Arboretet Silkeborg
A quiet world of global trees in a 200‑year‑old Silkeborg forest, where wetlands, wildlife and easy woodland paths create a free, low‑key escape close to town.
Tucked between the Gudenå River and the lakes and forests of Silkeborg, Arboretet Silkeborg is a small but fascinating woodland showcasing an impressive variety of trees from different parts of the world. Planted in a centuries‑old forest near the Freshwater Centre, it combines classic Danish woodland with carefully curated species, wetlands and open glades. Quiet paths, a nearby dog forest and birdlife make this a low‑key, free escape ideal for unhurried walks, nature play with children and relaxed moments close to town.
A brief summary to Aboretet Silkeborg
- Sejsvej 24, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 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
- Wear waterproof shoes in wet seasons; sections of the wetland arboretum can be muddy and hold puddles long after rain.
- Bring a simple tree guide or app to make the most of the diverse species and turn your walk into a small botanical tour.
- If you visit with a dog, use the nearby dog forest for off‑leash play and keep good control in the rest of the arboretum.
- Plan extra time to combine the arboretum with a visit to the nearby Freshwater Centre or lakeside paths for a longer outing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Walking from Silkeborg town centre
From the central area around Torvet in Silkeborg, walking to Arboretet along Sejsvej and the lakeside paths typically takes 25–35 minutes at a relaxed pace. The route is mostly flat on pavements and well‑marked paths, suitable for most visitors with basic mobility. There are no fees involved, and the walk offers a pleasant transition from town streets to forest without any technical terrain.
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Local bus within Silkeborg
Several local bus lines run from Silkeborg bus terminal towards Sejsvej and the AQUA/Ferskvandscenteret area, close to the arboretum. Travel time is usually 10–15 minutes, with services running roughly every 30–60 minutes during the day. A single adult ticket within Silkeborg typically costs around 20–30 DKK, payable by card or app. Buses usually have low floors, making this a convenient option for those who prefer to minimise walking.
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Driving from Silkeborg and nearby towns
Driving from Silkeborg centre to Arboretet via Sejsvej and the main local roads normally takes 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic. Visitors arriving from nearby towns in the Søhøjlandet area, such as Ry or Gjern, should allow 20–30 minutes. Parking is generally available near the Freshwater Centre and forest entrances, usually free of charge, but spaces can be busier on sunny weekends and holidays.
Aboretet Silkeborg 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
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Hot Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Aboretet Silkeborg
Global trees in an old Danish forest
Arboretet Silkeborg sits in a roughly 200‑year‑old woodland on the edge of town, where classic beech, oak and conifer forest meets a curated collection of trees from across the globe. Here more than two dozen different species have been planted, representing around 18 regions from three continents, turning a local stand of forest into an open‑air tree museum. Paths thread between tall trunks, low shrubs and damp hollows, with subtle changes in bark, leaf shape and canopy telling the story of how each species has adapted to its home climate. Unlike formal botanical gardens, the arboretum keeps a distinctly natural feel. Underfoot, roots push through sandy soil, moss softens fallen branches and birds call from high in the canopy. Simple signage explains the origin of key species, allowing curious visitors to match unfamiliar trees with their homeland, yet the wider forest remains wild enough to feel like a genuine Danish woodland rather than a manicured park.Water, wetlands and quiet corners
The arboretum lies close to Silkeborg’s water landscape, between the lakes, the Gudenå and Vejlbo Mose. Low‑lying sections form a wetland arboretum, where boardwalk‑style paths and damper ground support moisture‑loving trees and shrubs. In spring and summer, these patches are alive with birdsong and insects, while reeds and water plants edge still pools. This watery setting creates a gentle, sheltered microclimate. On still days the air feels slightly cooler and more humid than in town; after rain, earthy scents rise from the forest floor and reflections shimmer in the puddles and ditches. Despite its proximity to Silkeborg, there are corners where traffic noise fades, replaced by the rustle of leaves and the occasional splash from a nearby pond or stream.Walking, exploring and everyday escapes
Arboretet Silkeborg is an easy place to slip into everyday routines: a short dog walk before work, a leisurely afternoon loop with children, or a gentle stroll to unwind after exploring the city. Flat forest paths make it broadly accessible for most walkers, and distances are short enough that you can choose anything from a 20‑minute amble to a longer walk that links with surrounding woods, the dog forest and lakeside routes. Families often use the arboretum as an outdoor classroom. Children can compare needles and leaves, spot birds between the branches, balance on fallen trunks and invent games among the trees. For adults, benches and natural seating spots invite pauses with a book or a thermos of coffee. The atmosphere is relaxed rather than dramatic: this is a place for slow appreciation rather than high‑energy adventure.Wildlife, birdlife and seasonal changes
Being part of the wider Silkeborgskovene, the arboretum shares in the region’s rich wildlife. The varied structure of wet and dry areas, dense stands and open glades attracts a mix of birds, from woodpeckers and tits to finches and occasional raptors circling above the canopy. Around wet hollows, dragonflies patrol in summer, and frogs may be heard calling in the evenings. Seasonality is one of the site’s quiet highlights. In spring, fresh green leaves and catkins emerge in layers, while some exotic species leaf out earlier or later than their Danish neighbors, creating a staggered flush of color. Summer brings deep shade and cool forest air, with undergrowth thick and fragrant. Autumn is perhaps the most photogenic time, when different tree species turn at different moments, producing patchworks of yellow, copper and red. In winter, silhouettes, bark textures and the play of low light become the main attraction, and light snowfall can transform the arboretum into a monochrome study in structure.Context within Silkeborg’s nature network
Arboretet Silkeborg does not stand alone: it forms part of a larger network of paths, forests and lakes that ring the city. Within a short walk lie the Freshwater Centre and AQUA, where the focus shifts from trees to aquatic life, while nearby lakes and viewpoints offer further routes for those wanting a longer day outdoors. This makes the arboretum a natural stop on broader hikes through Silkeborgskovene or a convenient green detour from more structured attractions. Because access is free and open at all hours, the area lends itself to spur‑of‑the‑moment visits. Early risers can enjoy soft morning light through the branches, while evening walkers may catch the last glow on trunks and treetops. For visitors staying in Silkeborg, it offers an easy way to experience the forested character of the Søhøjlandet region without committing to a full‑day excursion, yet it still hints at the diversity and ecological richness that define Denmark’s great lake district.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lovisehøj
1.3 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Water Tower
1.9 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
2.3 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
3.5 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
8.7 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
9.1 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Store Troldhøj
10.6 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Randershøj
10.8 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Bølling Lake
12.2 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
13.6 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.
Abbey Mill
14.7 km
Explore Abbey Mill in Skanderborg: A picturesque blend of history and nature, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable experiences.
Øm Klostermuseum
15.8 km
Discover Denmark's medieval monastic life at Øm Klostermuseum near Ry: Explore ruins, gardens, and artifacts revealing centuries of history and brewing traditions.
Mossø
18.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mossø, Denmark's third-largest lake, offering hiking, watersports, and historical sites in the heart of the Danish Lake District.
Jutland
19.8 km
Discover Jutland, Denmark: Explore Viking history, stunning nature, and family fun on the mainland peninsula, offering an authentic Danish experience.
The Uncovered Bridge
21.3 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park
0.6 km
Freshwater worlds, playful otters and splash-filled playgrounds come together in Silkeborg’s lake-district aquarium and Danish wildlife park.
Indelukkets Friluftsscene
0.7 km
Historic open-air theatre hosting rock festivals, concerts, and cultural events in scenic Silkeborg parkland.
Befrielsesmonument i Silkeborg
0.8 km
A powerful World War II memorial in Silkeborg’s Indelukket park, where Knud Nellemose’s bronze freedom fighter rises from granite reliefs of occupation, resistance and liberation.
Odderpassager
0.9 km
A low wooden boardwalk skimming Almindsø’s surface, Odderpassager lets you drift between forest and lake at Østre Søbad, half pier, half tranquil nature trail.
Birkehøj Silkeborg
0.9 km
A modest Silkeborg hilltop with wide woodland views, Birkehøj offers a simple, quiet pause above town for walkers, cyclists and anyone craving a breath of open sky.
Ulvehoved
1.0 km
A gentle hilltop in Silkeborg’s Nordskov, Ulvehoved offers forest trails, soft climbs and tranquil views across Denmark’s hilly lake highlands.
Museum Jorn, Silkeborg
1.2 km
Riverfront modern art sanctuary in Silkeborg, uniting Asger Jorn’s bold legacy, CoBrA masterpieces and hands-on creativity in an intimate, light-filled museum.
Dronningestolen
1.3 km
A modest forest hill with a royal name, Dronningestolen offers a framed Silkeborg panorama, woodland quiet and a sense of history above the lakeside town.
De Små Fisk
1.4 km
Lakeside lawns, calm bathing water and simple shelters make this Silkeborg green space a relaxed gateway to the forests and waterways of the Silkeborg Lakes.
Kroghs Bænk
1.5 km
Central Jutland’s award-winning safari and wildlife park, where visitors can encounter exotic animals, participate in immersive experiences, and explore vast open landscapes.
Badeanstalten
2.0 km
Denmark's most authentic bathhouse—a historic Nordic wellness sanctuary preserving centuries of bathing tradition.
Silkeborg Archive
2.1 km
Silkeborg’s collective memory, preserving documents, images and stories that trace the lakeside city’s journey from industrial outpost to modern municipality.
Tollundmanden
2.1 km
Meet the Tollund Man, a 2,400‑year‑old bog body whose hauntingly preserved face and story of ritual, death and discovery define Museum Silkeborg’s Iron Age heart.
Galerie Moderne Silkeborg
2.1 km
One of Scandinavia’s largest modern art galleries, blending CoBrA masterpieces, contemporary works and a welcoming, free-to-enter space in central Silkeborg.
Museum Silkeborg, Hovedgården
2.1 km
Step into Silkeborg’s oldest manor house to meet Tollund Man, explore bog mysteries and trace the town’s journey from Iron Age wetlands to modern Jutland hub.
Essential places to dine
Orangeriet
0.9 km
Seasonal Nordic cuisine in a historic orangery surrounded by gardens and natural light.
Gl. Skovridergaard
0.9 km
Historic forester’s lodge turned serene hotel, restaurant and conference haven, wrapped in parkland with forests, lakes and Silkeborg’s cultural life close at hand.
Resturant indelukket
1.0 km
Modern Danish comfort food on the edge of Silkeborg’s Indelukket park, where classic flavors, fresh ingredients and riverside greenery create an easygoing dining escape.
Restaurant Karoline Amalie v/Rikke Brockstedt
1.3 km
Destination dining in the woods near Silkeborg, where seasonal Danish menus, thoughtful wine pairings and a calm, intimate room turn dinner into an evening-long occasion.
Skovbakken Silkeborg
1.9 km
Hilltop event restaurant with sweeping river and harbor views, hosting weddings, celebrations and meetings above Silkeborg’s green waterfront.
Ristorante Pizzeria Roma
1.9 km
Unpretentious Italian comfort in central Silkeborg, with stone-oven pizzas, generous pasta plates and a cosy, family-friendly dining room ideal for relaxed evenings.
Restaurant Spyd
1.9 km
Charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs and Middle Eastern specialties in casual Silkeborg dining.
Tin's
2.0 km
Casual, cozy Vietnamese cooking in central Silkeborg, serving steaming pho, crisp banh xeo and fresh herbs in a relaxed, modern setting ideal for lunch or dinner.
Regatta Sandwich
2.0 km
Freshly baked Italian sandwiches in the heart of Silkeborg—quality ingredients, casual charm.
La Casita
2.0 km
Colorful Mexican comfort food, tequila and hygge in a cozy, rustic cantina right on Bindslevs Plads in the heart of Silkeborg.
Asian Restaurant & Café
2.1 km
Cozy Southeast Asian flavors in the heart of Silkeborg, pairing Vietnamese and Thai dishes with a warm, relaxed atmosphere on lively pedestrian Søndergade.
Madkassen V/allan Petersen
2.1 km
Casual Silkeborg sandwich and tapas kitchen serving generous box lunches, easygoing takeaway and tailored catering from a friendly Tværgade storefront.
Daruma Ramen
2.1 km
Cosy Japanese noodle bar on Søndergade in Silkeborg, serving comforting ramen and crisp chicken katsu in a simple, relaxed setting ideal for casual meals.
BABBA
2.1 km
Mediterranean-inspired social dining, wine and cocktails in a cosy Silkeborg townhouse with a lively bar and atmospheric courtyard terrace.
Marco Polo - Silkeborg
2.1 km
Authentic Italian and Brazilian cuisine in cozy Silkeborg surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pindhus.dk
2.1 km
Hand-curated Scandinavian design, gifts, and lifestyle treasures in the heart of Silkeborg.
t.i.n.g.
2.2 km
Scandinavian design paradise in central Silkeborg, offering two floors of curated furniture, lighting, interiors and gifts in a calm, inspiring boutique setting.
Huset Lene Bak Silkeborg
2.2 km
Welcoming women’s fashion boutique in central Silkeborg, specialising in quality jeans, flattering fits and personal styling in a calm, uncluttered setting.
Fair Retro
2.2 km
Curated mid-century and retro furniture in a cosy Silkeborg shop, where vintage Danish design, characterful lighting and sustainable home inspiration fill every corner.
Buksecompagniet
2.2 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Femilet
2.2 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
Bivs.dk
2.2 km
Silkeborg's dedicated children's clothing and toy specialist with extended daily hours.
TOFT SHOP
2.2 km
Curated menswear blending timeless elegance with contemporary style in Silkeborg's charming lake district.
Christoffersen Silkeborg A/S
2.2 km
Established jeweller on Silkeborg’s main square, blending classic gold and silver pieces, quality watches and attentive service in a calm, central setting.
Normal
2.2 km
Denmark's original discount retailer where treasure hunting meets affordability in quirky, welcoming surroundings.
b.young Silkeborg
2.2 km
A contemporary Danish womenswear boutique in central Silkeborg, offering accessible Scandinavian style, versatile outfits and relaxed, easy-going browsing.
Companys Silkeborg
2.2 km
Modern Scandinavian womenswear in a calm, central Silkeborg boutique, ideal for curated wardrobe updates between café stops and city-center strolls.
Tenna Og Jens Kristian I/S
2.2 km
Family-run multibrand womenswear house in central Silkeborg, combining 400 m² of contemporary fashion, personal styling and Scandinavian labels on lively Vestergade.
Bustedwoman.com
2.2 km
Curated European fashion and personalized styling in Silkeborg's premier women's boutique.
Elkjær Lingerie
2.3 km
Intimate lingerie boutique on Silkeborg’s main square, offering personal fittings, classic Scandinavian styles and a calm pause from the town centre’s everyday bustle.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bodega Hjørnet
1.7 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
1.8 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.
Bakkens bodega
2.0 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.
The Admiral Pub
2.0 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
2.0 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Sportspubben Målet
2.1 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.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
2.1 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Roxy Malt
2.1 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.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
2.1 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
2.2 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
Bifrost Sports Pub
2.2 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
2.2 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
Kaffebaren
2.3 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
2.4 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
The Smoke Pub
2.9 km
A classic Silkeborg bodega on Borgergade, where smoke, cold beer and easy conversation create an unpretentious local living room from late morning to late night.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
B'sharp - Silkeborg Rhythm Og Blues Association
2.0 km
Volunteer-run blues stronghold in central Silkeborg, where intimate weekend concerts, affordable drinks and close-up performances keep rhythm & roots music alive.
Team Paderborner
25.8 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Terminalen I/S v/Carl Erik Agnskov M.Fl.
34.7 km
Lively, affordable bar at Viborg’s historic center—Terminalen offers all-day drinks, local vibes, and Danish hygge for city explorers and socializers.
Vesterbro Pub
34.7 km
Vesterbro Pub offers an authentic slice of Danish bodega culture in central Viborg, where locals gather for affordable drinks, lively chats, and classic pub games.
Scandic Opus Horsens
35.0 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.
ANDERS LAUSTSEN A/S
36.3 km
Compact, casual late-night bar and dance spot in Viborg, offering simple drinks, music, and a local Danish nightlife vibe just beyond the historic center.
Sölibat Natklub
36.4 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
36.4 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.
Piano Herning
36.5 km
Experience Herning’s vibrant nightlife in a cozy piano bar with live music, great cocktails, and classic Danish hospitality in the center of town.
Morzybitten
36.5 km
Experience the essence of Danish 'hygge' at Morzybitten, Horsens' premier barista and beer bar with live music.
Jagtbar Horsens
36.6 km
Horsens' premier nightclub where relaxed cocktails transform into energetic dance nights.
Kokomo Horsens
36.6 km
Three floors of colorful cocktails, big beats and tropical nightclub energy at the heart of Horsens’ weekend nightlife.
Murphy's Pub
36.6 km
Traditional Irish pub in the center of Herning, Denmark, featuring welcoming atmosphere, live music, a variety of beers and whiskies, and lively sports viewing.
Bart
36.6 km
Stylish cocktail bar in central Herning, renowned for inventive drinks, cheerful ambiance, and generous opening hours—an essential stop for experiencing the city’s modern nightlife.
PDD
36.8 km
Compact, no-frills nightclub on Lindvigsvej in Horsens, offering late-night dancing, simple drinks and an intimate, local-party atmosphere on weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
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
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly