Elleskovstien Boardwalk & Marsh, Hørsholm

A raised wooden boardwalk leads you into Hørsholm’s own “mini‑mangrove”: a quiet marsh and lakeside wetland where alder forest, reeds and artful details reward unhurried wandering.

4.4

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Denmark
North Zealand
Elleskovstien

Elleskovstien is a wooden boardwalk and nature trail that slips quietly from suburban Hørsholm into a surprisingly wild marsh on the shores of Sjælsø. Here, you wander on raised planks through alder swamp, reeds and wet meadows, with glimpses of open water between the trees. It feels almost like a small urban mangrove: tangled roots, bird calls, damp earth and dappled light, yet only minutes from houses and everyday life, making it an easy, atmospheric escape.

A brief summary to Elleskovstien

Nebbegårds Alle 2, Hørsholm, 2970, DK
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Wear shoes with good grip; the wooden boards can be damp and slightly slippery, especially after rain or in colder months.
Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching—Sjælsø and the surrounding reeds often host waterfowl and small woodland species.
In summer, pack insect repellent; still, humid air over the marsh is ideal for mosquitoes and midges at dawn and dusk.
Combine the boardwalk with a longer walk around the nearby woods and Sjælsø shoreline for a fuller half‑day outing.
Avoid stepping off the boardwalk into the marsh; the ground is soft, easily damaged and can be deceptively deep in places.

Getting There

S-train and bus from central Copenhagen

From central Copenhagen, take S-train line E towards Hillerød and get off at Kokkedal Station; the ride typically takes 30–35 minutes. From Kokkedal, local buses toward Hørsholm run at least twice an hour during the day, and the onward journey to the area around Nebbegårds Alle usually takes 10–15 minutes. A standard 2–3 zone ticket within the Greater Copenhagen area generally costs around 24–36 DKK each way, or you can use a travel card. Services run most of the day but are less frequent in evenings and on weekends.
Regional bus within North Zealand

If you are already in North Zealand towns such as Hørsholm, Birkerød or Helsingør, use regional buses that connect through Hørsholm and the surroundings of Nebbegårds Alle. Typical journey times range from 15–40 minutes depending on the starting point and transfers. Single bus tickets within local zones are usually around 24–30 DKK, and buses tend to run every 20–30 minutes during daytime, with reduced frequency late evenings and on Sundays.
Car from Copenhagen and surroundings

By car, Elleskovstien lies roughly 25–30 kilometres north of central Copenhagen and the drive usually takes 25–35 minutes in normal traffic via the main motorway toward Hørsholm. Parking is generally available in residential streets near Nebbegårds Alle or at nearby public parking areas; some may have signed time limits but are typically free of charge. Be aware that spaces can be busier on sunny weekends, and the final approach to the trail is on foot along local paths.
Cycling from Hørsholm and nearby towns

From Hørsholm centre and other nearby residential areas, Elleskovstien is comfortably reachable by bicycle in around 10–25 minutes along local roads and designated cycle paths common in the region. The terrain is mostly gentle, with only minor inclines, making it suitable for casual cyclists. There is no dedicated bike parking inside the marsh itself, so plan to lock your bicycle discreetly at the edge of the residential area before continuing on foot to the start of the boardwalk.

Elleskovstien location weather suitability

Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Cold Weather

Discover more about Elleskovstien

A Hidden Wetland on the Edge of Hørsholm

Elleskovstien begins inconspicuously at Nebbegårds Alle and quickly leaves residential streets behind, slipping into low, damp woodland. The path is best known for its long wooden boardwalk, raised above the marsh so you can pass dry-shod through an otherwise inaccessible landscape. Here, alder trunks rise straight from the water, moss glows green in shadowed corners and narrow channels mirror the sky. The setting feels unexpectedly wild for North Zealand. Birdsong carries over the reeds, and in the stillest moments you hear only the creak of timber underfoot and the faint lap of water. Yet you are never far from town, which gives the route a distinctive in-between character: half neighbourhood stroll, half small-scale wilderness.

From Alder Swamp to Sjælsø’s Quiet Shore

As you follow the planks, the forest gradually opens into wetter meadow and patches of tall reedbed. In places, the boardwalk threads between stands of willow and birch, then emerges where you can glimpse Sjælsø, one of the region’s larger lakes. The water appears through curtains of vegetation, with ducks, coots or grebes often visible on the surface. The combination of dense woodland, marsh, and lake edge makes this a rich spot for watching seasonal change. Spring brings fresh green leaves and frogs calling from hidden pools; in summer the reeds tower over the walkway and insects hum in the warm air. Autumn colours reflect in the flooded forest, while in winter the bare trunks and low light give the marsh a spare, almost graphic beauty.

An Outdoor Art Walk in the Woods

Elleskovstien has also served as a setting for a collaborative art project, with artists placing sculptures and installations among trees and clearings. Even when only a few pieces remain, the idea lingers: you move through the landscape more attentively, scanning for shapes that might be artworks or curious natural forms. Some works blend with the environment—subtle interventions in wood, stone or metal—while others stand out more clearly, punctuating the walk and inviting you to pause. This gentle meeting of culture and nature adds an extra layer of interest, turning a short stroll into a small exploration of both place and imagination.

A Short, Atmospheric Stroll for Everyday Escapes

The route itself is modest in length and requires only ordinary fitness, but the underfoot conditions make the boardwalk essential. On the planks, the walk is straightforward; step off them, and the soft ground quickly reminds you how wet this landscape really is. The raised path means that, in most seasons, you can enjoy the marsh without special gear. Because the walk is compact, it easily fits into an hour or two of unhurried exploration. It lends itself to quiet solo visits, short family outings, or a reflective detour before or after time by Sjælsø. There are no formal facilities inside the marsh, so the experience remains simple: just you, the boardwalk, and the sounds of water and woods.

Light, Weather and the Mood of the Marsh

Elleskovstien changes character with the weather. On bright days, sunlight flickers through the canopy and the water below the planks glints between roots. Overcast skies flatten colours but deepen the sense of seclusion, and light rain amplifies the scent of wet wood and soil. Wind can set reeds whispering and lake water rippling, while the forest itself stays relatively sheltered. Photographers find subtle compositions here: reflections in dark pools, textures of bark and moss, stark silhouettes of trunks in winter. For many visitors, though, the main appeal is more straightforward—a compact, easily reached slice of genuine wetland, where it is possible to slow down, breathe more deeply, and experience a different side of Hørsholm’s landscape.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Hørsholm Slotshave

2.1 km

A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.

Henriksholm

5.8 km

A quiet Vedbæk hillside where Stone Age burials, villa culture and Cold War command history meet in a leafy coastal neighbourhood north of Copenhagen.

Furesø

9.5 km

Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.

Hillerød St.

11.5 km

North Zealand's essential transport hub connecting Copenhagen, regional destinations, and Frederiksborg Castle.

Lyngby Storcenter

11.7 km

Discover a world of shopping and dining at Lyngby Storcenter, one of Denmark's largest malls, offering a vibrant mix of international brands and local favorites in the heart of Kongens Lyngby.

Hillerød Rectory

11.8 km

Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.

Old town hall

11.9 km

A dignified brick landmark on Hillerød’s main square, the Old Town Hall anchors the town’s civic heart between cobbled streets, cafés and castle views.

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

12.0 km

Experience Danish craft beers, global wines, and tasty tapas at Skänk in Hillerød, a cozy spot with castle views and a welcoming atmosphere on Torvet square.

Country Market

12.4 km

Experience the charm of Fredensborg at Country Market, a vibrant marketplace offering local delicacies, artisan products, and a cozy café atmosphere in the heart of town.

Bagsværd Kirke

12.6 km

A modest suburban shell concealing Jørn Utzon’s luminous “cloud” church, where Nordic minimalism, sculpted concrete and tranquil courtyards create a serene urban sanctuary.

Kirppu Hillerød

13.2 km

Discover unique vintage finds and support sustainable shopping at Kirppu Hillerød, Denmark's largest flea market supermarket, offering a treasure trove of pre-loved goods and community spirit.

Ven

14.6 km

Discover Ven: A Swedish island gem in the Öresund Strait, blending history, nature, and tranquility for an unforgettable escape between Sweden and Denmark, steeped in astronomical history.

Kulsvierstenen

15.9 km

A modest forest boulder in Gribskov that marks a dramatic World War II resistance firefight, blending North Zealand’s tranquil woodland with powerful memory.

Gribsø

16.0 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Gribsø, a peat-rich lake nestled in the heart of Gribskov forest, offering hiking, birdwatching, and a serene escape into nature in North Zealand.

Memorial Park

17.5 km

A tranquil, evocative memorial park in Hellerup near Østerbro, honoring Danish resistance fighters with monuments, peaceful gardens, and profound historical resonance.

Unmissable attractions to see

Arboretum

2.3 km

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.

Usserød Å

3.9 km

A gentle North Zealand stream weaving a green, everyday escape through Kokkedal’s neighbourhoods, perfect for unhurried walks, fresh air and simple nature moments.

Store Donse Dam

4.6 km

A tranquil forest-fringed lake in North Zealand where calm water, simple shelters and soft Danish light invite slow walks, campfires and quiet reflection.

Karen Blixen Museum Rungstedlund

4.8 km

Intimate author’s home on the Øresund, where Karen Blixen’s preserved rooms, bird sanctuary and woodland grave reveal the world behind Out of Africa.

Kongeegen i Vedbæk

4.9 km

A quietly impressive old oak on the edge of Vedbæk’s houses and greenery, offering a brief, grounding pause in everyday surroundings.

Rungsted Harbour

4.9 km

Lively Øresund marina where sleek yachts, waterfront cafés, and wide coastal views blend into a relaxed Danish seaside atmosphere all year round.

Vaserne

5.5 km

Sheltered between Birkerød and Sjælsø, Vaserne is a protected wetland reserve of reeds, swamp forest and bird-filled lakes offering quietly immersive nature on the city’s edge.

Kongedyssen

5.8 km

Immerse yourself in Denmark’s most interactive monkey park on the outskirts of Hillerød, offering close encounters, family fun, and a focus on primate welfare.

Nivågård’s Malerisamling

6.4 km

An intimate North Zealand art museum where Renaissance masters, Dutch Baroque painters and Danish Golden Age canvases meet in a romantic garden by the Øresund coast.

Nivå Bugt Strandenge

6.9 km

Low, windswept coastal meadows where Øresund meets the Nivå river, offering tranquil paths, wide skies and remarkably rich birdlife just south of Nivå.

Sommer's Automobile Museum

7.3 km

A three-storey Danish car haven where Jaguars, Volvos and rare home-built specials tell a vivid story of 20th‑century motoring and mechanical passion.

Geels Skov

7.9 km

An accessible Copenhagen-edge woodland of beech trees, clear trails and cosy fire pits, Geels Skov is where everyday life slips easily into fresh-air forest time.

Bøllemosen

8.0 km

Ancient peat bog and beech forest with boardwalk trails, nature playground, and bonfire facilities near Copenhagen.

Store Dyrehave

8.1 km

Historic royal hunting forest turned accessible nature escape, where star-shaped rides, stone dykes and quiet trails reveal North Zealand’s UNESCO-listed landscape.

Kongestjernen i Store Dyrehave

8.1 km

Stand on the king’s stone at Kongestjernen, where eight forest avenues radiate out in a royal star and the quiet woods of Store Dyrehave reveal their world‑heritage geometry.

Essential places to dine

Bistro No. 22

5.0 km

Relaxed harbourfront bistro on Rungsted Havn, serving comforting Nordic brasserie dishes with marina views from light-filled interiors and a lively waterfront terrace.

MASH Rungsted Havn

5.1 km

Harbourfront steakhouse indulgence at Rungsted Havn, where prime cuts, a serious wine list and a broad terrace meet white sails and Øresund views.

Søllerød Kro

6.9 km

Historic thatched Danish inn turned Michelin-starred dining destination, where refined French-inspired cuisine, deep wines and warm village charm meet by a tranquil pond.

Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS

9.4 km

Homely Danish cooking in a farmhouse‑style setting on the edge of Hillerød, ideal for relaxed lunches and family meals after exploring Frederiksborg Castle.

Latini Hjørnet

10.8 km

Casual corner pizzeria and burgerhouse in suburban Hillerød, serving hearty pizzas, pastas and fast‑food favourites for easy eat‑in or takeaway meals.

Hong Kong Bistro & Grill

11.3 km

Unfussy Chinese‑Thai grill and wok spot in Hillerød serving hearty noodles, curries, steaks and spareribs in a simple, relaxed neighborhood setting.

Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang

11.3 km

Contemporary Nordic dining in the heart of Hillerød, open daily for lunch and dinner.

Lakeside Restaurant

11.3 km

Casual dining on the edge of Simons Golf Club, where generous Danish-inspired dishes meet wide green views and a calm North Zealand countryside setting.

Cafe Station Pizza Bar

11.4 km

Casual, station‑side pizza and café classics in the heart of Hillerød’s transport hub, ideal for quick bites, easy dinners and relaxed, no‑frills stopovers.

You Sushi

11.5 km

Casual Japanese-inspired sushi spot by Hillerød station, blending open-kitchen theatrics, ad libitum feasts and easy takeaway for locals and visitors alike.

Gourmet Sushi

11.7 km

Compact sushi specialist by Hillerød station, serving fresh rolls and generous gourmet platters with a relaxed, takeaway‑first vibe and a few informal seats.

Gl. Humlebæk Kro

11.8 km

Historic Danish kro since 1740, serving traditional smørrebrød and coastal hospitality.

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

11.9 km

Authentic Thai flavors prepared by professional chefs in central Hillerød.

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

Restaurant krydderiet

11.9 km

Seasonal Danish cooking with a subtle spiced twist, served in a warm, contemporary dining room inside Hotel Hillerød on Milnersvej.

Tô Tô Kitchen

11.9 km

Cozy Vietnamese flavors and casual evening dining on Østergade, bringing fresh herbs, noodles and warm atmosphere to the heart of Hillerød.

Luxury beauty rituals and wellness products in Hillerød's premier shopping destination.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Oddies Beach Bar

4.9 km

Relaxed beach bar on the sand at Rungsted Havn, blending Nordic coastal charm with a hint of tropical island mood and sweeping Øresund sea views.

Jernstangen

11.5 km

Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.

Crane Brothers

11.9 km

Cosy cocktail bar on Hillerød’s main square, blending inventive drinks, warm design and a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere with access to the adjacent Tahonga Lounge.

Tahonga Lounge

11.9 km

Intimate tiki-style lounge bar off Hillerød’s central square, blending cocktails, small-stage events and private parties in a cozy tropical hideaway.

The Old Irish Pub

12.0 km

Lively Irish-style bar and late-night dance venue on Hillerød’s central square, pouring pints, playing hits and catering to a sociable, mature party crowd.

Møllen

12.3 km

A welcoming Danish bodega in Hillerød's heart, where locals gather for drinks, snacks, and authentic social connection.

Kardusen

17.4 km

Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.

Gotland - Café & Vinbar

19.2 km

Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.

Kompasset Ølbar

19.5 km

Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.

Head/Foam

19.6 km

Modern neighbourhood bar near Helsingør’s historic centre, pouring craft beer and cocktails from midday to the early hours in a lively, social setting.

12`er Pubben

19.8 km

Unpretentious neighborhood bodega in Helsingør with billiards, sports on TV and cold beers, offering an authentic slice of Danish local bar life.

Helsingør Musikteater

19.8 km

Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.

Gefion Bodega

19.9 km

Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.

Strandborg

19.9 km

Waterfront bar and restaurant where Helsingør's harbor views meet casual Nordic dining and evening social scene.

Bubbles Bar

20.0 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Elleskovstien with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Elleskovstien Boardwalk & Marsh, Hørsholm

A brief summary to Elleskovstien

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

S-train and bus from central Copenhagen

Regional bus within North Zealand

Car from Copenhagen and surroundings

Cycling from Hørsholm and nearby towns

Elleskovstien location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Elleskovstien

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Elleskovstien

A Hidden Wetland on the Edge of Hørsholm

From Alder Swamp to Sjælsø’s Quiet Shore

An Outdoor Art Walk in the Woods

A Short, Atmospheric Stroll for Everyday Escapes

Light, Weather and the Mood of the Marsh

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Hørsholm Slotshave

Henriksholm

Furesø

Hillerød St.

Lyngby Storcenter

Hillerød Rectory

Old town hall

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

Country Market

Bagsværd Kirke

Kirppu Hillerød

Ven

Kulsvierstenen

Gribsø

Memorial Park

Unmissable attractions to see

Arboretum

Usserød Å

Store Donse Dam

Karen Blixen Museum Rungstedlund

Kongeegen i Vedbæk

Rungsted Harbour

Vaserne

Kongedyssen

Nivågård’s Malerisamling

Nivå Bugt Strandenge

Sommer's Automobile Museum

Geels Skov

Bøllemosen

Store Dyrehave

Kongestjernen i Store Dyrehave

Essential places to dine

Bistro No. 22

MASH Rungsted Havn

Søllerød Kro

Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS

Latini Hjørnet

Hong Kong Bistro & Grill

Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang

Lakeside Restaurant

Cafe Station Pizza Bar

You Sushi

Gourmet Sushi

Gl. Humlebæk Kro

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

Restaurant krydderiet

Tô Tô Kitchen

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lumi Op Shop

Shoppen

Mothers' Aid Op Shop

Rodes

Vinbutikken

GEjSER ApS

Normal

NEW YORKER

JeansStore

Gine

Spejder Sport