Vestskoven
Denmark's largest new forest: a 1,400-hectare woodland escape with Viking heritage, artificial hills, and historic landmarks.
Vestskoven, Denmark's largest new forest, sprawls across 1,400 hectares in the western suburbs of Copenhagen. Established in the late 1960s to serve the rapidly growing population, this 13 km² woodland features artificial hills, lakes, boglands, and recreational trails. Visitors discover historic landmarks including 12th-century Herstedøster Church, a Viking village reconstruction, the massive Hvissinge Stone glacial erratic, and Kroppedal museum dedicated to astronomer Ole Rømer. The forest offers marked walking routes, dog parks, cattle-grazed meadows, and peaceful natural escapes within easy reach of the capital.
A brief summary to Vestskoven
- Herstedvestervej, Albertslund, 2620, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 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
- Visit Kroppedal museum to learn about astronomer Ole Rømer and explore exhibitions on local history and astronomy in a converted historic building.
- Climb Herstedhøje hill for panoramic views across the forest and surrounding countryside from its 67-metre summit.
- Seek out the Hvissinge Stone, one of Europe's largest glacial erratics, weighing 250,000 kilograms and dating from the ice age.
- Explore the Viking village reconstruction at Store Vejleådal to experience how people lived over a thousand years ago.
- Use marked trails like the yellow route for structured walks; the forest offers routes suitable for various fitness levels and accessibility needs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
- Drinking Water
Getting There
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Regional Train
Take the S-train (S-banen) line A or E toward Albertslund station, approximately 20–30 minutes from central Copenhagen. From Albertslund station, local bus routes 128 or 129 connect directly to Vestskoven's main entrance near Herstedvestervej, with a journey time of 10–15 minutes. Trains run every 10–20 minutes during peak hours and every 20–30 minutes off-peak. Single ticket costs approximately 36–54 DKK depending on zones.
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Bus from Copenhagen
Direct bus routes from central Copenhagen (including routes 128, 129, and 130) serve Vestskoven with journey times of 35–50 minutes depending on starting point and traffic. Buses operate throughout the day with frequencies varying from 10–30 minutes. A single ticket costs approximately 24–36 DKK. This option is convenient for visitors without access to a car.
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Car
Drive via the E20 motorway toward Albertslund, exiting toward Herstedvestervej. The journey from central Copenhagen takes 25–40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Multiple parking areas are available near forest entrances, including spaces near Herstedvestervej and other access points. Parking is typically free or low-cost. Note that some internal forest roads are restricted to authorized vehicles.
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Bicycle
Copenhagen's extensive cycle network connects to Vestskoven via dedicated bike paths. The journey from central Copenhagen takes 45–60 minutes depending on route and starting point. Several bike parking facilities are available at main forest entrances. This option is popular among local residents and offers flexibility for exploring the forest at leisure.
Vestskoven location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Vestskoven
A Modern Forest Born from Urban Planning
Vestskoven emerged in the late 1960s as a visionary response to Copenhagen's explosive suburban growth. Designed according to the Finger Plan—a strategic framework for the capital's expansion—the forest was created to provide accessible recreational space for residents of the western suburbs. What began as bare land was systematically landscaped with artificial hills and lakes, with the first trees planted in 1967. Today, this 1,400-hectare woodland represents Denmark's largest new forest, stretching eight kilometers in length and four kilometers at its widest point from north to south. The forest's deliberate construction means its topography tells a story of human design meeting natural restoration.Sculpted Landscapes and Natural Features
The forest's most distinctive landmarks are its artificial hills, created during the initial landscaping phase. Herstedhøje, located just north of Herstedøster in Albertslund Municipality, rises to 67 metres—towering 30 to 35 metres above the surrounding countryside and offering commanding views across the region. Oxbjerget, situated in the easternmost part of the forest near Hvissinge, reaches 35 metres and rises approximately 15 metres above the terrain. Beyond the hills, Vestskoven contains two significant boglands: Harrestrup Mose on the forest's north side, where the stream Harrestrup Å originates, and Porsemosen in the western reaches. Store Vejleådal, the westernmost section, remains actively grazed by cattle, maintaining traditional pastoral character. The forest also encompasses two lakes and numerous water features that support diverse ecosystems.Historical and Cultural Landmarks
Vestskoven preserves and celebrates centuries of Danish heritage. Two villages—Herstedøster and Risby—sit within the forest's boundaries. Herstedøster Church, dating from the 12th century, showcases Late Gothic architecture added in the 15th century, making it a tangible link to medieval Denmark. Risby has earned recognition as a film production hub. In the western section, Kroppedal at Vridsløsemagle was converted into a local history museum by Albertslund Municipality in 2002, featuring permanent exhibitions about the 17th-century astronomer Ole Rømer and rotating displays on astronomy and regional history. Rømer once operated an astronomical observatory nearby called Observatorium Tusculanum, now demolished, though a bronze statue by Ludvig Brandstrup commemorates the site. A reconstruction of a Viking village at Store Vejleådal includes a communal building, residential structures, and a pig stable, with plans underway for a reconstructed Viking road and bridge.Natural Wonders and Geological Significance
The Hvissinge Stone stands as one of Denmark's most remarkable geological features—a glacial erratic measuring 5 by 6 by 3.5 metres and weighing 250,000 kilograms, making it the largest stone on the island of Zealand. This ancient granite boulder, deposited by retreating ice age glaciers, serves as a tangible connection to the region's prehistoric past. The forest's diverse habitats support varied wildlife and plant communities, from wetland species in the boglands to woodland flora on the hillsides.Recreation and Accessibility
Vestskoven functions as a working recreational forest for the greater Copenhagen region. Marked walking routes crisscross the woodland, including the yellow-marked trail spanning 4.6 to 4.8 kilometres with a maximum gradient of 6.7 percent. A designated off-leash dog area near Oxbjerget allows canine companions freedom to roam. The forest's infrastructure supports diverse activities from casual strolling to more ambitious hiking, with trails suitable for various fitness levels. Access points and parking areas facilitate visits from surrounding communities, making the forest an integral part of Copenhagen's green infrastructure.Conservation and Future Development
As a state forest managed by Naturstyrelsen (the Danish Nature Agency), Vestskoven operates under strict environmental stewardship. The forest continues to evolve, balancing recreational use with ecological protection. Current development includes infrastructure projects designed to minimize impact on existing users and natural systems. Ongoing monitoring of groundwater levels and stream conditions ensures that forest ecosystems remain healthy and resilient. The commitment to preserving Vestskoven's character while accommodating modern needs reflects Denmark's broader approach to sustainable land management.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bagsværd Kirke
11.0 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.
Frederiksbergmuseerne
11.7 km
Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.
Møstings Hus
11.7 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
CWGC Krigsgrave, CWGC Graves
11.8 km
Scandinavia's largest cemetery: a 54-hectare landscape of history, architecture, and remembrance in Copenhagen.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
11.9 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.
Storm P. Museum
12.0 km
Delve into the world of Danish humor and satirical art at the Storm P. Museum, where whimsical cartoons, eccentric inventions, and cultural history come alive in Frederiksberg.
Elefantporten
12.1 km
Four monumental granite elephants carry a historic brewery tower on their backs, blending whimsy, symbolism and industrial heritage in the heart of Carlsberg Byen.
Grundtvig’s Church
12.7 km
A monumental brick cathedral of Nordic minimalism and light, Grundtvig’s Church fuses expressionist form with Gothic scale on a quiet Copenhagen hillside.
Enghaveparken
12.7 km
Historic art deco park with rose gardens, community events, family-friendly spaces, and a vibrant local atmosphere at the heart of Vesterbro, Copenhagen.
The Red Square
12.8 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.
Nørrebrogade
13.1 km
Copenhagen's creative heartbeat: independent design, multicultural energy, and authentic Nordic cool.
Assistens Cemetery
13.1 km
Historic, leafy burial ground in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, home to Hans Christian Andersen’s grave and tranquil paths where Danish history and urban life intertwine.
Bananna Park
13.2 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.
Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk
13.2 km
Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.
Furesø
13.3 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vikingelandsbyen
1.5 km
A hands-on Viking Age village above the Store Vejleå valley, where reconstructed halls, workshops and fields bring everyday Norse life vividly back to Albertslund.
Herstedhøje
1.6 km
Grassy hilltops above Vestskoven with wide horizons, easy trails and a breezy sense of escape on the western edge of greater Copenhagen.
Thomas on the Mountain, The 6 Forgotten Giants
3.9 km
Explore authentic Viking ships and maritime heritage at Roskilde's Viking Ship Museum.
Little Tilde by Thomas Dambo - Troll #16
4.3 km
A recycled-wood troll with a heart for birds, Little Tilde watches over Vallensbæk Mose and invites you into a gentle treasure hunt through Copenhagen’s wild marshland.
Tysmosen Naturist Camping FKK
4.8 km
Leafy naturist campground near Copenhagen with free-clothing ethos, seasonal pool, grassy pitches and a calm, community feel amid fields and trees.
Friendly Teddy by Thomas Dambo nr. 14.
5.2 km
A towering scrap-wood teddy bear offering a helping hand across a stream, Friendly Teddy turns a quiet Taastrup lakeside into a playful fairytale escape.
Sleeping Louis by Thomas Dambo - Troll #12
5.7 km
A giant wooden troll naps on a forested hill in Rødovre, inviting you to crawl through his mouth, play among recycled planks and discover art hidden in suburban nature.
Ishøj Dyrepark
6.5 km
Free, family-friendly animal park and green oasis in Ishøj, where Highland cattle, goats and history share meadows, playgrounds and easy walking paths.
ARKEN Museum of Contemporary Art
8.9 km
Denmark’s premier art museum, SMK, showcases centuries of Danish and European masterpieces in an inspiring setting beside Copenhagen’s city-center park.
Søndersø
10.5 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.
Stendysser
10.8 km
Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the serene landscapes of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.
Copenhagen Zoo
11.5 km
Historic canal in Indre By weaving past royal palaces, stately bridges, and cultural icons—offering tranquil walks and quintessential Copenhagen views.
Cisterns in Søndermarken
11.6 km
Discover Danish celebrity history and culture under the trees of Frederiksberg Allé, where handprints and names honor the stars of Denmark’s stage and screen.
Søndermarken
11.6 km
Former royal hunting grounds turned semi-wild city park, Søndermarken blends forested paths, meadows and an underground art world beneath Frederiksberg’s leafy streets.
Frederiksberg Gardens
11.6 km
Royal waterways, baroque palaces, and pacifier traditions in Copenhagen's most romantic green escape.
Essential places to dine
Cafe 33
10.2 km
Explore the rich heritage of vodka at Cafe 33's unique Vodka Museum in Vanløse.
Café Lindevang
10.8 km
A beloved Frederiksberg institution, Café Lindevang serves up hearty Danish classics and authentic smørrebrød in cozy, vintage surroundings steeped in local charm.
Restaurant Frederiks Have
11.5 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.
Hansens Gamle Familiehave
12.0 km
Hansens Gamle Familiehave—a historic Frederiksberg garden restaurant famed for classic Danish cuisine, family-friendly charm, and over 170 years of tradition in scenic surroundings.
Enomania
12.0 km
Intimate Italian restaurant in Frederiksberg celebrated for expertly paired wine menus, exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, and an atmospheric, welcoming dining experience.
Ewalds Brasserie
12.1 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.
Frederik the VI
12.7 km
Discover culinary delights at Frederik the VI - a vibrant restaurant and pub serving authentic Danish cuisine in Frederiksberg C.
Restaurant Polly København
12.9 km
A modern Nordic brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, blending Danish produce, creative cuisine, and relaxed elegance for a memorable city dining experience.
JATAK
13.0 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.
Street Food 108
13.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Street Food 108 in Copenhagen's vibrant Nørrebro district - a delightful taste adventure awaits!
Bevi Bevi
13.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Bevi Bevi, a charming restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen.
Folkehuset Absalon
13.2 km
A colourful former church on Sønder Boulevard turned all-day community house, where café, canteen, bar and cultural venue come together under one sociable roof.
Restaurant Spuntino
13.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Spuntino in Copenhagen - where flavors meet ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Gaarden & Gaden
13.3 km
Discover Gaarden & Gaden, a stylishly laid-back bistro in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, serving inventive local cuisine and natural wines in a warm, communal setting.
Madklubben Vesterbro
13.3 km
A buzzing, design-forward restaurant in the heart of Vesterbro, known for great value fixed-price menus and a welcoming slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Copenhagen Designer Outlet
5.7 km
Denmark’s largest outlet mall, pairing Scandinavian design with year-round discounts and easy comfort beside the City2 shopping centre in Taastrup.
Rødovre Centrum
7.2 km
Denmark’s original modern shopping mall, blending big‑name stores, cinema and family‑friendly leisure in a spacious all‑weather hub west of central Copenhagen.
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
11.3 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.
Frederiksberg Centret
12.0 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.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
12.7 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.
The Late Morning Post Photographer
13.0 km
Fine art wedding and family photography studio capturing authentic moments with artistic vision and warmth.
Artikel København
13.3 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
13.3 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.
Funky Junky
13.4 km
Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.
PRAG Nørrebro
13.6 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
McKorman
13.8 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
Butik Bungalow
13.9 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
13.9 km
A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.
Souvenir Gift Shop
14.0 km
Compact, central and colourful, this Vesterbrogade gift shop is a quick and easy stop for Copenhagen-themed souvenirs between Tivoli, Vesterbro and the Central Station.
Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall
14.0 km
Scandinavia's premier shopping destination with 120+ brands, world-class cinema, and waterfront charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Intime
12.0 km
Discover the charm of Cafe Intime, a cozy bar and cafe in Frederiksberg offering delightful drinks and a warm ambiance for every visitor.
Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar - Frederiksberg
12.1 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.
Berlin Bar
12.4 km
Experience the eclectic vibe and creative mixology at Berlin Bar, the perfect spot for memorable nights in Frederiksberg.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
12.5 km
Experience the best of Denmark's brewing heritage at Frederiksberg Ølbar, a cozy bar with a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
Gensyn Bar
12.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg C at Gensyn Bar, known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Klovnens Bodega
12.7 km
Discover the heart of Nørrebro at Klovnens Bodega, a cozy pub offering a delightful atmosphere and a taste of local culture.
JOJO
12.8 km
Colourful neighbourhood cocktail bar in Vesterbro, serving freshly crafted drinks on tap in a relaxed, sociable setting that suits pre-drinks, dates and casual nights.
bird
12.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Bird, where unique cocktails and a laid-back ambiance await you.
Skovbar
12.8 km
Small, punk-spirited and queer-friendly bar in Nørrebro with vegan drinks, inclusive vibes and intimate music nights at budget-friendly prices.
La Fée Verte
12.9 km
Discover La Fée Verte, a charming bar in Frederiksberg, offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
12.9 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.
Märkbar
12.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Märkbar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets an eclectic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
The House of Machines Copenhagen
12.9 km
Award-winning cocktail bar with industrial soul and live music in Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Tap 21 Craft Beer
12.9 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Tap 21, a cozy Frederiksberg bar offering a wide selection of local and international brews in a welcoming atmosphere.
Gamble
13.2 km
An intimate Frederiksberg speakeasy where conversation, jazz and bespoke cocktails come together in a candlelit, retro-tinged corner of Copenhagen’s bar scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Nature Escape
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
