De Små Fisk – Lakeside Green Escape by Silkeborg
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.
De Små Fisk is a lakeside bathing area and green parkland set between Silkeborg and Sejs, right on the shores of Brassø in the Silkeborg Lakes. This leafy waterfront spot mixes a sandy swimming area and shallow water with lawns, jetties and fire pits, making it ideal for lake dips, picnics, stand-up paddleboarding and relaxed afternoons in nature. With simple shelter and tent options for non-motorized travelers, it works equally well as a day-out base or a tranquil overnight pause on longer hiking and paddling routes.
A brief summary to De Små Fisk
- Sejsvej 40, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 8 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
- Bring your own picnic and drinks; facilities are simple and there are no permanent cafés on site, especially outside peak summer.
- If you plan to use the shelter or tent area, arrive by foot, bike or watercraft and check current local guidelines for overnight stays in advance.
- Pack layers and a windproof top even in summer, as the lakeside can feel cooler and breezier than the nearby town.
- For stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, start early in the day for calmer water, fewer people and more wildlife activity.
- Combine a visit with a walk on nearby forest and lakeside trails to experience the changing views across the Silkeborg Lakes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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City bus from central Silkeborg
From central Silkeborg, take a local city bus towards Sejs or Resenbro and get off at a stop near Sejsvej on the stretch between Silkeborg and Sejs; from there it is a short walk through a green area to the lakeside. The ride typically takes around 10–20 minutes depending on route and traffic, with regular daytime departures and reduced frequency in evenings and on weekends. A single adult ticket within the local zone system usually costs in the range of 20–30 DKK.
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Bicycle from Silkeborg town
Cycling from Silkeborg center to De Små Fisk is a straightforward lakeside outing of roughly 15–25 minutes each way, depending on your pace. The route follows paved roads and local paths, with gentle inclines suitable for most reasonably confident cyclists. This option is free aside from any rental cost if you hire a bike in town, which commonly ranges from about 100–200 DKK per day for a standard city or trekking bicycle.
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Walking from nearby residential areas
If you are staying in the eastern side of Silkeborg or in Sejs, you can reach De Små Fisk on foot in approximately 25–45 minutes, using pavements and local paths that lead towards the lakes. The terrain is mostly flat to gently undulating, making it manageable for most walkers, though surfaces can be uneven or muddy near the shoreline in wet weather. Walking is free and allows you to appreciate the gradual transition from town streets to forest and open water.
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Kayak or SUP via the Silkeborg Lakes
For those already paddling on the Silkeborg Lakes, De Små Fisk can be approached directly from the water by kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard, using the gently sloping shore for landing. Travel time varies widely with your starting point, but from central Silkeborg’s lakefront it typically takes around 45–90 minutes at a relaxed pace. If you rent equipment from an outfitter in the area, expect prices roughly in the range of 200–400 DKK for a few hours’ use, with lifejackets usually included.
De Små Fisk location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Hot Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Any Weather
Discover more about De Små Fisk
Lakes, Forest and Open Sky on the Edge of Silkeborg
De Små Fisk unfolds as a wide green clearing sloping gently down to Brassø, one of the Silkeborg Lakes, just outside the town itself. On one side you have mixed woodland and the soft hum of passing cyclists; on the other, the lake opens into a broad sheet of water, with low hills and tree-lined shores framing the horizon. Even though you are close to urban comforts, the first impression is distinctly natural: birds skimming the surface, the creak of jetties and the scent of damp soil and pine needles in the air. The area has been shaped as a combined bathing spot and local recreation zone. Grass lawns offer room to spread out towels and picnic blankets, while the shoreline alternates between sandy patches, reeds and small pontoons or jetties. The feeling is informal and unfussy, more like a beloved local nature spot than a manicured beach park, which gives it a relaxed Danish "friluftsliv" character.Waterfront Play, Lake Swims and SUP Adventures
The calm, often shallow water near the shore makes De Små Fisk a comfortable place for a gentle dip or families paddling close in. In summer, the lake is alive with movement: people wading slowly out, kids jumping off the jetties, and paddleboarders gliding past on the still surface. Because Brassø connects to the wider Silkeborg lake system, the setting feels bigger than a single bathing lake, with small boats and kayaks occasionally passing in the distance. Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are particularly appealing here, with easy put‑in from the shore or low banks. On quiet mornings or evenings, the water mirrors the sky and surrounding forest, making an unhurried paddle feel meditative. Even outside peak bath season, the lakeside path and open lawns lend themselves to brisk walks, cold‑water dips or simply sitting by the edge watching light shift across the water.Shelters, Tents and Life on the Trail
A distinctive feature of De Små Fisk is its role as a simple overnight base for non‑motorized travelers moving through the Silkeborg Lakes landscape. The designated tent and shelter area is aimed at people arriving on foot, by bicycle or by water, tapping into Denmark’s tradition of low‑impact outdoor accommodation. Waking up here means emerging directly into a lakeside clearing, with morning mist often hanging over Brassø and the calls of waterfowl carrying through the trees. The site also functions as a junction on long‑distance routes in the region. Close by runs a section of Himmelbjergruten, one of Denmark’s most scenic hiking trails, and the broader Gudenå corridor links paddlers from source to fjord. De Små Fisk becomes a natural pause point: somewhere to cook over a fire, refill water, stretch legs and watch the evening fall over the lake before moving on the next day.Everyday Nature, Picnics and Seasonal Moods
For many visitors, the appeal is as much about quiet everyday nature as specific activities. The grassy slopes invite long picnics, casual games and reading sessions in dappled shade. Dragonflies hover near the reeds, and the mix of open sky and tree canopy makes it easy to find either sun or shelter depending on the weather. Even on lively days there are often quieter corners at the edges where you can sit with a thermos and simply listen to the gentle lap of waves. Across the seasons, the character shifts. Summer is about swimming and barbecues, late light and laughing groups on the lawn. Autumn brings richer colors in the surrounding forest and more contemplative walks along the shore. In winter, hardy bathers may seek an icy plunge, while others come for wide, pale skies and crisp air. Spring feels particularly fresh here, as leaves return and the lake loses its steel‑grey tone.Silkeborg’s Outdoor Playground with a Soft Footprint
Although facilities are deliberately modest, there are thoughtful touches that make the area practical without overwhelming the landscape. Simple amenities support picnics and lake use, while the overall design keeps buildings and hard surfaces to a minimum, allowing grass, trees and water to dominate the scene. This light touch suits the ethos of the place: enjoy the lake, leave few traces and let nature remain in the foreground. As part of a region known for outdoor life, De Små Fisk helps connect people in and around Silkeborg with the lakes that define the area. Whether you come for a quick lunchtime swim, a family afternoon by the water, or as a night stop while hiking or paddling through Jutland, it offers an easy, welcoming way to step from everyday routines into a softer, more elemental world of water, sky and forest.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lovisehøj
0.7 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Water Tower
3.3 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
3.5 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
4.5 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
7.3 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
7.7 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Randershøj
10.3 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Store Troldhøj
10.3 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
13.2 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
13.5 km
Explore Abbey Mill in Skanderborg: A picturesque blend of history and nature, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable experiences.
Bølling Lake
13.6 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
Øm Klostermuseum
14.4 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
17.0 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.
The Uncovered Bridge
20.2 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Jutland
20.3 km
Discover Jutland, Denmark: Explore Viking history, stunning nature, and family fun on the mainland peninsula, offering an authentic Danish experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shelterplads
1.0 km
Back-to-basics shelter living on the edge of Silkeborg’s forests, offering free, simple overnight stays in fresh air within easy reach of trails and lakes.
Ulvehoved
1.1 km
A gentle hilltop in Silkeborg’s Nordskov, Ulvehoved offers forest trails, soft climbs and tranquil views across Denmark’s hilly lake highlands.
Aboretet Silkeborg
1.4 km
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.
Birkehøj Silkeborg
1.6 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.
AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park
2.0 km
Freshwater worlds, playful otters and splash-filled playgrounds come together in Silkeborg’s lake-district aquarium and Danish wildlife park.
Indelukkets Friluftsscene
2.1 km
Historic open-air theatre hosting rock festivals, concerts, and cultural events in scenic Silkeborg parkland.
Odderpassager
2.1 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.
Befrielsesmonument i Silkeborg
2.2 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.
Dronningestolen
2.6 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.
Museum Jorn, Silkeborg
2.6 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.
Kroghs Bænk
2.6 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.
Kongestolen
3.0 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.
The Hjejle Agency
3.4 km
Denmark's oldest steamship still operating with its original 1861 engine, offering historic cruises through the scenic Silkeborg Lake District.
Tollundmanden
3.4 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.
Museum Silkeborg, Hovedgården
3.4 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
Restaurant Karoline Amalie v/Rikke Brockstedt
1.8 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.
Resturant indelukket
2.3 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.
Orangeriet
2.3 km
Seasonal Nordic cuisine in a historic orangery surrounded by gardens and natural light.
Gl. Skovridergaard
2.3 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.
Skovbakken Silkeborg
3.1 km
Hilltop event restaurant with sweeping river and harbor views, hosting weddings, celebrations and meetings above Silkeborg’s green waterfront.
Ristorante Pizzeria Roma
3.3 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
3.3 km
Charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs and Middle Eastern specialties in casual Silkeborg dining.
Tin's
3.4 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
3.4 km
Freshly baked Italian sandwiches in the heart of Silkeborg—quality ingredients, casual charm.
Asian Restaurant & Café
3.4 km
Cozy Southeast Asian flavors in the heart of Silkeborg, pairing Vietnamese and Thai dishes with a warm, relaxed atmosphere on lively pedestrian Søndergade.
Daruma Ramen
3.4 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.
La Casita
3.4 km
Colorful Mexican comfort food, tequila and hygge in a cozy, rustic cantina right on Bindslevs Plads in the heart of Silkeborg.
Madkassen V/allan Petersen
3.4 km
Casual Silkeborg sandwich and tapas kitchen serving generous box lunches, easygoing takeaway and tailored catering from a friendly Tværgade storefront.
BABBA
3.5 km
Mediterranean-inspired social dining, wine and cocktails in a cosy Silkeborg townhouse with a lively bar and atmospheric courtyard terrace.
Restaurant „ Cafe Perle ”
3.5 km
Relaxed, modern café-brasserie in the heart of Silkeborg, serving generous comfort food, brunch plates, coffee and desserts from morning through evening.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pindhus.dk
3.5 km
Hand-curated Scandinavian design, gifts, and lifestyle treasures in the heart of Silkeborg.
t.i.n.g.
3.5 km
Scandinavian design paradise in central Silkeborg, offering two floors of curated furniture, lighting, interiors and gifts in a calm, inspiring boutique setting.
Buksecompagniet
3.5 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Femilet
3.5 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
Huset Lene Bak Silkeborg
3.5 km
Welcoming women’s fashion boutique in central Silkeborg, specialising in quality jeans, flattering fits and personal styling in a calm, uncluttered setting.
Bivs.dk
3.5 km
Silkeborg's dedicated children's clothing and toy specialist with extended daily hours.
Fair Retro
3.5 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.
Christoffersen Silkeborg A/S
3.5 km
Established jeweller on Silkeborg’s main square, blending classic gold and silver pieces, quality watches and attentive service in a calm, central setting.
Elkjær Lingerie
3.6 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.
TOFT SHOP
3.6 km
Curated menswear blending timeless elegance with contemporary style in Silkeborg's charming lake district.
Normal
3.6 km
Denmark's original discount retailer where treasure hunting meets affordability in quirky, welcoming surroundings.
Leather by Corium
3.6 km
Boutique Nordic leather shop in Silkeborg’s Papirfabrikken district, offering timeless bags and accessories that blend Scandinavian design with everyday practicality.
b.young Silkeborg
3.6 km
A contemporary Danish womenswear boutique in central Silkeborg, offering accessible Scandinavian style, versatile outfits and relaxed, easy-going browsing.
Skovs Antik - Silkeborg
3.6 km
A long‑time Silkeborg specialist in silver cutlery, vintage jewelry and classic tableware, preserving Danish craft traditions beyond the life of its physical shop.
Tenna Og Jens Kristian I/S
3.6 km
Family-run multibrand womenswear house in central Silkeborg, combining 400 m² of contemporary fashion, personal styling and Scandinavian labels on lively Vestergade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bakkens bodega
3.1 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
3.1 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
3.2 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
3.4 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
3.4 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Sportspubben Målet
3.5 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
3.5 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
3.5 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
3.5 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
3.6 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
3.6 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
3.6 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
3.6 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
Kaffebaren
3.6 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
The Smoke Pub
4.0 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
3.4 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
24.4 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Scandic Opus Horsens
33.7 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
35.2 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.
PDD
35.5 km
Compact, no-frills nightclub on Lindvigsvej in Horsens, offering late-night dancing, simple drinks and an intimate, local-party atmosphere on weekends.
Oskar hossman
35.6 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub in central Horsens, where pulsing beats, colourful lights and a sociable crowd define the city’s after-hours heartbeat.
Restaurant Latinerly
35.6 km
A vibrant culinary and nightlife landmark in Viborg, Restaurant Latinerly blends Nordic dining, creative cocktails, and festive energy in a historic setting.
Klodshans Horsens ApS
35.7 km
Discover live music, local art, and Danish hygge at Klodshans Horsens—a cozy harbor-side bar at the heart of the city's nightlife and cultural scene.
Terminalen I/S v/Carl Erik Agnskov M.Fl.
35.8 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
35.8 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.
KLUB22
37.0 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at KLUB22 in Aarhus, where electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere await.
Luksusmassage Århus
37.1 km
Experience Aarhus's dynamic nightlife at Luksusmassage, where music and energy blend for an unforgettable evening.
ANDERS LAUSTSEN A/S
37.5 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.
Horsens New Style Dance Club
37.6 km
Horsens' premier line dancing venue where beginners and advanced dancers unite in movement and community.
Piano Herning
37.7 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Unique
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
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- LGBT Friendly