Store Økssø, Rold Skov
A calm, tea-brown forest lake in Rold Skov, ringed by woodland and bog, inviting slow walks, easy fishing and quiet nature moments in every season.
Store Økssø is a tranquil forest lake set deep in Rold Skov between Arden and Skørping in North Jutland. Covering about 33 hectares and ringed by dense woodland and restored bog, it offers an easy lakeside trail, wheelchair-accessible paths, fishing spots for perch and pike, and peaceful picnic corners. Clear but tea-brown water, birdlife and soft forest light make it a soothing escape for walkers, anglers, families and nature photographers in every season.
A brief summary to Store Økssø
- Skørping, 9520, DK
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 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
- Bring sturdy, water-resistant footwear; sections of the lakeside trail and nearby boggy ground can be muddy, especially after rain.
- If you plan to fish, arrange your mandatory Danish national fishing licence in advance and check current species regulations and seasons.
- Allow time to walk the full circuit of the lake; the experience is as much about changing views and light as about reaching a particular viewpoint.
- Pack layers, even in summer; the forest shade and proximity to the water can make temperatures cooler than in nearby towns.
- Keep to marked paths near the boggy areas to protect sensitive habitats and to avoid unexpectedly deep or soft ground.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Regional train and walk from Skørping
From Aalborg, take a regional train to Skørping, a journey of around 25–35 minutes with departures typically at least once per hour and standard ticket prices in the range of 40–80 DKK one way. From Skørping station you can walk on signposted forest roads and paths through Rold Skov to Store Økssø in about 45–60 minutes, mostly on unpaved but gently graded terrain suitable for reasonably fit walkers in most seasons.
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Car via Rold Skov access roads
Driving from Aalborg city centre to the Store Økssø area usually takes 35–45 minutes, depending on traffic. There is typically free or low-cost parking near main access points to the lake, but spaces can fill quickly on sunny weekends and holidays. Access roads are paved and suitable for standard vehicles year-round, though they may be narrow in places and require slower speeds when meeting cyclists and pedestrians.
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Cycling from Skørping through Rold Skov
From Skørping, experienced cyclists can follow forest roads and gravel tracks through Rold Skov to Store Økssø in roughly 25–40 minutes. The route combines compact gravel and occasional sandy or muddy sections, so a gravel, mountain or robust touring bike is recommended. There is no specific fee for cycling, but riders should be prepared for variable surfaces, wet patches after rain and limited lighting in dense forest, especially outside summer.
Store Økssø 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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Rain / Wet Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Store Økssø
A still forest lake at the heart of Rold Skov
Store Økssø lies in the middle of Rold Skov, one of Denmark’s largest continuous forests, roughly between the small towns of Arden and Skørping. At around 33 hectares in size and up to about eight metres deep, it is the second-largest lake in the forest, yet its atmosphere is surprisingly intimate. The shore is closely wrapped by mixed woodland so that, as you approach, the water appears almost suddenly through gaps in the trees. The lake’s water is remarkably clear but tinted a deep tea-brown by dissolved humus from the surrounding bogs, giving it a characteristic, slightly mysterious tone. On calm days, the surface becomes a mirror, reflecting a ring of spruce, beech and pine and, in autumn, bright bands of gold and copper foliage. It feels enclosed and sheltered, with the sounds of the forest – wind in the canopy, birdsong, and the occasional splash from a fish – carrying easily across the water.Shaped by bogs, restoration and quiet conservation
Store Økssø is framed not only by forest but by areas of raised bog and wetland that tell the story of this part of Himmerland. Sections of former raised bog have been restored, with water levels raised to encourage the return of sphagnum moss and other specialist plants. From the paths you can see stretches of open, wet ground and low vegetation that contrast with the dark tree line and add to the lake’s sense of wildness. Because the lake is nutrient-poor and alkaline, relatively few aquatic species thrive here, but those that do are well adapted to these conditions. The brown-tinged water, the soft, sometimes spongy ground near the shore, and the mix of open views and dense cover create an environment that feels both fragile and resilient. Basic waymarking and management are deliberately low-key, designed to protect the habitats while still allowing visitors to wander, watch and listen.Walking, wheeling and lingering by the shore
A main attraction of Store Økssø is the simple pleasure of circling the lakeshore. A well-trodden path follows the water, weaving between the trees and opening up repeatedly to views across the lake. The terrain is mostly gentle, with only modest undulations, making it suitable for a wide range of walkers, including families with children. Notably, there is an accessible path down to and partly around the lake, as well as a dedicated fishing platform designed for wheelchair users on the southern side. Surfaces vary from compacted forest track to smoother sections near the most used access points, but the overall impression is of a route that invites a leisurely pace. There are informal places to pause, sit on a bench or a fallen trunk, and watch sunlight shift across the water.Angling, birdlife and year-round nature experiences
Store Økssø is also known as a fishing lake, with stocks of perch, pike and eel. Angling here requires a valid national fishing licence, but there is otherwise open access to the water, making it a straightforward stop for visiting fishers. Casting a line from the shore or from the accessible fishing spot quickly becomes a meditative exercise, with long pauses between movements and only the quiet plop of the lure breaking the surface. Birdlife changes with the seasons: in spring and summer, you may hear warblers and see waterfowl patrolling the lake, while in winter the surrounding forest can feel stripped-back and silent, the lake sometimes edged with ice. Gravel and forest tracks nearby make the area popular with hikers and cyclists who use the lake as a natural pause point, whether for a picnic, a swim in warmer weather or simply a few minutes of stillness.Light, seasons and the mood of the forest
Part of Store Økssø’s appeal lies in how strongly it reflects the seasons and the changing light. On bright days, the brown water takes on copper and amber highlights, contrasting with a pale sky. In mist or low cloud, the lake can feel almost enclosed, the far shore fading into grey while the forest muffles sound. Late summer evenings bring long, slow sunsets between the trees, while autumn mists drift over the bog. Even small shifts in weather noticeably change the lake’s character, from glassy calm to wind-rippled surface in minutes. Visitors tend to slow down here, drawn into observing details: ripples from a rising fish, patterns of lichens on trunks, or the way roots twist down towards the water. Whether you arrive during a busy family outing or at a quiet off-peak hour, Store Økssø works best when you give it time and let its calm, forested setting unfold around you.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel BramslevGaard
16.1 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
16.1 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
16.2 km
Denmark's longest fjord winds through pristine Jutland landscapes, offering unspoilt nature, charming villages, and exceptional outdoor adventures.
Mariager Lystbådehavn
17.9 km
Denmark's most beautiful fjord meets a thriving sailing community in this welcoming maritime harbor.
Hobro Lystbådehavn
18.1 km
Denmark's premier fjord marina with historic charm and modern comfort.
Hotel Postgaarden Mariager
18.1 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
18.3 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
18.4 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.
Kings Hill | Megalithic tomb
18.8 km
Explore the rich tapestry of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's premier design museum.
Hotel Amerika
18.9 km
Experience tranquility and luxury at Hotel Amerika in Hobro, surrounded by the scenic Østerskoven forest and close to the beautiful Mariager Fjord, offering a unique blend of history and modern comfort.
Torvekonen
18.9 km
A modest bronze market woman and fountain on Hobro’s main square, Torvekonen quietly celebrates the town’s trading roots and everyday life at Store Torv.
Havnø Gods
20.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Havnø Gods, a historic Danish farm estate offering a tranquil escape into the countryside, complete with scenic trails and a glimpse into traditional agriculture.
Havnø Mølle
20.3 km
Discover North Jutland's oldest active windmill, a beautifully restored 1842 Dutch mill offering guided tours and a glimpse into Denmark's milling history amidst scenic fjord landscapes.
Fyrkat Viking Museum
20.6 km
Explore the rich Viking heritage at Fyrkat Viking Museum in Hobro, Denmark, featuring interactive exhibits and authentic Viking reconstructions.
Lille Vildmose
21.9 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Naturstyrelsen
1.1 km
Hike Denmark’s legendary Kvalitetssti Rebild, where glacial hills, heather moors, and a tapestry of history create a captivating natural escape near Skørping.
Nst Himmerland
1.1 km
Forests, lakes and quiet trails: NST Himmerland’s Rold Skov landscape offers classic Danish nature, gentle adventures and simple outdoor facilities near Skørping.
Rold Skov
1.5 km
Denmark’s largest continuous forest, where glacial hills, crystal-clear springs, heather-clad slopes and deep conifer stands create an endlessly varied northern woodland escape.
Midt inde i Rold Skov
2.7 km
Deep within Denmark's largest forest, a serene woodland viewpoint revealing ancient landscapes and timeless natural beauty.
Urskoven
3.2 km
Ancient beech forest untouched for centuries, where nature evolves freely in Denmark's largest woodland.
Hvasstræet
3.3 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.
Madum Lake
3.4 km
Crystal-clear forest lake in Rold Skov, combining sandy swimming coves, a scenic woodland loop and rich birdlife in a protected Danish nature sanctuary.
Skovtårnet
3.7 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.
Museum Rebild
3.7 km
Where Danish emigration stories meet transatlantic friendship in historic northern Jutland hills.
Rebild Bakker Information
3.7 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.
RebildPorten
3.7 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.
VINGES VANDRING
3.7 km
Experience Denmark’s most iconic heathland vistas and heritage on the well-marked Kvalitetssti Rebild hiking trail in the legendary Rebild National Park.
Kimbrerstenen i Rebild Bakker
3.7 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
3.7 km
Octagonal fire shelter honoring Danish-American heritage in Rebild's protected hills.
Rold Skov Orienteringsklub
3.8 km
Community-driven orienteering at the edge of Denmark’s Rold Forest, where detailed maps, quiet trails and local passion turn navigation into adventure.
Essential places to dine
Mosskovpavillonen
0.1 km
Historic forest pavilion serving French-Danish cuisine beside a pristine lake in North Jutland's natural heart.
Papas Pizza Og Kebab House V/Serdar Keskin
3.6 km
Casual neighborhood pizzeria and kebab house in central Skørping, serving generous Danish-style pizzas, kebabs and grill favorites at moderate prices all week.
Bb Rold
3.6 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
3.7 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.
Rebildhus
3.8 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.
Top Karens Hus
3.8 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
3.8 km
Skørping's premier venue for group celebrations and traditional Danish dining
MADUMSØHUS ISBAR
4.6 km
Homely countryside ice cream stop by Madum Lake, where classic Danish soft ice meets quiet Jutland landscapes and relaxed summer-evening vibes.
Restaurant Hul19
4.6 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
9.8 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
10.1 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
10.2 km
Lively neighborhood bakery-café in central Støvring, serving classic Danish breads, pastries and celebration cakes from early morning until late afternoon.
Burger King
11.1 km
Flame-grilled burgers and quick meals in rural Jutland's convenient fast-food hub.
Motorvejsgrillen
11.2 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.
Terndrup Kro
11.3 km
Traditional Danish inn and restaurant in the heart of Terndrup, serving hearty local dishes with simple rooms and welcoming village atmosphere near Rold Skov.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Holy Moses Wineshop
3.4 km
Characterful neighbourhood wine shop in Skørping, pouring American bottles, local vintages and sustainable delights from morning to evening every day.
REMA 1000
3.6 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.
Rold Forest Bike Shop
3.6 km
Denmark's premier mountain bike hub in the heart of Rold Forest's 50-kilometer trail network.
Bogby 9520
3.6 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.
Maggies Gemakker
3.6 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.
Garndamen
3.6 km
Intimate yarn shop in the heart of Skørping, brimming with colourful fibres, patterns and friendly expertise for knitters and crocheters of every level.
FKN Genbrug / DCA Op Shop
3.6 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
3.6 km
Small-town Danish charity shop where second-hand fashion, homeware and local community spirit come together to support global humanitarian work.
Louise Nørgaard
3.6 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.
Roldhøj Lopper og Luksus
3.7 km
A cosy vintage barn near Rebild Bakker packed with Danish design, retro furniture and quirky treasures for slow, sustainable treasure hunting in Skørping.
Sc Møbler
3.7 km
Down-to-earth Danish furniture and home comforts in a small-town Arden showroom focused on practical, real-life living spaces.
Lenas Blomster
3.7 km
Friendly neighbourhood florist and gift boutique in the heart of Skørping, blending seasonal blooms, curated presents and local small-town charm.
Meny
3.8 km
Modern Danish supermarket in Skørping Centret with fresh counters, local specialties and a strong wine selection – a practical one‑stop shop for travelers.
Rebild Bakker (Rebildvej / Rebild)
3.8 km
Heather-clad hills, glacial gorges, and cross-Atlantic heritage unite in Rebild Bakker, Denmark’s iconic national park and cultural meeting ground.
MilesAbove
3.9 km
Premium footwear destination in Skørping, offering quality shoes and expert service daily.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Skørping Bodega
3.6 km
Down-to-earth local bodega in central Skørping, serving cold beers, simple drinks and small-town atmosphere from midday until late on weekends.
Rottehullet / Bodega
7.5 km
Laid‑back Danish bodega in quiet Arden, where cold beer, worn wood and easy conversation create a timeless neighborhood hangout.
Happy Friday
8.9 km
Cozy Støvring cocktail bar with crafted drinks, warm lighting and a Friday-night feeling any day of the week.
Carsten fenger
9.4 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.
City Bar Støvring
10.0 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
10.2 km
Laid‑back neighborhood bar in small‑town Støvring, with a subtle motorbike vibe, simple drinks and a down‑to‑earth atmosphere on Viborgvej.
Center Pubben ApS
11.3 km
Cozy neighborhood pub in Terndrup Center, pouring cold beer, simple drinks and warm small-town atmosphere in a no-nonsense Danish bar setting.
Loke's Ølstue
11.7 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.
Den Graa Kok Vinkælderen
17.4 km
Refined wine bar and cellar in North Jutland offering curated selections and elegant dining.
Jagtstuen
17.5 km
Traditional Danish bodega-style bar in central Hadsund, known for its cozy atmosphere and pioneering dementia-friendly approach to everyday social life.
Kælderen
17.5 km
Intimate basement bar at the heart of Hadsund's town square, open for evening gatherings Thursday through Sunday.
ar
17.9 km
Unpretentious waterfront bar on Ved Stranden in Hadsund, where simple drinks, fjord views and small-town atmosphere create an easygoing evening stop.
Olivia
18.2 km
Casual Danish beer hall where locals gather for drinks, conversation, and authentic small-town hospitality.
Vognhjulet Pub
18.7 km
Hobro's legendary rock pub where authentic Danish hospitality meets decades of local tradition.
Torvebaren
18.9 km
Classic Danish bodega in central Hobro, serving traditional beers, darts and down‑to‑earth local atmosphere from morning coffee to late‑night rounds.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
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
- Pet Friendly
