Rebild National Park
Denmark's historic heathland and forest wilderness where Danish-American heritage meets pristine nature.
Denmark's historic national park spanning rolling heathland hills and Denmark's largest forest, Rold Skov. Founded in 1912 by Danish-Americans, Rebild offers scenic hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and cultural heritage sites. The park is famous for hosting the world's largest 4th of July celebration outside the United States, attracting thousands annually. Explore ancient burial mounds, limestone mines, charming villages, and pristine natural landscapes across 80 square kilometers of protected wilderness.
A brief summary to Rebild National Park
- Rebildvej 31, Skørping, 9520, DK
- Duration: 2 to 8 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in late summer (August-September) when heather flowers blanket the hills in purple blooms, creating stunning natural scenery and optimal hiking conditions.
- Start at Rold Storko or RebildPorten visitor center to obtain detailed trail maps and local guidance before exploring the extensive network of hiking and biking routes.
- Combine outdoor activities with cultural visits to Thingbæk Chalk Mines and Top Karen's House to understand the region's geological and Danish-American heritage.
- Climb to Sønderkol viewpoint (102 metres) for spectacular panoramic views across Lindenborg Ådal and the surrounding landscape, especially rewarding at sunset.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for nature photography; the diverse habitats support seasonal bird populations and dramatic landscape compositions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car from Aalborg
Drive approximately 20 minutes from Aalborg city centre via Route 16 heading north toward Skørping. Follow signs to Rebildvej and the main park entrance. Parking is available at Rold Storko and RebildPorten visitor centre. The journey covers roughly 25 kilometres on well-maintained roads. Petrol costs approximately 3-5 DKK depending on vehicle efficiency.
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Bus from Aalborg
Regional buses operate from Aalborg central station to Skørping, taking approximately 30-40 minutes depending on route and stops. Service frequency varies seasonally but typically runs several times daily. Single tickets cost approximately 50-70 DKK. From Skørping town centre, the park entrance is accessible via a 15-20 minute walk or local taxi service (approximately 100-150 DKK).
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Bicycle from Skørping
Skørping village is the closest gateway, approximately 3-5 kilometres from main park entrances via quiet country roads and dedicated cycling paths. Journey time is 15-25 minutes depending on fitness level and route. The terrain becomes hilly as you approach the park. No rental facilities at the park entrance, so arrange bike hire in Skørping town beforehand.
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Guided Tour from Aalborg
Several tour operators in Aalborg offer half-day and full-day guided experiences to Rebild National Park, typically including transport, interpretation, and structured hiking. Tours depart from central Aalborg and cost approximately 400-800 DKK per person depending on duration and group size. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season and around the 4th of July festival.
Rebild National Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Rebild National Park
A Park Born from Transatlantic Dreams
Rebild National Park emerged from a remarkable story of Danish-American heritage. In 1911, a group of Danish immigrants purchased over 80 hectares of heather-covered land in the Rebild municipality to create a gathering place where they could celebrate their adopted homeland while honoring their Danish roots. The park was officially established in 1912, making it one of Denmark's two authentic national parks. Every 4th of July, the hills come alive with the world's largest and only official American Independence Day celebration held outside the United States, drawing thousands of visitors who gather to commemorate both American and Danish traditions.Landscape Shaped by Glacial Forces
Rebild Bakker's distinctive topography tells a story written by ancient glaciers. The rolling hills that dominate the landscape are not natural mountains but rather formations created by glacial gorges carved into the sides of streams over millennia. From Sønderkol, one of the area's highest points at 102 metres above sea level, visitors gain spectacular views across Lindenborg Ådal and the surrounding terrain. The lime-rich underground creates countless springs where crystal-clear groundwater seeps from chalk deposits, forming a beautiful network of watercourses that flow through the landscape. Throughout the year, the open heathland transforms with seasonal vegetation: heather flowers blanket the hills in late summer, while crowberries, blueberries, cranberries, and juniper berries provide natural color and sustenance for wildlife.Rold Skov: Denmark's Largest Forest
Surrounding the Rebild hills on three sides lies Rold Skov, Denmark's largest forest spanning 80 square kilometers. This ancient woodland comprises coniferous, deciduous, and mixed forest, interspersed with stunning lakes and charming waterholes that create an ever-changing landscape. The forest holds its own historical significance, with Bronze Age and Bronze Stone Age burial mounds scattered throughout, and local legends of robbers who once ruled these woods. Today, visitors encounter only friendly modern-day "robbers" at the Robbers' Camp, a quirky cultural attraction. The hilly terrain provides wonderful challenges for mountain bikers, while forest roads and leafy lanes offer gentler cycling routes. The combination of forest and open heathland creates diverse habitats supporting native birds and seasonal flora.Museums and Cultural Heritage
The park encompasses several distinctive museums that illuminate the region's rich history. Thingbæk Kalkminer (Thingbæk Chalk Mines) stands as one of Denmark's most distinctive museums, showcasing limestone mining heritage alongside striking sculptures. Visitors can explore the geological wonders of chalk extraction and understand the limestone that shaped the landscape. Top Karen's House provides insights into Danish emigration to America and the cultural significance of the 4th of July celebration. The Møllehistorisk Samling (Collection of Molinological History) focuses on historic water mills, wind mills, and animal-driven mills, while Havno Mølle, built in 1842, stands as Northern Jutland's oldest windmill, beautifully positioned between the Mariager Fjord inlet and surrounding forests.Outdoor Activities for All Seasons
The park's diverse terrain accommodates numerous recreational pursuits. Hiking trails of varying difficulty wind through the hills and forest, with the yellow trail leading to enchanted forest sections and viewpoints. Mountain biking enthusiasts find challenge in the hilly terrain, while casual cyclists enjoy forest roads. Lindenborg Stream invites canoeists to paddle calm waters, and the numerous lakes and streams attract anglers seeking trout and pike. Horseback riding trips through Rold Forest range from short 6-kilometre journeys to longer explorations. Swimming opportunities abound in designated forest lakes, while birdwatchers discover seasonal species throughout the year. For those seeking immersion in nature, outdoor sleeping options include hammock camping, tent sites, and shelters scattered throughout the forest.Gateway Communities and Practical Access
Small villages surrounding the park serve as gateways to Rebild's natural wonders. Skørping functions as the primary access point, while other charming settlements offer local shops, traditional Danish cuisine, and cozy accommodations. Rold Storko provides a natural stopping point with lunch facilities and beautiful views of Gravlev Ådal. The RebildPorten visitor center offers maps, information, and guidance for planning explorations. Lunch huts and outlook towers positioned throughout the forest provide rest stops and panoramic vistas. The proximity to Aalborg, just 20 minutes away, makes Rebild accessible for day trips while maintaining its peaceful, protected character.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
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Nature Escape
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Scenic Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
