Farum Lake (Farum Sø)
A tranquil woodland lake looped by a 10 km trail, rich in birdlife, legends and gentle outdoor adventures just northwest of Copenhagen.
Fringed by beech forest and dotted with story-laden islands, Farum Lake is a tranquil freshwater escape in Furesø Municipality, just northwest of Copenhagen. A 10 km waymarked path traces the shoreline, offering gentle hiking, running and cycling with constant water views, birdlife and pockets of deep woodland. In summer, locals slip in for a swim or hire rowing boats, while year-round it’s a peaceful slice of North Zealand nature that feels surprisingly wild for somewhere so close to the city.
A brief summary to Farum Lake
- Furesø Municipality, DK
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Walk the full Farum Søsti loop (around 10 km) clockwise so the best open views across the lake unfold gradually as you leave town behind.
- Bring insect repellent in late spring and summer, especially for evening walks when mosquitoes are more active near the reed beds.
- If you plan to swim, wear water shoes for comfort on the natural lakebed and check local water-quality updates before going in.
- Pack layers and a windproof jacket outside high summer; breezes across the open water can feel cooler than in the forest.
- Rowing boats are seasonal; visit on a summer weekend or holiday period if hiring a boat is important to your plans.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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S-train and short walk
From central Copenhagen, take S-train line B toward Farum; the journey typically takes 30–35 minutes. Trains usually run every 10–20 minutes during the day and are covered by standard zone tickets, with a one-way adult fare in the range of 40–60 DKK depending on ticket type. From Farum Station it is roughly a 15–25 minute walk on local paths to reach the eastern end of the lake; the route is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers but not ideal for heavy luggage.
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Regional bus from North Zealand
If you are already in North Zealand, buses connecting nearby towns such as Værløse or Birkerød to Farum generally take 15–30 minutes, depending on the route and starting point. Standard bus fares are usually 24–36 DKK for shorter hops within a few zones. Services can be less frequent in the evening and on weekends, so it is wise to check the timetable in advance. Most buses stop within walking distance of the town side of Farum Lake on paved, accessible streets.
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Car from Copenhagen
By car from central Copenhagen, allow about 25–35 minutes in normal traffic to reach Farum and the lake, using the main outbound routes toward North Zealand. Fuel and operating costs vary, but for planning purposes a return trip can be considered in the 60–120 DKK range depending on vehicle and distance driven. Parking near the lake is generally free in signed areas but can be limited on warm summer days; some spots are gravel or forest-edge car parks rather than structured garages.
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Cycling from the Copenhagen suburbs
Strong cyclists can reach Farum Lake from western or northern Copenhagen suburbs in about 45–70 minutes by following the regional cycle network that threads through green corridors toward Furesø Municipality. There is no direct cost beyond bike rental if needed; a day rental typically ranges from 100–200 DKK for a standard bicycle. Expect a mix of paved cycle paths and quieter local roads, generally flat but occasionally rolling, and be prepared for wind exposure on open stretches.
Farum Lake location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Farum Lake
Forest-Framed Waters on Copenhagen’s Green Edge
Farum Lake stretches out in the Mølleå valley, a calm sheet of water framed by dense woodland on its southern and western shores and the town of Farum to the north. Despite its proximity to Copenhagen, it feels distinctly rural: reeds whisper along the banks, tall beech trees lean over the water, and the light shifts constantly across the lake’s surface. This is the third-largest lake in the Mølleå river system, fed by the Hestetangså stream and draining east via the short Fiskebæk into neighbouring Furesø. Motorboats are banned, so you hear oars, birds and wind rather than engines, which gives the entire basin a hushed, almost old-fashioned atmosphere.Nature Reserve and Bird Sanctuary
Farum Lake forms part of a protected nature reserve between Farum and Slangerup, designated both as a habitat area and an EU bird protection site. That status has helped preserve a mosaic of wetlands, reed beds and mature forest that shelters an impressive variety of species. On still days you can watch ducks, grebes and swans threading quiet paths across the water, while diving ducks such as goldeneye and tufted duck often congregate in deeper areas. Marsh harriers circle low over the reeds in summer, and ospreys sometimes pause here on migration, using the lake as a hunting ground. Mink trapping and ongoing habitat management underline how actively the landscape is being looked after.Legends of Islands and Lost Silver
Two small islands punctuate the lake: Svaneholm and the larger Klavs Nars Holm, the latter privately inhabited. Their low silhouettes and tree crowns break the horizon, adding a sense of mystery to the views from shore. Over centuries they have inspired stories blending royal courts, jesters and hidden wealth. Local lore tells of Klavs Nar, a jester in the service of King Valdemar IV, who was allegedly granted the island on the condition he built a house and lived there. Another tale speaks of a royal silver dinner service that slipped overboard from a boat returning from nearby Farumgård manor and disappeared into the depths. Whether or not the treasures are real, the legends add a playful narrative layer to an otherwise tranquil landscape.Walking, Running and Rowing the Shoreline
The best way to experience Farum Lake is to follow the Farum Søsti, a roughly 10 km loop trail that circles the water. The path undulates gently through forest, along open stretches of shoreline and across occasional clearings that reveal wide lake panoramas. It suits walkers, runners and confident cyclists, with several benches and simple rest spots along the way. Every kilometre, carved stones by artist Olaf Johannisson appear beside the path, their reliefs depicting local animals and subtly guiding your progress. In places the trail overlaps with longer pilgrimage routes, so you may notice shell symbols and route markers hinting at journeys that reach far beyond the lake.Summer Swims and Quiet Adventures
In warm weather, the northern shore near Farum becomes a relaxed bathing area, with informal access points where people wade in from the bank. The lake’s water quality has improved considerably over recent years, and while there are no lifeguards, confident swimmers often treat it as a natural outdoor pool. At the eastern end, small rowing boats can be hired in season, allowing you to explore coves and reed-fringed inlets at your own pace. Anglers are drawn to the lake’s deeper slopes and wooded banks, while families often opt for picnics in sun-dappled clearings. Even in winter, the path stays appealing for brisk walks under bare branches and low northern light.Atmosphere Through the Seasons
Farum Lake changes character with the months. Spring brings birdsong and young green leaves; summer stretches long evenings of soft light over the water. Autumn cloaks the surrounding forest in copper and gold, reflected in rippled mirror images across the lake’s surface. On cold, clear days, the combination of crisp air, distant church towers from Farum and the still water gives the area an almost meditative feel. Whether you come for an hour’s stroll or a full circuit, the impression is of a compact landscape that manages to balance gentle recreation with real ecological value, making Farum Lake a rewarding green escape in North Zealand.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Furesø
3.4 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Bagsværd Kirke
6.9 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.
Lyngby Storcenter
9.6 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.
Hørsholm Slotshave
11.9 km
A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.
Henriksholm
13.5 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.
Hillerød St.
14.2 km
North Zealand's essential transport hub connecting Copenhagen, regional destinations, and Frederiksborg Castle.
Hillerød Rectory
14.4 km
Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.
Grundtvig’s Church
14.4 km
A monumental brick cathedral of Nordic minimalism and light, Grundtvig’s Church fuses expressionist form with Gothic scale on a quiet Copenhagen hillside.
Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød
14.4 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.
Old town hall
14.5 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.
Kirppu Hillerød
15.2 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.
The Red Square
16.1 km
A striking, modern city square in Nørrebro, where bold Danish design meets global cultures, street art, and vibrant local life in Copenhagen’s most diverse borough.
Kildevældsparken
16.2 km
Experience a slice of authentic Copenhagen life at Kildevældsparken, Østerbro’s serene neighborhood park with a charming pond and lush greenery.
Tuborgflasken
16.2 km
A 26‑metre green beer bottle by the Hellerup waterfront, Tuborgflasken blends quirky novelty architecture with the living history of Copenhagen’s brewing past.
Bananna Park
16.4 km
Eclectic urban park blending street art, climbing, and skate culture in the heart of Nørrebro—a vibrant hub for locals, families, and visitors year-round.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fiskebæk Naturskole
1.5 km
Rustic forest school and shelter camp on the edge of Værløse, where crackling campfires, simple shelters and tall trees turn everyday nature into an easy escape.
Søndersø
3.1 km
A calm forest-rimmed lake on the edge of Værløse, offering easy paths, soft water views and an everyday slice of Danish outdoor life close to Copenhagen.
Drive in Put and Take
4.0 km
Spacious put & take lakes in a reclaimed gravel pit near Copenhagen, pairing clear water and easy access with relaxed, family-friendly trout fishing.
Vaserne
5.8 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.
The Bastrup Tower
5.9 km
A massive 12th-century stone tower rising above Bastrup Lake, blending medieval military power, quiet countryside and evocative ruin in rural North Zealand.
Stendysser
6.1 km
Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the serene landscapes of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.
Sophienholm
6.7 km
Historic country house turned lakeside art hall, where contemporary exhibitions, a romantic English‑style park and a cosy café meet just north of Copenhagen.
Klopstocks eg
7.1 km
Discover Store Dyrehave in North Zealand: a historic royal deer forest with unique star-shaped paths, tranquil wildlife, and lush woodlands perfect for outdoor adventures.
Lake Bagsværd
7.4 km
Long, tranquil lake on Copenhagen’s northern fringe, where everyday walks, picnics and wildlife share the shoreline with a world-class rowing course.
Geels Skov
8.0 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.
The Open Air Museum
8.2 km
Step into 300 years of rural Danish life among thatched farms, windmills, animals and gardens in one of the world’s largest historic open‑air museums.
Open Air Museum
8.4 km
One of the world’s largest open‑air museums, Frilandsmuseet gathers centuries of Danish rural life into a single village of farms, mills, animals and gardens.
Lyngby Folkepark
8.7 km
A relaxed patch of green by Lyngby Lake, where everyday walks, dog runs and quiet pauses connect suburban life with the water and woodland north of Copenhagen.
Mindebænk for Viggo Stuckenberg
9.0 km
A modest stone-framed bench in Sorgenfri Slotshave, offering a quiet, poetic pause where Viggo Stuckenberg once found inspiration amid royal parkland.
Baadfarten Boat Tour
9.1 km
Historic wooden boats, tranquil lakes and forested shores combine on this leisurely North Zealand cruise just outside Copenhagen.
Essential places to dine
Søllerød Kro
8.4 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
11.4 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.
Restaurant krydderiet
13.6 km
Seasonal Danish cooking with a subtle spiced twist, served in a warm, contemporary dining room inside Hotel Hillerød on Milnersvej.
Cafe Station Pizza Bar
14.1 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
14.1 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
14.3 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.
Café Kaiser
14.4 km
Relaxed all‑day Danish café inside Hillerød’s Slotsarkaderne, serving hearty brunch, smørrebrød, burgers and drinks in a warm, mall‑side setting.
Duero
14.4 km
Spanish-inspired tapas, grilled meats and Iberian wines in a warm, multi-level restaurant overlooking Hillerød’s central square, perfect for both dates and group gatherings.
Torvet's Pizza & Kebab
14.4 km
Busy pizzeria and kebab grill on Hillerød’s main square, serving generous, inexpensive comfort food to locals and castle‑goers from lunch through late evening.
Indian Spice
14.4 km
Cozy Indian restaurant on Hillerød’s main square, serving classic curries, tandoori dishes and vegetarian options in a warm, homely atmosphere.
Samurai sushi
14.4 km
Contemporary sushi excellence in the heart of Hillerød's central square.
Nyu Sakura Hillerod
14.4 km
Authentic running sushi and Japanese cuisine in Hillerød's vibrant town center.
Sushi Mura
14.5 km
Handcrafted Japanese sushi with fresh seafood and creative flair in modern Hillerød.
Restaurant Teddy /by Bjørn
14.5 km
High class, low key: an intimate Hillerød dining room where a local chef turns seasonal Nordic ingredients into refined, social-sharing menus and relaxed gourmet evenings.
Cafe Vivaldi, Hillerød
14.5 km
Relaxed all‑day café on Hillerød’s main square, serving hearty brunches, burgers and coffee with views onto Torvet’s everyday bustle and historic surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Late Morning Post Photographer
9.7 km
Fine art wedding and family photography studio capturing authentic moments with artistic vision and warmth.
Rodes
14.4 km
Two floors of toys, gear and airsoft in an 800 m² megastore that turns central Hillerød into a playground for kids, teens and grown‑up hobby enthusiasts.
Mothers' Aid Op Shop
14.4 km
Bright, family‑focused charity shop on Hillerød’s main square, where gently used children’s clothes and toys support vital work for parents and kids in Denmark.
ONLY
14.5 km
Scandi high-street fashion and denim-focused style for women, conveniently located inside Hillerød’s Slotsarkaderne shopping centre.
Vinbutikken
14.5 km
Cosy wine and delicacies shop on historic Slotsgade in Hillerød, pairing castle-side charm with handpicked bottles, gourmet treats and friendly, expert advice.
GEjSER ApS
14.5 km
Expert vape shop on Slotsgade offering quality e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and accessories for all experience levels.
JACK & JONES
14.5 km
Easygoing menswear and denim inside Hillerød’s main shopping centre, combining Scandinavian style, everyday essentials and smart-casual looks under one roof.
Rituals
14.5 km
Luxury beauty rituals and wellness products in Hillerød's premier shopping destination.
NORMAL
14.5 km
A compact, budget-friendly beauty and household store inside Hillerød’s main mall, perfect for quick essentials, quirky finds and travel-sized Danish everyday goods.
NEW YORKER
14.5 km
Contemporary fashion trends and accessible style in Hillerød's shopping heart.
SlotsArkaderne
14.5 km
North Zealand's premier shopping destination where modern retail meets royal heritage in the heart of historic Hillerød.
Glitter
14.5 km
Bright, trend-focused jewelry and accessories shop in Hillerød’s SlotsArkaderne mall, ideal for quick gifts, style updates and affordable everyday sparkle.
Pilgrim Hillerød Slotsarkaderne
14.5 km
Handcrafted Danish jewellery celebrating personal style, quality, and Scandinavian design.
VERO MODA
14.5 km
Central Hillerød fashion stop in SlotsArkaderne, offering accessible Scandinavian women’s style, seasonal collections and easy indoor browsing in a modern mall setting.
Karmen & Kamelia
14.5 km
A bright, modern jewelry and accessories boutique in Hillerød’s SlotsArkaderne mall, offering handpicked Scandinavian sparkle and easy gift ideas steps from city life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jernstangen
14.1 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
14.4 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
14.4 km
Intimate tiki-style lounge bar off Hillerød’s central square, blending cocktails, small-stage events and private parties in a cozy tropical hideaway.
Oddies Beach Bar
14.4 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.
The Old Irish Pub
14.5 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
14.7 km
A welcoming Danish bodega in Hillerød's heart, where locals gather for drinks, snacks, and authentic social connection.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
16.4 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer, where craft beers and fine whiskies await in a vibrant atmosphere.
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
16.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
Skovbar
17.0 km
Small, punk-spirited and queer-friendly bar in Nørrebro with vegan drinks, inclusive vibes and intimate music nights at budget-friendly prices.
Kompasset Ølbar
17.0 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
17.1 km
Experience the best of Denmark's brewing heritage at Frederiksberg Ølbar, a cozy bar with a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
Klovnens Bodega
17.1 km
Discover the heart of Nørrebro at Klovnens Bodega, a cozy pub offering a delightful atmosphere and a taste of local culture.
Paloma Vermuteria
17.2 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
BRUS
17.3 km
Discover the best craft beers and seasonal dishes at BRUS, Copenhagen's top brewpub for foodies and beer lovers alike.
Bubbles Bar
17.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Wildlife Habitat
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Myth & Legends
- 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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
