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Højerup Kirke: The Church Teetering on a Cliff Edge

Historic cliffside church dramatically perched on Stevns Klint, offering panoramic Baltic views and a poignant glimpse into Denmark’s medieval past.

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Højerup Kirke, perched dramatically on the chalk cliffs of Stevns Klint in South Zealand, is a small medieval church famous for its breathtaking sea views and haunting history. Built in the 13th century, part of the church tumbled into the sea in 1928 as the cliff eroded—now, visitors can still step up to the edge and gaze out over the Baltic, making it both a poignant historical site and a must-see scenic highlight.

A brief summary to Højerup Kirke

Local tips

  • Bring a windbreaker—cliffside breezes can be strong even on sunny days.
  • Visit early morning for the best light and fewest crowds, especially in summer.
  • Combine with a walk along Stevns Klint for scenic geology and UNESCO World Heritage insight.
  • Parking is free but limited on weekends and holidays—arrive off-peak for easier access.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the main hub of South Zealand, it’s a relaxed 30–40-minute drive through open countryside and small villages to the cliffside area of Stevns Klint, where Højerup Kirke sits dramatically above the sea. Parking is available in a dedicated lot near the church, and it is usually free of charge, though spaces may fill quickly during peak seasons.

  • Public Transport

    Regional buses from the main towns of South Zealand head toward Store Heddinge, Stevns’ largest nearby settlement. From the Store Heddinge rail and bus station, local buses or short bicycle hires will bring you the final kilometers to Højerup village, with the church visible on the cliff line—this last leg typically takes 10–15 minutes and fares are DKK 24–36 for a single ride.

  • Walking

    For enthusiastic hikers, marked coastal trails lead from adjacent Stevns Klint attractions to Højerup Kirke. Expect a scenic walk of 20–40 minutes along the renowned cliff path, which provides dramatic sea overlooks and passes several information panels about the area’s geology and history.

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Discover more about Højerup Kirke

Højerup Kirke is a place where history, nature, and legend intertwine on the dramatic chalk cliffs of Stevns Klint, South Zealand’s UNESCO-listed coastline. Founded around 1250, this small stone church has faced the relentless erosion of the sea for centuries. The most striking chapter in its history occurred in 1928, when a portion of the cliff beneath its chancel gave way, causing part of the church to plunge into the Baltic below. Today, the church’s exposed interior wall is a living testament to this natural drama, right on the cliff’s edge. Inside, you’ll find preserved frescoes and a simple medieval interior—its nave echoing with stories from the village of Højerup and the centuries of fishermen, farmers, and travelers who found solace or curiosity within its walls. A spectacular balcony has been constructed where the chancel once stood, offering panoramic sea views and a truly vertigo-inducing photo opportunity. Visitors often marvel at the unique sensation of looking directly out over the endless blue, with wind-twisted trees and seabirds wheeling below. The setting is atmospheric: the church surrounded by a peaceful cemetery, flowering meadows, and walking paths that trace the cliff-line. The adjacent Stevns Klint area is famed for its geological layers, containing evidence of the asteroid impact that ended the reign of the dinosaurs, drawing both casual visitors and geology enthusiasts from far and wide. Entry to the church is free, making it accessible for all, and the location is equipped with basic amenities and a small car park. The sense of standing quite literally at the edge—of both land and history—makes Højerup Kirke one of Denmark’s most evocative and photogenic historic churches.

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