Nakskov Fjord
Denmark's island-rich fjord where medieval heritage meets pristine waters and year-round water sports.
Nakskov Fjord is a stunning 12-kilometre inlet on the west coast of Lolland, Denmark, renowned as the Danish fjord with the most islands. This scenic natural area features approximately 10 small islands, pristine beaches, and exceptional water sports opportunities. The fjord's calm waters and unique light make it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, while the surrounding landscape offers cycling routes and hiking trails. The charming medieval town of Nakskov sits at the fjord's head, providing cultural attractions, museums, and local dining alongside nature-based recreation.
A brief summary to Nakskov Fjord
- Hestehovedet 5, Nakskov, 4900, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 8 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
- Visit Hestehovedet beach for the longest bathing jetty and warmest fjord waters in Denmark—excellent for both summer and winter swimming.
- Take the traditional postboat service to explore the fjord's islands, including Enehøje (home of explorer Peter Freuchen) and the remote peninsula of Albuen.
- Cycle the flat terrain around the fjord, including the country's longest dike cycle path, for a leisurely way to discover villages, beaches, and coastal views.
- Wander Nakskov's medieval old town to see half-timbered buildings, narrow cobblestone alleys, and the impressive 70-metre tower of St. Nikolaj Kirke.
- Use the Krible Crab Bridge at the nature park information point—children can observe crabs and small marine creatures in the shallow basin before releasing them.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
From Copenhagen, drive south approximately 150 kilometres via the E47 motorway toward Nakskov, a journey of roughly 2 to 2.5 hours. Follow signs to Nakskov town centre and Hestehovedet beach. Parking is available at Hestehovedet and throughout Nakskov's town centre. The fjord is accessible year-round by vehicle.
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By Train and Local Transport
Take a regional train from Copenhagen to Nakskov station, approximately 2.5 to 3 hours depending on connections. From Nakskov station, local buses or a short taxi ride (approximately 1 to 2 kilometres) reach Hestehovedet beach and the fjord's main attractions. Train fares typically range from 150 to 250 DKK for a standard ticket.
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By Bicycle
Lolland's flat terrain makes it ideal for cycling. Rent bicycles in Nakskov town (typically 80 to 150 DKK per day) and access dedicated cycle routes around the fjord, including the country's longest dike cycle path. Most attractions and villages are within 10 to 25 kilometres of Nakskov centre, reachable in 1 to 2 hours of leisurely cycling.
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By Postboat Service
From Nakskov harbour, the traditional postboat connects to fjord islands and remote settlements including Enehøje and Albuen. Service operates seasonally with varying frequency; contact the Nakskov visitor centre for current schedules. Journey times range from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on destination. Fares are typically 50 to 150 DKK per journey.
Nakskov Fjord location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Nakskov Fjord
A Fjord of Islands and Natural Beauty
Nakskov Fjord stretches approximately 12 kilometres along the western edge of Lolland, Denmark's southernmost island. Distinguished as the Danish fjord with the most islands, it contains around 10 small islands scattered across its wide, open waters. The fjord's special light and expansive vistas create a serene atmosphere that shifts throughout the seasons. The water remains relatively sheltered and calm, making it accessible for visitors of varying experience levels. The fjord is designated as a Natura 2000 protected area, reflecting its ecological significance and natural heritage.Islands, Peninsulas, and Hidden Corners
Exploring Nakskov Fjord reveals a landscape of discovery. The curved cape of Albuen extends into the fjord and can only be reached by boat at high tide, where visitors find historic houses and a former school. Enehøje island holds particular significance as the former home of Peter Freuchen, the world-renowned Danish explorer and adventurer. Langø, a cosy fishing village on the fjord's southern shore, offers fresh seafood and handmade crafts within cycling distance of Nakskov. The postboat service connects the town to these islands, providing a traditional and atmospheric way to explore the fjord's scattered communities.Water Sports and Coastal Recreation
Hestehovedet beach, located in the fjord's middle section, serves as a hub for water-based activities. The beach features one of Denmark's longest bathing jetties and is known for some of the country's warmest waters, welcoming swimmers year-round. Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and kitesurfing are popular pursuits, with local operators offering equipment and instruction. The Krible Crab Bridge at the nature park's information point features floating pontoons designed for canoes and kayaks, as well as a shallow basin where children can observe crabs and small creatures before releasing them back into the fjord. Mini golf and playground facilities cater to families seeking diverse recreational options.Medieval Heritage and Urban Character
Nakskov, the largest town on Lolland, sits at the fjord's terminus and serves as the cultural and commercial heart of the region. Founded in the early 13th century and chartered in 1266, the town has been a key trading centre for centuries. Its well-preserved medieval character is evident in narrow cobblestone alleys, half-timbered buildings adorned with hollyhocks, and historic merchants' houses. The Gothic St. Nikolaj Kirke, built in the 1200s, features a distinctive 70-metre tower visible across the fjord and is notable for fine ornamental carving. The Queen's Warehouse, dating from 1589, originally stored grain for the crown and now stands as a landmark along the harbour promenade.Cultural Institutions and Artistic Expression
Nakskov offers several museums that document the region's rich history. The House of History (Historiens Hus) explores local heritage, while Denmark's Sugar Museum reflects the town's industrial past as a major sugar-refining centre. The Nakskov Maritime Museum celebrates the town's seafaring traditions, particularly its shipbuilding heritage that dominated the region through much of the 20th century. Contemporary art enriches the townscape, including three large face sculptures by artist Thomas Kadziola and a striking red building sculpture by renowned artist Per Kirkeby on Jernbanegade. These artistic interventions blend historical preservation with modern creative expression.Cycling, Hiking, and Seasonal Rhythms
The fjord region is ideal for cycling, with flat terrain and dedicated routes including the country's longest dike cycle path. Hiking trails around Albuen Strand offer stunning views where Nakskov Fjord meets the Langelandsbælt strait. The landscape transforms subtly through the seasons, with summer bringing ice cream kiosks and outdoor dining at waterfront restaurants, while winter bathing remains popular in the fjord's relatively warm waters. Overnight accommodation options range from Nakskov Fjord Camping to the historic manor house Store Riddersborg near Langø, allowing visitors to experience the fjord at their own pace.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ravnsby Bakker
19.0 km
Rolling hills and ancient monuments where glacial history meets contemporary art on Denmark's flattest island.
Tranekær Castle
24.1 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.
Langdyssen "Kong Humbles Grav"
24.2 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.
FEMERN BÆLT Fehmarnbelt HOLZPLATFORM
26.7 km
Lang, skulpturel udsigtsrampe i stål og træ med fri panoramaudsigt til Femern Bælt-tunnelen og Lollands åbne kystlandskab – gratis og åben året rundt.
Monument for Danske Sømænd
36.3 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.
Marstal Havn og Marina
36.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich maritime heritage at Marstal Havn og Marina, a picturesque seaport in the heart of Denmark.
Marstal Søfartsmuseum
36.4 km
Vividly exploring Denmark’s maritime legacy, Marstal Søfartsmuseum immerses visitors in seafaring tales, model ships, and the living spirit of Ærø’s nautical heritage.
Aero Hotel
37.1 km
Experience modern comfort at Ærø Hotel, the largest hotel on Ærø Island, nestled in the historic maritime town of Marstal.
Hyllekrog Fyr
37.4 km
Discover Hyllekrog Fyr: A historic lighthouse nestled in a stunning nature reserve on Lolland's coast, offering breathtaking views, diverse birdlife, and a peaceful escape.
Strandbyen Havn
38.5 km
Charming marina at Marstal on Ærø, where historic Danish seafaring tradition meets vibrant harbor life amid scenic coastal views and island tranquility.
Saint Nicolai's Church
39.7 km
Svendborg’s oldest church and a quiet seafaring sanctuary, where red-brick medieval walls and a calm, whitewashed interior meet just off lively Gerritsgade.
Anne Hvide's House
39.8 km
Svendborg's oldest house: a ochre-yellow Renaissance gem where nobility, hospitality, and history converge.
Naturama
40.2 km
Explore Denmark's natural wonders at Naturama in Svendborg: an immersive museum experience for all ages, showcasing diverse ecosystems and inspiring environmental stewardship.
Fehmarn
40.2 km
Discover Fehmarn: Germany's sunniest island, offering stunning beaches, thrilling water sports, rich history, and a unique Baltic Sea escape for every traveler.
Danmarks Forsorgsmuseum
40.2 km
Explore Denmark's social welfare history at Danmarks Forsorgsmuseum in Svendborg, the best-preserved poorhouse in the Nordic countries, offering a poignant journey into the lives of the marginalized.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nakskov Fjord Camping
0.3 km
Beachfront family camping with fjord views, heated pools, and direct beach access near Nakskov.
Vandtårnet I Nakskov
3.1 km
Scenic beach and park on Lolland’s north coast, Bandholm Strand offers classic Danish bathing, iconic pier views, and peaceful moments by the Baltic Sea.
The Old Print Shop
3.3 km
A compact working print museum in central Nakskov where clattering presses, metal type and local traditions keep the craft of letterpress alive.
Danmarks Sukkermuseum
4.0 km
Discover how humble sugar beet turned Lolland’s rich soil and Nakskov’s factories into Denmark’s ‘white gold’ in this compact, story-filled industrial museum.
Peter Hansens Have
7.8 km
An expansive private botanical garden on Vestlolland, where lakes, woodland paths and a vast plant collection create a tranquil green escape near Nakskov.
Frederiksdal Kirsebærvin
8.7 km
Denmark's pioneering cherry wine estate where ancient winemaking traditions meet Nordic terroir.
Halsted Priory
9.0 km
Historic manor and former Benedictine priory on Lolland, where riverside parkland, a Neo‑Gothic hall and a medieval church trace centuries of Danish history.
Vindeholme
9.2 km
Early 20th‑century manor in Lolland’s linden woods, offering exclusive stays, celebrations and retreats a short stroll from the Baltic shoreline.
Reventlow-Museet Pederstrup
13.5 km
An 18th-century aristocratic estate where Enlightenment ideals and sensory history come alive in a romantic Lolland setting.
Lupinmark
14.7 km
A simple Lolland farm field turned into a shimmering sea of lupins, where color, scent and wide-open skies create a brief but unforgettable countryside pause.
Glentehøj
18.9 km
Discover Glentehøj, Lolland’s ancient Bronze Age burial mound, set amid peaceful countryside—an evocative window into prehistoric Denmark’s mysterious past.
Dodekalitten
19.2 km
Explore the Baroque splendor and vibrant gardens of Gavnø Castle, a historic gem in South Zealand, Denmark.
Oehlenschlägers Bøg
21.0 km
A storied beech on Langeland’s Baltic shore, where coastal light, quiet forest and a beloved national anthem come together beneath one sweeping crown.
Naturdestination Skovsgaard
21.6 km
Organic estate, wild-grazing herds and slow island living come together at this Langeland nature destination of trails, learning spaces and cosy stays.
Leuchtturm
21.7 km
Explore Hulbjerg Passage Grave, a remarkable Stone Age burial mound with walk-in chamber, panoramic island views, and a powerful sense of Denmark’s prehistoric past.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Fjorden
0.2 km
Relaxed, fjordside dining at Hestehovedet in Nakskov, where seasonal Danish dishes meet open water views and an easygoing coastal atmosphere.
Café Bita
3.0 km
Casual, centrally located café-restaurant on Nakskov’s Axeltorv square, serving hearty, good-value plates in a relaxed, unpretentious setting from lunch through evening.
Restaurant Sarajevo
3.0 km
Hearty Bosnian grill and steaks in a relaxed Nakskov neighborhood setting, blending Balkan warmth with Danish everyday comfort at moderate prices.
Gonzalez Feilberg i Nakskov
3.1 km
Refined, produce‑focused Danish cuisine in an intimate, candlelit dining room overlooking Nakskov’s Axeltorv – ideal for lingering lunches, date nights and small celebrations.
Madamblå
3.2 km
No‑frills Danish grill and chicken joint on Nakskov’s harborfront, serving hearty classics like burgers, hot dogs and pølsemix in a casual, everyday setting.
Mamartut Nakskov
3.6 km
Inventive Nordic dining in Nakskov, where Greenlandic inspiration meets local Lolland ingredients in an intimate, design-conscious restaurant on Østre Boulevard.
Skovridergården Hotel & Restaurant
4.3 km
Leafy parkland, hearty Danish cooking and simple hotel comfort meet at this traditional retreat on the tranquil outskirts of Nakskov on western Lolland.
Langø Grill & Fiskebar
4.8 km
Relaxed harbourfront fish bar in a red seaside house, serving local catches, gourmet fish & chips and burgers with wide-open views over Langø’s working harbour.
Restaurant "Den Fuldkomne Fisker"
12.4 km
Inventive coastal cuisine on the wild edge of Lolland, where local ingredients, “lopas” tapas and warm hospitality turn dinner into a countryside escape.
Brasseriet Søllestedgaard
12.6 km
Farm-to-table dining where biodynamic gardens meet craft brewery in rural Denmark.
Den gamle Digegaard
15.6 km
Thatched charm and Baltic views on Lolland's quiet southern coast
Restaurant Strandgården
16.1 km
Casual seaside dining on Lolland’s south coast, where classic Danish dishes, local fish and an ice-cream café meet Baltic views, dike walks and mini-golf fun.
Thorlins spisested
18.0 km
Cosy farm-to-table dining and a well-stocked gårdbutik on rural Lolland, where local meats, charcuterie and preserves showcase the flavours of the surrounding fields.
Spodsbjerg Kutterfisk
20.0 km
Harbor-side fish shop and casual café on Langeland serving fresh, local seafood, smoked specialties and easy take-away to enjoy on the terrace or by the sea.
Færgegårdens Mad og Is Cafe
20.0 km
Laid-back seaside grill, ice-cream bar and mini-golf course between beach and campsite in Spodsbjerg, serving classic Danish barbecue, local sausages and sweet treats.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fair Trade Lolland
3.2 km
Cosy fair-trade and gift shop on Nakskov’s main street, connecting Lolland’s shoppers with handmade crafts, ethical gifts and global stories from the Global South.
ANGELCENTRUM LANGELAND
20.0 km
ANGELCENTRUM LANGELAND is Langeland’s top angling center, offering fishing gear, fresh bait, expert advice, and boat rentals near Spodsbjerg Harbor.
Butik
21.8 km
Unmanned island farm shop on Ravnerydvej 11, open 24/7 for honest, self-service shopping with fresh, seasonal produce from the fields of Langeland.
Humble Loppehaller
24.3 km
Langeland's most eclectic indoor flea market, where vintage treasures and Danish nostalgia await discovery.
Kræmmerne i Kædeby
24.4 km
Eccentric island flea-market on Langeland, where farm buildings brim with kitsch, curios and second-hand treasures in a relaxed rural setting.
Tallulah
24.6 km
A small, stylish women’s boutique on Rødby’s main street, pairing Scandinavian-inspired fashion with relaxed, personal service on the island of Lolland.
XL tøj - Tøj til store mænd - Shop online og fysisk
26.0 km
Specialist plus-size menswear store in Rudkøbing, focusing on comfortable fits, extended sizes and practical everyday styles for big and tall men.
Pigekammeret v/Birgitte Nygaard Jensen
26.4 km
A cosy Rudkøbing boutique where Scandinavian-style gifts, home comforts and gourmet treats come together in one lovingly curated island shop.
Littlevillagepeople.dk
26.4 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.
Ostehuset Rudkøbing
26.4 km
Artisanal cheese and wine shop celebrating Danish heritage and international flavors in historic Rudkøbing.
Skind og Uld Rudkøbing
26.5 km
Eco-tanned Icelandic sheepskins and wool in a historic Danish market town.
Gine Rudkøbing ApS
26.5 km
Cozy women’s fashion boutique on Rudkøbing’s main street, blending Scandinavian style with relaxed island atmosphere in a small, welcoming space.
Tøjmanden Langeland
26.5 km
Expert menswear styling in the heart of Rudkøbing's charming island center.
Books & Paper Rudkøbing
26.6 km
Cosy island bookshop on Rudkøbing’s main street, combining Danish literature, games and stationery with local-flavoured gifts and practical supplies for everyday life.
Butik Knag I/S
26.6 km
Cosy Rudkøbing specialty shop with liqueurs, gourmet treats and beautifully arranged gift baskets that add local flavour to your Langeland visit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sports Baren
3.0 km
Lively local sports bar on Nakskov’s Axeltorv, pouring cold beer, showing big matches and serving simple bar bites late into the weekend night.
Anne's Bodega
3.1 km
Down-to-earth neighborhood bodega in central Nakskov, serving cold beers, local camaraderie and classic Danish pub atmosphere late into the evening.
Bodega Guldhornet
3.4 km
Classic Danish bodega in central Nakskov, where cold beer, sports on screen and a well-used billiard table create an easygoing local hangout.
Café Cosmo
3.5 km
Live music, karaoke, and Danish hygge on Nakskov's vibrant Østre Boulevard.
Paa Drejet Beach Bar
19.6 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.
Valhall
24.6 km
Casual neighbourhood bar in central Rødby, serving cold beers and simple drinks from late morning to evening in a friendly, small-town Lolland atmosphere.
Bodega Slap A
25.6 km
Casual waterfront bar in Rødby's harbor district—a relaxed social hub for drinks and dining.
Bodega Overfarten
25.7 km
Harborfront Danish bodega in Rødby, where locals, ferry workers and travelers share cold beers and warm conversation steps from the working port.
Basicbigband
25.8 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.
Langelands Jazzklub
25.8 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.
No. 10
26.7 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.
Kasket karl
26.7 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.
Sukker
26.8 km
Intimate wine bar where Danish heritage meets Nordic sophistication in historic Rudkøbing.
Dybendal
26.8 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.
Havnekiosken v/Ole Damgaard Hansen
27.2 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Scenic Backdrops
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly