Troldeslugten at Hald Sø

A forest ravine with a touch of folklore

Troldeslugten, literally “the trolls’ gorge,” is a short but striking ravine carved into the wooded hillsides above Hald Sø. As you step beneath the canopy, the light dims, the air cools and the path dips between steep, tree-clad slopes. Tangled roots, moss-covered stones and leaning trunks give the impression that the forest is slowly closing in, perfect for imagining trolls and other creatures hiding just out of sight. Despite its modest scale, the gorge has a surprisingly dramatic feel by Danish standards. The terrain drops sharply from the plateau towards the lakeshore, and the path threads through a natural corridor that can feel almost tunnel-like in places. In wet weather, the ground grows soft and the slopes glisten darkly, underlining the sense that this is a place shaped by water and time.

Shaped by ice, water and forest

Troldeslugten is part of the glacial landscape around Hald Sø, where meltwater once carved channels through sandy, moraine-rich hillsides. Over thousands of years, the ravine has deepened as water found the easiest route down towards the lake, leaving behind a V-shaped cut now softened by beech and mixed woodland. Today it offers a compact lesson in how geology and vegetation interact in Denmark’s inland lake districts. The surrounding forest is dense and varied, with beech, oak and conifers creating a layered green ceiling in summer and a rustling carpet of leaves in autumn. Birdsong carries clearly between the slopes, and you may hear woodpeckers tapping or catch sight of deer slipping quietly between the trunks higher up the banks. In winter, bare branches reveal more of the ravine’s contours, while frost and occasional snow pick out the textures of roots and rocks.

Part of the wider Hald Sø walking country

Although the gorge itself is quite short, it sits on a mesh of waymarked routes that circle Hald Sø and connect to the historic Hærvejen trail. Walkers often link a passage through Troldeslugten with sections over the open heath of Stanghede and along the lakeside path, creating a varied loop that alternates between enclosed forest, open views and cultural landscapes. Close by, the area known as De Fem Halder preserves traces of five different fortifications and manor sites spanning several centuries. While Troldeslugten is primarily about atmosphere and nature, the wider surroundings add a strong sense of historical depth. The combination of wooded ravines, open slopes and glimpses of ruins makes this corner of central Jutland feel richer than a simple forest stroll.

Playful neighbours at Børnenes Hald

Just across from the ravine you will find the imaginative Børnenes Hald nature playground, with large wooden wild boar figures, climbing structures, a tower with slide and a zipline. The contrast between the dark, almost secretive atmosphere inside Troldeslugten and the bright, lively energy of the playground invites families to blend quiet exploration with active play. Sheltered picnic spots and simple facilities nearby make it easy to turn a visit into a half-day outing. Children can first scramble along the roots and banks of the ravine, then test their balance and courage on the playground’s obstacles. Adults can enjoy the forest calm, lakeside views and the pleasure of seeing the area used in a way that still respects its natural character.

Seasons, moods and practical feel

Each season gives Troldeslugten a different mood. In spring, wildflowers and fresh leaves brighten the slopes, and small streams or damp patches underline the gorge’s watery origins. Summer brings deep shade and cool air, making the ravine a welcome contrast to sunlit hills and open heath. Autumn brushes the trees in gold and copper, while winter can leave icicles on roots and a thin mirror of ice in still puddles near the lake. Paths can be narrow, sloping and rooty, so footwear with a good grip makes the experience more comfortable. The area feels compact and manageable, yet the tangle of forest routes means you can easily extend your walk if you wish. Despite the fairy-tale name, Troldeslugten is less about staged spectacle and more about quietly dramatic Danish nature a short distance from Viborg.