Natomolen (NATO Pier), Ebeltoft Vig
A former Cold War naval pier on Ebeltoft Vig, now a raw coastal viewpoint where fishing, diving history and ambitious marine restoration plans meet.
Jutting out into Ebeltoft Vig between Handrup and Lyngsbæk beaches, Natomolen is a former Cold War naval pier turned open coastal spot for anglers, divers and sea-gazers. Built in 1968 to fuel Danish and West German navy vessels, the pier long doubled as an easy-access deep-water platform, offering quick entry to the bay and views across Nationalpark Mols Bjerge. Today, with the original structure largely removed, the area remains a fascinating coastal landscape, with remnants on the seabed, ongoing marine restoration plans and a raw, windswept atmosphere that reveals both the site’s military past and its new life as a nature-focused shoreline.
A brief summary to Natomolen
- Kystvejen 12, Ebeltoft, 8400, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring windproof layers year-round; the shoreline is exposed, and conditions can shift quickly even on warm days.
- If you plan to fish, obtain the required Danish national fishing licence in advance and check current species conservation rules.
- Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven, stony ground and be cautious near any remaining metal or concrete remnants.
- Combine a stop here with a wider exploration of Nationalpark Mols Bjerge to appreciate both the coastal scenery and inland landscapes.
- Pack water and snacks, as there are no guaranteed food outlets or shops directly at the shoreline by the former pier.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Ebeltoft town centre
From central Ebeltoft, driving to the shoreline by the former Natomolen area typically takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. The route follows local coastal and approach roads with normal asphalt surfaces suitable for all vehicles. Parking is limited to small roadside or informal bays near the coast, and spaces can fill quickly in summer and on calm fishing days. There is no parking fee at the shoreline itself, but paid parking options are available closer to Ebeltoft if you prefer to leave the car there and continue by bicycle.
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Local bus and short coastal walk
Regional buses serving the Ebeltoft–Mols area run several times a day, with stops along the main coastal road within walking distance of the former Natomolen shoreline. The ride from Ebeltoft bus station to the closest stop usually takes 15–25 minutes. A standard single ticket in East Jutland is typically around 20–35 DKK, depending on zones and concessions. From the stop, expect a 10–20 minute walk on minor roads and paths, mostly flat but potentially uneven or muddy in wet weather, so this option is better for visitors with reasonable mobility.
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Bicycle from Ebeltoft and nearby beaches
Cycling from Ebeltoft or from Handrup and Lyngsbæk beaches is a practical way to reach the area, especially in summer. Expect 20–40 minutes of riding each way from Ebeltoft, on a mix of minor roads and sections where you share space with local traffic. The terrain is gently rolling rather than steep. There are no dedicated bike racks directly on the shoreline, so bring a lock and be prepared to leave your bicycle at a suitable spot along the coastal road or on firm ground off the main track.
Natomolen location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Natomolen
From Cold War stronghold to quiet Ebeltoft shoreline
Natomolen sits on the northern shore of Ebeltoft Vig, a broad, shallow bay framed by the hills of Mols. For decades this stretch of coast was dominated by a long concrete and steel pier constructed in 1968 as part of NATO infrastructure. Its primary purpose was practical and strategic: to allow naval tankers to load and unload diesel and other supplies for the Danish and West German navies, safely away from busy commercial harbours. Although the naval installations themselves were never grand in architectural terms, the mole symbolised a tense period in European history. Tank pipelines, pump facilities and a heavily engineered sheet-pile wall created a distinctly utilitarian seafront. Over time, as the geopolitical landscape changed and the facility’s military relevance faded, the pier’s role slowly shifted from guarded asset to familiar landmark on the bay.A beloved, rugged platform for fishing and diving
Even while the naval use declined, Natomolen found a second life as an accessible spot for outdoor recreation. Extending well into Ebeltoft Vig, it offered deeper water than the surrounding beaches, making it one of Djursland’s best-known coastal fishing places. Seasonal runs of herring, mackerel and garfish drew anglers to the edge of the pier, while summer brought encounters with greater weever and the occasional flatfish or sea trout in the surrounding waters. For divers, the pier provided an easy entry point and a clear underwater route along the sheet piles and scattered boulders. Visibility in the bay could vary, but the structure offered shelter and habitat for marine life, turning a purely functional Cold War construction into an informal training and exploration site. On the surface, the flat, wide deck gave space to gear up, watch the water or simply sit and absorb the views across the bay.Demolition, seabed traces and a changing seascape
In recent years, the original NATO pier has been largely demolished. Heavy machinery removed most of the sheet piling and concrete, reshaping both the shoreline and the seabed. Today, what remains is a more natural-looking coastal line with only scattered traces of the old structure beneath the surface, including buried concrete fragments and occasional protruding metal elements that hint at the former installation. Sand has gradually covered much of the old construction, softening the hard industrial profile into a gentler slope. For visitors on land, the absence of the long pier can be surprising if they knew it from earlier years, yet the open view across Ebeltoft Vig feels broader and less interrupted. Underwater, the transition from artificial harbour-like environment to a more open bay continues as sediments settle and marine communities adapt.Super reef visions and the future of Ebeltoft Vig
The disappearance of the pier has opened the door to ambitious plans for marine restoration. Nationalpark Mols Bjerge has proposed creating Denmark’s first “super reef” in the waters off the former Natomolen site, designed to revive a seabed that has lost much of its natural richness. Structured rock formations could provide new habitat for fish, crustaceans and seaweeds, helping to improve oxygen conditions and biodiversity in the bay. Alongside the reef, proposals have included an underwater viewing tunnel and new, more modest coastal facilities where the old pump grounds once stood. Ideas range from a green recreational area with paths and seating to simple shelters, fire pits and proper toilet facilities, aiming to balance public access with respect for local residents and the fragile marine environment.Atmosphere on a wind-exposed coastal edge
Standing here today, you encounter a shoreline in transition. There is no grand monument, but rather a low-key, windswept stretch of coast that invites you to linger and imagine what once rose from the water. The sound of waves against the stones, seabirds hunting over the shallows and distant sails gliding across the bay all help to shift the focus from military logistics to landscape appreciation. On clear days, the light over Ebeltoft Vig can be striking, with reflections from the sometimes rippled, sometimes mirror-smooth water. The absence of large buildings lends the place a spacious feel, and even a short stop allows you to sense how this corner of Djursland is reshaping its relationship with the sea—from strategic fuel hub to a more nature-oriented coastal experience.Practical considerations for a low-key seaside stop
Facilities at and around the former Natomolen are relatively simple. Expect an unpretentious, natural setting rather than a developed waterfront promenade. At busy times, especially when conditions are favourable for fishing or water activities, parking can be limited along the nearby coastal road. There is ongoing discussion about improving amenities, including formal parking areas, toilets and small-scale recreational features that would better support day visitors. Because of the open exposure to wind and weather, conditions change quickly. A bright summer evening here feels very different from a grey, blustery winter afternoon. The site works well as a short scenic pause on a wider exploration of Nationalpark Mols Bjerge, a vantage point for contemplating the bay’s past and future, and a reminder of how quickly functional infrastructure can give way to new priorities of conservation and quiet enjoyment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mindesten for Egil Fischer
1.1 km
A quiet memorial honoring Denmark's visionary architect and pioneer of planned communities.
Olaf Ryes Skanse
9.1 km
A 19th-century Danish military fortification honoring a war hero with commanding views across the Jutland landscape.
Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
25.8 km
Experience local Danish cinema culture at Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg—an atmospheric neighborhood movie house blending modern comfort with classic charm in Aarhus.
Trøjborg Beboerhus
25.8 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.
Folkehuset Trøjborg
26.0 km
Folkehuset Trøjborg blends Danish hygge, vibrant community life, and affordable culture, making it a beloved gathering place in the heart of Aarhus’ Trøjborg district.
Aarhus waterfront
26.2 km
Aarhus Waterfront blends urban vibrancy, Nordic design, and harbor heritage with panoramic sea views and lively promenades, making it a quintessential Danish experience.
Endless Connection
26.3 km
Experience the dynamic interplay of art and water at Aarhus's Endless Connection, an interactive fountain by Jeppe Hein.
Herman Sallings Plads
26.3 km
Aarhus’s vibrant harborfront plaza, bridging the historic city and the modern waterfront, alive with urban energy, culture, and panoramic views.
Latin Quarter
26.4 km
Winding cobblestone streets, historic facades, and a creative spirit fill Aarhus’s Latin Quarter, the city’s oldest district and its cultural heartbeat.
The Occupation Museum
26.4 km
Malmo Live Concert Hall offers world-class music, architecture, and vibrant city energy in the heart of Malmö, steps from the waterfront and cultural highlights.
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
26.4 km
A groundbreaking museum in Aarhus dedicated to gender, identity, and equality, featuring interactive exhibitions in a historic building near the city’s iconic cathedral.
History Hunts med Hvem.nu
26.4 km
Malmo Live Concert Hall blends iconic Nordic architecture, world-class live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in Malmö, just across the bridge from Copenhagen.
Aarhus Cathedral
26.5 km
Denmark’s largest cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece in Aarhus C, renowned for medieval frescoes, stunning vistas, and a vibrant city square atmosphere.
Store Torv
26.6 km
Store Torv is the historic plaza at Aarhus’ city heart, a hub of medieval charm, vibrant markets, and the dramatic silhouette of Denmark’s tallest cathedral.
University Park, Aarhus
26.6 km
Explore seven centuries of art at SMK – Denmark’s national gallery, marrying old masters, modern pioneers, and cutting-edge exhibitions in stunning parkland surroundings.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kleiner Strand
0.4 km
A modest curve of sand on Ebeltoft Bay, Kleiner Strand blends calm, shallow water, soft light and a lived‑in coastal atmosphere on the edge of town.
Molskroen
1.0 km
Historic seaside inn and gourmet retreat on the edge of Ebeltoft, where Nordic landscape, coastal calm and Michelin-recognised cuisine meet by the dunes.
Det magiske klatretræ
2.2 km
A storybook climbing tree on a quiet country road near Ebeltoft, where twisting branches, fresh air and simple play turn a short stop into a small adventure.
Svampedam
2.5 km
Rolling hills and panoramic trails in Denmark's most dramatic national park landscape.
Mols Bjerge stien
2.6 km
An Ice Age–sculpted long-distance trail of low Danish “mountains”, wide views, rare nature and historic sites winding through Nationalpark Mols Bjerge.
Egsmark Plantage
2.8 km
A quietly atmospheric plantation forest on the edge of Ebeltoft, where mixed woodland, easy paths, and subtle wildlife create a gentle nature escape.
Molslaboratoriet, Naturhistorisk Museum
2.8 km
A quiet farmstead in Mols Bjerge where free-roaming horses, grazing cattle and long-term research turn a Danish hillside landscape into a living laboratory of wild nature.
Kvalitetssti Mols Bjerge, Bjergetapen
2.8 km
Denmark’s “mountain stage”: a demanding, day-long loop through the heather-clad hills, ravines and far-reaching views of Mols Bjerge near Ebeltoft.
Mols bjerge besøgscenter
3.0 km
Free, informative gateway to Mols Bjerge National Park, where ice‑age hills, grazing herds, and hands‑on exhibits meet just outside coastal Ebeltoft.
Kvalitetssti Langemosestien
3.0 km
A short but varied loop through oak forest, open hills and tranquil bog in Nationalpark Mols Bjerge, with sweeping glimpses of Ebeltoft Vig along the way.
Safis Kokedameri
3.1 km
A tiny kokedama-focused garden in Ebeltoft where plants become living design pieces and a calm pause between town streets and the wilds of Mols Bjerge.
Strand Bogens
3.3 km
A modest Djursland shoreline where sea-level calm meets the gentle climb inland toward Fuglsø, offering simple coastal scenery, fresh air and rural quiet.
Mols Bjerge
3.9 km
Rolling Ice Age hills, wide sea views and ancient burial mounds combine in one of Denmark’s most varied national parks on the Djursland peninsula.
Ørnbjerg Mølle
3.9 km
A red-timber watermill deep in Mols Bjerge National Park, where murmuring streams, forest trails and centuries of rural history meet in one tranquil valley.
Mols Cross Club
4.2 km
Club-run motocross in the rolling Mols Bjerge landscape, where off-road riders test their skills on a sculpted dirt track just outside coastal Ebeltoft.
Essential places to dine
Molskroen Strandhotel og Molskroens Brasserie
0.9 km
A coastal Danish strandhotel pairing sea views, Nordic comfort and refined local cuisine on the edge of Mols Bjerge National Park near Ebeltoft.
Molskroens Isbod
1.0 km
Casual seaside ice cream stand near Mols Bjerge and Ebeltoft, serving classic Danish soft ice and scoops to beachgoers, walkers and cyclists on sunny days.
Molsboden
1.0 km
A small red beach stand at Femmøller Strand serving burgers, ice cream and local drinks, perfectly placed between Ebeltoft’s calm bay waters and the hills of Mols.
Labacate Café
1.0 km
Brazilian warmth, specialty coffee and artisan sourdough in a cozy coastal café just steps from the beach in Femmøller near Ebeltoft.
Restaurant Skovmøllen Femmøller
2.6 km
Authentic Danish comfort food beside a peaceful mill pond, where tradition meets genuine hospitality.
Karens Brasserie
4.6 km
Comforting Danish home cooking and generous brunches by Ebeltoft’s harbour, where casual brasserie dining meets views towards the historic frigate Jylland.
Lundbergs Spisehus
4.7 km
Laid‑back Nordic cooking, freshly baked bread and courtyard vibes inside Ebeltoft’s red‑brick Maltfabrikken creative hub.
Restaurant Stockfleth
4.7 km
Harbourfront hygge in a historic fillet factory, serving fresh Danish seafood, hearty classics and steaks with wide Ebeltoft harbour views from terrace and table.
Manzana Tapas Bar
4.7 km
Intimate Spanish tapas and sangria on Ebeltoft’s cobbled main street, blending Mediterranean flavours with Danish hygge in a warm, social dining setting.
Jernbanegrillen
4.8 km
No‑frills Danish grill bar in the heart of Ebeltoft, serving generous burgers, flæskesteg sandwiches and classic fast food at fair prices all day.
Raadhus Caféen
4.8 km
Cozy café-restaurant by Ebeltoft’s historic town hall, serving coffee, cakes and hearty European–Danish dishes with a relaxed view over the cobbled square.
MolsCafeen
4.8 km
Rural cafe and cozy bed and breakfast on Kølbakken, pairing homely Danish cooking with wide countryside views toward the Mols Bjerge landscape near Ebeltoft.
Restaurant Støvlen
4.8 km
Classic Danish cooking with seasonal flair served in a 300‑year‑old shoemaker’s house and leafy courtyard on Ebeltoft’s cobbled main street.
Restaurant Mellem Jyder
4.8 km
Historic 17th-century inn in old-town Ebeltoft serving classic Danish “kromad” with a modern twist amid candlelit stuer and a flower-filled courtyard.
Ristorante Italia
4.8 km
Cosy Italian trattoria in Ebeltoft’s cobbled old town, serving stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta with a summery courtyard that feels surprisingly Mediterranean.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Havstok
0.9 km
Handcrafted rustic furnishings in Denmark's charming maritime heritage town.
It’s a Flower Thing
1.0 km
Handcrafted ceramics and seasonal flowers grown in harmony with nature's rhythms.
Huset Frost
1.1 km
Experience the fusion of gourmet dining and sustainable design at Huset Frost in Ebeltoft.
Aktivstrikdesign
3.3 km
Where yarn, community, and Danish hygge come together in a welcoming knitting space.
Nixn
3.6 km
Curated contemporary fashion in charming Danish countryside retail.
Mols Bolsjer A/S
4.8 km
Cosy old-town sweet shop in Ebeltoft, showcasing handmade Danish boiled candies and licorice from local production, perfect for treats and edible souvenirs.
WestWind Ebeltoft
4.8 km
Coastal clothing and outdoor gear on Ebeltoft’s waterfront road, keeping visitors warm, dry and comfortable for walks, beach days and bay-side adventures.
Is På Toppen - Outdoor Cykel- og Vandrecafe
6.0 km
Beloved outdoor café and ice cream bar at the edge of Mols Bjerge National Park, renowned among hikers and cyclists for homemade treats and countryside atmosphere.
Nordic Bar Group
7.9 km
Denmark's trusted supplier of professional bar equipment and sustainable glassware to European hospitality.
EnergyBar.nu
8.0 km
Compact organic food shop in rural Vrinners, specializing in Danish-made energy bars and protein products that power explorations around Knebel and Mols Bjerge.
Troldhedesten
8.0 km
Coastal fitness hub where quality equipment meets active Danish living.
Garn10
8.3 km
A cozy village yarn shop in Knebel where shelves of color, texture, and Nordic fibers invite you to slow down, browse, and bring home a creative Danish souvenir.
Miss A - Gaveideer og indretning til dit hjem
8.4 km
Curated gifts and home décor in the heart of scenic Mols Bjerge
Mols Haven
8.8 km
A cosy countryside fruit and vegetable store in Knebel, offering seasonal Danish produce and a friendly village welcome on the doorstep of Mols Bjerge.
Bundgaards Vinimport/ Molshonning v/ Ole Bundgaard
14.7 km
Small-scale wine importer and honey producer in a Mols village home, blending European bottles and local Molshonning in a relaxed, personal cellar-style setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ebeltoft Strandbar
4.6 km
Laid-back beachfront bar on Ebeltoft Bay, serving simple seaside food, cold drinks and big-sky sunsets just steps from the sand on Strandvejen.
Brewpub på Maltfabrikken
4.7 km
Fresh local beer served beneath the beams of Ebeltoft’s restored red malt factory, where industrial heritage and modern Danish craft brewing meet.
Toldboden
4.7 km
Relaxed harbourside bar in Ebeltoft, blending maritime character, waterfront views and late-opening drinks in a cosy, casual setting by the marina.
Klub K
4.7 km
Small-town harbor bar turned late-night disco, Klub K keeps Ebeltoft dancing on weekend nights with simple drinks, big beats and an easygoing local vibe.
Umage Ølbar
4.8 km
Craft beer bar in Ebeltoft with 14 taps, 50+ bottled beers, and comfort food.
Stockfleths Østers & Bobbelbar
4.8 km
Former oyster and bubbles bar on Ebeltoft’s old fishing harbour, where luxury shellfish, sparkling wine and maritime history came together in a relaxed coastal setting.
Sir Henry Bodega
4.9 km
Unpretentious Danish bar in Ebeltoft’s cobbled old town, pouring local beers and classic drinks in a cozy, lived-in setting from morning till late.
Bar Pia
4.9 km
Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in central Ebeltoft, offering simple drinks, local atmosphere, and a relaxed glimpse into everyday Danish pub life.
Den Skæve Bar
4.9 km
A crooked timber-framed pub in Ebeltoft's old town, where live music and garden charm meet Danish hospitality.
Mejeriets Bar
10.5 km
Cozy neighbourhood bar and eatery by the harbour in Knebel, offering simple food, evening drinks and a relaxed local atmosphere after days out on Djursland.
Bodega Kringlen v/Annelise Dalgaard
11.9 km
Unpretentious local bodega on Rønde’s main street, serving cold beer, simple drinks and small-town Danish bar atmosphere late into the evening.
Mørke Roadhouse
19.5 km
Unpretentious beer hall on Ebeltoftvej where locals and travelers share cold pints, warm conversation, and long, easygoing evenings in small-town Mørke.
Byportene Bodega
21.0 km
Cozy neighborhood bodega in Hornslet with cold beers, warm lighting and easygoing local charm for unpretentious evenings out.
K
25.7 km
Discover K, the cozy cafe and cocktail bar in Aarhus, where innovative drinks and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Peder Wessel
25.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peder Wessel, Aarhus' charming bar with affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- 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
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
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
- Solo Female Friendly
