Høgdal Cultural-Historical Visitor Farm
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.
Høgdal is a beautifully preserved 18th-century quadrangle farm set in the rolling landscapes near Them and Silkeborg, offering an immersive glimpse into traditional Danish rural life. The timbered farmhouse, barns and stables form a time capsule of Søhøjlandet’s farming culture, complemented by small fields, orchard corners and grazing areas. Run today as a cultural-historical visitor centre with volunteer involvement and seasonal activities, it is a tranquil, atmospheric place to slow down, explore, and sense everyday life from another era.
A brief summary to Høgdal
- Høgdalvej 4, Them, 8653, DK
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check opening days and seasonal activity dates in advance, as Høgdal does not operate on a daily, year-round schedule.
- Wear sturdy shoes; the cobbled courtyard, farm tracks and grassy paths can be uneven and muddy after rain.
- Allow time to explore the surrounding fields and viewpoints; the landscapes around the farm are as much a part of the experience as the buildings.
- Bring water, snacks or a simple picnic, as on-site food options are limited and seasonal.
- If you are interested in photography, visit in the early morning or late afternoon when soft light enhances the farm’s textures and colors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Car from Silkeborg
From central Silkeborg, driving to Høgdal near Them typically takes around 20–25 minutes, depending on traffic. The route follows local country roads with gentle bends and some narrow sections near the farm. There is free parking close to the visitor farm, though spaces can be limited on event days. No road tolls apply and fuel costs for the return trip are modest, roughly equivalent to 30–50 DKK in a small car.
-
Regional bus and short walk
From Silkeborg bus terminal, take a regional bus towards Them, with a journey time of around 20–30 minutes. A standard adult ticket costs in the region of 25–35 DKK one way, with services typically running at least once an hour on weekdays and less frequently on weekends. From the bus stop in Them, expect a countryside walk of 30–40 minutes on minor roads and farm tracks; the route is straightforward but not ideal for prams or wheelchairs.
-
Bicycle from Them or Silkeborg area
Cycling from Them to Høgdal usually takes about 15–25 minutes each way, following quiet local roads with a few moderate hills. From Silkeborg, confident cyclists can expect 45–60 minutes each way. There is no dedicated bike path the entire distance, but traffic is generally light. Bring lights and reflective gear if returning late, and be prepared for wind and changeable weather in the open countryside.
-
Taxi from Silkeborg or Them
A taxi from Silkeborg railway station to Høgdal generally takes 20–25 minutes. Depending on time of day and company, fares typically range from about 220–320 DKK one way. From Them, the ride is much shorter at roughly 5–10 minutes, usually costing 80–140 DKK. Taxis should be pre-booked, especially outside weekday business hours, as on-demand availability in the rural area can be limited.
Høgdal location weather suitability
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Clear Skies
-
Any Weather
-
Cold Weather
-
Hot Weather
Discover more about Høgdal
A farmstead frozen in time above the lakes
Høgdal sits on one of the higher ridges in Central Jutland, surrounded by soft hills, woods and fields in the Søhøjlandet lake district. Approaching the farm, you see the classic Danish quadrangle layout: low, whitewashed buildings with exposed timber framing wrapped around a cobbled courtyard. The setting feels remote and calm, yet the nearest town is surprisingly close. The farm dates back to the late 18th century and has been kept remarkably intact, from its layout to many of the materials and details used in construction. Roofs sag a little under the weight of age, doors and beams show the marks of long use, and small-paned windows still look out over the same landscapes that sustained generations of farmers.Everyday objects that tell rural stories
Inside the farmhouse rooms you move through kitchens, parlours and chambers arranged much as they might have been a century ago. Cast-iron stoves, simple wooden furniture, woven textiles and hand tools all speak of a life built around self-sufficiency and the seasons. You can get close to the objects and really study how they were made and used. In the outbuildings, traditional agricultural tools, carts and machinery show the gradual shift from pure hand power to early mechanisation. The contrast between heavy wooden implements and later metal equipment makes it easy to imagine how work on the land slowly changed, even while the farm buildings themselves stayed largely the same.Living heritage on a working visitor farm
Høgdal is not a static showpiece; it operates as a visitor farm with seasonal activity days, workshops and demonstrations that bring the place to life. On selected days you may find volunteers lighting the old stove, baking, demonstrating crafts or tending animals in the yards and small pastures. Because much of the maintenance and interpretation is carried by local enthusiasts, the atmosphere is personal and informal rather than institutional. The focus is on sharing practical knowledge about how people once used the buildings and land, and how traditional skills can still have relevance today.Nature, silence and sweeping High Jutland views
Step beyond the courtyard and you are quickly back in open countryside. Short walks around the fields and edges of the nearby woodland reveal broad views over the lake district and gently undulating farmland. The elevation here is relatively high for Denmark, so the horizon seems to stretch a little further. Birdsong, the wind in the trees and the occasional lowing of cattle form the natural soundtrack. Many visitors simply sit along a fence or on a grassy bank to soak up the quiet and sense the connection between the buildings and the landscape that once fed them.A gentle, low-key stop in a busy region
Compared with the region’s larger attractions, Høgdal feels intimate and unhurried. There are no flashy exhibits, only careful conservation and a clear focus on cultural history. A visit fits naturally into a broader day exploring Silkeborg’s lakes, forests and viewpoints, offering a more reflective pause between more energetic activities. Families, history enthusiasts and anyone curious about rural life find plenty to explore in the buildings and grounds. With its blend of heritage farm, serene surroundings and simple facilities, Høgdal works as a short stop or a lingering afternoon in the countryside.Seasons, light and the rhythm of farm life
The character of Høgdal shifts subtly with the seasons. In spring and summer, greenery presses right up to the buildings, fields glow with fresh growth and the courtyard feels bright and busy. In autumn, low light and drifting mist give the farm a more nostalgic, reflective mood. Even when nothing particular is happening on site, the play of weather and light over the old roofs and surrounding landscape underlines how closely rural life was once tied to nature’s rhythm. That sense of time and continuity is part of what makes Høgdal such a memorable, quietly distinctive place to experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
4.4 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
4.4 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Lovisehøj
5.2 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
7.3 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Silkeborg Water Tower
7.6 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
8.0 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Øm Klostermuseum
10.3 km
Discover Denmark's medieval monastic life at Øm Klostermuseum near Ry: Explore ruins, gardens, and artifacts revealing centuries of history and brewing traditions.
Randershøj
12.5 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Mossø
12.9 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.
Store Troldhøj
13.1 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Landal Søhøjlandet
14.2 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.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
15.4 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.
Murermester Rasmus Nielsens Mindesten
15.5 km
A hidden memorial stone honoring a master mason's legacy in Silkeborg's quiet forest.
The Uncovered Bridge
15.6 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Yding Skovhøj
16.5 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kongestolen
1.6 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.
Himmelbjergegnens Tårnhøje Tårn
1.6 km
Historic hilltop tower above Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests, blending Denmark’s constitutional story with sweeping Jutland views and atmospheric woodland paths.
FDF Outdoor Center Sletten
2.3 km
Denmark's premier outdoor recreation hub where free activities, mountain biking, and nature immersion meet modern comfort.
Labyrinthia
2.5 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.
Shelterplads
3.6 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.
Turbådene Himmelbjerget
4.3 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.
Himmelbjerget
4.3 km
Historic Sletterhage Lighthouse offers panoramic sea views, maritime history exhibits, and wild coastal scenery at the southern tip of Mols Bjerge National Park.
Himmelbjergtårnet
4.3 km
A 25‑metre red-brick memorial crowning Himmelbjerget, offering sweeping lake-and-forest panoramas and a powerful glimpse into Denmark’s democratic story.
Duedal Bjerg
4.4 km
Experience historic steam boat journeys on Julsø and Silkeborg lakes, arriving at Denmark’s Himmelbjerget, surrounded by scenery and nostalgia.
Bestig Himmelbjerget
4.4 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.
De Små Fisk
4.5 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.
H.C. Andersen bench
4.6 km
Discover Råbjerg Mile, Northern Europe’s largest migrating sand dune—a stunning, ever-shifting landscape near Skagen, perfect for exploration and breathtaking views.
Dynæs voldsted
5.3 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
5.4 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.
Ulvehoved
5.6 km
A gentle hilltop in Silkeborg’s Nordskov, Ulvehoved offers forest trails, soft climbs and tranquil views across Denmark’s hilly lake highlands.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Aalekroen
2.6 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
3.0 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.
Café Himmelsk
4.2 km
Homemade pastries and mountain views in Denmark's legendary lake district.
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
4.5 km
Casual hilltop cafeteria at Himmelbjerget, serving classic Danish comfort food and ice cream with wide views over the Silkeborg lakes and surrounding forests.
Restaurant Karoline Amalie v/Rikke Brockstedt
5.0 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.
Lyng Dal Hotel og Restaurant
6.3 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.
Orangeriet
6.6 km
Seasonal Nordic cuisine in a historic orangery surrounded by gardens and natural light.
Gl. Skovridergaard
6.6 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
6.7 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.
Ristorante Pizzeria Roma
7.6 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.
Skovbakken Silkeborg
7.6 km
Hilltop event restaurant with sweeping river and harbor views, hosting weddings, celebrations and meetings above Silkeborg’s green waterfront.
Restaurant Spyd
7.7 km
Charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs and Middle Eastern specialties in casual Silkeborg dining.
Tin's
7.8 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.
La Casita
7.8 km
Colorful Mexican comfort food, tequila and hygge in a cozy, rustic cantina right on Bindslevs Plads in the heart of Silkeborg.
Regatta Sandwich
7.8 km
Freshly baked Italian sandwiches in the heart of Silkeborg—quality ingredients, casual charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nordic Yarn - a woolly affair
2.9 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.
Bjerghytten
4.4 km
Bjerghytten: Savor Ice Cream Delights Amidst Himmelbjerget's Scenic Beauty
Ørneboden
4.4 km
Small hilltop souvenir shop on Himmelbjerget, pairing simple treats and mementos with big views over Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests above Ry.
Bjerg-kiosken
4.5 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.
Ugleboden
4.5 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.
Made by Ella
6.3 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
6.3 km
Community-owned supermarket where every purchase strengthens local bonds and supports sustainable living.
Laven Antikvariat
6.6 km
Rare books, organic coffee, and genuine warmth in a charming village shop.
ByStenholt
7.4 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.
The Silkeborg Ski Shop
7.7 km
Specialist ski outfitter in Silkeborg where Scandinavian style, expert advice and quality gear come together before you head for the winter mountains.
Pindhus.dk
7.9 km
Hand-curated Scandinavian design, gifts, and lifestyle treasures in the heart of Silkeborg.
t.i.n.g.
7.9 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
7.9 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
7.9 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
8.0 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bodega Hjørnet
7.4 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
7.5 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
7.6 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
7.8 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
7.8 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Sportspubben Målet
7.8 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
7.9 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Roxy Malt
7.9 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
7.9 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
7.9 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
7.9 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
8.0 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
8.0 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
8.1 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
The Smoke Pub
8.6 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
7.8 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
20.8 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Scandic Opus Horsens
29.2 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
30.7 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
31.0 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
31.0 km
Compact, high-energy nightclub in central Horsens, where pulsing beats, colourful lights and a sociable crowd define the city’s after-hours heartbeat.
Klodshans Horsens ApS
31.1 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.
Horsens New Style Dance Club
33.0 km
Horsens' premier line dancing venue where beginners and advanced dancers unite in movement and community.
Luksusmassage Århus
35.5 km
Experience Aarhus's dynamic nightlife at Luksusmassage, where music and energy blend for an unforgettable evening.
KLUB22
35.8 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at KLUB22 in Aarhus, where electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere await.
Bastian Bar & Nightclub, Odder - Nightclub
36.3 km
Odder's central nightlife destination for weekend entertainment and social gathering
V58
36.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at V58 in Aarhus, where live music meets an energetic atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
equalclub
36.7 km
Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.
Flintstone Pub
36.9 km
Flintstone Pub in Aarhus blends retro décor, affordable drinks, and live music, offering a lively gathering place for locals and visitors in the city’s central quarter.
Hornsleth Bar Aarhus
37.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Hornsleth Bar, where innovative cocktails meet an energetic atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Nature Escape
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
