Springkilden, Rold Vesterskov
A hidden artesian spring surging from the forest floor in a steep Lindenborg valley, where water, ice and deep green woodland create an intimate natural spectacle.
Hidden deep in Rold Vesterskov near Skørping, Springkilden is a small but dramatic artesian spring that shoots cold, clear groundwater up through an iron pipe at the bottom of the Lindenborg river valley. Wrapped in tall forest and steep slopes, this secluded spot combines raw geology with a surprisingly intimate atmosphere. In winter the splashing water freezes into sculptural ice formations, turning the spring into a glittering natural artwork.
A brief summary to Springkilden
- Skørping, 9520, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 2 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
- Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes: the descent into the valley is steep in places and the ground near the spring can be very wet and muddy all year round.
- In winter, visit on a clear, cold day to see the dramatic ice formations that build up around the pipe when the spray freezes solid.
- Respect the boundary: you are not allowed to walk beyond the spring area, as the surrounding forest here is privately owned by Lindenborg Manor.
- Combine the stop with a longer hike in Rold Skov, linking Springkilden with viewpoints near Rebild Bakker or other marked forest trails.
- Bring a light extra layer; the valley around the spring often feels cooler and more humid than the surrounding forest plateau.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Aalborg
From Aalborg, driving to the Springkilden area near Skørping typically takes around 30–40 minutes via the main route south through Rold Skov. The final approach uses forest roads leading to the Tveden parking area, which is usually free but can be busy on fine weekends. Surfaces are standard paved and gravel roads, suitable for normal cars in most seasons, though after heavy rain smaller pools and mud can appear on the gravel section.
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Train and taxi from Aalborg to Skørping
Regional trains between Aalborg and Skørping generally run at least once an hour during the day, with a journey time of about 25–30 minutes and typical adult fares in the range of 40–70 DKK one way. From Skørping station, a pre-booked taxi ride to the Springkilden access point by Tveden in Rold Skov usually takes about 10–15 minutes. Taxi prices vary but are commonly around 150–250 DKK each way depending on time of day and waiting time.
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Cycling from Skørping
From Skørping town, reasonably experienced cyclists can reach the Springkilden access area in roughly 25–40 minutes, using local roads that pass through or alongside Rold Skov. The route involves some gentle hills and sections without separate cycle lanes, so visibility gear and caution are important. There is no specific bike parking at the forest entrance, but bicycles can usually be locked discreetly near the parking area without blocking access.
Springkilden location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
- Snow
Discover more about Springkilden
A secret spring in Denmark’s great forest
Springkilden lies tucked away in Rold Vesterskov, one of Denmark’s largest forest areas, at the very bottom of the steep-sided Lindenborg river valley. The approach drops you from cultivated clearings into a cool, shaded world of beech and conifer, where the slopes close in and the air turns damper and quieter. Down here the forest feels older and more enclosed, and the continuous sound of running water becomes your guide. By the time you reach the valley floor, the landscape feels almost like a small green amphitheatre. The path levels out beside the river plain, and on one side you suddenly meet the sight and sound that gave this place its name: water bursting straight up from the ground with surprising force. It is a compact natural scene, yet it has the intensity of a much larger landscape.The artesian well that won’t stop flowing
Springkilden is not a typical bubbling pond but an artesian well. Here, pressurised groundwater trapped between layers of clay and sand finds a vertical escape route through a thick iron pipe driven into the aquifer. As the pressure is released, the water shoots upwards in a steady column before splashing down into a shallow basin and trickling away across the valley floor. The constant flow means the water is always fresh, cold and remarkably clear, even after heavy rain. Around the base of the pipe, minerals in the groundwater tint stones and roots with subtle colours, while mosses thrive in the perpetual spray. It is a simple, almost industrial-looking structure set within soft, living forest – a striking contrast that underlines how much energy is moving unseen below the surface.Winter ice sculptures and seasonal moods
In winter, Springkilden changes character completely. When frost bites hard, the spray from the well freezes on contact with the pipe and surrounding surfaces, building up thick, translucent layers of ice. Over days and weeks these layers form strange, sculptural shapes, turning the spring into a natural ice fountain. The valley becomes quieter, the sound of splashing more muffled, and the low winter light makes the ice shimmer with blue and amber tones. The other seasons bring their own atmosphere. In spring, fresh green leaves frame the spring like a curtain, and birdsong competes with the rush of water. Summer makes this a pleasantly cool refuge on hot days, as cold air pools in the valley and the forest canopy filters the sun. In autumn, the slopes around the spring glow with copper and gold leaves, and fallen foliage gathers in eddies around the outflow.A privately owned forest with strict boundaries
Springkilden sits within Rold Vesterskov, which here is privately owned by Lindenborg Manor. Access to the spring itself is permitted, but you are not allowed to go beyond the clearly defined area around the well. This restriction helps protect both the fragile valley environment and the landowner’s working forest. Paths can be steep, uneven and muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear is advisable. The valley setting and tall trees can make mobile reception patchy, adding to the sense of being briefly cut off from the outside world. Despite this, the site remains relatively easy to fit into a broader day in Rold Skov, perhaps combined with viewpoints near Rebild Bakker or a longer forest walk passing other springs and clearings.A quiet pause on a longer forest adventure
Many visitors experience Springkilden as a pause point on a hike or nature walk through Rold Skov. The modest size of the site invites you to stop, listen and look rather than rush around. The constant thunder of water has a surprisingly calming effect, and the narrow valley focuses your attention on simple details: droplets catching light, roots gripping the slope, the steady plume of water refusing to stop. It is a place that rewards stillness more than activity, ideal for a short contemplative break, a photo stop or a moment to explain groundwater and geology to curious children. Then, after ten minutes or an unrushed half hour, you climb back up towards the forest plateau, leaving the persistent heartbeat of the spring echoing behind you in the shadowed valley.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel BramslevGaard
17.9 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
17.9 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.
Hobro Lystbådehavn
19.1 km
Denmark's premier fjord marina with historic charm and modern comfort.
Mariager Fjord
19.9 km
Denmark's longest fjord winds through pristine Jutland landscapes, offering unspoilt nature, charming villages, and exceptional outdoor adventures.
Mariager Lystbådehavn
21.3 km
Denmark's most beautiful fjord meets a thriving sailing community in this welcoming maritime harbor.
Hotel Postgaarden Mariager
21.5 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
21.7 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
21.7 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.
Hadsund Animal Garden
21.8 km
Discover a charming animal oasis in Hadsund: meet deer and goats up close in a family-friendly park offering a peaceful escape into nature and memorable animal encounters.
Rosenhaven
21.8 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
21.9 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
21.9 km
Explore Ivan Evigvår Trold, a magical tourist attraction in Mariager, Denmark, where folklore meets artistry in a stunning natural setting.
Alstrup krat
22.0 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.
Kongsdal Havn
22.2 km
Modern marina sheltered in Mariager Fjord, where contemporary facilities meet Denmark's maritime heritage.
Kongsdal Fyrtårn
22.2 km
A retired North Sea lighthouse reborn as the red‑and‑white landmark of tranquil Kongsdal Marina on the scenic shores of Mariager Fjord.
Unmissable attractions to see
Koldkrigsmuseet REGAN Vest
0.9 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.
Skillingbro kalkgrav
1.6 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.
Rold Forest
1.6 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.
Rold Storkro
1.8 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.
Troldeskoven
2.0 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.
rebildsmykket.dk
2.0 km
Underground chalk mines, evocative sculpture and modern exhibitions meet scenic valley views at this compact cultural and landscape hub near Rebild Bakker.
Thingbæk Chalk Mines / Rebild Center
2.0 km
An atmospheric limestone mine turned sculpture museum, paired with geology and Cold War exhibits in the Rebild hills, where art, stone, and history meet underground.
Urskoven
2.1 km
Ancient beech forest untouched for centuries, where nature evolves freely in Denmark's largest woodland.
Hvasstræet
2.1 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.
Skovtårnet
2.2 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.
Midt inde i Rold Skov
2.3 km
Deep within Denmark's largest forest, a serene woodland viewpoint revealing ancient landscapes and timeless natural beauty.
Rold Skov
2.3 km
A vast North Jutland forest of springs, legends and winding trails, where Bronze Age mounds, sinkholes and family-friendly paths share the shade of ancient trees.
Lars Kjærs Hus
2.6 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.
Flyverstenen i Torstedlund
2.9 km
Immerse yourself in Rebild’s scenic wilderness on this quality-certified hiking trail, blending iconic heathlands, beech woods, and Danish-American heritage.
Ravnkilde
3.1 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.
Essential places to dine
Westernhuset
3.2 km
Skørping's premier venue for group celebrations and traditional Danish dining
Top Karens Hus
3.2 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
3.3 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
3.3 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
3.4 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.
Mosskovpavillonen
5.0 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
5.9 km
Casual neighborhood pizzeria and kebab house in central Skørping, serving generous Danish-style pizzas, kebabs and grill favorites at moderate prices all week.
Burger King
7.1 km
Flame-grilled burgers and quick meals in rural Jutland's convenient fast-food hub.
Motorvejsgrillen
7.3 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.
Restaurant Hul19
7.9 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
8.5 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.
Sønderup Landkøkken v/Dorthe Nørhave Johansen
8.7 km
Rural North Jutland kitchen turning classic Danish farm recipes into hearty daily meals and generous buffets for locals, pensioners and countryside celebrations.
MesterBageren Støvring
8.8 km
Lively neighborhood bakery-café in central Støvring, serving classic Danish breads, pastries and celebration cakes from early morning until late afternoon.
Bella Italia Støvring
8.8 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.
MADUMSØHUS ISBAR
9.4 km
Homely countryside ice cream stop by Madum Lake, where classic Danish soft ice meets quiet Jutland landscapes and relaxed summer-evening vibes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vinhandel La BourGogne
1.8 km
Discover Vinhandel La BourGogne in Skørping: A curated selection of fine wines and expert guidance await wine enthusiasts.
Roldhøj Lopper og Luksus
3.3 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)
3.5 km
Heather-clad hills, glacial gorges, and cross-Atlantic heritage unite in Rebild Bakker, Denmark’s iconic national park and cultural meeting ground.
Rold Landhandel
4.7 km
Unassuming countryside farm shop at the edge of Rold Skov, blending local produce, everyday supplies and a slice of genuine rural life near Arden.
Skott in Rold
4.9 km
A focused bridal and occasionwear boutique in Arden, where curated Scandinavian style, personal fittings and on-site alterations shape outfits for life’s big celebrations.
Torv 1 A/S Nr. 68
4.9 km
A regional Danish bridal and occasionwear boutique where brides, party guests and confirmation celebrants come to choose carefully curated dresses for life’s big moments.
Holy Moses Wineshop
5.2 km
Characterful neighbourhood wine shop in Skørping, pouring American bottles, local vintages and sustainable delights from morning to evening every day.
Lenas Blomster
5.9 km
Friendly neighbourhood florist and gift boutique in the heart of Skørping, blending seasonal blooms, curated presents and local small-town charm.
REMA 1000
5.9 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.
Bogby 9520
5.9 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.
Maggies Gemakker
6.0 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
6.0 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
6.0 km
Small-town Danish charity shop where second-hand fashion, homeware and local community spirit come together to support global humanitarian work.
Garndamen
6.0 km
Intimate yarn shop in the heart of Skørping, brimming with colourful fibres, patterns and friendly expertise for knitters and crocheters of every level.
Meny
6.0 km
Modern Danish supermarket in Skørping Centret with fresh counters, local specialties and a strong wine selection – a practical one‑stop shop for travelers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Skørping Bodega
5.9 km
Down-to-earth local bodega in central Skørping, serving cold beers, simple drinks and small-town atmosphere from midday until late on weekends.
Loke's Ølstue
6.9 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.
Happy Friday
7.6 km
Cozy Støvring cocktail bar with crafted drinks, warm lighting and a Friday-night feeling any day of the week.
City Bar Støvring
8.6 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
8.8 km
Laid‑back neighborhood bar in small‑town Støvring, with a subtle motorbike vibe, simple drinks and a down‑to‑earth atmosphere on Viborgvej.
Rottehullet / Bodega
12.4 km
Laid‑back Danish bodega in quiet Arden, where cold beer, worn wood and easy conversation create a timeless neighborhood hangout.
Carsten fenger
13.2 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.
Center Pubben ApS
15.9 km
Cozy neighborhood pub in Terndrup Center, pouring cold beer, simple drinks and warm small-town atmosphere in a no-nonsense Danish bar setting.
Vognhjulet Pub
19.5 km
Hobro's legendary rock pub where authentic Danish hospitality meets decades of local tradition.
Torvebaren
19.7 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
19.8 km
A cozy, day‑time neighborhood bar-café in Hobro where locals linger over coffee, beer and small talk in an easygoing, homely atmosphere.
Bræddehytten Bar & Pub
20.0 km
Unpretentious local bar on Hobro’s main street, pouring cold beer and warm hygge in a classic Danish pub setting with friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Jazz Hobro
20.0 km
Northern Denmark's premier jazz venue, celebrating tradition and innovation through live performances.
Club 85@Nibe Festival
21.0 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.
Skotten
21.1 km
Aalborg's casual neighborhood bar for relaxed socializing and unwinding with friends
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
