Søndersø Lake, Værløse
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.
Søndersø is a peaceful freshwater lake on the southern edge of Værløse, north of Copenhagen. Framed by mixed woodland and gentle banks, it offers easy lakeside paths for walking, running, and cycling, plus quiet corners for picnics and birdwatching. With its calm water, reeds, and views back toward the forested outskirts of town, it feels like a quick countryside escape while still being close to suburban neighborhoods and public transport connections.
A brief summary to Søndersø
- Værløse, DK
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring comfortable walking shoes; some sections of the lakeside path can be uneven or muddy after rain, especially under the trees.
- Pack a thermos or picnic and use the quieter grassy clearings as informal picnic spots with uninterrupted lake views.
- Visit around early morning or late afternoon on clear days for especially beautiful light and calm reflections on the water.
- In cooler months, dress in windproof layers; the air can feel noticeably cooler by the open water than in the nearby streets.
- Keep to marked paths and avoid trampling reed beds to protect bird habitats and maintain the lake’s natural shoreline.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and short walk from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take the S-train line to Værløse Station; the ride typically takes about 30–35 minutes and is covered by standard Greater Copenhagen public transport tickets. From the station, allow around 20–30 minutes on foot along local streets and green corridors to reach the lakeside paths. Trains usually run several times per hour throughout the day, with reduced frequency in late evenings and on some weekends.
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Regional bus within the Furesø area
Local buses connecting nearby suburbs and residential districts stop in the Værløse area within walking distance of Søndersø. Depending on your starting point in the Copenhagen region, travel time is typically 20–45 minutes. Standard zone-based fares apply and can be paid with travel cards or mobile tickets. Services are generally frequent on weekdays, with slightly longer intervals on evenings and Sundays, so it is worth checking the latest timetable before setting out.
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Cycling from nearby suburbs
Søndersø is reachable by bicycle from neighbouring areas such as Farum, Bagsværd or other parts of Furesø via a network of local roads and cycle-friendly routes. Expect 20–40 minutes of cycling depending on distance and fitness. The terrain is mostly gentle with a few mild inclines and typical Danish weather conditions—wind and occasional showers—are the main factors to plan around. There is no specific fee for bike access, but bring lights and reflective gear if you expect to return after dark.
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Taxi or rideshare within the Copenhagen region
Taxis and rideshare services operate throughout the Copenhagen area and can drop you close to the lake’s access points in Værløse. From central Copenhagen, the road journey commonly takes around 25–35 minutes in light traffic. Fares vary by operator and time of day but are generally in the mid-range for a suburban trip of this length; expect higher prices late at night or during peak traffic periods. There is no dedicated drop-off zone, so agree a convenient meeting point nearby for your return.
Søndersø 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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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Søndersø
A forest-framed lake on Copenhagen’s green fringe
Søndersø sits at the southern side of Værløse, where suburban streets give way to woodland and open water. The lake forms part of a wider green belt between Farum Lake to the north and the forests that wrap around this edge of Greater Copenhagen, creating an easy-to-reach pocket of nature. Paths hug much of the shoreline, dipping in and out of trees, with glimpses of quiet coves and reed beds. Despite the proximity to town, the mood is distinctly rural: you see low banks, overhanging branches and the occasional wooden jetty rather than heavy development. It is the sort of place where dog walkers, joggers and families pass each other in a low-key rhythm, everyone sharing the same simple aim of fresh air and a bit of space.Landscape of reeds, reflections and seasonal colour
The character of Søndersø changes subtly with the seasons. In spring, new leaves give the encircling forest a soft, lime-green fringe and you may notice waterbirds staking out nesting spots in the reeds. Summer brings longer evenings when the lake becomes a mirror, reflecting high Scandinavian skies and the silhouettes of trees on still water. By autumn, the surrounding woodland turns copper and gold, transforming even a short stroll into a scenic loop under crackling leaves. In colder months the atmosphere is quieter and more introspective, with pale light across the water and mist sometimes hanging low over the surface, though paths remain inviting for wrapped-up walks.A relaxed escape for walkers, runners and picnickers
Søndersø is especially known as an easy outdoor escape rather than a highly structured facility. A network of unhurried paths makes it straightforward to choose anything from a brief shoreline wander to a full circuit of the lake at a steady pace. Runners use the loop as a natural track, gaining gentle gradients and varied terrain without ever being far from the water. Grassy patches and small clearings offer natural picnic spots where you can spread a blanket and watch the light shift across the lake. Benches appear at intervals, useful for pausing with a coffee, a book or simply to rest and enjoy the view. The absence of loud attractions keeps the soundscape light: birds, wind in the trees and the occasional murmur of conversation.Wildlife moments on the edge of the city
For a relatively modest lake so close to a residential area, Søndersø supports a satisfying slice of local wildlife. Ducks, swans and coots are regulars, and you may see herons standing motionless at the margins. In summer, dragonflies flicker over the water and small fish move in the shallower stretches near jetties and reeds. The surrounding forested areas host songbirds and, with a bit of patience, you might catch sight of deer moving between thickets at quieter times of day. Even when wildlife encounters are brief, the sense of being in a living landscape is strong, reminding you how quickly nature reasserts itself at the city’s edges.Everyday Copenhagen life lived outdoors
More than a remote beauty spot, Søndersø functions as an outdoor living room for nearby residents. It is common to see people using the paths before and after work, children exploring the shoreline with adults, and friends meeting for an unhurried stroll instead of an indoor café catch-up. This everyday use lends the lake an unfussy, welcoming feel. For visitors, joining this gentle flow is part of the appeal. You can experience a typical Danish approach to outdoor life: practical clothing, relaxed pace, and an easy comfort with being outside in most conditions. A simple thermos, a snack and a willingness to linger by the water are all you really need.Practical notes for a low-key lakeside visit
Søndersø is free to access at all times and has no formal entrance. There are a few spots with benches and informal picnic areas, and you will usually find trash bins at main access points, helping keep the shoreline clean. Some stretches of the path are wide and level, while others are narrower or can become muddy after rain, so footwear with decent grip is helpful. Mobile reception is generally good given the suburban setting, though the atmosphere feels far more rural than the signal bars suggest. Most people spend between one and two hours here, enough time for an unhurried circuit or a shorter walk with breaks to sit and take in the water views.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Furesø
4.5 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Bagsværd Kirke
6.1 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
9.7 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.
Grundtvig’s Church
13.3 km
A monumental brick cathedral of Nordic minimalism and light, Grundtvig’s Church fuses expressionist form with Gothic scale on a quiet Copenhagen hillside.
Hørsholm Slotshave
14.6 km
A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.
The Red Square
14.8 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
15.2 km
Experience a slice of authentic Copenhagen life at Kildevældsparken, Østerbro’s serene neighborhood park with a charming pond and lush greenery.
Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk
15.3 km
Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.
Frederiksbergmuseerne
15.6 km
Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.
Møstings Hus
15.6 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
Henriksholm
15.7 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.
Hans Tavsens Park
15.8 km
Explore the peaceful retreat of Hans Tavsens Park in Copenhagen, a perfect blend of nature and tranquility for every traveler.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
15.8 km
Brick-clad beacon of Frederiksberg’s independence, this 1950s functionalist town hall blends civic power, mid‑century Danish design and views across leafy Copenhagen.
Frederiksberg Gardens
15.8 km
Denmark’s grandest city park, Frederiksberg Gardens blends royal history, natural beauty, and tranquil waterways in a lush heart-of-Copenhagen escape.
Fælledparken
16.0 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Farum Lake
3.1 km
A tranquil woodland lake looped by a 10 km trail, rich in birdlife, legends and gentle outdoor adventures just northwest of Copenhagen.
Fiskebæk Naturskole
3.6 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.
Stendysser
5.2 km
Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the serene landscapes of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.
Drive in Put and Take
5.6 km
Spacious put & take lakes in a reclaimed gravel pit near Copenhagen, pairing clear water and easy access with relaxed, family-friendly trout fishing.
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.
The Bastrup Tower
6.8 km
A massive 12th-century stone tower rising above Bastrup Lake, blending medieval military power, quiet countryside and evocative ruin in rural North Zealand.
Lake Bagsværd
7.2 km
Long, tranquil lake on Copenhagen’s northern fringe, where everyday walks, picnics and wildlife share the shoreline with a world-class rowing course.
Klopstocks eg
7.3 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.
Vaserne
8.1 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.
Tysmosen Naturist Camping FKK
8.5 km
Leafy naturist campground near Copenhagen with free-clothing ethos, seasonal pool, grassy pitches and a calm, community feel amid fields and trees.
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.
The Open Air Museum
8.8 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.
Baadfarten Boat Tour
9.2 km
Historic wooden boats, tranquil lakes and forested shores combine on this leisurely North Zealand cruise just outside Copenhagen.
Mindebænk for Viggo Stuckenberg
9.3 km
A modest stone-framed bench in Sorgenfri Slotshave, offering a quiet, poetic pause where Viggo Stuckenberg once found inspiration amid royal parkland.
Geels Skov
9.3 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.
Essential places to dine
Søllerød Kro
10.0 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.
Cafe 33
13.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of vodka at Cafe 33's unique Vodka Museum in Vanløse.
Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS
14.2 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.
Café Lindevang
14.9 km
A beloved Frederiksberg institution, Café Lindevang serves up hearty Danish classics and authentic smørrebrød in cozy, vintage surroundings steeped in local charm.
Gro Eatery
15.3 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.
Restaurant Frederiks Have
15.4 km
Frederiksberg’s cherished fine dining hub, blending Nordic tradition with modern cuisine in a welcoming, neighborhood setting—perfect for an authentic Danish gastronomic experience.
Street Food 108
15.6 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Street Food 108 in Copenhagen's vibrant Nørrebro district - a delightful taste adventure awaits!
Gaarden & Gaden
15.8 km
Discover Gaarden & Gaden, a stylishly laid-back bistro in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, serving inventive local cuisine and natural wines in a warm, communal setting.
PAX
15.9 km
Experience innovative Italian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Østerbro at PAX, where a dynamic menu and cozy ambiance await.
JATAK
15.9 km
Intimate Nørrebro dining where New Nordic produce meets the bold, personal Asian flavors of chef Jonathan Tam in a calm, minimalist Michelin-starred setting.
Ewalds Brasserie
15.9 km
Classic Danish-French brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, offering seasonal menus, a cozy atmosphere, and stunning garden views for an authentic local dining experience.
Bæst
16.0 km
Experience Nørrebro’s celebrated Bæst, where organic Italian pizzas and in-house charcuterie meet Scandinavian sustainability and vibrant Danish hospitality.
Aroii - Nørrebro
16.0 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.
Kiin Kiin
16.0 km
Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in Copenhagen’s Nørrebro, offering inventive tasting menus and modern fine dining that blend Southeast Asian flavors with Nordic influences.
Hooked Nørrebro
16.1 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Hooked Nørrebro in Copenhagen - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors in a vibrant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Late Morning Post Photographer
9.4 km
Fine art wedding and family photography studio capturing authentic moments with artistic vision and warmth.
Rødovre Centrum
12.7 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.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
15.2 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.
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
15.3 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.
Copenhagen Designer Outlet
15.4 km
Denmark’s largest outlet mall, pairing Scandinavian design with year-round discounts and easy comfort beside the City2 shopping centre in Taastrup.
Frederiksberg Centret
15.6 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.
PRAG Nørrebro
16.3 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Butik Bungalow
16.5 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
16.5 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
Red Cross Op Shop
16.7 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Værnedamsvej
17.0 km
Copenhagen’s beloved Parisian-style street, brimming with independent shops, cafés, wine bars, and Scandinavian charm between vibrant Vesterbro and Frederiksberg.
Artikel København
17.1 km
Family-run Copenhagen atelier where timeless, unisex garments are designed, cut and sewn in an open workshop on historic Gammel Kongevej.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
17.2 km
Compact, colorful and full of playful Danish design, this Vesterbrogade shop turns everyday essentials, gifts and games into a fun, low-cost treasure hunt.
TorvehallerneKBH
17.2 km
A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Copenhagen, TorvehallerneKBH blends Danish culinary tradition with global flavors across over 60 food and drink stalls.
Rodes
17.2 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
15.1 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.
Skovbar
15.5 km
Small, punk-spirited and queer-friendly bar in Nørrebro with vegan drinks, inclusive vibes and intimate music nights at budget-friendly prices.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
15.5 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
15.6 km
Discover the heart of Nørrebro at Klovnens Bodega, a cozy pub offering a delightful atmosphere and a taste of local culture.
Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar - Frederiksberg
15.7 km
Experience the craft of brewing at Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar, Frederiksberg's premier destination for beer lovers with an extensive selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Paloma Vermuteria
15.8 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
Gensyn Bar
15.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg C at Gensyn Bar, known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Cafe Intime
15.9 km
Discover the charm of Cafe Intime, a cozy bar and cafe in Frederiksberg offering delightful drinks and a warm ambiance for every visitor.
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
15.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
BRUS
16.0 km
Discover the best craft beers and seasonal dishes at BRUS, Copenhagen's top brewpub for foodies and beer lovers alike.
Kompasset Ølbar
16.1 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
The Mudhoney
16.1 km
Discover The Mudhoney, a stylish cocktail bar in Copenhagen, blending coffee shop charm with expertly crafted cocktails for a perfect night out.
Berlin Bar
16.2 km
Experience the eclectic vibe and creative mixology at Berlin Bar, the perfect spot for memorable nights in Frederiksberg.
Ølbaren
16.3 km
Experience the heart of Copenhagen’s beer culture at Ølbaren, a cozy bar with an extensive selection of craft brews and vibrant atmosphere.
Gamble
16.3 km
An intimate Frederiksberg speakeasy where conversation, jazz and bespoke cocktails come together in a candlelit, retro-tinged corner of Copenhagen’s bar scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Den Dansende Viking
10.1 km
High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
14.3 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Falafelberg
15.1 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
SIGURD CPH
15.2 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.
Haven - Events
16.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Temple Bar
16.2 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
RUST Natklub
16.2 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Moon Club
16.8 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
Vela Lesbian Lgbtq+ NightClub
17.4 km
Experience the inclusive spirit and vibrant nightlife at Vela Lesbian LGBTQ+ Nightclub in Copenhagen, where every night is a celebration of love and diversity.
Mirage
17.4 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
17.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Den Anden Side
17.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Copenhagen at Den Anden Side, a techno haven for party lovers and night owls.
Never Mind
17.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Never Mind, where electrifying music meets an eclectic crowd for unforgettable nights.
Cosy Bar
17.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Socialz
17.5 km
Intimate cocktail bar and nightclub in the heart of Hillerød, blending shisha lounge vibes, late-night DJ sets and a compact dance floor on lively Slotsgade.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- 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
- Architectural Shots
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
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
