Rebild National Park
Denmark's historic heathland where glacial hills meet Danish-American heritage and Europe's finest certified hiking trails.
Rebild National Park is Denmark's historic heathland preserve spanning rolling hills, ancient forests, and pristine springs in North Jutland. Founded in 1912 by Danish-American immigrants, this 80-hectare landscape features the certified premium Rebild Bakker hiking trail, diverse wildlife, and the world's largest 4th of July celebration. The park combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering trails through heather-covered hills, enchanted forests, and scenic viewpoints.
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: 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 in late August or September when heather blooms transform the hills into purple and pink landscapes—the park is absolutely spectacular during this period and justifies the journey.
- Start at RebildPorten visitor centre to obtain detailed trail maps and local advice; the staff can recommend routes matching your fitness level and time available.
- Bring a water bottle to refill at Ravnkilden spring—the stepping-stone crossing and pristine groundwater are iconic experiences, and the spring flows year-round.
- Combine hiking with a visit to Rold StorKro for traditional Danish lunch with valley views, or explore nearby Thingbæk Chalk Mines to understand the limestone geology shaping the landscape.
- Keep dogs on leash and bring waste bags; the park's leave-no-trace ethos is essential for preserving this fragile heathland ecosystem for future visitors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car from Aalborg
Drive north from Aalborg city centre via Route 16 towards Skørping, approximately 30–35 kilometres. Journey time is 35–45 minutes depending on traffic. Follow signs to Rebildvej and the main park entrance at Rebild Gate. Parking is available at the visitor centre and multiple trailheads throughout the park; no parking fees apply.
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Bus from Aalborg
Regional bus services operate from Aalborg central station to Skørping and nearby villages. Journey time is approximately 45–60 minutes depending on route and stops. Services run several times daily but are less frequent on weekends; check local timetables in advance. From Skørping village, the park entrance is a 2–3 kilometre walk or short taxi ride.
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Bicycle from Skørping
Skørping village, 3–4 kilometres south of the park, is accessible by regional bus or car. From Skørping, cycling to the main park entrance takes 20–30 minutes on local roads. The terrain is hilly but manageable; mountain bikes are recommended for forest trails within the park itself.
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Guided Tour from Aalborg
Several tour operators in Aalborg offer half-day and full-day guided excursions to Rebild National Park, typically including transport, trail guidance, and interpretation of natural and cultural heritage. Tours generally cost 400–800 Danish kroner per person and depart in the morning, returning by late afternoon.
Rebild National Park 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
Discover more about Rebild National Park
A Landscape Shaped by Glaciers and History
Rebild National Park occupies a unique position in Denmark's natural heritage, encompassing rolling hills, heathland, and the expansive Rold Skov forest across the Himmerland region of North Jutland. The distinctive topography—with hills reaching 102 metres at Sønderkol—was created not by conventional geological uplift but by glacial gorges carved into creek sides during the ice age, giving the landscape its characteristically dramatic relief. The park's 80 square kilometres of forest, combined with open heathland, create a mosaic of ecosystems that shift seasonally with blooming heather, crowberries, blueberries, and juniper berries. The limestone-rich underground has generated an extraordinary network of natural springs, including the celebrated Ravnkilden, where 85 litres of water flow each second through stepping stones. These springs—Gravlev Kilde, Egebæk Kilde, and Lille Blåkilde—represent some of Northern Europe's most prolific groundwater sources, their crystal-clear water emerging from chalk deposits and feeding the Lindenborg stream system.Danish-American Heritage and the 4th of July Tradition
Rebild National Park holds a singular place in global culture as the only official 4th of July celebration site outside the United States. In 1912, Danish-American immigrants purchased over 80 hectares of heathland and gifted it to Denmark with the condition that it be preserved and used to celebrate American Independence Day. Every 4th of July, thousands of Danes and Danish-Americans gather in the "Gryden" amphitheatre area, marked by two flagpoles visible from Sønderkol's summit, to commemorate their shared heritage. This tradition has made Rebild a symbol of Danish-American friendship and cultural continuity for over a century.The Premium Hiking Experience
The Rebild Bakker hiking trail, inaugurated in 2018, represents a watershed moment for Danish outdoor recreation. At 10.8 kilometres, this white-marked route was the first Danish trail to achieve certification as a "Premium hiking trail" by both the Danish Hiking Association and the Deutsches Wanderinstitut—Europe's most rigorous hiking trail quality system. The trail can be shortened to 8 kilometres or 3.6 kilometres, making it accessible to all fitness levels. Hikers encounter Troldeskoven (Troll Forest), a section of Rold Skov distinguished by unusually shaped trees and an almost mythical atmosphere, alongside the dramatic Sønderkol viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Lindenborg Valley. The yellow-marked Gravlev Lake circuit provides an alternative route through stunning springs and lakeside views, with benches positioned at key vantage points for rest and contemplation. Navigation is straightforward thanks to consistent trail markings, and the diverse terrain—from forest paths to open heathland—ensures constantly changing scenery.Flora, Fauna, and Seasonal Transformations
The park's ecological richness supports diverse wildlife, including kingfishers, grey wagtails, and white-throated dippers around the lakes and springs. The open heathland, maintained partly by grazing sheep, sustains rare plant communities adapted to nutrient-poor soils. The landscape undergoes dramatic seasonal transformations: late summer heather blooms paint the hills purple and pink, autumn brings rich forest colours, and winter reveals the skeletal beauty of deciduous trees alongside evergreen conifers. Spring awakens the springs with renewed vigour and emerging vegetation.Rold Skov: Denmark's Largest Forest
Rold Skov, encompassing 80 square kilometres, is Denmark's largest forest and forms the backdrop to Rebild's open hills. The forest contains Bronze Age and Bronze Stone Age burial mounds, sinkholes, and historical narratives of medieval robbers who once ruled these woods. Today, visitors encounter friendly "robbers" at the Robbers' Camp and can stop at Rold StorKro, a traditional inn positioned as a natural waypoint with views over Gravlev Valley. The forest's mix of coniferous, deciduous, and mixed woodland creates varied habitats and trail experiences suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and forest bathing.Access and Visitor Facilities
The park operates year-round with no entrance fee, making it accessible to all visitors. RebildPorten, the visitor centre, provides maps, trail information, and local guidance. Lunch huts and lookout towers are positioned throughout the forest, and nearby villages offer accommodation, dining, and services. The area lies approximately 20 minutes from Aalborg, Denmark's fourth-largest city, making it easily accessible for day trips or longer stays.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
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Eco-Friendly
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
