Historiske Vandringer – På sporet af 1. verdenskrig: Sønderjylland’s Hidden Battlefield Trails
Explore evocative WWI-era hiking trails in Sønderborg, where rolling landscapes, hidden bunkers, and local stories bring Sønderjylland’s borderland history to life.
Tucked along the coast of Sønderborg, this immersive hiking area invites history enthusiasts and outdoor lovers to explore the landscapes shaped by World War I. The Historiske Vandringer – På sporet af 1. verdenskrig offers thoughtfully curated walking trails where remnants of frontlines, bunkers, and peaceful pastures tell the story of Sønderjylland’s unique role on the border between Denmark and Germany.
A brief summary to Historiske Vandringer – På sporet af 1. verdenskrig
- Strandvej 2A, Sønderborg, 6400, DK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear—even in summer, portions of the trails can be uneven or muddy after rain.
- Pick up a trail map at local tourist offices to discover lesser-known detours and sites.
- Many information signs are bilingual (Danish/German), but bringing a translation app helps with local plaques.
- In early summer, wildflowers are especially abundant along the meadows and old embankments.
- Allow time for a break in Sønderborg’s harbourfront cafés—a great spot to reflect and soak up local atmosphere after your walk.
Getting There
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Walking
Once you reach Sønderborg’s waterfront or the central bus station, the starting point for the WWI trails is within a comfortable 10–20-minute walk. The harbor is an easy orientation point—just make your way toward the scenic seafront, passing the distinctive castle and marina before reaching the trailhead. No entry fee applies for the walking area.
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Public Transport
Buses serving Sønderborg’s main station arrive frequently from across Sønderjylland, with single fares typically 24–35 DKK. From the station, local connecting buses or a short walk bring you to the trail area, with stops near prominent waterfront landmarks and museums.
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Car
If driving, visitors can use public parking areas near Sønderborg’s center or harbor, usually around 8–15 DKK per hour. On busy weekends, parking closer to the trail entrance may require patience or a short additional walk from a larger lot.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Sønderborg city center or most hotels takes about 5–10 minutes and typically costs 60–90 DKK, depending on demand and traffic.
Discover more about Historiske Vandringer – På sporet af 1. verdenskrig
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Windmill
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Denmark's iconic windmill and national symbol of resilience, rebuilt after war and transformed into a living museum of history.
Iskonditoriet
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Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
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A vibrant family-friendly playground in central Roskilde, Byparkens Legeplads offers open-air fun, creativity, and relaxation in the heart of the city’s beloved Byparken.
Memory stone
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A modest monument on Sønderborg’s town-hall square, the Memory Stone offers a quiet pause for reflection amid the everyday bustle of this historic border town.
Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
0.7 km
Hidden beneath Kongevej lies Sønderborg’s former Cold War nerve center, an underground command bunker built to keep the city running in times of crisis.
Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
1.5 km
Discreet harborfront memorial in Sønderborg honoring eleven young German sailors executed for mutiny in 1945, inviting quiet reflection on conscience and war.
Mindesten for Røde Kors
2.1 km
A quiet memorial to the world's first Red Cross observers amid Denmark's most historic battlefield.
Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
2.3 km
Memorial marker honoring Danish reunification and the 1864 battle's fallen defenders on a historic fortification site.
Tysk skanse X
2.3 km
Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
King's Redoubt
2.3 km
A preserved 1864 military fortress symbolizing Danish resilience and regional heritage.
Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
2.5 km
A modest stone on Sønderborg’s former shooting range honouring two fallen wartime servicemen, inviting a brief but powerful pause for remembrance and reflection.
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
7.1 km
A quiet stone marking Denmark's liberation and Vester Sottrup's wartime legacy.
Foundation country Schäferhaus
30.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Bregninge Kirke
33.5 km
Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Forladt skorsten
34.3 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sønderborg Beach
0.0 km
Pristine Danish beach with family-friendly waters, stunning sunsets, and a diving pier—perfect for seaside relaxation and photography.
Fluepapiret
0.1 km
A compact, unspoiled urban beach where locals gather to swim in the Baltic's gentle waters.
Genforeningssten i Sønderborg
0.2 km
A monumental tribute to Denmark's 1920 reunification, nestled near historic Sønderborg Castle.
Sønderborg Castle
0.3 km
Centuries of royal drama, borderland wars and Southern Jutland stories unfold inside this waterfront fortress‑turned‑museum on the Alssund.
Dybbøl Strand
0.4 km
A peaceful Danish strand where sandy shores meet centuries of history and heritage.
Visselulles Have
0.4 km
Small in size but rich in stories, Visselulles Have is a tranquil memorial garden that honours Sønderborg’s legendary female dockworker in her old neighbourhood.
Rådhustorvet
0.5 km
Historic town square with a 16th‑century former town hall, Rådhustorvet is a compact, atmospheric hub in Sønderborg’s old quarter.
Spanske trappe
0.5 km
A once-grey stairway turned into a colourful nature mural, the Spanske Trappe is Sønderborg’s playful urban shortcut and small-scale landmark between two city streets.
Vægmalerierne på Nørre Havnegade
0.7 km
Colorful gable murals on Sønderborg’s harborfront, where evolving large-scale artworks turn an everyday building into a vivid portrait of local life and heritage.
Ringridermuseet i Sønderborg
0.7 km
Danmarks eneste ringridermuseum i et bindingsværkshus fra 1643, hvor lanser, medaljer og lokale fortællinger bringer Sønderborgs festlige tradition til live.
Hønekilden
0.7 km
A tiny harbor-side spring where pure water, royal engineering and whispering legends blur into a tranquil urban nook of art and history.
Selfiebænken - Big yellow
0.8 km
Sønderborg's cheerful yellow bench—a playful symbol of local creativity and the perfect photo moment.
Sønderborghus
0.9 km
Cosy cultural house in central Sønderborg, blending live music, creative workshops and a welcoming café into one relaxed, community-focused venue.
Rønhaveplads
1.0 km
A peaceful, local-favorite park offering tranquil ponds, leafy lawns, and family-friendly relaxation just outside Sønderborg’s city center. Free, welcoming, and authentic.
Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig
1.0 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sønderborg at Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig, where history and interactive exhibits come to life.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Da Nico
0.3 km
Authentic Italian brick-oven pizza and homemade pasta in the heart of Sønderborg.
Grey Ghost ApS
0.3 km
Candlelit Danish brasserie in Sønderborg’s old town, blending hygge, seasonal cooking and carefully chosen wines in a warm, intimate setting.
Karikatur Restaurant og Bar i Sønderborg
0.3 km
Modern Nordic plates and inventive cocktails come together in a clean-lined, harbor-close restaurant that anchors Sønderborg’s contemporary dining scene.
Biehl
0.3 km
Honest Danish comfort food in the heart of Sønderborg's main street.
Fox And Hounds
0.3 km
Scottish-style gastropub in central Sønderborg, pairing hearty ribs, burgers and steaks with an expansive beer and whisky selection in a warm, wood-paneled setting.
Cafe Stjernen
0.3 km
Hearty Danish café classics, candlelit brasserie ambience and specialty beers in the heart of Sønderborg’s compact historic centre.
Niso Sushi ApS
0.3 km
Lively running-sushi and Vietnamese restaurant in the heart of Sønderborg, serving endless plates of sushi and Asian bites in a relaxed, central setting.
Bella Italia
0.3 km
Cozy Italian restaurant and small hotel in Sønderborg’s historic heart, pairing brick-vaulted charm with classic pizzas, pasta, and relaxed evening dining.
Hotel Bella Italia
0.4 km
A cozy Nordic-style boutique stay with a lively Italian trattoria downstairs, set right in the historic heart of Sønderborg.
Lazy Dog Burgers - Worldclass Burgers from Sønderborg
0.4 km
World-class burgers and cocktails in the heart of historic Sønderborg
Mongolian Barbecue
0.4 km
Create-your-own stir-fries on a sizzling grill at this lively Asian buffet in central Sønderborg, mixing Mongolian barbecue theatre with Chinese favourites and casual comfort.
Bistro Grand Mère
0.5 km
Harborfront French bistro in Sønderborg, blending classic Gallic comfort dishes, thoughtful wines and a cozy green-paneled setting with views of the lively marina.
The Grand Café
0.5 km
Elegant Danish dining on Sønderborg's main square, where refined cuisine meets genuine hospitality.
Restaurant Colosseum
0.5 km
Harbourfront Danish comfort food in a cosy, family-friendly setting with views over Sønderborg’s waterfront and a welcoming slice of Southern Jutland hygge.
Kong Kian Sønderborg
0.5 km
Central Sønderborg fast‑casual spot for roasted chicken, spareribs and build‑your‑own sandwiches, serving from lunchtime through late night right on Rådhustorvet.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Normal
0.6 km
Bright, budget‑friendly beauty and everyday essentials in the heart of Borgen Shopping, perfect for quick top‑ups and casual browsing between Sønderborg sights.
Twizt Fashion
0.6 km
Compact Danish fashion and lingerie boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, combining everyday practicality with relaxed, personal service.
Mr Klausen Herre-og Drengetøj
0.6 km
Classic Danish mens- and boyswear on Sønderborg’s Perlegade, blending everyday essentials, occasion outfits and local Ringridning traditions in one friendly shop.
Borgen
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Sønderborg's complete shopping experience: 40 stores, dining, cinema, and culture under one roof.
JACK & JONES
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Straightforward Scandinavian menswear in the heart of Borgen Shopping, ideal for denim, casual basics and smart-casual outfits under one convenient indoor roof.
Zizzi - Sønderborg
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Modern plus-size fashion for women in the heart of Sønderborg’s Borgen Shopping centre, combining Scandinavian style, generous sizing and friendly fit-focused advice.
Jim P.
0.6 km
Curated fashion for discerning shoppers seeking distinctive style beyond the mainstream.
NEYE Borgen
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Modern Danish bag and luggage specialist in Borgen Shopping, offering quality brands, expert guidance and everyday purchases that help fund cancer research.
Viller
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Independent women’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and personal, one-to-one service.
ONLY
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Scandinavian high-street style, denim-focused collections and easy everyday fashion inside Borgen Shopping in the heart of Sønderborg.
Kings & Queens
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Contemporary multi-brand fashion in central Sønderborg, blending Scandinavian style, casual streetwear, and easygoing boutique vibes for men and women.
Tøjeksperten
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Denmark's largest menswear chain brings premium brands and accessible style to central Sønderborg.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Scandinavian creativity and affordable joy in Sønderborg's premier shopping destination.
Vero Moda
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Contemporary Scandinavian women’s fashion inside Borgen Shopping, offering wearable trends, layering pieces and accessories in Sønderborg’s central retail district.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
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Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nebula.dk ApS
0.4 km
Atmospheric shisha lounge and cocktail bar in Sønderborg’s historic center, offering intimate lighting, cozy seating and slow-paced evenings for adults.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
0.4 km
Lively late‑night bar in central Sønderborg serving cocktails, beer and loud tunes from evening warm‑up to near‑club energy on weekend nights.
Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
0.4 km
Tiny in size but big on volume, Rabalder Bar Sønderborg packs sing‑along hits, simple drinks and late‑night energy into one compact old‑town party den.
Visselulles Vinbar
0.4 km
Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
SKAAL Sønderborg
0.5 km
Modern craft beer bar and kitchen on Sønderborg’s main square, pouring rotating Danish brews and serving hearty comfort food in a stylish, urban setting.
Heidi's Bier Bar Sønderborg
0.5 km
Loud alpine-themed beer hall and late-night party bar bringing après-ski energy, big steins and sing-along hits to Sønderborg’s central Rådhustorvet.
Old Danish Pub
0.5 km
Classic hygge-filled pub near Sønderborg’s main square, with affordable drinks, games, sports on screen and lively karaoke evenings on two cosy floors.
Bar' Vinbar
0.5 km
Central Sønderborg’s relaxed corner wine bar, pouring around 50 wines by the glass plus cocktails, coffee and light bites in a warm, informal atmosphere.
the tea house
0.6 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
Den Lille Vinbar
0.6 km
Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
0.9 km
Intimate, association-run jazz club in central Sønderborg, serving up New Orleans–inspired live music, close-up performances and a friendly, community atmosphere.
Caféen
1.0 km
Lively, low‑priced bar inside Sønderborg’s Alsion complex, where students and locals meet for music, dancing and late‑night drinks by the harbour.
Restaurant Viking - Pool and billiards Sønderborg
1.0 km
Authentic Danish neighborhood pub where locals gather for affordable drinks, billiards, and genuine community atmosphere.
Freia Bar & Lounge
1.1 km
Harbourfront hotel bar with Nordic myth touches, crafted drinks and hygge-rich lounge seating overlooking Sønderborg’s Alssund and skyline.
Værtshus Chr. Iv
1.1 km
Classic brown beer hall on Sønderborg’s main street, serving simple drinks, local atmosphere and everyday Danish hygge from late morning into the evening.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kaizen ApS
0.3 km
Compact disco-style nightclub in central Sønderborg, pulsing with late-night beats, colourful lights and a straightforward bar for an unpretentious night out.
Dance All Over
7.1 km
Sønderborg’s sociable dance hub, where fitness, swing and party-ready moves come together in energetic, community-driven classes across the city.
Ærø Whiskey Destilleri
40.0 km
Experience the artisanal charm of Ærø Whisky Distillery in Ærøskøbing, where local ingredients and traditional methods create unique island whiskies.
Ærø Jazzfestival
40.1 km
Experience the soul of Danish jazz at Ærø Jazzfestival, where international rhythms meet island heritage in the historic harbor of Ærøskøbing each summer.
Ela-Ela Schleswig
43.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Schleswig at Ela-Ela, where music and dancing come alive in an unforgettable disco experience.
VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig
44.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig, a lively night club perfect for dancing and socializing until dawn.
Ommel
44.9 km
A small, sociable island nightspot near Marstal where locals and travelers share quiet drinks, simple music and the easygoing charm of Ærø after dark.
TANZ-FABRIK / Tanzlokal
45.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Schleswig at TANZ-FABRIK, where music and dance create unforgettable memories every Saturday night.
Discothek Vineta
49.7 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Busdorf at Discothek Vineta, where vibrant music and dancing await in a welcoming atmosphere.
Crazy Daisy Svendborg
55.5 km
Compact, high-energy weekend nightclub in central Svendborg, serving mainstream beats, drinks and a sociable dance floor until the early hours.
Al Capone
58.7 km
Tønder’s sole nightclub, Al Capone blends a rustic 1920s‑inspired mood, late‑night beats and strong drinks into an intimate speakeasy‑style party den.
P2 Champagne & Cocktail Tønder
58.8 km
Intimate champagne and cocktail lounge bringing late-night sparkle and city-style glamour to the historic heart of Tønder.
Kasket karl
59.3 km
Discover authentic Danish hospitality and local color at Kasket Karl, Rudkøbing’s beloved bodega on Langeland—a lively gathering spot offering drinks, history, and community.
Langelands Jazzklub
60.1 km
Experience the vibrant local jazz scene at Langelands Jazzklub in Rudkøbing, where live music and island hospitality meet in one of Denmark’s most charming settings.
Dance Odense, Funen Square Dance Club
66.2 km
Community-driven square dancing in a cozy Odense neighborhood hall, where callers, patterns and shared rhythm turn an ordinary evening into a friendly social event.
