Arresø | Denmark's largest lake

Arresø | Denmark's largest lake

Arresø

3200 Helsinge

Photo: Daniel Villadsen / VisitNordsjælland

Arresø i Nordsjælland

Photo: VisitNordsjælland

Arre Sø

The Ministry of Environment and Energy owns the lake. It borders on three municipalities: Halsnæs, Gribskov and Hillerød and runs to Roskilde Fjord through the Arresø Canal in Frederiksværk.

There is a large number of creeks running into Arresø, of which Pøleå is the most important. Especially along Arresø's west side, there are several hillsides, e.g. Maglehøj at Frederiksværk and Arrenakke Bakker, from which the lake is a fantastic view. East of Frederiksværk, the peninsula Arrenæs stretches out into Arresø.

Sailing

You can sail in the lake with all kinds of boats not driven by motor power. However, it is essential to mention that kite surfing is not allowed because of birdlife. Canoe and kayakers travel for several days, where they spend the night at campsites around the lake. In Ramløse, in the northern part, there is a yacht harbour, and there is yacht racing during the summer. From February 1 to July 31, a distance of 50 meters from the pipe forest must be kept for birdlife. The 50-meter zone is marked with yellow buoys. On the Nature Agency's website, you can see a map with zones and landing points.

Bathing

There has been a bathing ban in Arresø for several years because of algae growth.

Fishing

Fishing in Arresø is permitted, and fishing can be done from places that are legally publicly accessible and from a boat. It requires a fishing license to fish in the lake.

The story of Arresø

Arresø was originally a fjord arm from the Kattegat. Only 2-3.000 years ago, Arresø became fresh as the flat land north of the lake gradually rose after the last ice age. Until the 18th century, there were severe problems with floods at Arresø due to the sanding of the original drain, which ran through Arrenakke Å.

In 1717, hundreds of soldiers were commanded to dig a new drain. The work on establishing the Arresø Canal and the lock at Arresødal were completed in 1719. From the 1750s and onwards, the hydropower in the canal was used for both foundry and powder mills. The powder mill worked until 1965 and is today a museum.

In 1899, a "County Administrative Commission on Investigation of the Arctic Ocean Water Level" was established. Based on the - at that time - good experiences from Søborg Sø, they would investigate whether Arresø could be dried and the land used for agricultural purposes. The Commission supported the idea, but luckily the value of the gunpowder and the fishery and the lack of public financial goodwill meant that the project was not realized.

Today, the lake is designated as a habitat and bird protection area and therefore enjoys adequate protection against devastating interventions.

Hotels nearby of Arresø | Denmark's largest lake

  • Hotel Hillerød - SDH Partner Hotel

    14.68 km

    Magnificent forests, lakes and sports routes surround you here. The city and nature have inspired the hotel. A small village has been created here with winding avenues, green plants and sunshine. The rooms are suitable for families, business or couples on holiday.
    Read more : Hotel Hillerød - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Hotel Gilleleje Strand

    18.39 km

    Hotel Gilleleje Strand is a tradition-rich seaside hotel from 1896, which recently has been totally renovated. The 25 rooms of the hotel differ, but they have the magnificent location in common: You can stay in the middle of Gilleleje.

    Read more : Hotel Gilleleje Strand
  • Skjalm Hvide Hotel

    19.31 km

    Skjalm Hvide Hotel is close to sights and attractions of both Copenhagen and northern Zealand. The hotel is an ideal starting point for day trips and wonderful excursions. The beautifully appointed hotel with its newly and tastefully refurbished rooms is perfect for relaxation and recharging your batteries.

    Read more : Skjalm Hvide Hotel
  • Marienlyst Strandhotel

    31.1 km

    The internationally known Beach Hotel Marienlyst of Elsinore was built in 1901 at the waterfront as a part of the former baths “Cuur og Badeanstalt” of Marienlyst Castle. There are restaurant and bars, lounge, casino and large terraces overlooking the Sound. Close to Castle and the art museum Louisiana.
    Read more : Marienlyst Strandhotel
  • Taastrup Park Hotel

    40.51 km

    Taastrup Park Hotel is situated centrally between Roskilde and Copenhagen, not far from the motorway. The hotel has its own free car park and is located just a two-minute walk from Taastrup Station, restaurants and shops. The comfortable rooms and delicious breakfast buffet keep our guests coming back again and again.
    Read more : Taastrup Park Hotel
  • Skovshoved Hotel

    40.63 km

    The beautiful seaside hotel, one of the world’s hippest, according to Condé Nast Traveler, is loved by guests from all over the globe. They come, not only to enjoy the beautiful location and the stunning views of the Sound, but also for the exquisite food.

    Read more : Skovshoved Hotel
  • Hotel Hebron - SDH Partner Hotel

    46.17 km

    Centrally located in the city center, this Copenhagen hotel is minutes from the beautiful Tivoli Gardens and 'Stroget', Europe's longest pedestrian street.
    Read more : Hotel Hebron - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Hotel Astoria - SDH Partner Hotel

    46.2 km

    If you want to be centrally located in inner Copenhagen, you can safely choose to stay overnight at Hotel Astoria. Here you only have a few minutes' walk to Tivoli, delicious restaurants, cafes, Strøget and more fantastic city options.
    Read more : Hotel Astoria - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Absalon Hotel

    46.37 km

    Absalon Hotel is a unique, modern yet classic hotel in central Copenhagen. The wonderful bedrooms are furnished with collections from the international home and lifestyle company Designers Guild. Relax and plan your day in the comfortable lobby lounge, and enjoy a refreshment. Walled garden with miniature golf.
    Read more : Absalon Hotel