Kongestolen Viewpoint, Silkeborg
Short, steep forest climb to a modest hilltop bench with wide lake‑district views and a dash of royal legend in Silkeborg’s hilly Søhøjlandet.
Kongestolen is a forested hilltop viewpoint rising to 82 meters in Sønderskov near Slåensø, just outside Silkeborg. A short but steep walk brings you to a lone bench perched above the treetops, with wide views over the Silkeborg Lake District and the hilly Søhøjlandet landscape. Rooted in royal lore and 19th‑century visits from Danish monarchs, this quiet lookout offers a simple, scenic pause amid some of Denmark’s cleanest lakes and tallest trees.
A brief summary to Kongestolen
- Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes: the final ascent is short but steep, with roots, steps and potentially slippery sections in wet or icy weather.
- Combine the viewpoint with the 3 km trail around Slåensø for a fuller experience of the lake, forest and surrounding hills.
- Bring water and snacks; there are no facilities at the top and only limited seating besides the single bench.
- After visiting the viewpoint, walk a little along Kongestolsvej to see the towering Douglas fir, among Denmark’s tallest trees.
- Visit in clear weather for the best long‑range views toward Sindbjerg, Stoubjerg and the wider Silkeborg lake landscape.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car from central Silkeborg
From central Silkeborg, driving to the Slåensø area typically takes 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. You follow the local road network toward Gjessø and the lake district, then use signed access roads for Slåensø, where small parking areas serve walkers. Parking is usually free but spaces are limited, especially on sunny weekends, so arriving earlier in the day helps. From the nearest parking by Slåensø, expect an easy lakeside walk of 10–20 minutes before the short, steep path up to Kongestolen.
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Bus and walk from Silkeborg
Regional buses connect Silkeborg with stops along the roads west and southwest of town, with journey times typically 15–25 minutes from the bus station. A single ticket within the Midtjylland zone system usually costs around 20–35 DKK one way, depending on distance and time of day. From the nearest stop to Slåensø you continue on foot on minor roads and forest tracks; allow 20–30 minutes of walking before reaching the lake path and the signed trail up to the viewpoint. Services run more frequently on weekdays than late evenings and weekends, so check the timetable in advance.
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Cycling from Silkeborg
Cycling from central Silkeborg to the Slåensø and Kongestolen area is a scenic option, taking about 25–40 minutes each way at a moderate pace. You follow a mix of local roads and, in places, cycle‑friendly routes through the lake district. The terrain is gently hilly but manageable for most regular cyclists. There is no formal bike parking in the immediate forest, so bring a lock and secure your bicycle near the lake access or at a suitable spot before continuing on foot to the hilltop.
Kongestolen 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
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Kongestolen
A forested hill crowned by a king’s ‘throne’
Kongestolen is a compact hilltop viewpoint tucked into Sønderskoven south of Silkeborg, rising to 82 meters above sea level above the clear waters of Slåensø. The name means “the King’s Chair,” and at the summit a simple bench sits where legend places a Danish monarch gazing over the lake highlands. The hill itself is not huge, but it feels surprisingly lofty thanks to the steep slopes dropping toward the lake and the dense forest framing the view. A short path climbs from the western end of Slåensø up through the woods to the top. Roots, steps and a noticeable incline quickly lift you above the shoreline, and within minutes the lakes and ridges of Søhøjlandet open up between the trees. The setting is intimate rather than vast: just a small clearing, a bench, and the quiet of the surrounding pines and beeches.Royal stories woven into the landscape
The exact king behind the name Kongestolen is debated, which only adds to the place’s charm. Historical accounts connect the site to early‑19th‑century visits by King Christian VIII and Queen Caroline Amalie, who stayed at Silkeborg Hovedgård and were guided into the forest to admire the views. Other tales reach further back, mentioning Frederik II and Christian IV as frequent guests in the area’s hunting grounds, escorted by local landowners up to the best vantage points. Old maps begin to show the name Kongestolen from the mid‑1800s, suggesting that the viewpoint was formally christened during a period when Silkeborg was transforming from estate and woodland to emerging town and industrial center. Today the royal connection is subtle and atmospheric rather than marked by monuments: the “throne” is an ordinary bench, and the coronation comes from the scenery.Views over lakes, ridges and record‑breaking trees
From the bench at the summit, you look out across Slåensø, often cited as one of Denmark’s cleanest lakes, its dark, clear water tucked into a bowl of steep forested slopes. On clear days the wooded heights of Sindbjerg and Stoubjerg rise on the northern horizon, while the broader Silkeborg Lake District stretches away in layers of green and blue. Only a short distance along Kongestolsvej from the viewpoint stands one of Denmark’s tallest trees, a Douglas fir planted in 1895 and last measured at over 50 meters high. Knowing this giant towers nearby puts the hill’s 82‑meter elevation into perspective and underlines how vigorously the forest grows in the moist, sheltered valley. The combination of deep lake, high trees and folded terrain makes this corner of central Jutland feel almost alpine by Danish standards.A brief, steep detour from lakeside tranquility
Most visitors experience Kongestolen as a side trip from the 3‑kilometer path encircling Slåensø. The lake circuit is mostly level and easy, while the spur up to the viewpoint provides a short burst of exertion for those wanting to raise their heart rate. The climb is over quickly, but it is steep enough that sturdy footwear is sensible, especially in wet weather when roots and steps can be slippery. Facilities at the top are deliberately minimal: there is a single bench and plenty of tree trunks and rocks to lean against, but no shelter or kiosk. Down by the lake there are more places to sit, and in designated spots it is possible to swim in the exceptionally clear water. The contrast between tranquil shoreline and airy hilltop makes Kongestolen a rewarding stop on a half‑day outing around Slåensø.Seasonal moods in the Silkeborg Lake Highlands
Kongestolen has a different character with each season. In spring the forest floor brightens with fresh greens and birdsong echoes up from the water. Summer brings deep shade on the ascent and shimmering reflections on the lake, inviting cooling pauses by the shore before or after the climb. Autumn can be spectacular, with beech leaves turning copper and gold, creating a warm frame for distant views. In winter, when foliage is sparse and the air is crisp, the panorama expands and the structure of the hilly landscape becomes especially clear. The path can be muddy or frosty, so extra care is needed, but the reward is a quiet, uncluttered lookout over one of Denmark’s most distinctive inland landscapes. At any time of year, Kongestolen remains a modest, uncommercialised spot where the simple combination of forest, hill and story is enough.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lovisehøj
3.7 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
4.7 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
5.0 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Silkeborg Water Tower
6.2 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
6.5 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
silkeborg
6.6 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Randershøj
11.2 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Øm Klostermuseum
11.5 km
Discover Denmark's medieval monastic life at Øm Klostermuseum near Ry: Explore ruins, gardens, and artifacts revealing centuries of history and brewing traditions.
Store Troldhøj
11.7 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Landal Søhøjlandet
12.9 km
Escape to Landal Søhøjlandet in Denmark's Lake District: Family fun, water park thrills, outdoor adventures, and tranquil nature await in this scenic holiday paradise near Silkeborg.
Mossø
14.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mossø, Denmark's third-largest lake, offering hiking, watersports, and historical sites in the heart of the Danish Lake District.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
14.2 km
Discover Denmark's automotive history at Jutland's Automobile Museum in Gjern, showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles from the early 1900s to iconic post-war models, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's motoring heritage.
Murermester Rasmus Nielsens Mindesten
14.7 km
A hidden memorial stone honoring a master mason's legacy in Silkeborg's quiet forest.
Bølling Lake
15.9 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
The Uncovered Bridge
17.2 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Høgdal
1.6 km
An 18th-century hilltop farm near Silkeborg, preserved as a living window into Danish rural life amid the soft landscapes of the Søhøjlandet lake district.
FDF Outdoor Center Sletten
2.1 km
Denmark's premier outdoor recreation hub where free activities, mountain biking, and nature immersion meet modern comfort.
Shelterplads
2.2 km
Back-to-basics shelter living on the edge of Silkeborg’s forests, offering free, simple overnight stays in fresh air within easy reach of trails and lakes.
Himmelbjergegnens Tårnhøje Tårn
2.9 km
Historic hilltop tower above Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests, blending Denmark’s constitutional story with sweeping Jutland views and atmospheric woodland paths.
Labyrinthia
2.9 km
A countryside maze and puzzle park near Them, where 3D labyrinths, water mazes, dog-friendly challenges, and an indoor Puzzle Center turn getting lost into pure family fun.
De Små Fisk
3.0 km
Lakeside lawns, calm bathing water and simple shelters make this Silkeborg green space a relaxed gateway to the forests and waterways of the Silkeborg Lakes.
Duedal Bjerg
4.0 km
Experience historic steam boat journeys on Julsø and Silkeborg lakes, arriving at Denmark’s Himmelbjerget, surrounded by scenery and nostalgia.
Ulvehoved
4.1 km
A gentle hilltop in Silkeborg’s Nordskov, Ulvehoved offers forest trails, soft climbs and tranquil views across Denmark’s hilly lake highlands.
Aboretet Silkeborg
4.4 km
A quiet world of global trees in a 200‑year‑old Silkeborg forest, where wetlands, wildlife and easy woodland paths create a free, low‑key escape close to town.
Turbådene Himmelbjerget
4.6 km
Classic excursion boats carrying you from lakeside Ry through serene Søhøjlandet to the foot of Denmark’s famed Himmelbjerget for views, walks and fresh air.
Birkehøj Silkeborg
4.7 km
A modest Silkeborg hilltop with wide woodland views, Birkehøj offers a simple, quiet pause above town for walkers, cyclists and anyone craving a breath of open sky.
Odderpassager
4.7 km
A low wooden boardwalk skimming Almindsø’s surface, Odderpassager lets you drift between forest and lake at Østre Søbad, half pier, half tranquil nature trail.
Himmelbjerget
4.8 km
Historic Sletterhage Lighthouse offers panoramic sea views, maritime history exhibits, and wild coastal scenery at the southern tip of Mols Bjerge National Park.
Himmelbjergtårnet
4.8 km
A 25‑metre red-brick memorial crowning Himmelbjerget, offering sweeping lake-and-forest panoramas and a powerful glimpse into Denmark’s democratic story.
AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park
4.9 km
Freshwater worlds, playful otters and splash-filled playgrounds come together in Silkeborg’s lake-district aquarium and Danish wildlife park.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Aalekroen
1.7 km
Classic Danish kro-style restaurant on the shores of Julsø, pairing hearty traditional dishes and fried eel with sweeping lakeside views near Silkeborg.
Traktørstedet Ludvigslyst
2.0 km
Organic lakeside dining in a light-filled country villa above Lake Julsø, where local ingredients, house-baked bread and garden herbs define every seasonal plate.
Restaurant Karoline Amalie v/Rikke Brockstedt
3.9 km
Destination dining in the woods near Silkeborg, where seasonal Danish menus, thoughtful wine pairings and a calm, intimate room turn dinner into an evening-long occasion.
Café Himmelsk
5.1 km
Homemade pastries and mountain views in Denmark's legendary lake district.
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
5.1 km
Casual hilltop cafeteria at Himmelbjerget, serving classic Danish comfort food and ice cream with wide views over the Silkeborg lakes and surrounding forests.
Orangeriet
5.2 km
Seasonal Nordic cuisine in a historic orangery surrounded by gardens and natural light.
Gl. Skovridergaard
5.3 km
Historic forester’s lodge turned serene hotel, restaurant and conference haven, wrapped in parkland with forests, lakes and Silkeborg’s cultural life close at hand.
Resturant indelukket
5.3 km
Modern Danish comfort food on the edge of Silkeborg’s Indelukket park, where classic flavors, fresh ingredients and riverside greenery create an easygoing dining escape.
Skovbakken Silkeborg
6.2 km
Hilltop event restaurant with sweeping river and harbor views, hosting weddings, celebrations and meetings above Silkeborg’s green waterfront.
Ristorante Pizzeria Roma
6.3 km
Unpretentious Italian comfort in central Silkeborg, with stone-oven pizzas, generous pasta plates and a cosy, family-friendly dining room ideal for relaxed evenings.
Restaurant Spyd
6.3 km
Charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs and Middle Eastern specialties in casual Silkeborg dining.
Tin's
6.4 km
Casual, cozy Vietnamese cooking in central Silkeborg, serving steaming pho, crisp banh xeo and fresh herbs in a relaxed, modern setting ideal for lunch or dinner.
Regatta Sandwich
6.4 km
Freshly baked Italian sandwiches in the heart of Silkeborg—quality ingredients, casual charm.
Asian Restaurant & Café
6.4 km
Cozy Southeast Asian flavors in the heart of Silkeborg, pairing Vietnamese and Thai dishes with a warm, relaxed atmosphere on lively pedestrian Søndergade.
La Casita
6.4 km
Colorful Mexican comfort food, tequila and hygge in a cozy, rustic cantina right on Bindslevs Plads in the heart of Silkeborg.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nordic Yarn - a woolly affair
4.0 km
A cosy, family-run Nordic wool shop on a Jutland farm near Ry, where Icelandic and Norwegian yarn fill the shelves and horses graze just outside.
Ørneboden
5.0 km
Small hilltop souvenir shop on Himmelbjerget, pairing simple treats and mementos with big views over Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests above Ry.
Bjerghytten
5.0 km
Bjerghytten: Savor Ice Cream Delights Amidst Himmelbjerget's Scenic Beauty
Ugleboden
5.0 km
Casual ice cream and souvenir stall on Himmelbjerget, adding a sweet, no-frills pause to hikes and family outings in the wooded hills above Ry.
Bjerg-kiosken
5.1 km
Compact hilltop kiosk on Himmelbjerget serving ice cream, snacks and drinks to walkers and day-trippers at one of Denmark’s most iconic viewpoint areas near Ry.
The Silkeborg Ski Shop
6.2 km
Specialist ski outfitter in Silkeborg where Scandinavian style, expert advice and quality gear come together before you head for the winter mountains.
Laven Antikvariat
6.5 km
Rare books, organic coffee, and genuine warmth in a charming village shop.
Pindhus.dk
6.5 km
Hand-curated Scandinavian design, gifts, and lifestyle treasures in the heart of Silkeborg.
t.i.n.g.
6.5 km
Scandinavian design paradise in central Silkeborg, offering two floors of curated furniture, lighting, interiors and gifts in a calm, inspiring boutique setting.
Huset Lene Bak Silkeborg
6.5 km
Welcoming women’s fashion boutique in central Silkeborg, specialising in quality jeans, flattering fits and personal styling in a calm, uncluttered setting.
Fair Retro
6.5 km
Curated mid-century and retro furniture in a cosy Silkeborg shop, where vintage Danish design, characterful lighting and sustainable home inspiration fill every corner.
Buksecompagniet
6.5 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Femilet
6.5 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
Bivs.dk
6.6 km
Silkeborg's dedicated children's clothing and toy specialist with extended daily hours.
Christoffersen Silkeborg A/S
6.6 km
Established jeweller on Silkeborg’s main square, blending classic gold and silver pieces, quality watches and attentive service in a calm, central setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bodega Hjørnet
6.1 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Bakkens bodega
6.1 km
Unpretentious beer hall on Århusvej where locals, cold drafts and simple pub fare create a slice of everyday Silkeborg life from late morning to late evening.
Cafe' Paradis
6.2 km
A compact, old‑school bodega in central Silkeborg, serving cold beers, local atmosphere and late‑night conversation in an unpretentious, lived‑in bar setting.
The Admiral Pub
6.4 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
Café Kling Klang
6.4 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Sportspubben Målet
6.4 km
A cozy, no-frills sports pub in central Silkeborg, where big screens, cold beer and local chatter turn every match day into a shared living room.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
6.5 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Roxy Malt
6.5 km
Irish-inspired Silkeborg pub with live music, quizzes, speciality beers and a cosy courtyard, blending retro charm with late-night energy in the town centre.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
6.5 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
Rabalder Bar
6.5 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
Bifrost Sports Pub
6.6 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
6.6 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
Kaffebaren
6.6 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
6.7 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
The Smoke Pub
7.1 km
A classic Silkeborg bodega on Borgergade, where smoke, cold beer and easy conversation create an unpretentious local living room from late morning to late night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Adventure
- Fun-filled
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
