Dragsmur Isthmus, Helgenæs

A narrow neck of land between two bays

Dragsmur is a slim strip of land where sea and sky nearly cut Helgenæs free from the mainland. On one side lies the sheltered Begtrup Vig, on the other the more open Aarhus Bay, and between them the ground rises into a series of low, dune‑like knolls and narrow ridges. Walking here, you are never far from the sound of waves, with water visible in both directions and the sense that a strong tide could almost reclaim the peninsula. This is one of the most distinctive coastal landscapes in the Aarhus region. The coastline shifts quickly from sandy stretches with shallow, clear water to stony, wave‑worked shores where pebbles clatter in the surf. To the north you look towards the soft hills of Mols Bjerge, while to the south the land narrows and runs out into Helgenæs and the distant silhouettes of Ellemandsbjerget and Sletterhage Fyr.

Shaped by Ice Age seas and shifting sands

The terrain at Dragsmur owes its character to the last Ice Age and the changing sea levels that followed. The small, volcano‑like mounds and the steep eastern slopes near Ryes Skanser are remnants of an ancient Stone Age shoreline, carved when the sea stood several metres higher than today. Over time, currents carried sand and gravel along the coast, slowly building up the narrow bar that now binds Helgenæs to Mols. Even without specialist knowledge you can read this history in the land. Old coastal cliffs now sit inland, while curved beach ridges and low terraces mark former shorelines. Out in the water to the west, long, shallow reefs and sandbars form important resting and feeding areas for birds and seals, highlighting how dynamic this meeting of land and sea still is.

Nature, birdlife and quiet coastal habitats

Despite its modest size, Dragsmur shelters a variety of habitats. Shallow waters along the shores warm quickly in summer and are popular for wading and simple snorkelling, while the stony seabed further out supports mussels, seaweed and small crustaceans. Wading birds and gulls forage along the tideline, and in spring and autumn many migrating species pause here on their journeys along the Danish coasts. Behind the beach, stretches of coastal grassland and low heath cling to the sandy soils. These open areas, together with nearby protected reefs, are sensitive breeding and resting grounds. Parts of the coastal zone west of Dragsmur are designated for nature protection, so visitors are expected to keep good distance from marked bird reserves and to stay on the dry beach or established paths when moving along the shore.

Walking, simple camping and life by the water

Dragsmur is best experienced at walking pace. Paths and informal tracks lead over the low hills and down to the beaches, offering constantly changing viewpoints. Strong footwear is useful, as long stretches of shore are uneven and stony. For those keen on longer outings, Dragsmur forms a natural gateway into day‑long coastal hikes that trace much of Helgenæs’ 27‑kilometre shoreline. Near the isthmus there is a modest nature camp where small tents can be pitched close to the water. Facilities are basic, and there is no large communal fire ring, but simple cooking fires are allowed on the beach or beside tents when conditions permit and local rules are respected. The mood is informal and close to nature: you fall asleep to the sound of the sea and wake to light over the bay.

Conservation rules and a fragile landscape

In recent years, vehicle access has been tightened to protect the most vulnerable parts of the landscape. Camping with cars and driving on the natural terrain are not permitted, and barriers now keep motor traffic away from sensitive dunes and grassland. Dogs are welcome but must generally be kept on a lead, especially in the bird‑rich breeding season, when nests and chicks are easily disturbed. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly: stick to established tracks where possible, avoid entering marked reserve zones on nearby reefs, and carry out all rubbish. These simple habits help preserve Dragsmur’s quiet, open character, ensuring that the narrow neck of land remains a refuge for both wildlife and those seeking a calm stretch of coast between two bays.