Store Donse Dam

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

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Store Donse Dam

Tucked along the edge of the forest at Kokkedal in North Zealand, Store Donse Dam is a tranquil, man‑made lake framed by trees, reeds and soft Danish light. Once part of an old dam and mill system, today it is a peaceful escape for walkers, anglers, paddlers and anyone seeking a quiet pause close to Copenhagen. Simple shelters, a fire pit and forest trails make it an inviting spot for slow outdoor time in every season.

A brief summary to Store Donse Dam

Store Donse Dam, Kokkedal, 2980, DK
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

Wear waterproof or sturdy shoes; lakeside paths can be muddy and rooty, especially after rain or in autumn and winter.
If you plan to fish, check current local regulations in advance and bring any required permits for freshwater angling.
For shelter or campfire use, bring your own firewood and rubbish bags, and follow local guidelines on fire safety and leave-no-trace.
Pack layers: even on warm days the air by the lake can feel cooler and damper than in town, especially in the evening.
Consider combining your visit with a longer forest walk in Tokkekøb Hegn to make a half- or full-day nature escape.

Getting There

Train and walk from Kokkedal

From Copenhagen central area, take an S-train on the E-line towards Helsingør and get off at Kokkedal Station; the ride typically takes 30–40 minutes. From the station, allow around 30–45 minutes on foot through local streets and forest paths, mostly flat but with some uneven, rooty sections that may challenge wheelchairs and strollers in wet conditions. Standard single tickets on the S-train usually cost about 40–55 DKK depending on zones and discounts.
Regional bus and short forest approach

Regional buses serving the Kokkedal and Nivå area connect from nearby towns such as Hørsholm and Helsingør in roughly 15–30 minutes of travel time. Disembark at a stop near the forest edge south of Kokkedal and continue on foot for 15–25 minutes along signed or informal woodland tracks, which can be muddy after rain and are not ideal for narrow-wheel mobility aids. Bus fares in North Zealand are generally in the range of 24–36 DKK for shorter journeys, depending on zones and any travel cards.
Car from Greater Copenhagen

Driving from central Copenhagen to the Kokkedal area typically takes 30–45 minutes in normal traffic on main roads heading north through North Zealand. Parking is usually found at small forest car parks or lay-bys near Tokkekøb Hegn, from which you should expect a 10–20 minute walk on unpaved paths to reach the lakeshore. Parking in these rural spots is often free, but spaces are limited at busy times and larger vehicles may find turning space constrained.
Cycling from nearby coastal towns

For a low-impact option, cycle from nearby coastal towns such as Rungsted or Nivå, which are typically 20–40 minutes away by bike using local roads and cycle paths across relatively gentle terrain. The final approach follows minor roads and forest tracks, where surfaces vary from asphalt to compact gravel and dirt. There is no formal bike parking at the water’s edge, so bring a lock and be prepared to secure your bicycle to a post or tree in a way that does not block paths or damage vegetation.

Store Donse Dam location weather suitability

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

Discover more about Store Donse Dam

A quiet forest lake in North Zealand

Store Donse Dam is a calm, mirror-like lake set on the fringe of Tokkekøb Hegn near Kokkedal, in the gentle landscape of North Zealand. Encircled by mixed woodland, reed beds and low banks, it feels surprisingly secluded despite being within easy reach of urban life. The water is broad but intimate in scale, with views always anchored by trees and the soft curve of the shoreline. The atmosphere is distinctly Danish: understated, orderly and closely tied to everyday outdoor life. Locals wander past with dogs, runners use the paths as part of longer loops through the forest, and families come to poke at the water’s edge or feed ducks from a safe distance. The dam’s simple beauty lies in its quietness—there are no grand facilities or loud attractions here, just wind in the treetops and the occasional splash of a fish.

From working water to recreational refuge

Store Donse Dam is an impounded lake, historically formed by damming the nearby Donse stream to create a reliable water source. In the surrounding area, water power once supported small-scale industry, including a gunpowder works farther along the river. Those industrial traces have long since faded into the forest, but the shaped shoreline and controlled outflow hint at the dam’s utilitarian origins. Over time, as industry retreated, the area around the dam evolved into a space for leisure and nature. Forestry and conservation management have kept large parts of Tokkekøb Hegn forested, allowing the lake to become a small but important habitat for birds, insects and amphibians. Today, the combination of cultural history and quiet nature gives the place a layered character: you are standing at a water body that has worked for centuries, now repurposed for reflection and recreation.

Life on the water and along the banks

The lake itself invites gentle activities. On calm days you may see small canoes or kayaks gliding across the surface, keeping close to the reed fringes where coots and ducks dart between stems. Anglers are drawn by the prospect of freshwater species, casting from the bank or from modest inflatables when regulations permit. Everything happens at an unhurried pace, framed by birdsong and the hum of insects in summer. Along the shore, narrow paths connect informal access points to the water. The terrain is mostly flat but can be rooty and muddy after rain, which adds a sense of being in real nature rather than a manicured park. In spring, new leaves create a pale green canopy; by autumn, the trees reflect golden tones into the water, turning a short walk into a quiet seasonal spectacle. Benches, logs and rocks serve as impromptu resting spots where you can simply watch the play of light on the water.

Shelters, campfires and simple overnights

On one side of Store Donse Dam, a basic shelter area offers a classic Danish outdoor experience. A wooden lean-to shelter sleeps a small group, and nearby you will find a designated fire pit with grill and a sturdy table-bench set. The setup is intentionally minimal: there is no power, no elaborate playground, and facilities for waste are limited, so visitors are expected to bring bags and carry out their rubbish. These simple features make the dam a favourite base for scouts, school groups and families who want a low-key night outdoors. Even if you are not staying overnight, the shelter area provides a focus point for picnics and longer breaks on a day walk. The combination of forest backdrop and water view gives the place a camp-like feel, especially at dusk when the forest darkens and the last light lingers over the lake.

Forest trails and a soft kind of adventure

Store Donse Dam is also a waypoint on longer walking and running routes through Tokkekøb Hegn. Waymarked exercise loops and informal paths weave between spruce, beech and pine, sometimes bringing you right back to the water, other times climbing gently to drier ground. The dam works well as a midpoint pause: you can cool down by the lake, stretch on a bench and watch the forest life before heading on. For children, the area’s appeal lies in its manageable scale and sense of discovery. There are sticks to turn into boats, stones to skim and mossy stumps that become stages for imaginary games. For adults, it is a place to decompress—somewhere to breathe, think and feel a faint sense of adventure without leaving the comforts of North Zealand behind.

Seasons, light and the mood of the lake

Store Donse Dam changes character with the seasons. In summer, foliage encloses the water, insects buzz over the surface and evenings are long and soft. Autumn brings colour and mist, when low fog hangs over the lake and footsteps are muffled by fallen leaves. Winter can be starkly beautiful, with bare branches reflected in steel-grey water and, in colder spells, thin ice forming along the edges. Spring feels like a reawakening as birds return in force and the first wildflowers appear along the paths. Whatever the time of year, the mood remains calm rather than dramatic. This is not wild wilderness, but a gentle, accessible slice of Danish nature—a place to slow down for an hour or two, to listen more than you speak, and to let a small, quiet lake leave a lasting impression.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Hørsholm Slotshave

6.5 km

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

Hillerød St.

6.9 km

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

Hillerød Rectory

7.2 km

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

Old town hall

7.3 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

7.4 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.

Kirppu Hillerød

8.6 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.

Country Market

9.4 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.

Henriksholm

10.4 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

11.2 km

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

Kulsvierstenen

12.0 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.

Lyngby Folkepark

14.8 km

Discover Lyngby Folkepark: A scenic lakeside escape offering tranquility and recreation in the heart of Lyngby-Taarbæk, perfect for picnics, walks, and enjoying nature's beauty.

LegeJunglen

15.0 km

Discover LegeJunglen in Slangerup: An indoor playground paradise with slides, trampolines, and jungle-themed fun for kids of all ages, ensuring a memorable family day out, rain or shine.

Bagsværd Kirke

15.0 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.

Templet

15.1 km

Experience live music in an intimate setting at Templet in Kongens Lyngby, a vibrant venue showcasing diverse genres and supporting local and established artists.

Lyngby Storcenter

15.1 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.

Unmissable attractions to see

Kongedyssen

1.3 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.

Store Dyrehave

3.5 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

3.5 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.

Elleskovstien

4.6 km

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.

Parforcejagtlandskabet i Store Dyrehave UNESCO World Heritage

5.2 km

A royal forest where straight, star-shaped hunting roads, old stone walls and quiet woodland trails reveal how Danish kings once turned nature into a stage for power.

Parforcejagtlandskabet i Store Dyrehave UNESCO World Heritage

Lille Hestehave

5.7 km

A small, low-key forest on Hillerød’s edge, Lille Hestehave offers quiet trails, damp woodland and a glimpse of North Zealand’s wilder side away from the castle crowds.

Usserød Å

5.8 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.

Stendysse

6.0 km

A small, atmospheric Stone Age burial site on the edge of Hillerød, offering a quiet, contemplative glimpse into Denmark’s prehistoric landscape.

Island of imagination

6.1 km

A tiny forest island on Breddam Lake where a king’s romantic retreat has crumbled into suggestive ruins, inviting you to complete the fairy tale with your own imagination.

AdventurePark

6.2 km

80,000 m² of outdoor action in Hillerød’s forests, blending paintball, obstacle courses and group games with relaxed grill areas and flexible event packages.

Arboretum

6.8 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.

Royal Stage

7.1 km

North Zealand's premier multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports, and cultural events for up to 2,000 guests.

Hillerød Church

7.2 km

A light-filled modern parish church in the heart of Hillerød, carrying centuries of local worship history in a calm, contemporary Danish setting.

Genforeningssten i Hillerød

7.3 km

Experience intimate encounters with rescued animals in the serene Japanese gardens of Monkey World Hillerød.

Gavlkunst

7.3 km

A string of vivid murals along Helsingørsgade that turns central Hillerød into a small, free open‑air gallery of local stories and color.

Cozy Indian restaurant on Hillerød’s main square, serving classic curries, tandoori dishes and vegetarian options in a warm, homely atmosphere.

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

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Jernstangen

6.9 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

7.3 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

7.3 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

7.4 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

7.7 km

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

Oddies Beach Bar

9.0 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.

Kardusen

17.4 km

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

12`er Pubben

19.7 km

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

Gefion Bodega

19.8 km

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

Head/Foam

19.9 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.

Helsingør Musikteater

20.1 km

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

Strandborg

20.2 km

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

Banana joe

20.3 km

Compact late-night bar above Helsingør’s nightlife strip, serving straightforward drinks, warm lighting and a relaxed local vibe long after the streets quieten.

Pitten Sport Bar

20.3 km

Straightforward sports, cold beer and local Helsingør character in a relaxed neighbourhood bar just a short stroll from the harbour and historic centre.

Axelhus

20.3 km

Casual bodega and burger bar in Helsingør's old town, open late on weekends with beer and Danish comfort food.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Socialz

7.7 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.

Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub

16.9 km

Intimate neighborhood nightclub in Helsingør with loud music, simple drinks, and a playful local vibe behind an unassuming facade on Rødegårdsvej.

Den Dansende Viking

19.4 km

High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.

Rustik

19.9 km

Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.

Retro

20.3 km

High-energy weekend nightclub in central Helsingør, mixing big-room beats, bright lights and a young crowd in what calls itself the largest club north of Copenhagen.

Afrobeat Palace Nightclub

23.1 km

Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

SIGURD CPH

23.3 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.

Falafelberg

24.5 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.

RUST Natklub

24.6 km

Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.

Temple Bar

24.7 km

Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.

Moon Club

25.6 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.

Haven - Events

25.6 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

Culture Box

25.8 km

Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.

Mirage

25.9 km

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.

Arch

25.9 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

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Store Donse Dam

A brief summary to Store Donse Dam

Local tips

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

Getting There

Train and walk from Kokkedal

Regional bus and short forest approach

Car from Greater Copenhagen

Cycling from nearby coastal towns

Store Donse Dam location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Store Donse Dam

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Store Donse Dam

A quiet forest lake in North Zealand

From working water to recreational refuge

Life on the water and along the banks

Shelters, campfires and simple overnights

Forest trails and a soft kind of adventure

Seasons, light and the mood of the lake

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Hørsholm Slotshave

Hillerød St.

Hillerød Rectory

Old town hall

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

Kirppu Hillerød

Country Market

Henriksholm

Furesø

Kulsvierstenen

Lyngby Folkepark

LegeJunglen

Bagsværd Kirke

Templet

Lyngby Storcenter

Unmissable attractions to see

Kongedyssen

Store Dyrehave

Kongestjernen i Store Dyrehave

Elleskovstien

Parforcejagtlandskabet i Store Dyrehave UNESCO World Heritage

Lille Hestehave

Usserød Å

Stendysse

Island of imagination

AdventurePark

Arboretum

Royal Stage

Hillerød Church

Genforeningssten i Hillerød

Gavlkunst

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS

Latini Hjørnet

Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang

Hong Kong Bistro & Grill

Cafe Station Pizza Bar

You Sushi

Gourmet Sushi

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

Restaurant krydderiet

Tô Tô Kitchen

Duero

Patats Kebab & Grill

Piccola Italia Pizzaria 3400

Unkai

Indian Spice

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lumi Op Shop

Shoppen

Mothers' Aid Op Shop

Rodes

Vinbutikken

GEjSER ApS

Normal

NEW YORKER

JeansStore

Gine