Heaths of Randbøl

Photo: Eliza Danesi

Heaths of Randbøl

Photo: Eliza Danesi

Heaths of Randbøl

Photo: VisitVejle

Heaths of Randbøl

Nature and History of the Heaths of Randbøl

Randbøl Hede, southwest of Randbøl, is one of the few remaining heath landscapes and, with its 750 hectares, one of Denmark’s largest inland heaths. The heath’s history dates back to the Ice Age, when meltwater from the glaciers created the flat, sandy terrain. In this bare landscape, strong winds have since moved the sand and formed dunes. These dunes are now known as the Staldbakkerne, with the largest called Stoltenbjerg, standing 17 meters tall.

Randbøl Hede was protected as early as 1932, making it Denmark’s largest landscape conservation area at the time. The protection covers 750 hectares, of which the state currently owns about 650. The aim was to preserve the open, heather-covered expanses and protect the heath from cultivation and afforestation.

It has since become clear that heathland is an unstable natural state. If human influence ceases, forest will take over. Therefore, Randbøl State Forest District has been granted permission to manage the heath to preserve it for future generations.

Randbøl Hede was once much larger than it is today. It was impassable, desolate, and feared by many—especially traveling merchants—because of the robbers who roamed the area. The trail from Vorbasse Studevej, used for centuries to drive cattle to market in Vorbasse or further south, still winds across the heath.

In the 1750s, farmers’ customary rights to grazing and peat cutting were formalized, and part of the heath became royal (state) property.

In 1760, the so-called “potato Germans” began cultivating the heath, especially growing potatoes. They later earned their nickname because they taught Danes to eat potatoes. The colonization and cultivation were extremely laborious and largely unsuccessful, and most Germans eventually returned home.

From Stoltenbjerg at Staldbakkerne, there is a fantastic view of the area. The Staldbakkerne consist of sand that has “migrated” eastward from the west coast.

What Can You Experience in the Area?

There are several noteworthy stops in the area. Here are some of the highlights of Randbøl Hede:

  • Stoltenbjerg: The largest dune on Randbøl Hede, 17 meters high. A black stripe can be seen across the dune. The sand below the stripe dates back to 5800 BC, while the sand above was deposited in the 1500s due to human-induced sandstorms.

  • Naturrum Kirstinelyst: A free visitor center that tells the story of the heath’s nature and history. Facilities include toilets, a covered picnic area, and bookable shelters. Read more about Kirstinelyst by following this link.

  • Machine Gun Nests and Aircraft Hides: Traces of the Germans’ use of the heath during WWII can still be found. Aircraft hides appear as horseshoe-shaped earth mounds, about 16 meters wide and 33 meters long. You can also see machine gun nests dug into the dunes.

  • Heather in Bloom: In late summer, you can experience the blooming heather. It typically blooms from August to September.

  • Frederikshåb Plantation: Near Randbøl Hede, you’ll find Frederikshåb Plantation, where you can sometimes witness the natural phenomenon of the Seven-Year Lakes. Read more about Frederikshåb Plantation by following this link.

Trails in the Area

The trails are marked with colored arrows on posts and stones.

Download Hiking Brochure

You can download a hiking brochure for Randbøl Hede by following this link.

You can also find the brochure at VisitVejle’s tourist office at Banegårdspladsen 8, Vejle. It is often also available at Kirstinelyst.

Hotels nearby of Heaths of Randbøl

  • Hotel Svanen Billund

    8.11 km

    Hotel Svanen in Billund is exceptional: A 4-star design hotel where children are also very welcome. All details have been cared for – in the uniquely designed rooms, in the cosy lounge and in the restaurant “No8”. The target is to give all guests a unique experience as close to the sublime as possible.
    Read more : Hotel Svanen Billund
  • Refborg Hotel Billund

    8.77 km

    The cosy Refborg Hotel Billund in the middle of the town Billund bids welcome to LEGOLAND® guests and all others who would like to benefit from the excellent location close to a number of attractions and activities. You will enjoy the fine possibilities of golfing, fishing and walking tours in the neighbourhood.
    Read more : Refborg Hotel Billund
  • Hotel Hovborg Kro

    17.15 km

    Hovborg Kro is famous for its low-ceiled taprooms and for its splendid Jutland food. The inn has been here for at least 250 years and the thatched main building erected in 1790 is reverently preserved. Without ruining the atmosphere the owners have succeeded in “building in” modern facilities valued by today’s guests.
    Read more : Hotel Hovborg Kro
  • Hotel Hedemarken

    17.65 km

    You can hardly get any closer to the heart of Jutland: Hotel Hedemarken is situated near good golf courses, LEGOLAND®, and Givskud Zoo, has a beautiful brook in the backyard with salmon, and modern facilities. Quality is the pride of the place.

    Read more : Hotel Hedemarken
  • ToRVehallerne- SDH Partner Hotel

    21.92 km

    The hotel offers delicious food and high service to you as a guest. Located in the spirit of the city, you can experience all the cities facilities and easily get around without a car.
    Read more : ToRVehallerne- SDH Partner Hotel
  • Hotel Hedegaarden

    24.65 km

    Hotel Hedegaarden is a family-run hotel which offers everything from the traditional Danish cuisine to new and different taste experiences. They emphasize good food made of first-rate ingredients, an unpretentious atmosphere and that everything functions as is should. The hotel is situated right at motorway exit no. 60
    Read more : Hotel Hedegaarden
  • Sdr.Omme Kro

    26.85 km

    Sdr. Omme Kro is a historical roadside inn in the heart of Jutland. Here you will find cosy hospitality and a genuine inn atmosphere. Situated in beautiful surroundings with the Omme Stream crossing the lovely inn grounds. An ideal basis for excursions to LEGOLAND, Givskud Zoo and many golf courses.

    Read more : Sdr.Omme Kro
  • Hotel Fredericia - SDH Partner Hotel

    34.89 km

    Experience culinary magic at the restaurant Ryes, and combine your stay with the beautiful nature together with a lot of cultural experiences and activities when you stay at Hotel Fredericia.
    Read more : Hotel Fredericia - SDH Partner Hotel
  • Hotel Vejlefjord

    35.76 km

    Due to the beautiful location near the fjord and in the beech forest, Hotel Vejlefjord is often referred to as “The castle in the forest ". The hotel spa and wellness facilities and the thermal baths are unique and compares favorably with the best in Northern Europe. Enjoy the 20 km forest tracks.

    Read more : Hotel Vejlefjord
  • Tyrstrup Kro

    38.05 km

    Tyrstrup Kro is idyllically situated in the middle of fields and woods a few kilometres from the gingerbread town Christiansfeld. It has been here for at least 350 years, but in recent years the old inn has undergone largescale restorations and has become an internationally known restaurant.
    Read more : Tyrstrup Kro