Lake Esrum

Lake Esrum

Søvejen 9

3230 Græsted

Photo: Daniel Overbeck

Lake Esrum

Photo: Daniel Overbeck

Lake Esrum

Photo: Daniel Overbeck

Lake Esrum

Things to Do at Esrum Lake

Do you want to breathe fresh air? Are you in the mood for some physical activity? Or do you need tranquility and meditation in nature? Lake Esrum is large enough to offer it all – it is Denmark's second-largest lake.

Lake Esrum is situated with the town of Fredensborg and Fredensborg Palace on one side and Gribskov on the other. Esrum Monastery is in the north, and Nødebo is in the south.

Can you swim in Esrum Lake?

Yes! You are welcome to swim in lake Esrum – both in summer and winter. However, it's a good idea to be aware of algae before you take the plunge.

Check the water quality of Lake Esrum.

Fishing in Lake Esrum

Angling at Lake Esrum is allowed. However, be aware that it requires a fishing permit before you stand with the fishing rod and cast the line. You can catch a wide variety of fish in the lake: lake trout, bream, pike, roach, perch, tench, eel, whitefish, and bleak – if you are lucky.

In 1996, the Danish record for lake trout was set in Lake Esrum with a fish weighing 8.25 kg!

See fishing regulations for Lake Esrum at the Danish Nature Agency.

Birds in Lake Esrum

There is a rich birdlife in Esrum Lake that you can observe. You can do this, for example, from two bird observation towers in the southern part of the lake. The Smew was previously rare but has now almost become a symbol of Esrum Lake. You can also see many swans on the lake.

Note that parts of the lake are protected. The protected area is marked with yellow buoys.

Kayak, Canoe, Boat, and SUP

You can bring your own kayak, canoe, boat, or SUP board to Lake Esrum. It can make you break a sweat and cause sore muscles. Or it can be a meditative experience if you just glide peacefully through the water.

If you don't have your own vessel, you can, for example, rent one from "Sne og Vand".

Originating from a large Ice Age block

Lake Esrum has been in North Zealand for thousands of years. It is believed to be a giant ice block from the Ice Age that melted and formed the lake.

The lake is approximately 9 km long and has a surface area of 17.3 km². The deepest point measures 22.3 m, and the average depth is 13.5 m. This gives a water volume of 233 million m³ – the largest in Denmark.

Part of the National Park Kings North Zealand

Esrum Lake is part of the National Park Kings North Zealand

Esrum Lake is part of the National Park Kings North Zealand

due to its rich wildlife and varied nature.

Map of the National Park Kings North Zealand.

Things to see nearby

Esrum Monastery – See how the monks lived in the Middle Ages and visit the lively medieval market.

Fredensborg Palace – Visit one of the queen's favorite palaces and explore the enormous park around it.

Parforce Hunting Landscape, UNESCO – Experience the enormous, human-created landscape with symmetrical paths and roads in Gribskov.

Outdoor accommodation

By the lake, on the side where Gribskov is also found, there are two primitive accommodation sites and several barbecue areas. Read more about camping and barbecue sites.

Hotels nearby of Lake Esrum

  • Hotel Hillerød - SDH Partner Hotel

    8.35 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

    15.48 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
  • Marienlyst Strandhotel

    16.88 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
  • Skjalm Hvide Hotel

    21.1 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
  • Skovshoved Hotel

    29.82 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
  • Taastrup Park Hotel

    37.47 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
  • Hotel Astoria - SDH Partner Hotel

    37.54 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
  • Hotel Hebron - SDH Partner Hotel

    37.56 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
  • Absalon Hotel

    37.74 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