Støvlen – The Giant Boot of Sønderborg
A 12-metre-tall sculptural boot offering quirky charm, panoramic views, and sheltered gathering space in rural Denmark.
Støvlen is a remarkable 12-metre-tall sculptural boot built as a picnic house and observation tower for the 2017 international Scout Camp in Sønderborg, Denmark. With a shoe size of 3600, this whimsical landmark offers panoramic views from its interior, accessible via a staircase in the heel. The structure features table-bench seating, a covered grill area, and toilet facilities, making it an ideal spot for families and groups to gather, dine, and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
A brief summary to Støvlen
- Skydebanevej 1A, Sønderborg, 6400, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Climb the staircase in the heel for the best panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The elevated perspective is worth the short climb and provides excellent photo opportunities.
- Bring food and use the covered grill area for a picnic. The waterproof thatched roof shelter makes it ideal for dining even in rainy weather, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained.
- Visit during quieter times for a more peaceful experience. Early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be less crowded, allowing for better appreciation of the natural surroundings.
- If you have a personal connection to the 2017 Scout Camp, look for inscribed stones in the surrounding area—many visitors have searched for names carved during the original event.
- Bring a camera or smartphone for photos. The boot's distinctive silhouette and unusual scale make it highly photogenic from multiple angles and distances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
From central Sønderborg, drive south on Skydebanevej toward the Scout Camp area. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes depending on starting point. Parking is available near the site. Note that Skydebanevej is a rural road with limited services; ensure your vehicle is in good condition before departing.
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Bicycle
Sønderborg is bicycle-friendly, and Støvlen is accessible via local cycling routes. The ride from the city centre takes approximately 20–30 minutes depending on your starting point. Terrain is relatively flat, suitable for standard bicycles. Bike parking facilities may be limited at the site itself.
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Public Transport & Walking
Local bus services connect Sønderborg to the Scout Camp area; journey time is approximately 15–25 minutes depending on the route and service frequency. From the nearest bus stop, a walk of 5–10 minutes through rural terrain leads to Støvlen. Service frequency is moderate; check local schedules in advance. This option is weather-dependent due to the final walking section.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services operate in Sønderborg and can deliver you directly to Skydebanevej 1A. Journey time from the city centre is approximately 10–15 minutes. Estimated cost ranges from 100–200 Danish Krone depending on exact pickup location and service provider.
Støvlen location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Støvlen
A Monument to Scout Legacy and Imagination
Støvlen was conceived as part of the 2017 international Scout Camp with the motto "We leave our mark." This extraordinary picnic house and observation tower stands as a testament to creative ambition and community spirit. The boot's construction was a significant undertaking, designed not merely as a novelty but as a functional gathering space that would serve campers and visitors for years to come. The scale of the project—a structure with a shoe size of 3600—reflects the ambitious scope of the Scout Camp itself, which was so vast that even locals found navigation challenging.Architectural Design and Physical Dimensions
Støvlen measures 24 metres in length and rises 12 metres in height, making it an unmistakable landmark visible across the surrounding landscape. The boot's design is remarkably naturalistic, with careful attention to detail that captures the essence of an oversized shoe. Access to the interior is gained via a staircase built into the heel, a clever architectural solution that maintains the boot's visual integrity while providing practical entry. The interior space is thoughtfully equipped with table-bench seating arrangements, allowing groups to sit comfortably while enjoying elevated views of the surrounding terrain.Facilities and Practical Amenities
Despite its novelty appearance, Støvlen functions as a well-appointed outdoor facility. A covered grill area beneath a waterproof thatched roof enables visitors to cook and dine regardless of weather conditions, making it accessible even during rain. This sheltered cooking space has proven particularly valuable for families and groups seeking to enjoy meals in the open air without weather concerns. Clean toilet facilities are available on-site, adding to the location's practicality. The combination of seating, grilling, and sanitary facilities transforms Støvlen from a mere curiosity into a genuine community gathering place.The Scout Camp Context and Broader Significance
The Scout Camp of 2017 was an enormous undertaking that brought together international participants and required sophisticated logistical coordination. Støvlen emerged from this context as a symbol of the camp's scale and the dedication of organisers and volunteers. Many visitors have personal connections to the site—some attended the camp as children and later returned with their own families to search for stones inscribed with their names, creating a poignant link between past and present. The structure has become embedded in local memory and identity, representing not just a physical monument but a shared experience.Natural Setting and Visitor Experience
Located at Skydebanevej 1A in Sønderborg, Støvlen sits within a landscape of natural beauty and open space. The elevated vantage point provides panoramic views across the surrounding terrain, making the climb worthwhile for those seeking perspective and fresh air. The boot's position within this natural setting creates an intriguing contrast—a whimsical human creation set against the quieter backdrop of Danish countryside. Visitors frequently report a sense of solitude and peace, particularly during off-peak seasons, suggesting that despite its distinctive appearance, the location maintains a tranquil atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
0.7 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.
Iskonditoriet
2.7 km
Byparkens Legeplads in Roskilde fuses creative play equipment and green park scenery for a free, family-friendly experience in the heart of the historic Danish city.
Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
2.8 km
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
2.8 km
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
3.0 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.
Windmill
3.0 km
Denmark's iconic windmill and national symbol of resilience, rebuilt after war and transformed into a living museum of history.
King's Redoubt
3.1 km
A preserved 1864 military fortress symbolizing Danish resilience and regional heritage.
Tysk skanse X
3.1 km
Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
Mindesten for Røde Kors
3.1 km
A quiet memorial to the world's first Red Cross observers amid Denmark's most historic battlefield.
Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
3.8 km
Memorial marker honoring Danish reunification and the 1864 battle's fallen defenders on a historic fortification site.
Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
4.5 km
Discreet harborfront memorial in Sønderborg honoring eleven young German sailors executed for mutiny in 1945, inviting quiet reflection on conscience and war.
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
5.1 km
A quiet stone marking Denmark's liberation and Vester Sottrup's wartime legacy.
Foundation country Schäferhaus
31.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Bregninge Kirke
34.6 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
35.5 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Center for Verdensmål
0.3 km
Open-air sustainability landscape in Sønderborg where nature, simple installations and Kær Vestermark’s big skies bring the UN’s 17 Global Goals to life for all ages.
Lysvang Vandtårn
1.9 km
A modest 1930s water tower in a quiet Sønderborg neighborhood, blending industrial heritage, wartime stories and occasional panoramic views over town and fjord.
Mindesten for løjtnant A.P.Dorscheus
2.0 km
A modest roadside memorial stone in Sønderborg, honouring a fallen 19th‑century officer and quietly anchoring the turbulent history of the Schleswig wars in the everyday landscape.
Mølleparken
2.1 km
Grassy amphitheatre and open-air stage, where Sønderborg’s quiet green slopes transform into a vibrant summer concert arena under the evening sky.
Rønhaves museum
2.2 km
A cosy attic museum on a 14th‑century farm, where tools, toys and grain samples bring everyday rural life on Als vividly back to life.
Mindesten for Løjtnant Rothenborg Muus
2.3 km
Mølleparken in Sønderborg offers green open spaces, shaded paths, and playgrounds—the perfect urban escape for families, picnickers, and those seeking serenity.
Hønekilden
2.4 km
A tiny harbor-side spring where pure water, royal engineering and whispering legends blur into a tranquil urban nook of art and history.
Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig
2.4 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sønderborg at Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig, where history and interactive exhibits come to life.
Sandbjerg Manor
2.5 km
An 18th‑century Rococo manor turned scholarly retreat, framed by lake, fjord and parkland on the edge of Sønderborg in South Jutland.
Rønhaveplads
2.5 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.
Vægmalerierne på Nørre Havnegade
2.5 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
2.6 km
Danmarks eneste ringridermuseum i et bindingsværkshus fra 1643, hvor lanser, medaljer og lokale fortællinger bringer Sønderborgs festlige tradition til live.
Dybbølstenen
2.6 km
A solitary Ice Age boulder resting in the fields near Dybbøl Banke, Dybbølstenen quietly links deep geological time with South Jutland’s historic landscape.
Memorial Stone for du Plat, Schau and Rosen
2.6 km
A modest stone on a Sønderborg side street commemorating three resistance fighters, offering a brief but powerful pause for reflection on Denmark’s wartime past.
Selfiebænken - Big yellow
2.6 km
Sønderborg's cheerful yellow bench—a playful symbol of local creativity and the perfect photo moment.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Alsik
2.1 km
Contemporary waterfront restaurant in the Alsik Hotel, blending South Jutland ingredients with classic European flavours in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Syttende
2.1 km
Michelin-starred sky dining on the 17th floor of Alsik, where New Nordic cuisine meets sweeping waterfront views over Sønderborg and Alssund.
Torve-Hallen
2.4 km
Eclectic waterfront restaurant in Sønderborg pairing Italian-inspired comfort food, creative interiors and harbour views from morning coffee to late-night dinners.
Carl's Jr.
2.4 km
Flame-grilled American burgers made fresh to order, served daily in Sønderborg's Bilka shopping center.
Bone's Sønderborg
2.5 km
American-style ribs, burgers and salad bar in a lively, family-friendly setting on the edge of Sønderborg.
Det Libanesiske Køkken Pizza og Grill
2.5 km
Casual Lebanese grill and classic pizza on Sønderborg’s main street, serving generous plates, stone-baked slices and easy takeaway in a relaxed, everyday setting.
Restaurant The Grill Sønderborg
2.5 km
All‑you‑can‑eat grill buffet and easygoing dining inside Sønderborg’s Bowl’n’Fun and Maximum entertainment complex, ideal for families, groups and relaxed nights out.
Byens Pizza & Grill Dybbøl - Sønderborg
2.5 km
Experience the best pizza, barbecue, and burgers in Sønderborg at Byens Pizza & Grill Dybbøl – where flavor meets comfort!
Restaurant Sundhalle V/Eva Iversen
2.6 km
Relaxed harborfront restaurant in Sønderborg serving hearty Danish comfort food and pub classics in a cozy, down-to-earth bar atmosphere by the water.
Peking Restaurant
2.6 km
Spacious Chinese buffet, sushi and Mongolian barbecue in central Sønderborg, ideal for relaxed group meals, family dinners and easy, inexpensive feasts.
Kislings
2.6 km
A cozy Sønderborg café and specialty coffee bar blending Danish hygge, craft roasting and a hidden courtyard oasis right on bustling pedestrian Perlegade.
KING FOOD SØNDERBORG
2.6 km
Quality döner and burgers in Sønderborg's vibrant city center, open late for hungry diners.
Promenaden - Is med udsigt
2.6 km
Casual harbourfront ice cream and hot dogs with wide-open views towards Sønderborg Castle, outdoor seating only and a playful, family-friendly seaside atmosphere.
Rainbow Sushi v/Thi Trinh
2.6 km
Compact, central Sønderborg sushi restaurant and takeaway serving fresh, generous rolls and classic nigiri in a relaxed, low-key setting on Jernbanegade.
Sønderborg Pizza og Grill
2.6 km
Central Sønderborg pizzeria and grill serving classic Danish‑style pizzas, burgers and takeaway favorites in a simple, no‑frills setting on Jernbanegade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Red Cross Op Shop
2.0 km
Volunteer‑run Red Cross thrift shop in Sønderborg, where low‑priced fashion, furniture and homeware meet sustainable shopping and support for humanitarian work.
Scandinavian Scents
2.0 km
An intimate Sønderborg boutique where Nordic-inspired candles and home fragrances bring the region’s calm forests, sea air and hygge simplicity into everyday life.
JYSK
2.5 km
Scandinavian home furnishings at accessible prices, with free trailer rental and wheelchair access.
Dansk
2.5 km
Family-run Danish clothing chain store in Sønderborg, offering practical, wallet-friendly fashion for all ages and sizes in a bright, no-nonsense setting.
Huset Torre
2.6 km
Curated fashion, home décor, and wine experiences in Sønderborg's vibrant pedestrian quarter.
Butik Schlott
2.6 km
Independent men’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, offering curated international brands, classic tailoring and personal service in a relaxed setting.
Outdoor In City Centre
2.6 km
Expert outdoor and fishing gear in Sønderborg's pedestrian heart.
DanChurchSocial Op Shop
2.6 km
A spacious Kirkens Korshær thrift warehouse in Sønderborg, where budget-friendly furniture and second-hand finds fund vital local social work.
Juhl Bolighus A / S
2.6 km
A vast Danish design furniture house in Sønderborg’s historic center, blending showroom and museum to showcase timeless craftsmanship and iconic interiors.
in mood
2.6 km
Stylish women's fashion in the heart of Sønderborg's city center.
Noa Noa
2.6 km
A small Danish fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, showcasing Noa Noa’s feminine, bohemian-inspired style in a calm, easy-to-browse setting.
Masai
2.6 km
Danish fashion boutique celebrating bold colors, unique prints, and Scandinavian design excellence.
Janne K Sønderborg
2.6 km
Colorful Danish womenswear with Italian-made fabrics in the heart of Sønderborg’s main shopping street on the island of Als.
Kop & Kande
2.6 km
Welcoming Danish homeware and gift shop on Sønderborg’s main street, stocked with practical kitchen essentials, stylish tableware and thoughtful presents.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
2.7 km
Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Freia Bar & Lounge
2.1 km
Harbourfront hotel bar with Nordic myth touches, crafted drinks and hygge-rich lounge seating overlooking Sønderborg’s Alssund and skyline.
Caféen
2.2 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.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
2.3 km
Intimate, association-run jazz club in central Sønderborg, serving up New Orleans–inspired live music, close-up performances and a friendly, community atmosphere.
Værtshus Chr. Iv
2.5 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.
Restaurant Viking - Pool and billiards Sønderborg
2.6 km
Authentic Danish neighborhood pub where locals gather for affordable drinks, billiards, and genuine community atmosphere.
Den Lille Vinbar
2.7 km
Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
Visselulles Vinbar
2.7 km
Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
Bar' Vinbar
2.8 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.
Old Danish Pub
2.8 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.
SKAAL Sønderborg
2.8 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
2.8 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.
the tea house
2.8 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
2.8 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.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
2.9 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.
Nebula.dk ApS
2.9 km
Atmospheric shisha lounge and cocktail bar in Sønderborg’s historic center, offering intimate lighting, cozy seating and slow-paced evenings for adults.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kaizen ApS
2.9 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
4.7 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
41.1 km
Experience the artisanal charm of Ærø Whisky Distillery in Ærøskøbing, where local ingredients and traditional methods create unique island whiskies.
Ærø Jazzfestival
41.1 km
Experience the soul of Danish jazz at Ærø Jazzfestival, where international rhythms meet island heritage in the historic harbor of Ærøskøbing each summer.
Ommel
46.1 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.
Ela-Ela Schleswig
46.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Schleswig at Ela-Ela, where music and dancing come alive in an unforgettable disco experience.
VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig
47.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig, a lively night club perfect for dancing and socializing until dawn.
TANZ-FABRIK / Tanzlokal
48.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Schleswig at TANZ-FABRIK, where music and dance create unforgettable memories every Saturday night.
Discothek Vineta
52.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Busdorf at Discothek Vineta, where vibrant music and dancing await in a welcoming atmosphere.
Crazy Daisy Svendborg
55.4 km
Compact, high-energy weekend nightclub in central Svendborg, serving mainstream beats, drinks and a sociable dance floor until the early hours.
Al Capone
57.7 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
57.8 km
Intimate champagne and cocktail lounge bringing late-night sparkle and city-style glamour to the historic heart of Tønder.
Kasket karl
60.0 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
60.8 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.
Carlsens Kvarter
64.2 km
Atmospheric pub in Odense C, offering unmatched hygge, an impressive selection of craft beers, and a welcoming local vibe in a characterful historic setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly