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Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest: Denmark's Cold War Secret

Explore Denmark's best-preserved Cold War bunker at Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest: an immersive journey into a secret world hidden beneath the forest, revealing a pivotal era in history.

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Delve into the depths of Denmark's Cold War history at Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest, a fascinating museum housed within a once-secret nuclear bunker. Hidden 60 meters beneath a chalk hill in Rold Skov, this remarkable facility was designed in the 1960s to shelter the government, officials, and the royal family in the event of a nuclear war. Explore the untouched 5,500 square meter bunker, complete with original furnishings, and gain insight into Denmark's crisis management plans. Visit the Master Machinist's House, a camouflaged yellow brick villa where the bunker's caretaker lived with his family, and experience daily life during the Cold War. With guided tours, interactive exhibits, and a new exhibition building, REGAN Vest offers a unique and immersive journey into a pivotal period of history. Pre-booking tickets online is essential to secure your place on a guided tour.

A brief summary to Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest

Local tips

  • Book your tickets online well in advance, as tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Pre-booking is essential to guarantee entry.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time, as latecomers will not be admitted. Allow ample time to explore the exhibition building and Master Machinist's House before or after your bunker tour.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking through the bunker complex. Be aware that the bunker is not wheelchair accessible and has other mobility restrictions.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more personalized experience. Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum and its exhibits.
  • Combine your visit with a hike in the surrounding Rold Skov forest or explore other nearby attractions like the Thingbæk Kalkminer and Rebild Bakker National Park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Skørping Station, the closest train station, take bus 53 or 104 towards Røde Møllevej. The bus stop is a short walk to the museum. A single bus fare costs approximately 24 DKK. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Skørping Station to Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest will cost approximately 150-200 DKK and take around 10 minutes.

  • Driving

    From Skørping, follow signs for Røde Møllevej. Limited free parking is available on-site, but carpooling is encouraged due to limited spaces. If approaching via main road 180 and turning onto Røde Møllevej, be aware of a maximum height of 3.90 meters at the viaduct under the main road.

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Discover more about Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest

Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest, located just outside Skørping, unveils one of Denmark's best-kept secrets: a nuclear-safe bunker constructed in the utmost secrecy during the Cold War. Hidden 60 meters beneath a chalk hill in the Rold Skov forest, REGAN Vest, short for REGeringsANlæg VESTdanmark (Government Facility West Denmark), was built in the 1960s to house the government, key officials, and the royal family in the event of a nuclear conflict. From this subterranean base, the Danish government would manage the country through a crisis, ensuring the continuation of democracy. The facility remained a closely guarded secret until recent years, and now, as a museum, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into a tense and uncertain era. The museum complex comprises several key elements. The main attraction is the 5,500 square meter bunker itself, remarkably preserved with all its original interiors intact. A guided tour takes you through the bunker's essential spaces, including the government's situation room, the monarch's quarters, living areas, and the cafeteria. The 300-meter entrance tunnel leads into a time capsule of 1960s design, with classic furniture and colors evoking the era. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the bunker's construction, its intended function, and Denmark's Cold War strategy. Adding to the intrigue is the Master Machinist's House, a seemingly ordinary yellow brick villa that served as the camouflaged entrance to the bunker. This was the home of the master machinist, who oversaw the daily operations of the facility. The villa is furnished as it might have appeared in the 1980s, offering a glimpse into the life of a family living with a monumental secret beneath their feet. Interactive displays allow visitors to hear stories from family members about their experiences during the Cold War. A newly built exhibition building complements the bunker and the Master Machinist's House, providing additional context and information about the Cold War, Denmark's preparedness efforts, and the construction of REGAN Vest. The exhibition uses multimedia and artifacts to illustrate the geopolitical tensions of the time and the impact on Danish society. REGAN Vest is more than just a historical site; it's an immersive experience that brings the Cold War to life. Walking through the bunker, you can imagine the pressure and uncertainty faced by those who would have been responsible for leading the country through a nuclear crisis. The museum highlights not only the political and military aspects of the Cold War but also the everyday lives of ordinary Danes during this period. The museum's location in Rold Skov adds to its appeal. The forest itself is a beautiful natural area, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring. The surrounding area also has other attractions, such as the Thingbæk Kalkminer (Chalk Mines) and Rebild Bakker National Park, making it a worthwhile destination for a day trip or longer. Visiting REGAN Vest requires advance planning. Tickets must be purchased online, and tours are limited in size. The bunker is not accessible to wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, and there are restrictions on bringing items like walking frames and strollers. It is recommended that children under 12 do not enter the bunker due to the mature themes and content. Arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time is essential, as latecomers will not be admitted. Parking is limited, so carpooling is encouraged. REGAN Vest stands as a powerful reminder of a time when the world teetered on the brink of nuclear war. It is a place to reflect on the importance of peace and diplomacy and to appreciate the resilience of the human spirit. A visit to this unique museum is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Cold War.

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