Kalø Castle: A Medieval Ruin on the Coast
Explore the dramatic ruins of Kalø Castle, a medieval fortress on a scenic peninsula, offering a unique journey through Danish history and stunning coastal landscapes.
Kalø Castle is a captivating ruin perched on a small island connected to the mainland by Denmark's oldest medieval road. Built in 1313 by King Erik Menved, the castle served as a royal stronghold and later an administrative center. Today, visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins, wander along the historic causeway, and enjoy panoramic views of Kalø Bay and Mols Bjerge National Park. The site offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and quiet contemplation. Don't miss the chance to climb the newly installed staircase inside the tower for an elevated perspective of this iconic landmark and its stunning surroundings. A visit to Kalø Castle is a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into Denmark's medieval past amidst a picturesque coastal landscape.
A brief summary to Kalø Castle
- Molsvej 31, Rønde, 8410, DK
- +4572170714
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobbled causeway and castle grounds have uneven surfaces.
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of Kalø Vig and the surrounding landscape.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings of Mols Bjerge National Park.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the coastal location can be windy.
- Take advantage of the newly installed staircase inside the tower for panoramic views.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Aarhus, take bus line 123 directly to Kalø Slotsruin. The bus departs from Nørreport/Nørrebrogade and arrives at the Kalø Slotsruin stop. The journey takes approximately 42 minutes and buses run hourly. A single ticket costs around 30 DKK.
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Driving
If driving from Aarhus, take road 15 towards Grenaa, then follow signs for Rønde and Kalø. Parking is available near Kalø Slotskro, a short walk from the causeway leading to the castle. Parking is free. Note that the last section of the path to the ruin is not suitable for wheelchair users.
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Walking
From the Karlsladen Visitor Centre, walk along Molsvej in the direction of the water. Follow the signs to Kalø Castle. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. There are no costs associated with walking.
Discover more about Kalø Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mols Bjerge National Park
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mounds from the bronze age
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Mols
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Trehøje Plantage
8.4 km
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Mols bjerge besøgscenter
8.4 km
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Strand Bogens
10.0 km
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Trøjborg Beboerhus
19.3 km
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Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
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Gammel Estrup Danmarks Herregårdsmuseum
19.7 km
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Folkehuset Trøjborg
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Jernhatten - Djursland
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KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jagtslottet, Kalø
3.2 km
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Poskær Stenhus
6.6 km
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Tinghule
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P-plads Tinghulen
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Safis Kokedameri
7.7 km
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Tremosegaard
7.8 km
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Tipi Tur
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Kvalitetssti Mols Bjerge, Bjergetapen
8.1 km
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Mols Bjerge
8.3 km
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Mols Bjerge stien
8.3 km
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Kvalitetssti Langemosestien
8.4 km
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Svampedam
8.7 km
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Trehøje Mols
8.7 km
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Det magiske klatretræ
9.2 km
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Strand Strands
10.4 km
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Essential places to dine
MolsCafeen
6.1 km
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Restaurant Moment
7.5 km
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Restaurant Skovmøllen Femmøller
8.3 km
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Molskroen Strandhotel og Molskroens Brasserie
10.0 km
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Stenbækhus / mad på Mols
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Karens Brasserie
15.4 km
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Restaurant Stockfleth
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Restaurant Bindingsværket
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Restaurant Mellem Jyder
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Manzana Tapas Bar
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Restaurant Støvlen
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Kjøbstaden
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Ristorante Bellini
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Gastromé
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Substans
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
EnergyBar.nu
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Is På Toppen - Outdoor Cykel- og Vandrecafe
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Molsløbet
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Molslaboratoriet, Naturhistorisk Museum
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Mols Haven
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Huset Frost
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Ørnbjerg Mølle
10.5 km
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SecondLux
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Ancher
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Jooma Aarhus
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Magpie Lane Vintage
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& Vintage
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LÏST Store
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Mols Mountains Holiday Resort
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Molskroen
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Fuglsøcentret
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Toldboden
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Brewpub på Maltfabrikken
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K
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SLM Aarhus
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Ebeltoft Gårdbryggeri
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