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Stevns Klint: A Cliffside Chronicle of Earth's History

Explore Stevns Klint, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Denmark, where dramatic chalk cliffs reveal the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs, offering a unique journey through Earth's history and natural beauty.

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Stevns Klint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning 17 km-long coastal cliff in Denmark, offering a unique glimpse into Earth's dramatic past. It marks the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary, showcasing evidence of the asteroid impact that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. The cliff features a visible layer of fish clay, rich in iridium, a key indicator of the impact. Visitors can explore the cliffside, hike the Trampesti trail, visit the historic Højerup Old Church perched on the edge, and learn more at the Stevns Klint Experience visitor center. With its blend of natural beauty, geological significance, and historical landmarks, Stevns Klint offers an unforgettable journey through time.

A brief summary to Stevns Klint UNESCO World Heritage

Local tips

  • Visit the Stevns Klint Experience for an interactive journey through the site's history, featuring exhibits, films, and a café with local cuisine.
  • Hike the Trampesti trail along the cliff tops for breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding landscape.
  • Explore Højerup Old Church, perched dramatically on the cliff's edge, and learn about its history and the impact of coastal erosion.
  • Visit the Stevns Lighthouse for panoramic views of Stevns Klint and the surrounding area.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change quickly along the coast.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Copenhagen, take a regional train to Køge Station. From Køge, transfer to the local train (Østbanen) towards Rødvig. Get off at Rødvig Station. From Rødvig Station, you can take bus 252 towards Højerup. The bus ride is approximately 10 minutes. Get off at the Højerup bus stop, which is a short walk to the Stevns Klint area, including the Stevns Klint Experience and Højerup Old Church. A single train fare from Copenhagen to Køge costs approximately 50 DKK, and the local train from Køge to Rødvig is around 40 DKK. The bus fare from Rødvig to Højerup is about 20 DKK. Consider using the Rejseplanen app to plan your journey and purchase tickets.

  • Driving

    From Copenhagen, take the E20 and Route 261 to Stevns Klint. Follow signs towards Højerup. Paid parking is available near Højerup Old Church. Parking costs 40 DKK per day. Alternatively, free parking is available near the Stevns Lighthouse, a 1.5 km walk along the cliff to Højerup Old Church.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Rødvig, a taxi or ride-share to Stevns Klint (Højerup area) will cost approximately 150-200 DKK. The journey is short, approximately 10 minutes, offering a convenient option for reaching the site.

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Discover more about Stevns Klint UNESCO World Heritage

Stevns Klint, located on the eastern coast of Zealand, Denmark, is a breathtaking 17-kilometer-long coastal cliff that stands as a testament to one of Earth's most dramatic events. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2014, this geological treasure offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the visible evidence of the asteroid impact that triggered a mass extinction 66 million years ago, wiping out the dinosaurs and paving the way for the rise of mammals. The cliffs themselves are composed of layers of chalk and limestone, formed over millions of years. The most significant feature is the thin, dark layer known as the Fish Clay, which marks the Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) boundary. This layer is rich in iridium, an element rare on Earth but abundant in asteroids, providing compelling evidence of the impact theory. The Fish Clay serves as a stark reminder of the cataclysmic event that reshaped life on our planet. Visitors can explore Stevns Klint in several ways. The Stevns Klint Trampesti, a well-maintained hiking trail, follows the coastline, offering stunning views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding landscape. The trail passes by several key points of interest, including Højerup Old Church, a medieval church that dramatically sits on the cliff's edge. Due to coastal erosion, part of the church collapsed into the sea in 1928, a powerful illustration of nature's relentless force. Today, a protective wall safeguards the remaining structure, offering visitors a unique vantage point. Another highlight is the Stevns Lighthouse, constructed in 1818, which provides panoramic views of the area. The lighthouse stands as a beacon of maritime history, guiding navigators along the Danish coastline for centuries. For a more in-depth understanding of the site's geological significance, the Stevns Klint Experience visitor center offers interactive exhibits, films, and displays. Here, visitors can learn about the science behind the asteroid impact, the fossils found in the cliffs, and the recovery of life after the extinction event. The center also features a design shop with local products and a café serving local cuisine. Stevns Klint is not only a geological wonder but also a place of cultural and historical significance. The area has been inhabited for centuries, and the cliffs have been used as a source of building materials. During the Cold War, the Stevns Fortress was built into the cliffs, serving as a secret military installation to protect Denmark from potential invasion. Today, the fortress is a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the tensions of that era. The cliffs are composed of four distinct layers: soft chalk at the bottom, the fish clay, hard limestone, and traces of the last ice age at the top. Bryozoan limestone was extracted from the cliffs until the 1940s and used as a building material. The cliffs provide a habitat for various bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. The beach below the cliffs is accessible via steep steps and offers opportunities for swimming and fishing. Fossil hunting is also a popular activity, with visitors searching for remnants of ancient marine life. Stevns Klint is a destination that appeals to a wide range of interests, from nature lovers and history buffs to geology enthusiasts and families. Its unique combination of natural beauty, scientific importance, and cultural heritage makes it a must-see attraction in Denmark. To fully appreciate the significance of Stevns Klint, consider joining a guided tour. Several local companies offer tours in English, providing insights into the geology, history, and ecology of the area. These tours often include visits to key sites, fossil hunting expeditions, and storytelling about the dramatic events that shaped the landscape. Whether you are hiking along the cliff tops, exploring the visitor center, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, Stevns Klint offers an unforgettable experience that connects you to the deep history of our planet.

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