New Bike Route: The Viking Cycle Route on Fyn
Experience a taste of Fyn's fascinating Viking history from the saddle of your bike along one of the island's most scenic cycling routes
The Viking Cycle Route on Fyn is a 58 km circular tour that takes you through landscapes and cultural heritage rich with stories from a bygone era. The route is flexible and can be divided into smaller stages - perfect for families, history enthusiasts, and cycling adventures alike.
You can choose to:
- Ride the full 58 km route stretching between Odense and Kerteminde.
- Take a shorter, traffic-safe family route of 13 km from Nonnebakken in Odense, along the Odense River and the Kerteminde Path.
- Enjoy a scenic 28 km loop around Kerteminde Nor - with views of the water and Viking history.
Viking History Along the Way
Nonnebakken (Odense)
Begin your journey at the remains of the Viking fortress Nonnebakken – one of Harald Bluetooth's impressive ring fortresses from the 10th century. Here, you can imagine storm surges, warriors, and merchants in the bustling city of Odense, which was an important hub in the kingdom at the time.
TID – Museum for Odense
Today, much of Nonnebakken lies hidden beneath the center of Odense, but the city's streets still bear clear traces of Viking life and movement. At TID, you can explore the most significant finds from the fortress and learn more about Odense's Viking ring fortress and the people it mattered to.
Kerteminde Path and the Odense River
As you follow the route, you'll travel one way along the Kerteminde Path and the other along the Odense River - a peaceful stretch where nature and history truly blend together. It's an experience in the spirit of the Vikings. Odense itself grew on the opposite side of the river and became one of Denmark's earliest cities during the Viking Age, later rising to prominence as a powerful bishop's seat. It was here that Denmark's last Viking king, Saint Canute (Knud the Holy), was killed and laid to rest.
Munkebo Hill
Climb Munkebo Hill and enjoy sweeping views of the fjord landscape – a spot where Viking chieftains surely once stood, watching for enemies or incoming trade ships.
Viking Museum Ladby
A true highlight of the tour is the Ladby Ship – Denmark's only Viking ship burial. Around the year 925, a powerful chieftain was laid to rest here with his ship. Today, you can step inside the authentic burial mound and feel the presence of history. The museum offers reconstructions, archaeological finds, and engaging activites for the whole family.
Ready to ride? TheViking Cycle Route combines nature and living cultural heritage – offering a unique way to experience Fyn. Pack your lunch, put on your helmet, and travel back to the Viking Age!
Signage coming in 2027
The Viking Cycle Route is part of the recommended cycling routes included in the upcoming recreational cycling network, which will be signposted during 2027. The network's routes are already available digitally on the map and are connected by numbered waypoints (signs), making it easier for you to find the best cycling stretches during your ride.
You can read more about how to plan your own cycling trip or use the network already now here.
The project is supported by:
