of surf beyond the dike, even while you are surrounded by bushes and meadows. The combination of forested shelter and easy access to the beach makes the area appealing in many seasons. On hot summer days, the trees offer shade and cooler air before or after a swim. In the shoulder seasons, when the beach feels wilder and emptier, the forest paths remain inviting for long, contemplative walks. Even in winter, the stark silhouettes of bare trees against the sky and the presence of hardy grazing animals lend the landscape a quiet, rugged beauty.Practical Experience and Responsible Visiting
A visit to Bøtøskoven is essentially low-key and self-guided. There are no grand visitor facilities or formal attractions, only simple amenities such as paths, a few seating areas and information panels explaining the restoration project and the role of grazing. This minimal infrastructure helps preserve the area’s sense of authenticity and keeps the focus on the natural environment rather than on built structures. Because of the free-ranging animals and sensitive habitats, it is important to treat Bøtøskoven with care. Staying on marked routes where requested, keeping a respectful distance from horses and cattle and carrying out any rubbish all help protect birds, insects and plants that rely on the mosaic of open grassland, scrub and wetland. In return, the forest offers a calm, immersive encounter with coastal nature that feels far removed from busy resort life, despite being only a short distance from holiday cottages and beaches.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Café Delias
5.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Marielyst at Café Delias, where traditional stone-oven pizzas and a vibrant atmosphere create a memorable dining experience.
Larsens Plads
5.1 km
Experience the enchanting flavors of Væggerløse at Larsens Plads, where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking coastal views.
Fuglsang Herregaard - Hotel + Events + Conference
13.4 km
Experience Danish history and culture at Fuglsang Herregaard, a beautifully restored manor offering tranquil stays, gourmet dining, and access to art and nature in Lolland-Falster.
Diocese of Lolland–Falster
14.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of the Diocese of Lolland–Falster in Nykøbing Falster, a captivating church and cultural landmark.
Falster Provsti
14.5 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Falster Provsti, a stunning church in Nykøbing Falster, Denmark.
Mindbjergs
14.6 km
Explore a fusion of Danish and Asian flavors at Mindbjergs, a culinary gem in Nykøbing Falster offering unique dishes in a warm atmosphere.
Vandtårnet I Nykøbing F
14.7 km
Historic concrete water tower turned art space and viewpoint, offering 147 steps to sweeping panoramas over Nykøbing Falster, Guldborgsund and the flat fields of Falster.
Touristinformation
14.9 km
Explore the charm and rich culture of Nykøbing Falster, a delightful coastal town perfect for your next Danish adventure.
Bjørnebrønden
14.9 km
Granite bear, flowing water and royal history converge in this compact fountain that anchors Nykøbing Falster’s main square and its stories.
Hotel Falster
15.7 km
Experience Danish hospitality at Hotel Falster in Nykøbing Falster, offering comfortable accommodations, on-site dining, and easy access to local attractions and the South Sea Islands.
Bellinge House- Bed & Breakfast. Wellness.
15.9 km
Discover tranquility and wellness at Bellinge House, a charming bed & breakfast in Nykøbing Falster, Denmark, offering holistic treatments and serene accommodations.
The Medieval Center
16.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of the Middle Ages at The Medieval Center in Nykøbing Falster, Denmark, with immersive experiences and historical reenactments.
Labyrint Lolland-Falster
16.9 km
Get lost in nature's embrace at Labyrint Lolland-Falster, where adventure awaits around every corner in this enchanting maze of fun, challenges, and unforgettable memories.
Holiday Lolland - Old farm
17.3 km
Experience the charm of rural Denmark at Holiday Lolland - Old Farm, a serene bed and breakfast near Nysted offering cozy accommodations, local cuisine, and a gateway to Lolland's beauty.
Horreby Lyng
18.5 km
Discover Falster's largest highland bog: Explore Horreby Lyng's unique blend of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich history, with trails for all levels.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bird watching tower
1.2 km
A modest wooden tower on southern Falster, offering wide skies, calm wetlands and an easy window into the birdlife just beyond Marielyst’s busy beach scene.
Fugletårn
2.2 km
A modest wooden tower on southern Falster offering wide skies, wetlands views and tranquil birdwatching moments amid the fields near Væggerløse.
Befrielsessten i Stavreby
4.3 km
Experience unparalleled birdwatching at Denmark's southernmost point, where migratory paths converge amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
Gedesby Strand
4.5 km
Long, dune-backed sands, shallow Baltic waters and a laid-back holiday-house vibe make Gedesby Strand a quietly classic Danish seaside escape.
Gedesby Gadekær
4.9 km
Gedser Lighthouse marks the southernmost tip of Denmark with sweeping Baltic views, historic maritime heritage, and dramatic coastal scenery at Gedser Odde.
Gedesby Møllelaug
5.0 km
Living windmill, local flea market and green village commons at Denmark’s southern edge, where coastal light, milling heritage and everyday life meet.
Det Falsterske Dige
5.0 km
Long, low and windswept, Det Falsterske Dige is Falster’s coastal backbone: a working sea wall that doubles as a tranquil walking and cycling route with wide Baltic views.
Udkigstårn
5.1 km
Compact coastal lookout tower and modern landmark in the heart of Marielyst, offering easy, free views over the resort town, dunes and holiday landscape.
Oldfruen
5.5 km
Cosy rooms, practical apartments and a welcoming café in the heart of Marielyst, just a short stroll from the long, family-friendly sands of Falster’s best-known beach.
Strandvejstorvet
5.7 km
Small but central, Strandvejstorvet is Marielyst’s relaxed village square, where beach life, everyday errands and seaside treats meet just behind the dunes.
Marielyst
5.8 km
A long, soft ribbon of Baltic sand backed by dunes, dyke path and a cosy holiday town, Marielyst blends easy seaside fun with big skies and quietly beautiful light.
Svinehave Voldsted
7.1 km
Modest earthworks in the fields near Gedser tell the quiet story of a medieval royal manor, long vanished yet still etched into the Falster landscape.
Sydpynten vingård
7.2 km
Denmark's southernmost vineyard, cultivating 900 vines at the tip of Falster island.
Birkemose Strandpark
7.4 km
Windswept Baltic shoreline, dog-friendly sands and wide Falster skies meet in this low-key coastal park on Denmark’s southern edge.
Gedser Vandtårn
7.6 km
Discover a world of oddities and local legends at Museum Obscurum in Nykøbing Falster, where cabinets of curiosities blur fact and fiction for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Thrysøe`s Kokkeri
3.3 km
Cosy family-style Danish cooking in the holiday heart of Marielyst, where classic comfort dishes meet the easy-going rhythm of Falster’s seaside evenings.
Admiralen
3.6 km
Homely Danish “mormor” cooking, hearty buffets and relaxed country-inn charm just a short hop from the beaches and holiday houses of Marielyst on Falster.
Schou's Restaurant
4.9 km
Hearty Danish comfort food, in-house butcher and easy takeaway a short stroll from Marielyst’s wide sandy beach on the south coast of Falster.
Haveje Marielyst
5.0 km
Casual beachside burger bar by the dunes in Marielyst, serving hearty comfort food, cold drinks and easygoing surf vibes just steps from the Baltic Sea.
Rutebilen
5.1 km
Cozy evening restaurant on Marielyst’s main beach road, serving hearty Danish and French-inspired classics a short stroll from the dunes and holiday bustle.
Ny Yaki Sushi
5.1 km
Casual seaside sushi and wok in the heart of Marielyst, perfect for beach-day lunches, easy family dinners and takeaway feasts for nearby holiday homes.
Skovgrillen og Pizza
5.3 km
Casual roadside grill and pizzeria near Denmark’s southernmost point, serving hearty pizzas and classic grill dishes for beachgoers, locals and road-trippers.
Café Livsstil i Marielyst
5.4 km
Casual beachside café in Marielyst's town centre, serving lunch, coffee, and evening drinks.
Hotel Nørrevang
5.4 km
Renovated seaside kro-style hotel in central Marielyst, blending Nordic simplicity, local seasonal cuisine, and easy access to Falster’s long white-sand beach.
Gedser Pizzaria
7.2 km
Crispy pizzas, grilled meats, and quick service in casual Gedser.
Restaurant Bramgåsen
7.5 km
Cozy marina-side restaurant at Denmark’s southern tip, serving locally inspired fish and game in a warm, art-filled dining room overlooking the Gedser coast.
Restaurant & Bryghus Købmandsgården
7.5 km
Rustic merchant’s house turned microbrewery restaurant, blending local beer, Danish comfort food, art and small-town culture at the southern tip of Falster.
Gedser Bodega
7.8 km
Experience local Danish pub life at Gedser Bodega—an authentic, friendly gathering spot near Gedser Odde, at the southern tip of Denmark.
Toldcaféen Gedser
8.0 km
Retro café and informal visitor hub in Gedser's heart, serving coffee, cake, and local charm.
Restaurant Kikko I/S
13.0 km
Casual Chinese and Asian-inspired comfort food with generous portions and a friendly local feel on Nykøbing Falster’s Vendsysselvej.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Marielyst kartoffelbod V / Bo Nielsen
3.8 km
Farm-fresh vegetables and artisanal delicacies celebrating Lolland-Falster's agricultural heritage
Crazy Outlet
5.2 km
Affordable fashion finds on Falster's bustling coastal shopping street.
WestWind
5.2 km
Beachside clothing and outerwear shop in Marielyst, equipping visitors with practical Scandinavian style for windy walks, sandy beaches and relaxed seaside days.
Butik Du Mille
5.3 km
A cosy Scandinavian fashion boutique on Marielyst’s main beach street, blending resort-ready style, personal service and seaside holiday charm on Falster.
Madame Butterfly
5.3 km
Characterful Danish boutique in Marielyst, blending colourful local fashion, Scandinavian design objects and in-house tailoring just moments from the Baltic beach.
BB By Børup
5.3 km
Boutique women’s fashion and footwear with a relaxed Scandinavian feel on Marielyst’s seaside main street in the holiday town of Væggerløse.
Nordic Home Living
5.3 km
A serene Marielyst boutique where sustainable Nordic interiors, timeless fashion and coastal hygge come together just steps from the Baltic beach.
Shoe And Style
5.3 km
Compact women’s fashion and footwear boutique on Marielyst’s main seaside promenade, blending practical coastal style with intimate, small‑town charm.
Casa Italy
5.5 km
Relaxed seaside fashion in a 1930s building on Marielyst’s main street, blending easy Scandinavian comfort with a hint of southern European flair.
Butik Marielyst
5.6 km
A snug little yarn haven on Marielyst Strandvej, where seaside holiday vibes meet shelves of colorful wool, cotton and Scandinavian knitting inspiration.
HEP Møbler
6.2 km
Specialist rattan and coastal furniture shop in Marielyst, offering crafted woven pieces, tailored cushions and practical advice for Falster’s many holiday homes.
Kik Ind
6.2 km
Contemporary fashion retail in the heart of rural southern Denmark.
Gedser garn og juleshop
7.7 km
A homely yarn and Christmas boutique in Gedser, filled with colourful skeins, handmade wooden gnomes and Nordic gift ideas for knitters, crafters and curious visitors.
DagliBrugsen Gedser
7.9 km
Small-town Danish supermarket in Gedser, doubling as a community hub and convenient stop for ferry travellers, campers and coastal road-trippers.
Toldbutikken
8.0 km
Authentic Danish gifts and local artisanal treasures in Gedser's vibrant maritime heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Café Daisy
5.1 km
Laid-back beachfront bar and café on Marielyst’s main strip, ideal for a casual drink or simple meal just moments from the wide sands of Falster’s popular resort.
Blå Stue
5.2 km
Cozy, blue-hued bar in the heart of Marielyst, blending Danish hygge, simple drinks and seaside village atmosphere just steps from the Falster shoreline.
Dr. Emil Laboratory, Marielyst
5.5 km
Experience Marielyst's vibrant nightlife at Dr. Emil's Laboratory, featuring live music, dynamic dance floors, and a lively summer atmosphere.
jazz på tværs
14.0 km
Volunteer‑run jazz room bringing serious live music to a small Danish town, with intimate concerts, close‑up sound and a focus on listening over nightlife.
Riverside Jazz Club
14.4 km
Intimate riverside jazz nights in Nykøbing Falster, where volunteer spirit, close-up performances and a cosy bar atmosphere bring live Danish jazz to life.
Jernbanecafeen Nykoebing Falster - Denmark
14.6 km
Unpretentious railway-side bar-café in Nykøbing Falster, where locals gather for relaxed evening drinks, conversations and classic, no-fuss Danish hospitality.
Marinestuen
14.7 km
Characterful sailor-style bar in central Nykøbing Falster, serving inexpensive drinks in a cozy, maritime setting filled with ships, memorabilia and local charm.
Den Sorte Engel
14.7 km
Moody brick walls, close-up live music and unpretentious Danish pub vibes make Den Sorte Engel the beating heart of Nykøbing Falster’s nightlife.
Billie Jean Bar
14.7 km
Authentic Danish smørrebrød and cocktails in the heart of Nykøbing Falster
Kontoret V/sonja Madsen
14.7 km
Intimate wine bar in central Nykøbing Falster, blending cozy Danish hygge with relaxed drinks and conversation-friendly ambience on charming Langgade.
falster falster
14.8 km
Small, social neighborhood bar on Skolegade in Nykøbing Falster, serving cold beers and simple drinks in an unpretentious, intimate Danish pub atmosphere.
Slottet Værtshus
15.0 km
Unpretentious Danish bodega on Slotsgade where locals, regulars and curious visitors share cold beers, billiards games and late‑night jukebox tunes.
Cafe Slotsgården V/Brian Fog Ipsen
15.0 km
Experience Danish hospitality at Cafe Slotsgården, Nykøbing Falster's cozy beer hall with a rustic charm and diverse beer selection.
Fortuna
15.1 km
Cosy, no-frills Danish bodega in central Nykøbing Falster, where cold beer, warm conversation and unhurried evenings capture the spirit of local nightlife.
Vinoteque Marittima
15.2 km
Floating wine and coffee bar on Nykøbing Falster’s harbor, blending intimate maritime charm with carefully chosen drinks, small plates and sunset-ready deck seating.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Billy Booze
14.4 km
Compact late-night disco in Nykøbing Falster with inexpensive drinks, loud hits and a casual dance floor vibe from Thursday to Saturday.
N.Y.K. Event
14.4 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Nykøbing Falster, mixing strong drinks, loud beats and a sociable dance floor that runs into the early morning.
Første sted
14.9 km
Compact, music-driven nightclub on central Slotsgade, offering an intimate, local slice of Nykøbing Falster’s late-night dancing and drinks scene.
Loke MC - Helheim
29.8 km
Rural Danish biker clubhouse with Norse-mythology flair, offering intimate late-night gatherings, loud rock playlists and a no-frills bar far from mainstream nightlife.
Pier To Heaven
47.2 km
Experience maritime charm and exquisite drinks at Pier To Heaven in Klintholm Havn.
Disco Da Capo
52.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Disco Da Capo in Rostock - a vibrant disco club with unforgettable music and lively atmosphere.
Nachtclub Bienenstock
52.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rostock at Nachtclub Bienenstock, a lively girl bar and night club offering unforgettable entertainment.
CLUB ZANZI
57.1 km
High‑energy waterfront nightclub bringing big‑city beats, flashing lights and late‑night dancing to the heart of coastal Nakskov.
Kulturkombinat Bunker - VEB GmbH Rostock
61.8 km
Discover the electric ambiance and diverse cultural events at Kulturkombinat Bunker, Rostock's premier nightlife destination.
The Camilla
62.8 km
Experience Rostock's vibrant nightlife at The Camilla, a premier girl bar offering entertainment, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Studentenkeller Rostock e.V. -Club-Biergarten
63.0 km
Discover Rostock's nightlife at Studentenkeller, where lively music and a friendly beer garden atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Helgas Stadtpalast
63.2 km
Discover the pulse of Rostock's nightlife at Helgas Stadtpalast, where electrifying music and a vibrant crowd create unforgettable experiences.
Greifclub Rostock
63.3 km
Explore the dynamic nightlife of Rostock at Greifclub, a premier venue for dance, live music, and unforgettable experiences.
LT Sportpalast GmbH
63.4 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at LT Sportpalast GmbH, Rostock's top night club for unforgettable nights and socializing.
Zwischenbau
63.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Rostock at Zwischenbau, a lively night club offering unforgettable music and dancing experiences.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Reel-Friendly
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Myth & Legends
- Weekend Getaway
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
