Kroghs Bænk
Elevated forest sanctuary with panoramic lake views and 19th-century heritage
Kroghs Bænk is a scenic viewpoint perched 45 meters above the southern shore of Almind Lake in Silkeborg's Vesterskov forest. Named after Frederik Ferdinand von Krogh, the first state forester, this peaceful vantage point offers expansive views across the lake and toward the town center. A wooden bench marks the spot, inviting visitors to pause and absorb the landscape. The location is easily reached via forest walking trails and serves as a key waypoint on the Silk Route, Silkeborg's signature 12-kilometer nature and culture circuit.
A brief summary to Kroghs Bænk
- Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds. The elevated position captures golden hour light beautifully, enhancing both the landscape and photography opportunities.
- Combine your visit with the Silk Route or Ørnsø Footpath walks to experience the broader forest ecosystem. The viewpoint works best as part of a longer exploration rather than an isolated stop.
- Bring binoculars during spring and autumn for bird watching. The forest's diverse canopy and proximity to Almind Lake create excellent conditions for observing woodpeckers, herons, and seasonal migrants.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the elevated position can expose you to wind. The narrow forest path may be muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
- Allow 15–20 minutes for the ascent from the lower forest paths. The climb is gentle but steady, making it accessible for most fitness levels while still providing a sense of achievement.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Walking from Silkeborg Town Center
From downtown Silkeborg, follow the marked Silk Route (white pictograms on poles) heading south toward the Art Centre Silkeborg Bad. The route is approximately 3 kilometers and takes 45–60 minutes. Kroghs Bænk is located at the eastern terminus of this circuit. The path is well-marked, mostly flat through town, then gently ascending through forest. No entrance fee required.
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Walking from Art Centre Silkeborg Bad
Begin at the Art Centre Silkeborg Bad sculpture park. Follow the forest walking route northeastward through Vesterskov for approximately 2 kilometers, taking 35–50 minutes. The path is narrow but clearly defined, passing through diverse forest with ancient beech trees. The final approach involves a gentle uphill section to the viewpoint. Suitable for all fitness levels.
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Cycling via the Silk Route
The complete Silk Route can be cycled in 60–90 minutes. From Silkeborg town center, follow the marked cycle route encircling the city. Kroghs Bænk is accessible via the eastern forest section. Bikes can be rented from several shops in town (approximately 100–150 DKK per day). The route includes some forest paths that may be challenging for road bikes; hybrid or mountain bikes are recommended.
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Public Transport and Walking Combination
Take local bus service to Silkeborg town center (services operate from surrounding towns; typical fares 40–80 DKK). From the bus station, walk or cycle to the Silk Route starting point near Art Centre Silkeborg Bad, then follow walking directions above. Total journey time from regional towns typically 1–2 hours including transit and walking.
Kroghs Bænk location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about Kroghs Bænk
A Forester's Legacy in the Forest
Kroghs Bænk takes its name from Frederik Ferdinand von Krogh, the first chief forester of Denmark's state forests. In Silkeborg, his memory is preserved not only through the street bearing his name but also through this elevated viewpoint nestled within the Vesterskov woodland on the southern edge of Almind Lake. The bench itself remains a tangible link to the 19th-century figure who shaped the region's forestry heritage, offering modern visitors a moment of reflection in a landscape he helped steward.Elevation and Panoramic Views
Rising 45 meters above the lake's surface, Kroghs Bænk commands sweeping vistas across Almind Lake and toward Silkeborg's town center. The elevated position transforms the viewpoint into a natural observatory where the interplay of water, forest, and distant architecture creates a constantly shifting panorama. Morning light often bathes the lake in soft gold, while afternoon shadows deepen the contours of the surrounding woodland. The bench itself becomes a frame for contemplation, positioned to maximize the visual experience of this Danish Lake District landscape.Gateway to Forest Biodiversity
The Vesterskov forest surrounding Kroghs Bænk represents one of Silkeborg's most ecologically rich areas. The woodland hosts more than 40 tree species, including ancient European beech trees exceeding 250 years in age, their gnarled trunks providing homes for woodpeckers, bats, and small songbirds. Conifers such as Douglas fir, European silver fir, and noble fir create a diverse canopy structure. In spring, the forest erupts with birdsong; in autumn, starling murmurations dance above the lake in a phenomenon locals call "bird flocks." The nearby Ørnsø lake footpath extends these ecological experiences, offering opportunities to observe kingfishers, herons, and waterfowl.Integration with Silkeborg's Walking Network
Kroghs Bænk functions as a vital waypoint within Silkeborg's extensive trail system. It anchors the eastern terminus of the Silk Route, a marked 12-kilometer circuit that weaves through the city's cultural and natural attractions. The viewpoint also connects to the Ørnsø Footpath, a 3-kilometer lake circuit, and the historic health-resort walking route linking former spa facilities. These interconnected paths allow visitors to construct walks of varying length and difficulty, from leisurely 30-minute strolls to full-day explorations of the Lake District landscape.Seasonal Transformations and Weather Patterns
The viewpoint experiences distinct seasonal character. Winter often brings frost-laden branches and occasional snow, transforming the forest into a crystalline landscape. Spring awakens the woodland with emerging foliage and intensifying bird activity. Summer provides lush canopy cover and warm afternoon light ideal for extended visits. Autumn delivers the most dramatic visual spectacle, with deciduous trees shifting through amber and crimson hues while conifer greens provide contrast. The elevated position occasionally experiences wind exposure, particularly during autumn and winter storms, adding a dynamic quality to visits during these seasons.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
2.0 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Silkeborg Water Tower
2.1 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
Lovisehøj
2.7 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
silkeborg
2.8 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
9.6 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
10.0 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Bølling Lake
11.0 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
Store Troldhøj
12.1 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Randershøj
12.3 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Landal Søhøjlandet
13.9 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.
Abbey Mill
15.0 km
Explore Abbey Mill in Skanderborg: A picturesque blend of history and nature, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable experiences.
Jutland's Automobile Museum
15.1 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.
Øm Klostermuseum
16.4 km
Discover Denmark's medieval monastic life at Øm Klostermuseum near Ry: Explore ruins, gardens, and artifacts revealing centuries of history and brewing traditions.
Jutland
18.4 km
Discover Jutland, Denmark: Explore Viking history, stunning nature, and family fun on the mainland peninsula, offering an authentic Danish experience.
Mossø
19.0 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Odderpassager
0.7 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.
AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park
1.2 km
Freshwater worlds, playful otters and splash-filled playgrounds come together in Silkeborg’s lake-district aquarium and Danish wildlife park.
Art Center
1.4 km
Contemporary art and nature converge in a historic health resort transformed into Denmark's most distinctive sculpture park experience.
Silkebog skulpturpark
1.5 km
A quiet corner of Silkeborg where contemporary sculptures and woodland paths blend into an open-air gallery, inviting slow walks, reflection and relaxed art encounters.
Silkeborg park
1.5 km
A tranquil sculpture‑studded green escape at Silkeborg Bad, where lakeside forest, gentle lawns and contemporary art meet on the edge of Denmark’s outdoor capital.
Silkeborg Bunkermuseum
1.5 km
Step into an original German WWII bunker in Silkeborg and discover how a quiet Jutland hillside became the nerve centre of Denmark’s wartime occupation.
Aboretet Silkeborg
1.5 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.
Befrielsesmonument i Silkeborg
1.7 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.
Indelukkets Friluftsscene
1.7 km
Historic open-air theatre hosting rock festivals, concerts, and cultural events in scenic Silkeborg parkland.
Knagerne Silkeborg
1.7 km
A small, protected pocket of old-growth woodland in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where crooked beeches, fallen trunks and deep quiet create an evocative forest escape.
Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo
1.8 km
A towering recycled-wood troll by Thomas Dambo, hidden in Silkeborg’s lakeside forest, where fairytale art, playful exploration and peaceful nature meet.
Museum Jorn, Silkeborg
1.8 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.
Badeanstalten
2.1 km
Denmark's most authentic bathhouse—a historic Nordic wellness sanctuary preserving centuries of bathing tradition.
Silkeborg Archive
2.2 km
Silkeborg’s collective memory, preserving documents, images and stories that trace the lakeside city’s journey from industrial outpost to modern municipality.
Galerie Moderne Silkeborg
2.2 km
One of Scandinavia’s largest modern art galleries, blending CoBrA masterpieces, contemporary works and a welcoming, free-to-enter space in central Silkeborg.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Karoline Amalie v/Rikke Brockstedt
1.1 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.
Orangeriet
1.3 km
Seasonal Nordic cuisine in a historic orangery surrounded by gardens and natural light.
Gl. Skovridergaard
1.3 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
1.8 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
2.0 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
2.0 km
Charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs and Middle Eastern specialties in casual Silkeborg dining.
Burger Beast Silkeborg
2.2 km
No-nonsense, juicy burgers with organic beef, soft buns and signature Beast dressing in a relaxed, central Silkeborg burger bar geared for eat-in and takeaway.
Green Habits
2.2 km
Fresh, fast and colourful bowls, wraps and burgers in central Silkeborg, where everyday “green” eating meets casual café comfort and easy takeaway.
Sabel - Restaurant og Bar
2.2 km
Seasonal cooking, crafted cocktails and intimate atmosphere come together at this central Silkeborg restaurant and bar with a cosy basement for private gatherings.
La Casita
2.2 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
2.3 km
Casual Silkeborg sandwich and tapas kitchen serving generous box lunches, easygoing takeaway and tailored catering from a friendly Tværgade storefront.
Flamingo Pizza V/Aydin Wahab
2.3 km
Casual, central Silkeborg pizzeria serving generous family trays, classic slices and hearty kebabs in a straightforward, budget-friendly setting on Nygade.
Restaurant Piaf
2.3 km
Intimate French gourmet dining in the heart of Silkeborg, where southern French roots, seasonal Nordic produce and thoughtful wines create long, lingering evenings.
Okkels Silkeborg ApS
2.3 km
Organic Italian-style gelato, eco-conscious details and a warm neighbourhood buzz in the heart of Silkeborg’s cosy Latin Quarter.
VIVI Mad- & Vinbar
2.3 km
Cosy Silkeborg wine bar and kitchen serving shareable plates, pizzas and a well-chosen wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting on Nygade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pindhus.dk
2.3 km
Hand-curated Scandinavian design, gifts, and lifestyle treasures in the heart of Silkeborg.
Fair Retro
2.4 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.
Huset Lene Bak Silkeborg
2.4 km
Welcoming women’s fashion boutique in central Silkeborg, specialising in quality jeans, flattering fits and personal styling in a calm, uncluttered setting.
t.i.n.g.
2.4 km
Scandinavian design paradise in central Silkeborg, offering two floors of curated furniture, lighting, interiors and gifts in a calm, inspiring boutique setting.
Børnenes Kartel Silkeborg
2.4 km
A Scandinavian-style toy and children’s universe in central Silkeborg, where quality play, creative decor and family-friendly service turn shopping into a playful outing.
Boemo
2.4 km
A cozy Silkeborg lifestyle store where Scandinavian interiors, curated fashion and gallery art come together in one calm, design-focused space.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
2.4 km
A compact burst of colorful Scandinavian design in central Silkeborg, perfect for quirky gifts, affordable homeware and playful everyday essentials.
Mr Silkeborg A / S
2.4 km
Refined menswear boutique in central Silkeborg, combining Danish and international brands with attentive, style-focused service for business, casual and occasion wear.
Companys Silkeborg
2.4 km
Modern Scandinavian womenswear in a calm, central Silkeborg boutique, ideal for curated wardrobe updates between café stops and city-center strolls.
Femilet
2.5 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
Buksecompagniet
2.5 km
Independent Silkeborg fashion store mixing timeless Scandinavian basics, denim and footwear with seasonal trends for both men and women on lively Søndergade.
Tenna Og Jens Kristian I/S
2.5 km
Family-run multibrand womenswear house in central Silkeborg, combining 400 m² of contemporary fashion, personal styling and Scandinavian labels on lively Vestergade.
Bustedwoman.com
2.5 km
Curated European fashion and personalized styling in Silkeborg's premier women's boutique.
Bog & idé - Silkeborg Vestergade
2.5 km
Silkeborg's beloved bookstore and stationery hub since 1930, offering books, office supplies, and gifts.
Bivs.dk
2.5 km
Silkeborg's dedicated children's clothing and toy specialist with extended daily hours.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bodega Hjørnet
1.8 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
2.1 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.
Sportspubben Målet
2.2 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
2.3 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
2.3 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
Zwei Grosse Bier Bar
2.3 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Bifrost Sports Pub
2.3 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
2.3 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
Roxy Malt
2.3 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 Admiral Pub
2.3 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
2.4 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Kaffebaren
2.4 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
Bakkens bodega
2.8 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.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
2.8 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
The Smoke Pub
3.4 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
2.2 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
26.7 km
Nightclub entertainment in Denmark's scenic Dyrehaven forest and lakeside setting.
Terminalen I/S v/Carl Erik Agnskov M.Fl.
34.9 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
34.9 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.
Piano Herning
35.1 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
35.2 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
35.2 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.
Scandic Opus Horsens
35.2 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.
Mindegade5
35.4 km
Experience the heartbeat of Herning's nightlife at Mindegade5, where music, dance, and celebration converge.
Fermaten
35.6 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.
ANDERS LAUSTSEN A/S
36.5 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.
Sölibat Natklub
36.6 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
36.6 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
36.7 km
Experience the essence of Danish 'hygge' at Morzybitten, Horsens' premier barista and beer bar with live music.
Kokomo Horsens
36.7 km
Three floors of colorful cocktails, big beats and tropical nightclub energy at the heart of Horsens’ weekend nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access