Hørsholm Arboretum (Arboretet), North Zealand
A tranquil university-run arboretum in Hørsholm, showcasing 2,000 tree and shrub species in a spacious park of winding paths, ponds and seasonal colour.
A living library of trees in North Zealand
Hørsholm Arboretum, known locally as Arboretet, is a vast tapestry of trees and shrubs spread over former royal hunting grounds just north of Copenhagen. Operated by the University of Copenhagen, it functions both as an outdoor laboratory and a public park, where scientific plant collections are presented in an accessible, inviting landscape. Instead of rigid rows or formal beds, the arboretum unfolds as a sequence of woodland rooms and open lawns. Collections are grouped by geography and plant family, so you move from North American conifers to East Asian maples, then on to European oaks and rare ornamental shrubs, all within a gentle stroll.Botanical treasures from around the world
With around 2,000 species of trees and bushes, this is Denmark’s largest woody plant collection. Many specimens are labelled, allowing you to match unfamiliar foliage with names and origins as you wander. You might pause under towering conifers, examine peeling birch bark at eye level, or compare the shapes of different oaks and beeches. One of the highlights is the renowned rhododendron collection, which bursts into colour in late spring. Winding paths thread between banks of bloom in shades from delicate pastels to deep magenta. Elsewhere, magnolias, flowering cherries and hydrangeas ensure that almost every season brings another botanical performance.Seasonal moods and changing colours
The arboretum rewards repeat visits throughout the year. In spring, fresh green leaves and blossoms brighten the woodland edges. Summer brings deep shade, birdsong and the quiet hum of insects above the ponds and meadows. Autumn is particularly dramatic, when maples, larches and other deciduous trees ignite in vivid reds, oranges and golds, reflected in still water and carpeting the paths. Even winter has its appeal, with clear views through bare branches, intricate silhouettes and the subtle greens of conifers against low Nordic light.Paths, quiet corners and gentle exploration
Most of the network of trails consists of broad gravel paths, making it easy to explore large parts of the site at your own pace. Benches and informal resting spots appear by ponds, in glades and along wooded edges, inviting you to stop, listen to the wind in the canopy and watch the play of light through leaves. There are no playgrounds or loud attractions here; the atmosphere is calm and contemplative. The scale of the park means you can quickly leave other visitors behind and feel as though you have a private forest to yourself, whether you are walking, jogging or simply sitting with a book.Research heritage and gentle guidelines
Beyond its beauty, Hørsholm Arboretum has a long history as a research and teaching site for forestry, dendrology and horticulture. Many trees are part of long-running scientific trials, and discreet signs share information about planting dates, provenance and species characteristics. To protect this living collection, a few simple rules apply. The arboretum is open daily from early morning until sunset, and entry is free. Dogs are not allowed inside, helping to safeguard wildlife, young plantings and delicate understory vegetation. Visitors are encouraged to treat the grounds as both a garden and a field laboratory: stay on paths where requested, avoid picking plant material and leave only footprints behind.Local tips
- Plan your visit for late May or early June if you want to see the rhododendron collection and many ornamental shrubs in peak bloom, but expect beautiful foliage in autumn as well.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; most paths are gravel and easy, but the area is larger than it first appears, and you may end up walking several kilometres.
- Bring water and a light snack, as there are no cafés inside the arboretum; use bins where available and pack out any rubbish to help protect the plant collections.
- Check the closing time relative to sunset before heading in, especially in winter when daylight is short, to avoid being in the park after it closes.
- Dogs are not permitted inside the arboretum, so arrange pet care in advance if you are travelling with animals.
A brief summary to Arboretum
- Arboretvej 1, 4, Hørsholm, 2970, DK
- +4535331500
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-8 pm
Getting There
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Regional train and bus from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take a regional train toward Helsingør or Nivå and get off at Hørsholm or Kokkedal, a journey of about 25–35 minutes with departures several times per hour. A standard adult single ticket within this zone range typically costs around 60–80 DKK. From the station area, continue by local bus toward Hørsholm, which usually adds 10–15 minutes of travel time. Buses run regularly during the day but less frequently in the evening and on weekends, so it is worth checking schedules in advance.
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Local bus within North Zealand
If you are already staying in North Zealand towns such as Hillerød or Helsingør, use the regional bus network to reach Hørsholm. Typical travel times range from 25 to 45 minutes depending on your starting point and route, with most buses operating at least twice per hour on weekdays. A single adult bus ticket generally costs around 30–60 DKK depending on distance and zones. Buses are comfortable and suitable in most weather, though services may be slightly reduced in late evenings and on public holidays.
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Car or taxi from Copenhagen region
Travelling by car from the wider Copenhagen area usually takes about 25–35 minutes in normal traffic, using main routes toward Hørsholm. There is typically free outdoor parking near the arboretum, but spaces can become limited on sunny weekends and during peak spring flowering. If you prefer not to drive, taxis from central Copenhagen can complete the journey in a similar time, at a cost often in the range of 500–800 DKK each way depending on traffic and exact pickup location.
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Cycling from nearby coastal towns
For a more active option, you can cycle from nearby towns such as Rungsted or Kokkedal, which usually takes about 20–35 minutes at a relaxed pace. The terrain is mostly gentle with some small inclines, and there are paved cycle paths along many main routes, making this an appealing choice in mild, dry weather. Keep in mind that Danish traffic rules apply on bike paths and that cycling can be less comfortable in heavy rain, strong winds or icy winter conditions.
