Madum Lake: A Danish Natural Gem

Discover the pristine beauty of Madum Lake in Himmerland, Denmark: swim in crystal-clear waters, hike through ancient forests, and explore a haven for nature and history.

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Madum Lake, nestled in the heart of Himmerland, Jutland, is a captivating destination renowned for its crystal-clear waters and serene natural surroundings. As the largest lake in the region, it offers a refreshing escape for swimmers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike. The lake's exceptional water quality, a result of minimal algae growth, supports unique aquatic plant life and makes it a haven for families with young children due to its shallow shores. Surrounded by the lush Rold Skov forest, Madum Lake provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures, with marked trails inviting visitors to explore the diverse landscape and discover the area's rich history, including its role during World War II. Whether you seek a peaceful swim, an invigorating hike, or a tranquil retreat into nature, Madum Lake promises an unforgettable experience.

A brief summary to Madum Lake

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Local tips

Bring swimwear and a towel to enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake's clear waters, especially during the warmer months.
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the marked trails around the lake and through the surrounding Rold Skov forest.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, as there are several scenic spots perfect for a relaxing meal amidst nature.
Visit Store Blåkilde, a stunning natural spring located just a short hike from Madum Lake, to witness its crystal-clear waters and unique geological formations.
Download a map of the area's hiking trails beforehand, as some trails can be challenging and it's easy to get disoriented in the forest.

Getting There

Driving

From Skørping, follow signs for Madum Søvej. The drive is approximately 5 km and takes you directly to the lake's parking area. Parking is free. From Hobro, take route 180 towards Skørping, then follow signs for Madum Søvej. The drive is approximately 25 km. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.
Public Transport

From Skørping Station, take bus 104 towards Madum Sø. The bus stop is a short walk from the lake. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings, as services may be infrequent. A single bus fare costs approximately 24 DKK.
Walking

From Skørping Station, it is possible to walk to Madum Lake, following primarily Madum Søvej. The walk is approximately 3 km and takes around 45 minutes. Follow the signs towards Madum Lake. Be aware that there is no sidewalk for the majority of the walk, so caution is advised.

Discover more about Madum Lake

Madum Lake, or Madum Sø in Danish, is a stunning natural attraction located in the Himmerland peninsula of Jutland, Denmark. Covering an area of 2.04 square kilometers, it proudly holds the title of the largest lake in Himmerland. Its pristine, clear waters and the surrounding Rold Skov forest create a tranquil and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking respite in nature. Formed during the Quaternary ice age, Madum Lake is believed to have originated as a glacial kettle hole, a depression left behind by melting glacial ice. Over time, this depression filled with water, resulting in the picturesque lake we see today. The lake's water is exceptionally pure and clear, earning it the designation of a "Lobelia-lake," named after the rare aquatic plant Lobelia dortmanna, which thrives in such high-quality water. This clarity is due to the low algae growth, making it a refreshing and inviting spot for swimming. The lake's shoreline is characterized by shallow waters that gradually deepen, making it an ideal and safe place for families with young children to enjoy a swim. Bathing is permitted at two designated beaches, ensuring the preservation of the delicate ecosystem. The surrounding open pinewood forest adds to the scenic beauty, providing shade and a sense of seclusion. Beyond swimming, Madum Lake offers a network of marked hiking trails that wind around the lake and through the adjacent Rold Skov forest. These trails, marked with yellow dots, provide opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural landscape, observe local wildlife, and discover hidden gems like Store Blåkilde, one of the most stunning springs in the Rold Forest area, located just 1.5 km from the lake. The Rold Skov forest itself is a significant natural area, being one of the largest forests in Denmark. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including various bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The forest's varied terrain, with its rolling hills and dense woodlands, provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers and cyclists. Madum Lake's significance extends beyond its natural beauty. It is also a designated bird sanctuary of international importance, serving as a stopover for migratory birds like goldeneye and tufted ducks. In the spring and autumn, ospreys can be seen foraging on the lake's population of pike and perch. The lake also serves as an important breeding site for birds such as great crested grebes, mute swans, and coots. During World War II, Madum Lake played a role in the Danish resistance movement. It served as a drop-off point for supplies delivered by British aircraft. However, one such mission ended tragically when a group of resistance fighters was ambushed by German forces, resulting in the death of Niels Erik Vangsted and the capture of Poul Kjær Sørensen. Today, Madum Lake and its surrounding areas are protected as a nature reserve, ensuring the preservation of its unique ecosystem and historical significance. It is part of the Natura 2000 site number 18, which includes the Rold Forest and the Lindenborg River Valley. This designation highlights the area's importance as a habitat and protection area for birds. Despite its protected status, Madum Lake faces environmental challenges. Evidence suggests that the lake's ecosystem has been stressed by outside pollution, including airborne nitrogen from agricultural activities and the direct impact of bathers during the summer months. This stress is evident in the form of algal blooms and the widening of the lake's reed-covered headlands. Efforts are underway to mitigate these impacts and ensure the long-term health of the lake. Visiting Madum Lake is an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Denmark's Himmerland region. Whether you are swimming in its clear waters, hiking through the surrounding forest, or simply enjoying a picnic by the shore, Madum Lake offers a memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. To make the most of your visit, consider exploring the nearby attractions, such as Store Blåkilde, the Troll Forest, and Rebild Bakker. The area also offers opportunities for cycling, horseback riding, and fishing. With its rich history, diverse natural landscape, and abundance of outdoor activities, Madum Lake is a destination that appeals to a wide range of interests. Whether you're drawn to its crystal-clear waters, its historical significance, or its tranquil atmosphere, Madum Lake promises an unforgettable experience. It's a place where you can connect with nature, learn about the past, and create lasting memories.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mariager Fjord

15.2 km

Denmark's longest fjord winds through pristine Jutland landscapes, offering unspoilt nature, charming villages, and exceptional outdoor adventures.

Hotel BramslevGaard

16.8 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

16.9 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 Lystbådehavn

17.2 km

Denmark's most beautiful fjord meets a thriving sailing community in this welcoming maritime harbor.

Hotel Postgaarden Mariager

17.5 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

17.7 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

17.7 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.

Ivan Evigvår trold

18.0 km

Explore Ivan Evigvår Trold, a magical tourist attraction in Mariager, Denmark, where folklore meets artistry in a stunning natural setting.

Munkholmanlægget

18.0 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.

Lille Vildmose

18.8 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.

Kings Hill | Megalithic tomb

18.8 km

Explore the rich tapestry of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's premier design museum.

Hobro Lystbådehavn

19.3 km

Denmark's premier fjord marina with historic charm and modern comfort.

Panorama Walking Route

19.3 km

Discover Denmark's natural beauty on the Panorama Walking Route in Hobro, offering stunning fjord views, diverse landscapes, and a certified premium hiking experience.

Hotel Amerika

19.8 km

Experience tranquility and luxury at Hotel Amerika in Hobro, surrounded by the scenic Østerskoven forest and close to the beautiful Mariager Fjord, offering a unique blend of history and modern comfort.

Lille Vildmosecentret

20.0 km

Uncover the wild heart of Denmark at Lille Vildmosecentret, where immersive exhibits, rare wildlife, and scenic boglands await beside Limfjord.

Unmissable attractions to see

Nedkastningspladsen ved Madum Sø

1.6 km

A modest forest clearing near Madum Sø where Allied air drops once armed the Danish resistance, now a tranquil spot that quietly preserves a powerful wartime story.

Naturstyrelsen

2.9 km

Hike Denmark’s legendary Kvalitetssti Rebild, where glacial hills, heather moors, and a tapestry of history create a captivating natural escape near Skørping.

Nst Himmerland

Welcoming hostel near Denmark's scenic Rebild Bakker hills with modern rooms, friendly staff, and included breakfast.

Essential places to dine

MADUMSØHUS ISBAR

1.3 km

Homely countryside ice cream stop by Madum Lake, where classic Danish soft ice meets quiet Jutland landscapes and relaxed summer-evening vibes.

Mosskovpavillonen

3.3 km

Historic forest pavilion serving French-Danish cuisine beside a pristine lake in North Jutland's natural heart.

Restaurant Hul19

3.4 km

Laid-back Scandinavian clubhouse dining with sweeping views over Rold Skov Golfklub’s closing hole and the forested landscape beyond in Skørping.

Papas Pizza Og Kebab House V/Serdar Keskin

4.1 km

Casual neighborhood pizzeria and kebab house in central Skørping, serving generous Danish-style pizzas, kebabs and grill favorites at moderate prices all week.

Papas Pizza Og Kebab House V/Serdar Keskin

Bb Rold

5.9 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

6.0 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.

Rebildhus

6.1 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.

Top Karens Hus

6.2 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

6.2 km

Skørping's premier venue for group celebrations and traditional Danish dining

Terndrup Kro

7.9 km

Traditional Danish inn and restaurant in the heart of Terndrup, serving hearty local dishes with simple rooms and welcoming village atmosphere near Rold Skov.

Ice Sushi

10.9 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

11.1 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

11.2 km

Lively neighborhood bakery-café in central Støvring, serving classic Danish breads, pastries and celebration cakes from early morning until late afternoon.

Burger King

14.5 km

Flame-grilled burgers and quick meals in rural Jutland's convenient fast-food hub.

Motorvejsgrillen

14.6 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.

Small-town Danish thrift shop where every second-hand bargain helps fund social work and offers a glimpse into everyday community life in Skørping.

Holy Moses Wineshop

4.5 km

Characterful neighbourhood wine shop in Skørping, pouring American bottles, local vintages and sustainable delights from morning to evening every day.

KaLo Design

5.5 km

Discover handcrafted Danish furniture blending tradition and modern design at KaLo Design in Skørping.

Sc Møbler

5.7 km

Down-to-earth Danish furniture and home comforts in a small-town Arden showroom focused on practical, real-life living spaces.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Skørping Bodega

4.1 km

Down-to-earth local bodega in central Skørping, serving cold beers, simple drinks and small-town atmosphere from midday until late on weekends.

Rottehullet / Bodega

5.2 km

Laid‑back Danish bodega in quiet Arden, where cold beer, worn wood and easy conversation create a timeless neighborhood hangout.

Carsten fenger

6.6 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.

Center Pubben ApS

7.9 km

Cozy neighborhood pub in Terndrup Center, pouring cold beer, simple drinks and warm small-town atmosphere in a no-nonsense Danish bar setting.

Happy Friday

10.1 km

Cozy Støvring cocktail bar with crafted drinks, warm lighting and a Friday-night feeling any day of the week.

City Bar Støvring

11.0 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

11.3 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

14.7 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.

Den Graa Kok Vinkælderen

14.8 km

Refined wine bar and cellar in North Jutland offering curated selections and elegant dining.

Jagtstuen

15.0 km

Traditional Danish bodega-style bar in central Hadsund, known for its cozy atmosphere and pioneering dementia-friendly approach to everyday social life.

Kælderen

15.0 km

Intimate basement bar at the heart of Hadsund's town square, open for evening gatherings Thursday through Sunday.

ar

15.3 km

Unpretentious waterfront bar on Ved Stranden in Hadsund, where simple drinks, fjord views and small-town atmosphere create an easygoing evening stop.

Olivia

16.4 km

Casual Danish beer hall where locals gather for drinks, conversation, and authentic small-town hospitality.

Vognhjulet Pub

20.1 km

Hobro's legendary rock pub where authentic Danish hospitality meets decades of local tradition.

Torvebaren

20.3 km

Classic Danish bodega in central Hobro, serving traditional beers, darts and down‑to‑earth local atmosphere from morning coffee to late‑night rounds.

Experience live jazz performances in Randers' intimate and vibrant Jazzens Venner club.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Madum Lake: A Danish Natural Gem

A brief summary to Madum Lake

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Public Transport

Walking

Unlock the Best of Madum Lake

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Madum Lake

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mariager Fjord

Hotel BramslevGaard

Restaurant BramslevGaard

Mariager Lystbådehavn

Hotel Postgaarden Mariager

Mariager Kirke

Mariager Church

Ivan Evigvår trold

Munkholmanlægget

Lille Vildmose

Kings Hill | Megalithic tomb

Hobro Lystbådehavn

Panorama Walking Route

Hotel Amerika

Lille Vildmosecentret

Unmissable attractions to see

Nedkastningspladsen ved Madum Sø

Naturstyrelsen

Nst Himmerland

Store Økssø

Kløverstien I Skørping

Rold Skov Orienteringsklub

Rold Skov

Rold Skov Klub

Røverknolden

Midt inde i Rold Skov

Museum Rebild

Rebild Bakker Information

RebildPorten

VINGES VANDRING

Danhostel Rebild

Essential places to dine

MADUMSØHUS ISBAR

Mosskovpavillonen

Restaurant Hul19

Papas Pizza Og Kebab House V/Serdar Keskin

Bb Rold

Røverstuen

Rebildhus

Top Karens Hus

Westernhuset

Terndrup Kro

Ice Sushi

Bella Italia Støvring

MesterBageren Støvring

Burger King

Motorvejsgrillen

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

MilesAbove

Louise Nørgaard

Rold Forest Bike Shop

REMA 1000

Garndamen

FKN Genbrug / DCA Op Shop

Folkekirkens Nødhjælp Genbrug

Maggies Gemakker

Bogby 9520

Lenas Blomster

Meny

Kirkens Korshær Genbrug