Østkystruten: Bike tour on the Danish Baltic Sea

Flensburg, Germany's northernmost port city, serves as the starting point for your journey along the Østkystruten in Jutland. Situated on the Flensburg Fjord, the city boasts a history spanning over 750 years. During the 19th century the city was the key trading port for the rum with the Caribbean. The Nordertor (North Gate) is the last remaining city gate of Flensburg and as such a poignant reminder of its former importance. Do take the time to explore!

The first stage of your bike tour along the Danish Baltic Sea takes you along the scenic Flensburg Fjord. A perfect stop for your first break is Gråsten, where the summer residence of the Danish royal family is located. The castle grounds are renowned as one of the most beautiful parks in Northern Europe. Continuing on, you’ll pass the Nydam Mose, an ancient bog that was once used as a sacrificial site during the Iron Age. In Sønderborg, situated on the island of Als, you’ll discover the impressive Sønderborg Slot, which dates back to the 12th century and now houses a fascinating museum. Your destination for the day, Åbenrå, captivates with its picturesque collection of townhouses and craftsmen’s homes.

On today’s stage of the bike tour along the Danish Baltic Sea, you will first cycle to Haderslev. The town’s old quarter, situated on a peninsula, is home to the Haderslev Domkirke, one of Denmark's most stunning Gothic churches. Continuing on to Kolding, the striking Koldinghus castle will capture your attention. From the tower of the castle, the Kæmpetårn, you'll be treated to a magnificent panoramic view of the city and the scenic Kolding Fjord.

You leave Kolding along the Kolding Fjord, and soon reach the Gamle Lillebæltsbro. From the bridge, you’ll enjoy a beautiful view over the Little Belt, and with a bit of luck, you may even spot porpoises in the waters below. Across the strait, the city of Fredericia stands out with its unique city centre, laid out in a neat checkerboard pattern. As you continue towards Vejle, you’ll encounter Munkebjergsbakken, a small but challenging hill, known as the hardest in Denmark. Don’t worry, though – with a maximum gradient of around 12% and a length of just over 1 km, the climb is manageable. Upon arriving in Vejle, be sure to visit the windmill, the city’s iconic landmark.

Today, you have two route options to choose from:
On Route 5, you’ll follow the Vejlefjord towards the seaside resort of Juelsminde, continuing along the coast to Hornes, covering a distance of 80 km. Alternatively, you can take Route 53, which diverges a few kilometres past Vejle and leads you through a hilly and picturesque landscape of forests and fields inland, covering 45 km.
In Horsens, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a former state prison, now a museum. The town is also famous for Vitus Bering, the renowned explorer who navigated the Bering Strait between America and Asia in the 18th century. A city park also commemorates his legacy.

On your bike tour along the Danish Baltic Sea, you will now head north. With the sparkling Baltic Sea before you and the fresh sea breeze in your face, you'll soon arrive in Norsminde. Along the way to Aarhus, there are plenty of opportunities to take a leisurely break at one of the many beaches. Denmark's second-largest city, Aarhus, is known for its wealth of remarkable sights, a thriving restaurant scene, and a vibrant cultural atmosphere, all complemented by a friendly and relaxed vibe.

After breakfast, your bike tour along the Danish Baltic Sea comes to a close. Should you wish, we would be delighted to extend your stay with an additional night in Aarhus.