Springvandet ved Silkeborg Langsø
Northern Europe's grandest fountain transforms Silkeborg's lakeside with water jets soaring 33 meters high and mesmerizing evening light shows.
A Monument to Water and Light
Springvandet stands as one of Northern Europe's most impressive fountains, dominating the center of Silkeborg Langsø with its dramatic water displays. The fountain features five powerful jets capable of shooting water 33 meters into the air, creating an ever-changing spectacle that shifts with the time of day and weather conditions. When darkness falls, an elaborate lighting system illuminates the fountains in shifting colors, transforming the water into a canvas of moving light that reflects across the lake's surface.Engineering and Seasonal Operation
The fountain operates seasonally from May 1st through approximately September 20th, running daily from noon until 1 AM. At full capacity, the five jets pump 355,000 liters of lake water per hour through powerful mechanical systems. The fountain's operation is controlled by an integrated weather station that monitors wind speed and direction, automatically shutting down the system when conditions become hazardous. This safety feature prevents water from being blown onto nearby cyclists and vehicles along the lakeside road.A Landmark Reborn Through Renovation
Donated to Silkeborg in 1970, the fountain has become one of the town's defining symbols. The structure underwent comprehensive renovation in 2022, which modernized its systems while preserving its heritage. Following this restoration, only the original anchor on the lake bed remains from the initial installation, with all other components replaced or upgraded to contemporary standards. The renovation ensured the fountain would continue operating reliably for decades to come.Location and Accessibility
The fountain is positioned directly in front of Silkeborg's town hall on Søvej, the main lakeside road. This central location offers excellent visibility and accessibility from the town center. The fountain's placement represents a compromise reached after decades of operation: originally positioned farther out in the lake near the Odden forest area, it was relocated closer to shore to minimize disturbance to local wildlife. However, this proximity to the road created challenges with wind-blown spray affecting traffic, leading to the installation of the weather-monitoring system that now manages these conditions automatically.A Dynamic Visual Experience
The fountain's appearance varies dramatically depending on weather, time of day, and season. On calm, clear days, the water columns rise majestically against blue skies. As evening approaches and artificial lighting activates, the display transforms into a dynamic light show with colors shifting across the illuminated water. Wind conditions, day of the week, and seasonal factors all influence the fountain's behavior, ensuring that no two visits are identical. The interplay between natural sunlight, artificial illumination, and the fountain's powerful jets creates an experience that engages visitors throughout the day and into the evening hours.Local tips
- Visit during evening hours after dusk to experience the full impact of the synchronized light show, which illuminates the water in shifting colors and creates a dramatic reflection across the lake.
- Check wind conditions before visiting; strong winds from certain directions will trigger the automatic shutdown system, so calm days offer the most impressive displays.
- The fountain operates only from May 1st through mid-September, so plan your visit during these months. Daily operation runs from noon until 1 AM.
- Bring a camera or smartphone; the interplay of water, light, and reflections creates excellent photography opportunities, especially during the golden hour and after sunset.
- Arrive early in the evening to secure a good viewing spot along the lakeside promenade before the light show begins and crowds gather.
A brief summary to Springvand
- 8600, Søvej, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- +4589701351
Getting There
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Walking from Silkeborg Town Centre
From Silkeborg's central shopping area, walk toward the lakeside along pedestrian routes. The fountain is located directly on Søvej (the main lakeside road) in front of the town hall. Walking distance is approximately 300–500 meters depending on starting point, taking 5–10 minutes on flat, accessible paths with clear signage.
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Cycling from Central Silkeborg
Silkeborg is highly cycle-friendly with dedicated bike paths throughout the town. Follow lakeside cycling routes toward Søvej; the journey from the town center takes 5–15 minutes depending on your starting location. Free bike parking is available near the fountain and town hall area.
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Public Transport and Walking
Silkeborg Train Station is approximately 1.5 kilometers from the fountain. Local buses serve the town center; journey time from the station is 10–15 minutes by bus or approximately 20 minutes on foot. The final approach to the fountain is on flat, accessible terrain along the lakeside promenade.
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Parking and Walking
Paid parking is available at several locations near the town hall and lakeside area, with rates typically 20–40 DKK per hour. The fountain is a 2–5 minute walk from most parking areas. Street parking along Søvej is limited; dedicated car parks are recommended during peak summer season.
