Thingbæk Chalk Mines & Rebildcentret
An atmospheric chalk mine turned sculpture museum, paired with Rebildcentret’s geology and Cold War exhibits in the hills near Skørping.
Set in the rolling landscape near Skørping, Thingbæk Chalk Mines & Rebildcentret combine an atmospheric underground limestone mine with an unusual sculpture museum and thoughtfully curated exhibitions. Wander candlelit tunnels lined with gypsum and bronze works by Danish sculptors, learn how limestone and springs shaped the area, and explore engaging displays on the Cold War and the secret REGAN Vest bunker. Above ground, protected hillsides and woodland trails lead to land-art pieces and views towards Rebild Bakker, making this a rare blend of geology, art, and history in a single, compact site.
A brief summary to Thingbæk Chalk Mines / Rebild Center
- Røde Møllevej 4, Skørping, 9520, DK
- +4598375500
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Bring a warm layer; the temperature inside the mines stays chilly year-round, even on hot summer days.
- Wear sturdy, closed shoes, as underground paths can be damp and slightly uneven in places.
- Allow extra time for the Cold War and REGAN Vest exhibition in the museum building; it is more extensive than it first appears.
- Check current opening hours and any seasonal restrictions, as access can vary during bat hibernation periods.
- Combine your visit with a short walk towards Rebild Bakker to appreciate how the chalk landscape shapes the surrounding scenery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car from Aalborg
From central Aalborg, driving to Thingbæk Chalk Mines via the main regional road network typically takes 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. The route follows major roads through rural North Jutland and is straightforward year-round. There is on-site parking at the Rebildcentret area, usually free of charge, but spaces can fill up in peak holiday periods, so allow a little extra time to park.
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Train and taxi from Aalborg
Take a regional train from Aalborg to Skørping, a journey of around 25–35 minutes with departures roughly every half hour during the day. From Skørping station, local taxis can cover the remaining distance to the mines in about 10–15 minutes. A one-way train ticket is typically in the range of 40–70 DKK per adult, while the short taxi ride usually adds around 120–200 DKK depending on time of day and waiting charges.
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Train and bicycle from Skørping
If you are staying in Skørping or arriving there by train, renting or bringing a bicycle offers a pleasant way to reach the mines. The ride takes roughly 20–30 minutes each way on gently undulating roads and lanes through forested countryside. Surfaces are paved but can be exposed to wind and rain, so weather-appropriate clothing is important. There is space to secure bicycles near the entrance area.
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Regional bus from Aalborg area
Regional buses serving the Rebild and Skørping area provide a public-transport alternative, with total travel times often between 45 and 70 minutes including transfers. Services are less frequent in evenings and at weekends, and some routes operate only on school days, so checking current timetables in advance is essential. Standard single fares on regional buses in North Jutland generally fall in the range of 30–70 DKK depending on zones travelled.
Thingbæk Chalk Mines / Rebild Center location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Thingbæk Chalk Mines / Rebild Center
From Working Mine to Atmospheric Underground Museum
Thingbæk began life in 1926 as a commercial limestone mine, tapping into the soft white chalk layers that underlie this part of North Jutland. For decades, stone was quarried here for agriculture and industry, cut from lofty chambers that now feel almost cathedral-like. Operations ceased around 1960 when the mine was no longer profitable, but its transformation had already begun. As early as 1935, sections of the mine were opened to the public, and sculptor Anders Bundgaard started placing plaster works in the cool, echoing spaces. What was once purely a workplace slowly evolved into one of Denmark’s most distinctive exhibition settings, where the rock itself forms walls, pedestals, and backdrops.Sculptures Hidden in the Chalk
Today, the former mine is a sculpture museum, with gypsum figures by Anders Bundgaard sharing the caverns with bronze works by Carl Johan Bonnesen. Many pieces are models for large, well-known monuments around Denmark, including the Cimbrian Bull in Aalborg and the Gefion Fountain in Copenhagen, giving you a rare chance to see these icons in a more intimate scale. The interplay of candlelight, dripping water and pale stone adds drama to every niche. A relief carved directly into the limestone by Søren Assenholt blurs the line between artwork and bedrock, while temporary installations sometimes introduce new perspectives without disturbing the mine’s raw atmosphere.Rebildcentret: Geology, Springs and Cold War Stories
Above ground, Rebildcentret ties the underground world to the wider landscape. Exhibitions explain how limestone was formed, how it filters groundwater, and why powerful springs emerge in the surrounding valley. Displays bring together fossils, models and interactive elements to show how chalk shaped both nature and human activity here. A major permanent exhibition is dedicated to Denmark’s Cold War history and the once-secret REGAN Vest bunker, built deep in the nearby hillside as a government shelter. Detailed reconstructions, objects and diagrams outline how the facility was planned to function and place it in the broader context of 20th-century tensions.Nature, Springs and Land Art Above the Tunnels
Step back outside and the setting opens onto protected countryside, with views towards Rebild Bakker’s heaths and wooded slopes. Short trails link the museum to springs and to a small loop of land-art works in the forest above the mine, where artists have used natural materials that weather and slowly return to the landscape. The contrast between the enclosed, dimly lit tunnels and the airy hillside is part of the experience. On the same visit you can trace the journey of water from chalk aquifers to bubbling sources, and see how geology underpins both the scenery and the stories told within the center.Bats, Seasons and Practical Visiting Experience
The mine’s steady, cool temperature makes it a refuge for several species of bats that hibernate here in winter, hanging among the sculptures or tucked in cracks high above the walkways. To protect them, parts of the underground area can be seasonally restricted, and it is worth packing an extra layer even in high summer as the chill can be surprising. Paths in the mine are relatively level but can be damp and slightly uneven, so sensible footwear is advisable. Combined with time in the museum building and a stroll outside, most visitors find that a couple of hours pass quickly, especially if you take time with the Cold War exhibition or follow one of the short trails near the center.A Compact Stop Linking Art, History and Landscape
Thingbæk Chalk Mines & Rebildcentret work best as a half-day excursion that weaves together art, geology and recent history in a way few sites manage. It is compact enough to feel manageable yet layered with detail, from early 20th-century mining to 21st-century heritage storytelling. Whether you are drawn by the underground sculptures, the story of REGAN Vest, or the chance to explore a distinctive corner of Danish countryside, the site offers a coherent narrative: how chalk, water and political anxiety shaped this quiet valley. That mix, anchored in a striking physical setting, is what gives Thingbæk its lasting character.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel BramslevGaard
19.6 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
19.6 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
20.9 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
22.5 km
Denmark's most beautiful fjord meets a thriving sailing community in this welcoming maritime harbor.
Hotel Postgaarden Mariager
22.7 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
22.8 km
A lofty Bridgettine abbey church turned parish landmark, where Gothic stone, noble tombs and organ music tell Mariager’s story above the fjord.
Kings Hill | Megalithic tomb
22.8 km
Explore the rich tapestry of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's premier design museum.
Mariager Church
22.9 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.
Befrielsessten i Assens
23.0 km
A modest liberation stone in historic Mariager, offering a quiet green corner to reflect on Denmark’s World War II occupation and the joy of 1945.
Rosenhaven
23.0 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'.
Alstrup krat
23.1 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.
Munkholmanlægget
23.1 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.
Ivan Evigvår trold
23.1 km
Explore Ivan Evigvår Trold, a magical tourist attraction in Mariager, Denmark, where folklore meets artistry in a stunning natural setting.
Fyrkat Viking Museum
23.1 km
Explore the rich Viking heritage at Fyrkat Viking Museum in Hobro, Denmark, featuring interactive exhibits and authentic Viking reconstructions.
Unmissable attractions to see
rebildsmykket.dk
0.0 km
Underground chalk mines, evocative sculpture and modern exhibitions meet scenic valley views at this compact cultural and landscape hub near Rebild Bakker.
Rold Storkro
0.6 km
Classic Danish forest inn with pool, mini-golf and panorama dining, set between Rold Skov’s deep woods and the rolling heath hills of Rebild Bakker.
Skillingbro kalkgrav
0.7 km
A quiet chalk quarry at the edge of Rold Skov where ancient seabed fossils, rare wildflowers and forest lore meet in a compact, hands-on slice of deep time.
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.
Rold Forest
1.1 km
Denmark’s largest contiguous forest: a rolling mosaic of springs, hills, rare orchids and historic tracks, inviting year‑round walking, cycling and quiet nature immersion.
Troldeskoven
1.1 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.
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.
Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest
1.2 km
Once Denmark’s deepest state secret, this fully preserved Cold War government bunker now reveals life, fear and contingency planning 60 metres beneath a Jutland hill.
Skovtårnet
1.4 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.
Gravlev Kilde
1.5 km
One of Denmark’s largest basin springs, where crystal-clear turquoise water wells up from chalk depths to feed a wildlife-rich brook and lake in Gravlev Valley.
Hvasstræet
1.7 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.
Bålhytten i Rebild Bakker
1.7 km
Octagonal fire shelter honoring Danish-American heritage in Rebild's protected hills.
Rebild National Park
1.8 km
Denmark's historic heathland where glacial hills meet Danish-American heritage and Europe's finest certified hiking trails.
Kimbrerstenen i Rebild Bakker
1.8 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.
Urskoven
1.9 km
Ancient beech forest untouched for centuries, where nature evolves freely in Denmark's largest woodland.
Essential places to dine
Westernhuset
1.7 km
Skørping's premier venue for group celebrations and traditional Danish dining
Top Karens Hus
1.7 km
Historic countryside traktørsted at the gateway to Rebild Bakker, serving traditional Danish food, coffee and cake in intimate low‑ceilinged rooms and garden.
Rebildhus
1.9 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
2.0 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
2.0 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
4.7 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
5.1 km
Historic forest pavilion serving French-Danish cuisine beside a pristine lake in North Jutland's natural heart.
Ice Sushi
6.5 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.
Restaurant Hul19
6.7 km
Laid-back Scandinavian clubhouse dining with sweeping views over Rold Skov Golfklub’s closing hole and the forested landscape beyond in Skørping.
Bella Italia Støvring
6.8 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
6.8 km
Lively neighborhood bakery-café in central Støvring, serving classic Danish breads, pastries and celebration cakes from early morning until late afternoon.
Burger King
8.9 km
Flame-grilled burgers and quick meals in rural Jutland's convenient fast-food hub.
Motorvejsgrillen
9.0 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.
MADUMSØHUS ISBAR
9.1 km
Homely countryside ice cream stop by Madum Lake, where classic Danish soft ice meets quiet Jutland landscapes and relaxed summer-evening vibes.
Sønderup Landkøkken v/Dorthe Nørhave Johansen
9.9 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
Vinhandel La BourGogne
0.6 km
Discover Vinhandel La BourGogne in Skørping: A curated selection of fine wines and expert guidance await wine enthusiasts.
Roldhøj Lopper og Luksus
1.9 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)
2.0 km
Heather-clad hills, glacial gorges, and cross-Atlantic heritage unite in Rebild Bakker, Denmark’s iconic national park and cultural meeting ground.
Holy Moses Wineshop
4.0 km
Characterful neighbourhood wine shop in Skørping, pouring American bottles, local vintages and sustainable delights from morning to evening every day.
Lenas Blomster
4.6 km
Friendly neighbourhood florist and gift boutique in the heart of Skørping, blending seasonal blooms, curated presents and local small-town charm.
Bogby 9520
4.6 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
4.7 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
4.7 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
4.7 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
4.7 km
Small-town Danish charity shop where second-hand fashion, homeware and local community spirit come together to support global humanitarian work.
Meny
4.7 km
Modern Danish supermarket in Skørping Centret with fresh counters, local specialties and a strong wine selection – a practical one‑stop shop for travelers.
Kirkens Korshær Genbrug
4.8 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.
Garndamen
4.8 km
Intimate yarn shop in the heart of Skørping, brimming with colourful fibres, patterns and friendly expertise for knitters and crocheters of every level.
Rold Forest Bike Shop
4.9 km
Denmark's premier mountain bike hub in the heart of Rold Forest's 50-kilometer trail network.
Louise Nørgaard
5.0 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
4.6 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
5.6 km
Cozy Støvring cocktail bar with crafted drinks, warm lighting and a Friday-night feeling any day of the week.
City Bar Støvring
6.6 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
6.8 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
7.0 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
12.0 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
12.5 km
Laid‑back Danish bodega in quiet Arden, where cold beer, worn wood and easy conversation create a timeless neighborhood hangout.
Center Pubben ApS
15.2 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
19.1 km
Aalborg's casual neighborhood bar for relaxed socializing and unwinding with friends
Club 85@Nibe Festival
19.7 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.
Jernkroen
20.0 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.
Vognhjulet Pub
21.4 km
Hobro's legendary rock pub where authentic Danish hospitality meets decades of local tradition.
Torvebaren
21.6 km
Classic Danish bodega in central Hobro, serving traditional beers, darts and down‑to‑earth local atmosphere from morning coffee to late‑night rounds.
Madam Blå's Vandhul
21.7 km
A cozy, day‑time neighborhood bar-café in Hobro where locals linger over coffee, beer and small talk in an easygoing, homely atmosphere.
Jazz Hobro
21.8 km
Northern Denmark's premier jazz venue, celebrating tradition and innovation through live performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Myth & Legends
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
- Business Friendly
