Falkecenter Samsø

High‑speed falcons, soaring eagles and silent owls in a one‑hour open‑air show that brings the ancient art of falconry to life on the island of Samsø.

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Falkecenter Samsø ApS

Falkecenter Samsø is a dedicated birds‑of‑prey center on the Danish island of Samsø, where falcons, eagles, hawks and owls take center stage in one‑hour flying demonstrations held in an open‑air arena. From Easter to autumn, professional falconers showcase the birds’ speed, power and precision just meters above the audience, blending natural history, conservation messages and storytelling. Indoors, a flight hall and small café/shop round out an experience that appeals to both children and adults.

A brief summary to Falkecenter Samsø ApS

Eskevej 4, Samsø Municipality, 8305, DK
+4550889380
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Tuesday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
Thursday 10:30 am-12:30 pm
Saturday 1:30 pm-3:30 pm
Sunday 10:30 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

Arrive at least 30 minutes before the listed show time so you catch the introduction and are seated before the doors close for the performance.
Dress in layers and bring windproof outerwear; shows are primarily outdoors on benches, and Samsø’s coastal weather can feel cooler than expected.
Budget extra for experiences such as holding a bird or the Ørnesus session if you want a close‑up encounter beyond the standard ticket.
Check seasonal opening dates in advance; regular shows run mainly from Easter to the autumn holidays, with limited off‑season days.
If you are sensitive to noise, consider bringing light ear protection for children; eagles and falcons can fly very close and the reactions in the arena can be loud.

Getting There

Ferry and car from Jutland (Hou–Samsø)

From the port of Hou in East Jutland, take the passenger and car ferry to Sælvig on Samsø; the crossing typically takes about 1 hour. Standard one‑way fares for a car with driver are generally in the range of 250–450 DKK, with additional charges for passengers. Once on Samsø, driving from Sælvig across the island’s main roads to the center near Pillemark usually takes 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic and seasonal conditions. Parking is available by the center during show times, but it can feel busy on peak holiday dates.
Ferry and car from Zealand (Kalundborg–Samsø)

From Kalundborg on Zealand, board the ferry to Ballen on Samsø; the sea journey is commonly around 1 hour and 30 minutes. A one‑way ticket for a car and driver is typically in the region of 300–500 DKK, with separate fares for additional passengers. After arrival in Ballen, the drive inland through the central part of the island to the center usually takes 15–20 minutes on paved country roads. During summer holidays and on weekends, it is advisable to book ferry space in advance, as popular departures can sell out.
Island bus and short walk on Samsø

If you arrive on Samsø without a car, you can use the island’s local bus services that connect ports such as Sælvig and Ballen with central villages. Journey times to the Pillemark area are typically 20–35 minutes, depending on the route and time of day. A single ticket on the island bus often costs around 20–40 DKK per adult, with discounts for children. Services run more frequently in the main season and more sparsely outside school holidays, so checking current timetables is important. From the nearest bus stop you should expect a short walk along rural roads to reach the center, on mainly level but unshaded terrain.
Cycling across Samsø

Samsø is well suited to cycling, with modest hills and relatively quiet roads. Renting a bicycle in ports such as Ballen or Sælvig and riding to the center typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on your starting point, route and fitness level. Daily rental rates for standard bicycles are usually in the range of 100–200 DKK. The route involves stretches of open countryside where wind can be a factor, and there is limited shelter from rain. Good lights and reflective gear are recommended if you plan journeys outside daylight hours.

Falkecenter Samsø ApS location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Cold Weather
Windy Conditions

Discover more about Falkecenter Samsø ApS

Island arena for eagles, falcons and owls

Falkecenter Samsø sits amid the rolling fields near Pillemark on Samsø, an island already known for its landscapes and tranquil pace of life. Here the focus is on birds of prey: large eagles, agile falcons, watchful hawks and charismatic owls. The heart of the center is an outdoor arena where tiered benches face a broad grass field sloping out towards the characteristic Samsø hills, creating a natural backdrop for the flying displays. Because the center opens only around scheduled shows, each visit feels like arriving for a performance rather than dropping into a conventional zoo. Doors open about half an hour before the start, with an introduction shortly before the main display. Once the show begins, the outside world fades and attention turns to wings overhead, leather gloves and the clear calls of the falconers.

The thrill of a one‑hour flight demonstration

The main program lasts around an hour and is designed for all ages. You sit on simple wooden benches while the falconers introduce each bird, explaining how it hunts, what it eats and how it survives in the wild. Falcons shoot skyward and then stoop towards the ground in dramatic high‑speed dives. Eagles sweep low over the arena, their wings casting brief shadows as they pass close to the audience. Owls arrive almost silently, appearing beside you before you have time to register their flight. The demonstrations combine showmanship with education. Between flights you learn about migration, training techniques and the relationship between humans and birds of prey through history. On windy days the birds exploit the gusts rolling over the island; in poor weather the action moves into the covered flight hall so the experience can continue under shelter.

Hands‑on encounters and special experiences

For many visitors, the highlight comes after the main show. Once the formal display ends, there is unhurried time for questions, photographs and closer encounters. For an additional fee you can try holding a bird of prey or an owl on a gloved hand, supervised closely by the falconers. Feeling the weight of the bird and its grip on the glove gives a direct sense of its strength that you cannot get from a seat in the stands. Those seeking a more intensive experience can book the "Ørnesus" session, standing in the arena while a trained bird repeatedly flies to the glove several times. The center also runs a dedicated falconer school on selected dates, particularly aimed at children and school groups, where participants help prepare food, learn basic handling and fly some of the birds themselves within a structured, safety‑focused program.

Seasonal rhythm and practical character

The center follows a strongly seasonal rhythm, with most regular shows scheduled from Easter through the autumn holidays, supplemented by selected winter dates. The site itself is compact and practical rather than landscaped, built around functionality for the birds and clear views for visitors. Paths are short and mostly level, and the arena seating is straightforward and family‑friendly. A small café and shop open during show times, offering simple refreshments and bird‑themed souvenirs. Tickets can be bought on arrival or in advance, with discounted combinations for families and reduced prices for children, students and seniors. Because everyone needs to be checked in before the doors close for the show, arriving in good time is part of the experience and helps preserve the focused, theatre‑like atmosphere once the performance begins.

Education, conservation and the Samsø landscape

Although the flying displays provide the drama, much of the center’s purpose lies in sharing knowledge about raptors and their habitats. Presentations highlight the importance of protecting nesting sites, managing landscapes for wildlife and understanding how modern threats such as traffic and environmental change affect these birds. The surrounding Samsø scenery, with open farmland and low hills, underlines the connection between the show and the wider environment in which many of these species live. For travelers exploring Samsø, a visit here adds a contrasting layer to coastal walks and village visits: an hour of concentrated action and storytelling, framed by the cries of birds and the sweep of wings. It works as a standalone highlight on a day‑trip to the island or as part of a longer stay, especially for families and anyone curious about the ancient craft of falconry.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Samsø Sogn

2.5 km

A modest whitewashed parish in Tranebjerg where Samsø’s island history, everyday rituals and quiet faith meet along bustling Langgade.

Ilsemade Helligkilde

3.8 km

A Bronze Age sacred spring where fresh water flows from an ancient hollow oak, connecting modern visitors to 3,000 years of spiritual tradition.

The small Summer Hotel

3.8 km

Experience authentic Danish seaside charm at The Small Summer Hotel in Ballen, Samsø, offering cozy accommodations and a perfect base for exploring the island's natural beauty and vibrant culture.

Ballen Strandpark - Ferielejligheder og feriehus

4.0 km

Experience coastal bliss at Ballen Strandpark on Samsø: stunning sea views, direct beach access, and charming apartments near Ballen harbor, perfect for a relaxing island getaway.

Ballen Strandpark - Ferielejligheder og feriehus

Hotel Vadstrup1771

4.1 km

Experience the tranquil charm of Hotel Vadstrup1771, a perfect retreat in the heart of Samsø, blending comfort with local culinary delights.

The Kanhave Canal

10.7 km

A 1,300-year-old Viking shortcut carved across an island to control Denmark's seas.

Restaurant Mårup Havn

14.0 km

Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning harbor views at Restaurant Mårup Havn, a culinary gem on the scenic island of Samsø, Denmark.

Oasen Samsø

15.8 km

Discover tranquility and island charm at Oasen Samsø, a unique retreat offering comfortable accommodations, natural beauty, and a rich cultural experience on Denmark's sustainable island.

Mindesten - Morten Madsen

17.8 km

A modest memorial stone set in Samsø’s quiet countryside, offering a brief, reflective pause amid open fields, island sky and centuries of local history.

Landmarket Horsedalen

26.7 km

Rare flora and exceptional light in a protected Danish valley.

Befrielsessten i Kallerup

31.2 km

A solemn Danish liberation memorial honoring the end of Nazi occupation in May 1945.

Enebærodde

32.0 km

A pristine coastal peninsula where Denmark's largest heath meets the fjord—nature in its purest form.

Danhostel Kalundborg

34.6 km

Experience the vibrant heart of Helsingborg at Sundstorget, where culture, dining, and shopping converge in a picturesque square.

Our Lady Church

34.9 km

A medieval masterpiece with five towers symbolizing the Heavenly Jerusalem—architecturally unique and spiritually profound.

The eltest city hall

35.0 km

A modest medieval town hall in Kalundborg’s Højbyen, where centuries of local power, trade and everyday life still echo in cobbled streets and weathered walls.

Unmissable attractions to see

Dansebjerg

1.7 km

Creative hilltop retreat on Samsø with wide Kattegat views, flexible communal spaces and a calm, homely atmosphere made for groups, workshops and slow island days.

Brundby Stubmølle

2.1 km

One of Denmark’s oldest post mills, Brundby Stubmølle pairs centuries-old milling history with wide Samsø views from a peaceful hill just above the village.

Samsø Island Distillery

2.5 km

Craft spirits infused with island heritage—where juniper, potatoes, and orange ants tell Samsø's story.

Samsø Museum

2.6 km

Distributed cultural museum exploring 16,000 years of Samsø's landscape, heritage, and human connection to nature.

Husmandsstedet Fredensdal

2.6 km

An intimate Samsø smallholder’s farm where thatched roofs, animals and kitchen gardens bring Denmark’s rural past to life in a single charming homestead.

Samsø Badehotel

3.3 km

Luxury seaside retreat blending Danish bathhouse tradition with contemporary comfort and celebrated cuisine.

Samsø Badehotel Ilse Made

3.4 km

Nordic luxury meets coastal serenity on Samsø's quietest shore, where exceptional food and genuine hospitality define every moment.

Samsø Egnsarkiv

3.9 km

Samsø's historical archive preserving centuries of island records and family heritage.

Strandlyst - Hotel

4.1 km

Intimate Nordic island hideaway with design-led rooms, seasonal dining and a tranquil pool garden near Ballen on Samsø’s gentle coastline.

Tidselkorridoren

4.2 km

A winding botanical art corridor celebrating Samsø's wildflowers and native plants.

Festivalpladsen

4.4 km

Open-air festival grounds at the edge of forest and fields, where quiet island scenery transforms into a cozy Danish music celebration each summer.

Vesborg Fyr

5.0 km

Historic lighthouse on Samsø’s southwestern tip, blending medieval ramparts, sweeping sea views and classic Danish coastal atmosphere in one compact headland.

Samsø Rederi

6.0 km

The green-hearted ferry link between Samsø and Jutland, turning a one-hour crossing into the relaxed first chapter of your island escape.

Stakladen Besser

6.8 km

A rustic island barn transformed into a light-filled gallery, with weekly changing art and craft exhibitions in the heart of Besser on Samsø.

Besser Udsigtstårn

7.1 km

A modest island lookout tower on the ruins of an old mill, offering wide Samsø panoramas, quiet rural atmosphere and glimpses of distant Kalundborg on clear days.

Essential places to dine

ØbyUS

0.7 km

A cozy Samsø farmhouse café and design shop where slow coffee, local flavors and Nordic interiors come together in the tiny village of Permelille.

rumogrooms.dk - Hotel og Madhus Rumogrooms

1.6 km

Bright Nordic rooms and a seasonal madhus in a quiet Samsø village, blending minimalist design, local flavours and island calm in an intimate hotel setting.

rumogrooms.dk - Hotel og Madhus Rumogrooms

Flinchs Hotel

2.5 km

Historic 1885 town hotel in Tranebjerg with local-produce restaurant, leafy courtyard and a central base for exploring Samsø’s landscapes and coastline.

Carlo's Corner

2.5 km

Cosy Samsø wine shop and smørrebrød hideaway where generous open sandwiches, characterful bottles and relaxed village charm meet on Langgade.

Samsø Madhus

2.6 km

Island produce, homely Danish cooking and simple rooms come together at Samsø Madhus, a cosy food house in Tranebjerg at the heart of Samsø.

Den Gule Parasol

2.6 km

Sunny, laid-back café-restaurant in Tranebjerg serving tapas, sandwiches and coffee, perfect for a relaxed lunch stop amid Samsø’s village life.

Samsø Madsnedkeri

2.7 km

Inventive island cooking and handmade Samsø specialties served in a converted farm stable at the culinary heart of Tranebjerg.

Molevitten

3.8 km

Lively Samsø hangout in Ballen mixing local-produce dinners, a friendly bar and live music, where islanders and visitors share long evenings by the harbour.

Pizzeria Maya

3.8 km

Cozy island pizzeria in Ballen serving creative stone‑baked pizzas, pastas and wine in a relaxed, harbor‑side setting on Denmark’s vegetable‑rich Samsø.

I Haven Bistro

3.8 km

Cosy Samsø bistro in Ballen’s holiday heart, serving relaxed, seasonal comfort food a short stroll from the harbour and sandy beaches.

Don Juan Restaurant & Pizzaria

3.9 km

Relaxed Italian comfort food and takeaway favourite in Tranebjerg, serving stone‑baked pizzas, pastas, meat and fish dishes after long Samsø days outdoors.

Ballen Badehotel

3.9 km

Classic Danish seaside hotel on Samsø, blending nostalgic bath-hotel charm, local gastronomy and harbor life just steps from the marina and beach.

Den Gamle Butik

3.9 km

Cozy harbor dining with award-winning local beef, island potatoes, and an exceptional wine cellar on Samsø.

Restaurant Skipperly I/S

4.0 km

Island harbor dining where local ingredients and Nordic tradition meet genuine warmth and refined technique.

Restaurant Dokken

4.0 km

Harbourfront restaurant in Ballen blending Samsø’s maritime shipyard heritage, local Danish classics and lively summer terrace vibes right on the water’s edge.

Cosy Samsø clothing boutique offering friendly, personal service and a practical yet stylish mix of clothes, shoes and accessories in Tranebjerg’s main street.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Vinkapellet Samsø

1.9 km

Cosy island wine bar in Brundby specialising in organic, biodynamic and natural wines, where intimate surroundings and slow Samsø evenings invite lingering conversations.

Ræven

2.6 km

Rural Samsø bar and eatery with relaxed island vibes, simple hearty fare, and late-week pub energy in a low-key farmhouse-style setting.

rullen

4.4 km

Casual festival bar in the heart of Samsø Festival, where cold drinks, sea air and relaxed island vibes create a warm pause between concerts.

Garagen

4.5 km

Laid-back island bar in the woods of Strandskoven, blending rustic charm, simple drinks and live music with the easy coastal rhythm of Samsø.

Samsø Bryghus

17.0 km

Organic farm brewery and countryside café on Samsø, serving house beers and field‑fresh dishes in a relaxed courtyard of converted farm buildings.

Kalundborg Jazzclub

35.1 km

Intimate volunteer-run blues and jazz club in central Kalundborg, keeping a 1960s live music legacy alive with close-up concerts and warm community spirit.

Cafe Lillebælt

35.2 km

Cozy Kalundborg café-bar blending everyday Danish hygge, simple comfort food and drinks, and a neighborhood atmosphere a short stroll from the harbor.

Kontoret

35.3 km

Kalundborg's inclusive waterfront bar where locals and visitors gather for drinks, food, and genuine social connection.

King's Pub

35.3 km

Traditional small-town pub on Kalundborg’s main street, serving straightforward drinks, local character and unpretentious evening atmosphere.

Slotskældergården

35.6 km

Unpretentious Danish bar on Kalundborg’s main street, offering cold beer, warm light and a glimpse of everyday local life along Kordilgade.

Shooters

35.7 km

Kalundborg’s lively bar and disco club serving up music, drinks, and authentic small-town Danish nightlife on weekends.

Next Door Pool Bar

35.7 km

Casual pool and sports bar on Kalundborg’s Kordilgade, mixing easygoing drinks, live games on screen and friendly competition around the pool tables.

Solbjerg Bodega

40.1 km

Authentic Danish bodega with extended hours and genuine local atmosphere in North Jutland.

Fuglsøcentret

41.5 km

Fuglsøcentret blends functional Danish hospitality and a unique event vibe with direct access to Mols Bjerge National Park’s wild landscapes and trails.

Umage Ølbar

42.8 km

Craft beer bar in Ebeltoft with 14 taps, 50+ bottled beers, and comfort food.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Falkecenter Samsø

A brief summary to Falkecenter Samsø ApS

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Ferry and car from Jutland (Hou–Samsø)

Ferry and car from Zealand (Kalundborg–Samsø)

Island bus and short walk on Samsø

Cycling across Samsø

Falkecenter Samsø ApS location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Falkecenter Samsø ApS

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Falkecenter Samsø ApS

Island arena for eagles, falcons and owls

The thrill of a one‑hour flight demonstration

Hands‑on encounters and special experiences

Seasonal rhythm and practical character

Education, conservation and the Samsø landscape

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Samsø Sogn

Ilsemade Helligkilde

The small Summer Hotel

Ballen Strandpark - Ferielejligheder og feriehus

Hotel Vadstrup1771

The Kanhave Canal

Restaurant Mårup Havn

Oasen Samsø

Mindesten - Morten Madsen

Landmarket Horsedalen

Befrielsessten i Kallerup

Enebærodde

Danhostel Kalundborg

Our Lady Church

The eltest city hall

Unmissable attractions to see

Dansebjerg

Brundby Stubmølle

Samsø Island Distillery

Samsø Museum

Husmandsstedet Fredensdal

Samsø Badehotel

Samsø Badehotel Ilse Made

Samsø Egnsarkiv

Strandlyst - Hotel

Tidselkorridoren

Festivalpladsen

Vesborg Fyr

Samsø Rederi

Stakladen Besser

Besser Udsigtstårn

Essential places to dine

ØbyUS

rumogrooms.dk - Hotel og Madhus Rumogrooms

Flinchs Hotel

Carlo's Corner

Samsø Madhus

Den Gule Parasol

Samsø Madsnedkeri

Molevitten

Pizzeria Maya

I Haven Bistro

Don Juan Restaurant & Pizzaria

Ballen Badehotel

Den Gamle Butik

Restaurant Skipperly I/S

Restaurant Dokken

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Samsø Gårdbutik Svanegården

Huge Market on the island

Duften af Samsø

Eskehus Samsø

MoltkeDesign

SuperBrugsen

Ny Form Samsø

Store island oen.dk

DanChurchSocial Op Shop

Hobbyboden Scrapworld – Din onlline hobby butik indenfor scrapbooking, kort og mixed media

Buur - Items & Clothing - Coffee