Bølling Lake

A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.

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Bølling Lake

Bølling Lake is a sprawling 360-hectare shallow lake in central Jutland, Denmark, located between Engesvang and Kragelund near Silkeborg. Recreated in 2004–2005, this modern natural haven offers a 12-kilometre scenic walking loop, excellent pike fishing, swimming, and historical discovery points scattered along its shores. The lake's clear waters and peaceful woodland setting make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking relaxation and active recreation.

A brief summary to Bølling Lake

DK
Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

Wear comfortable athletic footwear for the full 12-kilometre circuit around the lake. The path is well-marked but requires sustained walking; allow 2–3 hours depending on pace and stops.
Visit during May to October for optimal pike fishing with surface lures, or in early summer for the best swimming conditions and minimal crowds.
Bring binoculars and a field guide for birdwatching, particularly during spring and autumn migration seasons when waterfowl populations peak.
If fishing, ensure you hold a valid national Danish fishing license; additional permits may be required depending on the specific area and fishing method.
Pack your own supplies including water and snacks, as on-site amenities are minimal; the peaceful setting rewards those who come prepared for self-sufficiency.

Getting There

Car from Silkeborg

Drive approximately 20 kilometres west from Silkeborg town centre toward Engesvang. Follow regional roads and GPS signposting to the lake's main parking areas. Journey time is approximately 25–30 minutes. Parking is available at multiple access points around the lake perimeter. This is the most convenient option for accessing the lake and its walking circuits.
Bicycle from Silkeborg

Cycle approximately 20 kilometres west from Silkeborg using regional cycling paths and quiet roads through the Lake District toward Engesvang. Journey time is approximately 60–90 minutes depending on fitness and route selection. The approach offers scenic views and connects to the broader regional cycling network. This option suits visitors based in Silkeborg or the surrounding area.
Regional Bus from Silkeborg

Public transport options are limited but regional bus services operate from Silkeborg toward Engesvang and surrounding villages. Journey time is approximately 45–60 minutes depending on service frequency and stops. Check local timetables in advance, as services may be infrequent. This option requires advance planning and is less convenient than private transport.
Guided Tour or Taxi from Silkeborg

Arrange a taxi or guided tour from Silkeborg, approximately 20 kilometres away. Estimated journey time is 25–30 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from 250–400 Danish kroner depending on exact pickup location and time of day. This option provides flexibility and door-to-door convenience without requiring vehicle rental.

Bølling Lake location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Bølling Lake

A Modern Lake Born from Restoration

Bølling Lake represents a remarkable environmental reclamation project in central Jutland. Originally drained in the 1870s for agricultural purposes, the lake was painstakingly recreated between 2004 and 2005, transforming the landscape back into a thriving aquatic ecosystem. Today, this 360-hectare body of shallow water stands as a testament to successful habitat restoration, with depths averaging 1.3 metres and a maximum depth of just 3 metres. The lake's relatively young age belies its ecological richness—despite being less than two decades old, it has rapidly become a vital natural resource for the region.

Glacial Heritage and Natural Setting

Bølling Lake occupies a landscape shaped by ancient ice ages. The surrounding terrain, formed during the Pleistocene glacier period roughly 10,000 years ago, creates a distinctive topography of gentle hills and forested valleys. The lake sits nestled between the parishes of Engesvang, Funder, and Kragelund, positioned slightly west of Silkeborg in the heart of Denmark's Lake District. This geological setting provides a naturally scenic backdrop, with the shallow waters reflecting the surrounding woodland and creating an atmosphere of serene natural beauty that draws visitors throughout the year.

A Paradise for Anglers and Water Enthusiasts

The lake has earned particular renown among fly fishermen and pike anglers. The shallow, reed-fringed waters create ideal conditions for wading and surface lure fishing, with pike populations thriving in the nutrient-rich environment. From May to October, anglers experience peak conditions using poppers and other surface lures, while the hard bottom composition in most areas provides excellent footing for waders. The northwestern section of the lake permits free fishing from the shore and non-motorised boats, while the Silkeborg Fisheries Association maintains a rowing boat available for members. Swimming is equally encouraged, with the clear waters offering refreshing immersion during warmer months.

Exploration and Recreation Around the Shoreline

The iconic 12-kilometre walking loop encircling the lake provides the primary recreational experience for most visitors. This well-marked circuit accommodates various fitness levels, passing through diverse landscapes of open water, reed beds, and forested sections. Along the route, historical discovery points offer interpretive information about the lake's restoration, local ecology, and cultural heritage. The walking path is generally accessible to families and casual walkers, though comfortable athletic footwear is recommended for the full circuit. Cycling represents another popular approach, with scenic paths connecting to the broader regional network around Silkeborg.

Wildlife and Ecological Significance

Despite its recent creation, Bølling Lake has become a significant habitat for birds and aquatic wildlife. The shallow waters, extensive reed margins, and surrounding forest create ideal conditions for waterfowl, wading birds, and fish populations. The lake's ecological recovery demonstrates how carefully managed restoration can rapidly restore biodiversity to degraded landscapes. Visitors frequently encounter diverse bird species, particularly during migration seasons, making the lake valuable for birdwatchers and nature photographers seeking to document the region's avian life.

Practical Access and Visitor Facilities

The lake benefits from good parking facilities and clear signposting, particularly from the Silkeborg direction. While public transport options remain limited in this rural area, the location is readily accessible by private vehicle or bicycle from surrounding towns. The relatively modest infrastructure reflects the lake's character as a natural recreation area rather than a developed tourist resort, encouraging visitors to come prepared with their own supplies while maintaining the peaceful, undeveloped atmosphere that defines its appeal.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Bølling Lake

0.0 km

A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.

Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten

9.4 km

A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.

Silkeborg Water Tower

10.8 km

A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.

silkeborg

11.1 km

Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.

Lovisehøj

13.4 km

A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.

Store Troldhøj

20.2 km

A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.

Himmelbjerget rutebåd

20.6 km

Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.

Herning Turist

20.8 km

Experience panoramic views of Vejle's landscapes from the accessible Udsigtstårn observation tower.

Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839

20.9 km

Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.

Ilva

20.9 km

Experience contemporary art in a repurposed 1950s vending machine at Vejle's innovative Kunsthal Vejle.

Bestig Himmelbjerget

20.9 km

Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Himmelbjerget, Denmark's iconic Sky Mountain in the heart of the Lake District, offering hiking, boat trips, and cultural experiences.

Dynæs voldsted

20.9 km

Medieval fortress ruin commanding Juulsø lake, where 14th-century power and water strategy converge.

H.C. Andersen bench

21.0 km

A literary memorial where Denmark's beloved fairy tale author found inspiration amid rolling hills and sparkling lakes.

Randershøj

21.2 km

A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.

Dollerup Bakker

21.7 km

Dokk1: Aarhus' award-winning cultural center blending modern architecture with community engagement.

Unmissable attractions to see

Vandskellet

1.0 km

Stand on Denmark’s quiet continental divide, where raindrops choose between the Skjern Å to the west and the Gudenå to the east in softly rolling farmland.

Murermester Rasmus Nielsens Mindesten

1.2 km

Discover modern art masterpieces, Danish expressionism, and international talent at the heart of Silkeborg’s creative scene in Jutland’s premier contemporary art gallery.

Klosterlund Museum

1.8 km

Stone Age artifacts and industrial heritage converge in a beautifully restored peat factory overlooking Lake Bølling.

Den mystiske troldesten

2.5 km

A mysterious stone formation within a woodland dog park, blending folklore, nature, and outdoor recreation.

Funder Ruin

7.3 km

A colossal Ice Age boulder quietly resting in the fields near Silkeborg, where ancient geology, rural calm and subtle Danish folklore meet in one modest landmark.

Scandic Silkeborg

8.6 km

Scandinavian comfort by the lake: a pool, forest paths and flexible spaces on Silkeborg’s tranquil green edge.

Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo

9.2 km

A towering recycled-wood troll by Thomas Dambo, hidden in Silkeborg’s lakeside forest, where fairytale art, playful exploration and peaceful nature meet.

Silkeborg Bunkermuseum

9.5 km

Step into an original German WWII bunker in Silkeborg and discover how a quiet Jutland hillside became the nerve centre of Denmark’s wartime occupation.

Silkeborg park

9.6 km

A tranquil sculpture‑studded green escape at Silkeborg Bad, where lakeside forest, gentle lawns and contemporary art meet on the edge of Denmark’s outdoor capital.

MOSES

9.6 km

Discover leading Danish and international contemporary art in the heart of Silkeborg, with exhibitions, events, and a welcoming, creative atmosphere at Galerie Moderne.

Silkebog skulpturpark

9.6 km

A quiet corner of Silkeborg where contemporary sculptures and woodland paths blend into an open-air gallery, inviting slow walks, reflection and relaxed art encounters.

Art Center

9.6 km

Contemporary art and nature converge in a historic health resort transformed into Denmark's most distinctive sculpture park experience.

Knagerne Silkeborg

10.5 km

A small, protected pocket of old-growth woodland in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where crooked beeches, fallen trunks and deep quiet create an evocative forest escape.

Galerie Moderne Silkeborg

10.6 km

One of Scandinavia’s largest modern art galleries, blending CoBrA masterpieces, contemporary works and a welcoming, free-to-enter space in central Silkeborg.

Badeanstalten

10.6 km

Denmark's most authentic bathhouse—a historic Nordic wellness sanctuary preserving centuries of bathing tradition.

Mediterranean-inspired social dining, wine and cocktails in a cosy Silkeborg townhouse with a lively bar and atmospheric courtyard terrace.

Welcoming women’s fashion boutique in central Silkeborg, specialising in quality jeans, flattering fits and personal styling in a calm, uncluttered setting.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Marquart Anita

6.8 km

Unpretentious local bar in Bording, serving cold beers, simple drinks and plenty of small-town Danish atmosphere under the watchful eye of host Anita Marquart.

Kaptajnens Slyngelstue

9.1 km

An old-school Danish bodega in Silkeborg where cold beer, warm banter and a hint of maritime mischief create the captain’s cosiest neighbourhood hideout.

Woodys Aps

9.9 km

Experience the warm ambiance and diverse drinks at Woodys Aps, a central bar in Silkeborg.

Butchers Silkeborg

10.5 km

Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.

Bifrost Sports Pub

10.5 km

Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.

Kings Pub

10.5 km

Straightforward local bar on Borgergade in Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and a relaxed, sociable pub atmosphere from daytime into late evening.

Rabalder Bar

10.5 km

Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.

The bar Silkeborg ApS

10.6 km

Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.

Kaffebaren

10.6 km

Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.

Zwei Grosse Bier Bar

10.6 km

Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.

Sportspubben Målet

10.7 km

A cozy, no-frills sports pub in central Silkeborg, where big screens, cold beer and local chatter turn every match day into a shared living room.

Roxy Malt

10.7 km

Irish-inspired Silkeborg pub with live music, quizzes, speciality beers and a cosy courtyard, blending retro charm with late-night energy in the town centre.

Bodega Hjørnet

10.8 km

A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.

Café Kling Klang

10.8 km

Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.

The Admiral Pub

10.9 km

Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.

Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.

Jazzens Venner

43.4 km

Experience live jazz performances in Randers' intimate and vibrant Jazzens Venner club.

Scandic Opus Horsens

44.1 km

A contemporary Scandinavian hotel in Horsens with spa, dining, and panoramic city-to-nature views—an elegant gateway to both urban and outdoor experiences.

Sölibat Natklub

45.3 km

Late-night, no-frills clubbing in central Horsens, where loud music, simple drinks and a compact dance floor create an unapologetically local party vibe.

Hemingway's Horsens

45.4 km

Late-night disco bar in central Horsens with a mature crowd, classic hits from past decades and a cozy-but-lively atmosphere every Friday and Saturday.

Morzybitten

45.4 km

Experience the essence of Danish 'hygge' at Morzybitten, Horsens' premier barista and beer bar with live music.

Kokomo Horsens

45.5 km

Three floors of colorful cocktails, big beats and tropical nightclub energy at the heart of Horsens’ weekend nightlife.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Bølling Lake

A brief summary to Bølling Lake

Local tips

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

Getting There

Car from Silkeborg

Bicycle from Silkeborg

Regional Bus from Silkeborg

Guided Tour or Taxi from Silkeborg

Bølling Lake location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Bølling Lake

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Bølling Lake

A Modern Lake Born from Restoration

Glacial Heritage and Natural Setting

A Paradise for Anglers and Water Enthusiasts

Exploration and Recreation Around the Shoreline

Wildlife and Ecological Significance

Practical Access and Visitor Facilities

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Bølling Lake

Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten

Silkeborg Water Tower

silkeborg

Lovisehøj

Store Troldhøj

Himmelbjerget rutebåd

Herning Turist

Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839

Ilva

Bestig Himmelbjerget

Dynæs voldsted

H.C. Andersen bench

Randershøj

Dollerup Bakker

Unmissable attractions to see

Vandskellet

Murermester Rasmus Nielsens Mindesten

Klosterlund Museum

Den mystiske troldesten

Funder Ruin

Scandic Silkeborg

Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo

Silkeborg Bunkermuseum

Silkeborg park

MOSES

Silkebog skulpturpark

Art Center

Knagerne Silkeborg

Galerie Moderne Silkeborg

Badeanstalten

Essential places to dine

Burger Beast Silkeborg

Gusto Silkeborg

Sabel - Restaurant og Bar

Green Habits

Flamingo Pizza V/Aydin Wahab

Okkels Silkeborg ApS

VIVI Mad- & Vinbar

Restaurant Piaf

Restaurant Spyd

Cafe K Silkeborg

Joci Sushi

Four Hands Restaurant

Hot Inn

Marco Polo - Silkeborg

BABBA

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Hjemmebryggeren v/Ken Gade Thøgersen

SHOPPE LOPPE

Special-butikken Rask A/S

Papirvarer

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Læsehesten Silkeborg

Børnenes Kartel Silkeborg

Boemo

Mr Silkeborg A / S

KiDS Coolshop Silkeborg