Flyndersø and Hjelm Heath – Nature, History, and Unique Landscapes
In the 1870s, there was an attempt to drain Flyndersø to create more farmland. The lake’s outlet was redirected, canals were dug along the shores, and a dam was built south of Snævringen. However, the dam was repeatedly breached, and the project was eventually abandoned. The canals are still visible, but the dam has disappeared. In 1934, large parts of Hjelm were protected, and in 1967 the protection was extended to the entire Flyndersø area.
Flyndersø-Hjelm Hede is a protected area of 1,200 hectares with truly unique nature.
There are three marked hiking trails in the area, accessible from three parking lots. At the eastern end of the lake, there is a bathing beach about 5 meters wide, made up of stones and grass, with a sandy and stony lakebed. At the northern end lies the former watermill, Flyndersø Mølle, which houses a small exhibition about the area. It is open from Easter until the autumn holidays. The exhibition also tells the story of the “rakkere” – wandering people in the 17th and 18th centuries who lived off begging and odd jobs on the heath.
Flyndersø, Denmark’s largest heath lake, was formed at the end of the last Ice Age when melting ice left large depressions that filled with water. Smaller ice blocks created dry hollows, like those found on Hjelm Hede. After being forested, the area was used for farming and grazing, but overuse of the sandy soil led to heath spreading over the cultivated land – a development seen in many parts of Jutland, where heath once covered over 40%.
Flyndersø is rich in birdlife, with both migratory and breeding birds. In spring and autumn, large flocks of ducks and goosanders gather here, and in spring, the great crested grebe can also be seen. At Snævringen, there are good chances of spotting kingfishers, and ospreys occasionally visit the area.
Hjelm Hede is home to typical heathland plants such as heather, crowberry, and lingonberry. In some places, you can also find blueberries.
Canoeing, kayaking, and rowing are allowed in the northern part of Flyndersø from June 15 to October 1, between 9 AM and 6 PM. A registration number is required and can be purchased in limited quantities from Hessellund Sø Camping (phone: +45 97 10 16 04), where canoes are also available for rent.
