Mommark Marina
A restored maritime gem where working fishermen, award-winning cuisine, and Blue Flag beaches meet scenic Danish coastline.
A Harbor Reborn: Maritime Heritage and Modern Restoration
Mommark Marina stands on the eastern shore of Als island, a small but thriving harbor that has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Once nearly abandoned and neglected, the site has been painstakingly restored to reclaim its former glory as a working maritime community. Today, it serves as a living testament to Denmark's fishing heritage while welcoming modern visitors seeking authentic coastal experiences. The harbor basin ranges from 2.3 to 5 meters deep, with the entrance dredged annually to 2.8 meters each April, ensuring safe passage for sailboats and fishing vessels throughout the season.The Working Harbor: Where Tradition Meets Daily Life
Unlike many tourist-focused marinas, Mommark remains a genuine working harbor home to two commercial fishermen who enhance the maritime atmosphere as they return with their daily catch. These local fishermen sell fresh fish directly from their boats, creating an authentic waterfront experience that connects visitors to the region's fishing traditions. The marina's own smokehouse produces smoked fish that has earned particular praise, offering a taste of traditional Danish seafood preparation. This blend of active commerce and visitor hospitality creates a unique character—the harbor pulses with real maritime activity rather than serving purely as a leisure destination.Dining and Culinary Excellence by the Water
The Mommark Marina Seaside Bistro Café & Grill has become a focal point of the harbor, awarded Denmark's best camping restaurant by ACSI in 2025. The establishment offers far more than casual fare, with a carefully curated menu featuring fresh seafood, meat dishes, and Danish specialties. The café serves traditional Danish hot dogs and premium ice cream alongside wine and beer selections, with views extending across the marina and the Little Belt strait. Grill areas with panoramic vistas provide additional dining options, and the kitchen-lounge facilities within the modern service building allow guests to prepare their own meals if preferred.Beach, Nature, and Outdoor Recreation
Adjacent to the marina lies a private sandy beach designated as a Blue Flag beach, indicating high environmental and safety standards. The beach welcomes swimmers of all ages and provides a natural extension of the harbor experience. Beyond the waterfront, Mommark is surrounded by beautiful countryside with established hiking trails that wind through the landscape, offering peaceful escapes into South Jutland's natural character. The area's combination of water-based activities—swimming, fishing, boat rental, and fishing trips—alongside terrestrial exploration makes it suitable for diverse visitor interests.Modern Facilities and Year-Round Services
The marina's modern 3-star service building provides comprehensive facilities including toilets, showers, and a kitchen-lounge area. Additional amenities include electricity, water supply, Wi-Fi connectivity, washing and drying machines, bike rental, a slipway for boat maintenance, a playground for children, and a defibrillator for emergency response. These facilities support both day visitors and those staying at the adjacent campground, which operates seasonally from late March through late September. The infrastructure reflects ongoing investment in visitor comfort while maintaining the harbor's authentic character.Accessibility and Seasonal Considerations
Direct bus connections link Mommark Marina to the nearby town of Sønderborg, providing public transport access for those without personal vehicles. The location's relative isolation—approximately 5 kilometers from the nearest grocery store—contributes to its appeal as a retreat destination while requiring some planning for self-catering visitors. The campground's seasonal operation reflects the Danish climate, with the peak season aligning with warmer months when water activities and outdoor recreation are most enjoyable. This rhythm connects the marina to natural seasonal patterns rather than operating as a year-round commercial facility.Local tips
- Visit during the operating season (late March to late September) when the campground, café, and all facilities are fully open. The marina is closed for power and water supply until March 28, 2026.
- Order fresh smoked fish from the marina's own smokehouse or directly from the resident commercial fishermen's boats—this is the signature local experience and not available elsewhere.
- Arrive early for lunch at the Seaside Bistro Café & Grill to secure waterfront seating with views of the Little Belt, especially on weekends during peak season.
- Bring a bicycle or rent one on-site to explore the surrounding hiking trails and countryside; the marina's relative isolation makes cycling an ideal way to discover the region.
- Plan grocery shopping before arriving, as the nearest store is 5 kilometers away; alternatively, use the service building's kitchen-lounge to prepare meals with provisions brought from town.
A brief summary to Mommark Marina
- Mommarkvej 380, Sydals, Mommark, 6470, DK
- +4574407700
- Visit website
Getting There
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Car
From Sønderborg town center, drive south on Route 6 toward Sydals, then follow local roads to Mommarkvej. The journey takes approximately 20–25 minutes (about 15 kilometers). Parking is available on-site at the marina. Note: The marina is closed for power and water supply until March 28, 2026.
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Public Bus
Direct bus connections operate between Sønderborg and Mommark Marina. Journey time is approximately 30–40 minutes depending on the service. Buses run regularly during the operating season (late March to late September). Check local timetables for current schedules and frequencies.
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Bicycle
From Sønderborg, cycling to Mommark Marina takes approximately 45–60 minutes (about 12 kilometers) via scenic rural routes. The route is relatively flat and suitable for recreational cyclists. Bike rental is available at the marina itself if you arrive without a bicycle.
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Boat
Sailors can approach via the Little Belt. The harbor entrance is dredged to 2.8 meters annually in April, and the basin ranges from 2.3 to 5 meters deep. Modern mooring facilities and full services are available. Contact the harbor master directly at +45 74 40 77 00 for slip availability and current conditions.
