Fjordstien - cycling and hiking route

See the water, breathe in the scent and feel the breeze

The Fjord Path leads through some of Denmark's most beautiful nature, often right next to the water. It runs from Hundested via Frederikssund and Jyllinge to Roskilde, continuing to Holbæk. Read the full article below about the experiences along the Fjord Path from Roskilde to Selsø.

In Hornsherred, between the Isefjord and Roskilde Fjord, you can experience the unique light from the two fjords and wide views over the bird-rich islands and islets, as well as Bognæs. To the west, the coastline consists of steep cliffs, while to the east it features flat coastal meadows. Numerous Stone Age burial mounds, especially near the Isefjord, reveal human settlement in the area since ancient times. From the large hill in Ryegaard Deer Park, you can enjoy the famous view over Bramsnæsvig and Dejligheden.

On foot or on wheels

The full length of the Fjord Path is 230 kilometres, comprising both old roads and newly established trails, all suitable for cyclists of all levels and for those walking the route. On some stretches, pedestrians and cyclists follow the same route, while on others they are separated. The marked trail follows small roads, gravel paths, summerhouse roads, and in some places, narrow paths where cyclists must walk their bikes.

The Fjord Path is a nature cycling trail, designed for peaceful and reflective experiences. In many places, you're so close to the coast that you can feel the cooling breeze from the fjord as you pedal along.

The full route or day trips

• Full route: 230 km
• From Frederikssund to Roskilde: 30 km
• From Roskilde to Selsø: 35 km
• From Roskilde to Holbæk: 47 km

Fjord Path: Fjordland's most scenic cycling and hiking route

Straight ahead of the handlebars, large and small sailing boats lie in rows, and the sound of lines clinking against masts sets a maritime tone. Water and fjord play a central role on this journey, which begins at Roskilde Harbour.

The route follows the Fjord Path, Route 40, which according to the travel portal Momondo runs through one of Zealand’s most scenic areas, circling the Isefjord, Lammefjord, Holbæk Fjord, and Roskilde Fjord. We set our bikes in motion, and soon the town and harbour are behind us.

Vikings on the horizon

The gravel path hugs the water’s edge, with the fresh scent of saltwater in the air. Don’t be surprised to glimpse the silhouette of a Viking ship – visitors to the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde can try their hand at rowing small replica Viking ships, guided by skilled museum sailors.

It's a well-known fact that genuine Viking ships once sailed these waters. In 1962, the remains of five Viking ships were excavated from the bottom of Roskilde Fjord. These can now be seen at the museum. As you cycle through the green surroundings, you may find yourself reflecting on what the area looked like during Viking times. The course is set – not for the Viking Age – but for a stretch of the Fjord Path perfect for a weekend trip. Along the coast, through farmland, forests, and meadows to Holbæk, via Orø and around Hornsherred.

After a while, the path enters Boserup Forest and continues through diverse hardwood species. Occasionally, you catch glimpses of water between the trunks.

The forest is especially popular with cyclists and hikers in spring when the forest floor is carpeted with flowers like corydalis and yellow, blue, and white anemones. In some spots, you'll find obstacle courses made from natural materials for practising balance and coordination. Elsewhere, there’s a firepit and a secluded beach in a small bay. On the other side of the forest, the route continues into rolling farmland.

If you’re ready for your first stop, the organic farm brewery Herslev Bryghus is a great place to pause – even if your legs aren't tired yet. The brewery is known for its specialty beers made in collaboration with local producers. They also serve local vegetables, fruit, and ham from free-range pigs with their lunch tapas – worth a stop in its own right.

A system of fjords

After the pitstop in Herslev, it’s time to stretch your legs again, heading around Lejre Bay and along the country roads toward the southern part of the Isefjord. The Fjord Path doesn’t just circle one fjord but an entire system of fjords winding around islands and land, creating a rich and varied landscape. Our journey now continues towards Hornsherred.

Gastronomy and outdoor life

Food lovers taking the Fjord Path might want to add a few extra kilometres to their ride, as many culinary delights are hidden throughout the area. And it’s not just the famous Lammefjord carrots or fresh apples from local orchards. Food lovers taking the Fjord Path might want to add a few extra kilometres to their ride, as many culinary delights are hidden throughout the area.

On two wheels to the Baroque

From the forest, the trip heads south through unique landscapes shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age and along the narrowest sections of Roskilde Fjord. It was here, off Tørslev, that Vikings sank five ships in the late 11th century to block access to Roskilde, then a powerful trading city. Our next stop dives into history once more – albeit a few centuries later.

We park the bikes at Selsø Castle, which is not technically a castle but a well-preserved manor house showcasing Fjordland's noble history. Here you can see original interiors from the 1730s to the 1800s, unique in Denmark. The main building from the 1500s stood uninhabited for much of the 19th and early 20th century, thus escaping modernisation. Today, you can admire well-preserved wallpaper, murals and mirrors from the Baroque era, as well as Empire-style rooms. The castle also has its share of legends – including sightings of 'the White Lady'. The nature around Selsø Castle is also worth lingering over. There’s a bird sanctuary by Lake Selsø, and the coastal light here is particularly special.

You can continue by bike for another hour and a half through idyllic villages like Sæby and open landscapes where you’ll feel delightfully immersed in nature. Or you can end your journey here after a beautiful day on the Fjord Path.