Store Dyrehave: The Royal Hunting Forest of North Zealand
Store Dyrehave offers a blend of royal history, natural beauty, and UNESCO-listed hunting trails, perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting in scenic North Zealand.
Store Dyrehave, located just outside Hillerød in North Zealand, is a sprawling former royal hunting ground now renowned for its tranquil woodlands, unique star-shaped trail network, and stone markers. Visitors can explore scenic paths, historic relics, and rich biodiversity while enjoying cycling, hiking, or picnicking amid northern Denmark’s enchanting forest landscape.
A brief summary to Fredensborg Palace
- Slottet 1B, Fredensborg, 3480, DK
- +4533403187
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see wildlife, especially deer.
- Bring your own food and drinks; there are picnic spots but limited commercial facilities nearby.
- The forest trails are mostly flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and accessible for most visitors.
- Cyclists and mountain bikers should use the designated bike paths to avoid disturbing walkers and riders.
- The stone hunting markers make orienteering fun—pick up a map for a self-guided historical walk.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Store Dyrehave lies close to Hillerød, an easily accessible hub in North Zealand. Regional trains from the area’s main towns typically arrive at Hillerød Station, a recognizable landmark near the imposing Frederiksborg Castle. From the station, local buses serve Ny Hammersholt and the forest's edge in about 10–15 minutes, with single fares for adults usually between 24–36 DKK. The forest is a short walk from the bus stop, with clear signposts guiding visitors into the woodland’s main entrances. Public transport runs throughout the week, though less frequently on Sundays and holidays.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available at Hillerød Station or the city center, making for a quick transfer to Store Dyrehave. The journey, traversing leafy suburban districts, typically takes around 7–12 minutes and costs approximately 100–140 DKK depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Taxis can drop you directly at one of the main car parks or trailheads.
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Driving
Drivers approaching from the heart of North Zealand will find clear signposts towards Hillerød and Store Dyrehave. There are several free parking areas near main entrances. On busy weekends, lots closest to the central trailhead fill quickly, but overflow parking is usually available within a short walk. No tolls apply and parking remains free all year.
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Cycling
Scenic cycle paths run from Hillerød center, passing prominent landmarks such as Frederiksborg Castle and local lakes. The ride to Store Dyrehave’s forest edge takes roughly 10–20 minutes depending on your starting point. There are bike racks at main access points, and the surrounding area is flat and safe for cyclists of all abilities.
Discover more about Fredensborg Palace
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Country Market
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Hillerød Rectory
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Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.
Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød
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Kirppu Hillerød
8.8 km
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Royal Stage
9.0 km
Experience world-class events and versatile facilities at Royal Stage in Hillerød, North Zealand's premier venue for concerts, conferences, sports, and cultural experiences.
Elleskovstien
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Hørsholm Slotshave
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Arboretum
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Rungsted Harbour
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Elsinore Cemetery
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Danhostel Helsingør
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Helsingor
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'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural
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Saint Olaf's Church
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'The maritime history' mural
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Falkonergården
1.7 km
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Gribsø
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Esrum Kloster & Møllegård
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Parforcejagtlandskabet i Store Dyrehave UNESCO World Heritage
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Experience LEGO magic at LEGOLAND Hotel & Conference in Billund, offering themed rooms, direct park access, and top-tier conference facilities.
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Frederiksborg Castle Gardens
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Batzke's Hill
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Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum
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Gavlkunst
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The Museum of National History
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Frederiksborg Castle
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Frederiksborg Castle Chapel
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Island of imagination
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Store Dyrehave
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Store Dyrehave is a UNESCO World Heritage royal hunting forest in North Zealand, famed for its geometric trails, ancient trees, and free-roaming deer.
Essential places to dine
Skipperhuset Fredensborg
0.9 km
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Hong Kong Bistro & Grill
7.2 km
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Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang
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Piccola Italia Pizzaria 3400
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Rabarbergaarden Slottet
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Unkai
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You Sushi
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Royal Taste
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Gourmet Sushi
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Cafe Vivaldi, Hillerød
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Nyu Sakura Hillerod
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Gonzales Cantina
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Sushi Mura
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Restaurant Teddy /by Bjørn
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Frederiksborgcentret's Restauranter ApS
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Mercuri
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Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet
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Ide Nyt
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Helsingør Vinhandel
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Red Cross Op Shop
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Perfectly Worn Vintage
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Nørrebrogade
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Jægersborggade
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PRAG Nørrebro
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Butik Bungalow
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McKorman
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TorvehallerneKBH
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Crane Brothers
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Torvets Café og Vinbar
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Café Valentin
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Oddies Beach Bar
14.5 km
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Axelhus Udeservering
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Axelhus
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Bubbles Bar
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Tap10
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Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
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