South Jutland - From Germany to Denmark

South Jutland is the southern part of the Cimbrian Peninsula. It borders on the Wadden Sea in the west as well as on the Baltic Sea and the Little Belt in the east. In the south, the Flensborg Fjord constitutes the natural border with Germany. The region's biggest city is Esbjerg. With a population of 71,618 inhabitants, it is the country's seventh biggest city. Other parts of the region's geography are the North Sea islands of Fanø, Mandø and Rømø as well as the Baltic Sea island of Alsen. The climate in South Jutland is temperate and creates warm, dry summers and cool winters.

Green fields and valleys, thick forests, deep fjords, endless marshland and long sandy beaches characterise South Jutland's nature. In the west, high dykes, flat swampland and the Wadden Sea National Park are waiting to be discovered. The latter is a real bird paradise and offers the unique natural phenomenon of the "Black Sun" (giant flocks of birds) in spring and autumn. In addition, the great heaths on the surrounding dykes protect cattle and sheep from the tide. The east, on the other hand, impresses with quiet and child-friendly sandy beaches, smooth hills and valleys and deep fjords.

South Jutland is not only a bridge between Germany and Denmark with regard to its landscape but also regarding culture. Since the region was part of the Duchy of Schleswig, you find many northern German traditions, customs and architectural styles here. Travellers can learn about the region's eventful past in the Historiecenter (History Centre) Dybbøl Banke, the Viking Museum and the Vikinge Center (Viking centre) in Ribe, Denmark's oldest town. Its town centre is full of wonderful half-timbered houses and romantic alleys, which make Ribe one of the country's most beautiful towns. The trading town of Tønder, the royal town of Kolding with the 700 year old Koldinghus Castle, the sculpture "Men at Sea" and the Fisheries and Maritime Museum in Esbjerg as well as the popular ring riding festivals in summer are worth seeing as well. The latter consist of tournaments, small stalls and historical parades and is an important part of South Jutland's traditions.

South Jutland is a varied holiday destination for the whole family. Numerous towns with museums, art galleries, small boutiques and shops await you here. Furthermore, you can get something to take home in countless souvenir and art handicraft shops. Young holidaymakers will love Givskud Zoo and Legoland in Billund, while gourmets will enjoy the delicious food. One speciality from the region is the heather fed lamb, which is a delicacy thanks to the salty sea air. South Jutland's sweet desserts are popular too. You can taste up to 20 different pies and cakes (e.g. honey cake from Christiansfeld) as well as doughnuts in the afternoon.

Golfing, fishing, swimming, surfing or boating - South Jutland offers a wide range of leisure activities. The hinterland is particularly suited for long cycling and hiking tours (e.g. Hærvejen, Gendarmstien) and the Danish South Sea is perfect for a sailing trip. Many active holidaymakers enjoy land sailing or relaxed walks across the mudflats.

South Jutland is a popular holiday destination, especially in summer. Travellers can arrive by bus, train or car. If you want to take the plane, you can use the international airport in Esbjerg.