Nøffelskoven med træskulpturer
Small, sculpture-filled Nøffelskoven is a young forest playground of winding paths, wooden art, fire circle and shelters between Sønderborg and Gråsten.
A young forest with a playful character
Nøffelskoven med træskulpturer is a compact, city-near woodland of around 5.8 hectares on the edge of Nybøl, between Sønderborg and Gråsten in Southern Jutland. Planted in 2009, it was designed from the outset as a welcoming green space rather than a dense, traditional production forest. Open glades, a small lake and gently curving paths criss-cross the area, creating an inviting landscape that feels manageable in size and easy to explore, even for younger children or less experienced walkers. The forest edges are soft and varied, with younger trees gradually giving way to meadows and views towards the surrounding farmland. This openness lets light filter in, so the atmosphere is bright rather than dark and enclosed. Seasonal changes are obvious here: fresh green leaves in spring, dense shade and tall grasses in summer, colourful foliage in autumn and bare, graphic silhouettes of trunks in winter.Wooden sculptures hiding among the trees
What sets Nøffelskoven apart is its collection of wooden sculptures placed along the paths and in small clearings. Locally carved figures, often whimsical or animal-inspired, invite you to slow down and look more closely at the forest. Many are carved from tree trunks or large logs, blending naturally with their surroundings while still surprising you as they appear around a bend. The sculptures add a playful, almost storybook dimension to the walk. Children often treat them as waypoints in a small treasure hunt, while adults can appreciate the craftsmanship and the way natural materials are reused. Over time, the wood ages, cracks and is colonised by mosses and fungi, becoming part of the forest ecosystem rather than standing apart from it.Fire circle, shelters and an outdoor amphitheatre
At the heart of Nøffelskoven you find a central activity area with a fire pit, simple amphitheatre-style seating and open shelters. This space functions as an outdoor living room for school groups, scouts, families and anyone planning a picnic or evening around the fire. The shelters can accommodate a sizeable group, offering covered wooden sleeping platforms and a sense of adventure for those staying overnight. Near the fire area, rough-hewn benches and low banks form an informal amphitheatre. It works well for storytelling, small performances, outdoor teaching or group gatherings. When not in organised use, it simply provides a quiet spot to sit and listen to birdsong, wind in the trees and the occasional crackle from the fire circle when it is in use.Easy forest paths and quiet nature moments
The trail network in Nøffelskoven consists mainly of broad, gently undulating paths and some narrower, more winding tracks closer to the pond and arboretum. Distances are short enough that you can comfortably complete a circuit without time pressure. Surfaces are mostly compacted earth or grass, which can be soft and muddy after rain but are generally easy to manage at a relaxed pace. Away from the central facilities, the mood becomes more tranquil. Birdlife is a constant presence, with song especially noticeable in spring and early summer. The small lake and wet areas draw insects, amphibians and waterfowl, while the young stands of trees provide cover for small mammals. It is a modest-scale nature experience, but one that feels accessible and close-at-hand.An outdoor classroom for all ages
Because of its size and layout, Nøffelskoven functions naturally as an outdoor classroom. The varied planting includes an arboretum section with many different Danish tree and shrub species, making it easy to compare leaves, bark and growth habits in one compact area. Information boards and simple wayfinding elements occasionally support this educational role. The combination of art, nature and basic facilities encourages a broad range of activities: simple mindfulness and quiet walks, playful exploration with children, basic bushcraft around the fire and informal gatherings in the amphitheatre. It is not a remote wilderness, but a manageable slice of forest where you can disconnect from daily routines without travelling far.Local tips
- Wear waterproof shoes or boots in wet weather, as the unpaved forest paths and areas around the pond can become muddy and slippery.
- Bring your own drinking water, snacks and firewood; there are basic shelters and a fire circle but no plumbed facilities on site.
- Plan extra time if visiting with children so they can follow the paths slowly, discover wooden sculptures and play near the central amphitheatre.
- If you intend to use the shelters for an overnight stay with a group, check local regulations and booking requirements in advance.
- Visit in different seasons to experience spring birdsong, lush summer greenery, colourful autumn leaves and the quiet, open feel of winter.
A brief summary to Nøffelskoven med træskulpturer
- Møllevej 4, Sønderborg, 6400, DK
Getting There
-
Car from central Sønderborg
From central Sønderborg, reaching Nøffelskoven by car typically takes 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. The route follows main local roads towards Nybøl and is straightforward, with mostly flat terrain. Parking is usually available near the forest edge at no additional cost, but spaces can be limited during group activities or school visits. Fuel costs are modest given the short distance, and there are no road tolls on this stretch.
-
Local bus within Sønderborg area
Local buses serving the Sønderborg–Gråsten corridor provide access to stops within walking distance of Nøffelskoven, with journey times typically 15–25 minutes from central Sønderborg. Services generally run throughout the day on weekdays, with reduced frequency in evenings and on weekends. A single adult ticket usually costs in the range of 20–30 DKK depending on zones. From the nearest stop you should expect a short, level walk on village roads and paths to the forest entrance.
-
Cycling from Sønderborg
Cycling from Sønderborg to Nøffelskoven generally takes about 25–35 minutes for an average rider. The route uses a combination of local roads and cycle-friendly stretches passing through gently rolling countryside, with no challenging climbs. Surfaces are mostly paved, making it suitable for city and touring bikes. There is no dedicated bike parking infrastructure inside the forest, but you can lock your bicycle to suitable fixtures near the entrance; remember to bring lights and reflective gear if returning after dusk.
