Rebild National Park
Denmark's historic heathland where glacial hills meet forest, American heritage, and timeless natural beauty.
Rebild National Park is Denmark's historic nature preserve, featuring rolling heather-covered hills, ancient forests, and scenic walking trails across 80 square kilometers of protected landscape. Founded in 1912 by Danish-American immigrants, the park celebrates cultural heritage while offering outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, and canoeing. The surrounding Rold Skov forest—Denmark's largest—contains Bronze Age burial mounds, natural springs, and viewpoints overlooking the Himmerland region.
A brief summary to Rebild National Park
- Rebildvej 31, Skørping, 9520, DK
- Duration: 2 to 8 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 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 in late summer or early autumn when heather blooms across the hills, creating a purple-hued landscape. The seasonal transformation is most dramatic from August through September.
- Start at Rold Storko, a natural stopping point where you can obtain maps, receive instructions, and enjoy refreshments before beginning your exploration of the yellow-marked trails.
- Climb to Sønderkol viewpoint for panoramic views across Lindenborg Ådal and the surrounding landscape. The 102-metre elevation provides perspective on the park's glacial geography.
- Combine outdoor activities with cultural visits—explore Thingbæk Chalk Mines and Top Karen's house to understand the area's geological and immigrant heritage alongside natural attractions.
- Allow several hours minimum for exploration; the interconnected trail system and varied terrain support half-day or full-day visits depending on your pace and interests.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car from Aalborg
Drive approximately 30 kilometres south from Aalborg city centre via Route 16 towards Skørping. Travel time is approximately 35–45 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available at the main entrance near Rebildvej 31, Skørping. The park is easily accessible by private vehicle, with well-signposted routes from Aalborg.
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Bus from Aalborg
Regional bus services operate between Aalborg and Skørping, with journey times of approximately 50–70 minutes depending on the service and stops. Buses run several times daily; check local timetables for current schedules. The bus stop in Skørping is within walking distance of the park entrance. This option is economical and does not require parking.
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Bicycle from Skørping
Skørping village is approximately 5–8 kilometres from the main park entrance. Cycling through the Himmerland countryside takes 20–30 minutes and offers an immersive approach to the landscape. Regional cycling routes connect Skørping to the park; local tourist information can provide detailed route maps.
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Guided Tour from Aalborg
Organized day tours operate from Aalborg, typically including transport, guided interpretation, and visits to key sites such as Thingbæk Chalk Mines and viewpoints. Tours generally run 6–8 hours and cost approximately 400–600 Danish kroner per person. Booking is recommended, especially during peak season and around the Fourth of July festival.
Rebild National Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rebild National Park
A Landscape Born from Glacial History
Rebild National Park encompasses a distinctive terrain shaped by ancient glacial activity. The rolling hills that define the landscape are not natural peaks but rather formations created by glacial gorges carved into the sides of creeks over millennia. From Sønderkol, one of the area's highest points at 102 metres above sea level, visitors gain spectacular views across Lindenborg Ådal and the surrounding hilly terrain. The lime-rich underground geology has created countless natural springs where crystal-clear groundwater emerges from chalk deposits, forming a beautiful network of watercourses that flow through the park.Flora, Fauna, and Seasonal Transformations
The open heathland supports diverse vegetation that changes dramatically throughout the year. Heather flowers blanket the hills seasonally, while crowberries, blueberries, cranberries, and juniper berries thrive across the landscape. Beech trees and mixed forest create pockets of woodland within the broader heathland ecosystem. Grazing sheep help maintain the natural character of the open fields, and native bird species inhabit the area year-round. The varied terrain—from open heath to dense forest—ensures an ever-changing landscape that rewards repeated visits.Danish-American Heritage and the Fourth of July Tradition
Rebild National Park holds unique cultural significance as the site of the world's largest and only official Fourth of July celebration held outside the United States. In 1912, a group of Danish-American immigrants purchased over 80 hectares of heather-covered land and gifted it to Denmark to create a permanent gathering place for celebrating American Independence Day with their Danish families and fellow immigrants. This tradition continues annually, drawing thousands of visitors to the park on July 4th. The park's founding reflects the deep historical connections between Denmark and the Danish-American diaspora, making it a living monument to immigration and cultural exchange.Rold Skov: Denmark's Largest Forest
Surrounding the hills on three sides, Rold Skov forest encompasses 80 square kilometers, making it Denmark's largest forest. The woodland consists of coniferous, deciduous, and mixed forest types, interspersed with stunning lakes and charming waterholes. Ancient monuments dot the landscape, including Bronze Age and Bronze Stone Age burial mounds that testify to thousands of years of human settlement. Local folklore speaks of robbers who once ruled the forest, though today's visitors encounter only friendly interpretations of this colorful history at attractions like the Robbers' Camp.Museums and Cultural Attractions
The park area hosts several distinctive museums that illuminate local and regional history. Thingbæk Chalk Mines offers insight into limestone extraction and features sculptures within the mining landscape. Top Karen's house provides context on Danish emigration to America and the park's Fourth of July heritage. The Møllehistorisk Samling (Collection of Molinological History) explores the history of water mills, wind mills, and animal-driven mills. Havno Mølle, built in 1842 and located between Mariager Fjord and the Lounkaer forests, stands as the oldest windmill in Northern Jutland. These cultural sites complement the natural attractions, creating a layered experience that combines outdoor recreation with historical understanding.Outdoor Activities and Visitor Infrastructure
The hilly terrain and forest network support diverse recreational pursuits. Hiking trails range from gentle walks to more challenging routes through varied topography. Mountain biking tracks wind through the forest, offering both scenic routes and technical challenges. Canoeing on Lindenborg Stream provides a water-based perspective of the landscape. Fishing opportunities exist in the streams and lakes for those seeking a quieter experience. Horseback riding trips through Rold Forest offer alternative ways to explore the terrain. The park provides practical infrastructure including shelters, campsites, and outdoor sleeping areas for those wishing to extend their visit. Lunch huts such as Vedsted Skovhus offer rest points, and lookout towers provide elevated vantage points across the landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel BramslevGaard
19.3 km
Experience tranquility and history at Hotel BramslevGaard, nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker by Mariager Fjord, offering gourmet dining, spa retreats, and easy access to Northern Jutland's natural wonders.
Restaurant BramslevGaard
19.3 km
Experience Danish history and gastronomy at BramslevGaard, a charming manor house nestled in the scenic Bramslev Bakker near Hobro, offering stunning views and French-inspired cuisine.
Mariager Fjord
19.9 km
Denmark's longest fjord winds through pristine Jutland landscapes, offering unspoilt nature, charming villages, and exceptional outdoor adventures.
Hobro Lystbådehavn
20.9 km
Denmark's premier fjord marina with historic charm and modern comfort.
Mariager Lystbådehavn
21.6 km
Denmark's most beautiful fjord meets a thriving sailing community in this welcoming maritime harbor.
Hotel Postgaarden Mariager
21.9 km
Experience historic Danish charm and modern comfort at Hotel Postgaarden Mariager, nestled in the heart of the 'City of Roses' with easy access to Mariager Fjord's natural beauty.
Mariager Kirke
22.0 km
A lofty Bridgettine abbey church turned parish landmark, where Gothic stone, noble tombs and organ music tell Mariager’s story above the fjord.
Mariager Church
22.1 km
A towering former abbey church above Mariager Fjord, where Gothic brickwork, noble tombs and a distinctive Aubertin organ keep centuries of faith and history alive.
Alstrup krat
22.2 km
Explore Alstrup Krat near Mariager: Hike through ancient forests, discover Bronze Age burial mounds, and enjoy stunning views of Mariager Fjord. A blend of history and nature awaits.
Rosenhaven
22.2 km
Discover Rosenhaven in Mariager, Denmark: a serene city park with over 400 rose species, blending history and beauty for a tranquil escape in the 'City of Roses'.
Munkholmanlægget
22.3 km
Discover Munkholmanlægget in Mariager: A historic park with tranquil nature, a charming lake, and a touch of whimsy, perfect for a peaceful escape and exploration.
Kings Hill | Megalithic tomb
22.3 km
Explore the rich tapestry of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's premier design museum.
Ivan Evigvår trold
22.3 km
Explore Ivan Evigvår Trold, a magical tourist attraction in Mariager, Denmark, where folklore meets artistry in a stunning natural setting.
Lille Vildmose
22.8 km
Discover Denmark's largest protected area, Lille Vildmose, a haven for wildlife and a unique raised bog ecosystem, offering immersive nature experiences and conservation insights.
Aalborg Zoo
23.1 km
Explore Malmö’s premier museum for technology, science, and seafaring, featuring interactive exhibitions, classic vehicles, and Sweden’s only public submarine display.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kimbrerstenen i Rebild Bakker
0.1 km
A carved Cimbrian bull in the heather-clad hills of Rebild Bakker, Kimbrerstenen links quiet North Jutland scenery with the far-reaching journeys of an ancient tribe.
Bålhytten i Rebild Bakker
0.1 km
Octagonal fire shelter honoring Danish-American heritage in Rebild's protected hills.
VINGES VANDRING
0.1 km
Experience Denmark’s most iconic heathland vistas and heritage on the well-marked Kvalitetssti Rebild hiking trail in the legendary Rebild National Park.
RebildPorten
0.1 km
Contemporary welcome center and terrace at the gateway to Rebild Hills and Rold Forest, where maps, stories and local insight prepare you for the landscape ahead.
Kvalitetssti Rebild
0.1 km
A certified premium hiking loop through Rebild Bakker’s purple heaths, deep springs and ancient forest, showcasing some of Denmark’s most dramatic lowland terrain.
Museum Rebild
0.1 km
Where Danish emigration stories meet transatlantic friendship in historic northern Jutland hills.
Rebild Bakker Information
0.2 km
Compact visitor hub with restrooms and trail information at the edge of Rebild Bakker, linking Skørping’s everyday life to Denmark’s heather-clad national park.
Danhostel Rebild
0.2 km
Welcoming hostel near Denmark's scenic Rebild Bakker hills with modern rooms, friendly staff, and included breakfast.
Comwell Rebild Bakker
0.4 km
Luxury resort immersed in Denmark's most visited national park, blending Nordic wellness with historic landscape.
Lars Kjærs Hus
0.9 km
Tiny forest cottage, big folk tale: step into the poacher Lars Kjær’s world and his fortune-telling wife’s home in the hills of Rebild Bakker.
Skovtårnet
1.1 km
Modest in height but rich in views, Skovtårnet lifts you above Rold Skov’s twisted pines for wide horizons over Rebild’s hills and valleys in every season.
Ravnkilde
1.1 km
A powerful clear-water spring hidden in the wooded folds of Rebild Bakker, where rare wetland plants, cool streams and seasonal sea trout share a tranquil valley.
Røverknolden
1.1 km
Artistic forest playground where imagination meets adventure in Denmark's largest woodland.
Troldeskoven
1.2 km
A compact corner of Rold Skov where centuries‑old beech trees twist into troll-like sculptures, blending folklore, forest history and quietly enchanting woodland atmosphere.
Hvasstræet
1.3 km
A modest memorial tree in the depths of Rold Skov, Hvasstræet quietly honours forester Jens Hvass amid rustling conifers and tranquil North Jutland woodland.
Essential places to dine
Top Karens Hus
0.0 km
Historic countryside traktørsted at the gateway to Rebild Bakker, serving traditional Danish food, coffee and cake in intimate low‑ceilinged rooms and garden.
Westernhuset
0.1 km
Skørping's premier venue for group celebrations and traditional Danish dining
Rebildhus
0.1 km
Hearty Danish lunch and countryside charm on the edge of Rebild Bakker’s rolling hills, a relaxed restaurant base for walks, family outings and day trips.
Bb Rold
0.2 km
A homely little café and B&B-style retreat in a quiet Skørping street, offering simple comforts and easy access to the forests and hills of Rold Skov.
Røverstuen
0.3 km
Woodland restaurant at Rebild’s edge, where Danish comfort cooking, rustic interiors and forest legends combine into a relaxed, story-rich meal stop in Skørping.
Papas Pizza Og Kebab House V/Serdar Keskin
2.9 km
Casual neighborhood pizzeria and kebab house in central Skørping, serving generous Danish-style pizzas, kebabs and grill favorites at moderate prices all week.
Mosskovpavillonen
3.8 km
Historic forest pavilion serving French-Danish cuisine beside a pristine lake in North Jutland's natural heart.
Restaurant Hul19
5.0 km
Laid-back Scandinavian clubhouse dining with sweeping views over Rold Skov Golfklub’s closing hole and the forested landscape beyond in Skørping.
Ice Sushi
6.4 km
Straightforward sushi takeaway on Hobrovej in Støvring, serving practical sharing boxes and casual eat-in options for easy weeknight dinners and road-trip stops.
Bella Italia Støvring
6.7 km
Cozy pizza and steakhouse on Støvring’s main street, serving generous Italian-inspired comfort food and easygoing Danish hospitality for locals and road‑trippers alike.
MesterBageren Støvring
6.7 km
Lively neighborhood bakery-café in central Støvring, serving classic Danish breads, pastries and celebration cakes from early morning until late afternoon.
MADUMSØHUS ISBAR
7.4 km
Homely countryside ice cream stop by Madum Lake, where classic Danish soft ice meets quiet Jutland landscapes and relaxed summer-evening vibes.
Burger King
10.3 km
Flame-grilled burgers and quick meals in rural Jutland's convenient fast-food hub.
Motorvejsgrillen
10.4 km
Old-school Danish roadside grill off the Nørager motorway, serving hearty burgers, fries and classic fast food to drivers, locals and truckers all week.
Sønderup Landkøkken v/Dorthe Nørhave Johansen
11.6 km
Rural North Jutland kitchen turning classic Danish farm recipes into hearty daily meals and generous buffets for locals, pensioners and countryside celebrations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Roldhøj Lopper og Luksus
0.2 km
A cosy vintage barn near Rebild Bakker packed with Danish design, retro furniture and quirky treasures for slow, sustainable treasure hunting in Skørping.
Rebild Bakker (Rebildvej / Rebild)
0.3 km
Heather-clad hills, glacial gorges, and cross-Atlantic heritage unite in Rebild Bakker, Denmark’s iconic national park and cultural meeting ground.
Vinhandel La BourGogne
1.5 km
Discover Vinhandel La BourGogne in Skørping: A curated selection of fine wines and expert guidance await wine enthusiasts.
Holy Moses Wineshop
2.2 km
Characterful neighbourhood wine shop in Skørping, pouring American bottles, local vintages and sustainable delights from morning to evening every day.
Lenas Blomster
2.9 km
Friendly neighbourhood florist and gift boutique in the heart of Skørping, blending seasonal blooms, curated presents and local small-town charm.
Bogby 9520
2.9 km
Volunteer‑run book town in Skørping, where thousands of second‑hand volumes and a cosy, local atmosphere turn browsing into a slow‑travel highlight.
REMA 1000
2.9 km
No‑frills Danish discount supermarket in Skørping, ideal for stocking up on groceries, snacks and everyday essentials before exploring Rebild Bakker and Rold Skov.
Maggies Gemakker
2.9 km
A cosy Skørping fashion boutique offering timeless, mix-and-match women’s clothing and personal styling advice focused on longevity rather than fast trends.
FKN Genbrug / DCA Op Shop
2.9 km
Cozy volunteer-run charity thrift shop in central Skørping, where slow treasure-hunting, reuse and global solidarity all meet on one compact shop floor.
Folkekirkens Nødhjælp Genbrug
2.9 km
Small-town Danish charity shop where second-hand fashion, homeware and local community spirit come together to support global humanitarian work.
Meny
3.0 km
Modern Danish supermarket in Skørping Centret with fresh counters, local specialties and a strong wine selection – a practical one‑stop shop for travelers.
Garndamen
3.0 km
Intimate yarn shop in the heart of Skørping, brimming with colourful fibres, patterns and friendly expertise for knitters and crocheters of every level.
Kirkens Korshær Genbrug
3.0 km
Small-town Danish thrift shop where every second-hand bargain helps fund social work and offers a glimpse into everyday community life in Skørping.
Rold Forest Bike Shop
3.2 km
Denmark's premier mountain bike hub in the heart of Rold Forest's 50-kilometer trail network.
Louise Nørgaard
3.2 km
A cosy holistic beauty clinic and natural lifestyle boutique in small-town Skørping, blending personalised treatments, clean products and a calm, slow-paced atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Skørping Bodega
2.9 km
Down-to-earth local bodega in central Skørping, serving cold beers, simple drinks and small-town atmosphere from midday until late on weekends.
Happy Friday
5.4 km
Cozy Støvring cocktail bar with crafted drinks, warm lighting and a Friday-night feeling any day of the week.
City Bar Støvring
6.5 km
Unpretentious local bar in Støvring’s City Centret, offering simple drinks, friendly chat and a down-to-earth glimpse of everyday Danish small-town life.
Støvring Mc
6.7 km
Laid‑back neighborhood bar in small‑town Støvring, with a subtle motorbike vibe, simple drinks and a down‑to‑earth atmosphere on Viborgvej.
Loke's Ølstue
8.7 km
Suldrup’s no-frills bodega bar, where cold beer, local stories and small-town Danish pub culture come together in a cozy, lived-in corner on Aarestrupvej.
Carsten fenger
10.2 km
A low-key rural bar near Skørping where locals gather, travelers are welcomed, and simple drinks fuel long conversations in a relaxed countryside setting.
Rottehullet / Bodega
11.1 km
Laid‑back Danish bodega in quiet Arden, where cold beer, worn wood and easy conversation create a timeless neighborhood hangout.
Center Pubben ApS
13.4 km
Cozy neighborhood pub in Terndrup Center, pouring cold beer, simple drinks and warm small-town atmosphere in a no-nonsense Danish bar setting.
Skotten
18.6 km
Aalborg's casual neighborhood bar for relaxed socializing and unwinding with friends
Club 85@Nibe Festival
20.7 km
Small-town bar turned festival hotspot, Club 85 is where Nibe’s intimate music nights spill over into easygoing drinks, local charm and late-night singalongs.
Den Graa Kok Vinkælderen
20.9 km
Refined wine bar and cellar in North Jutland offering curated selections and elegant dining.
Jagtstuen
21.0 km
Traditional Danish bodega-style bar in central Hadsund, known for its cozy atmosphere and pioneering dementia-friendly approach to everyday social life.
Kælderen
21.0 km
Intimate basement bar at the heart of Hadsund's town square, open for evening gatherings Thursday through Sunday.
Jernkroen
21.1 km
Cozy harbor-side kro-bar in the heart of Nibe, where inexpensive drinks, a friendly courtyard and true small-town atmosphere invite you to linger.
ar
21.4 km
Unpretentious waterfront bar on Ved Stranden in Hadsund, where simple drinks, fjord views and small-town atmosphere create an easygoing evening stop.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Nature Escape
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Historic
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Panoramas
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
