A section of the Fjord Path: From Roskilde to Herslev
The Fjord Path is one of the country’s most beautiful cycling routes. The full route stretches 230 km, but here we focus on the section you can experience in and around Roskilde.
We’ll take you on a roughly 20 km journey that leads you along Roskilde Fjord and through the scenic countryside and villages in the Skjoldungernes Land National Park. Ride through the beautiful Sct. Hans area, enjoy the views of Zealand, and remember to take breaks along the way. There are several spots where you can rest and enjoy a refreshment.
- Length: Approximately 20 km out of a total of 232 km
- Difficulty: Suitable for all levels
Start your Fjord Path journey in Roskilde
The tour begins in the heart of Roskilde, where the magnificent Roskilde Cathedral serves as the city’s natural centerpiece. With its significant place in Danish history, the cathedral is an attraction in itself and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also the only place in the world where you can see a total of 40 royal graves gathered in one location.
Enjoy a stroll through the quaint, charming streets around the cathedral, experience the medieval atmosphere at Stændertorvet, and take the lovely short trip to Roskilde Harbor and the Viking Ship Museum.
Cycle from the Viking Ship Museum to Boserup Forest: Experience Skjoldungernes Land National Park and Roskilde Fjord
From the Viking Ship Museum, head along the fjord to the natural area of Kællingehaven, part of Skjoldungernes Land National Park. This area is perfect for hiking, and you can cycle or walk along small paths to Sct Hans Have, a charming recreational spot offering relaxation in cozy surroundings along with some food and drinks.
From here, continue along the small trails through Boserup Forest, where the large trees and the fjord create a pleasant landscape for cycling. It’s a great idea to stop at Lerskrænten, where you can enjoy one of Denmark’s most beautiful views. Take in the sight of Roskilde Fjord and Ringøen. There are tables, benches, and barbecue areas available, inviting you to relax regardless of the season. If you visit Boserup Forest in spring, it’s an ideal spot to dismount and go on an “anemone safari.” The forest is renowned for its numerous anemones, and you can see three different species here. Boserup Forest also has several shelters for those who want to spend the night.
From Boserup Forest, you can head to Herslev Beach and Harbor. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing dip from the bathing jetty or make use of the campfire site, benches, and shelters.
Treat yourself to a cold beer and lunch at the restaurant Øl og Mad at Herslev Brewery. The brewery is an organic farm brewery that uses grain from its own fields for brewing, and each brew has its own unique flavor and story.
From the brewery, you can take a small detour to try the ferry connection between Roskilde and Lejre Municipalities across Kornerup Stream. No ferry ticket is required, but you’ll need to use your own strength to pull yourself across.
From the brewery, it’s an 8 km ride on small roads and through charming villages to Lejre Station, where you can catch a train back to Roskilde or directly to Copenhagen Central Station. Along the way, you’ll experience the village charm of Kattinge and pass Denmark’s smallest church with a spire—Kornerup Church.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Fjord Path is almost a food haven, where just a few extra kilometers in the saddle are rewarded with fantastic culinary experiences. We’ve compiled a list of some of the area’s most tempting delights right here.
A Selection of Attractions on the Fjord Path:
Roskilde Domkirke
Roskilde Cathedral is Denmark’s most important church building; a Gothic medieval cathedral and royal burial church with 40 royal graves, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
At the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, you can see five original Viking ships excavated from Roskilde Fjord in 1962. These nearly 1,000-year-old ships are displayed in the Viking Ship Hall, set against the fjord as a dramatic backdrop. From May to September, you can also set sail in one of the museum’s reconstructed Viking ships and experience a taste of what it was like to be a Viking on a voyage.
Sct. Hans Have
Sct. Hans Have is a recreational garden, a meeting place with a café and nursery, and a destination close to Roskilde city, Boserup Forest, and Roskilde Fjord. Situated near the fjord, you can enjoy your lunch, coffee, or homemade cake among the herbs in the beautiful greenhouses.
On the route, you’ll pass through Boserup Forest, part of Skjoldungernes Land National Park. The forest features expansive, picturesque nature ideal for hiking and cycling. For those seeking a bit of adrenaline, there are also several mountain biking trails.
If you’re cycling with children, you can try the “Midgårdsormen,” a 300-meter-long balance trail that will challenge both young and old.
Herslev Bryghus
Herslev Brewery is an organic farm brewery rooted in the flavors of the Fjordland. It brews beer according to terroir principles similar to those used in traditional vineyards, with ingredients that reflect the landscape and seasons, and grains from its own fields. Enjoy lunch at Øl & Mad, the brewery’s restaurant.
Guide:
Fjordlandet’s best cycling routes
Check out our suggestions for a variety of bike trips. We regularly add new ideas with family friendly bicycle routes. Our routes have been tested to make sure they follow bike paths and minor roads as much as possible.
Travelblogger:
‘Sarah in the green’: the Fjord-path
Get inspired by the article from “Sarah in the Green” biking on the Fjord Path – the stretch between Svanholm and Jægerspris Castle. Sarah Green is a freelance photographer and travel blogger living in Copenhagen. This article is a collaboration
Highlight:
The Tour De France route
On Saturday 2 July 2022 cyclists began the second stage of Tour de France in scenic Fjordlandet! We interviewed the world champion Mads Pedersen and got some great tips for you to jump on your bike and explore the Tour de France route in Roskilde and Lejre on your own and follow in world champion Mads Pedersen’s tracks!
About us
Fjordlandet, or Fjord Country, covers the scenic areas around Roskilde Fjord and Isefjord. The towns and landscape of Fjordlandet are filled with vibrant stories, while its harbours are abuzz with activity. On a summer day you’ll encounter beach guests, sailors, fishermen, nature lovers, birdwatchers, history buffs and Viking enthusiasts.
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