Stærke Storm – Thomas Dambo's Giant Wooden Troll
A colossal wooden troll crafted from recycled materials—where art, nature, and Nordic folklore converge near Silkeborg's serene lake.
Stærke Storm is a monumental wooden troll sculpture crafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, located near Ørnsø lake in Silkeborg. Standing as part of Dambo's global troll-hunting project, this intricately carved figure represents the artist's mission to transform recycled materials into whimsical public art. The sculpture draws visitors seeking adventure, art appreciation, and connection with Denmark's creative landscape.
A brief summary to Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo
- Gjessøvej 44, Silkeborg, 8600, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the troll's impressive scale and intricate details from multiple angles. The natural lakeside setting provides excellent lighting, especially during golden hour.
- Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Ørnsø lake and Art Centre Silkeborg Bad to maximize your time in the area and experience the broader cultural landscape.
- Check Thomas Dambo's official troll map online to locate other sculptures in Denmark and plan a multi-day troll-hunting adventure across the country.
- Visit during mild weather months (May to September) when the surrounding landscape is most vibrant and the lakeside setting is most enjoyable for extended exploration.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as reaching the sculpture involves walking through natural terrain and the surrounding area rewards further exploration on foot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
From central Silkeborg, drive approximately 3 kilometres south toward Ørnsø lake via Gjessøvej. The sculpture is located at Gjessøvej 44, 8600 Silkeborg, with parking available nearby. Journey time is approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Free parking is available in the immediate vicinity.
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Bicycle
Silkeborg is highly cycle-friendly. From the town centre, follow local cycling routes toward Ørnsø lake, approximately 3 kilometres south. The journey takes 10–15 minutes on flat terrain. Bicycle parking facilities are available near the sculpture location. This is an excellent option for exploring the surrounding lake landscape.
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Walking
From Silkeborg town centre, a scenic walk of approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour reaches Stærke Storm via lakeside paths and local trails. The route is relatively flat and passes through pleasant natural areas. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months.
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Public Transport
Local buses serve the Silkeborg area with connections to nearby towns. From Silkeborg bus station, regional services operate to surrounding areas. Journey times vary; check local timetables for current schedules. A combination of bus travel and short walking may be required to reach the sculpture. Typical fares range from 25–50 DKK depending on distance.
Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Stærke Storm af Thomas Dambo
The Vision Behind the Trolls
Stærke Storm is one of over 100 giant wooden trolls created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo as part of an ambitious worldwide project to combat waste and inspire wonder. Dambo, a self-described "dumpster diver," constructs each troll entirely from recycled and reclaimed materials, transforming discarded wood and objects into fantastical sculptures. The project transcends traditional art; it functions as a treasure hunt, with each troll hidden in locations across Denmark and beyond, inviting visitors to explore their surroundings and discover these whimsical guardians. Stærke Storm, numbered #065 in Dambo's collection, was completed in 2020 and has become a beloved landmark in the Silkeborg region.Location and Natural Setting
Positioned near Ørnsø lake, just south of Art Centre Silkeborg Bad, Stærke Storm occupies a serene landscape that complements its artistic presence. The lake setting provides a tranquil backdrop, with the sculpture emerging from the natural environment as if it has always belonged there. The location encourages visitors to venture beyond typical tourist routes, rewarding exploration with an encounter that blends art, nature, and Nordic folklore. The proximity to Silkeborg's cultural institutions makes the troll accessible while maintaining its sense of discovery and adventure.Artistic Craftsmanship and Scale
The sculpture's impressive scale immediately captures attention—visitors consistently report being surprised by its size and the meticulous detail of its construction. Dambo's craftsmanship is evident in every carved feature, from the troll's expressive face to its carefully proportioned limbs. The weathered wood texture and organic finish give Stærke Storm an authentic, timeless quality, as though the troll has emerged from ancient forests. The artist's commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect: no new materials are wasted, and the sculpture stands as a testament to the beauty and potential of reclaimed resources.Part of a Global Movement
Stærke Storm belongs to a broader phenomenon that has captured imaginations worldwide. Dambo's trolls now inhabit locations across Denmark, the United States, France, and beyond, each with its own story and character. The project encourages a form of contemporary treasure hunting, where enthusiasts track down trolls using maps and guides, creating a participatory art experience that extends far beyond passive viewing. This global network of sculptures has fostered a community of troll hunters and art lovers who share their discoveries and experiences, turning individual sculptures into nodes in an interconnected creative ecosystem.Cultural Significance and Folklore Connection
The trolls tap into Denmark's rich folkloric traditions, where trolls feature prominently in Nordic mythology and storytelling. By creating these sculptures, Dambo revives and reinterprets ancient cultural symbols for contemporary audiences, bridging past and present. Stærke Storm's name—meaning "Strong Storm"—evokes the powerful, untamed nature associated with trolls in traditional narratives. The sculpture invites reflection on how art can honor cultural heritage while addressing modern concerns like environmental sustainability and community engagement.The Experience of Discovery
Visiting Stærke Storm is as much about the journey as the destination. The sculpture's location near Ørnsø encourages visitors to explore the surrounding landscape, walk along the lake, and engage with the natural environment. Many visitors combine their troll hunt with other activities in Silkeborg, such as visiting the art centre or enjoying the region's lakes and forests. The experience transforms a simple art viewing into an adventure, making it memorable for families, solo travelers, and art enthusiasts alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Silkeborg Vesterskov mindesten
1.0 km
A modest memorial stone in Silkeborg Vesterskov, where forest tranquillity and wartime history meet in a quiet, contemplative woodland clearing.
Silkeborg Water Tower
2.5 km
A heritage-listed industrial landmark symbolising Silkeborg's textile manufacturing legacy.
silkeborg
3.2 km
Historic 1871 railway landmark connecting Central Jutland with frequent regional services and heritage charm.
Lovisehøj
4.4 km
A 73-meter forest hill with royal heritage and sweeping views across Danish lakes and woodlands.
Bølling Lake
9.2 km
A restored glacial lake offering scenic walks, excellent fishing, and peaceful nature immersion in central Jutland.
Himmelbjerget rutebåd
11.4 km
Denmark's highest point crowned by a historic tower, accessible by scenic lake cruise or forest trail.
Folkemøde Mindesten anno 1839
11.7 km
Denmark's first democratic gathering, 1839—where ordinary citizens claimed their political voice.
Store Troldhøj
13.1 km
A cone-shaped summit offering panoramic valley views and a climbing tree in Denmark's scenic lake district.
Randershøj
13.5 km
A scenic hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across Denmark's lake-filled landscape and forest-covered terrain.
Landal Søhøjlandet
15.1 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
16.3 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
16.5 km
Explore Abbey Mill in Skanderborg: A picturesque blend of history and nature, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable experiences.
Jutland
17.6 km
Discover Jutland, Denmark: Explore Viking history, stunning nature, and family fun on the mainland peninsula, offering an authentic Danish experience.
Øm Klostermuseum
18.1 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
20.7 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
Silkeborg park
0.4 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
0.4 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.
Silkebog skulpturpark
0.5 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.
Art Center
0.5 km
Contemporary art and nature converge in a historic health resort transformed into Denmark's most distinctive sculpture park experience.
Kroghs Bænk
1.8 km
Central Jutland’s award-winning safari and wildlife park, where visitors can encounter exotic animals, participate in immersive experiences, and explore vast open landscapes.
Knagerne Silkeborg
2.0 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.
MOSES
2.2 km
Discover leading Danish and international contemporary art in the heart of Silkeborg, with exhibitions, events, and a welcoming, creative atmosphere at Galerie Moderne.
Scandic Silkeborg
2.2 km
Scandinavian comfort by the lake: a pool, forest paths and flexible spaces on Silkeborg’s tranquil green edge.
Odderpassager
2.3 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.
Badeanstalten
2.4 km
Denmark's most authentic bathhouse—a historic Nordic wellness sanctuary preserving centuries of bathing tradition.
Silkeborg Archive
2.4 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
2.4 km
One of Scandinavia’s largest modern art galleries, blending CoBrA masterpieces, contemporary works and a welcoming, free-to-enter space in central Silkeborg.
Funder Ruin
2.6 km
A colossal Ice Age boulder quietly resting in the fields near Silkeborg, where ancient geology, rural calm and subtle Danish folklore meet in one modest landmark.
Vægmaleri
2.6 km
Experience the tradition of Denmark’s lake steamers aboard Turbådene Himmelbjerget, a nostalgic boat journey bridging Ry, Silkeborg, and the legendary hill.
AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park
2.6 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 Spyd
2.3 km
Charcoal-grilled Turkish kebabs and Middle Eastern specialties in casual Silkeborg dining.
Ristorante Pizzeria Roma
2.4 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.
Burger Beast Silkeborg
2.4 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
2.4 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
2.4 km
Seasonal cooking, crafted cocktails and intimate atmosphere come together at this central Silkeborg restaurant and bar with a cosy basement for private gatherings.
Orangeriet
2.5 km
Seasonal Nordic cuisine in a historic orangery surrounded by gardens and natural light.
Gl. Skovridergaard
2.5 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.
Flamingo Pizza V/Aydin Wahab
2.5 km
Casual, central Silkeborg pizzeria serving generous family trays, classic slices and hearty kebabs in a straightforward, budget-friendly setting on Nygade.
Okkels Silkeborg ApS
2.5 km
Organic Italian-style gelato, eco-conscious details and a warm neighbourhood buzz in the heart of Silkeborg’s cosy Latin Quarter.
Restaurant Piaf
2.5 km
Intimate French gourmet dining in the heart of Silkeborg, where southern French roots, seasonal Nordic produce and thoughtful wines create long, lingering evenings.
VIVI Mad- & Vinbar
2.5 km
Cosy Silkeborg wine bar and kitchen serving shareable plates, pizzas and a well-chosen wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting on Nygade.
La Casita
2.5 km
Colorful Mexican comfort food, tequila and hygge in a cozy, rustic cantina right on Bindslevs Plads in the heart of Silkeborg.
Gusto Silkeborg
2.6 km
Savor delicious sandwiches, pizzas, and salads at Gusto Silkeborg – your culinary stop in the heart of Denmark.
Joci Sushi
2.6 km
Casual, central Silkeborg sushi spot with generous platters, warm purple-toned interiors and a strong takeaway culture on lively pedestrian Nygade.
Marco Polo - Silkeborg
2.6 km
Authentic Italian and Brazilian cuisine in cozy Silkeborg surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pindhus.dk
2.6 km
Hand-curated Scandinavian design, gifts, and lifestyle treasures in the heart of Silkeborg.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
2.6 km
A compact burst of colorful Scandinavian design in central Silkeborg, perfect for quirky gifts, affordable homeware and playful everyday essentials.
Fair Retro
2.6 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.
Børnenes Kartel Silkeborg
2.6 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
2.6 km
A cozy Silkeborg lifestyle store where Scandinavian interiors, curated fashion and gallery art come together in one calm, design-focused space.
Mr Silkeborg A / S
2.6 km
Refined menswear boutique in central Silkeborg, combining Danish and international brands with attentive, style-focused service for business, casual and occasion wear.
Huset Lene Bak Silkeborg
2.6 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.
2.6 km
Scandinavian design paradise in central Silkeborg, offering two floors of curated furniture, lighting, interiors and gifts in a calm, inspiring boutique setting.
Companys Silkeborg
2.7 km
Modern Scandinavian womenswear in a calm, central Silkeborg boutique, ideal for curated wardrobe updates between café stops and city-center strolls.
Bog & idé - Silkeborg Vestergade
2.7 km
Silkeborg's beloved bookstore and stationery hub since 1930, offering books, office supplies, and gifts.
Tenna Og Jens Kristian I/S
2.7 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
2.7 km
Curated European fashion and personalized styling in Silkeborg's premier women's boutique.
Femilet
2.8 km
Premium Scandinavian lingerie and intimate wear for women seeking comfort, quality, and perfect fit.
b.young Silkeborg
2.8 km
A contemporary Danish womenswear boutique in central Silkeborg, offering accessible Scandinavian style, versatile outfits and relaxed, easy-going browsing.
Buksecompagniet
2.8 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
2.3 km
A cosy corner bodega in central Silkeborg, where dim lights, cold beer and easy conversation capture the timeless charm of Danish bar culture.
Rabalder Bar
2.4 km
Cozy living‑room bar in Silkeborg serving affordable drinks, sing‑along hits and late‑night party vibes in a compact, homey setting.
The bar Silkeborg ApS
2.5 km
Intimate late-night bar on Nygade in central Silkeborg, mixing easygoing pub charm with nightclub energy from evening drinks to early-morning dancing.
Bifrost Sports Pub
2.5 km
Silkeborg's premier sports bar for live action, cold drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Butchers Silkeborg
2.5 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Silkeborg, serving high-energy music, simple drinks and a youthful party vibe on weekend nights.
Sportspubben Målet
2.5 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
2.5 km
Alpine-inspired après-ski party bar with karaoke, beer pong, and group celebrations in central Silkeborg.
Cafe' Paradis
2.6 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.
Roxy Malt
2.6 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.
Kaffebaren
2.6 km
Neighbourhood-style coffee bar on Vestergade in Silkeborg, pairing carefully made espresso drinks and iced coffees with a cosy, Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
The Admiral Pub
2.7 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
2.7 km
Intimate, candlelit bar-café on Silkeborg’s Søndergade, blending everyday hygge, music and drinks in a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
NO 21 -Tapas & vinbar i Silkeborg
3.2 km
Riverside tapas and wine bar with curated selections and panoramic river views in central Silkeborg.
Bakkens bodega
3.5 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.
Woodys Aps
3.7 km
Experience the warm ambiance and diverse drinks at Woodys Aps, a central bar in Silkeborg.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
- Quirky
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Sustainable
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
