Kongestolen Viewpoint, Silkeborg
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.
Kongestolen is a forested hilltop viewpoint rising about 82 m above the lake landscape south of Slåensø in the Silkeborg Lake District. Reached by a short but steep woodland path and steps, this classic “king’s seat” rewards the climb with sweeping views over mirror-like water, dense conifer and beech forest, and the gently rolling hills of central Jutland. A simple bench at the top invites you to catch your breath, soak up the quiet and watch the light drift across one of Denmark’s most scenic inland areas.
A brief summary to Kongestolen
- Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes: the final path and wooden steps from Slåensø up to Kongestolen are short but steep, with roots and potentially slippery sections.
- Bring water and a snack or thermos; there is just a single bench at the top and no facilities, making it an ideal spot for a simple picnic with a view.
- Visit on a clear day or in autumn for the best views, when crisper air and thinner foliage open up the panorama over lake, forest and rolling hills.
- Combine the climb with the roughly 3 km loop trail around Slåensø for a fuller experience of the forest and lake landscape.
- If you have extra time, continue a little further along Kongestolsvej to see the towering Douglas fir, among the tallest trees in Denmark.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car from central Silkeborg
From central Silkeborg, driving to the Slåensø area typically takes around 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to follow regional roads through mixed residential and rural surroundings before reaching small forest access points with informal parking areas near trailheads. Parking is usually free but limited, and spaces can fill on sunny weekends and holidays, so allow extra time in peak periods.
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Local bus and short walk
Regional buses connecting Silkeborg with nearby villages stop within walking distance of forest access points for Slåensø, with total travel times generally between 25 and 45 minutes from the town centre. Standard single tickets within this part of Central Jutland typically cost in the range of 20–35 DKK, depending on the zones travelled. Services run more frequently on weekdays than evenings and weekends, so check timetables in advance and be prepared for a 15–30 minute walk on forest paths from the nearest stop.
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Cycling from Silkeborg
Cycling from Silkeborg to the Slåensø and Kongestolen area is a pleasant option for active visitors, usually taking 25–40 minutes each way. The route uses a mix of local roads and signed cycle paths through gently rolling terrain. The approach includes some hills but no extreme gradients, making it manageable for most reasonably fit cyclists. There are no formal bike racks at the viewpoint itself, so bring a lock and plan to secure your bicycle at the edge of the forest before continuing on foot up the hill.
Kongestolen 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
Discover more about Kongestolen
A king’s seat above the Silkeborg lakes
Kongestolen is a compact but striking hill in Sønderskov, the southern forest by Slåensø, just outside Silkeborg. Climbing to around 82 m above sea level, it forms a natural balcony over the Silkeborg Lake District, with a single wooden bench set like a throne on the ridge. From here your gaze runs north across the dark surface of Slåensø, ringed by tall trees and the soft folds of central Jutland’s hills. Despite its modest height by mountain standards, Kongestolen feels surprisingly elevated. The lake sits far below, and the forest canopy stretches away in textured shades of green and copper depending on the season. On clear days the views open wide, framing sky, water and woodland in a single panorama.Stories behind the royal name
The name Kongestolen – “the king’s seat” – is wrapped in a little historical mystery. Local tradition links it to Danish kings who visited the area in the 18th and 19th centuries, possibly Frederik VI or Christian VIII, who both spent time at nearby Silkeborg estates. The idea of a monarch choosing this natural lookout as an informal throne fits neatly with the romantic spirit of the era. Old maps from the mid‑1800s already mark Kongestolen as a named viewpoint, suggesting the hill was well known as a place to bring distinguished guests for a grand view of the woods and lakes. Whether the name arose from a specific royal visit or from generations of escorts showing nobles this “throne” above the landscape, it adds a touch of folklore to an otherwise simple spot.Forest paths, steps and a lung‑stretching ascent
Reaching Kongestolen is part of the experience. The route typically begins on the shore path that loops around Slåensø, one of Denmark’s clearest forest lakes. A marked side path and a wooden staircase lead away from the water, climbing sharply through mixed woodland. Roots, stones and occasionally damp patches underfoot make sturdy footwear a good idea. The ascent is short but steep enough to get your pulse going, especially if you are walking the full circuit around the lake. As you climb, glimpses of water flash between the trunks before disappearing behind the slope. The final stretch emerges onto the small open crest where the bench stands, facing the lakes and hills beyond.Views, neighbouring giants and simple pleasures
At the top, life slows down. Birds call from the canopy below, wind stirs the crowns of conifers, and drifting clouds stripe the lake with moving shadows. The bench at Kongestolen is often just enough: a place to sit quietly, share a thermos of coffee or simply watch the subtle changes of light and colour over the water. Only a short walk away stands one of Denmark’s tallest trees, an impressive Douglas fir planted in the late 19th century and now soaring more than fifty metres into the air. Combining the hilltop vantage of Kongestolen with this forest giant underlines how unusually vertical this part of Denmark feels.Seasons, atmosphere and who it suits
Kongestolen is engaging in all seasons. In spring the forest floor brightens with new growth and views open through bare branches. Summer wraps the hill in deep green and invites long, shaded walks around Slåensø. Autumn brings copper foliage and clear, crisp air – often the best conditions for long views – while winter can leave the path muddy or occasionally icy but rewards with austere beauty and extra visibility. The viewpoint suits walkers of most ages who are comfortable with a brief but reasonably steep climb. It works as a pause on a family circuit of Slåensø, a contemplative stop for solo hikers seeking quiet, or a romantic perch for couples watching the sun sink towards the forested horizon. Though modest in scale, Kongestolen offers a classic Danish mix of gentle adventure and close‑up nature.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lovisehøj
3.7 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
4.7 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
5.0 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Silkeborg Water Tower
6.2 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
6.5 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
silkeborg
6.6 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Randershøj
11.2 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Øm Klostermuseum
11.5 km
Discover Denmark's medieval monastic life at Øm Klostermuseum near Ry: Explore ruins, gardens, and artifacts revealing centuries of history and brewing traditions.
Store Troldhøj
11.7 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Landal Søhøjlandet
12.9 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.
Mossø
14.0 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.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
14.2 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.
Murermester Rasmus Nielsens Mindesten
14.7 km
A hidden memorial stone honoring a master mason's legacy in Silkeborg's quiet forest.
Bølling Lake
15.9 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
The Uncovered Bridge
17.2 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Høgdal
1.6 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.
FDF Outdoor Center Sletten
2.1 km
Denmark's premier outdoor recreation hub where free activities, mountain biking, and nature immersion meet modern comfort.
Shelterplads
2.2 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.
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.
Labyrinthia
2.9 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.
De Små Fisk
3.0 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.
Duedal Bjerg
4.0 km
Experience historic steam boat journeys on Julsø and Silkeborg lakes, arriving at Denmark’s Himmelbjerget, surrounded by scenery and nostalgia.
Ulvehoved
4.1 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
4.4 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.
Turbådene Himmelbjerget
4.6 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.
Birkehøj Silkeborg
4.7 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.
Odderpassager
4.7 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.
Himmelbjerget
4.8 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
4.8 km
A 25‑metre red-brick memorial crowning Himmelbjerget, offering sweeping lake-and-forest panoramas and a powerful glimpse into Denmark’s democratic story.
AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park
4.9 km
Freshwater worlds, playful otters and splash-filled playgrounds come together in Silkeborg’s lake-district aquarium and Danish wildlife park.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Aalekroen
1.7 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
2.0 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.
Restaurant Karoline Amalie v/Rikke Brockstedt
3.9 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.
Café Himmelsk
5.1 km
Homemade pastries and mountain views in Denmark's legendary lake district.
Cafeteria Himmelbjerget
5.1 km
Casual hilltop cafeteria at Himmelbjerget, serving classic Danish comfort food and ice cream with wide views over the Silkeborg lakes and surrounding forests.
Orangeriet
5.2 km
Seasonal Nordic cuisine in a historic orangery surrounded by gardens and natural light.
Gl. Skovridergaard
5.3 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.
Resturant indelukket
5.3 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.
Skovbakken Silkeborg
6.2 km
Hilltop event restaurant with sweeping river and harbor views, hosting weddings, celebrations and meetings above Silkeborg’s green waterfront.
Ristorante Pizzeria Roma
6.3 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
6.3 km
Charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs and Middle Eastern specialties in casual Silkeborg dining.
Tin's
6.4 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
6.4 km
Freshly baked Italian sandwiches in the heart of Silkeborg—quality ingredients, casual charm.
Asian Restaurant & Café
6.4 km
Cozy Southeast Asian flavors in the heart of Silkeborg, pairing Vietnamese and Thai dishes with a warm, relaxed atmosphere on lively pedestrian Søndergade.
La Casita
6.4 km
Colorful Mexican comfort food, tequila and hygge in a cozy, rustic cantina right on Bindslevs Plads in the heart of Silkeborg.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nordic Yarn - a woolly affair
4.0 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.
Ørneboden
5.0 km
Small hilltop souvenir shop on Himmelbjerget, pairing simple treats and mementos with big views over Søhøjlandet’s lakes and forests above Ry.
Bjerghytten
5.0 km
Bjerghytten: Savor Ice Cream Delights Amidst Himmelbjerget's Scenic Beauty
Ugleboden
5.0 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.
Bjerg-kiosken
5.1 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.
The Silkeborg Ski Shop
6.2 km
Specialist ski outfitter in Silkeborg where Scandinavian style, expert advice and quality gear come together before you head for the winter mountains.
Laven Antikvariat
6.5 km
Rare books, organic coffee, and genuine warmth in a charming village shop.
Pindhus.dk
6.5 km
Hand-curated Scandinavian design, gifts, and lifestyle treasures in the heart of Silkeborg.
t.i.n.g.
6.5 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
6.5 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
6.5 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.
Buksecompagniet
6.5 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Femilet
6.5 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
Bivs.dk
6.6 km
Silkeborg's dedicated children's clothing and toy specialist with extended daily hours.
Christoffersen Silkeborg A/S
6.6 km
Established jeweller on Silkeborg’s main square, blending classic gold and silver pieces, quality watches and attentive service in a calm, central setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bodega Hjørnet
6.1 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Bakkens bodega
6.1 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.
Cafe' Paradis
6.2 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
6.4 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
6.4 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Sportspubben Målet
6.4 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
6.5 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Roxy Malt
6.5 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.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
6.5 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
6.5 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
6.6 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
6.6 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
Kaffebaren
6.6 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
6.7 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
The Smoke Pub
7.1 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
6.4 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
21.7 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Scandic Opus Horsens
30.7 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
32.1 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
32.5 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
32.5 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
32.7 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.
Horsens New Style Dance Club
34.6 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
35.7 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at KLUB22 in Aarhus, where electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere await.
V58
36.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at V58 in Aarhus, where live music meets an energetic atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
equalclub
36.6 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
37.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Hornsleth Bar, where innovative cocktails meet an energetic atmosphere.
Bar Smil Aarhus
37.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Bar Smil Aarhus, a must-visit night club and bar offering an unforgettable experience in Denmark's cultural hub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
