Vaserne Bird Reserve, Birkerød

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.

4.6

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Vaserne is a tranquil wetland and bird reserve on the edge of Birkerød, where reed beds, alder swamp forest and open meadows frame mirror-still lakes. Managed in partnership by nature foundations and the municipality, it protects a rich habitat with more than a thousand recorded species. Boardwalks, simple paths and bird hides bring you close to herons, ducks, warblers and deer, yet the reserve still feels quietly wild despite its suburban setting.

A brief summary to Vaserne

Vasestien 4, Birkerød, 3460, DK
+4533283839
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
Free
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

Wear waterproof or sturdy shoes; paths can be muddy and sections of boardwalk may be damp or slippery, especially after rain.
Bring binoculars and, if you have one, a small spotting scope to make the most of the birdlife on the lakes and reed beds.
Visit early in the morning or close to sunset for the most active birdlife and the softest, most atmospheric light.
In warmer months, pack insect repellent, as mosquitoes and midges are common around the wetlands and still water.
Stay on marked paths and boardwalks to protect the fragile wetland habitat and avoid disturbing nesting birds.

Getting There

Regional train and bus from Copenhagen

From central Copenhagen, take an S-train on the E-line towards Hillerød and get off at Birkerød Station; the journey typically takes 30–35 minutes. From the station, local buses towards the Bistrup area run roughly every 20–30 minutes in daytime and take about 10–15 minutes to reach stops within walking distance of Vaserne. Standard single tickets for the combined journey usually fall in the 40–60 DKK range depending on zones. Services are less frequent in the late evening and on some weekends, so check current timetables before you set out.
Bicycle from Birkerød and nearby suburbs

Cycling from Birkerød Station or surrounding residential areas is a practical and popular way to reach Vaserne. Expect 10–20 minutes of mostly gentle riding on local streets and designated cycle paths, with only modest inclines. Bring lights and reflective gear if returning after dusk, and be prepared for wet or muddy verges near the reserve after rain. There is no charge to bring your bike on most local routes, but if you combine cycling with regional trains, check current bicycle rules and any small supplement that may apply.
Car or taxi from Greater Copenhagen

Driving from the northern districts of Copenhagen to Birkerød typically takes 25–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Public parking is available near the reserve, including by Bistrup Renseanlæg, but spaces can be limited on fine weekends and during peak nature seasons. There is usually no parking fee at the smaller lots, though some time restrictions may apply in residential streets. A taxi from inner Copenhagen will often cost in the range of 350–600 DKK each way, varying with traffic and exact starting point.

Vaserne location weather suitability

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

Discover more about Vaserne

Wetlands Hidden Between Lake and Suburbs

Vaserne is a low-lying mosaic of reed marsh, small lakes, alder swamp forest and open meadowland sandwiched between Birkerød and the broad waters of nearby Sjælsø. Soft ground, slow water and dense vegetation create a classic Danish wetland landscape, where the ground seems to breathe underfoot and fallen trunks lie half-submerged in dark pools. Despite the proximity of houses and roads, the reserve feels surprisingly secluded, with long sightlines over the reeds and only occasional glimpses of rooftops beyond. The name Vaserne refers to the soggy, marshy character of the terrain, shaped over centuries by fluctuating water levels and grazing. Today the area is protected and managed to preserve its semi-wild feel: ditches are kept open just enough to prevent flooding of trails, while grazing and careful clearing stop the wetlands from turning into closed forest.

A Refuge for Birds and a Thousand Other Species

Vaserne is best known as a bird reserve, but it is really a complete wetland ecosystem in miniature. More than a thousand species have been recorded here, from orchids and liverworts in the swamp forest to dragonflies and amphibians in the ponds. In late spring and early summer, the reeds tremble with the song of warblers, while great crested grebes, tufted ducks and coots patrol the open water. In autumn, migrating ducks pause to feed and rest, and mixed flocks of tits and other small passerines thread through the willow scrub. Grey herons stand statuesque at the edges of channels, and with luck you might glimpse an owl at dusk or a hunting marsh harrier quartering low over the reeds. The reserve is actively managed by conservation foundations and local volunteers, who adjust water levels, maintain grazing regimes and improve nesting and feeding conditions for wetland birds.

Boardwalks, Bird Hides and Quiet Footpaths

The visitor experience at Vaserne is deliberately simple. A web of unsurfaced trails, old forest tracks and short stretches of boardwalk lead you through the dampest areas, where sphagnum moss and sedges crowd close to the planks. You can wander short loops near the edges of the reserve or link paths into a longer ramble along meadows and through dense alder carr. Strategically placed viewing platforms and small bird hides allow you to look out over open water without disturbing wildlife. Simple benches offer places to sit in silence, watch ripples move across the lakes and listen to the layered birdsong. Information boards explain the wetland’s history, management and key species, making it easy to understand what you are seeing without overwhelming the sense of immersion in nature.

Seasonal Transformations in Light and Sound

Vaserne changes character with the seasons. In spring the swamp forest floor is bright with new growth and the air rings with territorial calls and drumming. Summer brings dense greenery, humming insects and the soft slap of carp in shallower water. On still early mornings, mist hangs low over the reeds and amplifies the echo of bird calls. Autumn cloaks the alders and birches in warm colours, and flocks of ducks and geese mark the turning year as they move through the reserve. In winter, when frost stiffens the marsh and thin ice skins the ponds, the area becomes stark and quiet, its structure laid bare. Even then, you can often spot hardy resident birds and follow fox or deer tracks along the edges of the paths.

Conservation, Education and Everyday Escapes

Vaserne is jointly managed by nature foundations and the local municipality as both a sanctuary for wildlife and an open-air classroom. School groups come to learn about wetland ecology, volunteers lead occasional guided bird walks, and ongoing projects monitor species, restore habitats and adapt management to climate and water-level changes. For everyday visitors, the reserve offers an easy escape into something wilder than a city park but gentler than backcountry wilderness. You can bring binoculars and spend hours scanning for birds, take a slow contemplative stroll or simply sit quietly and let the wetland’s layered sounds replace the background noise of urban life. It is this combination of rich biodiversity, thoughtful protection and genuine sense of retreat that gives Vaserne its particular character.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Furesø

4.1 km

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

Hørsholm Slotshave

6.6 km

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

Bagsværd Kirke

7.2 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

7.2 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.

Henriksholm

7.7 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.

Grundtvig’s Church

13.4 km

A monumental brick cathedral of Nordic minimalism and light, Grundtvig’s Church fuses expressionist form with Gothic scale on a quiet Copenhagen hillside.

Hillerød St.

14.1 km

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

Hillerød Rectory

14.4 km

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

Old town hall

14.5 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

14.5 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.

Kildevældsparken

14.6 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

15.3 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.

Bananna Park

15.5 km

Eclectic urban park blending street art, climbing, and skate culture in the heart of Nørrebro—a vibrant hub for locals, families, and visitors year-round.

Kirppu Hillerød

15.6 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.

Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk

15.8 km

Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.

Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk

Unmissable attractions to see

Geels Skov

3.7 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.

Fiskebæk Naturskole

4.6 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.

Open Air Museum

4.8 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

5.3 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

5.3 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.

Klopstocks eg

5.4 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.

Elleskovstien

5.5 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.

Sophienholm

5.7 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.

Farum Lake

5.8 km

A tranquil woodland lake looped by a 10 km trail, rich in birdlife, legends and gentle outdoor adventures just northwest of Copenhagen.

Arboretum

6.0 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.

Lake Bagsværd

6.3 km

Long, tranquil lake on Copenhagen’s northern fringe, where everyday walks, picnics and wildlife share the shoreline with a world-class rowing course.

Mindebænk for Viggo Stuckenberg

6.3 km

A modest stone-framed bench in Sorgenfri Slotshave, offering a quiet, poetic pause where Viggo Stuckenberg once found inspiration amid royal parkland.

Lyngby Folkepark

6.8 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.

Baadfarten Boat Tour

6.8 km

Historic wooden boats, tranquil lakes and forested shores combine on this leisurely North Zealand cruise just outside Copenhagen.

Stendysser

6.9 km

Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the serene landscapes of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.

Essential places to dine

Søllerød Kro

3.4 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

9.0 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

9.2 km

Harbourfront steakhouse indulgence at Rungsted Havn, where prime cuts, a serious wine list and a broad terrace meet white sails and Øresund views.

Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS

11.4 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.

Latini Hjørnet

14.0 km

Casual corner pizzeria and burgerhouse in suburban Hillerød, serving hearty pizzas, pastas and fast‑food favourites for easy eat‑in or takeaway meals.

Cafe Station Pizza Bar

14.0 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.

Restaurant krydderiet

14.0 km

Seasonal Danish cooking with a subtle spiced twist, served in a warm, contemporary dining room inside Hotel Hillerød on Milnersvej.

You Sushi

14.0 km

Casual Japanese-inspired sushi spot by Hillerød station, blending open-kitchen theatrics, ad libitum feasts and easy takeaway for locals and visitors alike.

Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang

14.2 km

Contemporary Nordic dining in the heart of Hillerød, open daily for lunch and dinner.

Hong Kong Bistro & Grill

14.2 km

Unfussy Chinese‑Thai grill and wok spot in Hillerød serving hearty noodles, curries, steaks and spareribs in a simple, relaxed neighborhood setting.

Gourmet Sushi

14.3 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.

Duero

14.4 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

14.5 km

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

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

14.5 km

Authentic Thai flavors prepared by professional chefs in central Hillerød.

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

Torvet's Pizza & Kebab

14.5 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.

Cozy Danish design universe in central Hillerød, filled with affordable Nordic home décor, crafts, toys and stationery in a warm, maze-like interior.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Oddies Beach Bar

8.9 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.

Jernstangen

14.0 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

14.5 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

14.5 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

14.6 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

14.8 km

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

Gotland - Café & Vinbar

15.1 km

Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.

Kompasset Ølbar

15.4 km

Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.

Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer

15.6 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.

Bubbles Bar

15.8 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.

Tap10

15.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Østerbros Perle Pub

16.3 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.

Paloma Vermuteria

16.3 km

Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.

Skovbar

16.3 km

Small, punk-spirited and queer-friendly bar in Nørrebro with vegan drinks, inclusive vibes and intimate music nights at budget-friendly prices.

ØB

16.4 km

Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Socialz

14.9 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.

Afrobeat Palace Nightclub

15.0 km

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

SIGURD CPH

15.3 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

16.4 km

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

RUST Natklub

16.6 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

16.7 km

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

Den Dansende Viking

17.3 km

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

Haven - Events

17.6 km

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

Moon Club

17.6 km

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

Culture Box

17.8 km

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

Mirage

17.9 km

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

Arch

17.9 km

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

Cosy Bar

18.2 km

Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.

La Terraza

18.2 km

Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.

Mini Bar

18.2 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Vaserne with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Vaserne Bird Reserve, Birkerød

A brief summary to Vaserne

Local tips

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

Getting There

Regional train and bus from Copenhagen

Bicycle from Birkerød and nearby suburbs

Car or taxi from Greater Copenhagen

Vaserne location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Vaserne

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Vaserne

Wetlands Hidden Between Lake and Suburbs

A Refuge for Birds and a Thousand Other Species

Boardwalks, Bird Hides and Quiet Footpaths

Seasonal Transformations in Light and Sound

Conservation, Education and Everyday Escapes

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Furesø

Hørsholm Slotshave

Bagsværd Kirke

Lyngby Storcenter

Henriksholm

Grundtvig’s Church

Hillerød St.

Hillerød Rectory

Old town hall

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

Kildevældsparken

The Red Square

Bananna Park

Kirppu Hillerød

Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk

Unmissable attractions to see

Geels Skov

Fiskebæk Naturskole

Open Air Museum

The Open Air Museum

Sommer's Automobile Museum

Klopstocks eg

Elleskovstien

Sophienholm

Farum Lake

Arboretum

Lake Bagsværd

Mindebænk for Viggo Stuckenberg

Lyngby Folkepark

Baadfarten Boat Tour

Stendysser

Essential places to dine

Søllerød Kro

Bistro No. 22

MASH Rungsted Havn

Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS

Latini Hjørnet

Cafe Station Pizza Bar

Restaurant krydderiet

You Sushi

Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang

Hong Kong Bistro & Grill

Gourmet Sushi

Duero

Indian Spice

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

Torvet's Pizza & Kebab

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Late Morning Post Photographer

Mothers' Aid Op Shop

Rodes

Shoppen

Vinbutikken

Lumi Op Shop

GEjSER ApS

Normal

NEW YORKER

JeansStore

ONLY

Gine