Hjejleselskabet – Historic Steamship Cruises on Silkeborg Lakes
Denmark's oldest steamship still operating with its original 1861 engine, offering historic cruises through the scenic Silkeborg Lake District.
Experience Denmark's oldest steamship, SS Hjejlen, a coal-fired paddle steamer launched in 1861 and still operating with its original engine. Hjejleselskabet offers scenic cruises through the Silkeborg Lake District, with routes to Himmelbjerget and surrounding waterways. The fleet includes nine historic vessels available for sightseeing tours, private events, and boat rentals, providing an authentic journey through one of Denmark's most beautiful natural regions.
A brief summary to The Hjejle Agency
- Sejsvej 2, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- +4586820766
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3 pm
- Friday 9 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Book the classic Silkeborg-to-Himmelbjerget route for the most iconic experience; allow 2.5–3 hours total to include time hiking to the tower at the summit and enjoying the panoramic views.
- Visit during weeks 28–31 (July) for nonstop sailings departing from Himmelbjerget, offering a meditative hour of uninterrupted lake views—ideal for photography and quiet reflection.
- Arrive early in the day to secure outdoor seating on the upper deck, where you'll experience the best views of the forest-lined shores and wildlife, including birds and aquatic animals.
- Combine your cruise with a visit to Aqua at Brassø, accessible via boat landing stages, to explore the freshwater aquarium and animal park without leaving the water-based experience.
- For winter visits, inquire about festive cruises decorated with Christmas lights and featuring traditional Danish treats; these create memorable seasonal experiences unavailable during other months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus from Aarhus
Regional buses operate from Aarhus Central Station to Silkeborg town center, approximately 45–60 minutes depending on route and stops. Services run multiple times daily. From Silkeborg town center, the harbor at Sejsvej 2 is a 10–15 minute walk downhill toward the lakefront. Journey cost approximately 80–120 DKK return.
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Train from Aarhus
Direct train service operates from Aarhus Central Station to Silkeborg Station, approximately 50–60 minutes, with departures every 1–2 hours throughout the day. From Silkeborg Station, the harbor is a 15–20 minute walk or short taxi ride (approximately 60–100 DKK). Train tickets cost approximately 100–150 DKK return.
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Car from Aarhus
Drive approximately 45 km south from Aarhus via Route 16, taking 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. Follow signs to Silkeborg town center and the harbor area. Parking is available near the harbor office at Sejsvej 2. Fuel cost approximately 60–80 DKK; parking typically free or minimal charge.
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Bicycle from Silkeborg Town
Silkeborg is highly cycle-friendly with dedicated bike paths. The harbor is accessible via flat, scenic cycling routes from the town center, approximately 2–3 km, taking 10–15 minutes. Bike rental available at multiple locations in Silkeborg (approximately 80–120 DKK per day). This option offers flexibility and an immersive approach to the landscape.
The Hjejle Agency location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Hjejle Agency
A Living Monument to Maritime Heritage
SS Hjejlen stands as the world's oldest coal-fired paddle steamer still in operation with its original engine, launched on May 25, 1861, by Baumgarten & Burmeister in Copenhagen. Commissioned by Silkeborg's founder Michael Drewsen for 10,000 rigsdaler—twice his authorized budget—the vessel was officially inaugurated on June 24, 1861, with King Frederik VII and royal guests aboard. Today, Hjejlen is declared a historic monument by the Ship Preservation Foundation and celebrated as a national treasure. The steamship's twin-cylinder engine produces 50 horsepower, propelling the vessel at a leisurely 8 knots through the lakes, accommodating up to 130 passengers on benches arranged both above and below deck, inside and outside.The Hjejleselskabet Fleet and Diverse Vessels
Beyond Hjejlen, Hjejleselskabet operates a fleet of nine historic and modern vessels, each with distinct character and capacity. Ternen (1896), Turisten (1903), Falken (1909), and Hejren (1909) represent the golden age of Danish steamship travel, while Viking (1923), Tranen (1931), and Rylen (1948) extend the heritage into the mid-twentieth century. Mågen, the fleet's modern addition from 1996, provides contemporary comfort while maintaining the authentic experience. Each vessel is equipped with WiFi, and many feature sound systems and speakers. The boats range from intimate 46-passenger vessels to the flagship Hejren, accommodating up to 180 passengers, making the fleet adaptable for everything from quiet family outings to large corporate events.Scenic Routes Through the Lake District
The classic route from Silkeborg harbor to Himmelbjerget takes approximately 75 minutes each way, passing through the charming Remstrup Stream where forests embrace the water, creating a gradual transition from historic town to pristine nature. Travelers can disembark at multiple piers along the route or spend extended time at Himmelbjerget, where a distinctive tower crowns the hilltop and a play universe entertains younger visitors. Alternative routes depart from Ry harbor, sailing through Birksø with abundant wildlife, or offer nonstop sailings—described as modern mindfulness—across the glassy waters. The journey reveals the Silkeborg Lake District's defining characteristic: the interplay of cozy waterfront towns, withdrawn villas perched on slopes, and the mighty Julsø with its scattered islands of Lilleø, Alø, and Møgelø.Events, Celebrations, and Private Experiences
Hjejleselskabet transforms its vessels into floating venues for weddings, corporate functions, birthday celebrations, and private gatherings. The company provides comprehensive event coordination, including customized menus adapted for dietary requirements, professional service deckhands, and optional additional staff. Boats feature table seating arrangements—Hjejlen offers bench seating for 100, while Mågen provides table seating for 100 guests. Catering can be arranged through the company, or guests may bring their own food with drinks typically purchased on board or subject to corkage arrangements. The experience extends beyond a single evening; as the company philosophy states, great events live on in memories and conversations long after the celebration ends.Gateway to Culture and Natural History
Hjejleselskabet positions itself as the gateway to the Silkeborg Lake District from the water, offering a unique perspective on the region's culture and natural history. The company's purpose centers on sharing the local area with residents and visitors through excellent hospitality. Cruises pass near Aqua, Silkeborg's family-friendly nature experience center featuring a freshwater aquarium and animal park, accessible via landing stages at Brassø. The waterside journey reveals the landscape's ecological richness and historical significance, with the boats serving as floating platforms for experiencing the region's character. Seasonal offerings include festive cruises during winter months, when vessels are decorated with Christmas lights and the air fills with the aroma of æbleskiver, gløgg, and hot chocolate.Practical Operations and Accessibility
The harbor office is located at Sejsvej 2, 8600 Silkeborg, open daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Cruises operate year-round, with nonstop sailings from Himmelbjerget available during weeks 28–31 (July). The company welcomes all visitors and provides flexible programming—whether a round-trip cruise with onboard refreshments, multiple disembarks for walking breaks, or custom itineraries designed in consultation with the experienced crew. Gift cards and seasonal passes are available for purchase, and merchandise including Hjejle-gin and model boat kits can be found at the harbor office.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
silkeborg
0.2 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Silkeborg Water Tower
0.6 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
Lovisehøj
2.9 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
4.0 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Store Troldhøj
10.0 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
10.5 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Randershøj
10.5 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
10.9 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Bølling Lake
11.2 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
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
16.8 km
Explore Abbey Mill in Skanderborg: A picturesque blend of history and nature, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable experiences.
Øm Klostermuseum
17.8 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
20.3 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
20.7 km
Discover Jutland, Denmark: Explore Viking history, stunning nature, and family fun on the mainland peninsula, offering an authentic Danish experience.
The Uncovered Bridge
23.4 km
A hidden railway bridge buried for 85 years, spectacularly restored and now one of Denmark's most beloved landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum Silkeborg, Papirmuseet
0.1 km
A living paper workshop in Silkeborg’s old factory, where you watch pulp become sheets, learn about banknote paper and try your hand at this quietly magical craft.
Riverboat Jazz Festival
0.2 km
Swinging jazz, riverboats and long Nordic evenings fuse in Silkeborg’s lake district for a five-day celebration where the entire town becomes a waterside stage.
Kedelhuset
0.2 km
Intimate live music and performance venue in Silkeborg’s former paper mill boiler house, blending industrial charm with a modern black box concert hall.
Museum Silkeborg, Hovedgården
0.2 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.
Tollundmanden
0.2 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.
Statue of Michael Drewsen
0.4 km
Panoramic forested hilltop viewpoint steeped in royal legend, offering sweeping vistas over Silkeborg’s lakes and the lush Søhøjlandet landscape.
Slotsholmen
0.5 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views over Silkeborg's heather-clad hills and serene lakes at Kongestolen, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Springvand
0.5 km
Silkeborg Langsø’s towering fountain turns the town’s central lake into a stage of water and light, blending engineering spectacle with everyday lakeside life.
Silkeborg Søerne
0.6 km
Denmark's premier water gateway—paddle, cruise, and explore the pristine lakes of Søhøjlandet from the heart of Silkeborg.
Vægmaleri
0.6 km
Experience the tradition of Denmark’s lake steamers aboard Turbådene Himmelbjerget, a nostalgic boat journey bridging Ry, Silkeborg, and the legendary hill.
Galerie Moderne Silkeborg
0.7 km
One of Scandinavia’s largest modern art galleries, blending CoBrA masterpieces, contemporary works and a welcoming, free-to-enter space in central Silkeborg.
Silkeborg Archive
0.7 km
Silkeborg’s collective memory, preserving documents, images and stories that trace the lakeside city’s journey from industrial outpost to modern municipality.
Badeanstalten
0.7 km
Denmark's most authentic bathhouse—a historic Nordic wellness sanctuary preserving centuries of bathing tradition.
Dronningestolen
0.8 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
0.9 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.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant „ Cafe Perle ”
0.1 km
Relaxed, modern café-brasserie in the heart of Silkeborg, serving generous comfort food, brunch plates, coffee and desserts from morning through evening.
Restaurant Michael D.
0.2 km
Seasonal Nordic dining in Silkeborg’s converted paper mill, where industrial heritage, hotel comfort and riverside views meet beside the town’s cultural quarter.
Radisson Blu Hotel Papirfabrikken, Silkeborg
0.2 km
Industrial heritage meets riverside luxury in Denmark's lake district.
Sunset Boulevard
0.2 km
Casual Danish fast food with burgers, bites and kids’ meals in a bright, modern setting on Silkeborg’s Chr. d. 8.s Vej.
Skovbakken Silkeborg
0.2 km
Hilltop event restaurant with sweeping river and harbor views, hosting weddings, celebrations and meetings above Silkeborg’s green waterfront.
Café Kik
0.3 km
Waterfront café on the Gudenå river with quality Danish fare and scenic riverside views.
Evald - Brasserie & cafe
0.3 km
Classic French-inspired brasserie meets Danish hygge on the riverfront at Papirfabrikken, serving from morning coffee to late-night drinks with serene waterside views.
Bone's Silkeborg
0.3 km
Smoky ribs, flame-grilled steaks and family-friendly comfort food in Silkeborg’s regenerated Papirfabrikken riverside district.
Torvets Kebab & Pizza
0.3 km
Central Silkeborg’s no‑nonsense stop for generous kebab, salad‑topped pizzas and quick, budget‑friendly meals just a short stroll from the main town square.
Underhuset
0.4 km
Family‑run brasserie on Silkeborg’s central square, blending Danish classics and French‑inspired dishes with a cosy dining room and lively terrace on Torvet.
Jensens Bøfhus
0.4 km
Casual Danish steakhouse on Silkeborg’s main square, serving familiar grills, burgers and family-friendly favourites in relaxed, central surroundings.
Tin's
0.4 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.
Asian Restaurant & Café
0.4 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
0.4 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.
Regatta Sandwich
0.4 km
Freshly baked Italian sandwiches in the heart of Silkeborg—quality ingredients, casual charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Skovs Antik - Silkeborg
0.2 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.
Kop & Kande Silkeborg
0.3 km
Central Silkeborg homeware and gift store offering Scandinavian-style kitchenware, tableware and classic presents in a bright, practical high-street setting.
Elkjær Lingerie
0.3 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.
Søstrene Grene
0.3 km
Cosy Scandinavian lifestyle store on Østergade in Silkeborg, blending hygge-inspired home décor, creative supplies and playful design in a calm, maze-like setting.
HAUS · FRAU
0.3 km
Scandinavian women’s fashion in the heart of Silkeborg, blending timeless elegance, curated designer brands and attentive, personal service on lively Østergade.
DressLab
0.3 km
Scandinavian fashion curated for contemporary women in the heart of Silkeborg.
Imerco
0.3 km
Central Silkeborg homeware hub for Danish design, practical kitchen gear and cosy hygge accents, ideal for gifts, souvenirs and everyday essentials.
Leather by Corium
0.3 km
Boutique Nordic leather shop in Silkeborg’s Papirfabrikken district, offering timeless bags and accessories that blend Scandinavian design with everyday practicality.
Christoffersen Silkeborg A/S
0.3 km
Established jeweller on Silkeborg’s main square, blending classic gold and silver pieces, quality watches and attentive service in a calm, central setting.
Helm
0.4 km
Two centuries of Danish leather heritage meets contemporary design in Silkeborg's premier bag and luggage destination.
H&M
0.4 km
Central Silkeborg fashion stop combining global H&M style with small-town convenience on the lively Torvet square.
Bivs.dk
0.4 km
Silkeborg's dedicated children's clothing and toy specialist with extended daily hours.
Buksecompagniet
0.4 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Normal
0.4 km
Denmark's original discount retailer where treasure hunting meets affordability in quirky, welcoming surroundings.
Femilet
0.4 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
0.3 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
Café Kling Klang
0.4 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
The Admiral Pub
0.4 km
Classic Danish bodega bar in central Silkeborg, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday atmosphere from quiet daytime pints to late‑night weekend sessions.
Bakkens bodega
0.5 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.
Roxy Malt
0.6 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.
Cafe' Paradis
0.6 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.
Kaffebaren
0.6 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
0.6 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Sportspubben Målet
0.7 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.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
0.7 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
Bifrost Sports Pub
0.7 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
0.7 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
Rabalder Bar
0.7 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
The Smoke Pub
0.8 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.
Bodega Hjørnet
0.9 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
B'sharp - Silkeborg Rhythm Og Blues Association
0.6 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
27.5 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Vesterbro Pub
32.6 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.
ANDERS LAUSTSEN A/S
34.2 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.
Piano Herning
35.9 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.
Murphy's Pub
36.0 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
36.0 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.
Mindegade5
36.2 km
Experience the heartbeat of Herning's nightlife at Mindegade5, where music, dance, and celebration converge.
Fermaten
36.4 km
Experience Herning’s vibrant music scene at Fermaten, the city’s top venue for live concerts, cultural events, and dynamic nights out in central Jutland.
Scandic Opus Horsens
37.1 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.
Jazzens Venner
37.1 km
Experience live jazz performances in Randers' intimate and vibrant Jazzens Venner club.
Der Kuhstall Mønsted
38.2 km
Rural barn vibes meet late-night beats at this countryside nightclub near Viborg, where casual crowds, strong drinks and a compact dance floor power the weekend.
Sölibat Natklub
38.5 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
38.5 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.
Morzybitten
38.6 km
Experience the essence of Danish 'hygge' at Morzybitten, Horsens' premier barista and beer bar with live music.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Wheelchair Access