Himmelbjergtårnet
Historic hilltop tower above the Silkeborg Lakes, blending big Jutland views, democratic heritage and easy woodland walks in one classic Danish nature outing.
Rising from the forested slopes of Himmelbjerget near Ry, Himmelbjergtårnet is a 25 m brick memorial tower crowning one of Denmark’s most storied high points. Built in the late 19th century to honor the nation’s constitution and democratic movement, it offers sweeping views across Julsø and the Silkeborg Lakes. Easy paths, woodland trails, a playground and kiosks make this hilltop lookout a classic Danish nature outing for all ages.
A brief summary to Himmelbjergtårnet
- Himmelbjergvej 20, Ry, 8680, DK
- +4586898451
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring a windproof layer; the hilltop and tower platform can feel noticeably cooler and breezier than the forested approach, even on sunny days.
- Carry coins or a payment card for the small fee to climb the tower when staffed, as access to the interior is not included in general hilltop access.
- If you prefer quieter moments, plan your visit early in the morning or outside school holidays, when trails and viewpoints are more tranquil.
- Combine the summit with a longer loop walk down toward Julsø and back through the forest to experience both the high views and shoreline atmosphere.
- Footwear with good grip is recommended, especially if you intend to explore the steeper forest paths, which can be slick in wet weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Regional train and bus from Aarhus
From Aarhus, take a regional train toward Skanderborg and Ry; the journey to Ry typically takes around 35–45 minutes. From Ry station, continue by local bus toward Himmelbjerget, with a ride of about 15–25 minutes depending on the service. Combined fares for train and bus usually fall in the range of 60–110 DKK one way per adult, depending on ticket type and discounts. Services are generally more frequent on weekdays and daytime hours; evening and weekend departures can be less regular, so checking timetables in advance is important.
-
Car from Silkeborg and Skanderborg area
Driving from Silkeborg or Skanderborg to Himmelbjergtårnet typically takes 20–35 minutes, following regional roads through forest and countryside. Near the summit there is a designated parking area where payment is commonly required during main visiting hours, with typical fees around 10–20 DKK for the first hour and an additional small amount per extra hour. Spaces can fill up in peak holiday periods and on sunny weekends, and some sections of the approach roads are narrow and winding, so cautious driving is advisable.
-
Train to Silkeborg and bus connection
Travelers coming from other parts of Jutland can often reach Silkeborg first by regional train, with journey times from nearby towns ranging between 20 and 60 minutes. From Silkeborg, a local bus runs toward the Himmelbjerget area, usually taking about 25–35 minutes depending on the route. A combined train and bus trip commonly costs in the region of 50–110 DKK one way per adult, varying with distance and ticket choice. Bus frequency is reduced in the late evening and on some weekends, so aligning connections is important for a smooth journey.
Himmelbjergtårnet location weather suitability
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Any Weather
-
Cold Weather
-
Hot Weather
Discover more about Himmelbjergtårnet
A historic tower on a legendary Danish “mountain”
Himmelbjergtårnet crowns the top of Himmelbjerget, the famous hill that once held the title of Denmark’s highest point. The red-brick tower rises 25 m above the summit, turning a modest elevation into a striking national landmark. Its stepped silhouette and decorative brickwork stand out above the treeline, visible as you approach through the beech forest. The tower was erected in the late 1800s as a memorial to the Danish constitution and the democratic ideals that reshaped the country. Inscriptions and plaques around the base commemorate key figures and moments in that story, giving this quiet hilltop a distinctly ceremonial character. Standing here links a simple nature excursion with an important chapter of national history.Views over lakes, forest and rolling Jutland hills
From the plateau around the tower, the panorama takes in Julsø and the gently undulating Silkeborg Lakes, edged by dense woodland and scattered hilltops. On clear days, the water shimmers with boats and ferries, while forest paths trace the shoreline far below. The scene changes with the seasons: fresh green in spring, deep shade in summer, flaming colors in autumn and a stark, open feel in winter. For an even broader outlook, you can climb the interior steps of the tower when it is open, adding its height to the natural elevation. The result is a surprisingly expansive view for a country better known for flat fields than lofty peaks. Soft wind, bird calls from the forest and the distant sound of activity on the lake complete the sense of being lifted above everyday life.Woodland walks, playgrounds and picnic spots
Himmelbjergtårnet is surrounded by a network of forest trails ranging from gentle strolls to steeper paths leading down toward the lakeshore. Beech and conifer trees frame glimpses of water as you descend, and the terrain provides just enough variation to feel like a small adventure without becoming strenuous. Signposts and clear paths help keep the area accessible to most visitors. Near the main approach you find an adventurous playground, open grassy areas and simple picnic spots that make this a relaxed destination for families. Kiosks and small stands often sell snacks, ice cream and souvenirs in the busier months, while benches allow you to sit and enjoy the view without rushing. This combination of nature, play and light amenities gives the hilltop the atmosphere of a classic Danish outing.A symbolic gathering place in the heart of Jutland
Beyond its physical presence, Himmelbjergtårnet has long served as a symbolic gathering point. The hill has hosted assemblies, speeches and celebrations connected to national identity and democratic values. Memorial stones scattered around the area recall events and individuals associated with those traditions, turning a walk among trees into a quiet open-air gallery of political and cultural history. At the same time, the setting remains informal and welcoming. Dogs on leads, children running between trees and hikers arriving from longer routes all share the same modest summit. The tower stands above them as a fixed point in a landscape that feels both everyday and significant at once.Planning your visit to the summit
Himmelbjergtårnet is typically accessible during daylight hours, with the interior tower access often operating on simple daytime opening times and a small admission fee when staffed. The surrounding hilltop area itself is open, allowing you to enjoy the panorama even if the tower is closed. Paths range from relatively smooth tracks near the top to steeper, more uneven sections further down the slopes. A visit can be as short as a quick viewpoint stop or stretched into a half-day of forest walking and lakeside exploration. With its blend of scenery, history and light facilities, Himmelbjergtårnet works equally well as a stand-alone excursion from nearby towns or as a stop on a broader journey through Jutland’s inland lake district.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
0.2 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
0.5 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Lovisehøj
7.9 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Water Tower
10.7 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
10.9 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Randershøj
11.3 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
11.3 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Silkeborg Rovfugleshow
11.3 km
Experience the thrill of birds of prey in action at Silkeborg Rovfugleshow, a captivating nature preserve offering breathtaking aerial displays and educational insights into the avian world.
Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo
11.5 km
A colossal wooden troll crafted from recycled materials—where art, nature, and Nordic folklore converge near Silkeborg's serene lake.
Store Troldhøj
12.4 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Landal Søhøjlandet
12.8 km
Escape to Landal Søhøjlandet in Denmark's Lake District: Family fun, water park thrills, outdoor adventures, and tranquil nature await in this scenic holiday paradise near Silkeborg.
Funder Ruin
13.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of history and modern life at Stændertorvet, Roskilde's central square.
Yding Skovhøj
13.7 km
Discover Yding Skovhøj, one of Denmark's highest points, offering scenic hiking trails, ancient burial mounds, and panoramic views in the heart of Jutland's beautiful lake district.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
14.0 km
Discover Denmark's automotive history at Jutland's Automobile Museum in Gjern, showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles from the early 1900s to iconic post-war models, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's motoring heritage.
The Uncovered Bridge
14.7 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Himmelbjerget
0.0 km
Iconic Danish “mountain” above the Silkeborg lakes, blending sweeping forest-and-lake views with constitutional history, forest trails and classic excursion life.
Bestig Himmelbjerget
0.3 km
Follow a classic forest trail from lakeshore to the summit of Denmark’s fabled Sky Mountain, combining gentle ascent, big views and layers of national history.
H.C. Andersen bench
0.4 km
Discover Råbjerg Mile, Northern Europe’s largest migrating sand dune—a stunning, ever-shifting landscape near Skagen, perfect for exploration and breathtaking views.
Turbådene Himmelbjerget
0.5 km
Classic excursion boats carrying you from lakeside Ry through serene Søhøjlandet to the foot of Denmark’s famed Himmelbjerget for views, walks and fresh air.
Dynæs voldsted
1.8 km
Quiet medieval castle mounds and deep ditches on a wooded peninsula in the Silkeborg Lakes, where earthworks, water and forest hint at a vanished stronghold.
Gammelkol
2.3 km
A modest historic site folded into Silkeborg’s forests, where quiet paths, subtle landforms and shifting light reveal the long story of Denmark’s lake country.
FDF Outdoor Center Sletten
2.8 km
Denmark's premier outdoor recreation hub where free activities, mountain biking, and nature immersion meet modern comfort.
Himmelbjergegnens Tårnhøje Tårn
2.9 km
Historic hilltop tower above Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests, blending Denmark’s constitutional story with sweeping Jutland views and atmospheric woodland paths.
Maskenkol
3.8 km
A quiet stretch of Knudsø’s northern shore, Maskenkol offers gentle lakeside walking, open views and everyday Danish nature just beyond the town of Ry.
Høgdal
4.3 km
An 18th-century hilltop farm near Silkeborg, preserved as a living window into Danish rural life amid the soft landscapes of the Søhøjlandet lake district.
Ry havn
4.4 km
Quiet lakeside marina in Ry, offering relaxed waterfront life, boat trips into the Silkeborg Lakes and easy access to the gentle hills of Denmark’s lake district.
Kallehave bålhytte
4.6 km
A modest grill shelter tucked into the Kallehave woods near Gl. Rye, perfect for unhurried campfire cooking and a quiet break on forest hikes.
Kongestolen
4.8 km
A compact forest summit above Slåensø, Kongestolen pairs a short, steep climb with far‑reaching lake and woodland views in the heart of the Silkeborg hills.
Knudhule strand
6.2 km
Blue Flag lakeside escape near Ry, offering child‑friendly swimming, gentle views over Knudsø and a relaxed, low‑key setting in the hills of Søhøjlandet.
Labyrinthia
6.8 km
A countryside maze and puzzle park near Them, where 3D labyrinths, water mazes, dog-friendly challenges, and an indoor Puzzle Center turn getting lost into pure family fun.
Essential places to dine
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
0.3 km
Casual hilltop cafeteria at Himmelbjerget, serving classic Danish comfort food and ice cream with wide views over the Silkeborg lakes and surrounding forests.
Café Himmelsk
1.0 km
Homemade pastries and mountain views in Denmark's legendary lake district.
Lyng Dal Hotel og Restaurant
3.5 km
Intimate family-run hotel and seasonal restaurant in Ry, where garden-driven Danish cuisine, good wine and quiet countryside surroundings create a cosy Jutland escape.
Restaurant Aalekroen
3.7 km
Classic Danish kro-style restaurant on the shores of Julsø, pairing hearty traditional dishes and fried eel with sweeping lakeside views near Silkeborg.
Traktørstedet Ludvigslyst
3.9 km
Organic lakeside dining in a light-filled country villa above Lake Julsø, where local ingredients, house-baked bread and garden herbs define every seasonal plate.
Lakeside Ry - Restaurant
4.5 km
Intimate waterfront dining blending Nordic tradition with global innovation in Denmark's Lake District.
Brasseri Ry'tteriet
4.7 km
Intimate hotel brasserie in lakeside Ry, pairing French‑inspired comfort food, seasonal Danish ingredients and candlelit evening ambience in the heart of Søhøjlandet.
Ry Gastropub
4.7 km
Relaxed gastropub heart of Ry, serving comforting pub favourites, modern Danish flavours and easygoing drinks in a warm, social setting from lunch to late evening.
Hotel Ry
4.7 km
Contemporary comfort in Denmark's scenic heartland, where golf, hiking, and local gastronomy meet.
Restaurant Da Angelo
4.8 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Ry's charming lakeside town center.
Byens Kylling & Pizza Ry
4.8 km
Casual neighborhood pizza and chicken takeaway in Ry, serving hearty portions and familiar flavors for easy, budget‑friendly dinners after a day outdoors.
KobKun
4.8 km
Tiny Thai kitchen in the heart of Ry, serving fragrant curries and stir-fries in an intimate 13-seat space with a strong local takeaway following.
Umisushi
4.9 km
Neighbourhood sushi and takeaway in the lakeside town of Ry, serving fresh rolls and casual Japanese favourites in a relaxed, modern setting.
Restaurant Gastronomisk Institut
6.2 km
Seasonal Danish–French cooking, a serious wine cellar and wide lake views come together at this refined yet relaxed restaurant inside Knudhule Badehotel.
Knudhule Badehotel og Gastronomisk Institut
6.2 km
Award-winning lakeside hotel and fine dining destination in Denmark's scenic Søhøjlandet region.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ørneboden
0.2 km
Small hilltop souvenir shop on Himmelbjerget, pairing simple treats and mementos with big views over Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests above Ry.
Ugleboden
0.2 km
Casual ice cream and souvenir stall on Himmelbjerget, adding a sweet, no-frills pause to hikes and family outings in the wooded hills above Ry.
Bjerghytten
0.3 km
Bjerghytten: Savor Ice Cream Delights Amidst Himmelbjerget's Scenic Beauty
Bjerg-kiosken
0.3 km
Compact hilltop kiosk on Himmelbjerget serving ice cream, snacks and drinks to walkers and day-trippers at one of Denmark’s most iconic viewpoint areas near Ry.
Nordic Yarn - a woolly affair
2.0 km
A cosy, family-run Nordic wool shop on a Jutland farm near Ry, where Icelandic and Norwegian yarn fill the shelves and horses graze just outside.
Laven Antikvariat
3.1 km
Rare books, organic coffee, and genuine warmth in a charming village shop.
Made by Ella
3.3 km
Intimate goldsmith’s studio in Ry, where local jewelry artist Julie Ella Jappe handcrafts custom designs and contemporary pieces in a calm, small-town setting.
Dagli'Brugsen Gl. Rye
3.4 km
Community-owned supermarket where every purchase strengthens local bonds and supports sustainable living.
ByStenholt
3.6 km
A calm, contemporary womenswear boutique in Ry, blending Nordic style with small-town ease and serving as the local face of a modern Danish fashion webshop.
Rye Nørskov Gårdbutik
4.4 km
Historic farm shop in a mill building, selling wild game from estate forests with uncompromising quality and sustainability.
Hanne Linding Denmark / BUTIK No. 9 Ry
4.7 km
Intimate Ry boutique by textile artist Hanne Linding, showcasing feminine Danish knitwear, curated colors and timeless, everyday Scandinavian design.
Kandis
4.7 km
A welcoming Ry specialty shop where wine, sweets, gourmet delicacies and thoughtful gifts come together under one cosy, carefully curated roof.
Toft suits men & women
4.7 km
Distinctive menswear and womenswear for those who value timeless quality and personal style.
Hanghøj
4.7 km
A cosy Scandinavian fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Ry, offering curated women’s clothing, accessories and gifts with a relaxed, personal touch.
Red Cross Op Shop
4.8 km
Community-powered Danish thrift store in Ry, where low-cost second-hand finds help fund Red Cross humanitarian work and support more sustainable shopping.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Høkeren
4.7 km
Possibly Denmark’s smallest pub, Høkeren in Ry distills classic Danish tavern culture into 18 sociable square meters of wood, warmth and well‑poured drinks.
La Vinya
4.7 km
Chic wine bar and tapas lounge in Ry, offering curated wines, local bites, and cozy ambiance—perfect for unwinding after your Himmelbjerget adventure.
Ambolten Ry
4.9 km
Cosy neighborhood bar and social hub in the heart of Ry, mixing cold beers, live music and small-town charm in a laid-back, living-room atmosphere.
Dartklubben Potten
9.5 km
A classic Danish darts clubhouse in Låsby, where competitive heritage, cold drinks and small-town hygge come together around the oche.
Bakkens bodega
10.4 km
Unpretentious beer hall on Århusvej where locals, cold drafts and simple pub fare create a slice of everyday Silkeborg life from late morning to late evening.
Bodega Hjørnet
10.6 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Cafe' Paradis
10.6 km
A compact, old‑school bodega in central Silkeborg, serving cold beers, local atmosphere and late‑night conversation in an unpretentious, lived‑in bar setting.
The Admiral Pub
10.8 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
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.
Sportspubben Målet
10.9 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
11.0 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.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
11.0 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
11.0 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
11.0 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
Rabalder Bar
11.0 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- 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
- LGBT Friendly
