Geels Skov
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.
Geels Skov is a broad beech and mixed woodland on the northern fringe of Copenhagen, tucked just outside Virum. Crisscrossed by walking, running and cycling paths, it offers an easy escape into nature with gently rolling terrain, clear wayfinding and designated fire pits and picnic spots. Families, dog walkers and orienteering enthusiasts share the forest’s mossy clearings, old trees and seasonal colours, from spring wildflowers to golden autumn leaves.
A brief summary to Geels Skov
- Geelskovparken 52, Virum, 2830, DK
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Pack simple food and use the designated fire places for a classic Danish forest meal; check any local fire regulations or seasonal restrictions before lighting a fire.
- Wear shoes suitable for mixed terrain; main paths are firm, but smaller tracks can be muddy and rooty after rain, especially in low-lying sections.
- If you are walking a dog, look for signage indicating where off-lead exercise is allowed and bring bags, as bins are clustered mainly near main access points.
- Pick up an orienteering map or use a printed forest map to explore less obvious routes; it adds a playful navigation challenge to a standard forest walk.
- Visit in autumn for particularly atmospheric beech colours and softer light, ideal for photography and longer, cooler hikes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public transport from central Copenhagen
Take an S-train on line E towards Holte or Hillerød and get off at Virum Station; the ride from Copenhagen Central typically takes 20–30 minutes. From the station, expect roughly 15–25 minutes of walking on mostly paved, gently sloping streets and then forest paths to reach the main edge of Geels Skov. Trains usually run every 10–20 minutes throughout the day, and travel is covered by standard Greater Copenhagen zone tickets, with one-way fares commonly in the range of 25–40 DKK depending on your starting zone.
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Regional rail via Holte with short walk
Alternatively, ride the S-train on line E to Holte Station, about 20–25 minutes from central Copenhagen. From Holte, walks into the northern parts of Geels Skov generally take 15–20 minutes on a combination of pavements and broad forest tracks with mild gradients. Holte is a good option if you want to link a forest visit with nearby lakes and other green areas. Standard S-train tickets apply, and a one-way trip from the city centre usually falls between 25–40 DKK depending on zones.
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Car or taxi from Copenhagen
By car or taxi, expect a 20–35 minute drive from central Copenhagen to the Virum side of Geels Skov under typical traffic conditions. Several small parking areas and residential streets near the forest edge offer limited parking; these can fill up on sunny weekends and public holidays, so arrive earlier in the day if you plan to park close to the woods. Taxi fares from the city centre often range around 250–400 DKK one way, varying with traffic and exact pickup point.
Geels Skov location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Hot Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Geels Skov
A Quiet Forest Edge to Greater Copenhagen
Geels Skov stretches along the suburban edge of Virum, forming part of a green belt just north of Copenhagen. This is not a wilderness in the dramatic sense, but a welcoming everyday forest where locals slip between housing estates and tall beeches in just a few minutes. Paths fan out quickly from the forest edge, so within a short walk the sound of traffic softens into birdsong and the crunch of gravel underfoot. The woodland is gently undulating rather than steep, with broad trails suitable for prams and casual cyclists alongside narrower tracks used by runners and nature lovers seeking quieter corners. In places the canopy closes overhead to form green corridors; elsewhere, small glades open up, dotted with benches or simple clearings in the grass.Beech Woods, Clearings and Seasonal Colour
The forest is dominated by classic Danish beech, their smooth grey trunks and high crowns creating a bright, airy feel even in the denser sections. Mixed stands of oak, spruce and younger plantings break up the beech, giving variety to the understory where ferns, brambles and spring flowers take turns through the year. Fallen logs and old stumps host fungi and moss, adding texture and colour at ground level. Seasonality is one of Geels Skov’s quiet pleasures. In spring, fresh green leaves filter soft light onto the trails, while summer brings deep shade and a cool microclimate on hot days. Autumn transforms the forest into layers of orange and copper, particularly striking in the older beech stands, and winter reveals the structure of the terrain, with views extending further between bare trunks.Everyday Recreation in a Local Green Lung
This is a working recreational forest, designed to be used rather than simply admired from afar. Wide, firm forest roads are popular with joggers and families out for a relaxed stroll, while narrower paths invite more exploratory walking. Cyclists share many of the wider routes, and the overall gradient remains modest, making the area accessible to a broad range of fitness levels. Open spots with grass and simple amenities form natural gathering points. These are where you will often find families cooking over designated fire places, groups enjoying informal picnics and children turning fallen branches into improvised shelters. Clear signposting and route markers help visitors orient themselves, whether they are aiming for a short loop or a longer circuit linking neighbouring green areas.Orienteering, Dog Walking and Forest Skills
Geels Skov has become a favourite training ground for orienteering, with detailed maps and a varied network of paths, knolls and ditches that lend themselves to navigation exercises. Local clubs use the forest for practice and events, and even casual visitors may notice small control markers or posts tucked among the trees. Dog owners are another constant presence, drawn by the generous space and relaxed atmosphere. Certain areas are particularly popular for off-lead play where permitted, while the trail network allows for longer, more structured walks. The layout of the forest, with clear main routes and signboards at key junctions, makes it easy to extend or shorten a walk on the fly.Campfire Spots and Family-Friendly Corners
One of the forest’s distinctive features is the provision of well-defined fire places and picnic areas. Fire pits are clearly bordered and often accompanied by basic seating, helping to minimise impact on the wider woodland while still allowing the classic Scandinavian experience of cooking over an open flame. On still evenings, the smell of woodsmoke drifts between the trees, mingling with the resin and leaf litter. These facilities make Geels Skov especially appealing for simple outdoor gatherings: sausages on sticks, bread twisted around skewers, hot chocolate from a thermos and unhurried time to explore. Because the forest is close to residential areas yet feels removed from them, it works equally well for a quick hour of fresh air or a longer half-day of relaxed pottering from clearing to clearing.A Green Connector in North Zealand
Beyond its immediate role as a local parkland, Geels Skov forms part of a wider mosaic of lakes, fields and woods in North Zealand. Trails can be combined with routes towards nearby lakes and neighbouring forests, allowing longer excursions that still feel safely tethered to urban amenities. For many residents, it is both a stand-alone destination and a starting point for extended walks. The forest’s character lies in this balance: structured yet natural, clearly managed yet still full of small surprises. A rustle in the undergrowth might reveal a deer, a quiet path might suddenly open onto a sunlit meadow, and a routine afternoon walk can, with a small detour, turn into a miniature adventure through one of Greater Copenhagen’s most accessible woodlands.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lyngby Storcenter
3.8 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.
Furesø
4.9 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Bagsværd Kirke
5.5 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.
Henriksholm
7.2 km
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Hørsholm Slotshave
8.0 km
A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.
Grundtvig’s Church
10.1 km
A monumental brick cathedral of Nordic minimalism and light, Grundtvig’s Church fuses expressionist form with Gothic scale on a quiet Copenhagen hillside.
Kildevældsparken
11.1 km
Experience a slice of authentic Copenhagen life at Kildevældsparken, Østerbro’s serene neighborhood park with a charming pond and lush greenery.
The Red Square
12.1 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.
Fælledparken
12.4 km
Copenhagen’s largest and most beloved city park, Fælledparken offers a dynamic blend of green tranquility, local culture, sports, and major city events in Østerbro.
Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk
12.5 km
Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.
The Tower Playground
12.9 km
Award-winning Copenhagen playground where kids explore & climb miniature city towers; centrally located in Fælledparken with family-friendly facilities.
Folkets Park
13.6 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
The Lakes
13.7 km
Three interconnected urban lakes offering year-round recreation, birdlife, and the essence of Copenhagen's outdoor culture.
The Lakes in Copenhagen
13.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of The Lakes in Copenhagen, a captivating blend of nature and city life, perfect for relaxation and picturesque views.
Søtorvet 2
13.9 km
Elegant 1870s residential landmark where French architecture meets Copenhagen's cultural legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Open Air Museum
1.2 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.
The Open Air Museum
2.1 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.
Sommer's Automobile Museum
2.9 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.
Mindebænk for Viggo Stuckenberg
3.0 km
A modest stone-framed bench in Sorgenfri Slotshave, offering a quiet, poetic pause where Viggo Stuckenberg once found inspiration amid royal parkland.
Klopstocks eg
3.2 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.
Baadfarten Boat Tour
3.6 km
Historic wooden boats, tranquil lakes and forested shores combine on this leisurely North Zealand cruise just outside Copenhagen.
Vaserne
3.7 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.
Lyngby Folkepark
3.8 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.
Sophienholm
3.8 km
Elegant 18th-century country house turned art hall, set in a romantic landscape park on Bagsværd Lake with changing exhibitions, sculpture-filled lawns and a cosy café.
Templet
3.9 km
Intimate, no‑frills live venue in Kongens Lyngby where loud guitars, close‑up performances and a local crowd turn a modest room into a night of amplified energy.
Lake Bagsværd
4.1 km
Long, tranquil lake on Copenhagen’s northern fringe, where everyday walks, picnics and wildlife share the shoreline with a world-class rowing course.
Jægersborg Dyrehave
4.9 km
UNESCO-listed royal deer park just north of Copenhagen, where ancient oaks, open meadows and free-roaming herds create a vast, car-free escape from the city.
Bøllemosen
5.2 km
Ancient peat bog and beech forest with boardwalk trails, nature playground, and bonfire facilities near Copenhagen.
The Hermitage Hunting Lodge
5.2 km
Explore Denmark's rich glass and ceramic heritage at Holmegaard Værk, featuring live demonstrations, extensive collections, and interactive workshops.
Stendysser
5.7 km
Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the serene landscapes of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.
Essential places to dine
Søllerød Kro
1.1 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.
Bistro No. 22
9.6 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
9.7 km
Harbourfront steakhouse indulgence at Rungsted Havn, where prime cuts, a serious wine list and a broad terrace meet white sails and Øresund views.
Gro Eatery
11.3 km
Experience modern Nordic cuisine in an urban rooftop farm setting at Gro Eatery, where seasonal tasting menus and city views meet Danish sustainability in Østerbro.
PAX
11.8 km
Experience innovative Italian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Østerbro at PAX, where a dynamic menu and cozy ambiance await.
Cafe 33
12.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of vodka at Cafe 33's unique Vodka Museum in Vanløse.
Geranium
12.3 km
Geranium offers a world-class New Nordic tasting experience in Copenhagen, uniting innovative Scandinavian cuisine, sustainable luxury, and panoramic city views.
Restaurant Madklubben Østerbro
12.4 km
Enjoy approachable modern Danish cuisine and vibrant local life in the stylish heart of Østerbro at Restaurant Madklubben, where good food and great company meet.
Restaurant Silo
12.6 km
Contemporary Nordic dining and cocktails on the 17th floor of a converted grain silo, with sweeping harbor and city views across Copenhagen’s evolving Nordhavn waterfront.
Hos Fischer
12.7 km
Experience authentic Italian trattoria dining and neighborhood hospitality at Hos Fischer, a beloved Østerbro culinary gem near the tranquil green heart of Copenhagen.
Sushi Anaba
12.8 km
Europe's finest omakase counter, where Nordic seafood meets Tokyo precision in an eight-seat sanctuary of culinary excellence.
Street Food 108
12.9 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Street Food 108 in Copenhagen's vibrant Nørrebro district - a delightful taste adventure awaits!
Gaarden & Gaden
13.1 km
Discover Gaarden & Gaden, a stylishly laid-back bistro in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, serving inventive local cuisine and natural wines in a warm, communal setting.
Bæst
13.1 km
Experience Nørrebro’s celebrated Bæst, where organic Italian pizzas and in-house charcuterie meet Scandinavian sustainability and vibrant Danish hospitality.
Aroii - Nørrebro
13.2 km
Savor inventive Asian fusion cuisine in lively Nørrebro, where Aroii delivers creative Thai-inspired plates and vibrant ambiance in one of Copenhagen’s buzziest districts.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Late Morning Post Photographer
4.9 km
Fine art wedding and family photography studio capturing authentic moments with artistic vision and warmth.
Red Cross Op Shop
12.7 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
12.8 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and timeless fashion in the heart of Nørrebro’s creative district at Perfectly Worn Vintage, Copenhagen’s haven for unique style.
PRAG Nørrebro
13.5 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Butik Bungalow
13.6 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
McKorman
13.7 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
Frederiksberg Centret
13.9 km
Frederiksberg Centret offers a sleek, Scandinavian shopping experience with 90+ stores, cafés, and events in the chic heart of Frederiksberg, steps from the Metro.
Rødovre Centrum
14.0 km
Denmark’s original modern shopping mall, blending big‑name stores, cinema and family‑friendly leisure in a spacious all‑weather hub west of central Copenhagen.
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
14.1 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage and timeless design at discounted prices in Frederiksberg’s celebrated Royal Copenhagen Outlet, close to the city’s green heart.
TorvehallerneKBH
14.3 km
A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Copenhagen, TorvehallerneKBH blends Danish culinary tradition with global flavors across over 60 food and drink stalls.
Exotic Mix
14.3 km
Gourmet nuts, dried fruits and chocolate dragées from around the world, served from a colourful family‑run stall inside Copenhagen’s Torvehallerne market.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
14.4 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Fjällräven
14.6 km
A compact Fjällräven brand shop on historic Kultorvet, pairing Scandinavian outdoor design with expert gear advice in the heart of Copenhagen’s old town.
The Crown souvenir
14.6 km
Compact, colorful souvenir stop on elegant Amaliegade, perfect for picking up Danish flags, Little Mermaid trinkets and royal-themed keepsakes near Amalienborg.
Souvenir Gifts shop
14.6 km
Classic Copenhagen souvenirs in a compact, central shop on historic Købmagergade, perfect for last‑minute gifts and easy-to-pack mementos from the Danish capital.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oddies Beach Bar
9.4 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.
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
11.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
Kompasset Ølbar
11.8 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
Bubbles Bar
12.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.
Tap10
12.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
12.4 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.
Østerbros Perle Pub
12.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
Chevy's
12.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Chevy's in Østerbro, Copenhagen—where delicious drinks and good company create unforgettable nights.
ØB
12.9 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.
Trianglen 7
12.9 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen wine culture at Trianglen 7, a charming wine bar offering a curated selection and an inviting atmosphere.
Paloma Vermuteria
13.0 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik - Østerbro
13.1 km
Explore the finest wines at ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik in Østerbro, Copenhagen – where every sip tells a story.
Skovbar
13.1 km
Small, punk-spirited and queer-friendly bar in Nørrebro with vegan drinks, inclusive vibes and intimate music nights at budget-friendly prices.
Søernes Ølbar
13.1 km
Discover Søernes Ølbar, a cozy craft beer haven by Copenhagen's lakes, offering an extensive selection of brews and breathtaking views.
BRUS
13.1 km
Discover the best craft beers and seasonal dishes at BRUS, Copenhagen's top brewpub for foodies and beer lovers alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
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
