The Bastrup Tower (Bastrup Stenhus)
A massive 12th-century stone tower rising above Bastrup Lake, blending medieval military power, quiet countryside and evocative ruin in rural North Zealand.
Rising above fields and forest at the edge of Bastrup Lake in North Zealand, the Bastrup Tower is one of Denmark’s most powerful medieval fortification ruins. Built around 1100, this massive round donjon once formed the core of a stone stronghold with walls up to 6 m thick and a diameter of about 21 m, thought to be among the largest of its kind in Europe. Today, the roofless stone shell, grassy ramparts and lakeside setting create an atmospheric, easily accessible stop for history-minded walkers and nature lovers.
A brief summary to The Bastrup Tower
- Stengårdsvej 4, Lynge, 3540, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Combine the tower with a walk along Bastrup Lake; a full circuit on marked paths can turn a short stop into a scenic 1.5–2 hour outing.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the ground around the ruin and near the lakeshore can be uneven, muddy or slippery after rain.
- Allow time to read the on-site information panels; they help make sense of the unusual thickness of the walls and the theory of a “lonely” tower.
- Bring water and snacks, especially outside summer weekends, as there are no cafés or shops immediately at the site.
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for softer light on the stonework and more atmospheric views across the lake.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public transport from Copenhagen via Allerød
From central Copenhagen, take an S-train on line E or A to Allerød Station, typically 35–40 minutes. From Allerød, use a regional bus towards Lynge (for example routes serving Stengårdsvej or the Lynge area); the bus ride usually takes 15–25 minutes and costs roughly 25–35 DKK one way depending on zones and ticket type. Services run regularly during the day but can be less frequent evenings and weekends, so check schedules in advance. From the nearest bus stop, expect a country walk on paved and gravel roads of 1–3 km through gently undulating terrain; the route is level enough for most walkers but less convenient for wheelchairs.
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Driving from Greater Copenhagen
By car, the Bastrup Tower is an easy outing from most of Greater Copenhagen, typically 35–50 minutes depending on traffic. Head towards North Zealand and follow regional roads in the direction of Lynge and Bastrup Lake; the last stretch runs along narrow rural roads. There is free, informal parking close to the ruin on unpaved or gravel surfaces. Spaces can be limited on sunny weekends, and the ground may be soft after prolonged rain, so drive slowly and park considerately. No entrance fee is charged at the site.
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Cycling from nearby towns
Strong cyclists can reach Bastrup Tower by bike from nearby North Zealand towns such as Allerød, Farum or Birkerød in roughly 30–60 minutes, using a mix of minor roads and local cycle paths. The landscape is gently hilly, with occasional short climbs but no extreme gradients. This makes the tower a pleasant stop on a longer countryside loop. There are no dedicated bike racks at the ruin, so bring a lock and be prepared to secure your bicycle to a fence or lay it in the grass where it will not obstruct others.
The Bastrup Tower 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 The Bastrup Tower
A solitary medieval giant in the countryside
The Bastrup Tower, or Bastrup Stenhus, stands just north of Bastrup Lake in the gently rolling landscape south of Lynge in Central North Zealand. At first sight, the structure looks almost oversized for its rural setting: a huge circular ring of rough-hewn fieldstone rising from low grassy banks. Built around 1100, it is widely regarded as one of the strongest medieval towers in Denmark, a rare example of an early stone castle in a country that otherwise relied heavily on earth-and-timber fortifications. The tower’s basic statistics are striking. With walls around 6 m thick and an overall diameter of about 21 m, it ranks among the largest round donjons in Europe from its era. Even in ruin, the sheer mass of stone gives an immediate feel for how formidable it must have appeared to people in the Middle Ages, dominating the surrounding farms, forests and the narrow lake valley below.From noble power base to forgotten ruin
The exact origins of Bastrup Tower remain partly enigmatic, adding a layer of intrigue to any visit. It was almost certainly built as a high-status private stronghold, probably linked to powerful local landowners during Denmark’s turbulent 12th century, when feuds, rival kings and shifting alliances shaped the political landscape. Some historians have connected the site to prominent noble families of the time, though no written source describes the tower in detail while it was in active use. Archaeological work in the 20th century uncovered traces of a rampart system around the tower, confirming that it once formed the heart of a small castle complex with defensive earthworks. However, excavations revealed surprisingly few remains of additional stone buildings or paved courtyards. This has led to the intriguing idea that Bastrup may have been a "lonely tower"—a massively built refuge and symbol of authority rather than a fully developed castle with extensive outbuildings.Architecture carved from boulders and lime
Standing close to the wall, you can see how the tower’s construction reflects both ambition and practicality. The outer face is built from large rounded fieldstones gathered from the local landscape, carefully laid in courses and bound with lime mortar. Inside, the wall core would once have been filled with smaller stones and rubble, creating a solid defensive shell. The thickness of the masonry hints at several internal floors, with wooden beams and staircases now long gone. Openings in the ruin, some original and some caused by collapse, give glimpses of where doorways or windows might have been. It is easy to imagine a dim entrance level used for storage and defense, with living quarters higher up, safely above the reach of attackers. At the same time, the design would have allowed residents to survey the surrounding farmland and control movement along the lake and nearby routes through the countryside.Lakeside setting and forest paths
Part of Bastrup Tower’s appeal today lies in its setting as much as its masonry. Just a short stroll from the lakeshore, the ruin sits on slightly raised ground, ringed by pasture, woodland edges and the quiet waters of Bastrup Lake below. The broader Central Nordsjælland area is a patchwork of small towns, forests and agricultural land, and the western part around Lynge retains a distinctly rural character. This landscape invites slow exploration. Paths lead from the ruin down towards the lake and into surrounding fields and woods, making it a natural stop on a longer walk. The nearby Mølleå river system, which begins around Bastrup Lake and continues east through a chain of lakes and mills, has been important to Danish history since the Middle Ages and reinforces the impression that this was once a strategically chosen spot.Visiting the ruin today
Bastrup Tower is freely accessible at all hours, with no entrance fee or gate. Low grassy banks and open ground around the structure make it easy to walk around the entire circumference and study the stonework from different angles. Information panels on site provide concise background in Danish and often also English, outlining the tower’s history, its dating to around 1100 and the main archaeological findings. There is typically simple parking close to the ruin, and the location combines well with a walk along Bastrup Lake or a wider day out in North Zealand’s forests and lakes. Mobile reception is generally good, but the area still feels pleasantly quiet and slightly off the beaten path. Rather than a long, structured visit, this is a place for an unhurried hour: circling the walls, reading the signs, looking out over the water and letting the imagination fill in wooden floors, banners and armed retainers where only stone and grass remain.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Furesø
9.3 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Hillerød St.
12.3 km
North Zealand's essential transport hub connecting Copenhagen, regional destinations, and Frederiksborg Castle.
Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød
12.4 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.
Hillerød Rectory
12.4 km
Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.
Old town hall
12.4 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.
Bagsværd Kirke
12.5 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.
Kirppu Hillerød
12.7 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.
Lyngby Storcenter
15.5 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
15.7 km
A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.
Henriksholm
18.2 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.
The Hermitage Hunting Lodge
18.9 km
Royal hunting lodge with panoramic views, accessible only by guided tour through a UNESCO heritage landscape.
Jægerspris Castle
19.0 km
Discover Danish history and royal romance at Jægerspris Castle, a beautifully preserved estate with a captivating museum and scenic parklands, offering a glimpse into the lives of King Frederik VII and Countess Danner.
Country Market
19.4 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.
Thomas on the Mountain, The 6 Forgotten Giants
19.6 km
A welcoming wooden giant inviting you to sit, relax, and share the view from atop an Albertslund hilltop.
Masterhøj udsigtspost
19.7 km
Bronze Age mound commanding 360-degree views of Roskilde, fjord, and medieval heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Drive in Put and Take
2.2 km
Spacious put & take lakes in a reclaimed gravel pit near Copenhagen, pairing clear water and easy access with relaxed, family-friendly trout fishing.
Farum Lake
5.9 km
A tranquil woodland lake looped by a 10 km trail, rich in birdlife, legends and gentle outdoor adventures just northwest of Copenhagen.
LegeJunglen
6.4 km
Denmark's largest indoor jungle playground with free adult entry and family-friendly pricing.
Søndersø
6.8 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.
Fiskebæk Naturskole
7.4 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.
Ølstykke bypark - Bebyggelsen Søhøj Park ligger nord for byparken, fjern ALT med Søhøj også naturlegeplasen
7.9 km
A spacious, low‑key green park in Ølstykke where open lawns, gentle slopes and trees offer a quiet everyday escape for walks, play and simple outdoor pauses.
Stendysse
8.1 km
A small, atmospheric Stone Age burial site on the edge of Hillerød, offering a quiet, contemplative glimpse into Denmark’s prehistoric landscape.
Favrholm bird watching tower
10.1 km
A simple wooden tower on Hillerød’s edge, Favrholm offers wide wetland views, migrating birdlife and a quiet nature pause amid fields, ponds and big Danish skies.
AdventurePark
10.8 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.
Vaserne
10.9 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.
Kongedyssen
10.9 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.
Lille Hestehave
11.0 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.
Royal Stage
11.5 km
North Zealand's premier multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports, and cultural events for up to 2,000 guests.
Stendysser
11.6 km
Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the serene landscapes of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.
Kongestjernen i Store Dyrehave
11.7 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.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS
10.0 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
11.4 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
12.2 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.
Café Kaiser
12.2 km
Relaxed all‑day Danish café inside Hillerød’s Slotsarkaderne, serving hearty brunch, smørrebrød, burgers and drinks in a warm, mall‑side setting.
You Sushi
12.2 km
Casual Japanese-inspired sushi spot by Hillerød station, blending open-kitchen theatrics, ad libitum feasts and easy takeaway for locals and visitors alike.
9-Ni Sushi
12.2 km
Casual running sushi and Chinese buffet on Slangerupgade, serving easygoing, all-you-can-eat comfort with a minimalist, family-friendly feel in central Hillerød.
Gourmet Sushi
12.3 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.
Frederiksborgcentret's Restauranter ApS
12.3 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Frederiksborgcentret's Restauranter ApS in Hillerød.
Saltos Køkken
12.3 km
Bright, family-first café in Hillerød offering simple, wholesome food, baby-friendly facilities and a relaxed daytime refuge for parents with little ones.
Restaurant Teddy /by Bjørn
12.3 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.
Sushi Mura
12.3 km
Handcrafted Japanese sushi with fresh seafood and creative flair in modern Hillerød.
Torvet's Pizza & Kebab
12.3 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.
Duero
12.4 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.
Indian Spice
12.4 km
Cozy Indian restaurant on Hillerød’s main square, serving classic curries, tandoori dishes and vegetarian options in a warm, homely atmosphere.
Samurai sushi
12.4 km
Contemporary sushi excellence in the heart of Hillerød's central square.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Plantorama Hillerød
12.0 km
A 10,000 m² green universe in Hillerød, where plants, pets, home décor and a cosy café turn a simple shopping trip into a relaxed family outing.
ØnskeBørn
12.2 km
Practical one-stop children’s and baby store in central Hillerød, stocking prams, gear, clothing, toys and nursery essentials for young families and parents-to-be.
ONLY
12.3 km
Scandi high-street fashion and denim-focused style for women, conveniently located inside Hillerød’s Slotsarkaderne shopping centre.
JACK & JONES
12.3 km
Easygoing menswear and denim inside Hillerød’s main shopping centre, combining Scandinavian style, everyday essentials and smart-casual looks under one roof.
NORMAL
12.3 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.
Rituals
12.3 km
Luxury beauty rituals and wellness products in Hillerød's premier shopping destination.
SlotsArkaderne
12.3 km
North Zealand's premier shopping destination where modern retail meets royal heritage in the heart of historic Hillerød.
Pilgrim Hillerød Slotsarkaderne
12.3 km
Handcrafted Danish jewellery celebrating personal style, quality, and Scandinavian design.
Glitter
12.3 km
Bright, trend-focused jewelry and accessories shop in Hillerød’s SlotsArkaderne mall, ideal for quick gifts, style updates and affordable everyday sparkle.
VERO MODA
12.3 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
12.3 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.
Rodes
12.3 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.
Designersmarket
12.4 km
A stylish women’s fashion boutique inside Hillerød’s SlotsArkaderne, blending Scandinavian-inspired looks, wardrobe staples and accessories in a relaxed mall setting.
NEW YORKER
12.4 km
Contemporary fashion trends and accessible style in Hillerød's shopping heart.
Mothers' Aid Op Shop
12.4 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jernstangen
12.2 km
Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.
Tahonga Lounge
12.4 km
Intimate tiki-style lounge bar off Hillerød’s central square, blending cocktails, small-stage events and private parties in a cozy tropical hideaway.
Crane Brothers
12.4 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.
The Old Irish Pub
12.4 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
12.5 km
A welcoming Danish bodega in Hillerød's heart, where locals gather for drinks, snacks, and authentic social connection.
Oddies Beach Bar
18.5 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.
RUCbar - café & bar
20.5 km
Student-run café-bar at Roskilde University’s Student House, serving affordable drinks and coffee in a relaxed campus hangout from lunchtime into the evening.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
21.8 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
22.2 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
22.3 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
22.4 km
Discover the heart of Nørrebro at Klovnens Bodega, a cozy pub offering a delightful atmosphere and a taste of local culture.
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
22.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar - Frederiksberg
22.5 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
22.6 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
Kompasset Ølbar
22.6 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- 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
