Way of the Mountains

Stage 1: Grenaa to Balle - 20 km

Description

This hike offers a beautiful blend of Danish culture and coast.

The journey starts at the historic Grenaa Kirke and requires an initial 3-4 km walk to the coast. Once there, you'll join one of Denmark's best seaside paths. You'll walk approximately 10–12 km south along the sea, traversing the fine, white sands of Grenaa Strand, weaving through the coastal sections of the Grenaa Plantage forest, and crossing the picturesque dunes. The route provides continuous, sweeping views of the Kattegat Sea. The hike concludes at the quiet and tranquil Balle Strand, a serene finish before reaching the nearby village of Balle. For a varied walk, follow the shoreline or use the marked trails of the Molsruten route.

Helligdom

Coming soon

Maps

Click here for free maps to be used on your mobile phone and GPX files download

Practicalities:

You can easily reach Grenaa by taking the Letbanen light rail from downtown Aarhus, or by bus from several other locations in the region.
Grocery: We recommend stocking up on supplies at one of the supermarkets in Grenaa, as the upcoming stage leads away from residential areas. The next opportunity to shop will be in Balle, at the end of the stage—please check opening hours in advance.
Restaurants: dinner at Hød Kro available with advance booking (2 days prior).
Alternative overnight options: you can pitch a tent or use the local shelter (first come first served) - Lykkesholmvej 1, Balle - details available via the “Shelter” app

Spiritual input

"Above all, do not lose your desire to walk. Everyday, I walk myself into a state of well-being & walk away from every illness. I have walked myself into my best thoughts, and I know of no thought so burdensome that one cannot walk away from it. But by sitting still, & the more one sits still, the closer one comes to feeling ill. Thus if one just keeps on walking, everything will be all right"

Søren Kierkegaard, Danish philosopher

What does walking mean to me personally? What burdensome thoughts could I “walk away from”?

A special place

Nestled in the charming harbor district of Grenaa, Simon Peters Kirke is a small church with a rich history. Originally built in 1912 as a school for harbor children, the building was lovingly transformed into a church in 1957. It offers a peaceful and intimate setting for reflection and worship.

Inside, you’ll find meaningful details that reflect the church’s maritime heritage as a chandelier made from a ship’s wheel salvaged from the Faroese trawler BAKUR, a golden altar cross and seven-branched candlestick, both donated by local supporters.

A special song

Old Pine - Ben Howard

Way of the Mountains

Stage 2: Balle to Ebeltoft - 23 km

Description

This stage provides an idyllic transition from the inland landscapes to the maritime elegance of Ebeltoft. The path traverses cultivated plantations and guides you past Stubbe Sø, the region's largest lake, offering opportunities for birdlife observation.

The latter part of the route respectfully follows the course of a disused railway line before reaching the coast. The culmination of the journey is the arrival in the historic market town of Ebeltoft, renowned for its preservation of a distinctive urban environment, characterized by cobbled streets, classic half-timbered architecture, and the presence of the Frigate Jylland

The Camino mostly follows "Molsruten route" for the first 17km and then the "Mols Bjerge stien" until Ebeltoft.

Helligdom

Coming soon

Maps

Click here for free maps to be used on your mobile phone and GPX files download

Practicalities:

Grocery: We recommend stocking up on supplies at the supermarket in Balle - please check opening hours in advance. Otherwise at the end of the stage, in Ebeltoft, there are several shops and supermarkets
Restaurants: many options are available in Ebeltoft, including Ølbaren (Nørrebakke 8) a typical gastropub where it is possible to taste several danish and foreign beers in a cozy environment
Alternative overnight options: Accommodation is widely available along the route. For budget options, several shelters are available (check the "Shelter" app for details) and two organized campsites in Ebeltoft offering tent pitches and small, affordable cabins. Alternatively, you can find various comfortable Bed & Breakfasts in the Ebeltoft downtown.

Spiritual input

“In order to arrive at having pleasure in everything, desire pleasure in nothing. In order to arrive at possessing everything, desire to possess nothing. In order to arrive at being everything, desire to be nothing. In order to arrive at the knowledge of everything, desire to know nothing. In order to come to the ease you have not, you must go by the way you have not.”

The Ascent of Mount Carmel (St. John of the Cross)

This passage describes the mental state required to leave behind worldly desire and ascend the spiritual peak. What is one area of desire or attachment (material, emotional, or intellectual) that currently prevents me from achieving the freedom and clarity of "possessing nothing"?

A special place

Fregatten Jylland is the world's last remaining screw-propelled steam frigate and one of the largest wooden warships still in existence. Permanently berthed in Ebeltoft, it is a powerful, floating symbol of Denmark's 19th-century maritime history.

Launched in 1860, this historic hybrid combined traditional sail power with a pioneering steam engine, famously serving in the Battle of Heligoland (1864). Today, it operates as a vibrant, interactive museum. Explore its many decks, witness its immense scale, and gain a profound insight into life and technology during a pivotal era. A majestic and unforgettable piece of living history.

A special song

The sound of silence - Simon & Garfunkel

Way of the Mountains

Stage 3: Ebeltoft to Agri - 24 km

Description

This wonderful stage of the Mols Bjerge Stien smoothly transitions you from Ebeltoft's charming coast into the spectacular, open heart of the National Park. It includes the path to the highest points in the region, offering a deeply memorable experience.

The walk involves a gradual, rewarding climb through a pristine, rolling landscape shaped by the Ice Age, featuring beautiful hollows and open heaths. The ascent culminates at Agri Bavnehøj, the highest point on Djursland. From this prominent spot, you are treated to an unrivaled 360-degree panoramic vista sweeping across the entire National Park, the bays of Ebeltoft and Kalø, and the distant sea.

Helligdom

Herberg på Toppen (Anne Kristine ): pilgrim hostel with 14 beds in shared dormitory, 175dkk per person, linen and towels included - possibility to use common kitchen - pilgrim menu, coffee, beer and cakes available for sale.

Maps

Click here for free maps to be used on your mobile phone and GPX files download

Practicalities:

Grocery: no supermarkets are available directly on the route after leaving Ebeltoft. The closest one to Agri is in Vrinners, which is 2.6 km away.
Restaurants: Restaurant Skovmøllen in Femmøller is open Thursday to Sunday; pilgrim menu available at the Herberg på Toppen
Alternative overnight options: you can use designated shelters in several locations; find specific details via the "Shelter" app and at Karpenhøj. Rooms are available at Basballegaard (2 km before Agri) and at Hos Molsgaarden (5 km after Agri) and . Alternatively, at Bjørnen I Bjergene you can stay in unique Mongolian luxurious huts in the middle of nature (3 km after Agri)

Spiritual input

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber... The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”

Psalm 121 (The Bible)

This short Psalm offers immediate assurance and comfort against the backdrop of the hills. When I look up to the "mountains" (my greatest challenges or aspirations), where do I instinctively seek help first—and how might I more consistently turn that search toward a divine or foundational source? What does it mean for my daily "coming and going" to feel truly watched over or protected?

A special place

Tucked away in the scenic woods of the Mols Bjerge National Park lies the idyllic Ørnbjerg Water Mill. Dating back to the 16th century, this historic and preserved mill is one of the very few fully functional watermills remaining on Djursland.

Driven by the clear waters of Ulstrup Å (stream), the small, charming, half-timbered structure offers a peaceful glimpse into the region's agricultural past. It is an ideal spot to stop while hiking, offering a tranquil atmosphere alongside the stream, where history and beautiful nature converge.

A special song

Laudate Omnes Gente - Taize

Way of the Mountains

Stage 4: Agri to Esby- 20 km

Description

The walk from Agri to Esby is a scenic journey through the heart of Mols Bjerge National Park. Starting in Agri, you pass Trehøj, one of the area’s iconic burial mounds offering panoramic views of the rolling hills. Continuing toward Fuglsø, the path leads through open heathland and forest before reaching the cliffs of Fuglsø Strand, a peaceful beach on the Kattegat coast. From there, the route follows the historic Dragsmur, a narrow land bridge with stunning sea views on both sides. Heading inland, you pass Vængesø, a serene lake surrounded by lush nature, and finally arrive at Rangjung Yeshe Gomde, a Tibetan Buddhist retreat center nestled in the quiet landscape near Esby—a unique and tranquil ending to a beautiful hike.

Helligdom

Coming soon

Maps

Click here for free maps to be used on your mobile phone and GPX files download

Practicalities:

Grocery: supermarket in Kongsgårde (1,4 km away from the route) open everyday from 8am to 6pm.
Restaurants: no restaurants present along the route. Cafe Fuglsø open in the summer holidays and on special weekends.
Alternative overnight options: you can pitch a tent or use shelters in several locations close to Esby, details available via the “Shelter” app. Shelters are available in the middle of the stage at Karpenhøj. Rooms for rent in Esby at Strandgården.

Spiritual input

“The Buddha said to Subhuti: What do you think? Do not say that the Tathagata has this thought: ‘I must liberate all living beings.’ Subhuti, do not have that thought. Why? There are truly no living beings whom the Tathagata liberates. If there were living beings whom the Tathagata liberates, the Tathagata would hold the conception of a self, a person, a living being, and a life span.”

The Diamond Sutra (Buddhism/Zen)

This section reflects the mountain-like view of vastness, essential to the spiritual path. Am I currently holding onto a strong "conception of self" in my good deeds (e.g., I must achieve this, or I must liberate this person)? How can I perform the action without attachment to the egoic result?

A special place

Rangjung Yeshe Gomde Denmark is a prominent European center for studying and practicing Tibetan Buddhism. Established in 1995 by Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche, the center is nestled on the picturesque Helgenæs peninsula, occupying an abandoned farm at the foot of Tornbjerg ("Thorn Mountain"). Gomde Denmark welcomes everyone, regardless of background, to its yearly seminars and retreats. Its core mission is to preserve and share the Buddha's authentic teachings on love and inner freedom, helping practitioners integrate these principles into their daily lives.

A special song

Across the universe- The Beatles

Way of the Mountains

Stage 5: Esby to Tved - 22 km

Description

Starting in the quiet village of Esby, you head south toward Ellemandsbjerg, the highest point on Helgenæs, where sweeping views of Aarhus Bay and Kattegat await. From there, the trail leads to the rugged cliffs of Bursklint, then along the coast to Tyskertårnet, a stark WWII observation tower offering panoramic vistas. Continuing west, you reach Sletterhage Fyr, a picturesque lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula, perfect for watching ships pass through the busy shipping lane. Turning inland, you visit the Helgenæs Kirke, a medieval church steeped in history, before descending to the strand, where sandy beaches and the rhythmic sound of waves invite a peaceful pause. The walk ends at our Helligdom close to Strands beach. ,

Helligdom

Lotte - xxx

Maps

Click here for free maps to be used on your mobile phone and GPX files download

Practicalities:

Grocery: the only supermarket available in this stage is in Kongsgårde. Recommended to buy food also for the breakfast/lunch for the following day.
Restaurants: no restaurants present along the route.
Alternative overnight options: the closest shelter is in Skødshoved Strand, around 6 km into Stage 6 - details via the "Shelter" app. Rooms are available at Thorup Guesthouse, that can be used as accommodation also for the next stage - and you can find a pizzeria closeby as well.

Spiritual input

“Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them, saying: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”

The Sermon on the Mount (Gospel of Matthew)

The opening lines set the scene of the mountain as the place of profound revelation. Which of the Beatitudes feels most challenging or counter-intuitive for me to practice today, and what small step could I take toward it? Where do I need to ascend to a figurative "mountainside" in my life—a place of quiet solitude—to receive clarity on my core values?

A special place

On the tip of the Helgenæs peninsula, near Sletterhage Lighthouse, lie two key World War II sites: the German Tower (Tyskertårnet) and the Gun Emplacement (Kanonstilling). The German Tower functioned as a crucial radar station (Funkmessortungsstellung) for the German Kriegsmarine, enabling them to monitor shipping traffic into Aarhus Bay and the Kattegat. The nearby Gun Emplacement was part of a planned coastal battery intended to defend against an Allied invasion. Though construction of the foundations and bunkers for four 10.5 cm cannons was nearly complete, the guns were never fully installed before the German surrender. Today, the sites stand as historical monuments and popular scenic viewpoints.

A special song

Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is A Season) - The Byrds

Way of the Mountains

Stage 6: Skødshoved loop - 21 km

Description

Start in Eg, a quiet hamlet surrounded by fields, and head toward Isgård Gods, a historic manor with sweeping views over Aarhus Bay. From there, descend to Landborup Strand, an imprevssive beach with high cliffs, before following the coast to Skødshoved, known for its sandy shore and harbor. Continue inland through the village of Dejret and on to Tved Kirke, a small historic church, before coming back to the Helligdom at Strands beach to spend the night. Alternative you might continue to the next town, Knebel, where you can find accomodation in shelters or B&B.

Helligdom

Coming soon

Maps

Click here for free maps to be used on your mobile phone and GPX files download

Practicalities:

Grocery: supermarkets available in Tved and in Knebel.
Restaurants: Stenbækhus in the middle of the stage, Restaurant Mols Bjerg in Knebel
Alternative overnight options: 4 shelters available close to Knebel , details via the “Shelter” app. Rooms are available at Thorup Guesthouse and Mols Bed & Breakfast, in the following village (reservations on Booking.com)

Spiritual input

“The place where you are right now, God circled on a map for you. Wherever you are, you must open a window in your prison. Do not remain a mountain pass. Be a mountain. Be an oasis, not a mirage. The water is there."

Rumi's Poetry (Sufism)

This verse encapsulates the journey toward divine realization, often mirrored by the seeker's solitary walk. If my current location or circumstance was "circled on a map" by God, what specific lesson or realization am I meant to be learning right here, right now?

A special place

Isgård Gods is a historically significant manor house boasting a scenic location overlooking Aarhus Bay. The estate originally belonged to the Aarhus bishop before passing to the Crown in 1536 following the Reformation. For over 150 years, from 1624 to 1773, it was owned by the noble Gersdorff family, who maintained a burial chapel in the nearby Tved Church. The current, striking white-washed, three-winged main building was constructed in the 1890s by owner J.H. Krieger. Later, under the ownership of Tyge Alexander Bech (1911–1951), Isgård became a retreat frequently visited by King Christian X and Queen Alexandrine. Today, Isgård Gods operates as a modern agricultural and forestry estate.

A special song

Where The Streets Have No Name - U2

Way of the Mountains

Stage 7: Tved to Rønde - 27 km

Description

Walk to Knebel, at the edge of Mols Bjerge National Park, and head toward Poskær Stenhus, Denmark’s largest Neolithic dolmen, set among rolling hills. Continue through the quiet countryside to Rolsø Kapel, the ruins of a medieval chapel standing alone in the fields. From there, make your way to Andersen Winery, where you can pause for a tasting of locally produced fruit wines. The route then leads toward the coast and the dramatic remains of Kalø Slotruin, a 14th-century castle ruin on a small peninsula overlooking Kalø Vig. Finally, follow forest paths into Rønde, a lively town with views back toward the bay and the hills of Mols.

If this stage feels a bit too long, feel free to break it into two days by staying overnight in Agri. You can find the exact route on the map provided on our Maps page.

Helligdom

Coming soon

Maps

Click here for free maps to be used on your mobile phone and GPX files download

Practicalities:

Grocery: supermarkets in Vistof and Rønde.
Restaurants: many available options in Rønde.
Alternative overnight options: Several shelters available in Kalø and Rønde - details via the “Shelter” app. Otherwise budget rooms available at Danhostel. If you wish to shorten the next stage of 5 km, the Kaløvig camping offers both tent spaces and cabins.

Spiritual input

“That which cannot be expressed by speech, but by which the speech is expressed—that alone know as Brahman (the Absolute), and not what people here adore. That which cannot be thought by the mind, but by which the mind thinks—that alone know as Brahman... The Real is not what you see, but what helps you to see.”

The Upanishads (Hinduism)

This passage captures the spirit of withdrawing to seek the Absolute, a tradition often carried out in mountain retreats. What assumptions do I hold about reality that are based on my senses or the "speech" of the external world, and what practice could help me perceive the deeper, quieter truth?

A special place

Poskær Stenhus is the largest and most magnificent round barrow (dolmen) in Denmark, located near Knebel in Mols Bjerge National Park. This impressive megalithic tomb was constructed by the Funnelbeaker culture during the Neolithic period (c. 3300 BC). Its key features include a central burial chamber covered by a massive 11-tonne capstone and surrounded by a complete ring of 23 huge kerb stones. The site, which was successfully protected in 1860 after almost being destroyed, is notable because its capstone is believed to be one half of a larger granite slab, the other half of which caps the nearby Agri Dyssen dolmen.

A special song

Hallelujah - Leonard Cohen

Way of the Mountains

Stage 8: Rønde to Aarhus - 30 km

Description

Start in Rønde and head south toward the coast, reaching Følle Strand, a peaceful beach on Kalø Vig with wide views across the bay. From there, follow the shoreline west to Vosnæs Pynt, a scenic headland surrounded by water and forest. Continue along the coast toward Studstrupværket, the landmark power station visible from afar, then walk past its industrial edge into quieter paths leading to Egå Marina, a lively harbor with boats and cafés. The route then takes you along Bellevue Strand, a popular beach north of Aarhus, before entering Risskov Forest, a green oasis that guides you into the city. The walk ends at Vor Frue Kirke, one of Aarhus’s oldest churches.

Helligdom

Coming soon

Maps

Click here for free maps to be used on your mobile phone and GPX files download

Practicalities:

Grocery: supermarkets available in Knebel and in Aarhus
Restaurants: many options available in Aarhus. In the middle of the stage, the restaurant in Kalovig badehotel is open most days at lunch.
Alternative overnight options: several shelters available in Aarhus - details via the “Shelter” app. Otherwise budget rooms available at Danhostel. If you want to break the stage in 2 day, Kalovig badehotel could be an option.

Spiritual input

“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves... Going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity.”

John Muir's Writings

Muir beautifully equates the journey into the high country with entering a sacred space. If I view nature as a restorative force, what "cares" or anxieties am I ready to let "drop off like autumn leaves" by simply spending time outdoors?

A special place

Vor Frue Kirke in Aarhus is a historical church complex, originally the southern wing of a Dominican Priory established around 1240.

The most notable feature is the Crypt Church (Kryptkirken) located beneath the main sanctuary. Dating to approximately 1060 AD, it is the oldest extant stone church in Scandinavia and the oldest preserved building in Aarhus. It was the city's original cathedral, forgotten for centuries and rediscovered in 1955.

Inside the Crypt Church is a copy of the Åby Crucifix (c. 1100 AD), one of Denmark's oldest crosses. It uniquely depicts Christ as a powerful, crowned King—sometimes with a Viking-style moustache—to symbolize triumph over death for the newly Christianized Vikings.

A special song

Take Me Home, Country Roads - John Denver