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Soldatens Lod

Forest camping with Great Belt views, shelters, and fire pits in a former military landscape.

3.9

Soldatens Lod is a scenic camping and picnic ground located in Lystskoven forest southeast of Slagelse, Denmark. This former military exercise area offers shelters, fire pits, and drinking water facilities, making it an ideal destination for families, scout groups, and outdoor enthusiasts. The site features stunning views over the Great Belt strait and direct access to nature trails through mixed woodland and wetland areas.

A brief summary to Soldatens Lod

  • Slagelse, 4200, DK
  • Duration: 2 to 24 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

  • Book your shelter or fire pit at least three business days in advance if you want the municipality to provide firewood. Otherwise, bring your own wood or charcoal briquettes.
  • Wear waterproof footwear when exploring trails toward Rødhøjvej, as the eastern sections pass through wet, boggy terrain, especially after rainfall.
  • Visit the viewpoint areas along the eastern trails during clear weather to enjoy panoramic views across the Great Belt strait.
  • Bring your own drinking water containers or use the on-site water tap. The site has no food vendors, so pack provisions for your visit.
  • Check out the Stenmanden monument in nearby Sludstrup, visible from the shelter area, for a cultural addition to your nature visit.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From central Slagelse, drive southeast toward Lystskoven forest following signs for Drosselvejen. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Ample parking is available directly adjacent to the camping area. No parking fees are charged. The site is accessible year-round by vehicle.

  • Bicycle

    From Slagelse town center, cycle southeast on local routes toward Lystskoven, a journey of approximately 4–6 kilometers taking 20–30 minutes depending on your pace and route. Bike paths connect to the forest area. Bicycle parking facilities are not explicitly marked, but the open parking area accommodates bikes. This is a pleasant option during dry weather months.

  • Public Transport and Walking

    Local buses serve Slagelse with connections toward the Lystskoven area. Journey times vary by route, typically 15–25 minutes from the town center. From the nearest bus stop, a walk of 1–2 kilometers through or around the forest leads to Soldatens Lod. Walking times depend on the specific route and terrain conditions. This option works best during daylight hours and fair weather.

  • Walking from Studentersø

    If visiting the nearby Studentersø recreation area, Soldatens Lod is accessible via forest trails as a natural extension of that site. Walking time between the two areas is approximately 20–40 minutes depending on the exact route chosen. Trails are generally well-marked but can be muddy or wet, particularly in autumn and winter. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Soldatens Lod location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Cold Weather

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Discover more about Soldatens Lod

A Military Legacy Transformed into Public Recreation

Soldatens Lod occupies a unique place in Slagelse's landscape as a former military exercise zone that has been repurposed for public enjoyment. In 1988, Slagelse Municipality gained control of this area as compensation for a military tank track that had been routed through the southern section of Lystskoven forest. This transition from military use to civilian recreation has created a distinctive outdoor destination where visitors can experience nature while walking through terrain shaped by its historical past. The site remains part of the broader Antvorskov exercise grounds, but is now managed by the municipality to serve the community.

Facilities and Accommodation Options

The camping area provides multiple shelter options for overnight stays, including three permanent shelters and the ability to pitch your own tent. A fire pit area is freely available to all visitors, with the municipality providing firewood if the site is booked at least three business days in advance. Drinking water is supplied via a water tap on the grounds, and accessible toilet facilities are located near the shelter area, accommodating wheelchair users. Parking is readily available close to the site, making access convenient for visitors arriving by car.

Natural Setting and Scenic Vistas

The landscape of Soldatens Lod is characterized by the Lystskoven forest, a mixed woodland environment that transitions into wetland areas. Trails lead eastward toward Rødhøjvej, offering views across the Great Belt strait—a major waterway separating Zealand from Funen. The eastern approach trail passes through notably damp and boggy terrain, reflecting the area's natural hydrology. Picnic tables and benches are positioned along these trails to allow visitors to enjoy meals while taking in the expansive water views. The surrounding forest provides a sense of seclusion despite the site's proximity to Slagelse town.

Access and Terrain Characteristics

The main approach to Soldatens Lod follows a path from Drosselvejen that crosses a small bridge over a stream before reaching the camping area. The terrain is generally accessible, though the eastern sections toward Rødhøjvej become increasingly wet and marshy due to the presence of bog and wetland habitats. This natural moisture makes sturdy footwear advisable, particularly during wetter seasons. The site operates on a 24-hour basis with unrestricted access, allowing visitors to arrive and depart at any time. Nearby, the distinctive Stenmanden (Stone Man) monument in Sludstrup can be viewed from the shelter area, adding a cultural landmark to the natural experience.

Ideal for Groups and Community Activities

Soldatens Lod is specifically designed to accommodate smaller organizations such as scout groups, youth associations, and community gatherings. The site includes a dedicated fire house area that can be reserved for group use, with the municipality supplying firewood if booked in advance. Multiple fire pits allow simultaneous use by different groups. The open, flexible layout supports various outdoor activities while maintaining a natural environment. Visitors are asked not to cut branches from trees and bushes, preserving the woodland for future visitors.

Extension of the Studentersø Recreation Area

Soldatens Lod functions as a natural extension of the nearby Studentersø area, creating a larger recreational zone for families and friends seeking outdoor activities. Together, these spaces provide diverse options for picnicking, camping, and nature exploration within the Slagelse region. The interconnected nature of these areas allows visitors to explore multiple environments and experiences within a single outing.

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