Restaurant Vestermølle, Skanderborg
Historic lakeside mill turned modern Nordic restaurant, blending seasonal Danish flavours with broad views over Skanderborg Lake and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.
Set in a former mill right on the shores of Skanderborg Lake, Restaurant Vestermølle blends Danish country charm with a clean, modern dining room and broad windows over the water. The kitchen draws on the Nordic tradition, working with seasonal local produce for lunch menus, classic Danish dishes, and special brunches and feasts in the spacious function rooms. It is also a popular venue for weddings, celebrations, and meetings, pairing well-executed food with a quietly scenic lakeside backdrop just outside Skanderborg.
A brief summary to Vestermølle
- Oddervej 80, Skanderborg, 8660, DK
- +4586522000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-9:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Reserve a window table if possible; the lakeside views are a major part of the experience, especially around sunset when the light over Skanderborg Lake is most atmospheric.
- Plan time for a short walk along the lake before or after your meal; the paths around the old mill buildings offer peaceful views and photo opportunities in all seasons.
- Check current opening hours and any special set menus in advance, as offerings can vary by day of the week and season, and the restaurant is typically closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
- If you have dietary requirements, mention them when booking; the Nordic-style, seasonal approach usually allows the kitchen to adapt dishes with some notice.
- For larger celebrations or meetings, inquire about the dedicated function rooms overlooking the water, which can be arranged for anything from brunches to formal dinners.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Vestermølle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Clear Skies
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Hot Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Vestermølle
Lakeside Dining in a Historic Mill Setting
Restaurant Vestermølle occupies an old mill property on the southern shore of Skanderborg Lake, where the water laps gently just beyond the windows. The long, low buildings and their red roofs sit close to the shoreline, with lawns, paths and old trees softening the transition between restaurant and lake. Inside, the main dining room feels airy rather than rustic, with large panes of glass framing the view and simple Scandinavian furnishings allowing the landscape to take centre stage. The sense of place is strong: you are a short distance from Skanderborg town, yet the lake and surrounding countryside create an almost rural atmosphere. In summer, doors often open to terraces and outdoor seating, where the sounds shift from clinking cutlery to birdsong and the subtle wash of the lake. In cooler seasons, the focus moves indoors, and the broad windows become living paintings of mist, low winter light or drifting clouds over the water.Nordic-Inspired Kitchen with Seasonal Focus
The kitchen takes its cues from the Nordic tradition, with an emphasis on clean flavours, seasonal produce and carefully handled local ingredients. Lunch often features updated takes on Danish staples – think open sandwiches with generous toppings, fish dishes that nod to classic smørrebrød, and plates built around fresh greens, root vegetables and herbs. Robust favourites such as roast meats, pan-fried fish and well-made sauces show up on set menus and special evenings, giving the food a comforting, familiar edge. Presentation tends toward uncluttered plates where colours and textures are allowed to stand out without being fussy. Light, crisp elements and vibrant garnishes balance richer components like slow-cooked meats or creamy dressings. Throughout the year, the menu shifts with what is in season, from early spring herbs and new potatoes to autumn mushrooms and heartier vegetables, so repeat visits can feel subtly different from one month to the next.Brunches, Feasts and Celebrations by the Water
Beyond everyday lunches and dinners, Vestermølle is known locally as a setting for larger gatherings. Spacious function rooms open toward the lake, giving wedding parties, anniversaries and milestone birthdays generous views and natural light. Long tables dressed simply with white linen and candles work with the existing architecture rather than competing with it, creating an atmosphere that can stretch from relaxed to formal depending on the occasion. Weekend brunches and themed feasts bring a more abundant style of dining, with buffets or multi-course set menus that encourage leisurely meals. These events often make use of the whole property, with guests drifting outside between courses to walk a short loop by the water or take photos against the backdrop of lake and mill buildings. The restaurant’s dual role as both everyday eatery and celebration venue is part of its character, and the staff are used to juggling intimate tables and larger groups.Surroundings, Walks and Changing Seasons
Part of the pleasure of coming to Vestermølle lies in what surrounds it. Paths wind along the lake and through the gently rolling landscape, inviting a short stroll before or after a meal. The shoreline changes personality with the seasons: on clear summer days the water glitters and small boats cross the surface, while in winter the colours soften into greys and blues, and low sun or mist gives the area a more contemplative feel. Birdlife is easy to notice here, from ducks near the shore to calls from the trees behind the buildings. The combination of open water and sheltering woodland means that even a brief walk can feel like a small nature escape. Many diners choose to arrive a little early or linger afterwards just to absorb the quiet setting, making the restaurant feel more like a destination than a simple roadside stop.Atmosphere and Practical Details for Visitors
Inside, the atmosphere balances casual and polished. Tables are spaced to allow conversation, and the décor relies on natural materials and muted colours rather than strong design statements, reinforcing a relaxed, contemporary Danish feel. Large windows ensure that even on darker days the rooms feel open rather than closed in, and at certain times of day the low light over the lake can be especially striking from a window table. The restaurant operates primarily as a lunch and evening venue from midweek through the weekend, with Mondays and Tuesdays usually quiet. It also functions as a café-style stop at certain times, pouring coffee and lighter options for those exploring the lakeshore. Because of its popularity for events and groups, advance reservations are advisable for main mealtimes, particularly on Fridays, Saturdays and on sunny days when everyone is drawn to the water.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Det gamle vandtårn
4.1 km
Skanderborg's 41.5-meter castle-style water tower from 1908—a striking symbol of industrial heritage and urban progress.
Ejerbavnehøj MØDESTED
7.9 km
Denmark's third-highest peak crowned by a 1924 monument to national reunification, offering panoramic views and historic significance.
Genforeningssten på Ejer Bavnehøj
9.8 km
Denmark's third-highest point crowned with a monumental 1920 reunification memorial and iconic tower.
Ejer Bavnehøj
9.8 km
A modest Danish hill with a mighty horizon, Ejer Bavnehøj blends reunification history, beacon legends and big-sky views into an easy, rewarding countryside stop.
Horsens Tourist Information Centre
18.8 km
Experience the heart of Danish comedy at Odense Comediehuus, where culture and laughter unite in the vibrant city center.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
18.8 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
19.2 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Marselisborgmonumentet
19.2 km
Standing tall in Mindeparken, Marselisborgmonumentet honors Danish World War I volunteers with solemn beauty, monumental sculpture, and panoramic bay views near Aarhus.
Bænken med den smukkeste udsigt
19.4 km
Aarhus' most celebrated viewpoint—a timeless wooden bench offering sweeping bay vistas and quiet urban refuge.
Saksild Beach
19.4 km
Discover Denmark's best-kept secret: Saksild Beach, a family-friendly paradise with soft sands, shallow waters, and endless coastal charm on the Odder coast.
Bilka Horsens
20.1 km
Experience the rich theatrical heritage of Odense at the historic Comediehuus, a cultural landmark since its inception.
Rådhusparken
20.4 km
An elegant city park at Aarhus’ core, Rådhusparken blends iconic architecture, sculptures, and tranquil green spaces right beside the city hall.
Den Svangre
20.4 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Agnete og Havmanden
20.4 km
Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.
ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
20.5 km
Iconic contemporary art museum in Aarhus known for bold exhibitions, interactive experiences, and the mesmerizing rooftop rainbow panorama overlooking the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skulptur, Dronning Dagmars dreng
1.9 km
A quiet bronze tribute to Queen Dagmar’s child, set between lake and forest outside Hotel Skanderborghus in Skanderborg’s tranquil parkland.
Fugletårn
2.7 km
Unassuming yet atmospheric, Skanderborg’s Fugletårn lifts you above reeds and water for calm, close-up encounters with East Jutland’s wetland birdlife all year round.
Pilbrodalen
3.9 km
A sinuous Ice Age valley south of Stilling-Solbjerg Lake, where steep slopes, moors and ponds create a quietly dramatic East Jutland walking landscape.
Runddyssen
4.0 km
A modest Neolithic burial mound tucked into the fields near Skanderborg, offering a quiet, atmospheric glimpse into Denmark’s Stone Age past.
Mølholmgård købmandsmuseum
5.4 km
A cosy, private farm museum where a recreated village shop and rows of vintage coffee tins bring Denmark’s rural mercantile past vividly back to life.
Tåning Å
6.1 km
A serene stream through Denmark's lake highlands, perfect for canoeing and wildlife observation.
Justenborg Vin & Juletræer
7.0 km
Cut your own Christmas tree and taste estate-grown Danish wine in Skanderborg's countryside.
Møllehjulet
9.8 km
Compact circular kiosk and information hub on Denmark’s rooftop at Ejer Bavnehøj, combining refreshments, facilities and landscape insight amid sweeping views.
Genforeningstårn på Ejer Bavnehøj
9.8 km
Step inside a living time capsule at Mølholmgård Købmandsmuseum, where the charm of Denmark’s rural merchant life is preserved in a historic village setting.
Møllehøj, DK's highest hill
10.0 km
A modest hill with a millstone marker, Møllehøj turns Denmark’s highest natural point into a gentle countryside detour packed with quiet geographic significance.
Møllehøj
10.0 km
Stand on Denmark’s highest natural point atop a quiet Jutland farm hill, marked by a lone millstone and wide views across the gently rolling Ejerbjerge.
Yding Skovhøj
10.3 km
Ancient Bronze Age burial mounds, gentle forest trails and a long-running “highest point” debate meet atop this modest yet characterful hill in East Jutland.
Yding Skovhøjs parkeringsplads
11.0 km
Denmark's highest point awaits at this forest gateway, crowned with ancient Bronze Age mounds.
Mossø
11.1 km
Jutland’s largest lake, where wide horizons, protected birdlife and easygoing outdoor adventures meet in the rolling Danish Lake Highlands.
Bro til Bendixminde
11.7 km
A slender pedestrian bridge soaring over the Stampemølle valley, linking Odder’s west side with Bendixminde and turning an everyday school route into a scenic walk.
Essential places to dine
Vestermølle
0.0 km
Historic lakeside mill turned modern Nordic restaurant, blending seasonal Danish flavours with broad views over Skanderborg Lake and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.
Dayny Restaurant
1.8 km
Casual neighborhood pizzeria and takeaway in Skanderborg’s Højvang Center, serving generous pizzas, grills and rolls in a relaxed, everyday setting.
Lunch Time ApS
2.1 km
Weekday Danish lunch spot in Skanderborg's town center, open 7:30 AM–5:00 PM Monday–Friday.
Restaurant Sølyst
2.2 km
Lakeside Danish dining on the edge of Skanderborg Lake, where classic “from soil to table” cooking meets relaxed marina views and long, light-filled evenings.
Rasses Skovpølser
2.7 km
Legendary forest grill in Skanderborg serving award‑winning bøfsandwich, juicy burgers and hotdogs in a casual beech‑wood setting since 1962.
Michaels Mad og Vin
6.9 km
Rural Danish restaurant and catering house near Hørning, serving smørrebrød, modern Nordic dishes and well-chosen wines in relaxed countryside surroundings.
Svejstrup Præstegård
8.8 km
Historic rectory garden transformed into a seasonal summer restaurant and cultural venue.
Restaurant Møllebæk
11.3 km
Rural Danish restaurant and events venue near Gedved, renowned for hearty stegt flæsk evenings and relaxed, homely celebrations in a countryside setting.
Vecchio Convento
13.2 km
Slow Italian hospitality and Romagna-inspired cuisine brought to the pedestrian heart of Odder in a warm, craftsman-designed dining room.
Knudhule Badehotel og Gastronomisk Institut
13.5 km
Award-winning lakeside hotel and fine dining destination in Denmark's scenic Søhøjlandet region.
Restaurant Gastronomisk Institut
13.6 km
Seasonal Danish–French cooking, a serious wine cellar and wide lake views come together at this refined yet relaxed restaurant inside Knudhule Badehotel.
Umisushi
14.2 km
Neighbourhood sushi and takeaway in the lakeside town of Ry, serving fresh rolls and casual Japanese favourites in a relaxed, modern setting.
KobKun
14.2 km
Tiny Thai kitchen in the heart of Ry, serving fragrant curries and stir-fries in an intimate 13-seat space with a strong local takeaway following.
Byens Kylling & Pizza Ry
14.3 km
Casual neighborhood pizza and chicken takeaway in Ry, serving hearty portions and familiar flavors for easy, budget‑friendly dinners after a day outdoors.
Restaurant Da Angelo
14.3 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Ry's charming lakeside town center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kjærsgaard Kød
6.0 km
Traditional Danish butcher preserving heritage craft and sustainable meat sourcing in rural Skanderborg.
Provence Antik
7.5 km
Curated Provençal antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Skanderborg.
Ville vintage
7.9 km
Discover timeless treasures and unique vintage finds at Ville Vintage in Skanderborg.
Shell / 7-Eleven Ejer Bavnehøj West
8.0 km
24/7 motorway pit stop at Ejer Bavnehøj, combining Shell fuel and a compact 7‑Eleven shop for coffee, snacks and essentials on the E45 through Jutland.
Boserup Keramik
8.6 km
Intimate countryside ceramics studio in East Jutland, where handcrafted stoneware cups, vases and sculptures are created and sold directly from the potter’s own workshop.
Christys Festtøj
12.7 km
Gedved's premier boutique for bridal gowns and elegant occasion wear.
densortepiste.dk
12.7 km
Denmark's dedicated ski shop for rentals, sales, and expert winter sports guidance.
Else Rønne Keramik
12.8 km
Handcrafted Danish ceramics emphasizing minimalist design and functional beauty in a rural Jutland workshop.
Deko Home - Danish Recycling Furniture
13.5 km
Timeless Danish furniture crafted entirely from recycled wood in a working studio.
by Diana
14.2 km
An intimate Ry lingerie boutique offering personal fittings, Scandinavian style and a carefully curated selection of everyday essentials and special-occasion pieces.
Taste
14.3 km
Intimate Ry boutique for thoughtfully chosen lingerie and womenswear, offering calm, personal service and understated Nordic style on Skanderborgvej.
Toft suits men & women
14.3 km
Distinctive menswear and womenswear for those who value timeless quality and personal style.
Pierrot La Lune
14.3 km
A small, stylish children’s clothing boutique on Ry’s central square, blending Scandinavian design, quality fabrics and a cosy, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Hanghøj
14.3 km
A cosy Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Ry, offering curated women’s clothing, accessories and gifts with a relaxed, personal touch.
Kandis
14.3 km
A welcoming Ry specialty shop where wine, sweets, gourmet delicacies and thoughtful gifts come together under one cosy, carefully curated roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Marius Øltapper
1.6 km
Unpretentious Skanderborg bar on Adelgade pouring well-kept beers and offering a relaxed slice of Danish pub life from midday pints to late weekend nights.
Værtshus
1.6 km
A compact, unpretentious local bar on Adelgade where Skanderborg’s everyday life gathers over simple beers, easy conversation and a relaxed evening atmosphere.
Bar Bund
1.9 km
Cozy neighborhood bar on Adelgade in central Skanderborg, pouring classic drinks in an intimate, low-lit setting that comes alive on weekend evenings.
Bar 8660
1.9 km
Cosy local pub and brewery bar on Adelgade, pouring Skanderborg Bryghus beers, classic drinks and simple bar bites for relaxed evenings in central Skanderborg.
Gerd Bär Gmbh
2.7 km
Casual neighborhood bar with friendly service and solid drink selection in Skanderborg.
Solbjerg Bodega
7.9 km
Authentic Danish bodega with extended hours and genuine local atmosphere in North Jutland.
Miller's Pub
8.2 km
Easygoing neighborhood pub in Hørning serving cold beer, televised sports and small‑town Danish atmosphere from midday until late on weekends.
Ambolten Ry
14.2 km
Cosy neighborhood bar and social hub in the heart of Ry, mixing cold beers, live music and small-town charm in a laid-back, living-room atmosphere.
La Vinya
14.3 km
Chic wine bar and tapas lounge in Ry, offering curated wines, local bites, and cozy ambiance—perfect for unwinding after your Himmelbjerget adventure.
Høkeren
14.4 km
Possibly Denmark’s smallest pub, Høkeren in Ry distills classic Danish tavern culture into 18 sociable square meters of wood, warmth and well‑poured drinks.
Sprutskuret I/S
14.7 km
A cosy, no-fuss neighborhood bar on Østbirk’s main street, where simple drinks, local life and unhurried conversations create a classic small-town Danish atmosphere.
Dartklubben Potten
16.1 km
A classic Danish darts clubhouse in Låsby, where competitive heritage, cold drinks and small-town hygge come together around the oche.
The Long Field Road
18.6 km
AC Horsens’ Irish-inspired fan pub, where yellow-and-black passion, cold beer and stadium buzz come together in one lively Horsens clubhouse.
Kom Tit
19.1 km
Smoky, old-school Horsens pub in a yellow 19th-century building, with cheap beers, billiards, darts and a laid-back local crowd from midday to late night.
Værtshuse
19.5 km
A compact, traditional Danish bar on Allegade in Horsens, serving simple drinks and everyday atmosphere for those who enjoy classic brown‑pub charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Team Paderborner
2.4 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Bastian Bar & Nightclub, Odder - Nightclub
13.3 km
Odder's central nightlife destination for weekend entertainment and social gathering
Scandic Opus Horsens
18.3 km
A contemporary Scandinavian hotel in Horsens with spa, dining, and panoramic city-to-nature views—an elegant gateway to both urban and outdoor experiences.
Luksusmassage Århus
18.8 km
Experience Aarhus's dynamic nightlife at Luksusmassage, where music and energy blend for an unforgettable evening.
Sölibat Natklub
19.6 km
Late-night, no-frills clubbing in central Horsens, where loud music, simple drinks and a compact dance floor create an unapologetically local party vibe.
Oskar hossman
20.0 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub in central Horsens, where pulsing beats, colourful lights and a sociable crowd define the city’s after-hours heartbeat.
KLUB22
20.3 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at KLUB22 in Aarhus, where electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere await.
PDD
20.5 km
Compact, no-frills nightclub on Lindvigsvej in Horsens, offering late-night dancing, simple drinks and an intimate, local-party atmosphere on weekends.
equalclub
20.8 km
Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.
Rustik Bar & Natklub - Aarhus
21.0 km
Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Aarhus at Rustik Bar & Natklub, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere await.
ZenZa Cocktailbar
21.0 km
Discover Aarhus' vibrant nightlife at ZenZa Cocktailbar, where expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere await you.
Der Kuhstall
21.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Aarhus at Der Kuhstall, where vibrant music and an energetic atmosphere await party enthusiasts.
Bar Smil Aarhus
21.0 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Bar Smil Aarhus, a must-visit night club and bar offering an unforgettable experience in Denmark's cultural hub.
LA Tequila Bar Aarhus
21.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at LA Tequila Bar, offering an extensive tequila selection and energetic ambiance in the heart of Midtbyen.
Lounge 8000
21.1 km
Discover the best of Aarhus nightlife at Lounge 8000, where vibrant performances and a stylish lounge atmosphere await.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Romantic
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Cultural Heritage
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
- Business Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
