Kongestolen: The King's Chair and Panoramic Lakeside Vistas
Legendary lakeside viewpoint offering mesmerizing panoramas, rooted in royal lore and surrounded by the enchanting forests and crystalline lakes of Silkeborg.
Kongestolen, or 'The King's Chair,' is a scenic viewpoint nestled within the forests of Silkeborg, offering breathtaking panoramas of the lake-dotted Silkeborg Lakes Region. This natural spot is famed for its dramatic hillside vantage and ties to royal legends, making it a favorite with hikers, nature lovers, and photographers seeking both tranquility and splendid views.
A brief summary to Funder Ruin
- Funder Skovvej 17, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
Local tips
- Bring a picnic or snacks, as there are no food outlets near the viewpoint.
- Wear sturdy footwear; forest trails can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Sunsets here are particularly spectacular, so plan a late afternoon visit if possible.
- Photographers will want a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping views.
- Accessible for most, but the final ascent can be steep for those with limited mobility.
Getting There
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Walking
From Silkeborg's vibrant town center, a scenic footpath leads you through residential neighborhoods and enters dense forest. Walking the route, you'll pass signs for the popular lake trails and eventually encounter glimpses of water between the trees before you reach the well-marked viewpoint. The walk typically takes 35–50 minutes depending on pace. No fees apply, and public restrooms are available in the nearby leisure areas closer to town.
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Public Transport + Walking
Regional buses from Silkeborg Station run to release points near the edge of the lake and forest areas, with a single fare of 24–36 DKK depending on your starting stop. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk through mixed woodland, following marked signs toward Kongestolen. Allow for a 10–15-minute walk on foot from most forest-edge stops.
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Taxi
A taxi from Silkeborg's town center offers a swift and comfortable ride, typically reaching the forest access point in 8–12 minutes at a cost of around 100–130 DKK. The car can only approach as far as the main parking area; from there, a short forest path leads you up to the viewpoint.
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Driving
If driving, there are small parking lots nestled at the edge of the woodland. Parking is currently free, but spaces are limited during peak weekends. From there, the path to Kongestolen guides visitors under the forest canopy and up the hillside—expect around 10–20 minutes on foot from the nearest lot.
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